8 Day Essential New Zealand
From $2,899pp twin share
This rail holiday is the essential experience for any visitor to New Zealand. Combine the vibrant and diverse cities of Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch together with the three scenic rail journeys and unforgettable Inter-islander Ferry crossing, this great rail adventure will live long in your memory.
- 2 nights stay in Auckland with breakfast
- Half day city tour of Auckland
- Scenic rail journey onboard The Northern Explorer Train between Auckland and Wellington
- 2 nights stay in Wellington with breakfast
- Seats aboard the Interislander ferry from Wellington to Picton
- Coastal Pacific train from Picton to Christchurch
- 3 nights stay in Christchurch
- One Hour guided tour of Te Papa in Wellington
- All hotel, station and airport transfers as per the itinerary
Activities
DAY 1 - AUCKLAND
You will be met on your arrival on this amazing country and driven to your hotel to check in. Spend the rest of the day acclimatizing with this vibrant city and its beautiful harbour. The ‘City of Sails' as its affectionately known as is full of world class restaurants to enjoy dinner. (Overnight Auckland)
DAY 2 - AUCKLAND
Continue exploring Auckland today, starting with an extensive morning tour. Cross the Harbour Bridge and sample an authentic Flat White and a stroll on the beach in Devonport, then pay a visit to the Fish market for some delicious nibbles, and the pretty Viaduct Harbour. Here you could wander around the Auckland museum to discover its rich history, then enjoy the rest of the day at your own leisure. (Overnight Auckland) B
DAY 3 - AUCKLAND TO WELLINGTON
Its an early start this morning as you are collected from your hotel and transferred to the station for a journey aboard the Northern Explorer Train* to Wellington. The train ploughs through some amazing and diverse scenery, from rolling countryside to the volcanic mountains of the Tongariro National Park and across the Central Plateau before arriving in the capital city. (Overnight Wellington) B **Please note that the Northern Explorer only operates on Monday, Thursday and Saturday.
DAY 4 - WELLINGTON
Following breakfast head over to Te Papa - New Zealand's amazing National Museum where you have a one hour guided tour included. Then explorer at your own leisure. The cable-car to Kelburn is certainly a highlight as would be a tour of the impressive Parliament Buildings. (Overnight Wellington) B
DAY 5 - WELLINGTON TO CHRISTCHURCH
Today you are escorted to the ferry terminal then cross the legendary Cook Strait onboard the Interislander ferry. Once across this busy and unpredictable stretch of water you will enjoy some jaw dropping scenery as the ship navigates the Fjord like Queen Charlotte Sound to Picton. From here take the scenic Coastal Pacific Train* down the pacific coastline to Christchurch where you will be escorted to your hotel. (Overnight Christchurch) B **The Coastal Pacific is a seasonal train, running from Spring (October) through to Autumn (April). Between April-October, the rail service will be replaced by coach
DAY 6 - CHRISTCHURCH
Enjoy a day exploring ‘the most English city outside England' today. Be sure to pay the Botanic Gardens a visit and ride the historic tram around the city. Also don't miss the Canterbury Museum and the Christchurch Art Gallery. (Overnight Christchurch) B
DAY 7 - TRANZ-ALPINE DAY TRIP
You are collected this morning and transferred to the station for the early departure of the Tranz-Alpine train and one of the world's most scenic rail journeys. Travelling west crossing the Canterbury Plains, the train slowly ascends through spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River and on to Arthurs Pass. From here it heads into the Southern Alps where the views are breath-taking at times, prior to hitting the coast. Grab some lunch in this atmospheric old mining town before getting back on the train to make your way back to Christchurch. (Overnight Christchurch) B
DAY 8 - END OF TOUR
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before taking your car the airport for your flight home, or to continue your travels elsewhere. B
MEAL GUIDE: B - BREAKFAST, BR - BRUNCH, L - LUNCH, AT - AFTERNOON TEA, D -DINNER Alternative hotels may be available.
Terms & Conditions
Prices are subject to availability, based on twin share. Single occupancy supplements will apply for solo travellers. Hotel and room facilities vary and may be subject to additional fees. Some hotels require payment of local city taxes on arrival. Prices are subject to change and seasonal surcharges may apply. We accept all major credit and debit cards. Cruise & Rail Travel ACN...