Essence of New Zealand
APT – Essence of New Zealand
Christchurch to Auckland: 20 days / 19 nights Classic Journey
Visit 20 places, comprehensive & unforgettable journey through North & South Islands
From $10,595pp* twin share
Save up to $2,400 per couple*
Few countries offer the scenic splendour and diversity of ‘The Land of the Long White Cloud’. From the sunny subtropics and coastlines to glaciers in the icy south, New Zealand’s landscapes are breathtaking and unforgettable. Your journey will include travel on the best-in-class classic coaches, taking you through these picture-postcard settings in comfort and style, with an expert Tour Director and knowledgeable local drivers and guides looking after you all the way.
Signature Experiences
– Ride a heritage tram through Christchurch.
– Discover New Zealand’s highest peak in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
– Cruise the pristine Milford Sound/Piopiotahi.
– Drive through glacier country in Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
– Embark on an impressive rail adventure aboard the TranzAlpine Train.
– Savour a Highlights of Marlborough Dinner.
– Cruise across Cook Strait on the Interislander ferry.
– Discover Napier on an Art Deco tour.
– Experience true Māori culture at Te Pā Tū.
– Enjoy a cruise through the Bay of Islands to Cape Brett.
Note: *Prices subject to change. Terms and conditions apply.
Day 1: Arrive Christchurch
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE
Step back in time to a golden era of public transport; enjoying drinks and canapes aboard a heritage tram while taking in the city sights of Christchurch.
On arrival, be met at the airport and transfer to your hotel where you have the afternoon to relax, before enjoying a Signature Experience, followed by a welcome dinner.
Stay: Rydges Latimer Christchurch
Included meals: Dinner
Day 2: Christchurch, Aoraki/Mount Cook
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE
Discover New Zealand’s highest peak, in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
FREEDOM OF CHOICE™
This afternoon, you may during the summer months, board a MAC boat and discover icebergs on the Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake. Alternatively, visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, or enjoy a stargazing session with an astronomer.
Today you’ll traverse the Canterbury plains to visit the Church of the Good Shepherd on the shores of Lake Tekapo. Onwards, you journey into Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park to view New Zealand’s highest mountain: Aoraki/Mount Cook. On arrival, enjoy your sightseeing activity of choice.
Stay: Aoraki/Mount Cook, The Hermitage Hotel
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3: Aoraki/Mount Cook, Dunedin
Set out along the shores of Lake Pukaki to Oamaru. Continue to Koekohe Beach to view the unusual spherical-shaped Moeraki Boulders. Arrive in Dunedin late afternoon and enjoy time at leisure before dinner.
Stay: Distinction Dunedin Hotel
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4: Dunedin, Te Anau
Discover the enchanting Larnach Castle this morning, nestled on the stunning Otago Peninsula on a guided tour. Afterwards, traverse the rolling countryside of the spectacular Southland region, toward the lakeside settlement of Te Anau.
Stay: Two Nights, Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5: Te Anau
FREEDOM OF CHOICE™
Explore an underground network of limestone caves, magically lit by thousands of glow worms. Alternatively, set off on an inspiring wilderness cruise on Doubtful Sound/Patea; or take an exciting jet boat ride along the Upper Waiau River to get the heart pumping.
Waking in Te Anau this morning, decide how to spend your day thanks to our range of Freedom of Choice activities on offer.
Included meals: Breakfast
Day 6: Te Anau, Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, Queenstown
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE
Cruise the pristine Milford Sound/Piopiotahi.
This morning, wind down the Milford Road, through the Eglinton and Hollyford valleys. Continue to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, where you will cruise along the full length of this fiord deep within Fiordland National Park. After, Queenstown awaits.
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7: Queenstown
FREEDOM OF CHOICE™
Movie buffs may like to visit key filming locations from The Lord of the Rings trilogy, on a Safari of the Scenes tour. Alternatively, set out on a Skippers Canyon 4WD adventure tour following the Shotover River Valley. Others may prefer a leisurely cruise on Lake Wakatipu, or a cellar door tour through the wineries of the Central Otago wine region.
FREEDOM OF CHOICE™
On a Freedom of Choice Dining evening perhaps cruise aboard the TSS Earnslaw, a vintage steamboat for a BBQ Dinner at the Walter Peak High Country Farm. Alternatively, enjoy one of the world’s most lauded burgers at Fergburger, experience an array of premium local produce at Finz Restaurant, dine amid the stylish surrounds of the Impressions Restaurant, or take a ride in the iconic Skyline Gondola up Bob’s Peak to Stratosfare Restaurant and enjoy spectacular views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Walter and Cecil Peak and of course, Queenstown.
Today, discover Queenstown your own way with the included Freedom of Choice sightseeing activities. Later, select from a handful of restaurants during a Freedom of Choice Dining evening and savour the tantalising tastes of New Zealand’s celebrated South Island.
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8: Queenstown
Immerse yourself in beautiful Queenstown with a full day at leisure. Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the tranquil shores of Lake Wakatipu, or take part in the thrill of a lifetime in this adventurous city.
Included meals: Breakfast
Day 9: Queenstown, Franz Josef/Waiau
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE
Drive through Westland Tai Poutini National Park and see the dramatic surrounds of the Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere Region.
Skirt the shores of lakes Wanaka and Hawea, before crossing Haast Pass on your journey to Franz Josef/Waiau.
Stay: Franz Josef/Waiau, Te Waonui Forest Retreat
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10: Franz Josef/Waiau, TranzAlpine Train, Christchurch
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE
Board New Zealand’s famous TranzAlpine train to experience one of the world’s greatest rail journeys.
Boarding in Arthur’s Pass take in the magnificent scenery as your cross the Southern Alps, following the Waimakariri River through deep gorges and river valleys. Enjoy stunning views from the open-air viewing platform as you pass the striking patchwork farmland of the Canterbury Plains all the way to Christchurch.
Stay: Rydges Latimer Christchurch
Included meals: Breakfast
Day 11: Christchurch, Kaikoura, Blenheim
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE
Indulge in the finest flavours as you savour a Highlights of Marlborough Dinner. The well-paired fusion of quality produce and multi-ethnic influences have helped shape New Zealand’s food and wine culture as among the best in the world.
This morning, follow the east coast to Kaikoura, before traversing the Marlborough region to Blenheim. Tonight, enjoy a Signature Experience, where local chefs will present each dish before you, showcasing superb local artisan produce, perfectly paired with wines from the region.
Stay: Two Nights, Blenheim, Scenic Hotel Marlborough
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 12: Blenheim
FREEDOM OF CHOICE™
Embark on a tour of the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre; enjoy the sheer beauty of Marlborough Sounds during a Seafood Odyssea Cruise; or choose to visit some of the region’s best wineries for countryside wine tastings.
Enjoy your selected sightseeing activity.
Included meals: Breakfast
Day 13: Blenheim, Picton, Wellington
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE
Cruise across Cook Strait on the Interislander ferry and enjoy the stunning waters of Marlborough and Queen Charlotte sounds.
This morning, take in the breathtaking surrounds while you cruise to the North Island. This afternoon, take part in a fascinating city sights tour of Wellington.
Stay: InterContinental Wellington
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 14: Wellington, Napier
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE
Discover the city of Napier and enjoy a guided tour of this beautiful Art Deco town, rebuilt in the style of that era after the devastating Hawkes Bay earthquake in 1931. Explore the city’s streets and learn about the iconic and unique features of Art Deco design and the history behind each building. Marvel at the intricate detailing, vibrant colours and fascinating stories of this town frozen in time.
Today you’ll drive through the Rimutaka Ranges en route to Napier.
Stay: Napier, Scenic Te Pania Hotel
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 15: Napier, Taupo, Rotorua
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE
Tonight, enjoy an indulgent traditional Maori feast and performance of Haka, song and storytelling at Te Pa Tu (Maori Village). Over a magical evening, you will be welcomed with a Haka powhiri (cultural welcome) and then treated to further captivating performances while enjoying seasonal canapes, chef selected aperitifs and a seasonal three-course dinner.
Today, journey through Esk Valley and Te Pohue, stopping at the charming town of Taupo. Later, travel to Rotorua and enjoy a Signature Experience.
Stay: Two Nights, Millennium Hotel Rotorua
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 16: Rotorua
FREEDOM OF CHOICE™
Perhaps enjoy a sheep show at the Agrodome, followed by a visit to Te Puia Thermal Reserve; visit Wai-O-Tapu; or experience Middle-earth during a tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set.
This morning, it’s time to explore Rotorua on your selected sightseeing activity. The evening is yours at leisure to further explore.
Included meals: Breakfast
Day 17: Rotorua, Auckland
FREEDOM OF CHOICE™
Take a cruise on Waitemata Harbour; enjoy a unique All Blacks experience; visit Auckland Zoo to discover the native flora and fauna of New Zealand; experience and journey behind the cinema curtain with the Academy Award-winning team at Weta Workshop; or escape the bustle of the city on a tour to Auckland’s wild, black sand beaches and lush rainforest.
This morning, travel through Waikato’s farmland to Auckland. Afterwards, enjoy your selected sightseeing activity.
Stay: Auckland, Crowne Plaza
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 18: Auckland, Bay of Islands
Cross Auckland’s Harbour Bridge and travel along the Hibiscus Coast. Stop at Parry Kauri Park to view the large kauri trees and soak up the rich pioneering history of the Northland region. Continue to the Bay of Islands.
Stay: Two Nights, Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands
Included meals: Breakfast
Day 19: Bay of Islands
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE
Enjoy a catamaran cruise to Cape Brett and the Hole in the Rock. Meander through the inner islands, admiring the sandy beaches and rocky outcrops.
See the spectacular Bay of Islands region on a cruise. Afterwards, the afternoon is free for you to further explore, before your farewell dinner.
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 20: Bay of Islands, Depart Auckland
After breakfast, travel to Auckland where your New Zealand adventure concludes. We say goodbye before we transfer you to the airport for your flight.
Included meals: Breakfast
Inclusions
- All-inspiring experiences in 16 destinations
- Locally inspired dining – a total of 32 meals
- 19 nights in hand-picked accommodation
-
Freedom of Choice inclusions in seven locations
- Services of an APT Tour Director and Driver, plus expert local guides
- Return airport transfers and porterage
Terms & Conditions
Our professional services are available for the purchase of any type of travel, however the following charges apply:
1. Administration Planning Service
Should a detailed itinerary/quote be requested a non-refundable planning fee will be charged per itinerary, as per the Schedule of Fees, prior to each itinerary being prepared.
2. Itinerary/Reservation Cancellation
The itinerary/reservation deposit is payable at the time the reservation is requested and is in addition to any deposit fees charged by the tour operator/airline or other travel supplier. The itinerary/reservation deposit is non-refundable BUT if you proceed with the booking, the amount of the itinerary/reservation deposit will be credited against the final amount payable. If you do not proceed with or subsequently cancel the booking, the itinerary/reservation deposit is non-refundable and is in addition to cancellation fees imposed by travel principals and Southside World Travel.
3. Amendments
Any changes made to a confirmed, deposited or finalised booking prior to departure will attract an amendment fee as per the Schedule of Fees, plus any communications costs incurred in securing further confirmations.
4. Visa, Re-entry Permits etc.
A fee, as detailed in the Schedule of Fees, inclusive of registration postage and/or courier fees is payable in addition to any Government and/or Consular fees.
5. Extraordinary Costs
In the unlikely event we are unable to meet your requirements through our normal booking process or you request a late booking which requires urgent attention, we will let you know. If you wish us to continue with the booking any additional costs as notified to you, such as telephone and other communication expenses, courier charges, any associated bank costs for urgent remittance of funds, etc. will be payable by the client.
6. Insurance
We may ask you to sign a declaration if you do not accept our recommendation that you affect travel insurance. Travel insurance provides cover when the premium is paid and the policy issued, and so should be taken out as soon as any deposit or payment is made.
In the event that you elect to take out insurance with another provider (not supplied by us), the following fees will apply when providing documentation for any claim:
Administration fee for Insurance
Domestic: from $75.00 per person
Asia Pacific: from $110.00 per person
International from $150.00 per person*
7. GST Provision
If a goods and services tax (GST) or similar tax is or becomes payable in respect of any supply made to you under this agreement, then in addition to the fee payable, you must pay the amount of GST payable in respect of that fee. The GST is payable at the same time and in the same manner as the fee or at such later time as Southside World Travel may request.
SCHEDULE OF FEES (including GST)
Please note: Any fees that apply to your booking will be documented in your quote and confirmation letter.
Itinerary Planning Fee / Reservation Deposit
from $150.00
*Itinerary/reservation deposit taken off final balance
Should a detailed itinerary/quote be requested with flight times and availability, combined with a tour or accommodation component, a non-refundable planning fee will be charged prior to each itinerary/reservation being prepared.
Itinerary / Reservation Cancellation Fee
from $150.00
* In addition to fees charged by operators
* Cancellation Fee once travel is paid in full – from 10% of total value of trip (see your travel insurance policy)
Airfare Ticketing Fees
Domestic: from $75.00 per person
Asia Pacific: from $110.00 per person
International: from $150.00 per person*
*Dependent on destination and routing
Amendment Fees
Domestic: from $75.00 per person
Asia Pacific: from $110.00 per person
International: from $150.00 per person*
*Per amendment after payment of deposits and in addition to fees charged by operator
Frequent Flyer Bookings
Domestic: from $75.00 per person
Asia Pacific: from $110.00 per person
International: from $150.00 per person*
*Only applies where Southside World Travel processes Frequent Flyer Bookings on behalf of clients
Payment
Our preferred method of payment is by direct deposit or credit card. We use TravelPay to process all credit and debit card transactions.
Payment by credit card/debit cards to suppliers MAY incur a surcharge between 1.0% and 3.0% (ask your consultant for details). Credit card payments made to Southside World Travel (via Travelpay) will incur a surcharge as follows:
– Mastercard/Debit Card – 1.4%
– Visa Card/Debit Card – 1.6%
– Amex Card – 2.2%
*Credit Card/Debit Cards refunds require 5 x business working days to process.
*Personal cheques take 5 x business working days to clear.
Responsibility Clause
All coupons, vouchers, receipts and tickets are issued subject to the terms and conditions specified by the suppliers. By accepting the coupon, vouchers, tickets and utilizing our services, you agree that, apart from certain rights you have under the Trade Practices Act, neither Southside World Travel nor any subsidiary company or representative, shall be liable for any loss, injury or damage to you or your belongings or otherwise arising in any way of our services to you.
Your travel consultant will advise you on passport and visa requirements, but it is your responsibility to ensure you comply with these regulations before travelling.
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