New Zealand Explorer

From $3,349 (Nov - April)
From $3,575 (May - Sept)
Hotels and Unique B&Bs (Land package only)

Rates may increase Dec 20-Jan 5 based on availability

2010 Dates: Departs Auckland every Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday year round.

This is our most popular New Zealand itinerary. The trip is designed with the independent traveler in mind. All arrangements are pre planned so you can enjoy exploring and joining adventure activities throughout the country.

Day 1 : Auckland
Upon arrival you will be met and transported you to your hotel. Your first day is spent in the "City of Sails," where you embark on a hands-on sailing experience aboard a yacht in Waitemata Harbor. Make sure to take a trip up the Sky Tower for a panoramic view of beautiful Auckland.

Day 2 : Waitomo Cave Tubing
Pick up your car rental and travel to Waitomo from Auckland this morning for your cave tubing adventure. Gear up in wetsuit & hardhats with custom-built electric light for this afternoon's cave tubing adventure. You'll be in the company of glowworms as you navigate the region's cave system. Tonight settle in at your B&B for some real Kiwi hospitality.

Day 3 : Waitomo to Rotorua
The morning is at your leisure to choose from horse riding local bush trails to thrilling caving adventures such as the Lost World Tandem Abseil or Haggis Honking Holes (only in New Zealand), an abseil through underground waterfalls! Later today you travel to Rotorua for a fun evening of Maori song, dance, dinner & story telling.

Day 4 : Rotorua
Your choice of adventure today; 4WD hiking tour, white water rafting the class V Kaituna River, lake kayaking or mountain biking. You have part of the afternoon free to explore the steaming geysers of this fascinating area. Tonight enjoy a visit to the Polynesian Spa Thermal Pools.

Day 5 : Rotorua to Nelson
Today you fly south to sunny Nelson. Upon arrival you will be met and transer to your well located B&B. (Local air not included). Free day to rest or to enjoy the many available adventures.

Days 6-8 : Abel Tasman National Park
Sub-tropical Abel Tasman includes thousands of hectares of native forest, beaches of golden sand, clear coastal waters and the best climate in the country! For the next 3 days you will sea kayak and hike this spectacular region.

Day 9 : Punakaiki "Pancake" Rocks
Pick up your car rental and head to Punakaiki on the West Coast for a short walk beneath a canopy of nikau palms and tree ferns to view the unique "pancake" rock formations and explosive blowholes. Optional afternoon adventures include horseback riding, river canoeing, a river canyon walk, or a dolphin snorkel/swim.

Days 10-11 : Fox Glacier
Transfer to Fox Glacier, which is fed by the snows of the Mount Cook National Park and is one of the most accessible glaciers in New Zealand. Next day, board a helicopter to fly over pinnacles and crevasses and land on the upper levels of the glacier. With a qualified alpine guide, spend 2.5 hours exploring the glacier's awesome ice formations.

Day 12 : Fox Glacier to Queenstown
Nestled in the shores of Lake Wakatipu, your hotel provides the perfect location for exploring.

Days 13-14 : Queenstown
Queenstown is a breathtaking and beautiful playground for all seasons. Bungy jumping, jet boating, rafting, kayaking, hiking and exploring the Milford Sound can all be enjoyed. Take in local cafes and night spots before saying "goodbye" to New Zealand.

Included:

• Personal meet & greet on arrival in New Zealand with private transfer to accommodation
• 13 nights accommodation in nominated Motels, Hotels or B&Bs
• Daily breakfast at hotels and B&Bs (room only at Motels)
• Rental of Compact Auto Rental Car for 9 days (includes unlimited miles and comprehensive insurance) OR
• Intercity travel by scheduled public bus or sightseeing tour coach
• Sailing on Auckland Harbour
• Black Water Rafting at Waitomo
• Maori Concert & Hangi Dinner
• Choice of either, White Water Rafting, 4WD excursion or guided Mountain Biking in Rotorua
• Personal meet & greet on arrival in Nelson with private transfer to accommodation
• 3 day/2 night guided sea kayaking excursion (includes all meals and accommodation in Abel Tasman National Park)
• Guided Fox Glacier ‘Heli-Hike’
• 24 hour in-country emergency assistance
• New Zealand taxes

• Flights to/from and within New Zealand
• Accommodation, sightseeing and meals other than those expressly mentioned as included
• Optional extras with Rental Car hire including petrol bond/security deposit, rental of GPS unit or insurance deductible
• Items of a personal nature such as telephone calls, internet access, laundry etc.

*Note: $2,535/$2,745 pricing includes Budget style motels, not Hotel or Bed & Breakfast style accommodations as described in the itinerary above. Transportation via scheduled coach can also be arranged for those not wanted to self drive. All prices above, per person and based on double occupancy. Prices subject to change based on current exchange rates with the New Zealand dollar. Please contact us for single rates.