Tour NZ Special Interest Tours Family Time
Family Time |
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Tailor made to keep all members of the family happy our Family Time Itinerary covers both North and South Islands with a fantastic selection of activities and sightseeing from cruising the Auckland Harbour and viewing under the water at Kelly Tarltons to visiting the National Museum in Wellington and travelling by jetboat and Funyak Kayak on the Dart River. Your experience includes many more activities and hotel/apartment style accommodation along with a Budget Rental car.
Day 1: Arrive AucklandOn arrival to Auckland Airport collect your Budget rental car and make your way to your accommodation. Included within your documents is a $100.00 food voucher for you to purchase supplies for the family at the local supermarket. Once everyone is settled in at the apartment visit Kelly Tarlton's Underwater World & Antarctic Encounter. Kelly Tarlton's is a wonderland of snow, ice and amazing underwater sights. Explore the wilds of Antarctica and the natural treasures of the ocean depths in our Underwater World - and beyond. Accommodation: The Quadrant, Two Bedroom Apartment, 2 Nights 2 Queen Bedrooms, designer lounge, private balcony & fully equipped kitchen
Day 2: AucklandKnown commonly as ‘The City of Sails’, no visit to Auckland is complete without an excursion on the harbour. Today join Fullers Auckland and visit Rangitoto Island. You board the ferry from the downtown Auckland ferry terminal and enjoy a 25 minute cruise across the Waitemata Harbour to Rangitoto Island. On arrival your island ranger guide will greet you as you leave the ferry, and direct you to the tour vehicle nearby. Once on board, you will journey through rugged lava crops and native bush, whilst our guide talks to you about the history and geology of the island. The tour can only reach the base of the summit where it's a 10-15 minute walk to the summit along a wooden boardwalk with steps to the very top. After taking in the panoramic views, you rejoin the tour vehicle for the return trip to the wharf, which takes in the western side of the island. On return to the city the remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore the city centre. Included are tickets to the Sky Tower which at 328 metres high offers a clear view towards the Pacific Ocean as well as of the city of Auckland. Accommodation: The Quadrant, Two Bedroom Apartment
Day 3: Auckland/Waitomo/Rotorua (Approx. 367km)Depart Auckland city and begin your journey through the rural townships of the Waikato to Waitomo, where you will join a boat tour through the Glow worm caves. Stop at the sensational Waitomo Caves, the glow worm adorned environment will provide some very intriguing sightseeing. Over your 45 minute guided tour, you'll take in the spectacular Glowworm Cave with its majestic and ornate cave decorations, the deep limestone shaft known as the Tomo and the equally magnificent Cathedral. Your tour guide will deliver an informative and entertaining commentary, sharing stories, cultural legends and the natural wonders of this living masterpiece. Your visit concludes with a brief, yet remarkably moving, boat trip through the Glowworm Grotto. Following your tour continue to the Thermal Wonderland of Rotorua. Accommodation: Marama Apartments, Canal House 2 Bedroom Apartment, 2 Nights 1 Queen & 2 Single beds with fully equipped kitchen – located approximately 15 minutes drive from Rotorua township
Day 4: RotoruaToday spend time exploring Rotorua with the family. Admission included today are: Rotorua Duck Tours Discover Rotorua on a unique 90 minute sightseeing adventure onboard our WWII amphibious vehicle able to travel on land and water! Tours depart 6 times per day from the Rotorua I-site Fenton St. Join us on this fascinating journey of discovery that begins in town where Rotorua’s rich history unfolds before you as we tour local landmarks and share stories and legends of the past. Highlights include Lake Rotorua, Mokoia Island, Geothermal Sulphur Point, Government Gardens, The Museum, Blue Baths and much more… The adventure continues as we venture out to the spectacular lake’s area for “SPLASHDOWN” (entry) into Lakes Tikitapu (Blue Lake) and Okareka. Visit a small lakeside community where the Duck’s elevation affords magnificent views of Mt Tarawera. With Rotorua Duck Tours you experience the once-in-a-lifetime thrill of riding in an authentic WWII amphibious “duck” as well as getting a great introduction to Rotorua and its attractions. “It’s fun for the whole family, it's educational, and it's an adventure that all ages can enjoy. Agrodome, where you will join their farm show which gives you an entertaining insight to New Zealand’s agriculture. Skyline Rides is located at Mt Ngongataha, where you will have a bird's eye view of Lake Rotorua and Mokoia Island. Hang on tight during your exciting luge ride to the bottom of the mountain! Polynesian Spa This afternoon you have the perfect opportunity to relax in hot mineral water at the Polynesian Spa, Enjoy tranquil bathing and lake views in rock pools, each with different temperatures (36˚C to 42˚C). Here you are surrounded by revitalizing native New Zealand flora, natural rocks, and the energizing sight and sound of two waterfalls and a grotto that reflects the glistening water. Or something more energetic try the family pool - a large freshwater chlorinated pool (33˚C) and has a small hydro slide for a splashing good time! Accommodation: Marama Apartments, Canal House 2 Bedroom Apartment
Day 5: Rotorua/Tongariro (Approx. 177km)Today depart Rotorua and travel south to the Tongariro National Park. On the way enjoy a morning tea stop at the lakeside town of Taupo. Take some bread along to feed the ducks. Continue on to Tongariro. On arrival and once the family has checked in to your accommodation you may wish to take a short walk on one of the tracks within the National Park. Accommodation: Bayview Chateau Tongariro, Standard Room (Tongariro or Ruapehu Wing), 1 Night Maximum pax 4 per room (no kitchen facilities but tea/coffee facilities)
Day 6: Tongariro/Wellington (Approx. 336km)Today travel South to New Zealand’s Capital City, Wellington. You may wish to stop at the Gumboot capital of New Zealand, Taihape for a spot of lunch. WELLINGTON - the Capital city of New Zealand since 1865, is situated around Wellington harbour, its houses clinging precipitously to the steep hillsides. Wellington is renowned for its wind which is channelled through the Cook Strait, and causes the wind to blow most days. A clever blend of buildings, old and new, beautiful vistas of the city and harbour, and a cosmopolitan mix of culture and arts give Wellington its heart, and vibrant atmosphere. Accommodation: Museum Hotel, Two Bedroom Suite, 2 Nights Maximum pax 4 per room. Includes kitchen
Day 7: WellingtonToday spend the day exploring Wellington city. A must, and conveniently located across the road from your hotel is Te Papa Museum. Hours of fun for all the family contained in one building and entry is FREE! Te Papa is New Zealand's national museum, offering visitors a unique and authentic experience of this country's treasures and stories. Over five floors, you can explore the nation's nature, art, history, and heritage - from the shaping of its land to the spirit of its diverse peoples, from its unique wildlife to its distinctive art and visual culture. Also included today is a ride on the Cable car to the summit of Mt Victoria where you can enjoy panoramic views over the city and harbour. Accommodation: Museum Hotel, Two Bedroom Suite
Day 8: Wellington/QueenstownToday return your rental car to Wellington airport before checking in for your flight to Queenstown. (flight not included in quotation). On arrival to Queenstown collect your new vehicle and make your way to your accommodation. Dependant on your arrival time you may wish to take short trip to the historical settlement of Arrowtown…even pan for gold in the former richest river in the world. Accommodation: Peppers Beacon, 2 Bedroom Garden Suite, 3 Nights 1 Queen & 2 Single beds, maximum pax 4. Fully equipped kitchen
Day 9: QueenstownThis morning you will be collected from the hotel by Dart River Jetboat Safari for a ‘Funyak experience’. The Funyak Safari is truly unique - it's the only experience of its type in the Queenstown region and is the most fun way to explore and experience every aspect of this amazing area. First of all you’ll travel an exciting 1 1⁄4 hours up the Dart River by Jet Boat with all the thrills of braided shallow river Jet Boating and world famous jet spins; then, you’ll disembark to begin your Funyak rafting journey in one of our unique inflatable ‘Funyak’ canoes. After full instructions, you’ll be free to canoe and drift (under the watchful eye of your professional guide) for a spectacular 2 hours downstream, taking in all the awe-inspiring sights found amidst the Dart River’s shimmering channels. You’ll stop amongst the ancient beech forest to enjoy a wilderness buffet lunch and explore the hidden side streams, rock pools and dramatic chasms such as the beautiful Rockburn, before canoeing downstream to Paradise, where you’ll be taken by 4WD coach to Glenorchy, stopping to view the stunning scenery that has inspired films the world over. Accommodation: Peppers Beacon, 2 Bedroom Garden Suite
Day 10: QueenstownToday is at your leisure in Queenstown. Enjoy time exploring the township, visit the Botanical Gardens or take a stroll along the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Included today is an excursion aboard the TSS Earnslaw with Real Journeys. Relive the elegance of turn-of-the-century travel with a cruise aboard the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw, the only coal fired passenger carrying vessel still operating in the southern hemisphere. Affectionately known as the “Lady of the Lake”, the TSS Earnslaw has a special place in the hearts of Queenstown people. She has been transporting goods to remote settlements and conveying passengers on beautiful Lake Wakatipu since 1912. What better way to view the magnificent scenery than by taking a cruise a board the TSS Earnslaw. Experience rural New Zealand as we take you on a walking tour of the farmyard. You can help feed the sheep and get close to the red deer and Scottish Highland cattle. Watch the sheep dogs in action rounding up a mob of ewes, watch a sheep being shorn and maybe try your hand at spinning wool. Then stroll through the lakeside gardens to the charming Colonel’s Homestead for a traditional high country morning or afternoon tea. Accommodation: Peppers Beacon, 2 Bedroom Garden Suite
Day 11: Queenstown/Mount Cook (Approx 331km)This morning enjoy the day travelling from Queenstown to Mount Cook. Just as you leave Queenstown pass through the small settlement of Cromwell, famous for its delicious fruit. Stop at one of the many stalls on the side of the road to pick up some treats for the road trip. While in Mount Cook visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre. A tribute to Sir Edmund Hillary, humanitarian, ambassador and one of the world’s greatest explorers, the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre showcases the Aoraki Mount Cook region, its people and its place in the universe. Designed to educate and entertain, the centre features a spectacular state-of-the-art 3D movie, New Zealand’s first full dome digital Planetarium and Museum which documents the pioneering heart of the region and features the impressive Hillary Gallery. Accommodation: The Hermitage, Motel Family Unit, 1 Night Queen bed in lounge and 2 singles in bedroom. Full Kitchen facilities
Day 12: Mount Cook/ChristchurchBreakfast is included this morning at the Hermitage. Depart the mountainous region of Mount Cook and travel through the rich pastoral farmland of the Canterbury Plains to reach Christchurch – New Zealand’s “Garden City”. Accommodation: Scenic Circle Fino Casementi All-Suite Hotel, Two Bedroom Suite, 1 Night Fully equipped kitchen
Day 13: ChristchurchToday is your final day in New Zealand. Dependant on your flight time you may wish to explore the city centre including Hagley Park, Cathedral Square of even take a punt along the River Avon. Conveniently located across the road from the Airport is The Antarctic Attraction. Before checking in for your flight visit the centre. The Christchurch Antarctic Centre and Penguin Encounter - Fun interactive and hands on experience! Slide down a snow slope in the world's first indoor Snow & Ice Experience, throw a snowball, or try on your own Antarctic clothing at the Camp Site area. The audio visual and interactive presentations are fantastic and the children will enjoy meeting "Pom Pom" the penguin and "Slip" the seal! Take an outdoor ride on the Hagglund, our all terrain amphibian vehicle, these vehicles will take you over an exciting outdoor adventure course - even swimming in water! Return your rental car to Christchurch Airport for your departure flight (flight not included)
Rates are Nett per person (includes 15%)
Travel is to be completed within the season. Any travel that falls over both seasons will be priced on application. All packages travelling in September and October during the Rugby World Cup will be quoted on application.
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