Travelwise 17 Day NZ Tour 1/17 May 2021 - Company Profile 1998

Tour Code TW10521
                                                                                               **Included Sights

Travelwise 17 Day NZ Tour 1/17 May 2021

May 1: Arrive Christchurch
Welcome to Aotearoa, “The Land of the long white Cloud”. Once we clear customs we will retire to the
hotel. A more comprehensive tour of the city will be carried out on 9 March when we return to the city
Garden Hotel (Dinner and Breakfast)

May 2: Christchurch - Mt Cook
Today we depart NZs English city and head across the dry Canterbury Plains, through green foot-hills
to the McKenzie basin and beautiful lakes Tekapo and Pukaki. We visit the **Church of the Good
Shepherd and the statue of **The Musterers dog, Our major feature today is the Southern Alps and
the Mount Cook National Park. Mt Cook is NZs highest mountain, and we have the opportunity to view
the mountain from "The Hermitage" at the end of the road. We then travel to the McKenzie basin and
Omarama “The Place of the Moon”.
Heritage Gateway Hotel (Dinner and Breakfast)

May 3 : Mt Cook - Dunedin
Travelling East we follow the shores of the Waitaki River famous for trout and salmon fishing. On the
way we see a number of great hydro power stations, the biggest of which is Benmore, one of the
largest earthen dams in the southern hemisphere. Our first stop is at Oamaru where we view
Oamaru’s Historic Precinct of well-preserved 19th century buildings. Here you will be fascinated by the
variety of architectural styles. They range from Gothic revival to neoclassical Greek and Italian. The
remarkable cream limestone from local quarries has earned Oamaru the title of ‘The Whitestone City’.
It is so soft that it can be quarried with a circular saw. Once exposed to air, it hardens and is eminently
suitable for public buildings. Elegant banks and hotels stand alongside handsome warehouses and

wool stores. Our next stop is at the Moeraki Boulders which are huge spherical stones that are
scattered over the sandy beaches, but they are not like ordinary round boulders that have been
shaped by rivers and pounding seas. These boulders are classed as septarian concretions, and were
formed in ancient sea floor sediments. They were created by a process similar to the formation of
oyster pearls, where layers of material cover a central nucleus or core. For the oyster, this core is an
irritating grain of sand. For the boulders, it was a fossil shell, bone fragment, or piece of wood. Lime
minerals in the sea accumulated on the core over time, and the concretion grew into perfectly
spherical shapes up to three metres in diameter.. Following the historic whaling coast we travel over
Mt Cargill on the Otago Peninsular to the lookout. This then takes us to NZs own charming Scottish
city, Dunedin. We explore the Scottish city by first taking “The high road” onto Otago Penisular. We
visit **Larnarchs Castle built by one of NZs more eccentric politicians. We then “Take the Low Road”
winding our way back along the harbour to the city..
Kingsgate Hotel (Dinner and Breakfast)

May 4 : Dunedin - Lake TeAnau
This morning we have the option of traveling on the famous Taieri Gorge train trip – a gem of a rail
journey into the spectacular rocky Central Otago Interior.
. We then travel through some of NZs most lush sheep farming country. We see sheep ,sheep and
more sheep as we travel though the rural southland towns of Gore and Balclutha. Eventually we return
to the grandeur of the Southern Alps and the beauty of Lake Te Anau.
Kingsgate Hotel (Dinner and Breakfast)

May 5 : TeAnau - Milford Sound - Queenstown
Southwest New Zealand is one of the great wilderness areas of the Southern Hemisphere. It is an
area where snow-capped mountains, rivers of ice, deep lakes, unbroken forests and tussock
grasslands produce a landscape of exceptional beauty. Recognition of the outstanding natural values
of the area was granted by UNESCO in December 1990, with the formation of the Southwest New
Zealand World Heritage Area. This area incorporates Aoraki/ Mt Cook, Westland/ Tai Poutini,
Fiordland and Mt Aspiring National Parks, and covers 2.6 million hectares or 10% of New Zealand's
land area. World heritage is a global concept that identifies natural and cultural sites of world
significance - places so special that protecting them is of concern to all people. Fiordland was also the
final refuge of the world’s only flightless parrot, the nocturnal kākāpo. A recovery project for these
unique birds is now under way on a number of pest free offshore islands. Glacier carved hanging
valleys, thick native forest, spectacular waterfalls and sheer precipices tower over the fiord. Go
further, see more and let Mitre Peak Cruises take you on a voyage of discovery you will never
forget. Milford Sound is a spectacular fiord nestled at the most northern and accessible end of
Fiordland National Park. Here we cruise the sounds by launch *and get close up views of the
magnificent scenery that this World Heritage Area has to offer. Be inspired as mountain peaks soar
overhead and waterfalls tumble hundreds of metres into the sea below. While cruising the sound we
enjoy a picnic lunch *.
Later in the afternoon we return along the Milford road back to Te Anau where we pause for a cuppa.
We then travel from Mossburn beneath the towering Remarkable's Range on to the alpine resort of
Queenstown on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.
Ramada Hotel (Dinner and Breakfast)

May 6: Queenstown
Today is at leisure. Queenstown has so many options for you to chose from or just relax.
Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Southern Alps,
Queenstown was named because "it was fit for Queen Victoria". Today Queenstown is recognised as
New Zealand's premier visitor destination and as one of the friendliest cities in the world.
Queenstown's reputation as the Adventure Capital is well earned. Earth, water and air, there is
something to thrill any adventure seeker.
Ramada Hotel (Dinner and Breakfast)

May 7: Queenstown – Glaciers
There are plenty of stops today for photo opportunities as we descend down to the Kawarau Gorge. If
time permits however we will firstly visit the gold mining town of Arrowtown. Two years after the first
European settlers established high country farms in the Wakatipu area, gold was discovered nearby.
The find was concealed for a short time, but news soon spread. In 1862 Jack Tewa, a shearer
working for William Rees, had found gold in the Arrow River. Originally named Fox's (after William
Fox, a Californian gold miner) the town began to populate. Within weeks 1500 people, and as the
news of gold in the Arrow River spread, people in search of the alluvial treasure arrived in droves.
Tents and shanties built on the river bank were washed away in a spring flood the following year, lives
were lost. The town was re built more solidly on the terraces above the river bank. We travel through
the rugged Kawarau Gorge, past the submerged town of Cromwell. Cromwell was an early gold
mining town which had to be relocated to higher ground due to the construction of a hydro dam further
down the Clutha River. We view the tranquil lakes of Wanaka and Hawea before we climb to the rocky
"Gates of the Haast" on the Haast River via the summit of the southern Alps. We travel through the
Haast River valley entering the lush rain forests of the West Coast. We continue on to the relics of the
Ice Age – The Glaciers
Alpine Glacier Motel (Dinner and Breakfast)

May 8: Glaciers - Christchurch
This morning we have the optional opportunity to fly over the great ice fields of the Southern Alps (if
the weather permits). The helicoptor is the way to do it with a landing on the ice field high in the Alps.
The view is something you will never forget and with all the big glaciers (Fox and Franz) in the area as
well as NZ’s highest mountain Mt Cook. Do not miss it if the weather is right. We travel through lush
rainforests past South Westland’s scenic lakes to the Franz Josef Glacier before traversing the
Waikukupa Hill and Omoeroa and Cook Saddles to the Cook River Flats and the Fox Glacier.
Driving towards the northern end of the South Island’s West Coast Road, there is a strong sense of
entering a primeval land, and a feeling of total isolation. You are surrounded by a landscape of
rainforest, wetlands, sand dunes and surf-pounded shingle beaches. This wilderness forms part of the
South West New Zealand World Heritage Area, so designated because South Westland and
Fiordland have some of the most dramatic forest and mountain scenery and natural resources in the
world. We leave this part of the West Coast and travel north through virgin rain forest to Hokitika, the
West Coast gold mining capital. Here we visit a jade and glass blowing factory. We continue over
Arthurs Pass back to Christchuch.
Garden Hotel (Dinner and Breakfast)

May 9: Christchurch
Christchurch is the South Island's largest city. It’s a vibrant, cosmopolitan place with exciting festivals,
theatre, modern art galleries, great shopping and award-winning attractions. In the centre of the city
you can’t help but notice Christchurch Cathedral, an outstanding example of Gothic Revival
architecture. Sadly the Cathedral was damaged during the Earthquake but may still be viewed from
the City Square. Other grey-stone nineteenth century buildings, tree-lined avenues and extensive leafy
parks give the city an elegant, rather English atmosphere. After a comprehensive tour of the city there
will be free time for shopping or to explore the English city personally
Garden Hotel (Dinner and Breakfast)

May 10: Christchurch - Wellington
We continue North along the spectacular Kaikoura Coast where we pause to view the fur seals.
Reboarding our coach we arrive at the pretty little town of Blenheim. Blenheim can proudly uphold the
claim to be both ‘The Sunshine Capital’ and ‘The Foremost Grape Growing Area’ of New Zealand, We
then continue to Picton at the top of the south island.
We cruise out onto the Cook Strait on the Interislander * and through New Zealand’s only true
sounds, the picturesque Marlborough Sounds. . Our ferry carries rail trucks full of freight and all things
needed to service cities and rural areas. From the Malborough Sounds, it is out onto Cook Strait, and
into the harbour of our capital city.
Wellington is New Zealand’s capital city. It is a complete contrast to the sprawling urban mass that
constitutes Auckland. Wellington is a visitor-friendly, upbeat, compact city, which can claim to be the
world’s southernmost capital. It offers the visitor far more than a look at New Zealand’s parliamentary
democracy in action. Wellington has a well-earned reputation as an entertainment and cultural centre.
You can find some of the New Zealand’s best theatres, galleries, restaurants, bars and cafes here.
The choice of authentic ethnic restaurants and cafes is mind-boggling, in fact with around 400 eating
establishments, Wellington. This is where the New Zealand parliament sits in "The Beehive".
Wellington is a beautiful city with many wonderful sights and buildings.
Bay Plaza Hotel (Dinner and Breakfast)

May 11: Wellington - Rotorua
This morning we head to the North Island interior and “The Desert Rd”. To the west there is no
horizon, as the landscape and sky are overwhelmed by the monumental outline of Mt. Ruapehu. Dark
canyons and shadowy scree slopes tumble from the snow-capped peaks and merge with the indistinct
landforms of the plain. The majestic grandeur of Ruapehu is a powerfully moving sight especially on a
clear day. It is well worth a photo stop to capture the changing moods of the mountain.
We continue on to NZs largest Lake, Lake Taupo via New Zealand’s largest pine tree forests. En-
route, we make a visit to the Wairakei Geothermal Steam Field. This was a world’s first generating
electricity by tapping a natural steam field then channelling the steam to a nearby power generation
plant. Continuing we view the mighty Huka Falls. Huka in Maori translates to “snow” as the water
here has the appearance of snow falling as it is forced along from Lake Taupo through the falls on its
journey along the Waikato River.
After lunch, we travel to the thermal wonderland of Rotorua, the Sulphur City. Rotorua has the most
energetic thermal activity in the country with bubbling mud pools, gushing geysers, beautiful coloured
hot springs and terrace formations created by mineral water. Rotorua also has a large Maori
population whose cultural activities are interesting and accessible as will be witnessed tomorrow
evening.
Copthorne Hotel (Dinner and Breakfast)

May 12: Rotorua
Today we have a fun filled day, with sights of Rotorua This morning we visit the New Zealand Maori
Arts and Crafts Institute * and Te Puia Thermal Valley * featuring the Pouto Geyser. Exploding
from the ground up to 30 meters high is the world famous Pohutu Geyser – an awesome display of
Mother Nature’s power. A tourist attraction since the early 1900’s. But that’s just the start of the
beautiful Te Whakarewarewa thermal valley. See silica terraces, bubbling mud pools and unique
geothermal vegetation. And each of the geothermal wonders is woven into a legend – surrounded by
memories and sometimes mystery. We then visit the Agrodome * to learn about the sheep industry.
This unique New Zealand experience is still the best and most popular sheep show but there's a lot
more to it than sheep - 19 champion rams, sheep shearing, sheep dogs, cow milking, sheep auction,
lamb feeding. The multi-award winning Agrodome Sheep Show is one hour of 'full on' entertainment.
Balance of the day free. Tonight we enjoy a Maori Hangi concert *.

Copthorne Hotel (Dinner and Breakfast)

May 13: Rotorua - Auckland
This morning we climb the Mamaku Range into the heart of the Waikato country. We cross over the
Bombay Hills via the Dairy Rich Waikato Region. A small area of farmland outside the small town of
Matamata, near Hamilton (a couple of hours drive south of Auckland) was transformed by The Lord of
the Rings crew into the peaceful hobbit village of Hobbiton. The rolling green hills of Waikato perfectly
portray the peaceful Shire, home of Bilbo and Frodo for many years. The rural landscape of ordered
farms and hedgerows is a delight. We have a stop at Huntly for a cuppa by the banks of the Waikato
River before continuing to NZs largest city . Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand with a
population of over one million people. Positioned between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea the
city has become known as the city of sails because of the large number of pleasure craft there. The
Auckland regatta which is held annually is one of the largest one day events of its kind in the world.
Auckland represents the largest urban city in New Zealand and is recognised as having the largest
concentration of Polynesian people in the world. Imagine a modern, cosmopolitan city of over one
million people sprawling over an area twice the size of London. Imagine that this city has a sunny
climate with average temperatures of 20°C in summer, 13°C in winter and a moderate 1.2 meters
annual rainfall. Visualise this place built on 50 dormant volcanic cones between two beautiful
harbours, where everyone lives within a 30 minute drive of white sand beaches, lush rainforest, over
20 regional parks and a maritime playground embracing 50 islands. This place is Auckland. Little
wonder then that this uniquely exciting twin-harbour city attracts 1.4 million overseas visitors each year

and is regarded as having one of the best lifestyles and family environments in the world. After
Auckland sights we continue north to Snells Beach for our overnight stop to the Bay of Islands

Salty Dog Hotel (Dinner and Breakfast)

May 14: Auckland - Bay of Islands
Heading north today our first stop is at The Kauri Museum * at Matakohe which tells us the story of
Northland’s founding industry which was based on harvesting massive kauri trees and collecting their
gum. Around the turn of last century, Kaipara’s settlers milled kauri and exported the timber and the
gum, which was used to make varnish. It boasts magnificent collections of antique kauri furniture,
photographs, pioneer memorabilia and restored and working machinery, including a steam sawmill,
and the world’s largest collection of kauri gum. The Northland Forest Park comprises 17 forests
containing 85% of all the Kauri trees remaining in this country. The magnificent, tall, straight, knot-free
kauri was one of the great inducements for settlement of these far-flung islands in the Pacific. Kauri
was used by Maori to fashion war canoes, and by the British Navy for masts and spars. It was pit-
sawn for settler’s homes and provided valuable kauri gum. Then on to the Bay Of Islands this region
has the finest maritime park in New Zealand with the 144 Islands and secluded bays. The Bay has an
abundance of marine life, including the big marlin, whales, penguins, dolphins, gannets and many
other species. The maritime and historic park is the original cradle of European civilization and has
fine examples of Maori culture.
Kingsgate Hotel (Dinner and Breakfast)

May 15: Bay of Islands
Today we have the option to take the Cape Reianga Trip by special coach to the very tip of the North
Island, Cape Reianga. It is here where the Maoris believe the spirits of the dead pause before flying
north to their home-land in Hawaiki . After spending some quality time here at the cape we make our
way back south, but instead of returning via the main road we vere off and drive down a river bed
called Te Paki Stream. We have to keep moving here as the river has quick sand in places!!. We then
literally drive down 90 mile beach and at times have to drive through the surf!! We return to the Bay of
Islands via a coast-line of quant little fishing villages as well as visiting a Kauri wood display.
The day is other wise free for relaxation or shopping.
Kingsgate Hotel (Dinner and Breakfast)

May 16: Bay of Islands - Auckland
This morning we enjoy the Bay Of Islands most popular cruise – The Cape Brett “Hole in the Rock”
*. On board the high speed catamaran you'll pass through big game fishing waters before making an
exciting passage through the famous Hole in the Rock. An informative commentary highlights Maori
legend, historical features plus the flora and fauna of the area. Dolphins, seals, whales and a variety
of bird life are often encountered. Our cruise features the unique island at Otehei Bay on
Urupukapuka Island.
Traveling south via Whangarei and the Hibiscus Coast, we return to Snells Beach
Salty Dog Hotel (Dinner and Breakfast)

May 17: Home
This morning we head out to Auckland Airport where sadly we farewell NZs triple shores.

Included in the Tour
*Meet and Greet and Airport Transfers;         *16 nights accom includes Breakfasts/Dinners;
*2 nights Christchurch “The Garden City”;      * Mount Cook National Park;
* Southern Alps;                               *Dunedin “Edinburgh of the South”;
* Spectacular Milford Sound Cruise /Lunch; *Fiordland National Park – a World Heritage Area;
*2 nights in the Alpine resort of Queenstown;
*Beautiful Southland Lakes;                     *Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers;
*World Heritage Westland National Park;         *Greenstone (Jade) jewellery manufacturing;
 *Pictureque Malborough Sounds;
*Cruise across Cook Strait;                      *NZ’s capital city – Wellington;
*World Heritage Tongariro National Park;          *Thunderous Huka Falls;
*Wairaki Thermal Reserve;                        *Beautiful Lake Taupo;
*2 nights in Thermal Rotorua;                    *Agrodome agricultural Show;
*NZ Maori Arts and Crafts Centre;
*Te Puia Thermal Reserve;                       *Maori Hangi (Feast) and cultural entertainment;
*2 Nights in the National Maritime Park of the Bay of Islands;
*Matakohe Kauri Museum;
*Cape Brett “Hole in the Rock” Cruise;          *Auckland – “City of Sails”;