Spectacular New Zealand - North and South Island Tour
30 Nov till 18 Dec is fully booked
26 Jan till 12 Feb is available for bookings
These tours are open for bookings for 2010/2011. Please contact us if you are interested contact@toursnz.com
Come with us for this unique experience to discover the true New Zealand. Meet local people in this mystical land of Maori culture, and pristine majestic beauty.
From the time you arrive in New Zealand you will be taking part in an adventurous journey of discovery. You will be comforted knowing that everything you ever wished for in a holiday experience is about to come true. Because we will do everything we can to make it so.
This tour is flexible and available throughout the year for individuals or groups. Below you will find the 18 day itinerary including activities and attractions.
Day 1
We will be at the airport to welcome you and take you to the Sky City Hotel where you may wish to rest or visit some of the local sites.
Additional accommodation and airport transfers can be arranged prior to the commencement of the tour.
Day 2 - Auckland “The City of Sails”
Auckland has more boats per capita than any other city in the world. Today's activities will be initiated with a harbour cruise. You will find that you are never far from our beautiful ocean during your stay here in New Zealand . We will also visit the Auckland museum which has a brilliant collection of cultural history and art and gives a great insight to New Zealand's historical past. We will be ascending the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere, New Zealand's own “Sky Tower”. Adjacent to the Sky tower is the Sky City Casino for any wishing to try their luck. Here we will also be indulging in a delectable dinner in the the upper part of the Sky Tower revolving Restaurant.
Day 3 - Coromandel and The Bay of Plenty “New Zealand's Playground”
Breakfast at your leisure, but we do need to be on the road by 9.00 am. We leave Auckland city life behind Auckland behind as we head East along our beautiful the Coromandel Coast. With more than 400 kilometers of spectacular coastline you are sure to find the beach of your dreams. The rugged volcanic hills are cloaked in native rain forest and the Coromandel is a place where bush and beach are both easily accessible. In the same day, you can experience the blue dazzle of the Pacific Ocean and calming greenness of the kauri forests. This evening we will stay in Coromanel township at the Anchor Lodge Resort. and enjoy an evening meal at one of Coromandel's quaint restaurants.
Day 4 - Mount Manganui
From here we head to Tauranga and Mount Maunganui in the Bay of Plenty. This region is one of country's premier holiday destinations. Surrounded by over 100kms of glittering white sand, crystal clear waters, rolling surf beaches, beautiful harbours and an unbeatable lifestyle. Here you can relax, unwind and take in the beauty of the Bay. Your beach side accommodation tonight is the Ocean side Resort Hotel. 07 575 5371. Indulge in an evening meal while overlooking the majestic Pacific Ocean.
Day 5 - Rotorua “Thermal City Of Culture”
Today we follow the coastline before heading inland to Rotorua visiting some of the regions majestic lakes on our way. From the moment you enter Rotorua you know you are somewhere like nowhere else. Lazy drifts of steam are emitted from cracks and crevices. This is nature’s spa of the Pacific. Spiritual home of the Maori. We enter Te Puia a thermal reserve. Walk past steaming fumaroles and pools of boiling mud so violent they are unnerving.
After this we will be checking in to the Novotel Hotel Rotorua. Tonight is a must; we take part in a Tamaki cultural experience. We go back through time to before the Pakeha (European) arrived. We attend a Maori Concert and you have the opportunity to feast on a traditional Maori Hangi (Traditional Maori meal).
Day 6 - Wellington The Capital City
Check out is at 10 am Today we head south to Wellington stopping at the Huka Falls in Taupo along the way. The Huka Falls are one of New Zealand's most spectacular sights. The sheer volume of beautiful bright clear water that gushed throught the narrow gap, makes up for the modest size of these falls. Over 200,000 litres per second roar over the 3 metre falls with a force that is truly impressive.
We follow the shores of Lake Taupo Towards Wellington. We pass our Central Volcanoes to Waiouru where we visit our Army Museum for lunch. After lunch a three or so hour’s drive through farming country to NZ’s capital city Wellington. During this drive we will also pass through the Desert Road, This part of the country is the home of some of New Zealand's wild horses.
Accommodation and dinner tonight is at the Portland Hotel Wellington.(Total 7 hours driving)
Day 7
Wellington is a pleasant picturesque city perched on hills (not the best for wheelchairs in some places) around a beautiful harbour. A scenic drive round the harbour, and a trip up the cable car will take us just past lunchtime before we head to catch the ferry to the South Island.
This is a real highlight. It takes around three hours. Half an hour in Wellington Harbour about an hour an a half in Cook Straight between the Nth and Sth Island, then the last hour through Tory Channel and the Marlborough Sounds, to Picton. We stay two nights here at Bay Vista Waterfront Motel right on the picturesque waterfront.
Day 8 - Picton "Picture Perfect"
A lazy day in a very relaxed and pleasant little town. For any wanting them there are boat cruises and fishing trips we can arrange, although not very wheelchair friendly. We can talk about this beforehand and make any arrangements at that time. Dinner tonight is at the Jolly Roger a friendly little pub near our accommodation.
Day 9
10 am check out then south through Blenheim and the district of Marlborough one of New Zealand's prime wine growing areas. We visit the Montana winery for morning tea then travel further south following the thin strip of coastal land between the Kaikoura Mountain Range and the Pacific Ocean; we usually stop for another cuppa along the way as well as visit a small seal colony just before arriving in Kaikoura. This evening we will stay at the Anchor Inn Motel right on the ocean front. (Three hours driving).
Day 10 - Kaikoura "Conservation Splendour"
Few places in the world can boast of such natural wonders as those offered by land and sea in Kaikoura .The seaside settlement of Kaikoura, situated midway between Christchurch and Picton on the rugged east coast of New Zealand's South Island, is overlooked by majestic mountains, which are snow-capped for many months of the year. Here in Kaikoura have the opportunity of a Whale watching trip. Either from the air or from the sea, We must book ahead so will make arrangements for these activities. (Both are reliant on the weather and neither is included in the tour cost). These activities are not wheelchair accessible, but with a little pushing and grunting we have always managed ok, and the experience is fantastic.
After this we have a pleasant afternoon’s drive down to Christchurch stopping to sample some wine at the Mudhouse Winery. It is a beautiful city with many varied attractions. We call it our Garden City. Accommodation for the night is at the Heritage Hotel Christchurch . (Three hours driving)
Day 11 - Christchurch "The Garden City"
Christchurch - just like the rest of New Zealand - is a city of contrasts located on the east coast of the South Island. It is a place where its residents continue to enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle amidst a natural environment world-renowned for its beauty. A growing cosmopolitan ambience also adds a touch of excitement without overt flashiness.
Everywhere there is an understated elegance that speaks of times gone by and promises a future where anything is possible.
We take a scenic drive over the Port Hills to Littleton and the Summit Road as well as a look at some beautiful local gardens. We also visit the markets and arts centre. The art centre and Christchurch is a place for street theatre and buzzing activity during the summer months. Tonight's evening meal is at one of Christchurch delicious Restaurants.
Day 12
We have a reasonably early start at 8:30 am as we head west. The first hour or so is flat farming country known as the Canterbury Plains. This is New Zealand’s largest and flattest area. Then we head up over some scenic mountain passes through the Southern Alps and down to the West Coast to Hokitika, an attractive sleepy little town. A hundred or so years ago miners fought over gold, today there is still gold around but Hokitika is New Zealand’s leading Green Stone (Jade) centre. Accommodation is at the Heritage Highway Motel right in the town centre. (Six hours driving)
Day 13 - West Coast “Natural Wonders”
The next few days is an opportunity to photograph some of the most beautiful countryside in the world. I don't think you can not take a fantastic picture. We head south through farming country nestled between the Southern Alps and the Tasman Sea. Further South we drive past many small lakes and through some of our largest remaining stands of native New Zealand Rain Forest. Yes you guessed it; we get a lot of rain on the West Coast. It is something over a two-hour’s drive to Franz Josef where we will stop for lunch. Here we also have the opportunity of viewing Franz Josef Glacier, unfortunately, the track to the glacier face is definitely not for wheelchairs. If you have a few spare dollars may be interested in a Glacier Helicopter flight. After our stop here we carry on past Fox Glacier and on to Haast.
Accommodation is at the Heritage Park Lodge.
Day 14
A 9.30am start. First we backtrack just a few miles to the Ship Creek bush walk. This is a short walk but gives you an up close impression of our rainforest. it has been upgraded so wheelchairs are able to use it. We will spend an hour or so there, then head back through Haast, through the Haast Pass and on to Lake Hawea. We are now in Central Otago, a vastly different country than the West Coast. We are staying for the night at the Lake Hawea Motor Inn. The view from our accommodation is breathtaking.
Day 15
Queenstown “Adventure Capital”
A 9:00am start. Just a few miles in to Wanaka where we will spend an hour before heading to historic Cardrona, Arrowtown and the Shotover Jetboat ride(not included in price). Then over the Crown Range to Queenstown. www.queenstown-nz.co.nz Gold mining country, the Wild West of NZ. Here our home for two nights is the Copthorne Hotel Queenstown 03 441 8699 with it's million dollar views of Lake Wakatipu and the mountains of Middle Earth or the Novatel Hotel at the waters edge. Dinner at Walter Peak High Country Sheep Station. To get there we take a nostalgic trip on the Lady of the lake Steam Ship Earnslaw. You just can't help falling in love with her. www.fiordlandtravel.co.nz/
Day 16
Scenic flight into and boat trip on Milford Sound. This cost is not included in tour and is dependent on suitable weather conditions.
http://www.fiordlandtravel.co.nz/
Tonight we go up on the gondola and dine at the Skyline Restaurant with its spectacular views.
www.skyline.co.nz/
Day 17
Today, sadly, we say farewell to Queenstown and start our fantastic scenic journey North. We will be travelling through Cromwell, over the Lindis Pass through Omarama and Lake Tekapo. We will arrive home again in the Heritage Hotel in Christchurch.
Day 18
Today a sad goodbye. I will escort you to the airport to catch your homeward flight.
Group Size
We limit our groups to six, plus driver. Per vehicle.
Tour package includes
Accommodation, Breakfasts, All Evening Meals, Arranged Land Transport, Specified Attractions, Specified Sightseeing, a helping hand, a smiling face and a shoulder to lean on whenever you need it.
Tour package does not include
Drinks, Lunches, morning/afternoon teas, personal and sundry costs, laundry/dry-cleaning, personal care, medical costs, taxis, personal transport or trips, attractions arranged but not specified in cost.
Attractions Included
Skytower, T Puia thermal park, Huka Falls, Auckland Museum, Cable car Wellington, Walter Peak trip, Tamaki Maori Concert and Hangi, North to South Island Ferry crossing, Skyline Restaurant/Gondola, Queenstown, Earnslaw Steam cruise, dinner and farm show.
Attractions arranged but not included
Auckland Harbour Cruise, Whale Watching, Milford Scenic Flight and Cruise, Shotover Jet Boat. We are flexible and often able to arrange other activities in line with your personal interests.
Flight arrangements
You or your travel agent will have arranged your arrival in Auckland, and contacted us with those arrangements. We can provide flexible airport pick-ups as well as book extra accommodation for up to two days prior to the start of the tour.
Airport transfers
Airfares and meals for additional days booked outside of standard tour are not included in this price.
Accommodation
We use high standard resort and hotel accommodation in the larger centres. In some of the more rural areas we use the best there is with suitable access facilities. In some cases those paying a single supplement may be asked to share a two-bedroom unit. They will have their own bedroom but share common shower, toilet and lounge facilities. In some instances we may not have sufficient fully accessible accommodation. The most accessible will be allocated on need, we apologize in advance if occasionally you may have to improvise somewhat, and ask for your understanding on such matters. We can assure you, we are there to help. You will manage just fine. Circumstances can occasionally mean changing accommodation for a variety of reasons.
Meals
There are a wide variety of meals provided with the itinerary, some in top hotels and restaurants. Some with a much more local flavour. From Fish and Chips on newspaper in Hokitika to a sumptuous buffet overlooking the mountains and lakes of Middle Earth in Queenstown. Breakfasts are also varied from full cooked breakfast in our resort hotels to continental in some of the smaller places. We are able to arrange for any special needs. Vegetarian, etc.
Who Can Come?
Anyone, but we have designed this holiday particularly for people who deserve extra care or those with special needs, or a little apprehensive about travelling. Accommodation, transport and most attractions are wheelchair accessible. If you have a yen to do it, come on you can. Behavioural problems that could cause embarrassment to others is one special need our company is not set up to cater for unless you choose the personal tour option (conditions apply).
Tour Cost
$9,500 NZ per person based on twin share. Single accommodation will incur additional $1,500. Prices may vary slightly and can be confirmed upon request.
The Itinerary
is at a real easy pace. Late check outs, help with your baggage, absolutely stress free, with several days suitable as rest days.
Our Vehicles
are a Nissan Elgrand Luxury air-conditioned mini bus or Mitsubishi bus. Wheelchair users in some cases may have to transfer to normal seating by way of hydraulic lifting chair. Approximate driving time total is mentioned in itinerary, this does not include rest time and stops. We do our best to schedule stops at least every two hours driving.
An experienced Escort
will be along to assist in general terms. However, personal carers are not part of the package. We can provide personal care, this can save on airfares if you need to bring a caregiver along but would incur extra cost and need to be discussed with us personally before the tour starts. We can often arrange one attendant able to care for two or even three on tour, allowing them to split the cost. This is depending on individual needs. Some activities may not be suitable for the entire group.
Weather
Generally December thru to February are very stable and clear months weather wise. Our weather is generally good, but again we can’t make any promises, bring some warm clothing just in case.
Extra Costs
Tipping is not expected. There are no hidden tax costs indeed in some cases overseas visitors can get a tax refund on some products. Lunches and sundry expenses are not great, probably ten to twenty dollars (NZ) a day would be ample. Scenic flights and other attractions not included in price of tour can vary, we can give estimates if required. Any not wishing to take part in specific attractions can be discounted the appropriate amounts, provided that we are made aware prior to payment.
Comments
More often than we can remember we have had people with other tour companies meet us along the way and say they just wish they had heard of us before they made their arrangements. We specialize in caring for people, late checkouts, plenty of rest time, adaptability rather than strict hard time tables. Our motto "Luvin' care with every fare". On tour we are there to help you. Come to us with any problems or for any advice, don't battle along on your own.
Contact
On tour we can be contacted on our cell phone 0274 627 621 while it is in coverage, a message can be left if not. All hotel contact numbers are included in case any friends or relatives at home want to keep in touch. Numbers are given as if ringing from inside NZ, overseas caller use NZ code 64 and drop the first zero.
Medical Backup
Our staff is experienced in managing and looking after people with various special medical, mobility and other needs. Even though we complain about our Health System here in NZ we do have a good network of doctors, medical centres, and hospitals. As long as we are aware of your needs we can plan ahead to make sure they are fully met. We are the only company in New Zealand offering this depth of service. New Zealand does have some kind of a reciprocal arrangement with the UK in health care delivery.
Insurance
ACC (Accident Compensation Commission) provides cover for accident while in NZ, your safety and wellbeing are our prime concern but we insist you take out personal travel insurance even before putting a deposit down in case for reasons beyond your control you are unable to make the trip.
Conditions
We have an application form that we like everyone to fill in; the reasons are explained on the form. We do our very best, we go much further than "the extra mile" your safety and enjoyment are our main concern, so we need to know of any special needs. If for any reason an attraction included in tour cost does not go ahead, that portion will be refunded. (This does not include someone deciding they don't want to do it once the tour has started) Tour is subject to minimum numbers.
Liability
Your Safety, wellbeing and enjoyment are our prime responsibility and concern. New Zealand’s Accident Compensation Commission covers your personal medical needs in the event of accident. If however something spoils your trip. Accident, departure from itinerary, bad weather, or whatever. We want you to be assured we have done our very best, in no way can we personally or our company accept liability for anything beyond our control, or the result of a decision we or any of our staff made at the time believing it would be for the best. Our vehicles are all in very good order and well serviced, however the nature of our tours means we may not quickly be able to have a fully suitable replacement vehicle available. Should a breakdown necessitate a hold up or departure from itinerary, we would do our very best for you but once again could not be expected to make refund or be liable. Before tour starts we need your assurance you understand, and accept these conditions.
To secure a booking we require $500 NZ per person. |
Full payment to be made, two months prior to tour departure. |
Unless dealing through an agent we prefer payment in the form of Bank Draft or Telegraphic Transfer into our nominated account, and strongly urge travel insurance to be taken out before any money is paid. |
All cancellations should be notified in writing and become effective only when received in this office. |
Cancellation charges are as follows:- |
PERIOD OF CANCELLATION |
AMOUNT OF LOSS IN RESPECT OF TOTAL COST |
60 days (before commencement date) |
Loss of Deposit |
30-59 days |
50% |
00-29 days |
100% |