Itinerary
Auckland, New Zealand
Auckland is called the City of Sails, and visitors flying in will see why. On the East Coast is the Waitemata Harbour—a Māori word meaning sparkling waters—which is bordered by the Hauraki Gulf, an aquatic playground peppered with small islands where many Aucklanders can be found “mucking around in boats.”Not surprisingly, Auckland has some 70,000 boats. About one in four households in Auckland has a seacraft of some kind, and there are 102 beaches within an hour’s drive; during the week many are quite empty. Even the airport is by the water; it borders the Manukau Harbour, which also takes its name from the Māori language and means solitary bird.According to Māori tradition, the Auckland isthmus was originally peopled by a race of giants and fairy folk. When Europeans arrived in the early 19th century, however, the Ngāti-Whātua tribe was firmly in control of the region. The British began negotiations with the Ngāti-Whātua in 1840 to purchase the isthmus and establish the colony’s first capital. In September of that year the British flag was hoisted to mark the township’s foundation, and Auckland remained the capital until 1865, when the seat of government was moved to Wellington. Aucklanders expected to suffer from the shift; it hurt their pride but not their pockets. As the terminal for the South Sea shipping routes, Auckland was already an established commercial center. Since then the urban sprawl has made this city of approximately 1.3 million people one of the world’s largest geographically.A couple of days in the city will reveal just how developed and sophisticated Auckland is—the Mercer City Survey 2012 saw it ranked as the third-highest city for quality of life—though those seeking a New York in the South Pacific will be disappointed. Auckland is more get-up and go-outside than get-dressed-up and go-out. That said, most shops are open daily, central bars and a few nightclubs buzz well into the wee hours, especially Thursday through Saturday, and a mix of Māori, Pacific people, Asians, and Europeans contributes to the cultural milieu. Auckland has the world’s largest single population of Pacific Islanders living outside their home countries, though many of them live outside the central parts of the city and in Manukau to the south. The Samoan language is the second most spoken in New Zealand. Most Pacific people came to New Zealand seeking a better life. When the plentiful, low-skilled work that attracted them dried up, the dream soured, and the population has suffered with poor health and education. Luckily, policies are now addressing that, and change is slowly coming. The Pacifica Festival in March is the region’s biggest cultural event, attracting thousands to Western Springs. The annual Pacific Island Secondary Schools’ Competition, also in March, sees young Pacific Islander and Asian students compete in traditional dance, drumming, and singing. This event is open to the public.At the geographical center of Auckland city is the 1,082-foot Sky Tower, a convenient landmark for those exploring on foot and some say a visible sign of the city’s naked aspiration. It has earned nicknames like the Needle and the Big Penis—a counterpoint to a poem by acclaimed New Zealand poet James K. Baxter, which refers to Rangitoto Island as a clitoris in the harbor.The Waitemata Harbour has become better known since New Zealand staged its first defense of the America’s Cup in 2000 and the successful Louis Vuitton Pacific Series in early 2009. The first regatta saw major redevelopment of the waterfront. The area, where many of the city’s most popular bars, cafés, and restaurants are located, is now known as Viaduct Basin or, more commonly, the Viaduct. A recent expansion has created another area, Wynyard Quarter, which is slowly adding restaurants.These days, Auckland is still considered too bold and brash for its own good by many Kiwis who live “south of the Bombay Hills,” the geographical divide between Auckland and the rest of New Zealand (barring Northland). “Jafa,” an acronym for “just another f—ing Aucklander,” has entered the local lexicon; there’s even a book out called Way of the Jafa: A Guide to Surviving Auckland and Aucklanders. A common complaint is that Auckland absorbs the wealth from the hard work of the rest of the country. Most Aucklanders, on the other hand, still try to shrug and see it as the parochial envy of those who live in small towns. But these internal identity squabbles aren’t your problem. You can enjoy a well-made coffee in almost any café, or take a walk on a beach—knowing that within 30 minutes’ driving time you could be cruising the spectacular harbor, playing a round at a public golf course, or even walking in subtropical forest while listening to the song of a native tûî bird.
Rotorua, New Zealand
Take a trip to Middle earth with a visit to the Hobbiton™ Movie Set. Built for the filming of director Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy, a Hobbiton™ tour takes you behind the scenes of the phenomenally successful movies and into a world of magic and adventure. Set in the heart of the picturesque Waikato region, Hobbiton™ is a must for fans of the Tolkien universe.
Then head to Rotorua, home of Maori culture and bubbling hot springs. Be immersed in both as you explore this geothermic hotspot, located within the Pacific Rim of Fire. Unique cultural experiences, such as hangi feasts cooked underground or village tours, provide deep insights into Maori history and lifestyle. The thermal pools themselves are an integral part of Maori healing.
Later, visit the National Kiwi Hatchery, the largest in the world, and discover how these unique birds are reared. The National Kiwi Hatchery hatches close to 120 chicks every year as part of a breeding program designed to protect this national icon.
Tonight, enjoy your two-night stay in Rotorua.
Rotorua, New Zealand
This morning, take a nature discovery treewalk along Rotorua’s mighty redwoods. Visit Te Puia Rotorua Geothermal Park, where you’ll witness bubbling mud ponds and powerful geysers of steam erupting from deep below.
During your time in Rotorua, enjoy your choice from the following Scenic Freechoice activities.
Scenic Freechoice:
City and Lakes Tour: Unlike any other tour in Rotorua, this is the best way to see the city and experience the beauty of the surrounding lake district all at once. Take a thrilling ride aboard an authentic WWII amphibious landing craft on this sightseeing adventure, enjoying the sights of Rotorua by land and water.
Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa. Situated on the foreshore of Lake Rotorua, unwind in a therapeutic and rejuvenating experience, drawing on the centuries old legacy of Ngati Whakaue practices and culture.
Gondola Ride & Volcanic Hills Winery: Sample carefully crafted Volcanic Hills wines from New Zealand’s most recognised and respected wine region, all while enjoying panoramic views over Lake Rotorua.
Scenic Enrich
Tonight, immerse yourself in Maori traditions at an authentic hangi dinner. This traditional method of cooking involves heated rocks in an umu, a pit oven buried underground. Meat and vegetables cooked in this style are made tender and filled with a smoky flavour.
You may choose to take a floatplane flight over the volcanic Mt Tarawera (additional expense, please book prior to departure).
Napier, New Zealand
The earthquake that struck Napier at 10:46 am on February 3, 1931, was—at 7.8 on the Richter scale—the largest quake ever recorded in New Zealand. The coastline was wrenched upward several feet. Almost all the town’s brick buildings collapsed; many people were killed on the footpaths as they rushed outside. The quake triggered fires throughout town, and with water mains shattered, little could be done to stop the blazes that devoured the remaining wooden structures. Only a few buildings survived (the Public Service Building with its neoclassical pillars is one), and the death toll was well over 100.The surviving townspeople set up tents and cookhouses in Nelson Park, and then tackled the city’s reconstruction at a remarkable pace. In the rush to rebuild, Napier went mad for art deco, the bold, geometric style that had burst on the global design scene in 1925. Now a walk through the art deco district, concentrated between Emerson, Herschell, Dalton, and Browning streets, is a stylistic immersion. The decorative elements are often above the ground floors, so keep your eyes up.
Wellington, New Zealand
New Zealand’s capital is, arguably, the country’s most cosmopolitan metropolis. It’s world-class Te Papa Tongarewa-Museum of New Zealand is a don’t-miss attraction, and the burgeoning film industry led, of course, by the Lord of the Rings extravaganzas has injected new life into the local arts scene. Attractive and compact enough to be explored easily on foot, Wellington is a booming destination. Modern high-rise buildings gaze over Port Nicholson, surely one of the finest natural anchorages in the world. Known to local Māori as The Great Harbor of Tara, its two massive arms form the jaws of the fish of Maui from Māori legend. Sometimes referred to as the windy city, Wellington has been the seat of New Zealand’s government since 1865.
Wellington, New Zealand
New Zealand’s capital is, arguably, the country’s most cosmopolitan metropolis. It’s world-class Te Papa Tongarewa-Museum of New Zealand is a don’t-miss attraction, and the burgeoning film industry led, of course, by the Lord of the Rings extravaganzas has injected new life into the local arts scene. Attractive and compact enough to be explored easily on foot, Wellington is a booming destination. Modern high-rise buildings gaze over Port Nicholson, surely one of the finest natural anchorages in the world. Known to local Māori as The Great Harbor of Tara, its two massive arms form the jaws of the fish of Maui from Māori legend. Sometimes referred to as the windy city, Wellington has been the seat of New Zealand’s government since 1865.
Blenheim, New Zealand
Say goodbye to the North Island as you travel across the Cook Strait and the Marlborough Sounds to the South Island. Your destination is Blenheim, a city set among an abundance of wineries and restaurants. Marlborough is renowned for its wines, and Blenheim provides a stunning showcase for these top drops.
Enhance your stay in Blenheim with your choice of these Scenic Freechoice activities.
Scenic Freechoice:
Wine Tasting Marlborough Wineries: Marlborough is a place of rugged natural beauty, with vineyards bordered by the ocean and the Wither Hills Mountain ranges. On a tasting tour, discover the pioneering spirit and history of this area, famed for its Sauvignon Blanc wines.
Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre: Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre presents the outstanding Knights of the Sky exhibition. Enjoy a guided tour featuring Sir Peter Jackson’s own collection of WWI aircraft and artefacts.
Stay overnight in Blenheim.
Auckland, New Zealand
Auckland is called the City of Sails, and visitors flying in will see why. On the East Coast is the Waitemata Harbour—a Māori word meaning sparkling waters—which is bordered by the Hauraki Gulf, an aquatic playground peppered with small islands where many Aucklanders can be found “mucking around in boats.”Not surprisingly, Auckland has some 70,000 boats. About one in four households in Auckland has a seacraft of some kind, and there are 102 beaches within an hour’s drive; during the week many are quite empty. Even the airport is by the water; it borders the Manukau Harbour, which also takes its name from the Māori language and means solitary bird.According to Māori tradition, the Auckland isthmus was originally peopled by a race of giants and fairy folk. When Europeans arrived in the early 19th century, however, the Ngāti-Whātua tribe was firmly in control of the region. The British began negotiations with the Ngāti-Whātua in 1840 to purchase the isthmus and establish the colony’s first capital. In September of that year the British flag was hoisted to mark the township’s foundation, and Auckland remained the capital until 1865, when the seat of government was moved to Wellington. Aucklanders expected to suffer from the shift; it hurt their pride but not their pockets. As the terminal for the South Sea shipping routes, Auckland was already an established commercial center. Since then the urban sprawl has made this city of approximately 1.3 million people one of the world’s largest geographically.A couple of days in the city will reveal just how developed and sophisticated Auckland is—the Mercer City Survey 2012 saw it ranked as the third-highest city for quality of life—though those seeking a New York in the South Pacific will be disappointed. Auckland is more get-up and go-outside than get-dressed-up and go-out. That said, most shops are open daily, central bars and a few nightclubs buzz well into the wee hours, especially Thursday through Saturday, and a mix of Māori, Pacific people, Asians, and Europeans contributes to the cultural milieu. Auckland has the world’s largest single population of Pacific Islanders living outside their home countries, though many of them live outside the central parts of the city and in Manukau to the south. The Samoan language is the second most spoken in New Zealand. Most Pacific people came to New Zealand seeking a better life. When the plentiful, low-skilled work that attracted them dried up, the dream soured, and the population has suffered with poor health and education. Luckily, policies are now addressing that, and change is slowly coming. The Pacifica Festival in March is the region’s biggest cultural event, attracting thousands to Western Springs. The annual Pacific Island Secondary Schools’ Competition, also in March, sees young Pacific Islander and Asian students compete in traditional dance, drumming, and singing. This event is open to the public.At the geographical center of Auckland city is the 1,082-foot Sky Tower, a convenient landmark for those exploring on foot and some say a visible sign of the city’s naked aspiration. It has earned nicknames like the Needle and the Big Penis—a counterpoint to a poem by acclaimed New Zealand poet James K. Baxter, which refers to Rangitoto Island as a clitoris in the harbor.The Waitemata Harbour has become better known since New Zealand staged its first defense of the America’s Cup in 2000 and the successful Louis Vuitton Pacific Series in early 2009. The first regatta saw major redevelopment of the waterfront. The area, where many of the city’s most popular bars, cafés, and restaurants are located, is now known as Viaduct Basin or, more commonly, the Viaduct. A recent expansion has created another area, Wynyard Quarter, which is slowly adding restaurants.These days, Auckland is still considered too bold and brash for its own good by many Kiwis who live “south of the Bombay Hills,” the geographical divide between Auckland and the rest of New Zealand (barring Northland). “Jafa,” an acronym for “just another f—ing Aucklander,” has entered the local lexicon; there’s even a book out called Way of the Jafa: A Guide to Surviving Auckland and Aucklanders. A common complaint is that Auckland absorbs the wealth from the hard work of the rest of the country. Most Aucklanders, on the other hand, still try to shrug and see it as the parochial envy of those who live in small towns. But these internal identity squabbles aren’t your problem. You can enjoy a well-made coffee in almost any café, or take a walk on a beach—knowing that within 30 minutes’ driving time you could be cruising the spectacular harbor, playing a round at a public golf course, or even walking in subtropical forest while listening to the song of a native tûî bird.
Rotorua, New Zealand
Take a trip to Middle earth with a visit to the Hobbiton™ Movie Set. Built for the filming of director Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy, a Hobbiton™ tour takes you behind the scenes of the phenomenally successful movies and into a world of magic and adventure. Set in the heart of the picturesque Waikato region, Hobbiton™ is a must for fans of the Tolkien universe.
Then head to Rotorua, home of Maori culture and bubbling hot springs. Be immersed in both as you explore this geothermic hotspot, located within the Pacific Rim of Fire. Unique cultural experiences, such as hangi feasts cooked underground or village tours, provide deep insights into Maori history and lifestyle. The thermal pools themselves are an integral part of Maori healing.
Later, visit the National Kiwi Hatchery, the largest in the world, and discover how these unique birds are reared. The National Kiwi Hatchery hatches close to 120 chicks every year as part of a breeding program designed to protect this national icon.
Tonight, enjoy your two-night stay in Rotorua.
Rotorua, New Zealand
This morning, take a nature discovery treewalk along Rotorua’s mighty redwoods. Visit Te Puia Rotorua Geothermal Park, where you’ll witness bubbling mud ponds and powerful geysers of steam erupting from deep below.
During your time in Rotorua, enjoy your choice from the following Scenic Freechoice activities.
Scenic Freechoice:
City and Lakes Tour: Unlike any other tour in Rotorua, this is the best way to see the city and experience the beauty of the surrounding lake district all at once. Take a thrilling ride aboard an authentic WWII amphibious landing craft on this sightseeing adventure, enjoying the sights of Rotorua by land and water.
Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa. Situated on the foreshore of Lake Rotorua, unwind in a therapeutic and rejuvenating experience, drawing on the centuries old legacy of Ngati Whakaue practices and culture.
Gondola Ride & Volcanic Hills Winery: Sample carefully crafted Volcanic Hills wines from New Zealand’s most recognised and respected wine region, all while enjoying panoramic views over Lake Rotorua.
Scenic Enrich
Tonight, immerse yourself in Maori traditions at an authentic hangi dinner. This traditional method of cooking involves heated rocks in an umu, a pit oven buried underground. Meat and vegetables cooked in this style are made tender and filled with a smoky flavour.
You may choose to take a floatplane flight over the volcanic Mt Tarawera (additional expense, please book prior to departure).
Napier, New Zealand
The earthquake that struck Napier at 10:46 am on February 3, 1931, was—at 7.8 on the Richter scale—the largest quake ever recorded in New Zealand. The coastline was wrenched upward several feet. Almost all the town’s brick buildings collapsed; many people were killed on the footpaths as they rushed outside. The quake triggered fires throughout town, and with water mains shattered, little could be done to stop the blazes that devoured the remaining wooden structures. Only a few buildings survived (the Public Service Building with its neoclassical pillars is one), and the death toll was well over 100.The surviving townspeople set up tents and cookhouses in Nelson Park, and then tackled the city’s reconstruction at a remarkable pace. In the rush to rebuild, Napier went mad for art deco, the bold, geometric style that had burst on the global design scene in 1925. Now a walk through the art deco district, concentrated between Emerson, Herschell, Dalton, and Browning streets, is a stylistic immersion. The decorative elements are often above the ground floors, so keep your eyes up.
Wellington, New Zealand
New Zealand’s capital is, arguably, the country’s most cosmopolitan metropolis. It’s world-class Te Papa Tongarewa-Museum of New Zealand is a don’t-miss attraction, and the burgeoning film industry led, of course, by the Lord of the Rings extravaganzas has injected new life into the local arts scene. Attractive and compact enough to be explored easily on foot, Wellington is a booming destination. Modern high-rise buildings gaze over Port Nicholson, surely one of the finest natural anchorages in the world. Known to local Māori as The Great Harbor of Tara, its two massive arms form the jaws of the fish of Maui from Māori legend. Sometimes referred to as the windy city, Wellington has been the seat of New Zealand’s government since 1865.
Wellington, New Zealand
New Zealand’s capital is, arguably, the country’s most cosmopolitan metropolis. It’s world-class Te Papa Tongarewa-Museum of New Zealand is a don’t-miss attraction, and the burgeoning film industry led, of course, by the Lord of the Rings extravaganzas has injected new life into the local arts scene. Attractive and compact enough to be explored easily on foot, Wellington is a booming destination. Modern high-rise buildings gaze over Port Nicholson, surely one of the finest natural anchorages in the world. Known to local Māori as The Great Harbor of Tara, its two massive arms form the jaws of the fish of Maui from Māori legend. Sometimes referred to as the windy city, Wellington has been the seat of New Zealand’s government since 1865.
Blenheim, New Zealand
Say goodbye to the North Island as you travel across the Cook Strait and the Marlborough Sounds to the South Island. Your destination is Blenheim, a city set among an abundance of wineries and restaurants. Marlborough is renowned for its wines, and Blenheim provides a stunning showcase for these top drops.
Enhance your stay in Blenheim with your choice of these Scenic Freechoice activities.
Scenic Freechoice:
Wine Tasting Marlborough Wineries: Marlborough is a place of rugged natural beauty, with vineyards bordered by the ocean and the Wither Hills Mountain ranges. On a tasting tour, discover the pioneering spirit and history of this area, famed for its Sauvignon Blanc wines.
Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre: Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre presents the outstanding Knights of the Sky exhibition. Enjoy a guided tour featuring Sir Peter Jackson’s own collection of WWI aircraft and artefacts.
Stay overnight in Blenheim.
Christchurch, New Zealand
Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s most English cities. The Anglisation of the area is quickly evident throughout. The name Christchurch, is named after one of the most famous Oxford Colleges. Traditional English styled punts can be seen drifting lazily along the Avon River, and customary striped blazers are still worn by students at Christ’s College.
Christchurch, New Zealand
Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s most English cities. The Anglisation of the area is quickly evident throughout. The name Christchurch, is named after one of the most famous Oxford Colleges. Traditional English styled punts can be seen drifting lazily along the Avon River, and customary striped blazers are still worn by students at Christ’s College.
Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand
Join the TranzAlpine this morning for your rail journey across the Southern Alps. One of the world’s great train journeys, TranzAlpine takes you from coast to coast across the South Island. Along the way, you’ll pass the patchwork countryside and braided rivers of the Canterbury Plains and the gorges and valleys of the Waimakariri River.
Once you arrive, it’s time to see the ever-changing face of the imposing Franz Josef Glacier for yourself. This World Heritage area is just five kilometres from the town of Franz Josef and offers a unique look at a relic of the last ice age.
Enjoy your overnight Special Stay. This luxurious and sustainable haven is surrounded by native West Coast rainforest.
You may choose to take a helicopter flight over Franz Josef or Fox Glacier and experience the wonder of a landing in this natural alpine landscape (additional expense, please book prior to departure).
Queenstown, New Zealand
Enjoy a ride on the fully enclosed Haast River Safari jet boat for a closer look at the glacial valley of the South Westland World Heritage area. Stay warm and dry as you cruise past spectacular mountain views, rushing waterfalls and lush native forests.
Afterwards, you’ll head to the alpine city of Queenstown for a three-night stay.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Welcome to Queenstown, the South Island alpine village that’s the adventure capital of New Zealand.
Today, elevate your Queenstown stay with your choice of these exciting Scenic Freechoice activities.
Scenic Freechoice:
Dart River Safari: Travel to the frontier township of Glenorchy and discover a unique and dramatic environment in the pristine Dart River Valley. Combining breathtaking World Heritage-listed scenery, exhilarating wilderness jetboating and Maori heritage, this is an inspiring adventure.
Boutique Winery Tour: Enjoy a relaxed tour visiting a selection of Queenstown’s award-winning boutique wineries. Sample fine wine and food, with wine barrel-cooked tasting dishes including both traditional and wild foods.
Shotover Jet Adventure: As the accelerator hits the floor, your adrenaline hits the roof as you power through the Shotover River and deep into the nearby canyons. It’s an amazing ride, as your driver skilfully whips past rocky outcrops.
Safari of the Scenes Tour: Step into the real locations of films such as ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’ trilogies. Bring the films to life with authentic replica props, dress up and take photos or simply soak up the breathtaking mountain and forest scenery.
Skyline Gondola: Take a scenic ride in the iconic Skyline Gondola and enjoy spectacular views over Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu.
Skippers Canyon: Discover this gold mining area on a tour offering some of the most spectacular remote mountain scenery and historic sites at every corner. Travel in a comfortable 4WD minibus.
Scenic Freechoice Dining:
Take a steamship cruise on TSS Earnslaw and enjoy dinner at Walter Peak, dine at a local restaurant or enjoy dinner at your hotel.
TSS Earnslaw and Walter Peak Station: Relive the elegance of bygone days with a cruise aboard the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw, followed by a carvery style dinner at Walter Peak High Country Station, featuring an expansive array of local produce.
Boardwalk Restaurant: Located in one of Queenstown’s most iconic waterfront sites and offering a contemporary blend of fresh seafood, meats and local produce.
The Observatory Restaurant: Located within The Millennium Hotel Queenstown, The Observatory Restaurant lives up to its name. Serving up some of the finest contemporary New Zealand cuisine and carefully curated wines, all while you enjoy the refreshing alpine views.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Enjoy a day at leisure to discover Queenstown. Best known for its thrilling skiing scene, Queenstown also offers an incredible assortment of scenic walks and hikes, a thriving boutique winery scene, jet boats and kayaking, and of course, spectacular views at every turn.
Milford Sound, New Zealand
New Zealand fiord country along with Fiordland National Park is one of New Zealand’s premier attractions. Incredibly beautiful, wild and remote, the region is an intriguing combination of rugged mountain ranges, dense rainforest, solitary alpine lakes, sparkling rivers and splashing waterfalls. Much of Fiordland is virtually unexplored wilderness and still the habitat of rare birds. As the ship cruises the beautiful Doubtful, Dusky and Milford Sounds, experience the majestic fiordland of South Island’s western coast. Captain James Cook sailed along this coast in 1770 and again in 1773, when he anchored at Dusky Sound for a rest and ship repair. Doubtful Sound is one of the region’s most majestic fiords. It is ten times larger than Milford Sound. As the ship cruises into Hall Arm, gaze at vertical cliffs and mighty waterfalls plunging over sheer rock faces. In fine weather, mountains and greenery are reflected in the protected waters of the fiord. Farther north lies Milford Sound. Far from any populated area, Milford Sound is famous for its grandeur and spectacular beauty. It is perhaps the best example of New Zealand’s renowned classic landscape of steep granite peaks framing glacier-carved inlets with mirrored reflections on dark waters. Dominating the scene is Milford’s landmark, the triangular pinnacle of Mitre Peak. Along the sheer cliffs, several waterfalls tumble more than 500 feet (154 metres) into the sheltered Sound. Only a few moored boats and a scattering of buildings at the head of the Sound break the unity of mountains, forest and water. This spectacular beauty and unspoiled setting is yours to enjoy as the ship cruises Milford Sound.
Christchurch, New Zealand
Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s most English cities. The Anglisation of the area is quickly evident throughout. The name Christchurch, is named after one of the most famous Oxford Colleges. Traditional English styled punts can be seen drifting lazily along the Avon River, and customary striped blazers are still worn by students at Christ’s College.
Christchurch, New Zealand
Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s most English cities. The Anglisation of the area is quickly evident throughout. The name Christchurch, is named after one of the most famous Oxford Colleges. Traditional English styled punts can be seen drifting lazily along the Avon River, and customary striped blazers are still worn by students at Christ’s College.
Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand
Join the TranzAlpine this morning for your rail journey across the Southern Alps. One of the world’s great train journeys, TranzAlpine takes you from coast to coast across the South Island. Along the way, you’ll pass the patchwork countryside and braided rivers of the Canterbury Plains and the gorges and valleys of the Waimakariri River.
Once you arrive, it’s time to see the ever-changing face of the imposing Franz Josef Glacier for yourself. This World Heritage area is just five kilometres from the town of Franz Josef and offers a unique look at a relic of the last ice age.
Enjoy your overnight Special Stay. This luxurious and sustainable haven is surrounded by native West Coast rainforest.
You may choose to take a helicopter flight over Franz Josef or Fox Glacier and experience the wonder of a landing in this natural alpine landscape (additional expense, please book prior to departure).
Queenstown, New Zealand
Enjoy a ride on the fully enclosed Haast River Safari jet boat for a closer look at the glacial valley of the South Westland World Heritage area. Stay warm and dry as you cruise past spectacular mountain views, rushing waterfalls and lush native forests.
Afterwards, you’ll head to the alpine city of Queenstown for a three-night stay.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Welcome to Queenstown, the South Island alpine village that’s the adventure capital of New Zealand.
Today, elevate your Queenstown stay with your choice of these exciting Scenic Freechoice activities.
Scenic Freechoice:
Dart River Safari: Travel to the frontier township of Glenorchy and discover a unique and dramatic environment in the pristine Dart River Valley. Combining breathtaking World Heritage-listed scenery, exhilarating wilderness jetboating and Maori heritage, this is an inspiring adventure.
Boutique Winery Tour: Enjoy a relaxed tour visiting a selection of Queenstown’s award-winning boutique wineries. Sample fine wine and food, with wine barrel-cooked tasting dishes including both traditional and wild foods.
Shotover Jet Adventure: As the accelerator hits the floor, your adrenaline hits the roof as you power through the Shotover River and deep into the nearby canyons. It’s an amazing ride, as your driver skilfully whips past rocky outcrops.
Safari of the Scenes Tour: Step into the real locations of films such as ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’ trilogies. Bring the films to life with authentic replica props, dress up and take photos or simply soak up the breathtaking mountain and forest scenery.
Skyline Gondola: Take a scenic ride in the iconic Skyline Gondola and enjoy spectacular views over Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu.
Skippers Canyon: Discover this gold mining area on a tour offering some of the most spectacular remote mountain scenery and historic sites at every corner. Travel in a comfortable 4WD minibus.
Scenic Freechoice Dining:
Take a steamship cruise on TSS Earnslaw and enjoy dinner at Walter Peak, dine at a local restaurant or enjoy dinner at your hotel.
TSS Earnslaw and Walter Peak Station: Relive the elegance of bygone days with a cruise aboard the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw, followed by a carvery style dinner at Walter Peak High Country Station, featuring an expansive array of local produce.
Boardwalk Restaurant: Located in one of Queenstown’s most iconic waterfront sites and offering a contemporary blend of fresh seafood, meats and local produce.
The Observatory Restaurant: Located within The Millennium Hotel Queenstown, The Observatory Restaurant lives up to its name. Serving up some of the finest contemporary New Zealand cuisine and carefully curated wines, all while you enjoy the refreshing alpine views.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Enjoy a day at leisure to discover Queenstown. Best known for its thrilling skiing scene, Queenstown also offers an incredible assortment of scenic walks and hikes, a thriving boutique winery scene, jet boats and kayaking, and of course, spectacular views at every turn.
Milford Sound, New Zealand
New Zealand fiord country along with Fiordland National Park is one of New Zealand’s premier attractions. Incredibly beautiful, wild and remote, the region is an intriguing combination of rugged mountain ranges, dense rainforest, solitary alpine lakes, sparkling rivers and splashing waterfalls. Much of Fiordland is virtually unexplored wilderness and still the habitat of rare birds. As the ship cruises the beautiful Doubtful, Dusky and Milford Sounds, experience the majestic fiordland of South Island’s western coast. Captain James Cook sailed along this coast in 1770 and again in 1773, when he anchored at Dusky Sound for a rest and ship repair. Doubtful Sound is one of the region’s most majestic fiords. It is ten times larger than Milford Sound. As the ship cruises into Hall Arm, gaze at vertical cliffs and mighty waterfalls plunging over sheer rock faces. In fine weather, mountains and greenery are reflected in the protected waters of the fiord. Farther north lies Milford Sound. Far from any populated area, Milford Sound is famous for its grandeur and spectacular beauty. It is perhaps the best example of New Zealand’s renowned classic landscape of steep granite peaks framing glacier-carved inlets with mirrored reflections on dark waters. Dominating the scene is Milford’s landmark, the triangular pinnacle of Mitre Peak. Along the sheer cliffs, several waterfalls tumble more than 500 feet (154 metres) into the sheltered Sound. Only a few moored boats and a scattering of buildings at the head of the Sound break the unity of mountains, forest and water. This spectacular beauty and unspoiled setting is yours to enjoy as the ship cruises Milford Sound.
Dunedin, New Zealand
Clinging to the walls of the natural amphitheater at the west end of Otago Harbour, the South Island’s second-largest city is enriched with inspiring nearby seascapes and wildlife. Because Dunedin is a university town, floods of students give the city a vitality far greater than its population of 122,000 might suggest. Its manageable size makes it easy to explore on foot—with the possible exception of Baldwin Street, the world’s steepest residential street and home to the annual “gutbuster” race, in which people run up it, and the “Jaffa” race, in which people roll the namesake spherical chocolate candy down it.Dunedin, the Gaelic name for Edinburgh, was founded in 1848 by settlers of the Free Church of Scotland, a breakaway group from the Presbyterian Church. The city’s Scottish roots are still visible; you’ll find New Zealand’s first and only (legal) whisky distillery, a statue of Scottish poet Robert Burns, and more kilts, sporrans, and gillies than you can shake a stick at! The Scottish settlers and local Māori came together in relative peace, but this wasn’t true of the European whalers who were here three decades before, as places with names such as Murdering Beach illustrate.Dunedin has always had a reputation for the eccentric. Wearing no shoes and a big beard here marks a man as bohemian rather than destitute, and the residents wouldn’t have it any other way. The University of Otago was the country’s first university and has been drawing writers ever since its founding in 1871, most notably Janet Frame and the poet James K. Baxter. Dunedin also has a musical heritage, which blossomed into the “Dunedin Sound” of the 1970s and ’80s.
Dunedin, New Zealand
Clinging to the walls of the natural amphitheater at the west end of Otago Harbour, the South Island’s second-largest city is enriched with inspiring nearby seascapes and wildlife. Because Dunedin is a university town, floods of students give the city a vitality far greater than its population of 122,000 might suggest. Its manageable size makes it easy to explore on foot—with the possible exception of Baldwin Street, the world’s steepest residential street and home to the annual “gutbuster” race, in which people run up it, and the “Jaffa” race, in which people roll the namesake spherical chocolate candy down it.Dunedin, the Gaelic name for Edinburgh, was founded in 1848 by settlers of the Free Church of Scotland, a breakaway group from the Presbyterian Church. The city’s Scottish roots are still visible; you’ll find New Zealand’s first and only (legal) whisky distillery, a statue of Scottish poet Robert Burns, and more kilts, sporrans, and gillies than you can shake a stick at! The Scottish settlers and local Māori came together in relative peace, but this wasn’t true of the European whalers who were here three decades before, as places with names such as Murdering Beach illustrate.Dunedin has always had a reputation for the eccentric. Wearing no shoes and a big beard here marks a man as bohemian rather than destitute, and the residents wouldn’t have it any other way. The University of Otago was the country’s first university and has been drawing writers ever since its founding in 1871, most notably Janet Frame and the poet James K. Baxter. Dunedin also has a musical heritage, which blossomed into the “Dunedin Sound” of the 1970s and ’80s.
Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand
Visit the Moeraki Boulders, a unique sight featuring huge spherical boulders scattered across a sandy beach. Cross the mountainous, fertile, sheep-filled farming land of Central Otago en route to the heady alpine landscape of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, where the mountains touch the sky. Enjoy a Special Stay.
Christchurch, New Zealand
Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s most English cities. The Anglisation of the area is quickly evident throughout. The name Christchurch, is named after one of the most famous Oxford Colleges. Traditional English styled punts can be seen drifting lazily along the Avon River, and customary striped blazers are still worn by students at Christ’s College.
Christchurch, New Zealand
Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s most English cities. The Anglisation of the area is quickly evident throughout. The name Christchurch, is named after one of the most famous Oxford Colleges. Traditional English styled punts can be seen drifting lazily along the Avon River, and customary striped blazers are still worn by students at Christ’s College.
Dunedin, New Zealand
Clinging to the walls of the natural amphitheater at the west end of Otago Harbour, the South Island’s second-largest city is enriched with inspiring nearby seascapes and wildlife. Because Dunedin is a university town, floods of students give the city a vitality far greater than its population of 122,000 might suggest. Its manageable size makes it easy to explore on foot—with the possible exception of Baldwin Street, the world’s steepest residential street and home to the annual “gutbuster” race, in which people run up it, and the “Jaffa” race, in which people roll the namesake spherical chocolate candy down it.Dunedin, the Gaelic name for Edinburgh, was founded in 1848 by settlers of the Free Church of Scotland, a breakaway group from the Presbyterian Church. The city’s Scottish roots are still visible; you’ll find New Zealand’s first and only (legal) whisky distillery, a statue of Scottish poet Robert Burns, and more kilts, sporrans, and gillies than you can shake a stick at! The Scottish settlers and local Māori came together in relative peace, but this wasn’t true of the European whalers who were here three decades before, as places with names such as Murdering Beach illustrate.Dunedin has always had a reputation for the eccentric. Wearing no shoes and a big beard here marks a man as bohemian rather than destitute, and the residents wouldn’t have it any other way. The University of Otago was the country’s first university and has been drawing writers ever since its founding in 1871, most notably Janet Frame and the poet James K. Baxter. Dunedin also has a musical heritage, which blossomed into the “Dunedin Sound” of the 1970s and ’80s.
Dunedin, New Zealand
Clinging to the walls of the natural amphitheater at the west end of Otago Harbour, the South Island’s second-largest city is enriched with inspiring nearby seascapes and wildlife. Because Dunedin is a university town, floods of students give the city a vitality far greater than its population of 122,000 might suggest. Its manageable size makes it easy to explore on foot—with the possible exception of Baldwin Street, the world’s steepest residential street and home to the annual “gutbuster” race, in which people run up it, and the “Jaffa” race, in which people roll the namesake spherical chocolate candy down it.Dunedin, the Gaelic name for Edinburgh, was founded in 1848 by settlers of the Free Church of Scotland, a breakaway group from the Presbyterian Church. The city’s Scottish roots are still visible; you’ll find New Zealand’s first and only (legal) whisky distillery, a statue of Scottish poet Robert Burns, and more kilts, sporrans, and gillies than you can shake a stick at! The Scottish settlers and local Māori came together in relative peace, but this wasn’t true of the European whalers who were here three decades before, as places with names such as Murdering Beach illustrate.Dunedin has always had a reputation for the eccentric. Wearing no shoes and a big beard here marks a man as bohemian rather than destitute, and the residents wouldn’t have it any other way. The University of Otago was the country’s first university and has been drawing writers ever since its founding in 1871, most notably Janet Frame and the poet James K. Baxter. Dunedin also has a musical heritage, which blossomed into the “Dunedin Sound” of the 1970s and ’80s.
Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand
Visit the Moeraki Boulders, a unique sight featuring huge spherical boulders scattered across a sandy beach. Cross the mountainous, fertile, sheep-filled farming land of Central Otago en route to the heady alpine landscape of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, where the mountains touch the sky. Enjoy a Special Stay.
Christchurch, New Zealand
Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s most English cities. The Anglisation of the area is quickly evident throughout. The name Christchurch, is named after one of the most famous Oxford Colleges. Traditional English styled punts can be seen drifting lazily along the Avon River, and customary striped blazers are still worn by students at Christ’s College.
Christchurch, New Zealand
Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s most English cities. The Anglisation of the area is quickly evident throughout. The name Christchurch, is named after one of the most famous Oxford Colleges. Traditional English styled punts can be seen drifting lazily along the Avon River, and customary striped blazers are still worn by students at Christ’s College.