Grand Pacific Tours 16 Day Ultimate Highlights

On arrival into Christchurch you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening enjoy a complimentary pre-dinner drink as you meet your travelling companions.

Staying in Hotel The George or similar

• The George Christchurch typifies luxury at every level.  Located in the heart of Christchurch overlooking the picturesque Hagley Park and River Avon.  The only luxury 5-star boutique hotel in Christchurch with a one-to-one staff to guest ratio, guaranteeing impeccable service.  The modern, soothing and relaxing rooms provide everything for a memorable visit with sumptuously comfortable beds and furnishings, elegant white tiled bathrooms, generous toiletries, and room amenities to ensure you will have the most blissfully comfortable stay.

After an introductory city sights tour depart Christchurch and travel through the southern Canterbury Plains to Lake Tekapo. See the brilliant turquoise water, The Church of the Good Shepherd and the Sheep Dog Statue. Marvel at the spectacular mountain ranges including Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. The opportunity is available to enjoy a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the Southern Alps.

Staying in Hotel The Hermitage Hotel (Aoraki Wing)

• Nestled in the beautiful Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, The Hermitage Hotel is the perfect base for your next adventure surrounded by breath-taking glaciers, terminal lakes, turbulent rivers and Australasia's tallest peak, the mighty Aoraki Mt Cook soaring above at 3,724 metres. The iconic Hermitage Hotel is home to a selection of restaurants and bars and contains 164 rooms all with ensuites, complimentary wireless internet and much more.    

Depart Mt Cook, see Lake Benmore and follow the Waitaki River to Oamaru. Continue south to Dunedin, enjoy a city tour followed by free time. You might be interested in a tour to see local wildlife in their natural habitat (optional).

Staying in Hotel Distinction Dunedin Hotel

• 2019 Travellers Choice Winner and ranked 3rd out of all hotels in NZ on TripAdvisor the Distinction Dunedin Hotel is elegant, luxurious and located in the rejuvenated and vibrant Warehouse Precinct in the heart of the city.  The ideal combination of style and functionality. These air-conditioned Dunedin Studios offer a cloud-like super king bed and modern ensuite bathroom with a luxurious dual fixture walk-in rain shower plus complimentary Distinction toiletries.

This morning travel along the Otago Peninsula to Larnach Castle where you will hear of the tragic and scandalous history on a guided tour. Enjoy time to wander around this Garden of International Significance followed by an Ultimate High Tea in the Grand Ballroom. Farewell Dunedin and travel through Balclutha and Gore to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland and your overnight stay. Today you may like to visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves (optional).

Staying in Hotel Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas

• Surrounded by extensive, colourful gardens and overlooking spectacular Lake Te Anau and the Fiordland ranges this elegant 4 star hotel and villa accommodation sets the tone for your stay in one of the world’s most breathtaking regions. You will stay in a spacious and superbly appointed room with striking views of Lake Te Anau from your window.

Depart Te Anau for a fascinating drive to Milford Sound where you board your launch for a cruise on this magnificent fiord. See the spectacular Bowen Falls and towering Mitre Peak as you enjoy lunch. This afternoon travel to Queenstown, overlooking magical Lake Wakatipu. Spend the next two nights at this year-round resort which offers a wide range of activities and attractions. This evening is at leisure, you may choose to dine at one of the many fine restaurants.

Staying in Hotel Heritage Queenstown (2 nights)

• Queenstown, New Zealand’s mountain playground, is one of the great alpine regions of the world and the charming Heritage Queenstown Hotel calls this place home - the resort offers a hotel experience certain to leave you breathless.

  The vistas from Heritage Queenstown are awe-inspiring - soak in the view of the towering Remarkables mountain range, rising from the rippling waters of Lake Wakatipu from the comfort of the hotel. Crafted from centuries-old schist stone and cedar, this comfortable and sophisticated Queenstown hotel is the perfect place to relax.

  Our spacious, beautifully appointed Queenstown hotel rooms cater for all with rooms and suites taking in a variety of views of either the surrounding forest and towering mountains or the majestic Lake Wakatipu, surely one of the most beautiful views to be found in Queenstown, New Zealand.

Today is a free day for you to explore Queenstown with many optional activities available. You may wish to enjoy the thrill of a jet boat ride or a heritage tour of the scenic Skippers Canyon. 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 Heritage Queenstown

• Queenstown, New Zealand’s mountain playground, is one of the great alpine regions of the world and the charming Heritage Queenstown Hotel calls this place home - the resort offers a hotel experience certain to leave you breathless.

  The vistas from Heritage Queenstown are awe-inspiring - soak in the view of the towering Remarkables mountain range, rising from the rippling waters of Lake Wakatipu from the comfort of the hotel. Crafted from centuries-old schist stone and cedar, this comfortable and sophisticated Queenstown hotel is the perfect place to relax.

  Our spacious, beautifully appointed Queenstown hotel rooms cater for all with rooms and suites taking in a variety of views of either the surrounding forest and towering mountains or the majestic Lake Wakatipu, surely one of the most beautiful views to be found in Queenstown, New Zealand.

Travel to Arrowtown, an old goldmining village and visit the Lakes District Museum. Continue via the Haast Pass to the West Coast, an area of stunning beauty. See the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel north to the township of Fox Glacier. Next you visit Franz Josef, where time is available to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the spectacular glaciers before arriving at your hotel.

Staying in Hotel Te Waonui Forest Retreat

• Te Waonui Forest Retreat is truly luxurious and can be found in an area of native rainforest which has been carefully preserved. All the guest room balconies look out into the rainforest, which contains mature trees up to 20m high. Guests get a real sense of seclusion and privacy during their stay. Lavishly appointed guest rooms, generously proportioned and featuring the highest standard of room amenities, such as your own personal pillow menu, natural wool mattress underlay and high-speed Internet access. 

Travel to Hokitika and visit the Greenstone Factory. Continue to Arthur’s Pass and board the TranzAlpine, renowned as one of the great train journeys of the world. View rivers and valleys as you travel through the Waimakariri Basin, over massive viaducts and through the patchwork farmlands of the Canterbury Plains. On arrival into the elegant city of Christchurch, your Ultimate Coach will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel.

Staying in Hotel The George

• The George Christchurch typifies luxury at every level.  Located in the heart of Christchurch overlooking the picturesque Hagley Park and River Avon.  The only luxury 5-star boutique hotel in Christchurch with a one-to-one staff to guest ratio, guaranteeing impeccable service.  The modern, soothing and relaxing rooms provide everything for a memorable visit with sumptuously comfortable beds and furnishings, elegant white tiled bathrooms, generous toiletries, and room amenities to ensure you will have the most blissfully comfortable stay.

Travel along the East Coast to the seaside village of Kaikōura. Enjoy the spectacular scenery as you travel through Marlborough Country, famous for its food and wine. Continue to Picton, where you will board the Interislander Ferry and experience the comfort and intimate setting of the Premium Lounge. Enjoy complimentary refreshments as you travel through the Marlborough Sounds to Wellington.

Staying in Hotel InterContinental Wellington (Premium Room) (2 nights)

• Adjacent to Wellington’s waterfront, InterContinental Wellington is the most centrally located and experienced global five-star hotel in New Zealand’s capital city. It is the seamless and personal service of the team that makes your Wellington accommodation and travel experience truly memorable. Staying in the sophisticated styling of a Premium Guest Room you will enjoy an enriching stay featuring walk-in showers, with handheld and rain shower heads, digital lighting controls and much more. Feel rejuvenated in the morning after a tranquil night’s sleep on your king bed inspired to uncover the New Zealand capital.

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 which showcases the history and culture on show. Enjoy free time this afternoon and this evening is also free to choose your own dining arrangements.

Staying in Hotel InterContinental Wellington (Premium Room)

• Adjacent to Wellington’s waterfront, InterContinental Wellington is the most centrally located and experienced global five-star hotel in New Zealand’s capital city. It is the seamless and personal service of the team that makes your Wellington accommodation and travel experience truly memorable. Staying in the sophisticated styling of a Premium Guest Room you will enjoy an enriching stay featuring walk-in showers, with handheld and rain shower heads, digital lighting controls and much more. Feel rejuvenated in the morning after a tranquil night’s sleep on your king bed inspired to uncover the New Zealand capital.

Depart Wellington and view the snowcapped peaks of Mt Ruapehu and Mt Tongariro as you travel to Lake Taupo. Visit the spectacular Huka Falls then travel along the Thermal Explorer Highway to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua.

Staying in Hotel Regent of Rotorua (2 nights)

• The Regent of Rotorua is an exquisitely designed oasis of understated elegance located in the Rotorua city centre, featuring contemporary decor with a touch of opulence. The rooms offer a taste of glamour including king beds, leather headboards, sumptuous linens and down pillows/duvet.

Today begins with a gondola ride and breakfast at Skyline Rotorua where spectacular views are on offer. 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. Free time is available 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 Regent of Rotorua

• The Regent of Rotorua is an exquisitely designed oasis of understated elegance located in the Rotorua city centre, featuring contemporary decor with a touch of opulence. The rooms offer a taste of glamour including king beds, leather headboards, sumptuous linens and down pillows/duvet.

This morning depart Rotorua and travel north through Whangarei to the Bay of Islands. This afternoon 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.

This morning you will explore the scenic beauty of the Bay of Islands including an island visit aboard a luxury catamaran. Cruise to Cape Brett and the famous ‘Hole in the Rock’, keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine life. On return to Paihia, enjoy a free afternoon where a range of optional activities are available, or you may choose to relax and enjoy the pleasant atmosphere of the waterfront. This evening is also at leisure, 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.

Depart the Bay of Islands this morning and travel via Whangarei and Dargaville to Matakohe. Enjoy a visit and informative talk at the Kauri Museum before continuing to Auckland for a city sights tour. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner including selected beverages with your newfound friends.

Staying in Hotel Crowne Plaza Auckland

• Nestled in the vibrant heart of downtown Auckland, Crowne Plaza Auckland offers a truly magnificent experience infused with kiwi charm. Explore the enchanting ‘city of sails’ from the inside out thanks to the great location. After an exciting day of sightseeing, retreat to the comfort of your spacious room, meticulously designed to cater for the modern traveller. 

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