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20 Day Ultimate New Zealand
Ultimate Coach Tour starting in Auckland and finishing in Christchurch
Countries Visited: New Zealand 
Tour Type: Ultimate
Tour Duration: 20 Days (19 Nights)
From: Auckland to Christchurch
Tour Code: XX
Operator: Kirra
from AU $4,640 pp
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Tour Description

Our 20 Day Ultimate New Zealand coach tour combines all the 'must see' destinations in New Zealand as well as locations and activities not normally included in a touring itinerary. Best suited to those wanting to see more of New Zealand, special activities include sailing on Auckland Harbour, a full day Kiwi Dundee Coromandel Peninsula guided tour, a visit to the arts city of Nelson, a night in the picturesque town of Wanaka including a lake cruise or jet boat ride.

You will have free time in Wellington, Nelson, Franz Josef Glacier, Queenstown and Dunedin so you can relax or choose one of the many different and diverse optional excursions available. An exclusive option to our Ultimate tours is the opportunity to do the 3 day Hollyford Track Guided Walk - a superb option to get into the remote Hollyford Valley.

Tour Highlights:

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Day
1
Arrive Auckland
Welcome to New Zealand and Auckland, New Zealand's City of Sails. You will be met with a smile and transferred to your hotel by a tour representative. As you travel into the city center you will spot Skytower, Auckland's iconic landmark. Your accommodation this evening is less than half a block from this landmark. Stay: Rydges Hotel
Day
2
Auckland – Whangamata
A tour of Auckland, to the summit of Skytower, at 328 metres the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere, the downtown city area and waterfront drive, then experience the thrill of sailing aboard a 15m yacht on Auckland Harbour and visiting the Maritime Museum, all before driving to the Coromandel Peninsula. Stay: Breakers Motel (2 nights)
Day
3
Coromandel Peninsula
A day of fun and entertainment with Kiwi Dundee Adventures. Explore regenerating Kauri forest and lush fern groves, the old roads to Puketui an 1890’s gold mining town and visit a gold mine studded with glow-worms. Walk on isolated beaches and if conditions permit, a dip in the springs at Hotwater Beach.
Day
4
Whangamata – Rotorua
On to Rotorua and the Agrodome to see New Zealand’s various sheep breeds and a shearing demonstration. Stroll through Rainbow Springs Park to see Rainbow and Brown Trout plus native birds and animals including the Kiwi. Take the spectacular Skyline Skyride for superb views over the city, lake and mountains and try a Luge ride with our compliments. Stroll through Rainbow Springs Park to see Rainbow and Brown Trout plus native birds and animals including the Kiwi. Visit Te Puia, the Maori Arts and Crafts Centre and Thermal Reserve with its boiling mud, silica terraces and Pohutu Geyser. This evening enjoy a Maori Hangi (meal), a selection of traditionally prepared meats and vegetables plus more conventional dishes, all followed by a concert featuring Maori songs, chants and the stirring haka (entire group). Stay: Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua
Day
5
Rotorua – Turangi
We head south to the Wairakei Geothermal Valley, visiting the powerful Huka Falls before
arriving at Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake. Stay: Bridge Lodge
Day
6
Turangi – Wellington
As you travel south the volcanic mountains– Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe dominate the view. Stop for lunch at Pukaha, Mt Bruce for a chance to get up close with some of New Zealand’s endangered species. Continuing south you head over the Rimutaka’s before reaching the capital city Wellington. Stay: Bay Plaza Hotel
Day
7
Wellington – Blenheim – Nelson
Join the Interislander Ferry for the scenic cruise to Picton, enjoy spectacular views of Wellington and the sheltered waters of Queen Charlotte Sound, then on to Montana Winery for a tasting and winery tour. From this renowned wine region it’s a fascinating drive to Nelson noted for its arts and crafts. Stay: Leisure Lodge (2 nights)
Day
8
Nelson or Abel Tasman National Park
Today is at your leisure, take the time to explore the shops and art galleries which make Nelson famous. If you would like to explore a little more your Coach Captain will happily assist with arranging activities for you. We recommend an optional day tour to the Abel Tasman National Park.
  Abel Tasman Day Trip Option
The Abel Tasman National Park is an amazing part of New Zealand. With an abundance of wildlife and pristine waters you can choose from many walking options. You board a launch that takes you along the coastline, passing icons such as split apple rock and a possible local seal or two. Additional cost AU $120 per person
Day
9
Nelson – Greymouth
Lush farmlands then forest covered ranges to the rugged Buller Gorge – a spectacular scenic drive. Visit Westport and the coast near Cape Foulwind, possibly lunch at the award winning Beach House Cafe and south to explore the Pancake rocks at Punakaiki. At Greymouth visit Jade Boulder Gallery to see native jade, mined in remote alpine valleys crafted into fine jewellery. Stay: Hotel Ashley
Day
10
Greymouth – Franz Josef Glacier
Hugging the coastline of the West Coast, as you come closer your view will be dominated by the towering Southern Alps, highlighting your journey to Franz Josef. Stay: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef
Day
11
Franz Josef – Wanaka
Follow the rugged coastline then inland across the Alps and the Haast Pass to the impressive bushlands of the Aspiring National Park. On arrival in Wanaka you’ll have a choice of activities between a launch cruise that will take you across the lake to Stevensons Island, a nature reserve, then an informative bush walk with refreshments.
Alternatively if adrenalin is what you are after then experience an exhilarating jet boat ride along the Clutha River.. Stay: Grand Mercure Oakridge Resort
Day
12
Wanaka – Queenstown
Drive through a picturesque region that has a fascinating history of early settlement and goldmining for a late morning arrival into the ever-popular resort of Queenstown. Dinner tonight is at the spectacular Skyline Restaurant (entire group). Stay: Rydges Hotel (3 nights)
  3 Day Hollyford Track Walk Option
This 3 day/2 night walk is a spectacular journey, which takes in diverse scenery from dense forest to untouched beaches. The highlights are the walking back in time through beech forests, crossing Fiordlands longest swing bridge, jet boating along the Hollyford River before finishing with a scenic flight into Milford Sound to rejoin your group on Day 15. Additional cost AU $1,330 per person, twin share. Read More>
Day
13
to
14
Queenstown At Leisure
The next two days are at your leisure whilst in the adventure capital. You can either sit back, relax or your Coach Captain is available to assist with any optional activities you would like to do. (B/D) (Dinner on Day 16 is not included allowing the opportunity to dine at a restaurant of your choice.)
Day
15
Queenstown – Milford Sound
Follow the lake to Kingston, across fertile farmlands to Fiordland. Visit moody Lake Manapouri then Lake Te Anau. Follow the Eglinton Valley, native forests, lakes, waterfalls and towering mountains. At The Divide collect the Greenstone Trek group and travel through the Hollyford Valley and Homer Tunnel to Milford Sound. Board the Milford Mariner for an overnight cruise – an undoubted highlight. Stay: Milford Mariner
Day
16
Milford Sound – Dunedin
Wake to the sounds of silence in a pristine world with a glimpse every so often of a passing seal or penguin. You return to shore to follow the rugged and remote mountains as they change to lush green countryside as you approach Dunedin, the ‘Edinburgh of the South.’ Tonight prior to dinner you will be treated to a traditional Scottish Haggis Ceremony. Stay: Cargills Hotel (2 nights)
Day
17
Dunedin
A day to enjoy at your leisure with a multitude of optional activities available. A Monarch Wildlife Cruise, Natures Wonders Tour (both featuring penguins, seals and birdlife), the Taieri Gorge Railway, a Citibus Newtons Tour, fascinating Larnach Castle or Tour the Cadbury Factory or Speights Brewery. Have fun!
Day
18
Dunedin – Mt Cook
This morning visit Olveston House, Dunedin’s majestic historic home. Travel north stopping to view the unusual Moeraki Boulders then explore Oamaru. Follow the Waitaki Valley, passing the hydro lakes until you reach Mt Cook National Park and village, amidst New Zealand’s highest mountains. This afternoon visit the Tasman Glacier where you will be amazed by the floating icebergs in the nearby lake. Stay: Hermitage Hotel
Day
19
Mt Cook – Christchurch
Visiting Lake Tekapo, view the Church of the Good Shepherd and Collie Dog memorial. Continue onto Burkes Pass to the Canterbury Plains and Christchurch for a city and surrounds tour. Stay: Pavilions Hotel
Day
20
Depart Christchurch
Today is goodbye to all your new found friends before you make your homeward journey. You will be transferred to Christchurch International Airport to join your flight home.

Tour Prices

Tour prices are per person. Please request a quote for tour availability.

EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL OFFER*

2012 Season Sale! Save up to $390 per couple. Exclusive to Global Journeys. Deposit this month only to qualify! Subject to availability at the time of booking.

START DATE END DATE BROCHURE
(Twin Share)
BROCHURE
(Single)
OUR
SAVINGS
OUR
PRICE
05 Nov 2012 24 Nov 2012 AU $4,835 AU $6,455 Save $195 AU $4,640
19 Nov 2012 08 Dec 2012 AU $4,835 AU $6,455 Save $195 AU $4,640
17 Dec 2012 05 Jan 2013 AU $4,835 AU $6,455 Save $195 AU $4,640
07 Jan 2013 26 Jan 2013 AU $4,835 AU $6,455 Save $195 AU $4,640
21 Jan 2013 09 Feb 2013 AU $4,835 AU $6,455 Save $195 AU $4,640
28 Jan 2013 16 Feb 2013 AU $4,835 AU $6,455 Save $195 AU $4,640
04 Feb 2013 23 Feb 2013 AU $4,835 AU $6,455 Save $195 AU $4,640
11 Feb 2013 02 Mar 2013 AU $4,835 AU $6,455 Save $195 AU $4,640
18 Feb 2013 09 Mar 2013 AU $4,835 AU $6,455 Save $195 AU $4,640
04 Mar 2013 23 Mar 2013 AU $4,835 AU $6,455 Save $195 AU $4,640
11 Mar 2013 30 Mar 2013 AU $4,835 AU $6,455 Save $195 AU $4,640
25 Mar 2013 13 Apr 2013 AU $4,835 AU $6,455 Save $195 AU $4,640

Note: The majority of departures above will proceed or are guaranteed to depart. We will outline the status of your departure date in your quote along with all applicable discounts and specials.

General Information

The information below relates to this itinerary only.

Tour Operator: Kirra Tours

Kirra ToursSee the best of New Zealand on a Kirra Tours escorted coach touring holiday. This is truly the very best way for you to see and enjoy all the wonderful scenery and activities New Zealand has to offer and we guarantee the value is unequalled. Choose from a wide range of coach tour itineraries showcasing the finest attractions and experiences that New Zealand has to offer.




Frequently Asked Questions

Will the coach be comfortable and modern?

All our touring coaches are ultra modern, superbly appointed and fully air-conditioned to ensure comfortable travel during the warmer summer months and heated to provide extra warmth during cooler periods. Large vista windows, armchair style seating, ample leg room, the latest in stereo and public address systems and air bag suspension all combine to ensure your travelling comfort. In addition, our vehicles are fastidiously maintained in our partner companies own workshop to ensure you have a safe and troublefree journey. Kirra Holidays Coach Captains are all allocated their own vehicles so take great pride in ensuring they are always superbly presented.

What documentation will I receive?

Once your tour is fully paid for, we will email your tour itinerary to you so you that have a copy on hand including your arrival instructions. This generally happens around 30-40 days out from your tour start date. On arrival in New Zealand you'll be met at the airport and you'll then receive a receive your travel kit including travel bag, ticket wallet, maps and itinerary.

What meals will be served on tour?

A typical breakfast will consist of a choice of cooked dishes such as bacon, eggs, sausages etc with tea/coffee toast and preserves. With the healthy eater in mind, breakfast also includes, fruit juices, cereals, fruit and often yogurt. A typical dinner will either be table service with selections from a 3 course menu or buffet style, offering an extensive choice to well satisfy both the discerning diner and largest appetite.

All tours, include the Maori Hangi and Concert in Rotorua and in Queenstown, either the “Taste of New Zealand” carvery dinner at the Skyline Restaurant or Earnslaw cruise with dinner in the "Colonel's Homestead Dinner" at Walter Peak high country sheep station.

Who travels on Kirra tours?

Your travelling companions are likely to be from any parts of the globe. Whilst predominantly Australian, they are likely to also be from the UK, Western Europe, the USA, Canada and many New Zealanders as well. Each year Kirra Tours identifies guests from between 35 and 40 countries which further enhance everyone's holiday experience and the establishment of friendships around the world.

How many other people will I be travelling with?

Depending on the tour you choose and the time of year you are travelling our group sizes can vary from fewer than 21 people up to 48 people, so there is a great opportunity to mingle and make new friends.

Do I need to tip?

Tipping is not normally expected in New Zealand. If you have been given exceptional service, tipping is certainly acceptable and the amount discretionary. Some restaurants may add a surcharge for weekends and/or public holidays, which will most likely be displayed on their menu.

What options do I have if I am travelling alone?

If you wish to share with another tour member you can advise Global Journeys at the time of booking. Kirra Tours believe that traveling solo doesn't have to cost you more. We will try to match you with someone of the same sex in order to avoid having to pay the single supplement. If we are not able to provide a suitable roommate, we will provide a single room at no extra cost.

Can I travel with children on Kirra tours?

Yes, Kirra will take care of the whole family when travelling with children 2-15 years of age.There is a reduction in the tour price depending on how many adults are travelling. We will outline the costs in your quote.

Where can I find out more information on Kirra?

We have a dedicated section on our website providing more detailed information on Kirra including more FAQ's on what you need to know before, during and after your travel; as well as information on what to expect on tour, and a comprehensive search facility to enable you to easily find more of their tours. Read more> (NB: This link will take you away from this tour itinerary page).


Airport Transfer Information

Free Airport Transfers

Kirra offers a hotel or airport transfer at the start and end of your tour, or in-conjunction with pre or post accommodation booked with Global Journeys & Kirra. All flight information must be given to Global Journeys at least 6 weeks prior to departure so that transfers can be booked. If you book your own pre or post accommodation then transfers cannot be included.


Terms & Conditions:

Yep, all the boring small print! We still recommend you read it all though, as no one likes surprises. Click here to read them now - they will open in a new window, or print them off to read over later with a cup of coffee!

 

Kirby O'Connor

Your Tour Consultant Will Be:

Kirby O'Connor
Aussie & Kiwi Specialist
Email: kirby@globaljourneys.com
Expertise: Australian & New Zealand Touring Specialist
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Hot Water BeachRotoruaAbel Tasman National ParkMilford SoundMt CookDunedin Railway Station
 
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