Tour the Beauty of New Zealand [ST-NZD14] - About New Zealand
 
 
15 Days: Tour the Beauty of New Zealand [ST-NZD14]
Starting at
$5,298
Per Person
View Details
Highlights & Inclusions
  • Accommodation - Paihia (3 Nights), Auckland (1), Rotorua (1), Wellington (2), Christchurch (1), Franz Josef (1), Queenstown (4)
  • US Domestic Flights - Not included (as per your own arrangements)
  • International Flights - Los Angeles to Auckland (Return) (Not included, but can be included upon request)
  • New Zealand Domestic Flights - Rotorua to Wellington, Wellington to Christchurch, Queenstown to Auckland
  • Day Tours - Paihia: Dune Rider - Cape Reinga via 90 Mile Beach, Cruise & Discover the Bay of Islands; Auckland: Deluxe Coach to Rotorua via Waitomo & Hobbiton; Rotorua: Te Po, Indigenous Evening Experience; Wellington: City Tour and Ship Ride; Queenstown: Gondola Ride, Doubtful Sound, Safari of the Scenes Lord of the Rings Tour
  • Overnight Tour - Christchurch: Glacier Express to Queenstown via Franz
  • Shuttle Transfers - Rotorua Accommodation to Airport, Wellington Airport to Accommodation (Return), Christchurch Airport to Accommodation, Queenstown Accommodation to Airport
  • Car Rental - 3 Days Car Rental, Pick up and drop off in Auckland
  • Rental Car (Base rate only) does not include taxes, insurance, fuel levies, drop off fees, or environmental fees.
  • All Other Day Tours are Optional and not included
  • Visa only required for some South Pacific countries; $15 visa fee per person where applicable.
  • F.I.T. (Free & Independent Travel, i.e. this is not an Organized Group Tour)
  • All Taxes and Fuel Levies (Except where noted)
  • Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.
Itinerary Details
(Day 1) - International Flight, Los Angeles to Auckland (Check quote for inclusion)

Shortly after departing Los Angeles you will be served dinner and you will be given breakfast before landing in Auckland.

Relax, watch some movies, and try to get some sleep!

Please confirm with the airline at check-in that they have all your Frequent Flyer information on record (if applicable).

(Days 2 to 5) - 3 Days Car Rental

Discover New Zealand as you travel by rental car for three days.

Take the opportunity to explore parts of New Zealand in and around your vacation town. Please bring a valid American driver’s license with you and be aware that in New Zealand people drive on the left hand side of the road.

*Upgrade available to include GPS navigation system (additional cost).

Base rate only paid by About Australia. Insurance, Premium Location Surcharge, Fuel and Fees to driver’s credit card.

(Day 2) - Self-Drive from Auckland to the Bay of Islands

Drive time: approximately 3.5 hours.

Depart Auckland for Bay of Islands/Russell via Waipu, Whangarei, and Kawakawa.

Activity suggestions: Explore historic Waipu; Visit Whangarei Town Basin for specialty shops, cafes, restaurants, Claphams Clocks Museum, and art studios. Stop at Kawakawa, known as “Train town” because the Bay of Islands Vintage Railway runs down the middle of its main street. The town is also famous for its Hundertwasser toilet block, designed by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser.

(Days 2 to 5) - 3 Nights Accommodation in Paihia

Travel to your accommodation in Paihia, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 3 nights.

This welcoming Bay of Islands hotel commands a superb waterfront location in the heart of the Bay of Islands, offering uninterrupted bay views surrounded by 60 acres of subtropical gardens as part of the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds. With 180 guest rooms including four suites, the hotel provides individual patio or balcony from which to enjoy the bay, estuary or garden views while the rooms offer a serene escape with designs inspired by nature. Onsite facilities include tennis court, spectacular free form lagoon style swimming pool, mountain bike hire and courtesy shuttle to downtown Paihia.

The Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands is the perfect base when you want to play scenic golf courses, participate in some of the best big game fishing in the world, experience the wonder of the local native bush walks or to simply relax in a picturesque location. Take it easy afterwards in the massage studio, and end your day with a long cool drink in the bar.

(Day 3) - Full Day Tour, Dune Rider - Cape Reinga via 90 Mile Beach

A full day tour in a unique Dune Rider vehicle.

Take a full day tour in the unique Dune Rider vehicle. Let the drivers immerse you in the culture and history of the area, while taking in the amazing scenery. This is arguably the best day adventure to the Far North.

The Dune Rider vehicle is purpose built to go off-road and air conditioned. It has just 36 reclining seats, offering lots of leg room and has a sloping floor giving the best views.

Your tour includes: An early morning pick up at your accommodation, Fascinating commentary by our local drivers, A coastal café morning tea stop, A freshly prepared lunch box, Driving along 90 Mile Beach with a stop to wet your feet, Climbing huge sand dunes and boogie boarding down, A walk to Cape Reinga lighthouse and viewing the meeting of the two oceans, Visiting the Ancient Kauri Kingdom, A stop at the ‘world famous’ Mangonui Fish Shop (fresh fish and chips optional extra)

Winter Schedule – April-October; Duration: 10-11-Hours; Departs: 7.30am daily

(Day 4) - Half Day Tour, Cruise & Discover the Bay of Islands

Cruise and discover the very best of the Bay of Islands.

Discover the Bay – ‘Hole in the Rock’ Cruise

This tour gives you the opportunity to swim with dolphins (May to September).

You will cruise and discover the very best of the Bay of Islands. Experience the spectacular scenery in an area that is soaked in rich culture and history. Encounter diverse wildlife in their natural surroundings. Explore the Bay of Islands with us.

Your Discover the Bay cruise includes:
-Cruising among the 144 islands with skipper’s commentary
-A visit to the iconic ‘Hole in the Rock’ and when conditions permit, travel through it
-The opportunity to meet the local dolphins/ whales (lifetime viewing guarantee)

The yellow and black Dolphin Discovery V catamaran is designed for comfort, with an abundance of indoor and outdoor seating.

Additionally, a portion of your fare contributes to marine mammal research and conservation. Departs: 10am Monday to Saturday and 1:30pm Sunday (April to October) 9am & 1:30pm Monday to Saturday and 9am Sunday (November to March).

(Day 5) - Self-Drive from Bay of Islands to Auckland

Today drive from the Bay of Islands to Auckland, approximately 3 hours.

This drive will take approximately 3 hours. Leaving the Bay of Islands Resort, follow State Highway 11 to State Hwy 1 in Kawakawa (20 min). Continue to follow State Highway 1 to Auckland (2 hr 38 mi).

(Day 5) - Taxi from Auckland Car Rental Center to Accommodation

Taxi or ride share transfer as per your own arrangements (pay as you go).

Uber is available in most major cities.
Other Australian ride share options are:
-Ola
-DiDi
-Shebah

(Days 5 to 6) - 1 Nights Accommodation in Auckland

Travel to your accommodation in Auckland, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.

Auckland is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, regularly voted one of the best lifestyle cities in the world– renowned as that ‘City Of Sails.’ Dramatic landscapes and seascapes provide a diverse playground in which a compelling range of attractions are available. Visitors come to enjoy an array of exciting entertainment, leisure, culture and dining possibilities in New Zealand’s largest city.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Wilderness Experience

Enjoy a wonderful afternoon visiting Piha black sand beach and immerse yourself in the incredible surrounding rainforest in this great introduction to New Zealand nature.

After being picked up at your hotel, your first stop is the visitor center which is the entrance to the largest native rainforest area around Auckland. The Arataki visitor’s center has dramatic panoramic views across the rainforest to both of Auckland’s harbors as well as views back to Auckland City. The visitor’s center is also home to some traditional Maori carvings and your guide will talk about them and explain their significance for the area.

Continue to the lush native rainforest where you walk the easy tracks among giant tree ferns. See and find out about the famous New Zealand silver fern, manuka, and kauri trees as your guide talks about what makes New Zealand nature so unique. They also talk about the original Maori uses for some of the native plants in the forest.

You will then move on to experience the power of the rugged west coast. You stop at a stunning viewpoint overlooking Piha black sand beach and the Tasman Sea before going down to this amazing phenomenon. There you get the chance to stroll along one of the most awe-inspiring beaches the world has to offer and watch the surf waves rolling in.

During the afternoon, there is also a New Zealand style afternoon tea including biscuits (cookies), manuka honey, coffee or juice. After tea you will be transported to your Auckland accommodation.

Operates
Daily
Departs 12:30pm, Returns 5:30pm (approx.)
Tour does not operate Christmas and New Year’s Day

Includes
– Visiting Piha’s black sand beach
– Guided walk in the rainforest
– Afternoon tea
– Pick up and drop off at inner city accommodation

Need to Know
– Food and beverages are not included
– Please bring a water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
– Please wear comfortable walking shoes and weather appropriate clothing (lighter clothing in the warm months, heavier clothing in the cooler months)

Upgrades
– Private tours available
– Auckland City Highlights Adventure

(Day 6) - Full Day Tour, Deluxe Coach to Rotorua via Waitomo & Hobbiton

Take a journey into the heart of the Central North Island, visiting scenic highlights like the Waitomo Caves and the Hobbiton Movie Set on a full day sightseeing tour from Auckland.

Leaving Auckland in the morning, travel by deluxe coach through the lush farmland of the Waikato and King Country regions. Your experienced local driver guide will inform and entertain you, pointing out sites of interest including Rangiriri, the site of a major battle between British forces and local Maori in 1863.

In Waitomo, enjoy a 45-minute guided tour through the world famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Explore the underground caverns and learn how stalactites, stalagmites and other limestone structures were formed over millions of years. The Glowworm Grotto is a magical way to end the cave tour, as you travel by boat through a cavern lit up by thousands of twinkling glowworms.

Enjoy a delicious picnic-style lunch (vegetarian and other dietary options available on request) en route to Rotorua, where you will transfer onto the Hobbiton Movie Set coach tour and enjoy a scenic drive across the Kaimai Ranges to Matamata, a rural Kiwi town well-known for its thoroughbred industry and dairy farming. Just outside the township is the picturesque 1,250 acre farm where scenes from the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movie trilogies were filmed. The charming countryside of The Shire, as described in JRR Tolkien’s books, was carefully created on this working sheep and beef farm. The home of the heroic hobbits Bilbo, Frodo, Sam, Merry and Pippin has been preserved since filming wrapped, and now draws visitors from around the world.

On your guided Hobbiton Tour you will see where the movie magic was created. You’ll get the chance to see Hobbit holes, the Mill, the Green Dragon Inn and many other structures created for the films, and learn how farmland was transformed into a living, breathing piece of Middle-Earth. After your movie set tour, spend some free time in Matamata, before boarding your coach for the return journey to Auckland.

(Days 6 to 7) - 1 Night Accommodation in Rotorua

Travel to your accommodation in Rotorua, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.

Located on the shores of Lake Rotorua your accommodation is only a short walk to the city centre, convention centre, cafes and restaurants. Here in the heartland of New Zealand’s Maori culture you’ll experience an enveloping warmth, proud spirit, deep sense of history and a quick humour. Picturesque cobbled and lantern lined streetways and striking Tudor architecture celebrates New Zealand’s significant colonial history. Travel the region by mountain bike or participate in local bush walks.

Upgrade Available (extra cost):
Lake View Room

(Day 6) - Evening Event: Te Po, Indigenous Evening Experience

Te Po is an authentic, one-of-a-kind evening event. It is a feast of storytelling, entertainment and Maori cuisine like no other you’ll ever experience.

The Te Po  Indigenous Experience begins with a mouth-watering buffet at the world famous Pataka Kai Restaurant, Bar and Cafe. With locally sourced cuisine and an authentic Maori twist in each dish, it is guaranteed to be a favorite with your group.

Following this, you will be led to view an exhilarating cultural performance which takes place in the beautifully carved meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua. It will include a Pohiri (Traditional Maori Welcome), Waiata (Song), Moteatea (traditional chant), Poi and Haka.

Afterwards, enter the geothermal valley on a waka (people moving vehicle) and discover one of New Zealand’s most magnificent geothermal wonderlands – featuring dramatic geysers, bubbling mud, and beautiful native bush. For generations Te Puia has welcomed manuhiri (visitors) from all over the world to explore the magic hidden within Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley. During this experience, you will be viewing the valley afterhours and resting with a hot chocolate upon naturally heated rock seating beneath the powerful Pohutu Geyser.

Operates:
Daily 5:30pm-8:30pm

Includes:
– Return transfers from your Rotorua CBD accommodation
– Buffet dinner
– Maori cultural performance
– Hot chocolate
– Guided tour of the geothermal valley

Need to know:
Please advise of dietary requirements.

(Day 7) - Shuttle Transfer, Rotorua Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Rotorua, New Zealand, to the Airport.

Please note: For airport transfers – 2 suitcases per person, extra pieces may be charged at $5.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc – $5.00 each.

(Day 7) - New Zealand Domestic Flight, Rotorua to Wellington

Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Rotorua to Wellington (North Island).

(Day 7) - Shuttle Transfer, Wellington Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Wellington, New Zealand.

Please note: For airport transfers – 2 suitcases per person, extra pieces may be charged at $5.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc – $5.00 each.

(Days 7 to 9) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Wellington

Travel to your accommodation in Wellington, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Your 4 Star vacation accommodation is located conveniently in the heart of Wellington, New Zealand. It is a short walk from Westpac Stadium, Te Papa Museum and the waterfront. Your vacation hotel has a direct elevator to Lambton Quay via a shopping arcade. Travel to New Zealand’s top wine regions, Wairarapa and Marlborough, which are only a short drive away. Or participate in adventure activities such as mountain biking, sailing, bushwalking and much more.

Photo Credit: Tourism New Zealand

(Day 8) - Museum tour & Ship ride with Fish & Chips

A voyage through Wellington’s harbour and nature.

Explore the stunning natural environment of Matiu/Somes Island, discover the city’s history with a guided tour of the Museum of Wellington City & Sea, and enjoy a classic kiwi fish ‘n chips lunch as you ride the ferry to roam the natural conservation environment of Matiu/Somes Island.

Tours depart – 11:00am Monday to Friday and finish at 3:45pm.

(Day 9) - Shuttle Transfer, Wellington Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Wellington to the Airport.

Please note: For airport transfers – 2 suitcases per person, extra pieces may be charged at $5.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc – $5.00 each.

(Day 9) - New Zealand Domestic Flight, Wellington to Christchurch

Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Wellington to Christchurch (South Island).

(Day 9) - Shuttle Transfer, Christchurch Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Please note: For airport transfers – 2 suitcases per person, extra pieces may be charged at $5.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc – $5.00 each.

(Days 9 to 10) - 1 Night Accommodation in Christchurch

Travel to your accommodation in Christchurch, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.

Your 4 Star vacation accommodation in Christchurch, located on New Zealand’s South Island, offers a stylish boutique hotel, just metres from Cathedral Square, major business houses, convention facilities and prime attractions. The city, also known as the “Garden City” offers many opportunities to either rest from your travel or explore the city. Consider traveling to Arthur’s Pass National Park, which has an incredible diversity of flora and landscape. Experience a breathtaking journey aboard the TranzAlpine Train winding its way through New Zealand’s magnificent Waimakariri Gorge.

(Days 10 to 11) - Tour Package, Glacier Express Christchurch to Queenstown via Franz

Enjoy a two day tour from Christchurch to Queenstown via the West Coast.

Day 1 Christchurch – Greymouth – Franz Josef

Board the world-renowned TranzAlpine train bound for Greymouth via the Arthur’s Pass National Park. Cross the Canterbury Plains, travel over viaducts and through tunnels and into the lush rainforests of the West Coast. On arrival in Greymouth board a coach for your journey south to the glaciers arriving in around 5:00pm. For summer departures you will have time to walk to the glacier lookout before sunset.

Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier, Bella Vista Motel or similar

Day 2 Franz Josef – Queenstown
We travel deeper into South Westland taking in the spectacle of Haast Pass, carved by the Haast River and framed by the Southern Alps. Take in the views of many beautiful lakes including Wanaka, Hawea, Dunstan and Wakatipu. Arrive into Queenstown at 4.15pm.

This tour is suggested for departures between October and April for the best chance to see the glaciers. Add a night in Franz Josef to experience a half day guided walk on the glacier!

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Franz Josef Glacier Helihike (3 Hours)

Enjoy a half day of exploring the glacier in a very unique way (3 hours).



After an exciting scenic flight, you land high up on the glacier and undertake a two hour guided hike amongst some of the most pristine and awe-inspiring glacier scenery available. Your guide chooses the route as you go and with an eye for the most spectacular ice formations you’ll soon be making your way through a wonderland of towering pinnacles and brilliantly blue ice.



You’ll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and with plenty of photo opportunities and the chance to learn more about this magnificent glacier, this will almost certainly be your most memorable experience whilst in New Zealand.

Departs: Summer Hours – 9:15am, 11:45am. 2:15pm; Winter Hours – 10:15am, 12:45pm
(Max 11 per guide)

(Days 11 to 15) - 4 Nights Accommodation in Queenstown

Travel to your accommodation in Queenstown, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 4 nights.

It’s all about location! Your 4 star accommodations sits in a tranquil lakefront setting only a minute’s walk from the heart of Queenstown with shopping, restaurants, nightlife and activities all within easy reach. This fresh, modern hotel features rooms and facilities furnished with the finest comforts and conveniences. A place where you can relax with superb uninterrupted views of the lake, mountains and adjoining gardens. Comfortable and serene you will surely enjoy your stay here!

Upgrades Available: Garden View Room, Lakeview Room

(Day 11) - Day Tour, Gondola Ride with Spectacular Views

One of the first sights to captivate visitors to Queenstown is the distinctive outline of the Skyline complex high above town.

Located an easy 5 minute walk from central Queenstown and exclusively accessed by scenic gondola, Skyline Gondola, Restaurant & Luge is a must-see attraction during your visit to Queenstown. The best views in the region are found here, spread out in a spectacular 220 degree panorama, with breathtaking views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkable mountain range and across Lake Wakatipu to Cecil and Walter Peaks. It’s truly magnificent and awe-inspiring!

Of course there’s more to do than just admire the view! For an additional cost you can:

  • Enjoy a dinner or relax in the bar in the Skyline Stratosfare Restaurant. Casual dining is also available during the day in the Cafe.
  • Thrill seekers can hurtle down the winding downhill Skyline Luge. Purpose built Luge carts put you in complete control as you take on a half-mile of banked corners, tunnels and dippers. Once you’ve conquered the course, hop on the chairlift and do it all again, and again, and again! Gentle and leisurely or steep and adventurous, you’ll be hooked.
  • Explore the southern night sky of Queenstown with a guided tour of the galaxy and learn about the stars, nebulae and planets that make up our solar system and beyond.

Ask your Destination Specialist about available combo packages to make your day at Skyline more enjoyable.

Various walking tracks can also be accessed from Skyline, from an easy 30 minute walk to a full day hike.

Operates
Daily. Stratosfare Restaurant closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Gondola rides operate from 9:30am to 8:30pm Monday, Thursday, Friday & Sunday. Gondola rides operate from 9:30am to 6:30pm Tuesday & Wednesday. Saturday operation hours are 8:50am to 8:30pm.

Includes
– Gondola ride

Need to Know
Gondola ride is approximately 7-10 minutes one way.

Upgrades
– Add a thrilling luge ride to your Gondola experience.
– Add the Taste of New Zealand buffet at Stratosfare Restaurant
– Stargazing evening event

(Day 12) - Day Tour, Doubtful Sound (Full Day)

Travel to an untouched world deep in the heart of Fiordland National Park. The beauty and vastness of Doubtful Sound will take your breath away as you experience its deep wilderness.

When you discover Doubtful Sound you will be struck by its silence – a silence broken only by birdsong or the rushing of a distant waterfall. Its beauty and vastness will take your breath away.

Your day begins in Manapouri with a cruise across the picturesque Lake Manapouri followed by a trip across New Zealand’s most expensive road over Wilmot Pass, pausing along the way to experience the dense Fiordland rainforest and view Doubtful Sound glistening far below.


In Doubtful Sound, you will board our spacious, purpose built catamaran Patea Explorer for a three hour cruise through this pristine fiord. During the cruise our knowledgeable and friendly nature guides will share with you their passion for the region through their commentary. They will answer questions, point out landmarks and provide you with information about the varied wildlife you may encounter like dolphins, fur seals and the rare Fiordland crested penguin.

Lunch options and complimentary tea and coffee are available on the vessel.

*A picnic lunch can be pre-ordered before your tour for an additional cost. There is also a selection of cafe food aboard the vessel for purchase.

Tour departs at approximately 7am and returns at approximately 8pm (seasonally adjusted).

Photo Credit: Tourism Media

(Day 13) - Nomad Tour - Safari of the Scenes

Spend the day taking in the breathtaking sights of the land around Queenstown; with time spent at ‘Lord of the Rings’ filming locations.

For true Lord of the Rings fans, this is the trip where Nomad Safaris really does take you There and Back again. This scenic sightseeing tour includes recognizable filming locations and stunning natural scenery. The Glenorchy Safari of the Scenes takes you from Queenstown to Glenorchy stopping at breath-taking viewpoints. 

En route from Glenorchy follow the Dart River to the spectacular filming location for Isengard. This location offers stunning views of Mt Earnslaw. Heading to Paradise discover the location for the Forrest of Lothlorien. Leaving Glenorchy and heading towards Queenstown you will stop at 12 Mile Delta to explore the location of the Ithilien Camp. This tour also includes locations from X-men Origins: Wolverine, and The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian.

Operates
Daily
Departs 8:00am or 1:30pm, Returns 12:30pm or 6:30pm (approx.)

Includes
– Return transfers from your hotel or information center
– Visit filming locations
– Beautiful views
– Gold pan in the Arrow River
– Safari vehicle is a 4WD Land Cruiser or Rover

Need to Know
You have the option of staying in or near the vehicle for any of the stops on the tour.

Upgrades
Private tours available
Full Day Lord of the Rings Tour

THE LORD OF THE RINGS and the characters, places, events and items contained therein, are trademarks or registered trademarks of Middle-Earth Enterprises, LLC and are used under license by Rings Scenic Tours Limited and Wingnut Film Productions Limited, which are independently owned and operated.

(Day 14) - Free Day to Explore Queenstown

Spend a day to relax or explore dynamic Queenstown.

This region is renowned for its incedible adventure activities and spectacular outdoor terrain. You could try skiing, snowboarding, bungy jumping, paragliding, jetboating, sky diving and more! Or, if you want something a little more relaxed, you can choose from numerous family activities, nature experiences, tours and beauty spas. One hundred and forty years after our establishment as a gold mining camp, central Queenstown has transformed into a sophisticated cosmopolitan town, tucked into a picturesque bay on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, beneath majestic mountains. There’s a permanent buzz in downtown Queenstown, where you’ll find a fantastic choice of restaurants, a lively bar scene and excellent shopping.

Photo Credit: Tourism New Zealand

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Hot Air Balloon over Queenstown

Enjoy a once in a life time experience in a hot air balloon. Queenstown, in New Zealand’s South Island, is the most spectacular place to fly in a hot air balloon!

The flight is carried out near Queenstown in the valley between the Remarkables Range and Coronet Peak with panoramic views of the mountains and lakes of the area.

Get a bird’s eye view of some of the filming locations used in “Lord Of The Rings”.After about a one hour flight, indulge in a champagne celebration which includes juice, tea,coffee, hot chococlate, croissants, danishes & muffins.

Dress appropriately for the season, bearing in mind that this is an outdoor activity. It is no colder at altitude than on the ground before take off. Tramping boots or sports shoes are recommended. High heels and sandals are not suitable. Bring a hat! Passengers will be standing for the duration of the flight. Ballooning is weather dependent and we will only fly if weather conditions are suitable.

Allow 3 ½ to 4 hours from pick-up at dawn* to drop off at your Hotel. Additional afternoon flight June, July and August in the afternoon.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Walter Peak Farm & BBQ Lunch Excursion - ½ Day

This is a New Zealand farming tour like no other. A visit to the Walter Peak High Country Farm is the perfect opportunity to spend a relaxing few hours enjoying an interactive farming experience.

Farming in the New Zealand high country is a way of life – and it’s one you can get up close to at Walter Peak.
Situated on picturesque Lake Whakatipu’s south-western shores, Walter Peak High Country Farm is an idyllic place. The farm tour itself is a wonderful interactive experience, with something to keep everyone entertained and happy. You will be greeted by your rural host upon disembarking the TSS Earnslaw, who will take you to the amphitheater, where you will watch the remarkable skill with which the farm dogs round up sheep from the paddocks. You will have time for a walking tour of the farmyard, visiting the holding pens, where you can help feed the sheep and deer and even get up close to the Scottish Highland Cattle. Then a stroll to the charming old woolshed for afternoon tea. You may have time to stroll through the lakeside gardens before you re-board the TSS Earnslaw for your cruise back to Queenstown.

Operates
Daily (except Christmas)
Starts multiple times daily from 11am to 3pm (3.5 Hour Tour)

Includes
– Return cruise on the TSS Earnslaw
– Guided Farm tour
– Sheep dog demonstration
– Enjoy afternoon tea, freshly baked at the farm

Need to Know
Licensed bar available aboard the TSS Earnslaw (Own expense). Substitute vessel used during 15May-26Jun maintenance period. Please bring non-slip shoes/boots, warm clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses and camera.

Upgrades
Can add BBQ lunch or dinner to your farm experience.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - TSS Earnslaw Steamboat Cruise

Relive the elegance of bygone days with a 1.5 hour cruise aboard a vintage steamship.

Your trip will take you across the lake, past the Remarkables mountain range and Cecil Peak, to Walter Peak High Country Farm. (You can choose to add a Walter Peak Farm Tour, a gourmet long lunch/dinner, or simply cruise back to Queenstown Bay. A visit to the engine room reveals the giant steam engines at work. Close by you can view the collection of historical photos in the mini museum, check out the bridge or, if you’d rather, kick back and enjoy a wine or beer or some café food at the on-board Promenade Café and Bar (not included). The TSS Earnslaw has carried many famous visitors, including Queen Elizabeth, Prince Phillip and even President Bill Clinton. Undoubtedly, this iconic tour is one not to miss.

Operates:
Daily (except Christmas Day)
Starts multiple times daily from 12:00pm to 7:00pm (1.5 Hour Tour)

Includes:
– Return cruise on the TSS Earnslaw

Need to know:
Licensed bar available aboard the TSS Earnslaw (Food and drinks not included). Substitute vessel used during 15May-26Jun maintenance period. Please bring non-slip shoes/boots, sunscreen, sunglasses, warm clothing and camera.

Upgrades:
Can upgrade experience to include a Walter Peak Farm tour or include a New Zealand BBQ lunch or dinner.

Photo Credit: Real Journeys

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Otago Wine Tour - ½ Day

Enjoy an afternoon exploring some of the award winning wineries in the Queenstown region.

Take this afternoon tour and experience the true flavor of our local pinot noir and other wine varietals at three premium vineyards. Enjoy a guided tour through the vines and into New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave. This relaxing tour travels just a short distance from Queenstown where you will be given in-depth wine tastings and presentation at each vineyard.

You have plenty of time to unwind and get yourself a winery lunch (own expense) or sample a selection of local cheeses, craft beer, coffee (there is an opportunity to substitute wine tasting for beer at time of booking).

Operates
Daily (except Christmas, Boxing Day, Good Friday, & Easter)
Departs 12:00pm and Returns 4:30pm (approx.)

Includes
– Return transfers from hotel
– Hosted tasting at 3 wineries
– Underground wine cave tour
– 12+ wine tastings

Need to Know
Please bring money for Winery lunch. This experience can be catered to your dietary needs. Please advise of any special dietary requirements when completing your Traveler Information Form.

Upgrades
Private Wine & Food

Photo Credit: Southern Public Relations

(Day 15) - Shuttle Transfer, Queenstown Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Queenstown, New Zealand, to the Airport.

Please note: For airport transfers – 2 suitcases per person, extra pieces may be charged at $5.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc – $5.00 each.

(Day 15) - New Zealand Domestic Flight, Queenstown to Auckland

Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Queenstown to Auckland (North Island).

(Day 15) - International Flight, Auckland to Los Angeles

Today depart Auckland and fly to the USA. Enjoy an in-flight dinner and movie with arrival in the USA. Note: you will be traveling back across the International Date Line. Gain that day back you lost on the way over, you actually arrive in the USA on the same day you leave Auckland.

Note: Flight may include a stop over in Australia.

 
Detailed Pricing
Approximate Pricing Double Occupancy Sole Occupancy Permitted USA Departure Dates & Fare Rules
Land Content Only $5,298 $7,080 International return flights from the USA are not included. Please see detailed itinerary (above) for more information on inclusions. Itinerary can commence any day (subject to availability).
Special (Economy Class) $6,716 $8,498 Feb 17 2024 - Nov 28 2024
USA Departures: 17FEB - 28JUN; 24JUL-17SEP or 16OCT-28NOV24. Expires 11 APR 24
International Return Flights from the USA (Los Angeles) are included. Non-Refundable, Non-Changeable. Other Dates may also apply. For details phone Toll-Free: (888)359 2877
Basic (Economy Class) $7,389 $9,171 Basic: May 1 - Jun 8 & Jul 24 - Sep 21, 2022. International Return Flights from the USA (Los Angeles) are included. Non-Refundable. Changeable (Fees Apply). Subject to Availability.
Shoulder (Economy Class) $7,596 $9,378 Shoulder: Feb 1 - Apr 30, Jun 9 - Jul 23 & Sep 22 - Dec 8, 2022. International Return Flights from the USA (Los Angeles) are included. Non-Refundable. Changeable (Fees Apply). Subject to Availability.
Peak (Economy Class) $8,114 $9,895 Peak: Dec 9, 2022 - Jan 31, 2023. International Return Flights from the USA (Los Angeles) are included. Non-Refundable. Changeable (Fees Apply. Subject to Availability.
Premium (Economy Class) $10,366 $12,147 Premium Economy Class International Return Flights from the USA (Los Angeles) are included. Change and Cancellation Fees Apply. Subject to Availability.
Business Class $12,080 $13,861 Business Class International Return Flights from the USA (Los Angeles) are included. Subject to Availability.
First Class $31,843 $33,625 First Class International Return Flights from the USA (Los Angeles) are included. Subject to Availability.
  • a) All prices are USD$/person (including all Taxes). Subject to availability. Other Conditions Apply (see Terms and Conditions).
  • b) Land Content Only represents the pricing for the full itinerary as detailed, except the International Flights from the USA (and return) are NOT included.
  • c) An Infant (Lapchild) must be less than 2 years old on the date of departure. Infant must travel with at least one adult. An infant with a seat pays the price of a Child.
  • d) A Child must be aged between 2-11 years on the date of departure. Child must travel with at least one adult.