Package price:
On arrival into Christchurch, you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel.
After an introductory city sights tour, enjoy a scenic drive to the historic French Village of Akaroa, with time to wander through the charming galleries and craft stores. This afternoon set off on your Nature Cruise in the hope of spotting the rare Hector’s Dolphin native to New Zealand and keep an eye out for penguins and other sea birds and hear about the history of Akaroa. Following your cruise, return to Christchurch for an evening at leisure. We recommend dining at one of the city’s many restaurants.
This morning board the TranzAlpine, renowned as one of the great train journeys of the world. Travel over massive viaducts, river valleys and spectacular gorges before descending through the Otira Tunnel to Moana, on the banks of picturesque Lake Brunner. Enjoy lunch at Kingfisher Restaurant sampling some local Kiwi dishes, before travelling to the Brunner Mine Site, the location of the 1896 mine explosion. This afternoon in the coastal town of Hokitika, you will visit a local gallery, the perfect chance to pick up a gift or souvenir.
Today, take in the natural beauty of the Hokitika Gorge on a short walk descending through the hardwood forest that will lead you to a swing bridge which crosses the Hokitika River. Continue north to Greymouth, home of Monteith’s Brewing Co. where you will sample locally brewed beers over lunch. This afternoon travel along the Great Coast Road to the world-famous Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes.
Journey north along the coast to Tauranga Bay and Cape Foulwind, named by Captain Cook in 1770 when he encountered nasty weather. A short walk will showcase the rugged coastline and sea life often on show. Travel inland via the Buller Gorge and Murchison to Nelson, to visit the World of WearableArt Museum. A guided tour will showcase more than 60 award-winning garments from designers located all over the world. Attached is the Classic Cars Museum where you can view the prized collection of over 140 veteran and vintage cars.
Travel to Kaiteriteri, the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park and join a cruise along the parks’ picturesque coastline. At Anchorage Bay, a barbeque lunch will be served. Re-join your coach and depart for Nelson via the vineyards. Free time this evening allows you to dine at one of the many local restaurants in town.
Today travel via Havelock and the wine-growing region of Marlborough to the spectacular Yealands Estate. The ‘White Road Tour’, will take you on a journey through this remarkable vineyard offering breathtaking views. Enjoy lunch at a local Blenheim Beer Garden before visiting the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, home to one of the largest private collections of WW1 aircraft.
Enjoy a leisurely start this morning with free time. This afternoon you will be treated to a unique wine and cheese tasting experience at Cloudy Bay Estate. Later travel to Picton to board a luxury launch for a scenic dinner cruise through the Queen Charlotte Sound. Take in the sights and wildlife while enjoying a sumptuous meal of local salmon, Greenshell Mussels and Cloudy Bay Clams, matched with a glass of Marlborough wine.
Farewell the Marlborough region and journey to Kaikoura to visit the Kaikoura Museum, featuring a dedicated exhibition on the impact of the 2016 earthquake. This afternoon you may like to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the coastline to see the many species of whales that migrate through this area.
Depart Kaikoura and head to Christchurch to visit the International Antarctic Centre, designed to provide an informative account of life in Antarctica. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner with your new friends.
Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.
Find a personal travel manager to make an enquiry
Advertised prices are per person twin share departing Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Adelaide and Perth in economy class. Prices are correct at time of publication and are subject to availability and change at any time without notification due to fluctuations in charges, taxes and currency. Savings are included in the advertised prices. Bonus offer: receive a GPT Tour Jacket per person and a 400-page New Zealand Eyewitness Travel Guide per booking. Some activities require a moderate level of fitness. Offer is valid on new bookings only until 31 May 2020. Other conditions apply. Please contact your personal travel manager for full terms and conditions.