19 Day Signature Showcase
What to expect
What's Included
- Kauri Museum
- Waitangi Treaty Grounds
- Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise
- Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tour and Lunch
- Skyline Rotorua Gondola and Luge Ride
- Agrodome
- Thermal mud pools and geysers
- Te Puia traditional Māori Hāngi and Concert
- Te Papa, NZ's National Museum
- Hawke's Bay Express
- Cruise on the Interislander Ferry
- TranzAlpine Rail Journey
- Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw
- Lakes District Museum
- Milford Sound Cruise and Lunch
- Larnach Castle and Devonshire Tea
- Auckland City Sights Tour
- Napier City Sights Tour
- Wellington City Sights Tour
- Christchurch City Sights Tour
- Dunedin City Sights Tour
Departure Date
Select your preferred date or enquire
Your Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive Auckland
On arrival in Auckland, you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening enjoy a complimentary pre-dinner drink when you meet your Tour Leader and travelling companions for dinner.
4 Star Plus Accommodation
Nestled in the vibrant heart of downtown Auckland, Crowne Plaza Auckland offers a truly magnificent experience infused with kiwi charm. Explore the enchanting ‘city of sails’ from the inside out thanks to the great location. After an exciting day of sightseeing, retreat to the comfort of your spacious room, meticulously designed to cater for the modern traveller.
Day 2 - Auckland - Bay of Islands
Depart Auckland and travel to Matakohe for a visit and informative talk at the Kauri Museum. Travel via Whangarei to Paihia, situated in the heart of the beautiful Bay of Islands. Enjoy a guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the location of the signing of the treaty between the Māori tribes and the British Government in 1840.
4 Star Accommodation
Any time of year is ideal for escaping to the Bay of Islands in the ‘Winterless North’, and this property, situated at the entrance to the seaside town of Paihia, is the perfect resort-style retreat.
The island-influenced architecture with expansive sub-tropical gardens, water features, extensive guest facilities and easy walking access to Paihia’s main local attractions makes this 4-star Hotel a standout.
Day 3 - Bay of Islands (Free Day)
Today is a free day. Choose from the many optional activities available, including the Cape Reinga coach trip via Ninety Mile Beach or a spectacular scenic flight. This evening is also free, you may like to enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise (optional).
4 Star Accommodation
Any time of year is ideal for escaping to the Bay of Islands in the ‘Winterless North’, and this property, situated at the entrance to the seaside town of Paihia, is the perfect resort-style retreat.
The island-influenced architecture with expansive sub-tropical gardens, water features, extensive guest facilities and easy walking access to Paihia’s main local attractions makes this 4-star Hotel a standout.
Day 4 - Bay of Islands - Auckland
This morning cruise through the beautiful Bay of Islands to Cape Brett, where a historic lighthouse keeps watch over Piercy Island, or as it is popularly known, the ‘Hole in the Rock’. Keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine life. Return to Paihia and travel south via Whangarei to Auckland. This evening is free to explore the local eateries surrounding your hotel.
4 Star Plus Accommodation
Nestled in the vibrant heart of downtown Auckland, Crowne Plaza Auckland offers a truly magnificent experience infused with kiwi charm. Explore the enchanting ‘city of sails’ from the inside out thanks to the great location. After an exciting day of sightseeing, retreat to the comfort of your spacious room, meticulously designed to cater for the modern traveller.
Day 5 - Auckland - Rotorua
This morning, enjoy a city sights tour before departing Auckland. Journey through the picturesque countryside to Hobbiton for a buffet lunch. A guided tour of the 12-acre set, will take you past whimsical Hobbit Holes, the Mill and into the Green Dragon Inn. You can now venture beyond the door and into an authentic Hobbit Hole interior for a fully immersive experience.
4 Star Plus Accommodation
Situated in the heart of the city and moments away from the lakefront, Pullman Rotorua is the perfect base to explore the region’s geothermal paradise.
A Pullman stay is an entire experience with 130 luxurious rooms and suites, energising gym, vibrant dining and a chic bar. Pullman is surrounded by surreal scenery and iconic attractions. Discover shooting geysers, bubbling mud pools, natural hot springs and magical forests.
Experience a contemporary open-plan room design inspired by the region’s geothermal origins. Windows let in the daylight and views overlooking the vibrant city. The room features a plush Pullman king-size bed and local artwork.
Day 6 - Rotorua
Today begins with a gondola ride and breakfast at Skyline Rotorua. There is also time for a thrilling luge ride! Next stop is the Agrodome for an action-packed hour of farming entertainment and education that is unlike anything you’ve seen before. Enjoy some free time this afternoon before travelling to Te Puia to see the boiling mud pools and awesome geysers that Rotorua is famous for. This evening experience an entertaining Māori Hāngi and Concert.
4 Star Plus Accommodation
Situated in the heart of the city and moments away from the lakefront, Pullman Rotorua is the perfect base to explore the region’s geothermal paradise.
A Pullman stay is an entire experience with 130 luxurious rooms and suites, energising gym, vibrant dining and a chic bar. Pullman is surrounded by surreal scenery and iconic attractions. Discover shooting geysers, bubbling mud pools, natural hot springs and magical forests.
Experience a contemporary open-plan room design inspired by the region’s geothermal origins. Windows let in the daylight and views overlooking the vibrant city. The room features a plush Pullman king-size bed and local artwork.
Day 7 - Rotorua - Napier
Depart Rotorua and travel along the Thermal Explorer Highway to Huka Falls and Lake Taupo. Continue to Napier known as ‘The Art Deco Capital’, where the most comprehensive collection of art deco buildings in the world can be found. Board the Hawke’s Bay Express and hear informative commentary on the city’s fascinating history. Enjoy some free time this afternoon to explore the city.
4 Star Accommodation
Hawke's Bay is one of the first places in the world to see the light each day and the Scenic Hotel Te Pania is one of the most recognisable hotels in Napier, boasting design awards for its style and service, situated on the premium waterfront location on Marine Parade. The hotel’s slender curved form echoes the shape of the bay. A fresh, contemporary style hotel that is only a short stroll from Napier’s main art deco style street and is located in close proximity to many of Napier's attractions.
Day 8 - Napier - Wellington
This morning, travel south to Wellington for a city tour of New Zealand’s capital, showcasing its rich history and vibrant culture. After arriving at your central hotel, you’ll have time at leisure to explore the sights, stroll down to the harbour, or relax before rejoining your group for dinner.
4 Star Accommodation
The James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor presents an engaging selection of rooms, thoughtful amenities and gracious hospitality from the heart of Wellington’s city centre. Recently refurbished this leading accommodation and venue provider is located on The Terrace in New Zealand’s thriving capital city nearby to all major attractions. You will stay in rooms which are located on the higher floors and showcase contemporary furnishings, deluxe bathrooms with walk-in showers and Antipodes amenities.
Day 9 - Wellington - Picton - Blenheim
A highlight this morning will be time to explore Gallipoli: A Scale of War exhibition at Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum. Cutting edge technology brings these stories to life through the eyes of New Zealanders who found themselves in extraordinary circumstances. This afternoon board the Interislander Ferry and enjoy the scenery as you travel through the Marlborough Sounds to Picton. Board your coach for the short journey to Blenheim.
4 Star Plus Accommodation
Magnificently located in the heart of Marlborough Wine country, the place famous for its world class Sauvignon Blancs, the Scenic Hotel Marlborough is a property sparkling with style and comfort. This pristine hotel offers guests the ultimate in modern comfort and service all within a minutes’ walk from the centre of Blenheim.
Day 10 - Blenheim - Kaikōura - Christchurch
Tour through Marlborough Country, famous for its food and wine, then travel to the seaside village of Kaikōura. Continue onto the garden city of Christchurch for a city sights tour.
4.5 Star Accommodation
Standing amongst the buzz of the rejuvenated Cathedral Square, the Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanic Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. This 11 storey, 4.5 star hotel offers elegant rooms which combine luxury and relaxation for all holidaymakers. These spacious air-conditioned hotel rooms include the latest technology as well as double glazed windows to ensure a restful night’s sleep. An ensuite bathroom with shower over bath and complimentary Distinction toiletries.
Day 11 - Christchurch - Arthur’s Pass - Franz Josef
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 as you ascend to Arthur’s Pass located in the centre of the Southern Alps. Board your coach and travel to Hokitika, famous for its Greenstone before continuing to the township of Franz Josef where time is available to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the spectacular glaciers.
4 Star Accommodation
Only a breath away from the spectacular Franz Josef Glacier, in the heart of the village and edge of the Westland World Heritage Park, lies the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier offering everything you need to explore this dramatic region in style and comfort. The professional and friendly staff pride themselves on making your stay enjoyable and comfortable.
Day 12 - Franz Josef - Queenstown
See the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel south along the West Coast to Fox Glacier township. Continue via the Haast Pass, an area of stunning beauty before arriving into picturesque Queenstown, a year-round resort situated on the shores of magical Lake Wakatipu. This evening is free to dine out at one of the many fine restaurants.
4 Star Plus Accommodation
Right in the heart of the action, Millennium Hotel Queenstown is just minutes from Queenstown central shopping and entertainment district, Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown Gardens. Millennium Hotel Queenstown is a 4-star plus and Enviro-Gold Qualmark rated hotel. All rooms at Millennium Hotel Queenstown are designed for complete relaxation with its inviting bed and cosy ambience, it’s a good nights rest for sure.
Day 13 - Queenstown (Free Day)
Today is a free day to explore Queenstown. You may wish to enjoy the thrill of a jet boat ride (optional) or a heritage tour of the scenic Skippers Canyon (optional). This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back and enjoy a delicious gourmet barbecue dinner featuring seasonal, fresh and locally sourced food at the Colonel’s Homestead. After dinner enjoy a short farm tour then reboard the TSS Earnslaw for a sing along by the piano as you cruise back to Queenstown.
4 Star Plus Accommodation
Right in the heart of the action, Millennium Hotel Queenstown is just minutes from Queenstown central shopping and entertainment district, Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown Gardens. Millennium Hotel Queenstown is a 4-star plus and Enviro-Gold Qualmark rated hotel. All rooms at Millennium Hotel Queenstown are designed for complete relaxation with its inviting bed and cosy ambience, it’s a good nights rest for sure.
Day 14 - Queenstown - Te Anau
Enjoy a leisurely start this morning before travelling to Arrowtown, an old gold mining village where you visit the Lakes District Museum. Continue to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland. Today you may like to visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves (optional).
4 Star Accommodation
Conveniently located in the heart of Te Anau's town shopping centre and a short stroll from the South Island’s largest lake - Lake Te Anau. Escape into the serene surroundings of Distinction Luxmore Hotel before heading out to explore the world-famous beauty of Fiordland including Milford Sound. Stay in rooms which are well appointed and modern with a Fiordland interior design theme. The hotel offers an excellent standard of service and the team at Distinction Luxmore will make your stay in Te Anau comfortable and enjoyable.
Day 15 - Te Anau - Milford Sound - Te Anau
Depart Te Anau for a fascinating drive to Milford Sound where you board your launch for a cruise on this magnificent fiord. See the spectacular Bowen Falls and towering Mitre Peak as you enjoy lunch onboard. This afternoon return to Te Anau where some free time is available. You might like to cap off your Fiordland experience by watching the breathtaking film, Ata Whenua - Shadowland, which screens at the Fiordland Cinema (optional).
4 Star Accommodation
Conveniently located in the heart of Te Anau's town shopping centre and a short stroll from the South Island’s largest lake - Lake Te Anau. Escape into the serene surroundings of Distinction Luxmore Hotel before heading out to explore the world-famous beauty of Fiordland including Milford Sound. Stay in rooms which are well appointed and modern with a Fiordland interior design theme. The hotel offers an excellent standard of service and the team at Distinction Luxmore will make your stay in Te Anau comfortable and enjoyable.
Day 16 - Te Anau - Dunedin
Travel via Gore and Balclutha to Dunedin known as the ‘Edinburgh of the South’ and enjoy a city tour. Travel along the Otago Peninsula to Larnach Castle where you will hear of the tragic and scandalous history on a guided tour. Enjoy a delicious Devonshire Tea and take time to wander around this Garden of International Significance.
4 Star Accommodation
The Scenic Hotel Southern Cross is Dunedin’s largest and most established hotel boasting rooms and suites with modern style, convenience and exceptional service. Just a short walk from the Octagon, railway station and close to Otago university, this perfectly located stylish inner city accommodation has everything you need for a relaxing and memorable stay.
Day 17 - Dunedin - Mt Cook - Twizel
Farewell Dunedin and travel to Oamaru famous for its limestone. Follow the Waitaki River as you marvel at Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. The opportunity is available to enjoy a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the Southern Alps. Travel to Twizel for your overnight stay.
4 Star Accommodation
Located in the heart of the Mackenzie region, a unique area of New Zealand's South Island where mountains meet the riverbeds sits a true country oasis. The Distinction Mackenzie Country features natural stonework and architecture that beautifully reflects and compliments the surrounding landscape. The hotel offers comfortably furnished guest rooms all featuring their own private balcony or patio from which to soak in the glorious mountain views. Featuring natural stone, roaring fires and expansive lawns, the Distinction Mackenzie Country is the ultimate place to unwind after a day experiencing the activities and sights the region has to offer.
Day 18 - Twizel - Christchurch
Continue to Lake Tekapo and view the brilliant turquoise water, the Church of the Good Shepherd and the Sheep Dog Statue before arriving in Christchurch. This evening enjoy a pre-dinner drink and reminisce on memories shared with your new friends at the farewell dinner.
4.5 Star Accommodation
Standing amongst the buzz of the rejuvenated Cathedral Square, the Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanic Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. This 11 storey, 4.5 star hotel offers elegant rooms which combine luxury and relaxation for all holidaymakers. These spacious air-conditioned hotel rooms include the latest technology as well as double glazed windows to ensure a restful night’s sleep. An ensuite bathroom with shower over bath and complimentary Distinction toiletries.
Day 19 - Depart Christchurch
Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.
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