Welcome with your personal meet and greeting from us as we arrange your private transfer to your accommodation.

You will be greeted at the airport as you disembark your flight and transferred to your city airport accommodation. You will also receive your trip welcome pack along with a complimentary sim card and we will ensure you fully understand all that you will see, hear and experience on your New Zealand journey.

You can choose with us to be fully guided with your private host and one of our luxury vehicles or you can enjoy the option of a self drive vacation around our beautiful country with clear driving instructions and maps for each leg of your journey.

If you do choose to self drive with us we will ensure you receive all your reservation details for your accommodation and activities – along with relevant brochures and information. While in New Zealand we offer 24 hour support – details on how to contact us at any time will be well documented.

Welcome to our New Zealand Cities.

From Auckland to Christchurch, Queenstown to Wellington, Dunedin to Invercargill, you will be perfectly welcomed into the one you choose to begin your New Zealand journey.

Explore Auckland City, straddling two natural harbours, New Zealand’s ‘City of Sails’ is the country’s largest. Encircled by wine regions, native bush, rainforests and beaches – this urban paradise is also known for its world-class shopping, designer boutiques and gourmet cuisine. Dotted with volcanoes and ringed by islands, Auckland is a playground for both the city savvy and those with an eye for adventure. Explore the suburbs of Parnell and Ponsonby with their upmarket galleries, back-alley wine bars, and trendy eateries or wander up high High St or Vulcan Lane to snag a boutique bargain. Venture further afield to the rural community of Clevedon to experience the delights of the country and make time to explore one of over 800 regional parks with deserted beaches, waterfalls and forest walks.

What makes Auckland so special is its vibrant cultural melting pot – a diversity reflected in the cuisine, festivals, art and music. Auckland has always attracted many people of many different cultures. By the 1890s, the city was very cosmopolitan with people from Europe, China and India making this place their home. This theme continued throughout the 20th century, particularly in the 1950s when the post-World War II baby boom boosted the population. A significant number of indigenous Maori moved to the city, followed by pacific islanders in the late 1960s. European immigrants from places such as Hungary, Yugoslavia and Holland began what is now a thriving and diverse food culture. Today, Auckland is the world’s largest Polynesian city. Resident Aucklanders come from all round the world – just over half of its residents are of European descent, 11% are Maori, 13% are of Pacific Island descent and there is a growing Asian population of around 12%.

Your accommodation would be located either close to downtown Auckland ot just outside of Auckland City near to beaches and the ocean. You choose.

Room type: We can organise any room type – just ask.

Cross with us the fertile plains of Hauraki Plains towards the Thames Estuary, a haven for wildlife in particular the shore birds at Miranda.

Arriving into the historic gold town of Thames you then cross the Southern Coromandel Ranges and onto the wonderful east coast of the peninsula and the harbour town of Tairua.

Paku Hill offers spectacular views over the natural harbour and the Pacific Ocean. Close by is the famous Hot Water Beach and the holiday town of Hahei.

Cathedral Cove is a popular walk and is well worth the effort to view the massive limestone formation aptly named on the golden sand beach.

Cross the Coromandel Countryside towards the township of Whitianga. Captain Cook arrived there in 1769 to observe the transit of Mercury and hence the bay the town sits on was named. This small bustling town once played a major part in the kauri logging industry with over 150 million metres of timber being exported between 1830 and the end of the century. Today the town has a many cafes and craft shops with its income derived mainly from tourists. The summer months bring visitors to enjoy fishing, surfcasting and swimming along the palm fringed beaches. But the largest attraction is probably the big game marlin fishing with many charters available to hunt in the rich waters of the Pacific Ocean. On the other side of the harbour is Australasia’s oldest stone wharf from where a passenger ferry takes visitors to the delightful Cooks Beach just a 5 minute walk along the road.

Coves, Caves and Coastline Cruise from Whitianga – Explore the volcanic coastline with its many caves, blowholes and golden beaches all from the comfort and safety of an ex coastguard 28 ft cruiser. Departing from Whitianga Wharf journey past the towering Shakespeare’s Cliffs and historic Cooks Beach. Visit Cathedral Cove and the islands in the marine reserve. There is also a chance to swim with the abundant fish in the reserve (on board snorkel gear provided – don’t forget your swimsuit and towel). For those who prefer to stay dry an underwater camera relays images to an onboard TV.

Your accommodation suggestions we can provide have everything you need for an exceptional and enjoyable stay. Enjoy the spectacular views across beautiful Mercury Bay and Buffalo Beach while you relax in the comfort of your spacious and well appointed accommodation.

Room type: We can arrange for you depending on your requirements.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg is: 186 kms / 116 miles : 2.4 hours

Explore with us Hot Water Beach which derives its name from the geothermally heated water that continually seeps in through the sands. At low tide you can dig a hole and create your own mineral pool. The beach itself is golden, fine sand and is an ideal place to relax. A few cafes and art stores are also worth a look – in particular Moko which has a great range of local indigenous arts and crafts for sale.

Whitianga to Rotorua via Tauranga now we are heading south from the Coromandel Peninsula you pass through the seaside town of Whangamata – a popular location for Kiwi holidaymakers and home to one of the best beaches in the region. Next you come to the old mining town of Waihi which still has an operating open cast gold mine (Martha Mine) that can be viewed from a vantage point just above the town centre. For rail enthusiasts the Goldfields Railway operates passenger trains along a scenic and historic section of track towards Waikino. The route now takes you into the Bay of Plenty and the port town of Tauranga before you head along the scenic Pyes Pa Road to Rotorua. For Lord of the Rings fans a detour to Matamata is recommended as this is the location of the Hobbiton film set. Arriving into Rotorua from the north you are welcomed by the spectacular view of the lake.

Te Pō – Indigenous Evening Experience

Enjoy an in depth experience of the customs and traditions of Māori, with a traditional pōwhiri (Māori welcoming ceremony), a warrior’s challenge and a full kapa haka (Māori performing arts) concert. Feeding guests is regarded by Māori as an honour and a sign of a tribe’s mana (standing), so a sumptuous banquet is provided during the evening. This banquet combines contemporary cuisine with a traditional hangi (earth-cooked oven meal). Following dessert, you will be transported to enjoy the spectacular lighting of the Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley. Guests can wander around the illuminated natural attractions, including our world famous Pohutu geyser, while enjoying more Māori-inspired delicacies and a hot drink.

Your accommodation suggestions we can provide have everything you need for an exceptional and enjoyable stay. Enjoy the spectacular views across beautiful Mercury Bay and Buffalo Beach while you relax in the comfort of your spacious and well appointed accommodation.

Room type: We can arrange for you depending on your requirements.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg is: 220 kms / 137 miles : 3.4 hours

Peppered with natural hot springs, boiling mud pools and steaming geysers, Rotorua sits within one of the worlds most active volcanic regions.

Geothermal landmarks aside, this city of sulphur has a rich indigenous history. Home to several prominent Maori tribes, Rotorua is the perfect place to immerse yourself in our local culture.

Spend at evening at Mitai Maori Village for a hangi dinner and Maori performance. Book in for some relaxation at the Polynesian Spa and choose between a mud wrap, coconut oil massage or private mineral pool soak – or perhaps just get them all!Land in a helicopter on White Island, New Zealand’s most active volcano and traverse the crater for a once-in-a-lifetime hike.

Those in need of an adrenalin rush, should spend time at Velocity Valley Adventure Park, static skydiving, bungy jumping, and ‘swooping’ on the giant swing.

For a calmer day out, head up the Skyline Gondola for awe-inspiring views of the lake. While you’re there, grab a night luge pass for an extra thrill.

A fifty minute drive to nearby Matamata will land you directly in ‘middle earth’ Hobbiton, and is must see for even the most half hearted Lord Of The Rings fans.

Round off your Rotorua stay at the Wia-OTapu Thermal Wonderland and see the multicolored hot springs, geysers and boiling, mud pools.

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is a spectacular showcase of New Zealand’s most colourful and unique geothermal elements sculpted by thousands of years of volcanic activity. You are introduced to a uniquely different natural landscape – the key to what you see lies
below the surface – one of the most extensive geothermal systems in New Zealand, extending over 18-sq. km. Enjoy viewing unique volcanic features as you walk at your own pace along well-defined tracks.

Relax in the first-class Visitor Centre, home to the Gift Shop and Café facilities.

Visit the Mud Pool, the largest in New Zealand, it was originally the site of a large mud volcano which was destroyed through erosion in the 1920s.

See the history and beauty of the Lady Knox Geyser at 10:15 am every day. Lady Knox Geyser provides a unique opportunity to see an eruption to heights of 10 to 20 metres.

Rotorua’s Polynesian Spa offers a unique thermal spa experience on the shore of Lake Rotorua. You’ll enjoy tranquil bathing and lake views in four shallow alkaline rock pools, each with different temperatures (36˚C to 42˚C).

Here you are surrounded by revitalising native New Zealand flora, natural rocks, the sound of two waterfalls and a grotto. The pools are filled with soothing alkaline mineral water leaving your skin soft and supple. Relax in the outdoor relaxation area overlooking the four hot mineral pools and Lake Rotorua, here you can further unwind on the five geothermally heated recliners set in the stunning backdrop of New Zealand’s lush and natural greenery.

A large indoor relaxation lounge also overlooks Lake Rotorua, whereas a Lake Spa guest, you are welcome to move from the pools to the lounge once dried off and return to bathe in the Lake Spa pools as you wish. The Lake Spa is a unique thermal pool
environment, where the atmosphere changes from day to night, and from winter steam to summer sparkle.

Room type: We can arrange for you depending on your requirements.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg is: 220 kms / 137 miles : 3.4 hours.

This drive will take you through the thermal region just south of Rotorua. Home to a plethora of unique geothermal attractions including boiling mud pits, natural hot springs and steaming geysers, this area is a must do before you move on to Napier.

Notable attractions are Wai-O-Tapu, Waimangu and Craters of the Moon.

Continue on to Taupo and marvel at the lake – a giant crater formed following a volcanic
eruption in the year 180 CE. As you approach the city, be sure to stop at Huka Falls to view the spectacular sight of hundreds of cubic metres of water spilling every second down the narrow 11 metre drop.For an extra thrill take a jet-boat ride to the base of the falls.

Leaving Taupo, follow the road as it climbs the rugged Ahimanawa Range before descending back down the Pacific Coast to art deco Napier.

Twilight Odyssey Progressive Wine and Dinner Tour begins at 17:30(5:30pm)

Your Twilight Odyssey experience continues to approximately 23:30 and we arrange for you to return to your chosen accommodation.

Take a scenic drive through the vineyards as you learn about the region and its wines. Enjoy a full interactive wine tasting alongside gourmet platters at Vidal. Take in the breathtaking panoramic views from Te Mata Peak while enjoying a glass of bubbles as the sun sets from 399m above sea level (overlooking the glimmering lights of the Twin Cities in winter).

We includes Sightseeing of the region with Fully Guided Commentary in Chinese language, Progressive Three Course Meal at NZs Top Winery Restaurant, Wine Tasting, Champagne, Wine with Dinner, Dessert Wine, Tea and Coffee.

The rolling countryside of the Hawke’s Bay leads you into some of New Zealand’s richest farmland, located around the Manawatu region.

Passing along the Manawatu Gorge the Wairarapa welcomes you. Masterton is home to the golden shears sheep shearing competition, while just further south Greytown boasts the largest concentration of historic wooden buildings in the country.

Nearby Martinborough is home to dozens of boutique wineries. The route takes you over the Rimutaka Range and along the magnificent natural harbour that the capital city of Wellington sits upon.

Zealandia Wildlife Sanctuary Night Tour.
Please wear warm clothing and comfortable walking shoes – tours proceed rain or shine!

Taking a night tour of Zealandia wildlife eco-sanctuary is an unforgettable experience and one that comes highly recommended. A conservation success and safe haven for some of New Zealand’s rarest native animals, Zealandia is home to many remarkable species of
birds, reptiles and insects living wild within a beautiful 225 hectare (one square mile) valley – just 10 minutes from the central city.

Your tour begins with an interactive exhibition before you walk through the gates of Zealandia predator-exclusion fence into the sanctuary. Our host will then lead you on a torch-light walk through the native New Zealand bush. Possible sights include Kiwi foraging on the forest floor, tuatara hunting for food, glowworms shining, tiny Maud Island frogs in their enclosure, pateke (brown teal) ducks feeding at night and kaka (parrots) coming in to roost.

Zealandia is one of the best places to see kiwi in the wild. Over 100 of these nocturnal birds live freely in their natural environment inside the safety of the sanctuary valley – so your chances of seeing one is very good.

We will ensure you have the nicest accommodation as per your requirements.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg is: 322 kms / 200 miles : 4.1 hours

Wellington, home to New Zealand’s centre of government has a largely cosmopolitan feel. Often referred to as ‘mini-Melbourne’, this (self described) windy city is a melting pot of art, culture, food and fashion. Quirky laneway bars, underground art shows, and hipster eateries make up its inner city vibe, while a host of sandy beaches outside the urban bustle bring a cheerful holiday feel.

Head to Te Papa Museum for a history lesson and a ticket to one of its many international exhibitions or jump aboard the Wellington Cable Car at Lambton Quay – the only running funicular railway in the country.

For those with an eye for boutique fashion wander through Cuba St to
sample some of the city’s best vintage stores. Break for coffee at a hipster cafe and be sure to snap a pic outside the ‘Beehive,’ New Zealand’s parliamentary debate chamber.

Go behind the scenes at Weta Workshop, the Oscar Award Winning design studio behind Lord Of The Rings, The Hobbit, and Avatar. We recommend a 45 minute guided tour through both the Workshop and Weta Cave.

Visit The Weta Cave, a mini-museum filled with props, characters and displays from well known movies including Avatar, The Hobbit and
Lord of the Rings. Hear stories of how these figures were brought to life and learn about the artists who created them. Watch behind-the scenes interviews from Weta co-founders Sir Peter Jackson, Richard Taylor, Tania Rodger and Jamie Selkirk – and gain insight into the creativity and imagination that comes with crafting the art of Weta.
You’ll also take a guided tour through the inner workings of Weta Workshop and learn about its processes and design elements. Please keep in mind that many of the projects Weta Workshop has been involved in contain graphic scenes and special effects that may not be suitable for everyone.

If you’re a foodie at heart, a two hour round trip to Martinborough is a must do. Take your time as you wind through spectacular wine country, and be sure to stop in at Martinborough Wines or Ata Rangi Martinborough.

For a educational day out, learn about New Zealand’s native
species at Zealandia – the world’s first fully fenced eco-sanctuary and home to over 40 types of endangered and native birds. Finally before you collapse in bed, search metro eats for some gourmet dinner inspiration.

The 92 km journey between Wellington and Picton takes around 3 hours and has been described as ‘one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world’.

Leaving Wellington Harbour you pass many interesting points such as Pencarrow Head on top of which is New Zealand’s oldest lighthouse (1859). Red Rocks is home to a seal colony and Oterangi Bay is the site which recorded the country’s highest ever wind
speed of 268 kph (167 mph).

From the Cook Strait, spectacular views of the Kaikoura Ranges on the South Island can be enjoyed and dolphins and many sea birds are often seen.

Around one hour of the cruise takes you through the Marlborough Sounds – and this region of bush covered mountains, small islands, crystal clear waters and secluded bays is a remarkable photographic opportunity. At the end of Queen Charlotte Sound the cruise comes to an end in the picturesque town of Picton.

When you’re not out on the deck enjoying the amazing views, you can retreat to the exclusive Premium Plus lounge which is the most comfortable and relaxing way to travel across the Cook Strait. You’ll enjoy complimentary beverages, light snacks, lunch or breakfast, internet access, magazines and newspapers and the most comfortable seating, so you can sit back and enjoy the journey.

The it is Picton to Kaikoura.

From Picton head south on State Highway One towards Blenheim, and the wine producing region of Marlborough. Ideally located to enjoy an afternoon sampling the local produce, stop for a wine tour over the dry hills of the Marlborough ranges you head towards one of the most spectacular coastlines of the South Island, the Kaikoura Coast.

The road hugs the shore for around 50 kilometres and offers many chances to view the native wildlife such as seabirds and New Zealand fur seals. To the east is the Pacific Ocean and to the west you’ll follow alongside the Kaikoura Ranges before arriving into the bustling Kaikoura Township.If you have time, we recommend stopping for a encounter with some of the local wildlife. Whale Watch Kaikoura is New Zealand’s only marine-based whale watching company offering visitors the chance to see the Giant Sperm Whale at all times of the year. Sperm Whales can be seen here year-round and depending on the season you may also see migrating Humpback Whales, Pilot Whales, Blue Whales and Southern Right Whales.

Enjoy your premium accommodation we have organised.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg is: 157 kms / 98 miles : 2.1 hours

New Zealand’s only marine based whale watching company, we offer visitors a once-in-a-lifetime up close encounter with the giant sperm Whale.

You are also likely to encounter New Zealand fur seals, dusky dolphins and albatross. Depending on the season you may also see pilot, blue and southern right whales as well as migrating humpbacks. Often orcas can be spotted here and the world’s smallest dolphin, the Hectors, is sometimes seen.

You’ll be taken out in modern catamarans specifically designed for whale watching – featuring large passenger cabins and outside viewing decks.

Then it after lunch Kaikoura to Christchurch continuing down the coast before heading inland through the North Canterbury wine region – the Waipara Valley.

As you drive through this area you’ll be greeted by one of New Zealand’s most notorious animals, the sheep.

If you’ve time on your hands we recommend taking a detour to Hanmer Springs for relaxing dip in its thermal pools.

Arriving into Christchurch you’ll see a new and improved city, steadily rising from the ruins of the 2011 earthquake.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg is: 178 kms / 111 miles : 2.5 hours

Today you’ll drive through the heart of the South Island, crossing the vast Canterbury Plains.

Catch your breath in Geraldine before continuing into through Fairlie.

Ascending Burkes pass you’ll come to the picturesque lakeside town of Tekapo.

Follow the road and take in the view of Aoraki Mt Cook (New Zealand’s tallest mountain) from the shores of Lake Pukaki, known for its glacier fed turquoise blue
colour.

Continue along the lake to your final destination Mt Cook Village. Choose to view the Mt Cook National Park by a ski plane, or land on one of the glaciers in a helicopter.

Find your sense of adventure and Kayak on a glacial lake or test your legs on one of the many walking tracks in and around the village.

Before leaving, a visit to the Sir Edmund Hillary Centre is a must do. Lake Tekapo is New Zealand’s highest lake and it’s turquoise colour astounds visitors. The unusual colour of the water comes from fine rock particles suspended in the glacier fed waters reflecting the light.

One of the most popular – and most photographed – landmarks in the region is
the Church of the Good Shepherd. This iconic stone building was dedicated in 1935 and utilises part of the wood from the demolished Tekapo bridge.

Nearby a statue of a Bronze Sheepdog pays tribute to the strong contribution these animals have made to the farming
community.

West of Lake Tekapo is Mt John, and it’s here you will find the Canterbury University Observatory.

Driving to the summit of this mountain is well worth the soaring views you’ll get from the top.

Drive a little further towards Lake Alexandrina, a wildlife reserve
home to many birds.

No motorised craft are allowed on the water, making for a very peaceful visit. For a different view of this stunning landscape, catch a scenic flight over Mt Cook National Park and the West Coast Glaciers – Fox and Franz Josef.

Just a 1-1.5 hour drive from Tekapo, Mt. Cook National Park is a rugged and beautiful environment encompassing 19 peaks, the tallest of them being Aoraki Mt Cook
– New Zealand’s highest mountain. Standing 3754 metres tall the Mt Cook can be seen from the southern end of Lake Pukaki.

For those wanting a unique experience, catch a ski plane over the park, and land on the 15 kilometre long Tasman glacier.

Stretch your legs on on of the many short walks around the area, and relax over dinner in the Mt Cook Village.

Be sure to stop in at the new Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, showcasing the region’s contribution to pioneering the sport of mountain climbing.

Big Sky Stargazing – Mount Cook is far from the city lights and therefore has some of the darkest skies in New Zealand – perfect for viewing the night sky!

Their fully trained guides are delighted to show you the beautiful southern night sky using the naked eye, state of the art astronomy telescopes and binoculars at the outdoor viewing platform or if the weather is not favourable then ‘live’ under the high definition digital dome planetarium.

Unleash your imagination as you discover the night sky including the Southern Cross, seasonal ecliptic objects, planets, star clusters, moons, distant galaxies and even our very own galaxy, the spectacular Milky Way!

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg is: 350 kms / 217 miles : 4.1 hours

Leaving the alpine region of Mount Cook, you’ll travel through the lakeside town of Twizel, then a little further to Omarama – the gliding capital of New Zealand.

Continue on over the Lindis Pass, one of New Zealand’s highest roads with a summit of 971 metres. Arrive in the quaint village of Tarras, then continue on a short way to the historic Bendigo Reserve, one of Otago’s original gold mining settlements.

Then we arrive to Cromwell, and keep going through the sheer cliffs of the Kawarau Gorge towards the Gibbston Valley, one of New Zealand’s premier wine growing regions.

See the historic Kawarau Bridge where you can bungy jump or relax and watch others
take the plunge. Approaching Queenstown, the Remarkables mountain range comes into view as we arrive into the adventure capital of New Zealand.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg is: 257 kms / 159 miles : 3.0 hours

Although celebrated as New Zealand’s ‘adventure capital’ Queenstown offers far more than a fast paced action-packed holiday.

Settled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu beneath a soaring panorama of the Remarkables Mountain Range, this alpine town is surrounded by a plethora of historic, gastronomic and scenic wonders.Follow a trail of vines through Gibbston Valley as you sample the region’s best wine.

We recommend stopping at the Chard Farm cellar door, visiting the architecturally award winning Peregrine vineyard or taking a cellar cave tour at Gibbston Valley Winery.

Cruise to Walter Peak station for dinner on board a 100 year old steamship – the TSS
Earnslaw.

While you’re there, a farm tour is a must do for those not familiar with rural living.Take some time to wander the waterfront and grab lunch at one of the many amazing cafes and restaurants on offer.

Try Vudu’s Pantry and larder or for a holiday treat go to Michelin star chef Josh Emett’s ‘Rata.

Check out nearby historic Arrowtown and enhance your experience with a four wheel drive trip to Macetown – a disused gold mining settlement built in the 1800’s.

Take a leisurely lakeside stroll or ride the gondola for breathtaking
views.

Venture further afield into the Fiordland National Park or head over the Crown Range to Wanaka.

Drive through Lord Of The Rings country or for the really fanatic, jump aboard one of many dedicated LOTR tours. After all of that – if you do really want the adrenaline
rush Queenstown is known for, take your pick from the Shotover Jet, Nevis Bungy, Canyon Swing, Zipline, Luge or White Water Rafting.

Dart River Wilderness Jet – An hour and a half of thrilling high-speed wilderness jet boating skimming across the clear waters of the Dart River into the Te
Waipounamu World Heritage Area. Hear about flora, fauna and history on a 30-minute rolling forest walk with your friendly guide. On a
backroad tour of Paradise immerse yourself in scenes and backdrops from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies.

Learn about the Pounamu (Greenstone) that made the Dart River a key trading route for early Māori. Tales of early settlers who carved rich farms from the rugged landscape.

Or

Appellation Boutique Wine Tour – Go off-the-beaten-track with this unique Central Otago wine tour. Taste wines at four of the best vineyards in the Gibbston, Bannockburn
and Cromwell regions. The wineries you’ll visit are selected from the following: Peregrine, Chard Farm, Carrick, Mt Difficulty, Felton Road,
Akarua and Olssens vineyards. We also include a delightful gourmet platter lunch at the award-winning Carrick Winery Restaurant.

Departing Queenstown, you’ll go through picturesque valleys, dramatic gorges and rolling vine-covered hills. See the Otago Goldfields, Historic Old Cromwell Town and Lake Dunstan and the Kawarau Gorge.

Or

Hop aboard the Skyline Gondola – the steepest cable car lift in the Southern hemisphere and take in the awe-inspiring views of this spectacular landscape. Sit back and relax as you enjoy panoramic views of The Remarkables, Walter Peak, Cecil Peak and Coronet Peak -one of Queenstown’s Ski fields.

Come with us on an extended two hour Nature Cruise along the full length of the
fiord.

On board a luxury glass-roofed coach in Queenstown, you will enjoy a relaxing trip along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and through the rolling countryside to Te Anau. The coach driver provides an informative commentary. After a morning tea break in Te Anau, where you have the option of purchasing refreshments, the coach continues along the spectacular Milford Road. There is time for photo stops and short walks along the way. On reaching Milford Sound, you board the Milford Mariner for a leisurely extended cruise of the fiord.

The cruise provides excellent viewing opportunities and plenty of time is available to enjoy waterfalls, rain forest, mountains and wildlife with extensive commentary.

From Queenstown we will take you across the Crown Range – the highest sealed road in New Zealand – to arrive in the Alpine town of Wanaka, gateway to Mt Aspiring National Park.

Skirting the shores of both Lake Wanaka and Hawea, you will enter the small town of Makarora. Stop at Blue Pools for a 1 hour return walk through native beech forest to a glacier-fed swimming hole. Continue on through the remote seaside settlement of Haast before heading up the wild West Coast – a 600 km stretch of bush and native rainforest. Fox Glacier welcomes you first, then comes your destination for the night – Franz Josef township.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg is: 350 kms / 217 miles : 4.6 hours

Today you’ll head north through the historic gold mining region of Hokitika. Known for its Greenstone (Pounamu) this seaside town has a rich history dating back to the 1860’s.

Head to the coast and take in the endless sea-views or pick up a souvenir at one of the many craft shops.

Continue on to Greymouth, the largest town on the West Coast and the starting point for the next leg of your journey – the Tranz Alpine Scenic Train.

Considered one of the world’s great train journeys, the TranzAlpine Scenic Train takes you from Greymouth to Christchurch.

You’ll travel across the South Island from the west to the east coast through Arthur’s Pass National Park. From the comfort of your carriage see lush beech forest, deep river valleys and the spectacular peaks of the Southern Alps. Descend to the windswept Canterbury Plains before arriving in the city of Christchurch.

Pō atarau e moea iho nei
E haere ana koe ki pāmamao
Haere rā ka hoki mai anō
Ki i te tau e tangi atu nei.

Now is the hour for me to say goodbye
Soon you’ll be sailing far across the sea
While you’re away oh please remember me
When you return you’ll find me waiting here