Grand Pacific 19 Day Signature Rail, Cruise & Coach

On arrival into Auckland, you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening enjoy a complimentary pre-dinner drink when you meet your Tour Leader and travelling companions for dinner.

Staying in Hotel SkyCity Hotel

• Everything is at your fingertips, and exceptional experiences happen every day at SkyCity Hotel.  A place where you can enjoy genuine Kiwi hospitality and modern, spacious accommodation.

  Explore the sights and sounds of vibrant Auckland, including the iconic Sky Tower. Experience magnificent dining with over 20 restaurants, cafes and bars close by, not to mention the exciting SkyCity Casino. Relax and refresh with world-class facilities and services, where your comfort is a priority. The rooms are modern and spacious featuring designer bathrooms with luxurious amenities. 

Enjoy a city tour of Auckland, dubbed the ‘City of Sails’, before travelling to Matakohe to enjoy a visit and informative talk at the Kauri Museum. Travel via Whangarei to Paihia, situated in the heart of the beautiful Bay of Islands. Enjoy a guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the location of the signing of the treaty between the Māori tribes and the British.

Staying in Hotel Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands (2 nights)

• Any time of year is ideal for escaping to the Bay of Islands in the ‘Winterless North’, and this property, situated at the entrance to the seaside town of Paihai, is the perfect resort-style retreat.

  The entire property has been extensively refurbished and expanded, and the attention to detail is sure to impress.  The island-influenced architecture with expansive sub-tropical gardens, water features, extensive guest facilities and easy walking access to Paihia’s main local attractions makes this 4-star Hotel a standout.

Today is a free day. Choose from the many optional activities available, including the Cape Reinga coach trip via Ninety Mile Beach or a spectacular scenic flight. This evening is also free, you may like to enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise (optional).

Staying in Hotel Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands

• Any time of year is ideal for escaping to the Bay of Islands in the ‘Winterless North’, and this property, situated at the entrance to the seaside town of Paihai, is the perfect resort-style retreat.

  The entire property has been extensively refurbished and expanded, and the attention to detail is sure to impress.  The island-influenced architecture with expansive sub-tropical gardens, water features, extensive guest facilities and easy walking access to Paihia’s main local attractions makes this 4-star Hotel a standout.

This morning cruise through the beautiful Bay of Islands aboard a luxury catamaran to Cape Brett, where a historic lighthouse keeps watch over Piercy Island, or as it is popularly known, the ‘Hole in the Rock’. Keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine life. Upon return to Paihia, travel south via Whangarei, before returning to Auckland. This evening is free to explore the many eateries surrounding your hotel.

Staying in Hotel SkyCity Hotel

• Everything is at your fingertips, and exceptional experiences happen every day at SkyCity Hotel.  A place where you can enjoy genuine Kiwi hospitality and modern, spacious accommodation.

  Explore the sights and sounds of vibrant Auckland, including the iconic Sky Tower. Experience magnificent dining with over 20 restaurants, cafes and bars close by, not to mention the exciting SkyCity Casino. Relax and refresh with world-class facilities and services, where your comfort is a priority. The rooms are modern and spacious featuring designer bathrooms with luxurious amenities. 

This morning travel to Glenbrook Vintage Railway for a nostalgic 15 kilometre trip back in time on a beautifully restored vintage steam train including a delightful morning tea. Depart Glenbrook and travel through magnificent countryside of rolling hills and green pastures famous for dairying. Continue to Rotorua renowned for its geothermal activity and Māori culture.

Staying in Hotel Pullman Rotorua (City View Room) (2 nights)

• Situated in the heart of the city and moments away from the lakefront, Pullman Rotorua is the perfect base to explore the region’s geothermal paradise.

  A Pullman stay is an entire experience with 130 luxurious rooms and suites, energising gym, vibrant dining and a chic bar. Pullman is surrounded by surreal scenery and iconic attractions. Discover shooting geysers, bubbling mud, natural hot springs and magical forests.

   Experience a contemporary open-plan room design inspired by the region’s geothermal origins. Windows let in the daylight and views overlooking the vibrant city. The room features a plush Pullman king-size bed and local artwork.

Today begins with a gondola ride and breakfast at Skyline Rotorua. There is also time for a thrilling luge ride! Next stop is the Agrodome for an action-packed hour of farming entertainment and education that is unlike anything you’ve seen before. Enjoy some free time this afternoon before travelling to Te Puia to see the boiling mud pools and awesome geysers that Rotorua is famous for. This evening experience an entertaining Māori Hāngi and Concert.

Staying in Hotel Pullman Rotorua (City View Room)

• Situated in the heart of the city and moments away from the lakefront, Pullman Rotorua is the perfect base to explore the region’s geothermal paradise.

  A Pullman stay is an entire experience with 130 luxurious rooms and suites, energising gym, vibrant dining and a chic bar. Pullman is surrounded by surreal scenery and iconic attractions. Discover shooting geysers, bubbling mud, natural hot springs and magical forests.

   Experience a contemporary open-plan room design inspired by the region’s geothermal origins. Windows let in the daylight and views overlooking the vibrant city. The room features a plush Pullman king-size bed and local artwork.

Travel along the Thermal Explorer Highway to the spectacular Huka Falls. Continue to Lake Taupo for some free time to enjoy this scenic lakeside town. Travel via the Tongariro National Park and continue south to New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington.

Staying in Hotel James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor (Executive Room) (2 nights)

• The James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor presents an engaging selection of rooms, thoughtful amenities and gracious hospitality from the heart of Wellington’s city centre. Recently refurbished this leading accommodation and venue provider is located on The Terrace in New Zealand’s thriving capital city nearby to all major attractions. You will stay in the Executive rooms which are located on the higher floors and showcase contemporary furnishings, deluxe bathrooms with walk-in showers and Forest & Bird amenities.

A highlight this morning will be time to explore Gallipoli: A Scale of War exhibition at Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum. Cutting edge technology brings these stories to life through the eyes of New Zealanders who found themselves in extraordinary circumstances. Reboard your coach for an extensive city tour. Enjoy time at leisure this afternoon and this evening is also free to explore Wellington’s lively food scene.

Staying in Hotel James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor (Executive Room)

• The James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor presents an engaging selection of rooms, thoughtful amenities and gracious hospitality from the heart of Wellington’s city centre. Recently refurbished this leading accommodation and venue provider is located on The Terrace in New Zealand’s thriving capital city nearby to all major attractions. You will stay in the Executive rooms which are located on the higher floors and showcase contemporary furnishings, deluxe bathrooms with walk-in showers and Forest & Bird amenities.

This morning board the Interislander Ferry where you can relax in comfort in the Queen Charlotte Lounge. Enjoy the scenery as you travel through the Marlborough Sounds to Picton. Join the Coastal Pacific, a truly spectacular rail journey that follows a thin wedge of land between the Pacific Ocean and the Kaikōura Ranges. Meet your coach in the fishing village of Kaikōura for the journey to the garden city of Christchurch.

Staying in Hotel Distinction Christchurch Hotel (2 nights)

• Standing amongst the buzz of the rejuvenated Cathedral Square, the Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanic Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. This 11 storey 4.5 star hotel offers refurbished Classic Rooms which combine luxury and relaxation for all holidaymakers. These spacious air-conditioned hotel rooms include the latest technology as well as double glazed windows to ensure a restful night’s sleep. An ensuite bathroom with shower over bath and complimentary Distinction toiletries.

Today visit the International Antarctic Centre, designed to provide an informative account of life in Antarctica. This is followed by an introductory city tour of Christchurch. This afternoon includes a journey on board the Christchurch Tram at leisure. This evening is free to explore the local cuisine.

Staying in Hotel Distinction Christchurch Hotel

• Standing amongst the buzz of the rejuvenated Cathedral Square, the Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanic Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. This 11 storey 4.5 star hotel offers refurbished Classic Rooms which combine luxury and relaxation for all holidaymakers. These spacious air-conditioned hotel rooms include the latest technology as well as double glazed windows to ensure a restful night’s sleep. An ensuite bathroom with shower over bath and complimentary Distinction toiletries.

This morning board the TranzAlpine, renowned as one of the great train journeys of the world. Travel over massive viaducts, river valleys and spectacular gorges as you ascend to Arthur’s Pass located in the centre of the Southern Alps. Board your coach and travel to Hokitika, famous for its Greenstone before arriving at the township of Franz Josef where time is available to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the spectacular glaciers.

Staying in Hotel Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier (Douglas Wing)

• Only a breath away from the spectacular Franz Josef Glacier, in the heart of the village and edge of the Westland World Heritage Park, lies the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier offering everything you need to explore this dramatic region in style and comfort. The professional and friendly staff pride themselves on making your stay enjoyable and comfortable.

See the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel south via the Haast Pass, an area of stunning beauty before arriving into picturesque Queenstown, a year-round resort situated on the shores of magical Lake Wakatipu. This evening is free to dine at one of the many fine restaurants.

Staying in Hotel Millennium Hotel Queenstown (2 nights)

• Right in the heart of the action, Millennium Hotel Queenstown is just minutes from Queenstown central shopping and entertainment district and offers accommodation with scenic views of Queenstown city and mountains, providing the perfect backdrop to your trip. Millennium Hotel Queenstown is a 4-star plus and Enviro-Gold Qualmark rated hotel.  All rooms at Millennium Hotel Queenstown are designed for complete relaxation with its inviting bed and cosy ambience, it’s a good nights rest for sure.

Today is a free day to explore Queenstown. Your Coach Captain and Tour Leader will assist with the many optional activities available. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back, relax and enjoy a delicious gourmet barbecue dinner featuring a menu of seasonal, fresh and locally sourced food at the Colonel’s Homestead. After dinner enjoy a short farm tour then reboard the TSS Earnslaw for a sing along by the piano as you cruise back to Queenstown.

Staying in Hotel Millennium Hotel Queenstown

• Right in the heart of the action, Millennium Hotel Queenstown is just minutes from Queenstown central shopping and entertainment district and offers accommodation with scenic views of Queenstown city and mountains, providing the perfect backdrop to your trip. Millennium Hotel Queenstown is a 4-star plus and Enviro-Gold Qualmark rated hotel.  All rooms at Millennium Hotel Queenstown are designed for complete relaxation with its inviting bed and cosy ambience, it’s a good nights rest for sure.

This morning travel to Arrowtown and visit the Lakes District Museum. Continue via Te Anau to Milford Sound and board the Milford Mariner for your amazing overnight cruise. There is plenty of time to view the fiord’s spectacular waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife - you’re bound to encounter seals and if you’re lucky maybe dolphins and penguins. There are opportunities to explore the shoreline by tender boat or kayak (swimwear required) - or to simply relax on board. As evening falls enjoy a delicious carvery buffet prepared freshly by the onboard chef.

Staying in Overnight Milford Mariner

• This overnight cruise through the heart of Fiordland provides astonishing views and the ultimate Milford Sound adventure. Departing from the Milford Sound wharf in the late afternoon and accompanied by a specialist nature guide explaining the history and geology of the area. This cruise style is relaxed, allowing plenty of time to view the fiord’s spectacular waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife – you’re bound to encounter seals and, if you’re lucky, maybe dolphins and penguins too.

Start the day with a hearty breakfast before heading back out to the Tasman Sea (weather permitting) to explore more of the fiord. Return to the wharf to meet your coach and enjoy the scenic drive to Te Anau where you will enjoy an afternoon at leisure. You may like to visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves (optional).

Staying in Hotel Distinction Luxmore Hotel Lake Te Anau (Deluxe Room)

• Conveniently located in the heart of Te Anau's town shopping centre and a short stroll from the South Island’s largest lake - Lake Te Anau. Escape into the serene surroundings of Distinction Luxmore Hotel before heading out to explore the world-famous beauty of Fiordland including Milford Sound. Enjoy staying in the Deluxe Rooms which are well appointed modern rooms with a Fiordland interior design theme. The hotel offers an excellent standard of service and the team at Distinction Luxmore will make your stay in Te Anau comfortable and enjoyable.

Travel via Gore and Balclutha to Dunedin, famous for its stunning Edwardian and Victorian architecture dating back to the gold rush of the 1800s. This afternoon enjoy a tour of Olveston Historic Home, beautifully preserved merchant’s home from the turn of the century containing a wealth of precious treasures of a bygone era.

Staying in Hotel Scenic Hotel Southern Cross (2 nights)

• The Scenic Hotel Southern Cross is Dunedin’s largest and most established hotel boasting 178 refurbished rooms and suites with modern style, exquisite quality, convenience and exceptional service.  Just a short walk from the Octagon, railway station and close to Otago university, this perfectly located stylish inner city accommodation has everything you need for a relaxing and memorable stay.

This morning travel along the Otago Peninsula to Larnach Castle where you hear of the tragic and scandalous history on a guided tour. Enjoy time to wander around this Garden of International Significance followed by a delicious Devonshire Tea. Return to Dunedin for a city tour followed by some free time for optional activities. This evening is also free to dine at leisure.

Staying in Hotel Scenic Hotel Southern Cross

• The Scenic Hotel Southern Cross is Dunedin’s largest and most established hotel boasting 178 refurbished rooms and suites with modern style, exquisite quality, convenience and exceptional service.  Just a short walk from the Octagon, railway station and close to Otago university, this perfectly located stylish inner city accommodation has everything you need for a relaxing and memorable stay.

Today travel to the small town of Oamaru, famous for its limestone architecture before continuing to Christchurch. This evening enjoy a pre-dinner drink and reminisce on memories shared with your new friends at the farewell dinner.

Staying in Hotel Distinction Christchurch Hotel

• Standing amongst the buzz of the rejuvenated Cathedral Square, the Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanic Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. This 11 storey 4.5 star hotel offers refurbished Classic Rooms which combine luxury and relaxation for all holidaymakers. These spacious air-conditioned hotel rooms include the latest technology as well as double glazed windows to ensure a restful night’s sleep. An ensuite bathroom with shower over bath and complimentary Distinction toiletries.

Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.