New Zealand north & south island self-drive exploring mt Cook, Milford Sound, Queenston, Franz Josef glacier, tranzAlpine train, Rotorau

ALPINE DELIGHT. EXPLORE NEW ZEALAND

Explore New Zealand by car or by coach

For a free vacation quote, send a request to: Info@YtravelC.com

INCLUDED FEATURES:

Spectacular Milford Sound cruise

3 nights in exciting Queenstown

Opportunity to visit famous FranzJosef Glacier

TranzAlpine scenic rail journey (Seat-in-Coach only)

2 nights in geothermal Rotorua

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

DAY TO DAY ITINERARY:

Day 1 - Arrive Christchurch
Welcome to Christchurch, the ‘Garden City’. Perhaps visit the International Antarctic Centre – the ‘must see’ attraction in Christchurch – a unique experience located right next to the International Airport.

Day 2 - Christchurch/ Aoraki/Mount Cook/ Queenstown
(369 miles/594 kms) (optional meal plans begin today) Today travel south across the Canterbury Plains, through the Mackenzie country via Lake Tekapo. Continue on to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. We suggest a scenic flight over some of the finest alpine scenery. Continue on to Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital.

Day 3 - Milford Sound Day Excursion
Travel with Great Sights along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau, gateway to the Fiordland National Park. From the Homer Tunnel emerge into the Cleddau Valley. Join your Milford Sound Red Boat Cruise, for an unforgettable experience, and explore the wonder of this majestic fiord. Return to Queenstown.

Day 4 - Queenstown
A free day to enjoy the many leisure pursuits on offer. Staff at ‘The Station Information Centre’ can assist with information and reservations for a huge selection of things to see and do.

Day 5 - Queenstown/ Franz Josef
(251 miles/404 kms) Travel north today via Lakes Wanaka and Hawea. Enjoy the rugged West Coast scenery through the Haast Pass and continue on to Franz Josef. We suggest an optional scenic glacier flight to enjoy the stunning scenery this region offers.

Day 6 - Franz Josef/ Tranzalpine Train/ Christchurch
(249 miles/400 kms) Travel to Greymouth and board the scenic TranzAlpine train (Seat-in-Coach only) for a journey famous for its spectacular mountain scenery as it traverses the Southern Alps, which divide the East and West Coasts of the South Island. Travel across the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch.

Day 7 - Christchurch/ Rotorua (airfare not included)
Fly to Rotorua, New Zealand’s thermal wonderland. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel. We suggest an optional visit to the Polynesian Spa for a relaxing soak.

Day 8 - Rotorua Sightseeing (dinner included)
Today experience the many varied sights that Rotorua has to offer. Visit Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve. Learn about traditional Maori crafts at the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, before travelling to Rainbow Springs and Rainbow Farm Show. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure. This evening enjoy a unique Maori Hangi (feast) and Concert.

Day 9 - Rotorua/ Waitomo/Auckland
(226 miles/363 kms) (lunch included) Travel north this morning to the fascinating Waitomo Caves, where you will enjoy lunch. Afterwards, enjoy a guided tour of the famous Glowworm Grotto. Continue on to downtown Auckland.

Or Code RC18R/RS18R
This tour can be taken in a reverse direction, starting from Auckland and concluding in Christchurch

DEPARTS: Daily

PRICES 2008: From $1360 per person for Self-drive. Additional for coach. AIRFARE EXTRA.

HOTELS: Choose from 3 category of accommodations moderate, first class and deluxe. Airfare and taxes extra. Itinerary can be extended to include more of New Zealand and/or Australia and any of the South Pacific Islands. Seat in coach includes transfers. Self-drive prices do not include vehicle insurance.