DAY 02: Tuesday OCT 24: AUCKLAND SIGHTSEEING (WAIHEKE ISLAND)

Accommodation: SkyCity Hotel – Premium Room
Meals: Full breakfast at the hotel, Platter Lunch per person

Meet your driver in the hotel lobby and transfer to the Downtown Ferry Terminal. Enjoy a leisurely 40-minute ferry ride to Waiheke Island where you will spend the day experiencing a taste of what the island has to offer.

Option to zipline in the morning (approximate cost $50/person) or go to Onetangi beach and Peacock Sky for more wine tasting.

After our platter lunch, time to tour Oneroa village before the final wine tasting at Mudbrick.

Evening at leisure and dinner on your account.

DAY 03: Wednesday OCT 25: AUCKLAND – HAMILTON – ROTORUA

Accommodation: Novotel Rotorua Lakeside Hotel – Lake View Room
Meals: Full breakfast at the hotel, Home cooked buffet lunch at at Cross Hills Farm, Hangi Dinner

Check out of your hotel and meet your driver/guide, you will leave Auckland for your journey to Rotorua via Hamilton and the Waikato region. The first is a guided tour of Hamilton Gardens with an experienced guide who will share their behind-the-scenes knowledge.

From Hamilton, travel south to Otorohanga for lunch at Cross Hills Farm.

Your hosts Fraser and Debbie provide a delicious home-cooked buffet lunch accompanied by local wine. After lunch, we continue to Rotorua, where you will enjoy an orientation tour of the city upon arrival.

Check-in at the hotel. Time at leisure.

Late afternoon transfer to Te Puia where you will discover Te Puia Thermal Reserve with a guided tour of the Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley. At Te Puia, the concerts and cultural performances will not just move you but enable you to “get inside” this fascinating culture. This evening, indulge in a banquet of authentic Maori cuisine, watch the lifting of the hangi, visit the geothermal valley under lights, take part in a traditional welcoming ceremony and relax at your private concert performance. You will be transferred back to your hotel.

DAY 04: Thursday OCT 26: IN ROTORUA

Accommodation: Novotel Rotorua Lakeside Hotel – Lake View Room
Meals: Full breakfast at the hotel, Maori Home Hosted dinner

Enjoy a day of sightseeing around the Rotorua region.

Includes: Redwood Forest Treewalk. Feel the spirit of Rotorua’s iconic Redwood Forest from above and up close to these 120-year-old giants. This suspended 30-minute ecological walk captures the beauty and ambiance of the forest from a bird’s eye perspective.

Includes: A 45-minute guided tour of Ohinemutu, with a local guide.
Ohinemutu Village was the region’s original Ngati Whakaue settlement. The location was chosen for its lakeside setting and the availability of geothermal energy for cooking, bathing, and heating. Before Europeans, Ohinemutu was the main center for the Rotorua Lake region, visitors and food arrived at this bustling settlement before going on to the surrounding villages.

This evening dinner is a Maori Home Hosted dinner.
For over 170 years Te Arawa (confederation of local Māori tribes) has warmly welcomed and hosted people from all over the world. It is a tradition we call “manaakitanga”. A Māori home-hosted dinner gives visitors the opportunity to really connect with the indigenous people of New Zealand. Guests (manuhiri) are greeted into the home of one of our hosts to enjoy some great kiwi cuisine in a relaxed and sociable environment. Each host family provides a unique insight about the people, land, and culture of Rotorua and New Zealand.

DAY 05: Friday OCT 27: ROTORUA – LAKE TAUPO – TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK

Accommodation: Skotel Alpine Resort – View Room
Meals: Full breakfast at the hotel, Picnic lunch while cruising Lake Taupo, 3-course dinner at the hotel restaurant

This morning you will be met by your driver/guide, as you head out of Rotorua and on to the Tongariro National Park, via Lake Taupo.

Includes: National Kiwi Hatchery – The National Kiwi Hatchery is the national leader in kiwi husbandry, egg incubation systems, hatching techniques, and kiwi chick rearing. You’ll get to see kiwi eggs being incubated, the hatching process, and newly hatched kiwi chicks.
Travel south to the stunning and powerful Huka Falls. Continue your journey to the beautiful vistas of Lake Taupo.

Chris Jolly Outdoors – Private charter
In Taupo join your boat for a two-hour chartered cruise of Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s biggest lake. Cruise out to see the stunning Maori rock carvings, only accessible by boat while you enjoy a delicious lunch on board.
Includes: Picnic lunch.

After the cruise, join your coach for the journey to Tongariro National Park. From the snow-capped mountains and dense forests to the dry desert-like tussocks of the Central Plateau, dominated in the background by the three peaks of Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe, and Tongariro.

This evening, enjoy a group dinner with your fellow travelers at your hotel.
Includes 3-course dinner at the hotel restaurant.

DAY 06: Saturday OCT 28: TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK – WELLINGTON

Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel Wellington Oriental Bay
Meals: Full breakfast at the hotel – Superior Harbour View Room

This morning you will be met by your Driver/guide, to begin your journey of the Central Plateau and down to the bottom of the North Island, to New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington.
Upon arrival in Wellington, enjoy a city sightseeing tour with a local guide – approx 3 hours.
Including Courtney Place and the Embassy Theatre, Oriental Parade, Mt Victoria, War Memorial, Parliament, and the Beehive.
Includes: Ride on the Wellington Cable Car and stroll through the Botanical Gardens
Includes: Te Papa – New Zealand’s National Museum – 60-minute highlights tour.
Drop off at the hotel.

DAY 07: Sunday OCT 29: WELLINGTON – QUEENSTOWN

Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Queenstown – Standard Room
Meals: Full breakfast at the hotel

Time at leisure in Wellington.
Mid/late morning (approx 10.45 am) you will be met by your Driver/guide, to travel out to Wellington’s Airport. Farewell the North Island, and begin your journey down to the heart of the South Island, Queenstown.
On arrival in Queenstown, you will be met by your South Island Driver/guide and will be transferred to your Queenstown hotel.
(Air cost Wellington to Queenstown to be included with the air package later on)
The rest of the day is at leisure. Dinner on your own

DAY 08: Monday OCT 30: QUEENSTOWN

Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Queenstown – Standard Room
Meals: Full breakfast at the hotel, 2-course buffet lunch at Gibbston Valley

Morning at leisure
Half-day sightseeing including:
11.30 Depart hotel
12.15 Arrive Gibbston Valley Winery
12.30 Gibbston Valley Wine Cave Tour including wine tasting
13.00 Gibbston Valley – 2-course buffet lunch
14.30 Depart for Queenstown via AJ Hackett Kawarau Bungy Bridge and Arrowtown

OPTIONAL:
AJ Hackett Kawarau Bridge Bungy 43m, Drop off at the hotel.- Not included in cost. Count approximately $130.00 per person

Dinner and the rest of the day on your own.

DAY 09: Tuesday OCT 31: QUEENSTOWN

Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Queenstown – Standard Room
Meals: Full breakfast at the hotel, Buffet Dinner

08.00 Pick up from your hotel by Nomad Safaris.

Includes: Safari of The Scenes Wakatipu Basin Tour
An adventure safari packed with breathtaking scenery, thrilling 4WD action whilst discovering LOTR filming locations. Visit the filming locations of Minas Tirith, Misty Mountains, the Pillars of the Kings (Argonath), Gladden Fields, the Ford of Bruinen and more. Travel an historic gold mining road, following the Arrow River, stop for a refreshing morning or afternoon tea and the opportunity to try your hand at gold panning. Take in the spectacular panoramic views over the Wakatipu Basin.
12.15 Back at hotel
Rest of the afternoon is at leisure.
18.00 Early evening you will be transferred to Skyline Queenstown.
18.45 Includes: Skyline Queenstown – Return Gondola Ride and Farewell Buffet Dinner
Return to the hotel by private coach.

DAY 10: Wednesday NOV 01: DEPART QUEENSTOWN ARRIVE SYDNEY

Accommodation: PARKROYAL Darling Harbour, Sydney
Meals: Full breakfast at the hotel

After breakfast, a private transfer to Queenstown airport for a non-stop flight to Sydney ( price and time TBA early 2023). Arrive at Sydney International Airport. You will be met by a local English Speaking Guide who will accompany you to your vehicle for a private transfer to your Sydney accommodation.
Check in to your hotel and rest of the evening at leisure.
**N.B – Hotel check-in is from 3 pm. Luggage may be stored at the hotel prior to rooms becoming available.

Unwind in the plush comforts of the hotel rooms located in the heart of Sydney in the Darling Harbour area with nearby shopping precincts of the QVB and Pitt Street Mall which offer you a chance to indulge in some retail therapy or take a stroll down to the picturesque Cockle Bay, and enjoy a coffee at one of its quaint cafés or restaurants. For an authentically Aussie cultural immersion, head to the galleries and museums at The Rocks.

DAY 11: Wednesday NOV 02: SYDNEY SIGHTSEEING TOUR

Accommodation: PARKROYAL Darling Harbour, Sydney
Meals: Full breakfast at the hotel, Luncheon cruise by catamaran on Sydney Harbour

After breakfast, join your local Australia Tour Guide for a full day city tour and its surroundings by private vehicle.
Experience the vibrancy of Sydney, one of the world’s most spectacular cities. See the Harbour Bridge, Botanic Gardens and Mrs Macquarie’s Chair for a photo stop of the spectacular harbor.
Your guide will take you on a walk through the historic Rocks area where you will hear the early convict stories, the antics of sailors and rogues while weaving through the narrow alleyways and along charming cobbled lanes and hidden courtyards. Visit a gothic church and see quaint terrace cottages.Continue touring we pass Parliament House, St Mary’s Cathedral, cosmopolitan Kings Cross and trendy Paddington with lace terraced houses. Arrive at the famous Bondi Beach for a stroll along the beachfront. See surfers, famous Aussie lifesavers and Sydney’s most spectacular panoramic viewpoint continue to Sydney Heads lookout at Watsons Bay.
Take a two-hour luncheon cruise by catamaran on Sydney Harbour. You’ll feast on a delicious buffet while cruising Sydney Harbour in a luxury air-conditioned catamaran – an unforgettable dining experience! You’ll see all the sights of Sydney Harbour from the catamaran’s extensive decks, including the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and Fort Denison. The buffet lunch, freshly prepared onboard features hot & cold dishes, a selection of salads, fresh fruit and tea or coffee.
After your lunch cruise, disembark the vessel and join your Tour Manager for a leisurely walk to the Sydney Opera House for a one hour guided tour of the Sydney Opera House.
The Sydney Opera House Tour has been reimagined and we’re excited to take you on a journey to discover the magic beneath the sails. For the first time ever, watch unforgettable moments from past Concert Hall performances, learning about the history and future of this world-famous hall in an immersive digital experience.
Experience the future within a new purpose-built venue that boasts heritage-inspired interiors, and state-of-the-art technology, including 270-degree visuals and surround sound.

Return to your hotel this afternoon for the evening at leisure.

DAY 12: Wednesday NOV 03: SYDNEY AT LEISURE

Accommodation: PARKROYAL Darling Harbour, Sydney
Meals: Full breakfast at the hotel

This day is at leisure in Sydney to relax or participate in optional excursions (pricing available early 2023 as well as sign-up sheets).

OPTIONAL:

1. Full Day Blue Mountains & Wildlife Tour Including lunch.
2. Bridge climb – The experience of a lifetime to climb the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge
3. Sydney Harbour Bridge Bike Ride – You’ve seen it – you may have climbed it – but have you ridden it yet?? Head out over the fantastic Sydney Harbour Bridge, take in its amazing views, and enjoy the peaceful surrounding of Sydney’s North Shore by exploring this interesting area.
4. Jetboating on Sydney Harbour – A 30-minute THRILL or 45-minute EXTREME ride with amazing stunts and wild spins through Sydney Harbour get set for slides, twists, wave riding, power brake stops, and sweeping fishtail!
5. Sailing – Explore Sydney Harbour on our three-hour sailing experience – the best way to see the beautiful bays and the harbor foreshores. Be part of the crew or sit back and relax. Get a taste for sailing whilst seeing the sights all in one go.
6. Full-Day Hunter Valley Winery Tour. (9-10 hour day). Explore Australia’s oldest and best-known wine region. It’s a dynamic and fascinating area that brims with over 150 top-class wineries, 65 indulgent restaurants as well as gourmet produce and boutique breweries.

DAY 13: SATURDAY NOVEMBER 4 SYDNEY TO CAIRNS

Accommodation: Holiday Inn Cairns Harborside Hotel
Meals: Full breakfast at the hotel

This morning, meet your local guide in the hotel lobby before departing your Sydney hotel by private coach for a transfer to Sydney Domestic Airport for your departure flight to Cairns (cost will be added to the air package provided to you early 2023).
On arrival into Cairns Domestic Airport, you’ll be met by a local English Speaking Guide and escorted to your private air-conditioned coach for a transfer to your Cairns hotel.

Located on the Cairns Esplanade overlooking beautiful Trinity Bay, Holiday Inn Cairns Harbourside is a popular retreat for both holidaymakers and business guests. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens and boasting breathtaking ocean and hinterland views, the Holiday Inn Cairns offers 173 stylishly appointed rooms and suites, each with its own private balcony. Guests can also enjoy a range of hotel amenities and services, including Harbourside Bar & Kitchen, swimming pool and spa, 24-hour room service, 24-hour business hub, 24-hour offsite gymnasium, free CBD shuttle, and free wireless internet.

DAY 14: SUNDAY NOVEMBER 05 CAIRNS: FULL DAY GREAT BARRIER REEF CRUISE

Accommodation: Holiday Inn Cairns Harbourside Hotel
Meals: Full breakfast at the hotel, Tropical smorgasbord lunch
Your local guide will greet you this morning in the hotel lobby to accompany you onto your courtesy shuttle for a transfer to Cairns Marina from where you will depart for a full day cruise to the Outer Great Barrier Reef.
The Cay is rich with a myriad of sea life including green sea turtles (which occasionally nest on the cay), mollusks, and invertebrates of all kinds. There are hundreds of species of tropical reef fish including Humphead Maori Wrasse. The reef surrounding the Cay is especially renowned for its abundance of giant clams.
The reef lagoon offers excellent swimming and snorkeling areas, quality snorkeling equipment is provided free of charge and the Marine Biologists on board can introduce you to a whole new world.
A guided snorkeling tour is available (additional cost). Or you can choose to stay dry and explore the stunning reef world one meter underwater from the semi-submersible vessel or an underwater observatory.

Return hotel shuttle transfers and a tropical smorgasbord lunch are included. Dinner and evening on your own.

DAY 15: MONDAY NOVEMBER 06 CAIRNS AT LEISURE + FAREWELL DINNER

Accommodation: Holiday Inn Cairns Harbourside Cairns Hotel
Meals: Full breakfast at the hotel, 3-course farewell dinner at Dundees Waterfront Restaurant

The day is at leisure in Cairns to relax or participate in optional excursions (prices TBA early 2023 as well as sign-up sheets)

OPTIONAL:

1. Full-Day Kuranda Rainforest Tour Including Skyrail, Railway, Wildlife, and Lunch
2. Aboriginal Cultural Park & Crocodile Adventure Including Lunch. Spend the morning being immersed in the world’s oldest living culture the Tjapukai people with interactive activities including didgeridoo playing, boomerang throwing, and spear throwing. Be mesmerized watching a traditional song and dance corroboree in a spectacular outdoor natural rainforest amphitheater. There is time to browse the gallery with authentic Aboriginal artifacts. Your day continues traveling to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures to see crocodiles and local wildlife in their natural environment. Timber boardwalks and pathways will lead you on a journey of discovery through woodlands and rainforests where you will see tropical birds, reptiles, and native fauna. Take a lagoon boat cruise down Hartley’s Lagoon to gain an insight into the behavior of crocodiles and appreciate the role they play in the coastal wetlands of North Queensland. Enjoy a delicious Barbeque lunch. After lunch, there are wildlife presentations on cassowaries and koalas with the rangers/keepers before returning to Cairns in the early evening.

Later this evening, meet your local guide in the hotel lobby before taking a leisurely walk to Dundee’s Waterfront Restaurant for a 3-course farewell dinner.
Dundees on the Waterfront Overlooking Trinity Inlet – the flavors of Australia. There’s nothing like Dundee’s experience with absolute waterfront dining and some of the best food Australia has to offer.After dinner, return to your hotel by foot for the remainder of the evening at leisure.

DAY 16: TUESDAY NOVEMBER 07 DEPART CAIRNS

Enjoy Full Breakfast at the hotel.

This morning, meet your local guide in the hotel lobby before departing by private coach to Cairns airport and onward to New Zealand for your international flight home. (or own arrangements). END OF SERVICES