Overseas Adventure Travel - Enhanced! Pure New Zealand 2021 - Overseas Adventure Travel
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YOUR O.A.T. ADVENTURE TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE®
Enhanced! Pure New Zealand
2021
Learn how to personalize your experience on this adventure
Small Groups: 8-16 travelers—guaranteed! (average of 13)
®
Overseas Adventure Travel
The Leader in Personalized Small Group Adventures on the Road Less Traveled
1
®
Overseas Adventure Travel
347 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210
Dear Traveler,
While we may not be physically able to travel at the moment, the act of planning—or even just dreaming—always
gives my spirits a boost.
At O.A.T., we’re already planning for the day when we can resume our travels. We’re working closely with our
Trip Experience Leaders and regional offices around the world to implement a number of measures to give
you greater peace of mind—because your health and safety is our top priority. Inside, you’ll learn more about
the NEW specific precautions we are taking, including whispers headsets to support social distancing.
I hope this O.A.T. Adventure Travel Planning Guide inspires you to join us on our Pure New Zealand adventure,
to go beyond the iconic sites and into the true heart of New Zealand thanks to our small groups of just
8-16 travelers (with an average of 13). Plus, a New Zealand Trip Experience Leader will reveal their
country’s hidden wonders and help us discover its essence like only an insider can. And our local regional
office in Auckland is staffed with an experienced team of associates ready to help in case any unexpected
circumstances arise.
Throughout our explorations, we’ll meet local people to get an intimate glimpse into the real New Zealand,
not just a surface view. As we join a family in their home for a Home-Hosted Lunch, we’ll get an intimate
glimpse into daily life in the Waikato region, and savor the flavors of traditional Kiwi cuisine. And, we’ll
immerse ourselves in indigenous Maori culture during a traditional welcome ceremony and as we set off on a
Tamaki Hikoi —an O.A.T.-exclusive walking tour led by a guide from the Ngati Whatua tribe. Plus, a portion of
our proceeds goes toward the charitable efforts of Grand Circle Foundation—see inside for more details on
how your travel dollar helps make the world a better place.
We understand that no two people are the same. That’s why more than 80% of our travelers take advantage
of the freedom to personalize their experience. Join the 56% of travelers who extend their time abroad. Add
the pre-trip extension to Australia: Sydney, Great Barrier Reef & Palm Cove, post-trip extension to New Zealand:
Paihia, Bay of Islands & Auckland, or both of these extensions to your New Zealand adventure.
I hope you find this O.A.T. Adventure Travel Planning Guide helpful. If you have any further questions, don’t
hesitate to contact one of our Adventure Specialists at 1-800-955-1925.
Warm regards,
Harriet R. Lewis
Vice Chairman
Overseas Adventure Travel
2
WHAT’S INSIDE
TRIP SUMMARY
Health & Safety Measures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
It’s Included . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Departure Dates and Prices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Leader in Solo-Friendly Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Grand Circle Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Freedom to Personalize Your Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
DETAILED DAY-TO-DAY ITINERARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
ESSENTIAL TRAVEL INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Travel Documents & Entry Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Rigors, Vaccines & General Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Money Matters: Local Currency & Tipping Guidelines . . . . . . . 51
Air, Optional Tours & Staying in Touch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Packing: What to Bring & Luggage Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Climate & Average Temperatures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
About Your Destinations: Culture, Etiquette & More . . . . . . . . 67
Demographics & History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Resources: Suggested Reading & Movies . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
MAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
3
What to Expect When
We Travel Again
Health and safety measures on our adventures
The health and safety of our travelers is always our #1 priority and we understand travelers are concerned about
traveling abroad in light of the unprecedented crisis we are currently facing. For that reason, we wanted to share
with you the specific measures we are taking on our Small Group Adventures to support social distancing and give
our travelers greater peace of mind when we begin to travel again. We are working with our 36 regional offices
and more than 2,500 regional associates and Trip Experience Leaders around the world, as well as listening to
feedback from our travelers to create and update these new health and safety protocols. We will be addressing
each of our adventures and making specific updates to each itinerary to ensure the safety of our travelers.
TRAVELER SCREENING PROCESS & SAFETY FACE COVERINGS & HAND SANITIZER
MEASURES PRIOR TO ARRIVAL IN FIRST • N95 face masks (or the equivalent in the country), gloves,
DESTINATION ON ADVENTURE and hand sanitizer will be provided to all travelers
• Your Trip Experience Leader will contact you throughout the adventure, however travelers can bring
approximately 3 weeks prior to departure to introduce their own preferred face covering and hand sanitizer
himself or herself and provide you with specific from home.
information regarding updated safety and health
measures and protocols you can expect on your adventure. NEW: WHISPERS HEADSETS
• Whispers will now be provided for all included features
• The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has and activities to support social distancing—and remain
updated its security screening procedures, including with each traveler for the entire trip.
increasing the distance between travelers as they enter
security check points, requiring travelers to return to the • Whispers will be thoroughly sanitized before the trip
area outside of security if prohibited items are found, and begins and alcohol wipes will be provided for personal
having travelers scan their own boarding passes. daily sanitizing.
• Many airlines and airports have specific safety
INCLUDED FEATURES & ACTIVITIES
procedures they are following, so travelers are
• All included features and activities to popular locations
encouraged to check with their airline prior to their
or sites will be rearranged to avoid large crowds—this
adventure and arrive at the airport early as these
may mean that we will arrive early or visit the location
updated protocols will add more time to check in and
later in the day.
security check points.
• Travelers will be broken into smaller groups as needed
TRAVELER SCREENING UPON ARRIVAL AT for Home-Hosted meals to support social distancing.
FIRST DESTINATION ON ADVENTURE
• All travelers will have their temperature checked at the • Our local regional offices have carefully selected
airport by an O.A.T. representative or Trip Experience included features and activities with a focus on the
Leader using a non-contact infrared temperature safety of our travelers, however all included features and
scanner before transferring to the first accommodation activities are optional, so travelers can choose whether
or lodging on their adventure. to participate in an activity or explore on their own.
4
• Our Trip Experience Leaders will offer alternate • All adventures will feature smaller restaurants to
options if a traveler chooses not to participate in an support social distancing and whenever possible,
included feature. our small group will be the only diners present
during the meal.
LOCAL TRANSPORTATION & COACHES
• To promote social distancing when dining in local
• All local transportation and coaches will operate at
restaurants, our group may be separated into smaller
approximately half the vehicle’s capacity.
groups and each dine in a different restaurant.
• All coaches will be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized
• Items usually shared, like bread and butter or salt and
with disinfectant before each use.
pepper, will be served to each person individually
upon request.
• The driver will have his or her temperature
checked daily.
SCREENING PROCESS & SAFETY MEASURES
ACCOMMODATIONS & LODGING FOR TRIP EXPERIENCE LEADERS
• Our local regional offices have carefully selected your • Health screenings of Trip Experience Leaders, including
accommodations by city or town on our adventures a COVID-19 test, will be completed before joining the
because of their high standards for quality. adventure.
• In some instances, we have changed accommodations • All Trip Experience Leaders will be trained on health and
or lodgings to better ensure the health and safety of safety protocols to follow during the adventure.
our travelers. We will continue to make updates to our
accommodations and lodgings as needed to ensure the • All Trip Experience Leaders will check his or her
highest quality of service and safety for our travelers. temperature daily.
• Our local regional offices will contact each • Your Trip Experience Leader will be available to you 24/7,
accommodation or lodging prior to our small group’s with the support of our local regional office.
arrival to ensure enhanced safety and health protocols
for cleaning and sanitization of rooms, public areas, and • Your Trip Experience Leader will be prepared to make
elevators have been properly followed. adjustments to the itinerary as needed during the
adventure.
• Your Trip Experience Leader will contact you shortly
after check in to ensure you are comfortable with the We will do all we can to ensure our travelers’ safety and
cleanliness and sanitization of your room. health while on our adventures, but we need your help.
We expect travelers to follow best health and hygiene
• The staff at all of our accommodations and lodgings practices to prevent the spread of illness as well—from
will have 24/7 access to a doctor or medical staff, should washing your hands regularly, covering your mouth when
medical assistance be needed. coughing or sneezing, and following social distancing
guidelines. By working together, we can create a safer
travel experience for everyone.
LOCAL RESTAURANTS
• Whenever possible, meals in restaurants will be
individually plated and served.
• Buffet breakfasts will still be available and the dining
staff will follow best health and hygiene practices to
ensure food safety and prevent the spread of illness.
Learn more at www.oattravel.com/health-safety-guidelines
5
Lower prices than last year—a value of $1200 per couple
Enhanced! Pure New Zealand
Small Group Adventure
New Zealand: Auckland, Rotorua, Christchurch, Dunedin, Milford Sound, Queenstown
Countries: 1 | Cities: 6 | 1pĢėĞŶmĢķĕŋũùŋŽłù!ũŽĢŭā̵
Small groups: 8-16 travelers—guaranteed! It’s Included
(average of 13)
• International airfare, airport transfers, • 14 small group activities
17 days from $ 5495 government taxes, fees, and airline fuel
surcharges unless you choose to make
your own air arrangements
• Explore in a small group of 8-16
travelers (average group size of 13)
Includes international airfare
Travel from only $324 a day • All land transportation and 3 • Services of a local O.A.T. Trip
Experience Leader
internal flights
• Gratuities for local guides, drivers, and
15 days from $ 3695 • Accommodations for 14 nights luggage porters
Without international airfare • 29 meals—14 breakfasts, 8 lunches, • 5% Frequent Traveler Credit
and 7 dinners (including 1 Home-
toward your next adventure—an
FREE Single Supplement Hosted Dinner)
average of $417
Maximize Your To get a richer view of the Included Features on this adventure,
Discoveries & Value watch our Trip Itinerary video at www.oattravel.com/nzo2021
Optional extensions:
Australia: The Great Barrier Reef
& Highlights of Sydney
6 nights pre-trip from $2495
Travel from only $416 per night
New Zealand’s Bay of Islands
3 nights post-trip from $1295
Travel from only $432 per night
Milford Sound, New Zealand
Pure New Zealand
6
Pure New Zealand RISK-FREE BOOKING POLICY: RESERVE WITH
CONFIDENCE—NOW THROUGH 12/31/21
We will waive any change fees if you transfer to another departure date for
2021 Dates & Prices any reason—up until 24 hours prior to departure.
See details at www.oattravel.com/riskfree-booking.
SEP 19-26; OCTOBER-
DEPART FROM APRIL SEP 10 DEC 3-9 NOVEMBER DEC 12-20
Los Angeles, San Francisco $5595 $5495 $5795 $5995 $6095
Houston $5795 $5695 $5995 $6195 $6295
Phoenix, San Diego $5895 $5795 $6095 $6295 $6395
Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Portland,
$5995 $5895 $6195 $6395 $6495
Seattle
Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Detroit,
Miami, Minneapolis, New York, Newark,
$6095 $5995 $6295 $6495 $6595
Orlando, Philadelphia, Tampa,
Washington, DC
Additional departure cities are available. Upgrade to Business Class may be available for the international portion of your flight. Call for details.
APRIL; SEP 19-26 SEP 10 OCTOBER; DEC 3-9 NOVEMBER DEC 12-20
Without international airfare $3995 $3895 $4195 $4395 $3695
NZO2021
Prices are per person. Airfare prices include government taxes, fees, and airline fuel surcharges. All prices and availability are effective as of the date of this
publication, and are subject to change without notice. Standard Terms & Conditions apply, please visit our website: www.oattravel.com/tc. Every effort has been
made to produce this information accurately. We reserve the right to correct errors.
A visa is required for entry into Australia on the post extension. You will receive application information after you reserve.
For specific departure dates, current availability, and detailed pricing, visit www.oattravel.com/nzo2021pricing
SAVE UP TO 10% WITH FREE SINGLE SUPPLEMENTS
OUR GOOD BUY PLAN SHARE YOUR LOVE OF TRAVEL
We offer FREE Single Supplements on all
New travelers you refer will instantly save
The earlier you reserve your departure of our adventures and pre- and post-trip $100, and you’ll earn increasing rewards—
and pay in full, the more you’ll save—up extensions. up to a FREE trip!
to 10%—plus, you’ll lock in your price. Each departure has limited solo space
For details, visit www.oattravel.com/va
For details, visit www.oattravel.com/gbd available—call today to reserve.
Publication Date 12/21/20
Information & Reservations 1-800-955-1925 www.oattravel.com/nzo2021
7
Leader in Solo-Friendly
Travel
Solo traveler with young women in Sarajevo, Bosnia
The leader in solo-friendly travel for Americans—by the numbers
More than 50,000 15,000 single More than 90% of 51 exclusive women’s
solo travelers joined us spaces with a FREE solo women travelers departures featured on
in the past two years— or low-cost Single rated their adventure 25 of our most popular
on their own or with a Supplement in 2021—a excellent adventures—10 of
friend or relative 76% increase from 2019 which are single-only
departures
8
WHO IS A SOLO TRAVELER? EXCLUSIVE WOMEN’S DEPARTURES
Traveling solo doesn’t necessarily mean traveling alone— There’s something special about traveling in a group of
some travelers opt to bring a friend or family member just women. Maybe it’s the camaraderie and friendships
along for the adventure, sharing accommodations and that form when women meet other women who share
discoveries. Others prefer exploring on their own, with their passion for travel. Or maybe it’s how, in a group
the security and camaraderie group travel provides. of their peers, women feel supported and confident
However you choose to see the world, you can feel to take risks and try new things as they explore. In
confident when exploring with the leader in solo- recognition of the special solidarity that often develops
friendly travel among our women travelers, we are offering 51 exclusive
women’s departures of our popular adventures. These
FREE SINGLE SUPPLEMENTS 2021 departures provide intrepid women travelers
an opportunity to connect with one another while
We’re committed to supporting our solo travelers who
experiencing local culture in a variety of destinations
want to explore the world, so we offer limited FREE
including Israel, Morocco, and more. Alongside a female
Single Supplements on all Small Group Adventures,
Trip Experience Leader on most of these adventures, you’ll
every trip extension, and our Stopovers, too. Plus, we’ve
delve into the heart and soul of your destination—from a
increased the number of single spaces to 18,000 on 2021
woman’s point of view. Together, you’ll share meaningful
departures—a 23% increase from 2019. See details at
moments, whether you’re helping with a student’s lessons
www.oattravel.com/solo.
at a local school, engaging in a spontaneous conversation
with a female artisan as you browse through a craft
YOU’LL ALWAYS FEEL SAFE AND SECURE market during your free time, and beyond.
With 36 regional offices around the world, your safety
and security is our first priority. Our regional associates
know your adventure inside and out, and are ready to help
should the need arise. And a local Trip Experience Leader Recent Awards
is there to ensure you always feel part of the group.
They’re great at organizing activities to help develop
camaraderie among all group members.
TRAVEL AMONG FRIENDS
Small groups of 8-16 travelers (average of 13) are ideal
for connecting with fellow travelers. Since three out of
eight travelers explore with us solo, you’re sure to forge USA Today “Best Tours”
special bonds as you experience the world. 10Best Readers’ Presented by
Choice Awards Solo Traveler
Solo travelers at Nijo Castle, Kyoto, Japan
9
Changing People's Lives
One village, one school, one person at a time
Dear Traveler,
In 1992 we established Grand Circle Foundation, an entity
of the Lewis Family Foundation, as a means to give back to
the world that had already given us so much. We’ve pledged
or donated more than $200 million worldwide to support
the education of young people and the preservation of
international treasures and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Of course, none of this would be possible without your
help. A portion of our proceeds is donated to Grand Circle
Foundation—so just as your life will be enriched by the
discoveries you’ll make on your journey, you’ll also help to
enrich the lives of the people you’ll meet along the way.
Thank you for traveling with us, and for helping to change
people’s lives.
Love and peace,
Harriet R. Lewis
Chair
Grand Circle Foundation
Students at St. Mary's Primary School,
Hwange, Zimbabwe
10GIVING BACK TO THE WORLD WE TRAVEL
By bringing cultures together and teaching us about
our shared humanity, travel has the power to change
the world, one heart at a time. When determining how
we can help the people, schools and communities we
visit, we always ask for the wisdom of local leadership
and the involvement of the community to ensure we
are providing what is needed. We currently support 109
schools and organizations in 59 countries.
JOIN OUR GENEROUS TRAVELERS
We consider each and every one of our travelers to
be partners in our worldwide giving. Some travelers,
however, are so inspired by the schools and villages
they visit, they are compelled to give more. In fact,
our travelers have donated more than $1 million in
2019 alone.
Giving Back in
BETTER OUR OWN COMMUNITIES— Different Ways
ALL AROUND THE WORLD Support from the Grand Circle Foundation takes many
In addition to the destinations where we travel, we forms—and is based on what's needed most. In one
strive to better the communities where we work—from school alone in Tanzania, we have completed projects
our headquarters in Boston to our 36 offices around ranging from providing a new water system and building a
the world. In Boston, more than 99% of our associates new girl's dormitory to installing a solar powered electric
participate in community service each year. Worldwide, fence to prevent elephants from wandering through
nearly all of our offices organize annual community the school grounds. And in Morocco, we partnered
service events of their own. with the Imik Smik Women’s Center of Aït Benhaddou
after learning about the efforts of the 13 women who
wanted a place built where they could gather together
to develop new skills to improve their lives, and gain
some independence in this traditionally male-dominated
region. We were thrilled to provide funds that enabled
construction to begin on this worthy project.
How you can help
• Donate to a school or village that inspired you during
your travels. Because we charge no administration
fee, 100% of your donation will be used to help change
Learn more about the many ways people’s lives.
we help change lives together at
• To learn more about ongoing Foundation projects,
www.grandcirclefoundation.org you can sign up for our weekly e-newsletter, the Inside
Scoop, at www.oattravel.com/community/the-inside-
scoop. When you do, you’ll not only receive updates
on Grand Circle Foundation, but the latest news and
discoveries on all things Grand Circle and Overseas
Adventure Travel.
11Freedom to Personalize Your Experience
Your Choice, Your Adventure, Your Way
We recommend you spend extra time in a destination to truly make your adventure everything you’ve ever dreamed about—in fact, 85% of our
travelers are personalizing their experience in more than 85 countries. Call us at 1-800-955-1925 to discuss personalizing your adventure
today or visit us online at www.oattravel.com/personalize-nzo2021.
āƩłāÈŋŽũRùāÖķdāłėŶĞŋĕŶÖƘ̝arrive early,
' Please note: Our Adventure Specialists can help you plan your airfare if you’d
stay later & more like to “break away,” however since this option is completely on your own, you
will need to plan your own accommodations, meals, tours, and transfers.
Extending your time in a destination can improve your overall travel
experience—and allow you to seek out even more eye-opening 2-night Stopover in Auckland from $495: More than 7,000 travelers
cultural interactions. Your local Trip Experience Leader will help to arrive early
ensure you’re getting the personalized experiences you’re looking Arrive early in Auckland for a fresh start before your main adventure.
for. With their unmatched understanding of New Zealand’s culture, An O.A.T. representative will meet you at the airport in Auckland and
it’ll be no surprise to you that 94% of our travelers rate their Trip assist with transfer into the city for two nights in a centrally-located
Experience Leader excellent. hotel with daily breakfast—the rest is up to you.
From extending your travels—whether with us or on your own—to Back-to-Back Adventures: 90% of travelers who combined two
building in time to ensure a smooth beginning and end to your Small trips anywhere in the world rated it excellent
Group Adventure, the choice is yours. Here are some of your options: One of the most common adventures travelers combine with this
Maximize Your Time & Value: 55% of travelers take an extension one is Ultimate Australia, so we created our 30-day Australia &
Trip extensions give you more time, allowing you to get refreshed New Zealand: An Adventure Down Under, a combination of the two
and acclimated before your adventure begins or before your return trips. If you’re already overseas, why not see more of the world and
to the U.S. On this adventure, you have two extensions to choose avoid another international flight? Plus, you’ll save up to $3100 by
from, including Australia: The Great Barrier Reef & Highlights of combining our Australia and New Zealand trips.
Sydney and New Zealand’s Bay of Islands.
ũĢƑÖŶāùƑāłŶŽũāŭ̆¦ũÖƑāķĢłÖłāƗóķŽŭĢƑāėũŋŽťŋĕÖŭ
“Break Away” Options: 30% of travelers spend more time abroad
ĕāƒÖŭ˓
Before or after your main adventure or trip extension, “break away”
anywhere you’d like to go to do more exploring entirely on your Reserve an exclusive departure with your friends and family. It’s
own. Extend your time abroad with the following options: simple: You choose the people you travel with, the departure date, and
the size of your group. O.A.T. does the rest.
• Spend more time in Auckland before, or in Queenstown after,
your adventure
ĢũzťŶĢŋłŭ̆mŋũāŶĞÖł˔ˏͮŋĕŶũÖƑāķāũŭóŽŭŶŋĿĢơā
• Stay overnight (or for a few days) in a common connecting city on
ŶĞāĢũƪĢėĞŶŭ
this adventure, or in a destination of your choice
• Choose your departure city and airline
• Depart from one city and return to another
• Upgrade your seat or choose a specific meal option
Pure New Zealand Palm Cove, Australia Auckland, New Zealand
12Overseas
Adventure Travel SM
Since 1978
Pure New Zealand
2021
17-Day Small Group Adventure
EXTEND YOUR TRIP
PRE-TRIP
Australia: The Great Barrier Reef & Highlights of Sydney
POST-TRIP
New Zealand’s Bay of Islands
Your Day-to-Day Itinerary
13OVERSEAS ADVENTURE TRAVEL
Overseas Adventure Travel, founded in 1978, is America’s leading adventure travel company. The New
York Times, Condé Nast Traveler, The Los Angeles Times, Travel + Leisure, The Wall Street Journal, US News
& World Report, and others have recommended O.A.T. trips. But our most impressive reviews come from
our customers: Thousands of travelers have joined our trips, and 95% of them say they’d gladly travel
with us again, and recommend us to their friends.
A WORD ABOUT ADVENTURE TRAVEL
,Q1HZ=HDODQGIDFLOLWLHVIRUWUDYHOHUVDUHPXFKDVWKH\DUHLQWKH86:HHQMR\WKHEHQHͫWVRIWKLV
well-developed infrastructure even as we venture off the beaten path to explore the unique natural
beauty and history of this island nation.
This program has a dual natural and cultural focus, with much of our time spent outdoors. Our
adventurous approach to exploring New Zealand differs from more conventional tours in several ways.
Our group size is limited to 16, allowing for a special camaraderie and a more personal experience at
each site that we visit. Even in cities, we take an active approach to touring that immerses us more fully
in the local scene, often walking 3-5 miles a day.
As we go on to explore New Zealand’s more remote natural wonders, you can choose the level of
physical challenge you want. You can see plenty at a moderate pace, or choose to pick up the pace
with elective activities. Overall, to enjoy this trip, you need an open curiosity, good health, and an
adventurous spirit.
INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE
» International airfare, airport transfers, » Explore in a small group of 8-16 travelers
government taxes, fees, and airline fuel (average group size of 13)
surcharges unless you choose to make your » Services of a local O.A.T. Trip
own air arrangements Experience Leader
» $OOODQGWUDQVSRUWDWLRQDQGLQWHUQDOͬLJKWV » Gratuities for local guides, drivers, and
» Accommodations for 14 nights luggage porters
» 29 meals—14 breakfasts, 8 lunches, and 7 » 5% Frequent Traveler Credit toward your
dinners (including 1 Home-Hosted Dinner) next adventure—an average of $417
» 14 small group activities
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
14WHAT THIS TRIP IS LIKE
PACING » Travel by 19-passenger coach and 20-150
» 6 locations in 15 days with one 1-night stay; passenger boats
LQWHUQDOͬLJKWRIDERXWKRXUV GULYHV » 4 overland drives 2-8 hours long; 3
of 2-8 hours LQWHUQDOͬLJKWV
» ,QWHUQDWLRQDOͬLJKWVIURP/RV$QJHOHV » 2 cruises of 45 minutes-2 hours
to Auckland depart around midnight,
losing one day en route as you cross the ACCOMMODATIONS & FACILITIES
International Date Line, regained on the » Hotel rooms are smaller than those in the
UHWXUQWULSDQGLQWHUQDOͬLJKWVUHTXLUH U.S. and offer simple amenities
early wake ups
» All accommodations feature
» Airport transfers in Auckland and private bathrooms
Wellington take approximately 1 hour
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
» Not appropriate for travelers using
wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids
» You must be able to walk 2-3 miles
unassisted and participate in 4-6 hours of
physical activities each day
» Agility and balance are required for
embarking boats in Milford Sound
» We reserve the right for Trip Experience
Leaders to restrict participation, or in some
circumstances send travelers home, if their
limitations impact the group’s experience
CLIMATE
» Daytime temperatures range from 40-80°F
depending on time of year
» New Zealand’s climate is mostly
temperate: December-February are the
warmest months, May-September are the
coolest months; weather conditions can
change quickly
TERRAIN & TRANSPORTATION
» We’ll travel over city streets on foot, with
occasional uphill walks along uneven glacial
and rocky mountain terrain
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
15Pure New Zealand
2021
Travel to New Zealand, where hot springs contrast with icy glaciers and snowcapped peaks pierce the
sky. Behold Milford Sound’s crystalline fjord from the comfort of an overnight cruise—a newly added
feature—where mighty peaks and roaring waterfalls beckon ... trace Victorian history through the streets of
Dunedin—a new destination for 2021—and walk among clouds of steam, spouting geysers, and bubbling
mud pools in Rotorua’s geothermal wonderland during our extra time in the city, a NEW feature. We’ll
LPPHUVHRXUVHOYHVLQWKLVPDJQLͫFHQWVHWWLQJIURPWKH1RUWK,VODQGWRWKH6RXWK,VODQGDVZHGLVFRYHU
treasures as distinct as they are unforgettable. Throughout our adventure, we’ll discover the Maori traditions
at the heart of the land, and the Maori people who still call this home.
There’s no better way to experience this beauty than in the pure open air, and O.A.T.’s New Zealand travel
adventure helps you do just that. Along the way, our local Trip Experience Leader will connect us with locals
to get an authentic glimpse into daily life. We’ll get to know sheep farmers, a local family, and craftsmen who
invite us into their cities and towns where they’ll share a piece of their culture with us.
And whenever you’d like, you have the freedom to explore New Zealand on your own: Break off from
the group for independent discoveries—like a canopy tour in Rotorua or a visit to a botanical garden in
4XHHQVWRZQ̜GXULQJIUHHWLPH:H̞OOH[SHULHQFHͫUVWKDQGWKH.LZLVSLULWRIDGYHQWXUHDQGWKHGHHS0DRUL
heritage as only small group travel allows.
EXTEND YOUR TRIP
Australia: The Great Barrier Reef & Highlights of Sydney
6 NIGHTS PRE-TRIP
A visit “Down Under” isn’t complete without the natural splendors of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and the
gems of cosmopolitan Sydney. Revel in the myriad colors and vibrant life of the Great Barrier Reef … Stroll
along iconic Sydney Harbour and discover its fascinating history … This trip combines the best of both worlds.
New Zealand’s Bay of Islands
3 NIGHTS POST-TRIP
:KHW\RXUDSSHWLWHIRU1HZ=HDODQGWUDYHOLQWKHH[RWLF%D\RI,VODQGV WKHKLVWRULFDOFURVVURDGVRI(XURSHDQ
and Maori cultures. Explore one of New Zealand’s most unique ecosystems in this subtropical archipelago of
nearly 150 islands. Revel in the pristine natural environment and stunning coastal scenery as we cruise along
crystal-clear turquoise waters, keeping watch for whales, dolphins, marlins, and penguins.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
16DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1 Depart U.S. the hotel’s amenities, use free time to visit local
VKRSVRUͫQG\RXURZQZD\VWRLQWHUDFWZLWK
Fly overnight from the U.S. to Auckland, WKHORFDOVFreedom To Explore: During your three full • Take in the view from the Auckland Sky
days in Auckland, the “City of Sails,” you have Tower: Boasted as the tallest building in
the freedom to explore this vibrant city on the Southern Hemisphere, this tower offers
your own during your free time. Below are a panoramic views more than 700 feet from
few recommended options for independent street level. You can spot major landmarks,
explorations: including volcanoes, mountains, and
other historical locations within the greater
• Cruise to Devonport: Just a 15- to 20-minute Auckland area—some even 50 miles away.
ferry ride from Auckland’s Central Business
If you want to take in even more sweeping
District, you can explore this relaxed seaside
views of the area, you can dine in one of the
village. As home to New Zealand’s Naval Base,
three restaurants and cafés at the top of the
this village is steeped in maritime history.
Sky Tower. The main restaurant, Sky Tower
)RUDͫVWKDQGORRNLQWRWKHKLVWRULFURRWV
2UELWűHYHQUHYROYHVDURXQGWKHWRSRI
of the area, explore the Naval Museum and
the tower to make sure your view is changing
North Head’s old bunkers and tunnels. You
throughout your dining experience.
can also peruse the many boutique shops,
selling everything from designer jewelry to • How to get there: A 10- to 15-minute taxi
Kiwi handicrafts, and glimpse the restored ride, about $4 USD one way.
Victorian villas. After you’re done exploring, • Hours: 9am-9:30pm, daily.
treat your taste buds in one of Devonport’s • Cost: About $22 USD.
many restaurants. The village is known
for its café culture and specialty foods,
Day 4 Explore Auckland • Tamaki Hikoi
like Devonport’s famous chocolatiers. Maori walking tour
• Destination: Auckland
• How to get there: A 15- to 20-minute ferry
ride, about $11 USD one way. • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Hours: 9am-4pm, daily. • Accommodations: CityLife Auckland Hotel
• Cost: Free. or similar
• Visit the Auckland City Art Gallery: Dive Breakfast: Served buffet-style at the hotel
into New Zealand’s artistic world during an starting at 6:30am, with hot and cold dishes
exploration of this world-renowned gallery. available.
Boasting more than 17,000 pieces of artwork,
Morning: Our small group will meet around
you can explore the nation’s past and present
9:30am for a 30-minute ride by motorcoach to
as you discover historical and contemporary
Bastion Point, where we visit Michael Joseph
art dating from the 11th century to present
Savage Memorial Park. In this historic site
day. These pieces plot a visual history of New
where discussions surrounding the Maoris’
=HDODQGEHJLQQLQJZLWKWKHͫUVWFRQWDFW
right to the land began in the 19th century,
between Maori and European explorers in
we’ll be greeted by the village elder of the Ngati
the 1600s.
Whatua tribe before we experience a traditional
• How to get there: A 10- to 15-minute walk. welcome ceremony. The ceremony, performed
• Hours: 10am-5pm, daily. LQWKHQDWLYH0DRULODQJXDJHZLOOEHRXUͫUVW
• Cost: About $13 USD. glimpse into the culture of New Zealand’s
original residents. You will witness the hongi
tradition, in which Maori hosts extend a
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
18welcome by pressing their noses and foreheads over the proliferation of nuclear weapons. We’ll
with their guests, a moment that allows each come away with a deeper understanding of the
person to share the other’s breath and for their values of Kiwi society. We encourage travelers
spirits to mingle. Following this ceremony, to interact, ask questions, and learn more
ZH̞OOGLVFXVVWKHGLIͫFXOWLHVWKH0DRULKDYH about New Zealand’s culture. Following our
faced since European settlers arrived in the talk, we’ll have about 30 minutes of free time
WKFHQWXU\LQFOXGLQJWKHFRQͫVFDWLRQRI before we enjoy a 15- to 20-minute stroll to the
Maori land. Devonport Ferry docks for a ferry ride lasting
about 20 minutes. Upon arrival in Devonport
Around 10am, we embark on a Tamaki Hikoi—a
around 5:15pm, your Trip Experience Leader
walking tour led by a Maori guide, who will
will lead a 45-minute walk around the area
continue to provide us with an authentic
(weather permitting).
Maori perspective. During this 2-hour tour,
we’ll learn more about the early settlement Dinner: Around 6pm, we gather for a Welcome
of New Zealand, ancient tribal traditions, and Dinner in a local restaurant in Devonport
controversial issues confronting modern-day featuring New Zealand fare.
Maori. Our small group allows us to get an
Evening: By 8:30pm, we’ll be aboard the return
intimate view into the lives of the Maori as
ferry to Auckland, where we walk back to our
we’ll have the opportunity to ask our guide any
hotel. Enjoy a free evening in Auckland. Perhaps
questions we may have. By the time our tour
you’ll grab a drink with fellow travelers at
ends around noon, we’ll come away with a deep
a local bar, or retire to your room to rest for
knowledge and connection to the Maori culture.
tomorrow’s discoveries.
Then, we’ll walk about 5 minutes to a local
restaurant for lunch.
Day 5 Auckland • Explore Waiheke Island
Lunch: Just after noon, we’ll have lunch at a
• Destination: Auckland
local restaurant near Bastion Point, featuring
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
regional dishes.
• Accommodations: CityLife Auckland Hotel
Afternoon: $IWHUZHͫQLVKOXQFKDURXQGSP or similar
the afternoon offers you the freedom to choose
Breakfast: Served buffet-style at the hotel
your own discoveries. Perhaps you’ll visit the
beginning at 6:30am, with hot and cold options
War Memorial Museum, which houses the
available.
largest collection of Polynesian artifacts in
the world, and a volcano exhibit that explores Morning: Around 8am, we’ll depart the hotel
these wondrous landscapes that have existed on foot for a 30-minute walk to the ferry
for more than 250,000 years. Additionally, terminal. Here, we’ll board our ferry for a
Auckland has many beautiful parks, trendy transfer of about an hour to Waiheke, New
restaurants, and a revitalized waterfront area Zealand’s second-largest island. Upon arrival
that contains the America’s Cup Village for around 11am, we’ll transfer approximately 20
visitors to enjoy. Around 4pm, we’ll reconvene minutes by coach to Batch Winery, one of the 30
at the hotel for a conversation with a local about boutique wineries on the island. As Waiheke’s
New Zealand’s nuclear free policy. For about 30 highest winery, its grounds offer sweeping
minutes, we’ll delve into the country’s desire to views and its decades-old vines produce quality
keep their environment clean and their disdain crafted batch wines.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
19Around 11:30am, we’ll descend to the wine Morning: We will depart the hotel around 9am
cellars and learn about the inner workings of for a scenic 4-hour drive by motorcoach to
this small winery, as well as sample a selection Rotorua through lush green pasturelands in
of their house-made wines. We’ll also learn the center of the North Island, the epicenter
how the craft selections are created. of Maori life. It’s believed that New Zealand’s
Maori people settled on the North Island about
Lunch: Enjoy a lunch of regional specialties
a thousand years ago, and they have held on
around 12:15pm while overlooking the
ͫUPO\WRWKHLULGHQWLW\DQGWUDGLWLRQV1HDUO\
picturesque vineyard and sipping a glass of
a quarter of a million indigenous Maori still
sparkling wine.
maintain their unique lifestyle and culture,
Afternoon: Following lunch around 1:30pm, adding to the rich heritage of New Zealand and
we’ll conclude our tour and depart for the accounting for 14% of its population.
20-minute coach drive to the ferry terminal,
Along the way, we’ll stop at about 11:30am in
where we’ll board and make the 40-minute
the town of Cambridge where we’ll meet a local
return to Auckland. Our ferry should arrive
family on their dairy farm—a NEW feature
around 3pm, followed by free time for the
for 2021. Our hosts will bring us on a brief tour
remainder of the afternoon.
before welcoming us into their home.
Dinner: On your own. Your Trip Experience
Lunch: Around 11:45am at the family’s home.
Leader can share an insider’s perspective
We’ll enjoy in-depth conversations with our
on restaurants to seek out. You might try an
hosts, and this is a great opportunity to ask the
authentic crab shack or tuck into mezze at a
local family about daily life in New Zealand.
casual bar.
Afternoon: We’ll board our coach around
Evening: Enjoy free time to explore the “City
1:30pm and continue on to Rotorua. Around
of Sails” on your last night in town, or perhaps
3pm, we arrive at Nest Egg Kiwi Conservation
retire to your room to rest before our early start
Project, where we learn from the staff about
tomorrow morning.
how the team breeds and raises baby kiwis,
and witness adult kiwis—the national bird—in
Day 6 Overland to Rotorua • Organic a specially-created environment. Kiwi comes
farm visit from the Maori language and means “hidden
• Destination: Rotorua bird.” The only birds with no tail feathers, they
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner are now nearly extinct in the wild, which is why
the nation has doubled down on conservation
• Accommodations: Sudima Hotel Lake
efforts, with nest egg teams across the islands.
Rotorua or similar
Activity Note: Today, we transfer overland to We depart for the 15-minute ride to our hotel
Rotorua, a drive of up to 4 hours. near Lake Rotorua around 4pm, arriving and
checking in to our rooms in the late afternoon.
Breakfast: Served buffet-style at the hotel Depending on your hotel, you might enjoy
beginning at 6:30am, featuring a selection of amenities including a health club, spa, and
hot and cold dishes. outdoor pool. Your room may feature coffee-
and tea-making facilities, minibar, telephone,
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
20and private bathroom. You’ll have about 2 the canopy. Up an ancient rimu tree, you can
hours of free time, an ideal opportunity to rest ͫQGWKHWKHKLJKHVWSODWIRUP̜DERXWIHHW
from our day or freshen up before dinner. DERYHWKHIRUHVWͬRRU7KLVFRPSDQ\KDVD
comprehensive eco-focus, and every person
Dinner: Around 6:30pm, in the hotel restaurant
who adventures here helps support forest
IHDWXULQJ3DFLͫF5LPFXLVLQH
restoration.
Evening: Relax and enjoy the amenities of the • How to get there: A 20- to 30-minute taxi
hotel, or stroll near the hotel to soak in views ride, about $20 USD one way.
of the lake. You may also wish to retire to your • Hours: 9:30am-4:30pm, daily.
room to rest for the night. • Cost: About $100 USD.
Freedom To Explore: During your three days • Explore the Buried Village of Te Wairoa: Once
in Rotorua, you have the freedom to explore a thriving European and Maori settlement on
this lakeside city on your own during your free the shores of Lake Tarawera, the unexpected
time. Below are a few recommended options for volcanic eruption of Mount Tarawera in 1886
independent explorations: buried this village and ended more than one
hundred lives. Today, this site showcases
• Refresh at Polynesian Spa: Revitalize your stories and displays of the villagers, the erup-
mind and body at New Zealand’s original tion, and the devastation left behind. Wander
geothermal bathing spa. The spa’s geother- through the Museum of Te Wairoa as you take
mal hot mineral waters are sourced from two in relics recovered from the eruption. Then,
natural hot springs that supply 28 hot miner- JHWDͫUVWKDQGJODQFHDWWKHHIIHFWVRIWKH
al pools. While here, you can take in sweeping explosion when you visit the archaeological
views of Lake Rotorua while you relax in four site. And, you can explore the re-vegetated
alkaline mineral hot pools, an acidic mineral area surrounding the village as you stroll
hot pool, and a cold plunge pool for hot-cold lush pathways leading to the Wairere Falls.
hydrotherapy. The water typically stays Perhaps you’ll take the steps down to feel the
between 96.8° F and 106° F. Along the pools’ cool spray of the cascading falls.
HGJHV\RXFDQͫQGJHRWKHUPDOO\KHDWHGSRRO
side recliners.
• How to get there: A 15- to 20-minute taxi
ride, about $16 USD one way.
• How to get there: A 5- to 10-minute taxi • Hours: 9am-4:30pm, daily.
ride, about $11 USD one-way. • Cost: About $22 USD.
• Hours: 8am-11pm, daily.
• Cost: About $53 USD. Day 7 Rotorua • Maori Cultural
• Go on an eco-adventure with Rotorua Experience
Canopy Tours: Journey deep into the ancient • Destination: Rotorua
New Zealand forest on this unique 3-hour • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
adventure. Swing from bridges and zip-lines
• Accommodations: Sudima Hotel Lake
DV\RXOHDUQDERXWORFDOͬRUDDQGIDXQD
Rotorua or similar
from a resident guide. Perhaps you’ll even
hand feed native wild birds. Secluded in the Breakfast: Served buffet-style at the hotel
forest, your small group of no more than beginning at 7am, featuring a selection of hot
SHRSOHZLOOH[SHULHQFHDͫUVWJHQHUDWLRQ and cold dishes.
QDWLYHIRUHVWIURPWKHIRUHVWͬRRUWRKLJKLQ
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
21Morning: Around 9:30am, we drive for one XVHGRQWKHEDWWOHͫHOGWKHhaka can also be
hour to Murupara, a town rich in Maori a celebratory display to honor guests. Each
history. Upon arrival around 10:30am, we will movement is meant to display the tribe’s
experience a traditional welcome ceremony ancestors and history.
onto the marae (meeting grounds) by our kuia,
By the time our tour ends around 3:30pm,
or woman elder. The ceremony, performed in
we’ll come away with a deep knowledge and
the native Maori language, will be a glimpse
connection to the Maori culture. Afterwards, we
into the culture of New Zealand’s original
will board our motorcoach and begin the drive
residents. First, the local children will perform
back to our hotel, arriving around 4:45pm.
a haka powhiri, a tribal song and dance, before
we are regaled with whaikorero, or speeches. Upon arrival in Rotorua, you have the
Symbolizing the end of our welcome process, remainder of the day free for your own
we will press noses with the local Maori—a discoveries. Take advantage of this extra time
spiritual showing of becoming one and sharing here—a NEW feature— to do some exploring
breath—in what is known as hongi. on your own. You might use your free time
to follow the lake edge for an afternoon, or
Following the ceremony, we will view historic
venture into town for a little more hustle
Maori cave carvings. Our local guide will delve
and bustle.
LQWRWKHKLVWRU\DQGVLJQLͫFDQFHRIWKHVH
carvings. Additionally, we’ll learn more about Dinner: On your own in Rotorua whenever you
the early settlement of New Zealand, ancient like. Perhaps you’ll choose to eat at the hotel’s
tribal traditions, and controversial issues restaurant, or venture out to the restaurants
confronting modern-day Maori. Our small and bars lining “Eat Street” to try some local
group allows us to get an intimate view into the hot spots. If you want to skip right to dessert,
lives of this tribe as we’ll have the opportunity savor some ice cream at Lady Jane’s Ice Cream
to ask our guide any questions we may have. Parlour, a local favorite.
Afterwards, we will help with prep for Evening: Your freedom to choose your own
the hangi—a traditional Maori feast that’s discoveries continues this evening. Perhaps
cooked underground—and learn the you’ll grab a drink with fellow travelers at a
VLJQLͫFDQFHRIWKLVPHDOLQWKHORFDOFXOWXUH local bar, or retire to your room to rest up for
Then, we will watch the tribespeople lay the tomorrow’s discoveries.
food in the pits under the ground.
Lunch: Around noon, we’ll enjoy a hangi meal Day 8 Rotorua • Optional Waimangu
with the community at the tribe’s lodge. Volcanic Valley Tour
• Destination: Rotorua
Afternoon: Around 1:30pm, we’ll delve into the
WULEH̞VWUDGLWLRQRIͬD[ZHDYLQJZLWKRXUORFDO • Included Meals: Breakfast
guide. We’ll gain a deeper understanding of the • Accommodations: Sudima Hotel Lake
tribal stories surrounding this tradition, and Rotorua or similar
the intricate process behind it. Then, we’ll learn Breakfast: Served buffet-style at the hotel
more about the haka, which we saw earlier starting at 7am, with hot and cold options
during our welcome ceremony. We’ll learn the available.
vigorous movements and rhythmic stomping
of this mighty dance. While traditionally
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
22Morning: Enjoy a free day in Rotorua for you Perhaps you’ll discover Maori and European
to explore on your own. Or, join our optional history at the Buried Village of Te Wairoa,
Waimangu Volcanic Valley tour. Rotorua is or explore the treetops of Rotorua on a
often called a thermal wonderland because canopy tour.
of its volcanic activity. The region is replete
Dinner: On your own. Perhaps you’ll take
with bubbling mud pools, geothermal geysers,
advantage of the hotel’s restaurant, or venture
and steam vents—a place where it’s not at all
into town to discover a local restaurant.
unusual to spot the occasional small vapor
stream rising from a crack in the pavement. Evening: On your own. Maybe you’ll retire to
Here, on the Volcanic Plateau, it simply comes your room, or grab a drink with fellow travelers
with the territory. at the hotel bar to discuss today’s discoveries.
For those on the optional tour, we’ll depart by
coach from the hotel around 9am, to transfer Day 9 Rotorua • Fly to Christchurch •
about 30 minutes to the Waimangu Volcanic Home-Hosted Dinner
Valley. This relatively young geothermal site • Destination: Christchurch
was created by nearby Mount Tarawera’s last • Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
eruption in 1886. We take a light 1-hour hike
• Accommodations: Distinction Christchurch
alongside a local guide who will provide us
Hotel or similar
with their insider knowledge of the landscape
as we descend into the lush valley of green Breakfast: Served buffet-style at the hotel
vegetation, pink silica terraces, and blue waters. beginning at 6am, featuring a selection of hot
:H̞OOGLVFRYHUWKH,QIHUQR&UDWHUͫOOHGZLWK and cold dishes.
brilliant turquoise water, and Frying Pan Lake,
Morning: We’ll depart the hotel around 10am
the world’s largest hot spring. Our small group
for about a 30-minute drive to Rotorua Airport.
will also embark on a 45-minute cruise of Lake
Upon arrival, we’ll have just under two hours
Rotomahana, where our captain explains more
KHUHWRSUHSDUHIRURXUͬLJKW
about the history of Rotorua and shows us more
geothermal sites that aren’t accessible by land. Lunch: On your own at the airport. Ask your
Trip Experience Leader for suggestions.
Around noon, our cruise will end, and we’ll
board our coach and drive about 30 minutes to Afternoon:2XUͬLJKWZLOOWDNHRIIDURXQG
our lunch spot. SPDQGZH̞OOͬ\DERXWKRXUVWR
Christchurch. Upon arrival, we transfer about
Lunch: For those not on the optional tour,
20-minutes by coach to our hotel in Cathedral
lunch is on your own. For those on the optional
Square. Depending on which hotel we stay
tour, lunch will be included at a local restaurant
at, there may be a bar and restaurant. Each
in Waimangu around 12:45pm.
air-conditioned room may feature amenities
Afternoon: Continue exploring on your own VXFKDVDUHIULJHUDWRUͬDWVFUHHQ79FRIIHH
for those staying in Rotorua. If you are on the and tea-making facilities, and private bath with
optional tour, we will depart by coach around hair dryer.
1:30pm to drive about 30 minutes back to
You can enjoy the freedom to explore on
Rotorua, where the remainder of the afternoon
your own this afternoon. Though devastating
is free for your own discoveries.
earthquakes set Christchurch back in 2010 and
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
23WKLV(QJOLVKLQͬXHQFHGEHDXW\KDVEHHQ to the back of the cathedral, you can take
on a re-building boom that has revitalized in a picturesque view of the green lawns of
the heart of the city and yielded plenty to see Latimer Square.
and do. You might choose a literal overview
• How to get there: A 5- to 10-minute walk.
with a ride by gondola up Mt. Cavendish. Or
• Hours: 7am-6pm, daily.
VWUROODPLGWKHFRORUIXOͬRZHUEHGVRIWKH
• Cost: Free.
Botanical Gardens. Perhaps you’ll pop into the
new Riverside Market where a variety of world
• Stroll through the Christchurch Botanical
Gardens: These garden sprawl over 21 hect-
cuisines compete for your attention. Around
ares of land and lie adjacent to the winding
6pm, we’ll break up into smaller groups and
Avon River. Perhaps you’ll walk along the
depart the hotel by coaches to join a local family
river and pass through the Temperate Asian
in their home.
&ROOHFWLRQZKHUHEHDXWLIXOͬRZHUVEORRPLQ
Dinner: With a local family just after 6pm. spring and a number of unusual fruits are
During our Home-Hosted Dinner, we will sit showcased in autumn. Then, continue on
down with our hosts for a traditional meal. to enjoy the Azalea and Magnolia Garden.
There’s plenty more to discover like the
Evening: Our hosts will describe what it
New Zealand Garden, the Water Garden, the
was like living through the 2010 and 2011
Peacock Fountain, and a prehistoric Monkey
earthquakes that devastated the city. We’ll
Puzzle Tree. Wherever you explore, you are
come away with a deep understanding of what
ERXQGWRJOLPSVHH[RWLFDQGORFDOͬRUD
it has taken for the resilient locals to rebuild
their community. We arrive back at our hotel • How to get there: A 10- to 15-minute taxi
around 8pm where you may want to retire to ride, about $8 USD one way.
your room to rest. • Hours: 7am-9pm, daily.
• Cost: Free.
Freedom To Explore: During your two days in
• Explore the Bridle Path Walk: Originally
Christchurch, you have the freedom to explore
constructed in 1850, this walk served as a
this coastal city on your own during your free
IRRWURXWHIRU&DQWHUEXU\̞VͫUVW(XURSHDQ
time. Below are a few recommended options for
settlers travelling between Lyttelton and
independent explorations:
Christchurch. The path goes up the side of
• Visit the Cardboard Cathedral: Designed by Queenstown’s rolling hills and offers sweep-
Shigeru Ban as a temporary replacement ing panoramic views. You can explore the
following the devastating 2011 earthquake, many walking trails in the area, and perhaps
this unique building incorporates 98 equally even enjoy a picnic at the top. If you start
sized cardboard tubes and 8 steel shipping from the city side of the path, you’ll come
containers to form its A-frame structure. upon a a distinctive stone shelter that com-
Upon entering the cathedral, you can view memorates the pioneer women of the area.
the multicolored stained-glass replicas. The • How to get there: A 15- to 20-minute taxi
quiet simplicity of the building draws people ride, about $17 USD one way.
from all over. When you are inside and look • Hours: Open 24 hours, 7 days a week.
• Cost: Free.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
24Day 10 Christchurch • Local farm visit perhaps have a cocktail at a bar just steps
away in Cathedral Square, the epicenter of city
• Destination: Christchurch
nightlife.
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
• Accommodations: Distinction Christchurch
Day 11 Christchurch • Overland
Hotel or similar
to Dunedin
Breakfast: Served buffet-style at the hotel
• Destination: Dunedin
beginning at 6:30am, featuring a selection of
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
hot and cold dishes.
• Accommodations: Distinction Dunedin Hotel
Morning: We depart around 10am by or similar
motorcoach and set off on a 1-hour drive to
Activity Note: Today, we transfer overland to
Rubicon Valley in the Southern Alps. There,
Dunedin, a drive of up to 8 hours with stops
we visit a working farm which is home to
included along the way.
more than 3,000 sheep. As we begin our back
FRXQWU\H[SORUDWLRQRIWKHIDUPZH̞OOͫUVW Breakfast: Served buffet-style at the hotel
have the opportunity to see the impressive featuring hot and cold dishes beginning
teamwork of sheepdogs and sheep. Then, at 7:30am.
we’ll observe a sheep shearing demonstration
and we’ll meet some of the farm’s other furry Morning: Today, we depart the hotel by
residents, including alpaca. Throughout this motorcoach around 8:30am to head to the
experience, our small group will gain a deeper coastal city of Dunedin—a recently added
understanding of farm life and the importance destination for 2021. Our total transfer time
of sheep in New Zealand when we speak to will be up to 8 hours with stops included along
the farmers and ask them any questions we the way. On our drive, we’ll get endless views
may have. of the rugged beaches that dot the coast.
2XUͫUVWVWRSDURXQGQRRQZLOOEULQJXVWR
Lunch: Around noon, we’ll enjoy an included historic Oamaru, a town steeped in Victorian
barbecue lunch at the Rubicon Farm. architecture.
Afternoon: Around 1pm, we depart on a 1-hour Lunch: Around noon, we’ll stop for lunch on
drive back to Christchurch. When we arrive, you your own in Oamaru. Ask your Trip Experience
can enjoy the freedom to explore on your own Leader for suggestions.
this afternoon. Perhaps you’ll venture aboard
the gleaming red trolley cars—a perfect way Afternoon: Following lunch, you will have
to see the many faces of Christchurch, from free time to explore this quaint town on
the Avon River to the Canterbury Museum and your own. Perhaps you’ll stroll through the
bustling New Regent Street. Historic Precinct where you can peruse many
stores, handicrafts, museums, galleries, and
Dinner: On your own. Ask your Trip Experience more. Or, ask your Trip Experience Leader for
Leader for recommendations. suggestions.
Evening: The balance of the evening is free We depart around 2pm to continue our transfer
to relax in your room or discover the quaint by motorcoach to Dunedin. Around 2:45pm,
charms of Christchurch on your own. Or we’ll stop to behold the Moeraki Boulders.
These oddly spherical stones are large and
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
25You can also read
