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Auckland: New Zealand Rail Adventure: Value Plus Escorted Vacation

Duration
15 Days
Prices From:
AU$ On Request

MODERATE | ESCORTED COACH TOUR: Discover some of the worlds' most incredible scenery in New Zealand. Enjoy some iconic rail journeys, the Glenbrook Steam Train, TranzAlpine and Coastal Pacific Railways. Admire the southern fiords and landscapes of Franz Josef, cruise the full length of Milford Sound and savour a Maori Hangi feast in Rotorua.


This 15-day New Zealand trip focuses on the country’s railways, taking you from Auckland, the country’s largest city, around the South Island, all the way to Christchurch.

Auckland is commonly said to be one of the world’s most liveable cities, and welcomes you to New Zealand with a trip to Glenbrook via the Glenbrook Vintage Steam Train. Then go on to Rotorua, where you’ll visit the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, and see the Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley before ending the day with a traditional Hangi feast, Maori style. This is New Zealand’s natural geothermal laboratory, where geysers and bubbling mud pools dot the landscape. The following day, visit the Agrodome for a sheep shearing demonstration and dog trial.

Transfer to Wellington, then climb aboard the Northern Explorer Train to see some of the beautiful surrounding country. The following day, take a sightseeing tour of Wellington, including Te Papa Tongarewa, the national museum. Spend the rest of the day exploring ‘the world’s coolest capital city.’ With more cafes and bars per capita than New York City, Wellington is a town that takes its leisure time seriously, so you’ll have no shortage of options when it comes to enjoying yours.

Board the ferry for your crossing to the South Island. Upon reaching Christchurch, you’ll board what may be the most impressive train journey in New Zealand, the TranzAlpine. Cross the South Island through the Southern Alps and Arthur’s Pass, bound for the spectacular West Coast. Spend the night at Fox Glacier, one of two massive accessible sheets of slow-moving ice working their way down the West Coast.

Wind through the mountains and Haast Pass to Queenstown, the ‘adventure capital’ of New Zealand. With a full day at leisure, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to take a ride on the Shotover Jet Boat, zip line through the rainforest, learning about its ecology, or just walk or bike around Lake Wakatipu. The following day, take perhaps the most spectacular day trip one can take from Queenstown, to Milford Sound, where you’ll enjoy a cruise through this mighty fjord. Spend the night in charming Te Anau, giving you time to relax instead of taking the long drive back to Queenstown.

Your next stop, Dunedin is the most Scottish town in New Zealand, and a major university town as well. Take theTaleri Gorge Railway to enjoy the landscapes of the Otago wine region, then spend a delightful evening (perhaps tasting its riches) in the ‘Edinburgh of the South.’ In the morning, take the Seasider around Otago Harbour and up the Pacific coast before turning inland toward Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. You’ll also visit Lake Tekapo before returning to Christchurch for a farewell dinner, flying home the next day.


 

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Duration
15 Days
Prices From:
AU$ On Request

Itinerary View Trip Map

Day 1

Arrive Auckland

Arrive in the 'City of Sails' and be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, enjoy a special Welcome Dinner as you get to know your fellow travellers.

Meal Plan Dinner
Duration2 Nights
Accommodation

Sudima Auckland City

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Location View map
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    Sudima Auckland City



    Sudima Auckland City is a new 4.5-star hotel in the heart of the city. It's conveniently located within easy walking distance of Auckland's bustling shopping, arts, dining and entertainment precincts and opposite the New Zealand International Convention Centre. So whether you're in town for leisure …

    Sudima Auckland City is a new 4.5-star hotel in the heart of the city. It's conveniently located within easy walking distance of Auckland's bustling shopping, arts, dining and entertainment precincts and opposite the New Zealand International Convention Centre. So whether you're in town for leisure or business, Sudima Auckland City is perfect.

    For sight-seers and holiday makers Sudima Auckland City's central location makes it a perfect base for exploring Auckland city and beyond. Whatever your plans, our friendly team can help.

    All guests 12 years and over are required to be fully vaccinated and validated by the COVID-19 vaccination pass in order to enter the premises, its venues and outlets. This policy will continue to be reviewed in line with the changing government restrictions.

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Day 2

Auckland, Glenbrook Vintage Steam Train

Insider Experience
Ride the historic Glenbrook Vintage Steam Train

This morning travel to Glenbrook and board the Glenbrook Vintage Steam Train. Take a journey through the beautiful rural Franklin countryside before stopping at the Pukeoware Depot to explore the workshop, view other historic locomotives, and enjoy a morning tea. After your time here, return to Auckland by coach.

Meal Plan Breakfast
Day 3

Auckland, Rail Cruise Experience, Rotorua

Insider Experience
Enjoy a unique self-drive Rail Cruising experience. In your hybrid vehicle, you will have a first-class view of the ranges, with an audio guide to inform you about the region.

Insider Experience
Delight in a Hangi Feast and Maori cultural performance.

After breakfast, board your coach and head towards the Mamaku Ranges for a special rail experience. In Rotorua, visit Te Puia Cultural Centre, and tour the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute before an evening of traditional culture and food.

Meal Plan Breakfast and Dinner
Duration2 Nights
Accommodation

Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua

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    Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua



    Set on the shores of beautiful Lake Rotorua, Sudima Lake Rotorua is the largest hotel in Rotorua. Adjacent to the world famous Polynesian Spa, Rotorua Museum and Government Gardens, the hotel is a short stroll from Rotorua's vibrant city centre, Convention Centre and the Energy …

    Set on the shores of beautiful Lake Rotorua, Sudima Lake Rotorua is the largest hotel in Rotorua. Adjacent to the world famous Polynesian Spa, Rotorua Museum and Government Gardens, the hotel is a short stroll from Rotorua's vibrant city centre, Convention Centre and the Energy Events Centre. Sudima Lake Rotorua offers 250 guest rooms in a range of accommodation options, many with superb views across Lake Rotorua.

    Facilities

    • Bar(s)
    • Conference Facilities
    • Golf
    • Laundry facilities
    • Massage Treatments
    • Parking
    • Pool (s)
    • Reception (24 hrs)
    • Restaurant(s)
    • Spa

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Day 4

Rotorua

Rotorua captures the essence of New Zealand with its geothermal geysers, fascinating Maori culture and rich heritage. Your sightseeing continues with a visit to one of New Zealand's best-loved attractions, the Agrodome, and then enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore further or simply relax.

Meal Plan Breakfast
Day 5

Rotorua, Wellington

We leave Rotorua, headed for the national capital, Wellington. In the afternoon we visit the fascinating Fell Locomotive Museum, which houses the only remaining steam-powered Fell locomotive in the world. It ran from 1877, using a unique system of four grip wheels on a raised centre rail to enable it to pull carriages up the steep Rimutaka Incline. After your visit, continue on to Wellington.

Meal Plan Breakfast and Dinner
Duration2 Nights
Accommodation

Travelodge Wellington

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    Travelodge Wellington



    Travelodge Wellington is an ideal place to stay for any traveller. The hotel is situated in the town centre and is just a short stroll to cafes, shops and the beautiful Wellington harbour. Visitors to Wellington can enjoy close access to the Te Papa Tongarewa …

    Travelodge Wellington is an ideal place to stay for any traveller. The hotel is situated in the town centre and is just a short stroll to cafes, shops and the beautiful Wellington harbour. Visitors to Wellington can enjoy close access to the Te Papa Tongarewa (the Museum of New Zealand), the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, the Royal New Zealand Ballet and the Museum of Wellington's City and Sea. The hotel offers 132 spacious rooms.

    Facilities

    • Laundry/Dry Cleaning Service
    • Reception (24 hrs)
    • Restaurant
    • Wheelchair Accessible Rooms

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Day 6

Wellington

After breakfast today, set off on a sightseeing tour of the city's best-loved landmarks and sights, including New Zealand's national museum, Te Papa Tongarewa. This innovative and interactive museum celebrates the treasures of the country. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to explore the city. Perhaps get a panoramic view of the city and harbour at the Mount Victoria Lookout. You may prefer to simply take a leisurely walk around the waterfront.

Meal Plan Breakfast
Day 7

Wellington, Picton, Coastal Pacific Train, Christchurch

Insider Experience
View the beautiful Pacific coastline from the Coastal Pacific Train.

This morning, step aboard the Interislander ferry to cruise from Wellington Harbour across Cook Strait and through the Marlborough and Queen Charlotte sounds to Picton. Join the Coastal Pacific train to Kaikoura. Return to your coach to travel to Christchurch.

Meal Plan Breakfast and Dinner
Duration1 Night
Accommodation

Quality Hotel Elms

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    Quality Hotel Elms



    Quality Hotel Elms at 456 Papanui Road is ideally situated on the Northwest corner of the city offering easy access for out of town guest's proximity to the airport for North Island and International guests, without the hassle of entering the central city. The Quality …

    Quality Hotel Elms at 456 Papanui Road is ideally situated on the Northwest corner of the city offering easy access for out of town guest's proximity to the airport for North Island and International guests, without the hassle of entering the central city.

    The Quality Hotel Elms offer a variety of facilities and services, like our brand new Fiber optic super-fast internet that we now offer to all guests on a complimentary basis. Conferencing facilities for up to 200 delegates, and our new wedding venue has been constructed with the latest design specifications to ensure you and your guests are catered for in a beautiful setting.

    Facilities

    • Bar
    • Conference Room
    • Restaurant
    • Wedding Facilities

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Day 8

Christchurch, TranzAlpine Train, Fox Glacier

Insider Experience
On your TranzAlpine journey, considered to be one of the world's greatest rail adventures, you will follow the Waimakariri River and travel across the Southern Alps within Arthur's Pass National Park.

This morning after breakfast, you will board the renowned TranzAlpine train to cross the South Island. Upon arrival at Greymouth, you will disembark and travel by coach to the incredible natural surrounds at Franz Josef and Fox glaciers.

Meal Plan Breakfast and Dinner
Duration1 Night
Accommodation

Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier

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    Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier



    The historic Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier originally opened in 1928 and has provided a comfortable bed for the night for more than its fair share of climbers and adventurers from all corners of the world. Restored in 2007, the hotel proudly continues its tradition with …

    The historic Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier originally opened in 1928 and has provided a comfortable bed for the night for more than its fair share of climbers and adventurers from all corners of the world. Restored in 2007, the hotel proudly continues its tradition with modern comforts. With the mighty Southern Alps as its backdrop, the hotel offers fantastic rural and mountain views. The hotel has 67 guest rooms and suites. Standard rooms and suites are equipped with; free Wi-Fi, refrigerators, hairdryers and tea and coffee making facilities.

    Facilities

    • Bar(s)
    • Conference Facilities
    • Internet Access
    • Laundry facilities
    • Lounge(s)
    • Parking (for Self Park)
    • Pool (s)
    • Reception (24 hrs)
    • Restaurant(s)
    • Room Service

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Day 9

Fox Glacier, Queenstown

Enjoy a day of truly beautiful scenery as you travel to the alpine resort of Queenstown. Known as the country's adventure capital, Queenstown is also renowned for its world-class culinary scene. This evening you may like to sample some of the region's fresh flavours at one of the many restaurants in walking distance from your hotel (own expense).

Meal Plan Breakfast
Duration2 Nights
Accommodation

Copthorne Hotel and Apartments Queenstown Lakeview

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    Copthorne Hotel and Apartments Queenstown Lakeview



    Copthorne Hotel and Apartments Queenstown Lakeview is in the perfect location. Queenstown town centre is a short stroll away, complete with shopping, entertainment and adventure activities. The hotel rooms and apartments are extremely spacious with large private balconies so you can enjoy the magnificent views …

    Copthorne Hotel and Apartments Queenstown Lakeview is in the perfect location. Queenstown town centre is a short stroll away, complete with shopping, entertainment and adventure activities. The hotel rooms and apartments are extremely spacious with large private balconies so you can enjoy the magnificent views of Lake Wakatipu and the remarkable mountain range from the comfort of your room. Hillary's Restaurant with its breathtaking mountain and lake views features a conservatory style decor and serves a wide variety of Kiwi and international cuisine.

    Facilities

    • Business Centre
    • Internet Access
    • Restaurant(s)
    • Wheelchair Accessible Rooms

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Day 10

Queenstown

Insider Experience
Ride the Skyline Gondola 450 metres above the city to the top of Bob's Peak for a buffet lunch at the Stratosfare Restaurant.

Soar to the top of a Queenstown peak for lunch with a view as all of Queenstown spreads below you. The rest of the day is at leisure so you have the freedom to simply relax or choose one of Travelmarvel's exciting Select Experiences. For the adventurous, perhaps head out on a jet boat ride. The Shotover Jet Boat roars through dramatic river canyons within centimetres of sheer rock walls.

Meal Plan Breakfast and Lunch
Day 11

Queenstown, Milford Sound, Te Anau

Insider Experience
Cruise the full length of Milford Sound, a magnificent fiord with views of waterfalls, dense rainforest and sheer cliffs.

Follow The Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu to Fiordland National Park. Today, enjoy a memorable cruise on Milford Sound.

Meal Plan Breakfast and Dinner
Duration1 Night
Accommodation

Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau

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    Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau



    The Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau is situated amidst lush gardens, and offers enviable views over the mountains and lakes. Guest rooms are comforting and modern, while an excellent range of amenities are provided. With an on-site restaurant and bar, you needn't look far for entertainment …

    The Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau is situated amidst lush gardens, and offers enviable views over the mountains and lakes. Guest rooms are comforting and modern, while an excellent range of amenities are provided. With an on-site restaurant and bar, you needn't look far for entertainment during your stay. The hotel boasts 94 guest rooms, with twin, double and adjoining rooms for families.

    Facilities

    • Bar(s)
    • Conference Facilities
    • Internet Access
    • Parking
    • Restaurant(s)
    • Secretarial Service
    • Wheelchair Accessible Rooms

    More Details

    Preferred Hotel
Day 12

Te Anau, Dunedin

Enjoy spectacular scenery today as you drive from Te Anau to the Scottish-flavoured southern city of Dunedin.

Meal Plan Breakfast and Dinner
Duration1 Night
Accommodation

Scenic Hotel Dunedin City

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    Scenic Hotel Dunedin City



    Just 2 blocks from the Octagon in the heart of the city, Scenic Hotel Dunedin City is close to shops, parks and the best city attractions and services. Guests visiting for business in Dunedin will find the central location extremely convenient. Warm and comfortable guest …

    Just 2 blocks from the Octagon in the heart of the city, Scenic Hotel Dunedin City is close to shops, parks and the best city attractions and services. Guests visiting for business in Dunedin will find the central location extremely convenient. Warm and comfortable guest rooms will welcome you back at the end of a day of sightseeing.

    Facilities

    • Bar(s)
    • Conference Facilities
    • Currency Exchange
    • Gym/Fitness Centre
    • Internet Access
    • Laundry facilities
    • Laundry/Dry Cleaning Service
    • Parking (Paid)
    • Reception (24 hrs)
    • Restaurant(s)
    • Room Service

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    Preferred Hotel
Day 13

Dunedin, Lake Tekapo

Journey north to view the Moeraki Boulders then continue to Oamaru and visit the tiny Church of the Good Shepherd on the shores of Lake Tekapo. Later, arrive at your resort.

Meal Plan Breakfast and Dinner
Duration1 Night
Accommodation

Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo

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    Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo



    Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo is located overlooking the breathtaking Lake Tekapo between Christchurch and Queenstown on New Zealand's South Island. The hotel has spectacular views across Lake Tekapo, the focal point of the Mackenzie Basin. This is the perfect base for exploring the region …

    Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo is located overlooking the breathtaking Lake Tekapo between Christchurch and Queenstown on New Zealand's South Island. The hotel has spectacular views across Lake Tekapo, the focal point of the Mackenzie Basin. This is the perfect base for exploring the region including Mt Cook National Park. There are 60 stylish lakeside rooms offered in a range of accommodation options including one, two and three bedroom luxury villas and apartments. Rakinui Restaurant and Lounge is a place to eat, drink and relax amongst warm friendly surroundings.

    Facilities

    • Bar(s)
    • Concierge
    • Conference Facilities
    • Daycare/Babysitting Service
    • Express Check In/Out
    • Internet Access
    • Lounge(s)
    • Reception (24 hrs)
    • Restaurant(s)
    • Room Service

    More Details

Day 14

Aoraki/Mount Cook, Christchurch

Insider Experience
View majestic Aoraki Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak.

Head into the stunning scenery of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Later, head back to Christchurch for a special Farewell Dinner.

Meal Plan Breakfast and Dinner
Duration1 Night
Accommodation

Sudima Hotel Christchurch Airport

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Location View map
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    Sudima Hotel Christchurch Airport



    Sudima Hotel Christchurch Airport is located just two minutes from Christchurch's domestic and international airport terminals. It offers a courtesy shuttle and is less than 10 a minute drive from the Central Business District. The hotel is central to motorways north and south of Christchurch …

    Sudima Hotel Christchurch Airport is located just two minutes from Christchurch's domestic and international airport terminals. It offers a courtesy shuttle and is less than 10 a minute drive from the Central Business District.

    The hotel is central to motorways north and south of Christchurch and is adjacent to the very popular Antarctic Centre. There are 156 rooms including family rooms and suites. Hotel facilities include a cocktail bar, restaurant and swimming pool.

    Facilities

    • Bar(s)
    • Barbeques (BBQ)
    • Conference Facilities
    • Internet Access
    • Laundry facilities
    • Parking
    • Pool (s)
    • Reception (24 hrs)
    • Restaurant(s)
    • Room Service
    • Spa(Hot-tub)/Jacuzzi

    More Details

Day 15

Depart Christchurch

Your tour concludes after breakfast with a transfer to the airport.

Meal Plan Breakfast

Other Information

DEPARTURES:

2023: Mar 19; Apr 9; Sep 9, 16; Oct 7, 21; Nov 4, 18; Dec 2, 16
2024: Jan 6, 20; Feb 3, 17; Mar 2, 16, 30; Apr 6, 20; May 4

PRICE INCLUDES:

  • Shared arrival and departure airport transfers
  • 2 nights moderate accommodation in Auckland
  • 2 nights moderate accommodation in Rotorua
  • 2 nights moderate accommodation in Wellington
  • 2 nights moderate accommodation in Christchurch
  • 1 night moderate accommodation in Fox Glacier
  • 2 nights moderate accommodation in Queenstown
  • 1 night moderate accommodation in Te Anau
  • 1 night moderate accommodation in Dunedin
  • 1 night moderate accommodation in Lake Tekapo
  • Sightseeing as per itinerary
  • Service of a dedicated Tour Director and Driver
  • Local guides in select locations
  • Travel by luxury coach
  • 14 breakfast, 1 lunch, 9 dinners

PRICE EXCLUDES:

  • Travel insurance
  • International and domestic airfare & airfare taxes
  • Visa fees if applicable
  • Meals and beverages not mentioned
  • Gratuities
  • Items of a personal nature

TERMS AND CONDITIONS:

Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please inquire.

TB AUSTRALAUC23RA: NTR15
6 Apr 2024
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