NEW ZEALAND COACH HOLIDAYS
2019/20 International Tariff. Valid for departures September 2019 - May 2020
New Zealand
COACH HOLIDAY SPECIALIST
Hokianga
Waitomo
Nelson
Punakaiki
Doubtful Sound
Hanmer Springs
Contents 2
NEW ZEALAND COACH HOLIDAY SPECIALIST Experience is the GPT difference Resources On Demand > gptnzNOW.com Ultimate Coach / Modern fleet / 5 styles of touring Accommodation Attractions
2-3 4-5 6-9 10 - 15 16 - 17
ULTIMATE SMALL GROUP TOURS Business class on wheels. Max 20 travellers 19 Day Ultimate Rail, Cruise & Coach Experience 19 Day Ultimate Discovery 16 Day Ultimate Explorer 10 Day Ultimate South Island Escape 9 Day Ultimate North Island Escape 11 Day Ultimate SOLO Travellers Tour 11 Day Ultimate Christmas Tour 11 Day Ultimate New Year Escape
16 - 17 20 - 21 22 - 23 24 - 25 26 - 27 28 29 30 31
SIGNATURE COACH TOURS Experience the difference. Unique attractions 19 Day New Zealand Rail, Cruise & Coach Holiday 19 Day New Zealand Showcase 10 Day South Island Spectacular 9 Day Northern Spectacular
30 - 31 34 - 37 38 - 39 40 - 41 42 - 43
AFFORDABLE COACH TOURS Unbeatable value. No hidden extras 16 Day Highlights of New Zealand Tour 14 Day New Zealand Panorama Tour 9 Day Taste of the South Island 8 Day Taste of the North Island
42 - 43 46 - 47 48 - 49 50 - 51 52 - 53
SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS Let your interests take you on a journey 17 Day Festive Season Tour 11 Day Festive South Island Tour 16 Day SOLO Travellers Highlights Tour
52 - 53 56 - 57 58 - 59 60 - 61
As the market leader for New Zealand Coach Holidays, we offer five styles of touring to suit all budgets and interests Affordable; Signature; Ultimate Small Group; Cruise & Coach and Special Interest, with over 200 GUARANTEED departures per year.
62
Grand Pacific Tours best testimony is the terrific feedback we receive from our past travellers who in turn tell their friends how well they were looked after. We take care of it all leaving your travellers to get on with creating incredible holiday memories!
CRUISE & COACH TOURS Discover New Zealand by sea and land Overview of itineraries 23 Day Best of New Zealand by Cruise & Coach
18
32
44
54
60 - 61 64 - 65 66 - 67
Kia ora Welcome to New Zealand
G
rand Pacific Tours, the New Zealand Coach Holiday Specialist, provide a comprehensive range of all inclusive, value for money holidays offering a highly professional and personalised service to thousands of travellers every year.
“Taking a coach tour is the best way to make your holiday an unforgettable experience. From the time you arrive in New Zealand a friendly smile awaits.”
Taking a coach tour is the best way to make your holiday an unforgettable experience. From the time you arrive in New Zealand a friendly smile awaits. Our professional crew have been specially trained, meaning you can relax in the knowledge that everything is taken care of.
68
GENERAL INFORMATION AND FACTS Documentation and Merchandise 66 Booking Terms and Conditions 69 Tariff prices 70 Contacts IBC
Peter Harding Managing Director
gptnzNOW.com
1
New Zealand
COACH HOLIDAY SPECIALIST
“A wonderful experience! The service provided from the drivers and guides was of the highest standard. We will definitely be recommending Grand Pacific Tours to all our friends.� - S. & V. G. - Past Travellers
Experience is the Grand Pacific Tours difference
Trade only partner. No direct bookings taken
2
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
We only sell one destination. You are dealing with a specialist
Five styles of touring. 200+ departure dates ALL GUARANTEED to operate
Main mix of markets on tour is made of up British, Aussies, Americans and Canadians (like-minded travellers)
Tours are ALL INCLUSIVE which saves your clients time and money
Professional crew are trained to perform Grand Pacific Tours itineraries
Staff are all committed to ensure your clients have the best possible holiday experience
Specialty groups department for 10 or more travellers
gptnzNOW.com
3
New Zealand
COACH HOLIDAY SPECIALIST
Resources on demand gptnzNOW.com
Stay informed on important TOUR UPDATEZ + newly released departure dates >> 4
Download brochures, itineraries, maps, promo flyers + MORE!
SIGN IN / REGISTER GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
>>
Access the full IMAGE library for print and online use
Copy the embedded code for VIDEOS of coach touring and New Zealand
We encourage you to register to have access to everything you need on one easy to use platform.
Simple. Smart. Service LIVE AVAILABILITY via gptnzNOW.com Our online LIVE AVAILABLITY booking system can be accessed 24/7 Check tour prices, availability and hold seats in ‘real time’ Instantly secure a booking for your clients’ preferred tour and travel date An invoice will be sent as confirmation by our Reservations Department
Latest BONUS OFFERS and promotions
Tour Documentation and GPT merchandise range
Points of difference within the GPT product range
Key contacts, FAQ, all the latest GPT NewZ + MORE!
gptnzNOW.com
5
New Zealand
COACH HOLIDAY SPECIALIST
The Ultimate coach Business class on wheels
20 luxury leather fully reclining seats with adjustable headrest
6
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
Panoramic viewing, air conditioning, seat belts and onboard restroom
Wood grain timber tray table with built-in cup holder
Seat side personal storage providing easy access to your travel bag
Ultimate Small Group Tours
G
rand Pacific Tours are proud to offer the most
luxurious coach experience
Maximum of only 20 travellers Ultimate Coach Captain handpicked and of the highest quality • 4.5 star hotel accommodation • Majority of meals included • Complimentary pre dinner welcome drink to meet your travelling companions • Intimate farewell dinner including beverages • Souvenir water bottle • BONUS Group photo • 8 tour options ranging from 9 - 19 days Refer to pages 18 - 31 •
on the market. Featuring just
•
20 deluxe leather seats on a full size coach (13.5 metres long) travellers are treated to a very intimate and personal holiday experience. Combined with 4.5 star accommodation and a number of exclusive extras this Ultimate Tour experience is only available with Grand Pacific Tours.
Personal audio control unit with multiple music channels and a complimentary set of headphones
Stylish centre galley area equipped with refrigerated drinking fountain and fridge units
Complimentary daily onboard Wi-Fi allowance
Access to daily newspapers and range of glossy magazines
gptnzNOW.com
7
New Zealand
COACH HOLIDAY SPECIALIST
Other touring styles Modern coach fleet
48 seat modern coach
Reclining cloth trimmed seats
Panoramic windows, air-conditioning and seat belts
CD & DVD player, entertainment system
Coach touring New Zealand with GPT is an unforgettable experience 8
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
The 48 seat modern coach fleet is utilised across our other 4 touring styles . . . SIGNATURE COACH TOURS Best overall value for money based on what is included • Relaxed pace featuring more 2 nights stays • 4 star hotel accommodation • Majority of meals included • See some of the lesser visited regions • Professional Coach Captain & Tour Guide • Some of our most popular tours • 4 fully escorted tour options ranging from 9 - 19 days Refer to pages 32 - 43
Affordable COACH TOURS Unbeatable value for money • Ideal tours for the budget or time conscious traveller • 3.5 star hotel accommodation • Majority of meals included • Extensive prepaid sights that other similar programs can’t match • Professional Coach Captain & Tour Guide • 4 fully escorted tour options ranging from 8 - 16 days Refer to pages 44 - 53
Lowering devices and air bag suspension
2 door access
•
•
Special Interest Tours Solo Tours include a GUARANTEED single room and no single supplement • Festive Tours operate over Christmas and New Year • North Island Garden Tour featuring the Taranaki Garden Festival (Oct 2019) • Aviation Tours including Warbirds Over Wanaka (Easter 2020) • Refer to pages 54 - 61 •
Cold water storage available
Cruise & Coach TOURS Celebrity Solstice Cruise combined with a scenic Coach Tour of New Zealand ensuring the complete experience • Fully escorted by a professional Tour Guide • Deluxe Balcony Cabin, worldclass dining in a range of unique venues (Breakfast, lunch & dinner daily), awesome entertainment and inspiring activities • See the best of New Zealand’s iconic attractions and stunning scenery and stay in 4 star hotel accommodation • 4 fully escorted options ranging from 21 - 23 days Refer to pages 62 - 67 •
Onboard restroom and antiseptic gel hand pumps
Take in the breathtaking views from every seat on a daily seat rotation gptnzNOW.com
9
New Zealand
COACH HOLIDAY SPECIALIST
Relax in style A home away from home
G
rand Pacific Tours provides three standards of hotel accommodation in line with the positioning of each tour and its price range. When deciding which properties are to be included in our tours, Grand Pacific Tours management personally inspect on a regular basis each hotel to ensure the service, dĂŠcor, cleanliness, meals and the general operation meet the criteria required.
3 standards of hotel accommodation At each hotel, a member of the management team will meet the Grand Pacific Tours coach on arrival and provide a full introduction to the hotel and explain the facilities and surrounds
10
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
AFFORDABLE COACH 3.5 star HOTEL ACCOMMODATION The hotels used on the Affordable Tours are rated 3.5 star. Each hotel selected represents excellent value for money, offers clean and comfortable surrounds, excellent restaurant facilities plus genuine Kiwi hospitality. Location is still paramount, in Paihia, an aquatic playground, you will be perfectly positioned for two nights on the waterfront with stunning views of the brilliant blue green sea.
SIGNATURE COACH 4 star HOTEL ACCOMMODATION The hotel range utilised on the Signature Tours represent a 4 star rating. Many of the hotels selected offer a range of rooms such as Superior, Deluxe or Lakeview. All properties are closer to town centres or occupy premium position and offer high quality service and facilities, many offer swimming pools, gyms and a choice of dining options. Whether based on the Lake in Rotorua; in Cathedral Square in Christchurch or with sweeping views of the mountains and lakes in Queenstown, the hotels will be rich in local flavour.
ULTIMATE SMALL GROUP 4.5 star HOTEL ACCOMMODATION We have carefully handpicked a collection of stylish 4.5 star rated hotels to be part of the Ultimate Small Groups Tours experience. Enjoy a mix of boutique hotels with individual style or a larger hotel where its spirited ambience suits the lively location. Travellers are treated to a premium level of comfort, enjoy extensive guest facilities and thoughtful touches that create an experience. This is illustrated at the Distinction Dunedin Hotel, where the 1930s former Post Office has been transformed into one of the newest luxury hotels with restaurant, bar and onsite gym.
16 Day Ultimate Explorer
s
s
s
sD
sD
sD
sD
s
s
s
s
9 Day Ultimate North Island Escape
19 Day Ultimate Discovery
s
10 Day Ultimate South Island Escape
19 Day Ultimate Rail, Cruise & Coach Experience
ULTIMATE SMALL GROUP 4.5 Star HOTEL ACCOMMODATION
9 Day Northern Spectacular
10 Day South Island Spectacular
19 Day New Zealand Showcase
SIGNATURE COACH 4 Star HOTEL ACCOMMODATION 19 Day New Zealand Rail, Cruise & Coach Holiday
s
8 Day Taste of North Island
s
9 Day Taste of South Island
14 Day New Zealand Panorama Tour
NEW ZEALAND COACH TOUR AND STANDARD OF HOTEL ACCOMMODATION
16 Day Highlights of New Zealand Tour
AFFORDABLE COACH 3.5 Star HOTEL ACCOMMODATION
North Island Rydges Auckland Grand Millennium Hotel Skycity Hotel Auckland Crowne Plaza Auckland Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge Paihia Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua Regent of Rotorua Copthorne Hotel & Resort Solway Park Scenic Hotel Te Pania Ibis Wellington James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor InterContinental Wellington
s s s
s s
s s
s
s
s sS
s sS
s sS
s
s s
s
s
s
s
s LA
s LA
s LA
sD
sD
sD
sD
South Island Scenic Hotel Marlborough Marlborough Vintners Hotel The Quality Hotel Elms Sudima Hotel Christchurch Airport Distinction Christchurch The George Sudima Christchurch City Hotel Heritage Gateway Hotel MacKenzie Country Hotel The Hermitage Hotel Mercure Leisure Lodge Scenic Hotel Dunedin City Scenic Hotel Southern Cross Distinction Dunedin Hotel Distinction Luxmore Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas Milford Mariner Overnight Cruise Fiordland Navigator Overnight Cruise Mercure Queenstown Resort Copthorne Hotel & Resort Lakefront Millennium Hotel Queenstown Heritage Queenstown Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier Te Waonui Forest Retreat Distinction Fox Glacier Heartland Hotel Glacier Country Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
s s s
s
s s s
s s
s s s
s
s s LU
s
s
s s
s
s
s s
s
s
s
s
s
s
s
s
s
s
s s
s
sD
sD
s sS
sS
sS
sD s
s s
s
sL
s
sL
s s s DW
s DW
s
s
s
s
s
s DW s
s s
s s
s
s s
NOTE: Hotels are subject to change. Any replacement hotel will be of the same standard. S = Superior Room, D = Deluxe Room, L = Lakeview Room, DW = Douglas Wing, LA = Lambton Room, LU = Luxe Room includes many added benefits. Star ratings are based on an overall average.
gptnzNOW.com
11
New Zealand
COACH HOLIDAY SPECIALIST
RYDGES AUCKLAND s Centrally located, offers spacious guest rooms which feature free Wi-Fi as well as other modern features and amenities such as mini-bars, safes, irons and ironing boards, coffeemakers and hairdryers. The trademark warm Kiwi hospitality is just an added bonus! A short stroll to the Viaduct Harbour and stunning waterfront features a diverse array of restaurants and bars.
CROWNE PLAZA AUCKLAND s Located in the heart of Auckland’s CBD and entertainment hub, this hotel offers superior comfort, personal service and contemporary style. Only 2 minutes away from the Sky Tower, other attractions, entertainment and dining venues. Features include complimentary access to the 24 hour gym with sauna, high speed broadband and wireless connectivity in all rooms and public areas.
SUDIMA HOTEL LAKE ROTORUA s s The Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua enjoys a location that is second-to-none, set on the shores of beautiful Lake Rotorua. Each of the 248 guest rooms features an en suite bathroom, wireless broadband internet, cable television, and much more. Experience and enjoy the geothermal heated pools and spa complex.
Grand Millennium Hotel s Located in the city centre close to Queen Street and Viaduct Harbour. You’ll appreciate being situated in the very heart of the city with fine dining, shopping and entertainment venues at your doorstep. Take advantage of the hotel facilities during your stay, whether it’s enjoying a swim in the heated indoor pool or savouring a delicious teppanyaki meal at Katsura Japanese Restaurant.
KINGSGATE HOTEL AUTOLODGE PAIHIA s The Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge Paihia is located in the stunningly beautiful Bay of Islands and is 100 metres from Paihia wharf and shopping areas. Enjoy the swimming pool, spa pool, gymnasium or complimentary bicycles in this spectacularly located hotel.
REGENT OF ROTORUA s Rotorua’s newest designer 5 star Boutique Hotel and Spa offering stylish luxury accommodation, all with a touch of glamour. An oasis of understated hip contemporary elegance and comfort amidst the exciting attractions and experiences Rotorua has to offer. An outdoor heated swimming pool, spa treatment area, thermal mineral pool and mini gym make this the perfect Rotorua escape.
SKYCITY HOTEL AUCKLAND s When you stay at the Skycity Hotel you will experience New Zealand’s premier entertainment destination. With over 323 recently refurbished rooms, this modern and spacious hotel allows you to relax in style while enjoying more than 20 restaurants, cafes and bars, a theatre, free live entertainment on selected nights and the iconic Sky Tower - all right at your doorstep.
SCENIC HOTEL BAY OF ISLANDS s s Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands has a sub-tropical resort ambience, with island-influenced architecture, beautifully landscaped grounds and light airy rooms. The entire property has been extensively refurbished and expanded. Enjoy the beautifully presented guest rooms, and quality room amenities in this resort style retreat.
COPTHORNE HOTEL & RESORT SOLWAY PARK s The completion of a $7 million refurbishment has seen this hotel become one of the most luxurious in the region. Nestled in the lush Wairarapa Valley framed by the towering Tararua Ranges, this hotel boasts 102 modern bedrooms, a delightful restaurant, gym and swimming pool.
12
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
SCENIC HOTEL TE PANIA s Styled to complement its remarkable location on the edge of the beautiful Hawke’s Bay, Scenic Hotel Te Pania boasts design awards for its style and offers an unmatched level of service to travellers. A premium waterfront location allows guests to enjoy sweeping views out over the bay. A fresh, contemporary style hotel just a short stroll from Napier’s main art deco style precinct.
INTERCONTINENTAL WELLINGTON s One of the highest rated hotels in New Zealand’s Capital City. Located adjacent to the harbour waterfront, the hotel is within close walking distance to popular attractions. Take a short walk to experience the capital’s history, culture and shopping. Enjoy one of three restaurants and bars, the health and fitness centre, sauna, spa and swimming pool.
QUALITY HOTEL ELMS s The Quality Hotel Elms is surrounded by awardwinning gardens and is ideally situated only 4.5 kilometres from central Christchurch. The hotel provides easy access to Northlands Mall, which offers an abundance of shops. All rooms are bright and spacious, comfortable and well equipped. This property offers an onsite restaurant and bar, exercise room and sauna.
IBIS WELLINGTON s Conveniently located in the centre of Wellington this hotel is a short walk from restaurants, cafes and of course New Zealand’s National Museum, Te Papa. The 200 spacious guestrooms are gracefully appointed and come with all the modern amenities, enabling you to relax and have a blissful sleep after a busy day.
SCENIC HOTEL MARLBOROUGH s Scenic Hotel Marlborough is situated in the Marlborough region of New Zealand. Complete with full leisure facilities including swimming pool, sauna and spa. The well presented rooms with modern decor and quality room amenities certainly contribute to this hotel’s popularity.
SUDIMA HOTEL CHRISTCHURCH AIRPORT s Located just two minutes from Christchurch International Airport this hotel offers the ideal place to rest and rejuvenate. Take a refreshing dip in the outdoor swimming pool. Enjoy a hearty breakfast or a sumptuous dinner in the Lobby Restaurant or relax with your favourite drink in the Lobby Bar.
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor s Located in the heart of the city, experience Wellington’s iconic hotel, James Cook Grand Chancellor. The hotel’s 260 fully equipped rooms will meet your every need and more with high speed internet access Sky TV, in house movies, full minibar and tea / coffee making facilities.
Marlborough Vintners Hotel s Located in the heart of the Marlborough wine country, this 5 star hotel has a well earned reputation for style and sophistication delivered with warm hospitality. The beautifully appointed suites have garden or vineyard views.
DISTINCTION CHRISTCHURCH s Centrally located in the revitalised Cathedral Square and ideally positioned, the hotel boasts 179 elegant, air-conditioned hotel rooms, designed with the latest technology including 55” Smart TVs. Free high speed Wi-Fi will be available to all hotel guests with no time limits or data cap.
gptnzNOW.com
13
New Zealand
COACH HOLIDAY SPECIALIST
THE GEORGE s Voted New Zealand‘s leading boutique hotel four years running. Located in the heart of Christchurch overlooking the picturesque Hagley Park and river Avon and just steps from the cultural precinct and key attractions. Impeccable service in an intimate ambience is guaranteed. The only Christchurch hotel with a one-to-one staff-to-guest ratio.
Mackenzie Country Hotel s The Mackenzie Country Hotel located in the heart of the Aoraki/Mount Cook region is surrounded by the stunning Southern Alps. Featuring natural stonework, the architecture beautifully complements the surrounding landscape. All 108 guest rooms feature their own private balcony.
SCENIC HOTEL DUNEDIN CITY s Located in the heart of the city, just blocks from the Octagon and walking distance of many of the city’s main attractions, great restaurants and shopping centres. Attention is paid to style, quality, convenience and service. This has earned the hotel an impressive 4 star plus Qualmark rating, as well as the Enviro-Silver rating in recognition of their environmental awareness.
Sudima Christchurch City Hotel s Christchurch’s newest five star hotel is just a stone’s throw from beautiful Hagley Park and the Christchurch CBD. An extra level of luxury with self-contained studios are on offer as well as an unparalleled sense of freedom with the convenience of top-notch service, facilities and luxe benefits.
THE HERMITAGE HOTEL s Aoraki / Mt Cook provides the perfect backdrop to your overnight stay at The Hermitage Hotel. Watch Mt Cook change colour at sunset from the privacy of your room. Enjoy some of New Zealand’s finest dining experiences alongside world class activities which include spectacular scenic flights, Big Sky Stargazing, the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, planetarium and 2D and 3D cinema.
Scenic Hotel Southern Cross s Dunedin’s largest and most established hotel. Located in the heart of Dunedin, this hotel has been extensively refurbished and now provides guests with modern style, exquisite quality, convenience and exceptional service. Dating back to 1883, this landmark building now blends Dunedin’s distinctive charm and heritage with modern styles and comforts.
HERITAGE GATEWAY HOTEL s The Heritage Gateway, located 4 hours south of Christchurch is truly the gateway of the South Island. This hotel has a full restaurant and cocktail bar which offer panoramic views of the Southern Alps. Offering 98 comfortably equipped rooms which will ensure a good nights sleep for the travelling days ahead.
MERCURE LEISURE LODGE s Mercure Leisure Lodge is nestled in landscaped gardens, located adjacent to the Dunedin Botanic Gardens. This hotel offers 76 spacious rooms each with an outside patio or balcony. Take in the beautiful garden views while you relax in McGavins Bar for a relaxing pre or post dinner drink.
Distinction Dunedin Hotel s The 1930’s former Chief Post Office has been transformed into Dunedin’s newest luxury hotel. Located in the rejuvenated and vibrant exchange area in the heart of the city, the hotel consists of 121 elegant suites and studio rooms, restaurant, bar and onsite gym.
14
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
DISTINCTION LUXMORE HOTEL s s Distinction Luxmore is nestled on the shores of New Zealand’s second largest lake, Te Anau. Elegance and refinement seamlessly blend with serene surroundings of Lake Te Anau. All the 180 units are fitted out with the latest technology to make your relaxation time more enjoyable.
Copthorne Hotel & Resort Lakefront s Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront sits on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and within walking distance of Queenstown’s central shopping and entertainment area. Nestled within a gardeninspired property, the guest rooms have views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range.
SCENIC HOTEL FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER s Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier makes the most of its alpine location and is moments from one of New Zealand’s most spectacular natural attractions, Franz Josef Glacier. With Hot Pools within walking distance and well presented guest rooms it will ensure a good nights rest and a comfortable stay.
DISTINCTION TE ANAU HOTEL & VILLAS s Located on the Te Anau lake front, only a short stroll from the town centre, this hotel is perfectly situated in this captivating region of Fiordland and offers an extensive range of convenient amenities. 112 rooms are set amongst extensive grounds featuring a swimming pool, sauna and spa pool.
HERITAGE QUEENSTOWN s Located in NZ’s mountain playground, offering vistas of the towering Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu. Rooms are spacious at 40 square meters, feature a large sofa, private balcony and ensuite with separate bath and shower. The restaurant ambiance lends itself to intimate dining and the seasonal menu is dedicated to the freshest local produce.
DISTINCTION FOX GLACIER s Share the rugged elegance of this modern, purpose built, boutique hotel located at Fox Glacier. Nestled beneath the towering Southern Alps on the awesome West Coast of New Zealand, the hotel provides a balance of luxury, privacy and location, while being only a short stroll to the main street. Enjoy the beautifully appointed rooms or relax on the balcony of the upstairs lounge.
MERCURE QUEENSTOWN RESORT s s Mercure Queenstown Resort is located in an alpine paradise, offering panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkable Mountains. Each of the 148 well appointed rooms are stylishly furnished with modern amenities. Facilities include a seasonal swimming pool, spa, sauna and gymnasium.
Te Waonui Forest Retreat s The Te Waonui Forest Retreat offers an exclusive luxury hotel experience on New Zealand’s beautiful West Coast. Located in Franz Josef, this luxurious eco-designed hotel provides outstanding accommodation and hospitality to discerning guests.
HEARTLAND HOTEL GLACIER COUNTRY & HEARTLAND HOTEL FOX GLACIER s Where rustic, rural New Zealand meets friendly service and real Kiwi hospitality. Located within a unique world heritage area, the internationally recognised Westland World Heritage Park encompasses 2.6 million hectares of spectacular wilderness.
gptnzNOW.com
15
New Zealand
COACH HOLIDAY SPECIALIST
Being a New Zealand specialist allows us to build solid relationships with our key suppliers and confirm arrangements EXCLUSIVE to Grand Pacific Tours. A key example of this is on the Milford Sound Cruise where our travellers enjoy reserved seats on the Top Deck for premium viewing.
Added attractions We’ve got it covered
O
n a Grand Pacific Tours coach holiday you will visit a vast range of iconic attractions that are INCLUDED in the itinerary. This covers a selection of experiences from the Hole in the Rock Cruise in the beautiful Bay of Islands to the world-renowned TranzAlpine Rail Journey in the South Island, refer to the table on the page opposite.
16
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
In some locations we have included specialty dining experiences. In Rotorua enjoy the thrill of Maori song and dance followed by a traditional hangi banquet; celebrate Dunedin’s Scottish heritage as you take part in a Haggis Ceremony complete with bagpipes; and whilst in Queenstown board the vintage steamship, the TSS Earnslaw and cruise across to Walter Peak Station to enjoy a gourmet barbecue dinner which includes an extensive range of New Zealand and local produce.
s s s
9 Day Ultimate North Island Escape
16 Day Ultimate Explorer
s s s s
10 Day Ultimate South Island Escape
19 Day Ultimate Discovery
19 Day Ultimate Rail, Cruise & Coach Experience
ULTIMATE SMALL GROUP TOURS
9 Day Northern Spectacular
10 Day South Island Spectacular
19 Day New Zealand Showcase
19 Day New Zealand Rail, Cruise & Coach Holiday
SIGNATURE COACH TOURS
8 Day Taste of North Island
9 Day Taste of South Island
14 Day New Zealand Panorama Tour
NEW ZEALAND COACH TOUR AND RANGE OF ICONIC INCLUDED ATTRACTIONS
16 Day Highlights of New Zealand Tour
AFFORDABLE COACH TOURS
North Island Kauri Museum Waitangi Treaty Grounds Dolphin / Hole in the Rock Cruise Sky Tower Glenbrook Vintage Railway Hobbiton Movie Set Tour & Lunch Paradise Valley Springs Rainbow Springs Kiwi Encounter Skyline Gondola & Luge Agrodome Thermal mud pools & geysers Te Puia Maori Hangi & Concert Maori Hangi & Concert (Hotel) Hawkes Bay Napier Express Wellington Tram Museum Te Papa, National Museum Interislander Ferry
s
s
s
s
s s s
s s s s
s s s s
s
s
s s s
s s s s
s
s
s
s
s
s s s
s s s
s s s
s
s
s
s s s s
s s s s
s s s s
s s s s s s
s s s s
s s s s s s
s s s
s s s
s
s s
s s s
s s s
s s
s s s
s s
s s s s
s s s s
s s s s
s
s
s
South Island Coastal Pacific Rail Journey International Antarctic Centre Christchurch Tram TranzAlpine Rail Journey TSS Earnslaw & Walter Peak Homestead Lakes District Museum Milford Sound Cruise & Lunch Milford Sound Overnight Cruise Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise Haggis Ceremony & Gift Olveston House Larnarch Castle & Devonshire Tea Larnarch Castle & Ultimate High Tea Taieri Gorge Railway Pleasant Point Rail Museum
s s s s
s s s s
s s s s
s s s s s s
s s s s
s s s s
s
s
s
s
s s s s s s
s s s
s
s
s
s
s
s s s s
s s s
Whilst travelling with a group, it is still important that your holiday is a personalised experience. One guide per 24 travellers has been confirmed for any guided tour inclusion.
gptnzNOW.com
17
SMALL GROUP TOURING
ULTIMATE
Embrace “The ‘Business Class’ Ultimate Coach is definitely the way to go. Beautifully appointed, comfortable and luxurious. Won’t be able to travel any other way again.” D. & A. J. - Past Travellers
18
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
5 STAR TREATMENT VIP extras
Full size coach. ONLY 20 leather fully reclining seats
A deluxe Travel Set including travel bag and ticket wallet
Business class on wheels Maximum 20 travellers The beauty of travelling aboard the Ultimate Coach is that it is in a league of its own and not offered by any other operator. Be treated as a VIP and enjoy a number of exclusive extras. Small group travel 4.5 STAR HOTEL accommodation UNPARALLELED COMFORT
Complimentary pre dinner drink at the welcome dinner
Boxed mints and souvenir water bottle
Complimentary daily on board Wi-Fi allowance
B
e dazzled by the purpose-built Ultimate Coach featuring 20 luxury leather seats, panoramic viewing and a level of comfort unparalleled by any other vehicle. The design is state-of-the art and complete with extensive onboard features including the latest finishes and technology.
Access to daily newspaper and a range of glossy magazines
The hotels chosen to be part of the Ultimate Small Group Tours experience are a collection of stylish 4.5 star rated hotels. You will be treated to a very high standard, each of the hotels used offer a premium level of comfort, extensive guest facilities and excellent location. In more remote locations, hotel standards may not be as high due to limited choice. For a full list of Ultimate Coach features, refer to page 6.
Intimate farewell dinner including selected beverages
BONUS Group Photo
gptnzNOW.com
19
The ultimate experience combining rail, coach and Doubtful Sound overnight cruise
Tour code: UGPRC19
19 Day Ultimate Rail, Cruise & Coach Experience NO HIDDEN EXTRAS
Doubtful Sound
Pukerangi
GUARANTEED departures 2019 2020 Sep 7, 21 Jan 6, 11, 26 Oct 10, 12 Feb 10, 17 Nov 14, 20 Mar 8, 15, 28 Dec 18 Apr 15 May 3 SEASONAL OFFER Save $300 per person on highlighted departure dates. FESTIVE SEASON departure $100 per person surcharge applies.
PRE PAID ATTRACTIONS • Kauri Museum* • Waitangi Treaty Grounds* • Dolphin / Hole in the Rock Cruise • Glenbrook Vintage Railway • Rainbow Springs Nature Park* • National Kiwi Hatchery Tour* • Skyline Rotorua Gondola & Luge Ride • Agrodome • Thermal mud pools & geysers* • Te Puia traditional Maori Hangi & Concert • Wellington Tramway Museum • Te Papa, NZ’s National Museum • Cruise on the Interislander Ferry • Coastal Pacific Rail Journey • International Antarctic Centre • Christchurch Tram • TranzAlpine Rail Journey • Lakes District Museum • Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw • HIGHLIGHT Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise • Taieri Gorge Limited Rail Journey • Larnach Castle* • Pleasant Point Rail Museum • City sights tour of Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch & Dunedin *Guided tour.
ULTIMATE SMALL GROUP TOURING Personalised Meet & Greet on arrival • Return airport transfers in New Zealand • Ultimate Small Group Tour Coach with 20 luxury leather reclining seats on a full size vehicle, 2 door access and panoramic windows • Professional Coach Captain • 17 nights 4.5 star hotel accommodation • Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise • 6 two night stays • Hotel porterage • 5 rail journeys • 4 cruises • All sightseeing and pre paid attractions • Comprehensive documentation pack • BONUS Group photo •
MEALS 18 cooked breakfasts including a specialty breakfast: Stratosfare Restaurant, Rotorua • 14 sumptuous dinners including 3 specialty dinners: Maori Hangi & Concert, Rotorua; Walter Peak Homestead, Queenstown; Farewell Dinner, selected beverages, Christchurch • 2 lunches • 2 delicious morning teas including an Ultimate High Tea: Larnach Castle •
Note: Dinner on Day 1 not included for anyone arriving later than 8pm.
ITINERARY ALL INCLUSIVE tour price Includes Ultimate 20 seat coach travel, 4.5 star hotel accommodation, most meals, sightseeing & attractions. Land only prices
NZ$
Twin share, per person Single supplement
$10,999 $3550
Stay a little longer City Twin share Single Auckland $175 $350 Christchurch $230 $460 Extra night rates are per person and based on room only. Subject to availability.
(B) Breakfast. (L) Lunch. (D) Dinner. (SD) Specialty Dinner.
DAY 1: Arrive Auckland (D) On arrival into Auckland you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative who will transfer you to your hotel. Meet your travelling companions over a complimentary pre dinner drink. Hotel Crowne Plaza Auckland DAY 2: Auckland - Bay of Islands (B,D) Board the luxurious Ultimate Coach and 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 beautiful Bay of Islands. Enjoy a guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the location of the signing of the treaty between the Maori tribes and the British. Hotel Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands (Deluxe Room. 2 nights) DAY 3: Bay of Islands (Free Day) (B) 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 and you may like to enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise (optional).
The Haka, a traditional Maori war cry, dance or challenge.
20
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
DAY 4: Bay of Islands - Auckland (B,D) This morning travel aboard a luxury catamaran to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. Keep an eye out for bottlenose and common dolphins
before returning to Paihia. Travel south, call into the Parry Kauri Park to see a magnificent example of a Kauri Tree before arriving in Auckland. Hotel Crowne Plaza Auckland DAY 5: Auckland - Rotorua (B,D) This morning travel to Glenbrook Vintage Railway for a nostalgic 15 kilometre trip back in time on a beautifully restored vintage steam train. Visit the restoration workshop and on return to Glenbrook Station, morning tea will be served. Travel through magnificent countryside of green pastures famous for dairying. Continue to the Rainbow Springs Nature Park, home to the world’s largest kiwi hatchery for a unique behind-the-scenes tour where over 1800 kiwi chicks have been hatched to date. Hotel Regent of Rotorua (2 nights) or similar DAY 6: Rotorua (B,SD) Today begins with a gondola ride at the Skyline Rotorua where a buffet breakfast and spectacular views are on offer. There is also time for a thrilling luge ride! Next stop is Agrodome for an action packed hour of farming entertainment and education that’s 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 Maori Hangi and Concert.
DAY 7: Rotorua - Wellington (B,D) Travel along the Thermal Explorer Highway to the spectacular Huka Falls and lakeside town of Taupo. Travel via the Tongariro National Park to the Wellington Tramway Museum to view a display of tramway history and enjoy a nostalgic trip on one of the original trams that served Wellington city. Hotel InterContinental Wellington (Deluxe Room. 2 nights)
DAY 13: Queenstown (Free Day) (B,SD) Today is a free day for you to explore Queenstown with many options available. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back, relax and enjoy a gourmet barbecue dinner at the Colonel’s Homestead. After dinner enjoy a short farm tour then reboard the TSS Earnslaw for a sing along by the piano on your return cruise.
DAY 8: Wellington (B) A highlight this morning will be time to explore Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum with exhibits that embrace both Maori and European views. 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 at leisure.
DAY 14: Queenstown - Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise (B,L,D) Today travel via Te Anau to Manapouri. Enjoy a picnic lunch as you cruise across this glacial lake. A short ride over the Wilmot Pass brings you to the boarding point to join the Fiordland Navigator for an amazing overnight experience. As you cruise through the pristine beauty of Doubtful Sound, naturalist guides will provide commentary and point out the resident wildlife. When evening falls enjoy a delicious carvery buffet prepared freshly by the onboard chef. Overnight Fiordland Navigator
DAY 9: Wellington - Kaikoura - Christchurch (B,D) This morning board the Interislander Ferry, cross the Cook Strait and 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 Kaikoura Ranges. Meet your Ultimate Coach in the fishing village of Kaikoura for the journey to the garden city of Christchurch. Hotel The George (2 nights) DAY 10: Christchurch (B) 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 your leisure. This evening is also free to enjoy one of the many eateries near your hotel. DAY 11: Christchurch - Arthur’s Pass - Fox Glacier (B,D) 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 Ultimate Coach and travel to Hokitika, famous for its Greenstone before continuing via Franz Josef to the township of Fox Glacier where time is available to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the spectacular glaciers. Hotel Distinction Fox Glacier DAY 12: Fox Glacier - Queenstown (B) See the snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel south along the West Coast. Continue via the Haast Pass, an area of stunning beauty before arriving into Arrowtown to visit the Lakes District Museum. Continue to picturesque Queenstown, a year round resort situated on the shores of magical Lake Wakatipu. This evening is free and you may choose to dine out at one of the many fine restaurants. Hotel Heritage Queenstown (2 nights) or similar
DAY 15: Doubtful Sound - Te Anau (B,D) Start the day with a hearty breakfast before heading back to Deep Cove for the trip back to Manapouri. Return to the wharf and meet your Ultimate Coach for the journey to Te Anau where you will enjoy an afternoon at leisure. You may like to visit the Te Anau Glow Worm Caves (optional). Hotel Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas
>> TOUR HIGH LIGHT
Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise
Escape to the peace & tranquillity of Doubtful Sound for an overnight cruise on the Fiordland Navigator. Your overnight experience includes: • Cruise on a traditionally designed vessel • Cabins with private ensuite • Superb evening carvery buffet prepared freshly by an onboard chef • Cooked breakfast • Tender craft and kayaking activities • Knowledgeable nature guide • Relaxation time allowing you to view the fiords spectacular waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife
DAY 16: Te Anau - Dunedin (B,D) Travel via Gore and Balclutha to Pukerangi to board The Taieri Gorge Limited for a journey through spectacular scenery only accessible by rail. On the return to Dunedin’s historic Edwardian Railway Station your coach will transfer you to the hotel. Hotel Distinction Dunedin (2 nights) DAY 17: Dunedin (B,D) Travel along the Otago Peninsula to Larnach Castle, hear the tragic and scandalous stories on a guided tour with time to wander around this Garden of International Significance followed by an Ultimate High Tea served in the Grand Ballroom. Return to the city for an informative city tour followed by some free time. You might be interested in a tour of Speights Brewery (optional) or the chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat (optional). DAY 18: Dunedin - Christchurch (B,L,SD) This morning travel to the city of Oamaru, famous for its limestone. Continue north to Pleasant Point Museum & Railway for a short rail experience followed by lunch and time to explore the preserved heritage of the South Canterbury railway. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner with selected beverages and your new friends. Hotel The George DAY 19: Depart Christchurch (B) Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.
See spectacular scenery on the Taieri Gorge Limited Rail Journey.
>> DEPARTS 18 DEC 2019
FESTIVE SEASON departure Witness the spectacular scenery of New Zealand during the Festive Season. On Christmas Day enjoy a sumptuous dinner with all the trimmings in New Zealand’s capital, Wellington. Celebrate an unforgettable New Year’s Eve on your overnight cruise through the pristine beauty of Doubtful Sound. See in the New Year with new friends creating lifelong memories.
gptnzNOW.com
21
Discover the best of New Zealand’s iconic regions and attractions in a small group
Tour code: UGPDY19
19 Day Ultimate Discovery NO HIDDEN EXTRAS PRE PAID ATTRACTIONS • Kauri Museum* • Waitangi Treaty Grounds* • Dolphin / Hole in the Rock Cruise • Sky Tower • Hobbiton Movie Set Tour & Lunch • Skyline Rotorua Gondola & Luge Ride • Agrodome • Thermal mud pools & geysers* • Te Puia traditional Maori Hangi & Concert • Hawke’s Bay Express Napier • Te Papa, NZ’s National Museum • Cruise on the Interislander Ferry • TranzAlpine Rail Journey • Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw • Lakes District Museum • Milford Sound Nature Cruise & Lunch • Larnach Castle* • City sights tour of Auckland, Napier, Wellington, Christchurch & Dunedin
GUARANTEED departures 2019 2020 Sep 11, 26 Jan 28 Nov 1, 16 Feb 8 Mar 1 Apr 22
*Guided tour.
SEASONAL OFFER Save $300 per person on highlighted departure dates. ALL INCLUSIVE tour price Includes Ultimate 20 seat coach travel, 4.5 star hotel accommodation, most meals, sightseeing & attractions. NZ$
Twin share, per person Single supplement
$10,099 $3100
Stay a little longer City Twin share Single Auckland $175 $350 Christchurch $230 $460 Extra night rates are per person and based on room only. Subject to availability.
ITINERARY (B) Breakfast. (L) Lunch. (D) Dinner. (SD) Specialty Dinner.
DAY 1: Arrive Auckland (D) On arrival into Auckland you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative who will transfer you to your hotel. Meet your travelling companions over a complimentary pre dinner drink. Hotel Crowne Plaza Auckland DAY 2: Auckland - Bay of Islands (B,D) Board the luxurious Ultimate Coach, depart Auckland and travel to the Parry Kauri Park to see a magnificent example of a Kauri Tree. Enjoy a visit and informative talk at the Kauri Museum in Matakohe, then 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 Maori tribes and the British. Hotel Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands (Deluxe Room. 2 nights) DAY 3: Bay of Islands (Free Day) (B) 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 and you may like to enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise (optional).
The magnificent Fox Glacier at just over 13 kilometres in length.
22
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
MEALS 18 cooked breakfasts including a specialty breakfast: Stratosfare Restaurant, Rotorua • 15 sumptuous dinners including 3 specialty dinners: Maori Hangi & Concert, Rotorua; Walter Peak Homestead, Queenstown; Farewell Dinner, selected beverages, Christchurch • Marlborough wine with dinner in Blenheim • 2 lunches including a Shire’s buffet lunch: Hobbiton • 1 Ultimate High Tea: Larnach Castle •
Note: Dinner on Day 1 not included for anyone arriving later than 8pm.
>> ITINERARY Land only prices
ULTIMATE SMALL GROUP TOURING Personalised Meet & Greet on arrival • Return airport transfers in New Zealand • Ultimate Small Group Tour Coach with 20 luxury leather reclining seats on a full size vehicle, 2 door access and panoramic windows • Professional Coach Captain • 18 nights 4.5 star hotel accommodation • 4 two night stays • Hotel porterage • 4 cruises • All sightseeing and pre paid attractions • Comprehensive documentation pack • BONUS Group photo •
DAY 4: Bay of Islands - Auckland (B,D) This morning travel aboard a luxury catamaran to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. Keep an eye out for bottlenose and common dolphins before returning to Paihia. Travel south via Whangarei to Auckland. Hotel Crowne Plaza Auckland DAY 5: Auckland - Rotorua (B,L,D) This morning enjoy a city sights tour including a visit to Sky Tower, one of New Zealand’s most spectacular attractions. Continue through the picturesque countryside to Hobbiton for a buffet lunch. This is followed by a guided tour of the Movie Set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Your guide will recount details of how this beautiful piece of farmland was transformed into The Shire from Middle-earth. Hotel Regent of Rotorua (2 nights) DAY 6: Rotorua (B,SD) Today begins with a gondola ride at the Skyline Rotorua for breakfast and spectacular views and time for a thrilling luge ride! Next stop is Agrodome for an action packed hour of farming entertainment and education that’s 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 Maori Hangi and Concert.
DAY 7: Rotorua - Napier (B,D) Depart Rotorua and travel along the Thermal Explorer Highway to Huka Falls and Lake Taupo. Continue to Napier known as ‘The Art Deco Capital’, where a city tour will showcase the most comprehensive collection of art deco buildings in the world. Board the Hawke’s Bay Express and hear informative commentary on the city’s fascinating history. Enjoy some free time this afternoon to explore the city or you might choose to do a guided walk (optional). Hotel Scenic Hotel Te Pania DAY 8: Napier - Wellington (B,D) Travel south this morning into Wellington for a city tour of the nation’s capital which will highlight the history and culture on show here. Hotel InterContinental Wellington (Deluxe Room)
>> TOUR HIGH LIGHT
CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Explore Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum; discover all the magic of the Hobbiton Movie Set Tour; join the Hawke’s Bay Express for a stylishly memorable experience of New Zealand’s Art Deco capital.
DAY 9: Wellington - Picton - Blenheim (B,D) A highlight this morning will be time to explore Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum with exhibits that embrace both Maori and European views. This afternoon board the Interislander Ferry and enjoy the scenery as you travel through the Marlborough Sounds to Picton where you board your Ultimate Coach for the short journey to Blenheim. This evening at dinner sample some of the local wines from the Marlborough region. Hotel Marlborough Vintners Hotel DAY 10: Blenheim - Kaikoura - Christchurch (B) Tour through Marlborough Country, famous for its food and wine, then travel to the seaside village of Kaikoura. Continue onto the garden city of Christchurch. Hotel The George DAY 11: Christchurch - Arthur’s Pass - Fox Glacier (B,D) 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 Ultimate coach and travel to Hokitika, famous for its Greenstone before continuing via Franz Josef to the township of Fox Glacier where time is available to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the spectacular glaciers. Hotel Distinction Fox Glacier DAY 12: Fox Glacier - Queenstown (B) See the snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel south along the West Coast. Continue 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 and you may choose to dine out at one of the many fine restaurants. Hotel Heritage Queenstown (2 nights)
DAY 13: Queenstown (Free Day) (B,SD) Today is a free day and there are plenty of sightseeing options available. You may wish to enjoy the thrill of a jet boat ride, a heritage tour of the scenic Skippers Canyon or get up close to a Kiwi bird. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back, relax and enjoy a gourmet barbecue dinner which the chef will prepare in front of you 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. DAY 14: Queenstown - Te Anau (B,D) Enjoy a leisurely start this morning before travelling to Arrowtown, an old gold mining village where you visit the Lakes District Museum. Continue to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland. Today you may like to visit the Te Anau Glow Worm Caves (optional). Hotel Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas (2 nights) DAY 15: Te Anau - Milford Sound - Te Anau (B,L,D) Depart Te Anau for a fascinating drive to Milford Sound where you board your launch for a nature cruise on this magnificent fiord. See the spectacular Bowen Falls and towering Mitre Peak as you enjoy a picnic lunch onboard. This afternoon return to Te Anau where some free time is available. You might like to cap off your Fiordland experience by watching the breathtaking film, Ata Whenua - Shadowland, which screens at the Fiordland Cinema (optional).
DAY 16: Te Anau - Dunedin (B,D) Travel via Gore and Balclutha to Dunedin known as the “Edinburgh of the South”. Enjoy an informative city tour followed by some free time at leisure. Hotel Distinction Dunedin DAY 17: Dunedin - Mt Cook (B,D) Travel along the Otago Peninsula to Larnach Castle, hear the tragic and scandalous stories on a guided tour with time to wander around this Garden of International Significance followed by an Ultimate High Tea served in the Grand Ballroom. Farewell Dunedin and travel to Oamaru famous for its limestone. Follow the Waitaki River and see Lake Benmore as you travel to Mt Cook. Hotel The Hermitage Hotel (Aoraki Wing) DAY 18: Mt Cook - Christchurch (B,SD) This morning marvel at Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. The opportunity is available to enjoy a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the Southern Alps. Continue to Lake Tekapo and view the brilliant turquoise water, visit the Church of the Good Shepherd and see the Sheep Dog Statue before arriving into Christchurch. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner including selected beverages with your new found friends. Hotel The George DAY 19: Depart Christchurch (B) Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.
gptnzNOW.com
23
Explore the majestic South Island and diverse North Island in ultimate style
Tour code: UGPEX16
16 Day Ultimate Explorer NO HIDDEN EXTRAS PRE PAID ATTRACTIONS • Larnach Castle* • Milford Sound Nature Cruise & Lunch • Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw • Lakes District Museum • TranzAlpine Rail Journey • Cruise on the Interislander Ferry • Te Papa, NZ’s National Museum • Skyline Rotorua Gondola & Luge Ride • Agrodome • Rainbow Springs Nature Park* • National Kiwi Hatchery Tour* • Thermal mud pools & geysers* • Te Puia Traditional Maori Hangi & Concert • Waitangi Treaty Grounds* • Dolphin / Hole in the Rock Cruise • Kauri Museum* • City sights tour of Christchurch, Dunedin, Wellington & Auckland
GUARANTEED departures 2019 2020 Sep 27 Jan 11, 26 Oct 13, 28 Feb 13 Nov 12 Mar 1, 10, 29 Dec 5 May 6
*Guided tour.
SEASONAL OFFER Save $300 per person on highlighted departure dates. ALL INCLUSIVE tour price Includes Ultimate 20 seat coach travel, 4.5 star hotel accommodation, most meals, sightseeing & attractions. Land only prices
NZ$
Twin share, per person Single supplement
$8819 $2710
Stay a little longer City Twin share Single Christchurch $230 $460 Auckland $175 $350 Extra night rates are per person and based on room only. Subject to availability.
View Aoraki / Mt Cook, NZ’s highest peak from the Hermitage Hotel.
24
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
ULTIMATE SMALL GROUP TOURING Personalised Meet & Greet on arrival • Return airport transfers in New Zealand • Ultimate Small Group Tour Coach with 20 luxury leather reclining seats on a full size vehicle, 2 door access and panoramic windows • Professional Coach Captain • 15 nights 4.5 star hotel accommodation • 4 two night stays • Hotel porterage • 4 cruises • All sightseeing and pre paid attractions • Comprehensive documentation pack • BONUS Group photo •
MEALS 15 cooked breakfasts including a specialty breakfast: Stratosfare Restaurant, Rotorua • 12 sumptuous dinners including 3 specialty dinners: Walter Peak Homestead, Queenstown; Maori Hangi & Concert, Rotorua; Farewell Dinner, selected beverages, Auckland • 1 picnic lunch: Milford Sound Cruise • 1 Ultimate High Tea: Larnach Castle •
Note: Dinner on Day 1 not included for anyone arriving later than 8pm.
ITINERARY (B) Breakfast. (L) Lunch. (D) Dinner. (SD) Specialty Dinner.
DAY 1: Arrive Christchurch (D) On arrival into Christchurch you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative who will transfer you to your hotel. Meet your travelling companions over a complimentary pre dinner drink. Hotel The George DAY 2: Christchurch - Mt Cook (B,D) After an introductory city sights tour depart Christchurch and travel through the southern Canterbury Plains to Lake Tekapo. See the brilliant turquoise water, visit The Church of the Good Shepherd and view 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. Hotel The Hermitage Hotel (Aoraki Wing) DAY 3: Mt Cook - Dunedin (B,D) Depart Mt Cook and see Lake Benmore, before following the Waitaki River to Oamaru, famous for its limestone. Continue south to Dunedin and enjoy an informative city tour followed by some free time to explore at leisure. You might be interested in a tour of the Speight’s Brewery (optional) or the chance to see local wildlife in their natural habitat (optional). Hotel Distinction Dunedin
DAY 4: Dunedin - Te Anau (B,D) 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 the Fiordland and your overnight stay. Today you may like to visit the Te Anau Glow Worm Caves (optional). Hotel Distinction Te Anau Hotel and Villas DAY 5: Te Anau - Milford Sound - Queenstown (B,L) Depart Te Anau for a fascinating drive to Milford Sound where you board your launch for a nature cruise on this magnificent fiord. See the spectacular Bowen Falls and towering Mitre Peak as you enjoy a picnic 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 free and you may choose to dine at one of the many fine restaurants. Hotel Millennium Hotel Queenstown (2 nights)
>> TOUR HIGH LIGHT
CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT: Cruise aboard the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak; Agrodome, an educational hands on experience; the patchwork plains of the Canterbury region; Waitangi Treaty Grounds.
MUST DO OPTION Unforgettable Skippers Canyon Take an excursion into Queenstown’s backcountry to the historic Skippers Canyon. Your guide will recount the history of the goldmining era as well as show you dramatic landscapes only accessible by 4WD.
DAY 6: Queenstown (Free Day) (B,SD) Today is a free day for you to explore Queenstown at leisure. There are many sightseeing options available including the thrill of a jet boat ride, a heritage tour to Skippers Canyon or get up close to a Kiwi bird. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back, relax and enjoy a gourmet barbecue dinner which the chef will prepare in front of you 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. DAY 7: Queenstown - Fox Glacier (B,D) 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. Time is available (weather permitting) to experience a scenic flight (optional) over the spectacular glaciers before arriving at your hotel. Hotel Distinction Fox Glacier DAY 8: Fox Glacier - Arthur’s Pass - Christchurch (B,D) 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 to the elegant city of Christchurch. On arrival your Ultimate Coach will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. Hotel The George
DAY 9: Christchurch - Picton - Wellington (B,D) Travel along the East Coast to the seaside village of Kaikoura. 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 for your journey through the Marlborough Sounds and across Cook Strait to Wellington. Hotel InterContinental Wellington (Deluxe Room. 2 nights) DAY 10: Wellington (B) A highlight this morning will be time to explore Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum with exhibits that embrace both Maori and European views. Reboard your coach for a city tour. Enjoy free time this afternoon and this evening is also free to choose your own dining arrangements. DAY 11: Wellington - Taupo - Rotorua (B,D) Depart Wellington and view the snow capped 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. Hotel Regent of Rotorua or similar (2 nights) DAY 12: Rotorua (B,SD) Today begins with a gondola ride at the Skyline Rotorua for breakfast, with spectacular views and time for a thrilling luge ride! Next stop is the Agrodome for an action packed hour of farming entertainment and education that’s unlike anything you’ve seen before. Continue to the Rainbow Springs Nature Park, home to the world’s largest kiwi hatchery for a unique behind-the-scenes tour where over 1800 kiwi chicks have been hatched to date. Some free time is available before travelling to Te Puia to see the boiling mud pools and
awesome geysers that Rotorua is famous for. This evening experience an entertaining Maori Hangi and Concert. DAY 13: Rotorua - Auckland - Bay of Islands (B,D) This morning depart Rotorua and travel north via Auckland to the Parry Kauri Park to see a magnificent example of a Kauri Tree. Continue 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 Maori tribes and the British. Hotel Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands (Deluxe Room. 2 nights) DAY 14: Bay of Islands (B) This morning cruise through the beautiful Bay of Islands on board a luxury catamaran to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. Keep an eye out for bottlenose and common dolphins before returning to Paihia for a free afternoon. 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 free and you may like to enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise (optional). DAY 15: Bay of Islands - Auckland (B,SD) 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 new found friends. Hotel Crowne Plaza Auckland DAY 16: Depart Auckland (B) Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.
gptnzNOW.com
25
Enjoy an Ultimate escape to New Zealand’s dramatic South Island
Tour code: UGPSI10
10 Day Ultimate South Island Escape NO HIDDEN EXTRAS PRE PAID ATTRACTIONS • TranzAlpine Rail Journey • Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw • Lakes District Museum • Milford Sound Nature Cruise & Lunch • Larnach Castle* • City sights tour of Christchurch & Dunedin *Guided tour.
ULTIMATE SMALL GROUP TOURING Personalised Meet & Greet on arrival • Return airport transfers in New Zealand • Ultimate Small Group Tour Coach with 20 luxury leather reclining seats on a full size vehicle, 2 door access and panoramic windows • Professional Coach Captain • 9 nights 4.5 star hotel accommodation • 2 two night stays • Hotel porterage • 2 cruises • All sightseeing and pre paid attractions • Comprehensive documentation pack • BONUS Group photo •
GUARANTEED departures 2019 2020 Sep 1, 10 Jan 17 Oct 2, 16 Mar 1, 19 Nov 1 May 6 Dec 9 SEASONAL OFFER Save $200 per person on highlighted departure dates. ALL INCLUSIVE tour price Includes Ultimate 20 seat coach travel, 4.5 star hotel accommodation, most meals, sightseeing & attractions. Land only prices
NZ$
Twin share, per person Single supplement
$5929 $1970
Stay a little longer City Twin share Single Christchurch $270 $540 Extra night rates are per person and include full breakfast and other luxe benefits. Subject to availability.
The TranzAlpine, one of the great train journey’s of the world.
26
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
MEALS 9 cooked breakfasts • 8 sumptuous dinners including 2 specialty dinners: Walter Peak Homestead, Queenstown; Farewell Dinner, selected beverages, Christchurch • 1 picnic lunch • 1 Ultimate High Tea: Larnach Castle •
Note: Dinner on Day 1 not included for anyone arriving later than 8pm.
ITINERARY (B) Breakfast. (L) Lunch. (D) Dinner. (SD) Specialty Dinner.
DAY 1: Arrive Christchurch (D) On arrival into Christchurch you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative who will transfer you to your hotel. Enjoy luxe benefits and a complimentary pre dinner drink as you meet your travelling companions. Hotel Sudima Christchurch City DAY 2: Christchurch - Arthur’s Pass - Franz Josef (B,D) 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 Ultimate coach and travel to Hokitika, famous for its Greenstone before continuing to the township of Franz Josef where time is available to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the spectacular glaciers. Hotel Te Waonui Forest Retreat DAY 3: Franz Josef - Queenstown (B) See the snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel south along the West Coast. Continue 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 and you may choose to dine out at one of the many fine restaurants. Hotel Heritage Queenstown (2 nights)
DAY 4: Queenstown (Free Day) (B,SD) Today is a free day with plenty of sightseeing options to choose from. You may wish to enjoy the thrill of a jet boat ride, a heritage tour of the scenic Skippers Canyon or get up close to a Kiwi bird. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back, relax and enjoy a gourmet barbecue dinner which the chef will prepare in front of you 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 your cruise back to Queenstown. DAY 5: Queenstown - Te Anau (B,D) Enjoy a leisurely start this morning before travelling to Arrowtown, an old gold mining village where you visit the Lakes District Museum. This innovative museum is heavily involved in the protection of the historic buildings scattered around town. Continue to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland. Today you may like to visit the Te Anau Glow Worm Caves (optional). Hotel Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas (2 nights) DAY 6: Te Anau - Milford Sound - Te Anau (B,L,D) Depart Te Anau for a fascinating drive to Milford Sound where you board your launch for a nature cruise on this magnificent fiord. See the spectacular Bowen Falls and towering Mitre Peak as you enjoy a picnic lunch onboard. This afternoon return to Te Anau where some free time
>> ICONIC ATTRACTION
is available. You may like to visit the Fiordland Cinema, specially constructed to screen the locally filmed movie Ata Whenua - Shadowland which will take you on an unforgettable journey (optional). DAY 7: Te Anau - Dunedin (B,D) Travel via Gore and Balclutha to Dunedin known as the ‘Edinburgh of the South’. Enjoy an informative city tour followed by some free time to explore at leisure. Options available include a tour of the Speight’s Brewery, which produces New Zealand’s most popular beer, see Albatross in their natural habitat or take a tour of Olveston Historic Home, containing many treasures of a bygone era. Hotel Distinction Dunedin DAY 8: Dunedin - Mt Cook (B,D) Travel along the Otago Peninsula to Larnach Castle, hear the tragic and scandalous stories on a guided tour. There is time to wander around this Garden of International Significance followed by an Ultimate High Tea served in the Grand Ballroom. Farewell Dunedin and travel to Oamaru famous for its limestone. Follow the Waitaki River and see Lake Benmore as you travel to Mt Cook. Hotel The Hermitage Hotel (Aoraki Wing)
MUST DO OPTIONZ
Awesome Tours Wildlife Tour From Dunedin travel to the beautiful Otago Peninsula where a variety of wildlife can be viewed in their natural habitat. Look out for NZ Fur Seals, Sea Lions, Little Blue and Yellow-Eyed Penguins and if you are lucky a Royal Albatross.
DART RIVER WILDERNESS JET Experience a spectacular journey into the heart of the Mt Aspiring National Park. Combine wilderness jet boating, a guided walk and backcountry tour by 4WD bus and take in the breathtaking scenery.
DAY 9: Mt Cook - Christchurch (B,SD) This morning marvel at Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. The opportunity is available to enjoy a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the Southern Alps. Continue to Lake Tekapo and view the brilliant turquoise water, visit the Church of the Good Shepherd and see the Sheep Dog Statue before arriving into Christchurch for an introductory city sights tour. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner including selected beverages with your new found friends. Hotel Sudima Christchurch City DAY 10: Depart Christchurch (B) Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The Milford Sound Cruise continues to be the highest rated South Island attraction by our travellers; relax in the luxury, leather reclining seat as you take in the stunning scenery; Queenstown, situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu; Christchurch the gateway to the South Island.
gptnzNOW.com
27
An unforgettable ultimate experience of New Zealand’s cultural North Island
Tour code: UGPNI9
9 Day Ultimate North Island Escape NO HIDDEN EXTRAS PRE PAID ATTRACTIONS • Kauri Museum* • Waitangi Treaty Grounds* • Dolphin / Hole in the Rock Cruise • Sky Tower • Hobbiton Movie Set Tour & Lunch • Skyline Rotorua Gondola & Luge Ride • Agrodome • Thermal mud pools & geysers* • Te Puia traditional Maori Hangi & Concert • Hawke’s Bay Express Napier • City sights tour of Auckland, Napier & Wellington *Guided tour.
ULTIMATE SMALL GROUP TOURING Personalised Meet & Greet on arrival • Return airport transfers in New Zealand • Ultimate Small Group Tour Coach with 20 luxury leather reclining seats on a full size vehicle, 2 door access and panoramic windows •
GUARANTEED departures 2019 2020 Sep 1 Jan 2, 30 Dec 9 Apr 18 May 16
(B) Breakfast. (L) Lunch. (D) Dinner. (SD) Specialty Dinner.
ALL INCLUSIVE tour price Includes Ultimate 20 seat coach travel, 4.5 star hotel accommodation, most meals, sightseeing & attractions.
DAY 1: Arrive Auckland (D) On arrival into Auckland you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative who will transfer you to your hotel. Meet your travelling companions over a complimentary pre dinner drink. Hotel Crowne Plaza Auckland
NZ$
Twin share, per person Single supplement
$5169 $1580
Stay a little longer City Twin share Single Auckland $175 $350 Wellington $175 $350 Extra night rates are per person and based on room only. Subject to availability.
DAY 2: Auckland - Bay of Islands (B,D) Board the luxurious Ultimate Coach, travel to the Parry Kauri Park to see a magnificent example of a Kauri Tree. Enjoy a visit at the Kauri Museum in Matakohe, then travel 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 Maori tribes and the British. Hotel Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands (Deluxe Room. 2 nights) DAY 3: Bay of Islands (Free Day) (B) Today is a free day to choose from the many optional activities available including an evening dinner cruise (optional). DAY 4: Bay of Islands - Auckland (B,D) This morning travel aboard a luxury catamaran to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. Keep an eye out for bottlenose and common dolphins before returning to Paihia. Travel south via Whangarei to Auckland. Hotel Crowne Plaza Auckland DAY 5: Auckland - Rotorua (B,L,D) Enjoy a city sights tour including a visit to Sky Tower. Continue through the picturesque
In Rotorua you will see awesome geysers at Te Puia.
28
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
•
MEALS 8 cooked breakfasts including a specialty breakfast: Stratosfare Restaurant, Rotorua • 7 sumptuous dinners including 2 specialty dinners: Maori Hangi & Concert, Rotorua; Farewell Dinner, selected beverages, Wellington • 1 Shire’s buffet lunch: Hobbiton •
Note: Dinner on Day 1 not included for anyone arriving later than 8pm.
ITINERARY
SEASONAL OFFER Save $200 per person on highlighted departure dates.
Land only prices
Professional Coach Captain 8 nights 4.5 star hotel accommodation • 2 two night stays • Hotel porterage • 1 cruise • All sightseeing and pre paid attractions • Comprehensive documentation pack • BONUS Group photo •
countryside to Hobbiton for a buffet lunch followed by a guided tour of the Movie Set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Hotel Regent of Rotorua (2 nights) DAY 6: Rotorua (B,SD) Today begins with a gondola ride at the Skyline Rotorua for breakfast, spectacular views and time for a thrilling luge ride! Next stop is the Agrodome for an action-packed hour of farming entertainment. 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. Experience an entertaining Maori cultural performance followed by a Hangi feast prepared in the traditional way, over hot coals and buried in the ground. DAY 7: Rotorua - Napier (B,D) Travel along the Thermal Explorer Highway to Huka Falls and Lake Taupo. Continue to Napier known as ‘The Art Deco Capital’. Board the Hawke’s Bay Express, where you will journey in style and hear informative commentary on the city’s fascinating history. Enjoy free time this afternoon. Hotel Scenic Hotel Te Pania DAY 8: Napier - Wellington (B,SD) Travel south this morning into Wellington for a city tour of the nation’s capital which will highlight the history and culture on show here. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner including selected beverages with your new found friends. Hotel InterContinental Wellington (Deluxe Room) DAY 9: Depart Wellington (B) Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.
Visit the South Island in ultimate style with line-minded travellers
Tour code: UGPSO11
11 Day Ultimate SOLO Travellers Tour NO HIDDEN EXTRAS PRE PAID ATTRACTIONS • International Antarctic Centre • TranzAlpine Rail Journey • Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw • Lakes District Museum • Milford Sound Nature Cruise & Lunch • Larnach Castle* • City sights tour of Christchurch & Dunedin *Guided tour.
ULTIMATE SMALL GROUP TOURING Personalised Meet & Greet on arrival • Return airport transfers in New Zealand • Ultimate Small Group Tour Coach with 20 luxury leather reclining seats on a full size vehicle, 2 door access and panoramic windows • Professional Coach Captain •
GUARANTEED departure 2020 Jan 7
•
MEALS 10 cooked breakfasts • 8 sumptuous dinners including 2 specialty dinners: Walter Peak Homestead, Queenstown; Farewell Dinner, selected beverages, Christchurch • 1 Ultimate High Tea: Larnach Castle •
Note: Dinner on Day 1 not included for anyone arriving later than 8pm.
ITINERARY
ALL INCLUSIVE tour price GUARANTEED SINGLE ROOM Includes Ultimate 20 seat coach travel, 4.5 star hotel accommodation, most meals, sightseeing & attractions. Land only prices
NZ$
GUARANTEED Single Room
$8929
Stay a little longer City Single Christchurch $540 Extra night rates are per person and include full breakfast and other luxe benefits. Subject to availability.
>> MORE SOLO OPTIONZ
10 nights 4.5 star hotel accommodation 3 two night stays • Hotel porterage • 2 cruises • All sightseeing and pre paid attractions • Comprehensive documentation pack • BONUS Group photo •
Calling SOLO Travellers Visit the icons of the Nth and Sth Islands on the 16 Day SOLO Tour. Refer to pages 60 - 61 for full itinerary. Social Network Connect via Facebook with your fellow travellers. Receive your invitation at time of booking.
(B) Breakfast. (L) Lunch. (D) Dinner. (SD) Specialty Dinner.
DAY 1: Arrive Christchurch (D) On arrival into Christchurch you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative who will transfer you to your hotel. Enjoy luxe benefits and a complimentary pre dinner drink as you meet your travelling companions. Hotel Sudima Christchurch City (2 nights) DAY 2: Christchurch (B) Visit the International Antarctic Centre for an interactive experience of Antarctica, followed by a city tour of Christchurch and free time at leisure. DAY 3: Christchurch - Arthur’s Pass - Franz Josef (B,D) Board the TranzAlpine, travel through spectacular gorges to Arthur’s Pass. Board your Ultimate coach and travel to Hokitika, before continuing to Franz Josef where time is available to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the spectacular glaciers. Hotel Te Waonui Forest Retreat DAY 4: Franz Josef - Queenstown (B) See the snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel south along the West Coast and the Haast Pass. Arrive into picturesque Queenstown where this evening is free to dine at leisure. Hotel Millennium Queenstown (2 nights) DAY 5: Queenstown (Free Day) (B,SD) Today is a free day for optional sightseeing. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Enjoy a gourmet barbecue dinner at the Colonel’s Homestead followed by a short farm tour and a sing along by the piano as your cruise back to Queenstown.
Travel with like-minded individuals and make new friends.
DAY 6: Queenstown - Te Anau (B,D) Travel to Arrowtown to visit the Lakes District Museum. Continue to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland. Hotel Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas (2 nights) DAY 7: Te Anau - Milford Sound - Te Anau (B,L,D) Enjoy a fascinating drive to Milford Sound for a nature cruise on this magnificent fiord. See the spectacular Bowen Falls and towering Mitre Peak as you enjoy a picnic lunch onboard. Return to Te Anau for free time. DAY 8: Te Anau - Dunedin (B,D) Travel to Dunedin for a city tour followed by some free time to explore at leisure. Hotel Distinction Dunedin DAY 9: Dunedin - Mt Cook (B,D) Travel along the Otago Peninsula to Larnach Castle for a guided tour followed by an Ultimate High Tea. Travel to Oamaru famous for its limestone, follow the Waitaki River to Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest Peak. Hotel The Hermitage Hotel (Aoraki Wing) DAY 10: Mt Cook - Christchurch (B,SD) Today the opportunity is available to enjoy a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the Southern Alps. Continue to Lake Tekapo to view the brilliant turquoise water, the Church of the Good Shepherd and the Sheep Dog Statue before arriving into Christchurch. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner including selected beverages with your new found friends. Hotel Sudima Christchurch City DAY 11: Depart Christchurch (B) Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday. gptnzNOW.com
29
Witness the South Island in Ultimate style and celebrate Christmas with a difference
Tour code: UGPX11
11 Day Ultimate Christmas Tour NO HIDDEN EXTRAS PRE PAID ATTRACTIONS • International Antarctic Centre • Larnach Castle* • Milford Sound Nature Cruise & Lunch • Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw • Lakes District Museum • TranzAlpine Rail Journey • City Sights tour of Christchurch & Dunedin *Guided tour.
ULTIMATE SMALL GROUP TOURING Personalised Meet & Greet on arrival • Return airport transfers in New Zealand • Ultimate Small Group Tour Coach with 20 luxury leather reclining seats on a full size vehicle, 2 door access and panoramic windows • Professional Coach Captain •
GUARANTEED departure 2019 Dec 19
Land only prices
NZ$
Twin share, per person Single supplement
$6699 $2230
Stay a little longer City Twin share Single Christchurch $270 $540 Extra night rates are per person and include full breakfast and other luxe benefits. Subject to availability.
17 Day Festive Season Tour Enjoy the Festive Season Kiwi style on this fully escorted 2 island tour. Refer to pages 56 - 57 for full itinerary. >> MORE FESTIVE OPTIONZ
11 Day Festive South Island Tour Featuring Milford Sound Overnight Cruise departing on Christmas Day. Refer to pages 58 - 59 for full itinerary.
>> CRUISE & XMAS DINNER
Cruise to Walter Peak Station for a gourmet Christmas dinner.
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
•
MEALS 10 cooked breakfasts • 8 sumptuous dinners including 2 specialty dinners: Christmas Dinner Walter Peak, Queenstown; Farewell Dinner, selected beverages, Christchurch • 1 picnic lunch • 1 Ultimate High Tea: Larnach Castle •
Note: Dinner on Day 1 not included for anyone arriving later than 8pm.
ITINERARY
ALL INCLUSIVE tour price Includes Ultimate 20 seat coach travel, 4.5 star hotel accommodation, most meals, sightseeing & attractions.
30
10 nights 4.5 star hotel accommodation 3 two night stays • Hotel porterage • 2 cruises • All sightseeing and pre paid attractions • Comprehensive documentation pack • BONUS Group photo •
(B) Breakfast. (L) Lunch. (D) Dinner. (SD) Specialty Dinner.
DAY 1: Arrive Christchurch (D) On arrival into Christchurch you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative who will transfer you to your hotel. Enjoy luxe benefits and a complimentary pre dinner drink as you meet your travelling companions. Hotel Sudima Christchurch City (2 nights) DAY 2: Christchurch (B) Visit the International Antarctic Centre for an interactive experience of Antarctica, followed by a city tour of Christchurch and free time at leisure. DAY 3: Christchurch - Mt Cook (B,D) Travel through the Canterbury Plains to Lake Tekapo, see the Church of the Good Shepherd and Sheep Dog Statue before arriving at Mt Cook, NZ’s highest peak. Enjoy a scenic flight (optional, time and weather permitting) over the Southern Alps. Hotel The Hermitage Hotel (Aoraki Wing) DAY 4: Mt Cook - Dunedin (B,D) Today see Lake Benmore before following the Waitaki River to Oamaru. Continue to Dunedin, enjoy a city tour and free time. Hotel Distinction Dunedin DAY 5: Dunedin - Te Anau (B,D) Travel along the Otago Peninsula to Larnach Castle, hear the tragic and scandalous stories on a guided tour followed by an Ultimate High Tea served in the Grand Ballroom. Continue south through Balclutha and Gore to Te Anau. Hotel Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas (2 nights) DAY 6: Te Anau - Milford Sound - Te Anau (B,L,D) This morning enjoy a fascinating drive to Milford Sound where you board your launch for a nature cruise on this magnificent fiord. Enjoy a picnic lunch onboard before returning to Te Anau for free time.
DAY 7: Te Anau - Queenstown - Christmas Day (B,SD) Merry Christmas! Today travel to Queenstown, a year round resort, situated on the shores of magical Lake Wakatipu. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise to Walter Peak Station for a delicious gourmet Christmas dinner in the Colonel’s Homestead. Reboard the TSS Earnslaw for a sing along by the piano on your return cruise. Hotel Millennium Hotel Queenstown (2 nights) DAY 8: Queenstown (Free Day) (B) Today is a free day. There are plenty of sightseeing options available. This evening is also free to dine at leisure. DAY 9: Queenstown - Franz Josef (B,D) Travel to Arrowtown and visit the Lakes District Museum. Continue via the Haast Pass and see the snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps enroute to the township of Fox Glacier. Continue to Franz Josef where time is available to experience a scenic flight (optional) over the spectacular glaciers. Hotel Te Waonui Forest Retreat DAY 10: Franz Josef - Arthur’s Pass - Christchurch (B,SD) At Hokitika visit the Greenstone Factory. Continue to Arthur’s Pass to board the TranzAlpine, one of the great train journeys of the world and enjoy spectacular scenery. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner including selected beverages with your new friends. Hotel Sudima Christchurch City DAY 11: Depart Christchurch (B) Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.
The ultimate getaway featuring New Year’s Eve in Wellington
Tour code: UGPNY11
11 Day Ultimate New Year Escape NO HIDDEN EXTRAS PRE PAID ATTRACTIONS • Te Papa, NZ’s National Museum • Cruise on the Interislander Ferry • Larnach Castle* • Milford Sound Nature Cruise & Lunch • Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw • Lakes District Museum • TranzAlpine Rail Journey • City Sights tour of Wellington, Christchurch & Dunedin *Guided tour.
ULTIMATE SMALL GROUP TOURING Personalised Meet & Greet on arrival • Return airport transfers in New Zealand • Ultimate Small Group Tour Coach with 20 luxury leather reclining seats on a full size vehicle, 2 door access and panoramic windows •
GUARANTEED departure 2019 Dec 30 ALL INCLUSIVE tour price Includes Ultimate 20 seat coach travel, 4.5 star hotel accommodation, most meals, sightseeing & attractions. Land only prices
NZ$
Twin share, per person Single supplement
$6699 $2230
(B) Breakfast. (L) Lunch. (D) Dinner. (SD) Specialty Dinner.
DAY 1: Arrive Wellington (D) On arrival into Wellington you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Meet your travelling companions over a complimentary pre dinner drink. Hotel InterContinental Wellington (Deluxe Room. 2 nights) DAY 2: Wellington - New Year’s Eve (B,D) A highlight will be time to explore Te Papa, NZ’s National Museum. Enjoy a city tour of the nation’s capital. This afternoon is free before preparing to see in the New Year with your fellow travellers.
Extra night rates are per person and based on room only. Subject to availability. ^Extra night rates in Christchurch are per person and include full breakfast and other luxe benefits. Subject to availability.
DAY 3: Wellington - Picton - Blenheim (B,D) Board the Interislander Ferry and cruise through the Marlborough Sounds to Picton, board the coach for travel to Blenheim. This evening at dinner sample local Marlborough wines. Hotel Marlborough Vintners Hotel
19 Day Ultimate Rail, Cruise & Coach Experience Visit the icons of the North & South Island during the festive season on the 19 Day Ultimate Rail, Cruise & Coach Experience. Refer to pages 20 - 21 for full itinerary.
DAY 4: Blenheim - Christchurch (B) Tour through Marlborough Country, famous for its food and wine then travel to the seaside village of Kaikoura. Continue into the garden city of Christchurch for an introductory city sights tour. Hotel Sudima Christchurch City DAY 5: Christchurch - Dunedin (B,D) Depart Christchurch and travel south through Oamaru, famous for its limestone. In Dunedin enjoy a city tour followed by some free time at leisure. Hotel Distinction Dunedin
You will enjoy 5 star treatment and VIP extras at every venue.
•
MEALS 10 cooked breakfasts • 8 sumptuous dinners including 2 specialty dinners: Walter Peak Homestead, Queenstown; Farewell Dinner, selected beverages, Christchurch • Marlborough wine with dinner in Blenheim • 1 picnic lunch • 1 Ultimate High Tea: Larnach Castle •
Note: Dinner on Day 1 not included for anyone arriving later than 8pm.
ITINERARY
Stay a little longer City Twin share Single Wellington $175 $350 Christchurch^ $270 $540
>> VISIT BOTH ISLANDS
Professional Coach Captain 10 nights 4.5 star hotel accommodation • 2 two night stays • Hotel porterage • 3 cruises • All sightseeing and pre paid attractions • Comprehensive documentation pack • BONUS Group photo •
DAY 6: Dunedin - Te Anau (B,D) Travel to Larnach Castle where you will hear of the scandalous history on a guided tour followed by an Ultimate High Tea. Continue south through Balclutha and Gore to Te Anau. Hotel Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas
DAY 7: Te Anau - Milford Sound - Queenstown (B,L) This morning enjoy a fascinating drive to Milford Sound for a nature cruise on this magnificent fiord. See the spectacular Bowen Falls and Mitre Peak as you enjoy a picnic lunch. Continue to Queenstown where this evening is free to dine at leisure. Hotel Millennium Hotel Queenstown (2 nights) DAY 8: Queenstown (Free Day) (B,SD) Today is a free day with many sightseeing options available. This evening board the TSS Earnslaw and cruise to Walter Peak station. On arrival sit back and relax as you are treated to the best of NZ’s high country cuisine in the Colonel’s Homestead. DAY 9: Queenstown - Franz Josef (B,D) Travel to Arrowtown and visit the Lakes District Museum. Continue via the Haast Pass and see the snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps enroute to Franz Josef where time is available to experience a scenic flight (optional) over the spectacular glaciers. Hotel Te Waonui Forest Retreat DAY 10: Franz Josef - Arthur’s Pass - Christchurch (B,SD) Travel to Hokitika and visit the Greenstone Factory. Continue to Arthur’s Pass, board the TranzAlpine, one of the great train journeys of the world. Enjoy the spectacular scenery through to Christchurch. This evening you will be treated to a farewell dinner including selected beverages with your new found friends. Hotel Sudima Christchurch City DAY 11: Depart Christchurch (B) Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.
gptnzNOW.com
31
New Zealand
COACH HOLIDAY SPECIALIST
“We have been so happy with our tour. We felt so special as we were given exceptional treatment throughout. Love it all and will recommend GPT to anyone and everyone!” C. M. - Past traveller
32
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
Fully Escorted 4 Star Hotel Accommodation Most Popular
Signature Coach Tours Experience the difference Unique attractions
E
xplore the stunning regions and intriguing history of New Zealand on your choice of four unique itineraries. Relax in armchair comfort on a modern coach as you visit all the iconic attractions plus enjoy an array of distinctive experiences. 19 Day NZ, Rail, Cruise & Coach Holiday Experience the romance of 4 rail journeys, the majesty of 4 scenic cruises including an overnight on Milford Sound and the luxury of coach travel. Visit all the ‘best of’ attractions and enjoy 6 two night stays.
19 Day New Zealand Showcase Discover all the ‘must see attractions’ from top to bottom such as the Hobbiton Movie Set tour, cultural Rotorua, Napier’s beautifully preserved art deco architecture, picturesque Queenstown and scenic Milford Sound.
10 Day South Island Spectacular Escape to New Zealand’s majestic South Island. Beginning in Christchurch, discover highlights such as the worldfamous TranzAlpine, the rugged West Coast, picturesque Queenstown, scenic Milford Sound and mighty Mt Cook.
9 Day Northern Spectacular Discover the North Island’s history, culture and beautiful scenery. Visit Auckland the ‘City of Sails’, the stunning Bay of Islands, Hobbiton Movie Set, Rotorua, Napier and the ‘Coolest little Capital’ - Wellington.
gptnzNOW.com
33
Featuring 4 breathtaking rail journeys and Milford Sound overnight cruise
Tour code: GPR19
19 Day New Zealand Rail, Cruise & Coach Holiday TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Milford Sound Overnight Cruise
Pukerangi
THE MILFORD MARINER GUARANTEED departures 2019 2020 Sep 10, 19, 26 Jan 8, 18 Oct 7, 14, 25 Feb 5, 8, 18, 23 Nov 3, 13, 26 Mar 2, 7, 13, 16, 22, 26 Apr 3, 6, 18, 21 May 4 SEASONAL OFFER Save $300 per person on highlighted departure dates. ALL INCLUSIVE tour price Fully escorted tour includes modern coach travel, 4 star hotel accommodation, most meals, sightseeing & attractions. Land only prices
NZ$
Twin share, per person Single supplement
$7899 $2600
Stay a little longer City Twin share Single Auckland $175 $350 Christchurch $135 $270 Extra night rates are per person and based on room only. Subject to availability.
The Hongi, a traditional Maori greeting.
34
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
For a majestic experience, spend the night on board the Milford Mariner. Cruise the full length of Milford Sound with commentary by a specialist nature guide. You will 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. As evening falls, enjoy a delicious carvery buffet, prepared by an onboard chef. Relax in the company of your fellow travellers or indulge in some star-gazing before retiring to your private cabin. In the morning, indulge in a hearty breakfast before heading back out to the Tasman Sea (weather permitting) and exploring more of the breathtaking fiord.
NO HIDDEN EXTRAS PRE PAID ATTRACTIONS • Kauri Museum* • Waitangi Treaty Grounds* • Dolphin / Hole in the Rock Cruise • Glenbrook Vintage Railway • Paradise Valley Springs* • Skyline Rotorua Gondola & Luge Ride • Agrodome • Thermal mud pools & geysers* • Te Puia traditional Maori Hangi & Concert • Wellington Tramway Museum • Te Papa, NZ’s National Museum • Cruise on the Interislander Ferry • Coastal Pacific Rail Journey • International Antarctic Centre • Christchurch Tram • TranzAlpine Rail Journey • Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw • Lakes District Museum • HIGHLIGHT Milford Sound Overnight Cruise • Taieri Gorge Limited Rail Journey • Larnach Castle* • Haggis Ceremony & Gift • Olveston Historic Home* • City sights tour of Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch & Dunedin *Guided tour is included with 1 guide per 24 travellers.
TOURING Personalised Meet & Greet on arrival • Return airport transfers in New Zealand • Modern coach travel with 2 door access, restroom, reclining seats and panoramic windows • Professional Coach Captain & Tour Guide • 17 nights 4 star hotel accommodation • Milford Sound Overnight Cruise • 6 two night stays • Hotel porterage • 4 rail journeys • 4 cruises • All sightseeing and pre paid attractions • Comprehensive documentation pack •
MEALS 18 cooked breakfasts including a specialty breakfast: Stratosfare Restaurant, Rotorua • 14 sumptuous dinners including 4 specialty dinners: Maori Hangi & Concert, Rotorua; Walter Peak Homestead, Queenstown; Haggis Ceremony, Dunedin; Farewell Dinner, Christchurch • 2 delicious morning teas •
Note: Dinner on Day 1 not included for anyone arriving later than 8pm.
+ 4 breathtaking rail journeys
Glenbrook Vintage Rail
Coastal Pacific
THE Taieri Gorge Limited
THE TranzAlpine
Experience the thrill of travelling by
Begin your journey from the coastal
The Taieri Gorge scenic journey
One of the great train journeys of
steam train as you meander through
port of Picton, travel through the
will travel through some of New
the world. Depart Christchurch
beautiful rural countryside on a
picturesque Marlborough Wine
Zealand’s most spectacular and
and travel through the patchwork
vintage train hauled by one of the
Region and the East Coast providing
iconic scenery. The train will make
farmlands of the Canterbury Plains,
lovingly restored steam locomotives.
vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the
its way through ten tunnels and over
view alpine scenery, river valleys and
Settle into the immaculate wood
coastal mountains. You may see
countless bridges and viaducts. The
spectacular gorges as you ascend to
carriages and as you listen to the
amazing wildlife including dolphins,
natural wonders combined with the
Arthur’s Pass located in the centre of
panting steam engine. Morning tea
seals and penguins.
challenge of man-made engineering
the Southern Alps.
will also be served.
will leave you amazed.
ITINERARY (B) Breakfast. (L) Lunch. (D) Dinner. (SD) Specialty Dinner.
DAY 1: Arrive Auckland (D) On arrival into Auckland you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. Hotel Grand Millennium Hotel DAY 2: Auckland - Bay of Islands (B,D) 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 Maori tribes and the British. Hotel Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands or similar (2 nights) DAY 3: Bay of Islands (Free Day) (B) 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 and you may like to enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise (optional).
DAY 4: Bay of Islands - Auckland (B,D) This morning travel aboard a luxury catamaran to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. Keep an eye out for bottlenose and common dolphins before returning to Paihia. Travel south via Whangarei, call into the Parry Kauri Park to see a magnificent example of a Kauri Tree before returning to Auckland. Hotel Grand Millennium Hotel DAY 5: Auckland - Rotorua (B,D) This morning travel to Glenbrook Vintage Railway for a nostalgic 15 kilometre trip back in time on a beautifully restored vintage steam train. Visit the restoration workshop and on return to Glenbrook Station, morning tea will be served. Depart Glenbrook and travel through magnificent countryside of rolling hills and green pastures famous for dairying. Continue to Rotorua to visit Paradise Valley Springs, a superb wildlife park where you can hand feed rainbow trout. Hotel Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua (Superior Room. 2 nights)
DAY 6: Rotorua (B,SD) Today begins with a gondola ride and breakfast at the Skyline Rotorua. There is also time for a luge ride! Next stop is Agrodome for an action packed hour of farming entertainment and education that’s 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 Maori Hangi and Concert. DAY 7: Rotorua - Wellington (B,D) 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 to the Wellington Tramway Museum to view a display of tramway history and enjoy a nostalgic trip on one of the original trams that served Wellington city. Hotel James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor (Lambton Room. 2 nights)
DAYS 8 - 19 SEE PAGES 36 - 37 >> gptnzNOW.com
35
DAY 8: Wellington (B) A highlight this morning will be time to explore Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum with exhibits that embrace both Maori and European views. 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.
DAY 10: Christchurch (B) 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 your leisure, one of Christchurch’s leading attractions. This evening is free to explore the local cuisine.
DAY 9: Wellington - Christchurch (B,D)
DAY 11: Christchurch - Arthur’s Pass - Franz Josef (B,D) This morning board the TranzAlpine, 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. Hotel Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier (Douglas Wing)
This morning board the Interislander Ferry, cross Cook Strait and travel through the Marlborough Sounds to Picton. Join the Coastal Pacific, a truly spectacular rail journey that showcases the Kaikoura mountain ranges on one side and the rugged scenic coastline on the other travelling through numerous tunnels and across several bridges. Enjoy a two night stay in the garden city of Christchurch. Hotel Distinction Christchurch (2 nights)
36
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
DAY 12: Franz Josef - Queenstown (B) 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. Hotel Copthorne Hotel and Resort Lakefront (2 nights) DAY 13: Queenstown (Free Day) (B,SD) Today is a free day for you to explore Queenstown. Your Tour Guide and Coach Captain are available to assist with the many options available. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back, relax and enjoy a gourmet barbecue dinner which the chef will prepare in front of you at the Colonel’s Homestead. After dinner enjoy a short farm tour then reboard the TSS Earnslaw for a sing along by the piano on your return cruise.
3 must do optionz Cape Reinga Wander Via 90 Mile Beach A full-day trip takes you to the iconic Cape Reinga lighthouse at NZ’s most northern tip, where the Tasman Sea meets the mighty Pacific Ocean. Discover the wild beauty of the region, rich in Maori culture and tradition.
Twin Glacier Helicopter Flight Fly over both the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, and then following the ice flow high into the upper reaches. Land in the snow at the head of a glacier and survey the path that the glacier has carved below you.
Te Anau Glowworm Caves Venture into the underground caves for a tour of the mysterious world of waterfalls and incredible rock formations before drifting into silent darkness beneath glittering glowworms.
DAY 14: Queenstown - Milford Sound Overnight Cruise (B,D) 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. As evening falls enjoy a delicious carvery buffet prepared freshly by the onboard chef. Overnight Milford Mariner DAY 15: Milford Sound - Te Anau (B,D) Start the day with a hearty breakfast before heading back out to the Tasman Sea (weather permitting) to explore more of the fiord. Return back 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 Glow Worm Caves (optional). Hotel Distinction Luxmore (Deluxe Room)
DAY 16: Te Anau - Dunedin (B,D) Travel via Gore and Balclutha to Pukerangi to board The Taieri Gorge Limited for a journey through spectacular scenery only accessible by rail. On arrival at Dunedin’s historic Edwardian Railway Station your coach will transfer you to the hotel. Hotel Scenic Hotel Southern Cross (2 nights)
DAY 18: Dunedin - Christchurch (B,SD) This morning visit Olveston, a prosperous merchants’ home from the turn of the century before travelling to Oamaru, famous for its limestone. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner with your new found friends. Hotel Sudima Hotel Christchurch Airport
DAY 17: Dunedin (B,SD) 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 the city for an informative city tour followed by some free time. You might be interested in a tour of Speights Brewery (optional) or the chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat (optional). Tonight a Scottish evening will be presented comprising of bagpipes, great food, Haggis Ceremony and gift.
DAY 19: Depart Christchurch (B) Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: View Pohutu Geyser in Rotorua; the Christchurch Tram is one of the city’s leading attractions; enjoy a guided tour and a Devonshire Tea at Larnach Castle; cruise aboard the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak; you will be immersed in the Maori Culture during your visit to the North Island; visit the Hole in the Rock in the Bay of Islands.
gptnzNOW.com
37
Experience the best of New Zealand on this value for money tour
Tour code: GPS19
19 Day New Zealand Showcase NO HIDDEN EXTRAS
GUARANTEED departures 2019 2020 Sep 12, 15, 30 Jan 22 Oct 12, 18, 27 Feb 6, 9, 14, 19, 21 Nov 5, 14, 18 Mar 4, 11, 14, 20, 24 Apr 9, 14, 25 May 2
PRE PAID ATTRACTIONS • Kauri Museum* • Waitangi Treaty Grounds* • Dolphin / Hole in the Rock Cruise • Sky Tower • Hobbiton Movie Set Tour & Lunch • Skyline Rotorua Gondola & Luge Ride • Agrodome • Thermal mud pools & geysers* • Te Puia traditional Maori Hangi & Concert • Te Papa, NZ’s National Museum • Cruise on the Interislander Ferry • TranzAlpine Rail Journey • Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw • Lakes District Museum • Milford Sound Cruise & Lunch • Larnach Castle* • Haggis Ceremony & Gift • City sights tour of Auckland, Napier, Wellington, Dunedin & Christchurch *Guided tour is included with 1 guide per 24 travellers.
Land only prices
NZ$
Twin share, per person Single supplement
$7199 $2350
Stay a little longer City Twin share Single Auckland $160 $320 Christchurch $135 $270 Extra night rates are per person and based on room only. Subject to availability.
Experience an entertaining Maori Hangi and Concert at Te Puia.
38
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
MEALS 18 cooked breakfasts including a specialty breakfast: Stratosfare Restaurant, Rotorua • 16 sumptuous dinners including 4 specialty dinners: Maori Hangi & Concert, Rotorua; Walter Peak Homestead, Queenstown; Haggis Ceremony, Dunedin; Farewell Dinner, Christchurch • 2 lunches including a Shire’s buffet lunch: Hobbiton • 1 delicious Devonshire Tea: Larnach Castle •
Note: Dinner on Day 1 not included for anyone arriving later than 8pm.
SEASONAL OFFER Save $300 per person on highlighted departure dates. ALL INCLUSIVE tour price Fully escorted tour includes modern coach travel, 4 star hotel accommodation, most meals, sightseeing & attractions.
TOURING Personalised Meet & Greet on arrival • Return airport transfers in New Zealand • Modern coach travel with 2 door access, restroom, reclining seats and panoramic windows • Professional Coach Captain & Tour Guide • 18 nights 4 star hotel accommodation • 4 two night stays • Hotel porterage • 4 cruises • All sightseeing and pre paid attractions • Comprehensive documentation pack •
ITINERARY (B) Breakfast. (L) Lunch. (D) Dinner. (SD) Specialty Dinner.
DAY 1: Arrive Auckland (D) On arrival into Auckland you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. Hotel Skycity Hotel Auckland DAY 2: Auckland - Bay of Islands (B,D) Depart Auckland and travel to the Parry Kauri Park to see a magnificent example of a Kauri Tree. Enjoy a visit and informative talk at the Kauri Museum in Matakohe, then 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 Maori tribes and the British. Hotel Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands or similar (2 nights)
a visit to Sky Tower at your leisure, one of New Zealand’s most spectacular attractions. Hotel Skycity Hotel Auckland DAY 5: Auckland - Rotorua (B,L,D) Today enjoy a city sights tour of Auckland. Continue through the picturesque countryside to Hobbiton for a buffet lunch. This is followed by a guided tour of the Movie Set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Your guide will recount details of how this beautiful piece of farmland was transformed into The Shire from Middle Earth. Hotel Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua (Superior Room. 2 nights)
DAY 3: Bay of Islands (Free Day) (B) 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 and you may like to enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise (optional).
DAY 6: Rotorua (B,SD) Today begins with a gondola ride and breakfast at the Skyline Rotorua. There is also time for a luge ride! Next stop is Agrodome for an action packed hour of farming entertainment and education that’s 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 Maori Hangi and Concert.
DAY 4: Bay of Islands - Auckland (B,D) This morning travel aboard a luxury catamaran to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. Keep an eye out for bottlenose and common dolphins before returning to Paihia. Travel south via Whangarei to Auckland. This afternoon includes
DAY 7: Rotorua - Napier - Masterton (B,D) Depart Rotorua and travel along the Thermal Explorer Highway to Huka Falls and Lake Taupo. Continue to Napier known as ‘The Art Deco Capital’, where a city tour will showcase an impressive collection of art deco buildings.
>> TOUR HIGH LIGHT
LEFT TO RIGHT: Enjoy a tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set; Waitangi Treaty Grounds; cruise the spectacular Milford Sound.
Enjoy some free time to explore the fascinating architecture before travelling through the Wairarapa, an emerging cool-climate wine region. Hotel Copthorne Hotel and Resort Solway Park DAY 8: Masterton - Greytown - Wellington (B,D) Enjoy a leisurely start to the day before travelling to Greytown where you see the most complete example of original Victorian wooden architecture. Drive through the scenic Rimutaka Mountain Range into Wellington, where you will enjoy a city tour of the nation’s capital which will highlight the history and culture on show here. Hotel James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor (Lambton Room) DAY 9: Wellington - Picton - Blenheim (B,D) A highlight this morning will be time to explore Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum with exhibits that embrace both Maori and European views. This afternoon board the Interislander Ferry, cross Cook Strait and travel through the Marlborough Sounds to Picton where you board your coach for the short journey to Blenheim. Hotel Scenic Hotel Marlborough DAY 10: Blenheim - Kaikoura - Christchurch (B,D) Tour through Marlborough Country, famous for its food and wine, then travel to the seaside village of Kaikoura. Continue onto the garden city of Christchurch. Hotel Distinction Christchurch DAY 11: Christchurch - Arthur’s Pass - Franz Josef (B,D) 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 continuing to the township of Franz Josef where time is available to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the spectacular glaciers. Hotel Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier (Douglas Wing)
MUST DO OPTION VOLCANIC AIR During your time in Rotorua, experience a flight in either a floatplane or helicopter to experience the stunning lakes district, vibrant geothermal reserves and remarkable volcanoes. Volcanic Air have an option for everyone!
DAY 12: Franz Josef - Queenstown (B) See the snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel south along the West Coast. Continue 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 and you may choose to dine out at one of the many fine restaurants. Hotel Mercure Queenstown Resort (Lakeview Room. 2 nights) DAY 13: Queenstown (Free Day) (B,SD) Today is a free day. There are plenty of sightseeing options and your Coach Captain and Tour Guide are available to assist. You may wish to enjoy the thrill of a jet boat ride, a heritage tour of the scenic Skippers Canyon or get up close to a Kiwi bird. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back, relax and enjoy a gourmet barbecue dinner which the chef will prepare in front of you 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. DAY 14: Queenstown - Te Anau (B,D) Enjoy a leisurely start this morning before travelling to Arrowtown, an old gold mining village where you visit the Lakes District Museum. Continue to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland. Today you may like to visit the Te Anau Glow Worm Caves (optional). Hotel Distinction Luxmore Hotel (Deluxe Rooms. 2 nights)
DAY 15: Te Anau - Milford Sound - Te Anau (B,L,D) 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 a picnic lunch onboard. This afternoon return to Te Anau where some free time is available. You might like to cap off your Fiordland experience by watching the breathtaking film, Ata Whenua - Shadowland, which screens at the Fiordland Cinema (optional). DAY 16: Te Anau - Dunedin (B,SD) Travel via Gore and Balclutha to Dunedin known as the ‘Edinburgh of the South’ and enjoy an informative city tour. 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 a delicious Devonshire Tea. Tonight a Scottish evening will be presented comprising of bagpipes, great food, special Haggis Ceremony and gift. Hotel Scenic Hotel Dunedin City DAY 17: Dunedin - Mt Cook - Twizel (B,D) Farewell Dunedin and travel to Oamaru famous for its limestone. Follow the Waitaki River and see Lake Benmore as you continue to marvel at Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. The opportunity is available to enjoy a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the Southern Alps. Travel to Twizel for your overnight stay. Hotel MacKenzie Country Hotel DAY 18: Twizel - Christchurch (B,SD) Continue to Lake Tekapo and view the brilliant turquoise water, visit the Church of the Good Shepherd and see the Sheep Dog Statue before arriving into Christchurch for an informative city tour. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner with your new found friends. Hotel Sudima Hotel Christchurch Airport DAY 19: Depart Christchurch (B) Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.
gptnzNOW.com
39
Showcasing nature’s best in the majestic South Island
Tour code: GPS10
10 Day South Island Spectacular NO HIDDEN EXTRAS PRE PAID ATTRACTIONS • TranzAlpine Rail Journey • Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw • Lakes District Museum • Milford Sound Cruise & Lunch • Larnach Castle* • Haggis Ceremony & Gift • City sights tour of Dunedin & Christchurch *Guided tour is included with 1 guide per 24 travellers.
TOURING Personalised Meet & Greet on arrival • Return airport transfers in New Zealand • Modern coach travel with 2 door access, restroom, reclining seats and panoramic windows • Professional Coach Captain & Tour Guide • 9 nights 4 star hotel accommodation • 2 two night stays • Hotel porterage • 2 cruises • All sightseeing and pre paid attractions • Comprehensive documentation pack •
MEALS 9 cooked breakfasts • 8 sumptuous dinners including 3 specialty dinners: Walter Peak Homestead, Queenstown; Haggis Ceremony, Dunedin; Farewell Dinner, Christchurch • 1 picnic lunch • 1 delicious Devonshire Tea: Larnach Castle •
GUARANTEED departures 2019 2020 Sep 21, 24 Jan 31 Oct 9, 21, 27 Feb 12, 15, 18, 23, 28 Nov 5, 14, 23, 27 Mar 1, 13, 20, 23, 29 Apr 2, 18, 23 May 4, 11 SEASONAL OFFER Save $200 per person on highlighted departure dates. ALL INCLUSIVE tour price Fully escorted tour includes modern coach travel, 4 star hotel accommodation, most meals, sightseeing & attractions. Land only prices
NZ$
Twin share, per person Single supplement
$4249 $1300
Stay a little longer City Twin share Single Christchurch $135 $270 Extra night rates are per person and based on room only. Subject to availability.
Note: Dinner on Day 1 not included for anyone arriving later than 8pm.
ITINERARY (B) Breakfast. (L) Lunch. (D) Dinner. (SD) Specialty Dinner.
DAY 1: Arrive Christchurch (D) On arrival into Christchurch you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. Hotel Distinction Christchurch DAY 2: Christchurch - Arthur’s Pass - Franz Josef (B,D) 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 continuing to the township of Franz Josef where time is available to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the spectacular glaciers. Hotel Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier (Douglas Wing) DAY 3: Franz Josef - Queenstown (B) See the snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel south along the West Coast. Continue 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 and you may choose to dine out at one of the many fine restaurants. Hotel Mercure Queenstown Resort (Lakeview Rooms. 2 nights)
View local wildlife in the Fiordland National Park.
40
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
DAY 4: Queenstown (Free Day) (B,SD) Today is a free day. There are plenty of sightseeing options and your Coach Captain & Tour Guide are available to assist. You may wish to enjoy the thrill of a jet boat ride, a heritage tour of the scenic Skippers Canyon or to get up close to a Kiwi bird. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back, relax and enjoy a gourmet barbecue dinner which the chef will prepare in front of you 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. DAY 5: Queenstown - Te Anau (B,D) Enjoy a leisurely start this morning before travelling to Arrowtown, an old gold mining village where you visit the Lakes District Museum. This innovative museum is heavily involved in the protection of the historic buildings scattered around town. Continue to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland. Today you may like to visit the Te Anau Glow Worm Caves (optional). Hotel Distinction Luxmore Hotel (Deluxe Rooms. 2 nights) DAY 6: Te Anau - Milford Sound - Te Anau (B,L,D) 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 a picnic lunch onboard. This afternoon return to
MUST DO OPTIONZ
Haast River Safari Enjoy the opportunity to experience the untouched natural beauty of the South West World Heritage Area of New Zealand while travelling in a unique custom designed, fully enclosed Jet boat.
>> TOUR HIGH LIGHT
Mountain Scenic Spectacular On a 40 minute helicopter flight you will view the incredible natural phenomenon of the towering ice formations and vast size of the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers.
Te Anau where some free time is available. You may like to visit the Fiordland Cinema, specially constructed to screen the locally filmed movie Ata Whenua - Shadowland which will take you on an unforgettable journey (optional). DAY 7: Te Anau - Dunedin (B,SD) Travel via Gore and Balclutha to Dunedin known as the ‘Edinburgh of the South’ and enjoy an informative city tour. 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 a delicious Devonshire Tea. Tonight a Scottish evening will be presented comprising of bagpipes, great food, special Haggis Ceremony and gift. Hotel Scenic Hotel Dunedin City DAY 8: Dunedin - Mt Cook - Twizel (B,D) Farewell Dunedin and travel to Oamaru famous for its limestone. Follow the Waitaki River and see Lake Benmore as you continue to marvel at Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. The opportunity is available to enjoy a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the Southern Alps. Travel to Twizel for your overnight stay. Hotel MacKenzie Country Hotel DAY 9: Twizel - Christchurch (B,SD) Continue to Lake Tekapo and view the brilliant turquoise water, visit the Church of the Good Shepherd and see the Sheep Dog Statue before arriving into Christchurch for an informative city tour. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner with your new found friends. Hotel Sudima Hotel Christchurch Airport DAY 10: Depart Christchurch (B) Time to say goodbye. You’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday. TOP TO BOTTOM: The Milford Sound Cruise continues to be the highest rated South Island attraction by our travellers; the TranzAlpine, renowned as one of the great train journeys of the world; cruise to Walter Peak Station for a delicious gourmet BBQ in the Colonel’s Homestead.
gptnzNOW.com
41
Presenting the North Island’s history and cultural icons
Tour code: GPS9
9 Day Northern Spectacular NO HIDDEN EXTRAS PRE PAID ATTRACTIONS • Kauri Museum* • Waitangi Treaty Grounds* • Dolphin / Hole in the Rock Cruise • Sky Tower • Hobbiton Movie Set Tour & lunch • Skyline Rotorua Gondola & Luge Ride • Agrodome • Thermal mud pools & geysers* • Te Puia traditional Maori Hangi & Concert • City sights tour of Auckland, Napier & Wellington *Guided tour is included with 1 guide per 24 travellers.
TOURING Personalised Meet & Greet on arrival • Return airport transfers in New Zealand • Modern coach travel with 2 door access, restroom, reclining seats and panoramic windows • Professional Coach Captain & Tour Guide • 8 nights 4 star hotel accommodation • 2 two night stays • Hotel porterage • 1 cruise • All sightseeing and pre paid attractions • Comprehensive documentation pack •
MEALS 8 cooked breakfasts including a specialty breakfast: Stratosfare Restaurant, Rotorua • 7 sumptuous dinners including a specialty dinner: Maori Hangi & Concert, Rotorua • 1 Shire’s buffet lunch: Hobbiton •
GUARANTEED departures 2019 2020 Sep 12, 15, 30 Jan 22 Oct 12, 18, 27 Feb 6, 9, 14, 19, 21 Nov 5, 14, 18 Mar 4, 11, 14, 20, 24 Apr 9, 14, 25 May 2 SEASONAL OFFER Save $200 per person on highlighted departure dates. ALL INCLUSIVE tour price Fully escorted tour includes modern coach travel, 4 star hotel accommodation, most meals, sightseeing & attractions. Land only prices
NZ$
Twin share, per person Single supplement
$3719 $1130
Stay a little longer City Twin share Single Auckland $160 $320 Wellington $150 $300 Extra night rates are per person and based on room only. Subject to availability.
An optional visit to spectacular Cape Reinga is available.
42
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
Note: Dinner on Day 1 not included for anyone arriving later than 8pm.
ITINERARY (B) Breakfast. (L) Lunch. (D) Dinner. (SD) Specialty Dinner.
DAY 1: Arrive Auckland (D) On arrival into Auckland you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. Hotel Skycity Hotel Auckland DAY 2: Auckland - Bay of Islands (B,D) Depart Auckland and travel to the Parry Kauri Park to see a magnificent example of a Kauri Tree. Enjoy a visit and informative talk at the Kauri Museum in Matakohe, then 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 Maori tribes and the British. Hotel Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands or similar (2 nights) DAY 3: Bay of Islands (Free Day) (B) Today is a free day. Choose from the many optional activities available, including the Cape Reinga coach trip via Ninety Mile Beach, a tour of historic Russell, a classic sail on a tall ship or a spectacular scenic flight. This evening is also free and you may like to enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise (optional). DAY 4: Bay of Islands - Auckland (B,D) This morning travel aboard a luxury catamaran to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. Keep an eye out for bottlenose and common dolphins before returning to Paihia. Travel south via Whangarei to Auckland. This afternoon includes a visit to Sky Tower at your leisure, one of New Zealand’s most spectacular attractions. Hotel Skycity Hotel Auckland
DAY 5: Auckland - Rotorua (B,L,D) Today enjoy a city sights tour of Auckland. Continue through the picturesque countryside to Hobbiton for a buffet lunch. This is followed by a guided tour of the Movie Set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Your guide will recount details of how this beautiful piece of farmland was transformed into The Shire from Middle Earth. Hotel Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua (Superior Room. 2 nights) DAY 6: Rotorua (B,SD) Today begins with a gondola ride at the Skyline Rotorua where a buffet breakfast and spectacular views are on offer. There is also time for a thrilling luge ride! Next stop is Agrodome for an action packed hour of farming entertainment and education that’s 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 you will experience an entertaining Maori cultural performance which features the graceful poi dance and ferocious haka. This is followed by a Hangi feast prepared in the traditional way, over hot coals and buried in the ground. DAY 7: Rotorua - Napier - Masterton (B,D) Depart Rotorua and travel along the Thermal Explorer Highway to Huka Falls and Lake Taupo. Continue to Napier known as ‘The Art Deco Capital’, where a city tour will showcase the most comprehensive collection of art deco buildings in the world. Enjoy some free time to explore on your own or take a guided walk (optional). Travel to the Wairarapa, an emerging cool-climate wine region. Hotel Copthorne Hotel and Resort Solway Park
MUST DO OPTIONZ
ART DECO GUIDED WALK In Napier take a guided walking tour and hear how the town was transformed from the 1931 earthquake devastation to world renowned Art Deco architecture.
>> ICONIC ATTRACTION
CAPE REINGA FLY/DRIVE HALF DAY TOUR Enjoy an unforgettable scenic flight along the West Coast via 90 Mile Beach to Cape Reinga, NZ’s most northern tip. Explore by vehicle before returning to Paihia.
DAY 8: Masterton - Greytown - Wellington (B,D) Enjoy a leisurely start to the day before travelling to Greytown where you see the most complete examples of original Victorian wooden architecture. Drive through Featherston and through the Rimutaka Mountain Range before arriving into Wellington. Enjoy a city tour of the nation’s capital which will highlight the history and culture on show here. Hotel James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor (Lambton Room) DAY 9: Depart Wellington (B) Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT: Enjoy a tour of the movie set from the The Hobbit trilogies; cruise through the famous Hole in the Rock; view awesome Geyser’s in the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua; Waitangi Treaty Grounds.
gptnzNOW.com
43
New Zealand
COACH HOLIDAY SPECIALIST
“Excellent! The included visits in the tour and the meals were more than we expected. Very good value for what we paid. We enjoyed the company of all our fellow travellers.” I. & T. P. - Past travellers
44
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
Fully escorted 3.5 Star Hotel Accommodation Extensive inclusions
Affordable Coach Tours Unbeatable value No hidden extras
E
njoy an unbeatable value for money experience which includes a wide range of attractions that set these tours apart. Travel on a modern, 48 seater coach and visit the ‘must do’ icons of New Zealand without breaking the budget. 16 Day Highlights of New Zealand Tour Experience all the iconic attractions of New Zealand including breathtaking Milford Sound and world renowned rail journey, the TranzAlpine. Includes two night stays in Queenstown, Wellington, Rotorua and the Bay of Islands.
14 Day New Zealand Panorama Tour Experience the natural beauty and unique culture of both islands by modern coach without breaking the budget. Featuring an extensive list of attractions with 3 two night stays including exhilarating Queenstown.
9 Day Taste of the South Island Showcases New Zealand’s breathtaking South Island scenery as you relax on board the comfort of a modern coach. Witness a palette of dramatic landscapes and enjoy a number of iconic attractions.
8 Day Taste of the North Island A comprehensive tour designed for the time conscious traveller. Immerse yourself in the wonders of the North Island including Wellington, cultural Rotorua, the beautiful Bay of Islands and cosmopolitan Auckland.
gptnzNOW.com
45
Unbeatable value including the beautiful sub-tropical region of the Bay of Islands
Tour code: GPN16
16 Day Highlights of New Zealand Tour NO HIDDEN EXTRAS
GUARANTEED departures 2019 2020 Sep 10, 19, 26 Jan 8, 18 Oct 7, 14, 18, 27 Feb 2, 5, 8, 9, 12, 14, Nov 3, 8, 13, 18 19, 23 Mar 2, 4, 7, 11, 16, 22, 24, 26 Apr 6, 8, 14, 25 May 2
PRE PAID ATTRACTIONS • Haggis Ceremony & Gift • Larnach Castle* • Milford Sound Cruise & Lunch • Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw • Lakes District Museum • TranzAlpine Rail Journey • Cruise on the Interislander Ferry • Te Papa, NZ’s National Museum • Skyline Rotorua Gondola & Luge Ride • Agrodome • Thermal mud pools & geysers* • Traditional Maori Hangi & Concert • Dolphin / Hole in the Rock Cruise • Kauri Museum* • City sights tour of Christchurch, Dunedin, Wellington & Auckland *Guided tour is included with 1 guide per 24 travellers.
ITINERARY (B) Breakfast. (L) Lunch. (D) Dinner. (SD) Specialty Dinner.
ALL INCLUSIVE tour price Fully escorted tour includes modern coach travel, 3.5 star hotel accommodation, most meals, sightseeing & attractions.
DAY 1: Arrive Christchurch (D) On arrival into Christchurch you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. Hotel Quality Hotel Elms or similar
NZ$
Twin share, per person Single supplement
$5899 $1770
Stay a little longer City Twin share Single Christchurch $120 $240 Auckland $150 $300 Extra night rates are per person and based on room only. Subject to availability.
16 Day SOLO Travellers Highlights Tour >> Fully escorted tour includes GO GUARANTEED single room SOLO hotel accommodation. Refer to pages 60 - 61 for full itinerary.
46
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
MEALS 15 cooked breakfasts including a specialty breakfast: Stratosfare Restaurant, Rotorua • 12 sumptuous dinners including 3 specialty dinners: Haggis Ceremony, Dunedin; Walter Peak Homestead, Queenstown; Maori Hangi & Concert, Rotorua • 1 picnic lunch • 1 delicious Devonshire Tea: Larnach Castle •
Note: Dinner on Day 1 not included for anyone arriving later than 8pm.
SEASONAL OFFER Save $300 per person on highlighted departure dates.
Land only prices
TOURING Personalised Meet & Greet on arrival • Return airport transfers in New Zealand • Modern coach travel with 2 door access, restroom, reclining seats and panoramic windows • Professional Coach Captain & Tour Guide • 15 nights 3.5 star hotel accommodation • 4 two night stays • Hotel porterage • 4 cruises • All sightseeing and pre paid attractions • Comprehensive documentation pack •
DAY 2: Christchurch - Omarama (B,D) After an introductory city sights tour depart Christchurch and travel through the southern Canterbury Plains to Lake Tekapo. See the brilliant turquoise water, visit The Church of the Good Shepherd and view the Sheep Dog Statue. Marvel at the spectacular mountain ranges including Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. The opportunity is available (time and weather permitting) to enjoy a scenic flight (optional) over the Southern Alps before travelling to Omarama. Hotel Heritage Gateway Hotel DAY 3: Omarama - Dunedin (B,SD) Depart Omarama and see Lake Benmore, before following the Waitaki River to Oamaru, famous for its limestone. Continue south to Dunedin and enjoy a city sights tour followed by some free time. Tonight a Scottish evening will be presented comprising of bagpipes, great food, special Haggis Ceremony and gift. Hotel Mercure Leisure Lodge
ITINERARY DAY 4: Dunedin - Te Anau (B,D) This morning travel out 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. 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 Glow Worm Caves (optional). Hotel Distinction Luxmore Hotel (Superior Room) DAY 5: Te Anau - Milford Sound - Queenstown (B,L) 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 a picnic 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 free and you may choose to dine at one of the many fine restaurants. Hotel Mercure Queenstown Resort (2 nights) DAY 6: Queenstown (Free Day) (B,SD) Today is a free day for you to explore Queenstown at leisure. Your Coach Captain & Tour Guide are available to assist with the many sightseeing options available, including the thrill of a jet boat ride, a heritage tour to Skippers Canyon or get up close to a Kiwi bird. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake
>> TOUR HIGH LIGHT
CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Cruise through the Cook Strait on the Interislander Ferry; experience Maori culture in Rotorua; Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city; the TranzAlpine rail journey.
Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back, relax and enjoy a gourmet barbecue dinner which the chef will prepare in front of you 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. DAY 7: Queenstown - Arrowtown - Fox Glacier (B,D) Travel to Arrowtown and visit the Lakes District Museum. Continue via the Haast Pass to the mighty West Coast. See the snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel north to the township of Fox Glacier. Time is available (weather permitting) to experience a scenic flight (optional) over the spectacular glaciers. Hotel Heartland Hotel Glacier Country or Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier DAY 8: Fox Glacier - Arthur’s Pass - Christchurch (B,D) Travel to Hokitika and visit the Greenstone Factory. Continue into 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 to the elegant city of Christchurch. On arrival your coach will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. Hotel Quality Hotel Elms or similar DAY 9: Christchurch - Picton - Wellington (B,D) Travel along the East Coast to the seaside village of Kaikoura. 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 for your journey through the Marlborough Sounds and across Cook Strait to Wellington. Hotel Ibis Wellington (2 nights)
DAY 10: Wellington (B) A highlight this morning will be time to explore Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum with exhibits that embrace both Maori and European views. 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. DAY 11: Wellington - Taupo - Rotorua (B,D) Depart Wellington and view the snow capped 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. Hotel Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua (2 nights) DAY 12: Rotorua (B,SD) Today begins with a gondola ride and breakfast at the Skyline Rotorua. There is also time for a luge ride! Next stop is Agrodome for an action packed hour of farming entertainment and education that’s unlike anything you’ve seen before. Visit Te Puia to see the boiling mud pools and awesome geysers that Rotorua is famous for. Enjoy some free time this afternoon. This evening experience an entertaining Maori Hangi and Concert. DAY 13: Rotorua - Auckland - Bay of Islands (B,D) This morning depart Rotorua and travel north via Auckland. Continue via Whangarei to Paihia, situated in the heart of the beautiful Bay of Islands. Enjoy an introduction to the Bay of Islands, location of the signing of the treaty between the Maori tribes and the British. Hotel Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge (2 nights) DAY 14: Bay of Islands (B) This morning cruise through the beautiful Bay of Islands on board a luxury catamaran to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. Keep an eye out for bottlenose and common dolphins before
MUST DO OPTIONZ
ROTORUA CITY AND LAKES TOUR Discover Rotorua’s natural native scenery and pristine lakes onboard an Amphibious WWII Landing Craft. Your tour includes a visit to three lakes with a ‘Splashdown’ entry into Lake Tikitapu and Okareka.
SHOTOVER JET Enjoy a jet boat ride in the spectacular Shotover River Canyons, carved out over the ages by a vast volume of fast flowing water. Hold on tight and take a spin in the iconic Big Red for wall to wall action from start to finish.
returning to Paihia for a free afternoon. 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 free and you may like to enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise (optional). DAY 15: Bay of Islands - Auckland (B,D) 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 final dinner with your new found friends. Hotel Rydges Auckland DAY 16: Depart Auckland (B) Time to say goodbye. You’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday. gptnzNOW.com
47
A comprehensive tour of the North and South Islands at an affordable price
Tour code: GPN14
14 Day New Zealand Panorama Tour NO HIDDEN EXTRAS PRE PAID ATTRACTIONS • Haggis Ceremony & Gift • Larnach Castle* • Milford Sound Cruise & Lunch • Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw • Lakes District Museum • TranzAlpine Rail Journey • Cruise on the Interislander Ferry • Te Papa, NZ’s National Museum • Skyline Rotorua Gondola & Luge Ride • Agrodome • Thermal mud pools & geysers* • Traditional Maori Hangi & Concert • City sights tour of Christchurch, Dunedin & Wellington GUARANTEED departures 2019 2020 Sep 10, 19, 26 Jan 8, 18 Oct 7, 14, 18, 27 Feb 2, 5, 8, 12, 14, Nov 3, 8, 13, 18 19, 23 Mar 2, 4, 7, 11, 16, 22, 24, 26 Apr 6, 8, 14, 25 May 2 SEASONAL OFFER Save $250 per person on highlighted departure dates.
*Guided tour is included with 1 guide per 24 travellers.
Land only prices
NZ$
Twin share, per person Single supplement
$5139 $1560
Stay a little longer City Twin share Single Christchurch $120 $240 Auckland $150 $300 Extra night rates are per person and based on room only. Subject to availability.
Bay of Islands inclusion Stay an extra 2 nights and >> take in the Bay of Islands. BEST Upgrade to the 16 Day VALUE Highlights of NZ Tour. Refer to pages 46 - 47 for full itinerary.
48
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
MEALS 13 cooked breakfasts including a specialty breakfast: Stratosfare Restaurant, Rotorua • 11 sumptuous dinners including 3 specialty dinners: Haggis Ceremony, Dunedin; Walter Peak Homestead, Queenstown; Maori Hangi & Concert, Rotorua • 1 picnic lunch • 1 delicious Devonshire Tea: Larnach Castle •
Note: Dinner on Day 1 not included for anyone arriving later than 8pm.
ITINERARY (B) Breakfast. (L) Lunch. (D) Dinner. (SD) Specialty Dinner.
ALL INCLUSIVE tour price Fully escorted tour includes modern coach travel, 3.5 star hotel accommodation, most meals, sightseeing & attractions.
TOURING Personalised Meet & Greet on arrival • Return airport transfers in New Zealand • Modern coach travel with 2 door access, restroom, reclining seats and panoramic windows • Professional Coach Captain & Tour Guide • 13 nights 3.5 star hotel accommodation • 3 two night stays • Hotel porterage • 3 cruises • All sightseeing and pre paid attractions • Comprehensive documentation pack •
DAY 1: Arrive Christchurch (D) On arrival into Christchurch you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. Hotel Quality Hotel Elms or similar DAY 2: Christchurch - Omarama (B,D) After an introductory city sights tour depart Christchurch and travel through the southern Canterbury Plains to Lake Tekapo. See the brilliant turquoise water, visit The Church of the Good Shepherd and view the Sheep Dog Statue. Marvel at the spectacular mountain ranges including Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. The opportunity is available (time and weather permitting) to enjoy a scenic flight (optional) over the Southern Alps before travelling to Omarama. Hotel Heritage Gateway Hotel DAY 3: Omarama - Dunedin (B,SD) Depart Omarama and see Lake Benmore, before following the Waitaki River to Oamaru, famous for its limestone. Continue south to Dunedin and enjoy a city sights tour followed by some free time. Tonight a Scottish evening will be presented comprising of bagpipes, great food, special Haggis Ceremony and gift. Hotel Mercure Leisure Lodge
DAY 4: Dunedin - Te Anau (B,D) This morning travel out 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. 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 Glow Worm Caves (optional). Hotel Distinction Luxmore Hotel (Superior Room) DAY 5: Te Anau - Milford Sound - Queenstown (B,L) 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 a picnic 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 free and you may choose to dine at one of the many fine restaurants. Hotel Mercure Queenstown Resort (2 nights) DAY 6: Queenstown (Free Day) (B,SD) Today is a free day for you to explore Queenstown at leisure. Your Coach Captain & Tour Guide are available to assist with the many sightseeing options available, including the thrill of a jet boat ride, a heritage tour to Skippers Canyon or get up close to a Kiwi bird. This evening board the vintage
>> TOUR HIGH LIGHT
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Skyline Rotorua offers spectacular views; Rotorua, the geothermal wonderland of New Zealand; enjoy a Haggis Ceremony in Dunedin; cruise on the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak.
steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back, relax and enjoy a gourmet barbecue dinner which the chef will prepare in front of you 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. DAY 7: Queenstown - Arrowtown - Fox Glacier (B,D) Travel to Arrowtown and visit the Lakes District Museum. Continue via the Haast Pass to the mighty West Coast. See the snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel north to the township of Fox Glacier. Time is available (weather permitting) to experience a scenic flight (optional) over the spectacular glaciers. Hotel Heartland Hotel Glacier Country or Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier DAY 8: Fox Glacier - Arthur’s Pass - Christchurch (B,D) Travel to Hokitika and visit the Greenstone Factory. Continue into 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 to the elegant city of Christchurch. On arrival your coach will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. Hotel Quality Hotel Elms or similar
DAY 9: Christchurch - Picton - Wellington (B,D) Travel along the East Coast to the seaside village of Kaikoura. 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 for your journey through the Marlborough Sounds and across Cook Strait to Wellington. Hotel Ibis Wellington (2 nights) DAY 10: Wellington (B) A highlight this morning will be time to explore Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum with exhibits that embrace both Maori and European views. 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. DAY 11: Wellington - Taupo - Rotorua (B,D) Depart Wellington and view the snow capped 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. Hotel Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua (2 nights) DAY 12: Rotorua (B,SD) Today begins with a gondola ride and breakfast at the Skyline Rotorua. There is also time for a luge ride! Next stop is Agrodome for an action packed
hour of farming entertainment and education that’s unlike anything you’ve seen before. Visit Te Puia to see the boiling mud pools and awesome geysers that Rotorua is famous for. Enjoy some free time this afternoon. This evening experience an entertaining Maori Hangi and Concert. DAY 13: Rotorua - Auckland (B,D) Depart Rotorua and travel north to Auckland to enjoy an afternoon at leisure to discover the ‘City of Sails’. This evening enjoy dinner at your hotel. Hotel Rydges Auckland DAY 14: Depart Auckland (B) Time to say goodbye. You’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.
MUST DO OPTION MILFORD SOUND FLY BACK TO QUEENSTOWN Why not travel from Milford Sound to Queenstown by air on a scenic flight. See the magnificent views of the mountains, glaciers, lakes and forests of the Fiordland National Park.
gptnzNOW.com
49
Showcases the breathtaking South Island’s scenic wonders
Tour code: GPN9
9 Day Taste of the South Island NO HIDDEN EXTRAS PRE PAID ATTRACTIONS • Haggis Ceremony & Gift • Larnach Castle* • Milford Sound Cruise & Lunch • Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw • Lakes District Museum • TranzAlpine Rail Journey • City sights tour of Christchurch & Dunedin *Guided tour is included with 1 guide per 24 travellers.
TOURING Personalised Meet & Greet on arrival • Return airport transfers in New Zealand • Modern coach travel with 2 door access, restroom, reclining seats and panoramic windows • Professional Coach Captain & Tour Guide • 8 nights 3.5 star hotel accommodation • 1 two night stay: Queenstown • Hotel porterage • 2 cruises • All sightseeing and pre paid attractions • Comprehensive documentation pack •
MEALS 8 cooked breakfasts • 7 sumptuous dinners including 2 specialty dinners: Haggis Ceremony, Dunedin; Walter Peak Homestead, Queenstown • 1 picnic lunch • 1 delicious Devonshire Tea: Larnach Castle •
GUARANTEED departures 2019 2020 Sep 10, 19, 26 Jan 8, 18 Oct 7, 14, 18, 27 Feb 2, 5, 8, 12, 14, Nov 3, 8, 13, 18 19, 23 Mar 2, 4, 7, 11, 16, 22, 24, 26 Apr 6, 8, 14, 25 May 2 SEASONAL OFFER Save $200 per person on highlighted departure dates. ALL INCLUSIVE tour price Fully escorted tour includes modern coach travel, 3.5 star hotel accommodation, most meals, sightseeing & attractions. Land only prices
NZ$
Twin share, per person Single supplement
$3699 $990
Stay a little longer City Twin share Single Christchurch $120 $240 Extra night rates are per person and based on room only. Subject to availability.
Note: Dinner on Day 1 not included for anyone arriving later than 8pm.
ITINERARY (B) Breakfast. (L) Lunch. (D) Dinner. (SD) Specialty Dinner.
DAY 1: Arrive Christchurch (D) On arrival into Christchurch you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. Hotel Quality Hotel Elms or similar DAY 2: Christchurch - Omarama (B,D) After an introductory city sights tour depart Christchurch and travel through the southern Canterbury Plains to Lake Tekapo. See the brilliant turquoise water, visit The Church of the Good Shepherd and view the Sheep Dog Statue. Marvel at the spectacular mountain ranges including Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. The opportunity is available (time and weather permitting) to enjoy a scenic flight (optional) over the Southern Alps before travelling to Omarama. Hotel Heritage Gateway Hotel DAY 3: Omarama - Dunedin (B,SD) Depart Omarama and see Lake Benmore, before following the Waitaki River to Oamaru, famous for its limestone. Continue south to Dunedin and enjoy a city sights tour followed by some free time. Tonight a Scottish evening will be presented comprising of bagpipes, great food, special Haggis Ceremony and gift. Hotel Mercure Leisure Lodge
The face of Christchurch is ever changing.
50
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
DAY 4: Dunedin - Te Anau (B,D) This morning travel out 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. 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 Glow Worm Caves (optional). Hotel Distinction Luxmore Hotel (Superior Room) DAY 5: Te Anau - Milford Sound - Queenstown (B,L) 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 a picnic 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 free and you may choose to dine at one of the many fine restaurants. Hotel Mercure Queenstown Resort (2 nights) DAY 6: Queenstown (Free Day) (B,SD) Today is a free day for you to explore Queenstown at leisure. Your Coach Captain and Tour Guide are available to assist with the many sightseeing options available, including the thrill of a jet boat ride, a heritage tour to Skippers Canyon or to get up close to a Kiwi bird. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across
>> TOUR HIGH LIGHT
Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back, relax and enjoy a gourmet barbecue dinner which the chef will prepare in front of you 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. DAY 7: Queenstown - Arrowtown - Fox Glacier (B,D) Travel to Arrowtown, an old gold mining village where you will visit the Lakes District Museum. Continue via the Haast Pass to the mighty 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. Time is available (weather permitting) to experience a scenic flight (optional) over the spectacular glaciers. Hotel Heartland Hotel Glacier Country or Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
DAY 8: Fox Glacier - Arthur’s Pass - Christchurch (B,D) Travel to Hokitika and visit the Greenstone Factory. Continue into 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 to the elegant city of Christchurch. On arrival your coach will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. Hotel Quality Hotel Elms or similar DAY 9: Depart Christchurch (B) Time to say goodbye. You’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday. CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Cruise on the TSS Earnslaw across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak; the TranzAlpine rail journey; the Church of the Good Shepherd, a landmark of the MacKenzie region; the Milford Sound cruise will be a highlight of your South Island tour; Christchurch, also known as the Garden City.
MUST DO OPTIONZ SKYLINE QUEENSTOWN Take in the stunning views as you ride the Skyline Queenstown Gondola, the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere and one of the must-do activities in Queenstown!
KIWI BIRDLIFE PARK In the heart of Queenstown there is an opportunity to see a real life Kiwi as well as over twenty other kinds of endangered New Zealand native birds and reptiles.
FIORDLAND CINEMA No visit to Fiordland is complete without taking in the breathtaking film, ‘Ata Whenua - Shadowland’. Screened in a purpose-built theatre, you will take an unforgettable journey.
gptnzNOW.com
51
Explore the North Island’s iconic attractions and geothermal hotspots
Tour code: GPN8
8 Day Taste of the North Island NO HIDDEN EXTRAS PRE PAID ATTRACTIONS • Te Papa, NZ’s National Museum • Skyline Rotorua Gondola & Luge Ride • Agrodome • Thermal mud pools & geysers* • Traditional Maori Hangi & Concert • Dolphin / Hole in the Rock Cruise • Kauri Museum* • City sights tour of Wellington & Auckland *Guided tour is included with 1 guide per 24 travellers.
TOURING Personalised Meet & Greet on arrival • Return airport transfers in New Zealand • Modern coach travel with 2 door access, restroom, reclining seats and panoramic windows • Professional Coach Captain & Tour Guide • 7 nights 3.5 star hotel accommodation • 3 two night stays • Hotel porterage • 1 cruise • All sightseeing and pre paid attractions • Comprehensive documentation pack •
MEALS 7 cooked breakfasts including a specialty breakfast: Stratosfare Restaurant, Rotorua • 5 sumptuous dinners including 1 specialty dinner: Maori Hangi & Concert, Rotorua •
GUARANTEED departures 2019 2020 Sep 18, 27 Jan 16, 26 Oct 4, 15, 22, 26 Feb 10, 13, 16, 20, 22, Nov 4, 11, 16, 21, 27 26 Mar 2, 10, 12, 15, 19, 24, 30 Apr 1, 3, 14, 16, 22 May 3, 10 SEASONAL OFFER Save $200 per person on highlighted departure dates. ALL INCLUSIVE tour price Fully escorted tour includes modern coach travel, 3.5 star hotel accommodation, most meals, sightseeing & attractions. Land only prices
NZ$
Twin share, per person Single supplement
$3099 $860
Stay a little longer City Twin share Single Wellington $125 $250 Auckland $150 $300 Extra night rates are per person and based on room only. Subject to availability.
Note: Dinner on Day 1 not included for anyone arriving later than 8pm.
ITINERARY (B) Breakfast. (L) Lunch. (D) Dinner. (SD) Specialty Dinner.
DAY 1: Arrive Wellington (D) On arrival into Wellington you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative who will transfer you to your hotel. Hotel Ibis Wellington (2 nights) DAY 2: Wellington (B) A highlight this morning will be time to explore Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum with exhibits that embrace both Maori and European views. 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. DAY 3: Wellington - Taupo - Rotorua (B,D) Depart Wellington and view the snow capped 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. Hotel Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua (2 nights) DAY 4: Rotorua (B,SD) Today begins with a gondola ride and a buffet breakfast at the Skyline Rotorua, offering spectacular views. There is also time for a thrilling luge ride! Next stop is Agrodome for an action packed hour of farming entertainment and education that’s unlike anything you’ve seen before. Visit Te Puia to see the boiling mud pools and awesome geysers that Rotorua is famous for. Enjoy some free time this afternoon. This evening experience an entertaining Maori Hangi and Concert.
Take time to explore Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum.
52
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
DAY 5: Rotorua - Auckland - Bay Of Islands (B,D) Depart Rotorua and travel via Auckland. Continue to Paihia, situated in the heart of the beautiful Bay of Islands. Enjoy an introduction to the Bay of Islands, location of the signing of the treaty between the Maori tribes and the British. Hotel Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge (2 nights) DAY 6: Bay of Islands (B) This morning cruise through the beautiful Bay of Islands on board a luxury catamaran to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. Keep an eye out for bottlenose and common dolphins before returning via Russell to Paihia for a free afternoon. Choose from the many optional activities available, including a tour of historic Russell, a classic sail on a tall ship or a spectacular scenic flight. This evening is also free and you may like to enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise (optional). DAY 7: Bay of Islands - Auckland (B,D) 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 final dinner with your new found friends. Hotel Rydges Auckland DAY 8: Depart Auckland (B) Time to say goodbye. You’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday. CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: View thermal mud pools and geysers at Te Puia; enjoy an educational farm show at Agrodome; the Sky Tower is one of Auckland’s landmarks; experience a traditional Maori welcome and concert.
MUST DO OPTIONZ Polynesian Spa Whilst in Rotorua why not take the opportunity to relax in hot mineral spring pools at the Polynesian Spa, New Zealand’s leading international spa. Choose from 27 hot pools and enjoy views over Lake Rotorua.
RUSSELL MINI TOUR There is no better way to explore the historic sights of Russell than on a one-hour tour. Visit area’s not easily accessible on foot. A highlight is the 360 degree views from Flagstaff Hill.
Bay of Islands Helicopter Flight Fly by helicopter over the crystal clear turquoise waters over the Bay of Islands to the ‘Hole in the Rock’. From up above you will explore the townships of Russell, Paihia and Waitangi.
>> TOUR HIGH LIGHT
gptnzNOW.com
53
New Zealand
COACH HOLIDAY SPECIALIST
“The Festive Season Tour provided the perfect opportunity to travel over the Christmas and New Year period. It has been a wonderful experience from start to finish. I would not hesitate to recommend touring with Grand Pacific Tours. Well done!” R. G. - Past traveller
54
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
Innovative holidays Like-minded travellers UNIQUE EXPERIENCES
Special Interest Tours Let your interests take you on a journey
W
hether you are travelling solo; enjoy the thrill of aviation; are looking for a festive getaway; want a tour that complements an existing passion or perhaps inspire a new one, we’ve got it covered! Festive Season Tours Enjoy delicious food, spend time with new friends and create unique memories. A 17 Day itinerary visiting both islands is available, as well as an 11 Day itinerary exploring the South Island.
Solo Travellers Tours No travel partner? No worries! Designed for those who travel SOLO, but want the convenience and value of group travel. The 16 Day itinerary visiting both islands is available.
Warbirds Over Wanaka International Airshow - Easter 2020 NZ’s biggest aviation event. Tour New Zealand and enjoy three days of incredible entertainment with a Gold Pass to this thrilling airshow. Brochure out March 2019.
gptnzNOW.com
55
Enjoy the Festive Season Kiwi style on this fully escorted tour
Tour code: GPNX17
17 Day Festive Season Tour NO HIDDEN EXTRAS PRE PAID ATTRACTIONS • Christchurch Tram • Haggis Ceremony & Gift • Larnach Castle* • Milford Sound Cruise & Lunch • Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw • Lakes District Museum • TranzAlpine Rail Journey • Cruise on the Interislander Ferry • Te Papa, NZ’s National Museum • Skyline Rotorua Gondola & Luge Ride • Agrodome • Thermal mud pools & geysers* • Traditional Maori Hangi & Concert • Dolphin / Hole in the Rock Cruise • Kauri Museum* • City sights tour of Christchurch, Dunedin, Wellington & Auckland
GUARANTEED departure 2019 Dec 19
*Guided tour is included with 1 guide per 24 travellers.
ALL INCLUSIVE tour price Fully escorted tour includes modern coach travel, 3.5 star hotel accommodation, most meals, sightseeing & attractions. Land only prices
NZ$
Twin share, per person Single supplement
$6369 $1850
Extra night rates are per person and based on room only. Subject to availability.
Ultimate Small Group Festive Season & New Year Tours If you prefer a little luxury and wish to travel in a small group, then the 11 Day Ultimate Christmas Tour on page 30 or the 11 Day Ultimate New Year Escape on page 31 might be what you’re after. >> ULTIMATE FESTIVE UPGRADE
ITINERARY DAY 1: Arrive Christchurch (D) On arrival into Christchurch you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening meet your travelling companions. Hotel Quality Hotel Elms (2 nights) DAY 2: Christchurch (Free Day) (B,D) Today is a free day to explore Christchurch. Enjoy a journey on board the Christchurch Tram at your leisure, one of Christchurch’s leading attractions. DAY 3: Christchurch - Omarama (B,D) After an introductory city sights tour depart Christchurch and travel through the southern Canterbury Plains to Lake Tekapo. See the brilliant turquoise water, visit The Church of the Good Shepherd and view the Sheep Dog Statue. Marvel at the spectacular mountain ranges including Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. The opportunity is available (time and weather permitting) to enjoy a scenic flight (optional) over the Southern Alps before travelling to Omarama. Hotel Heritage Gateway Hotel DAY 4: Omarama - Dunedin (B,SD) Depart Omarama and see Lake Benmore, before following the Waitaki River to Oamaru, famous for its limestone. Continue south to Dunedin and enjoy a city sights tour followed by some free
Skyline Rotorua offers spectacular views.
56
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
MEALS 16 cooked breakfasts including a specialty breakfast: Stratosfare Restaurant, Rotorua • 13 sumptuous dinners including 2 specialty dinners: Haggis Ceremony, Dunedin; Maori Hangi & Concert, Rotorua • Christmas Day Lunch: Walter Peak Homestead, Queenstown • 1 picnic lunch • 1 delicious Devonshire Tea: Larnach Castle •
Note: Dinner on Day 1 not included for anyone arriving later than 8pm.
(B) Breakfast. (L) Lunch. (D) Dinner. (SD) Specialty Dinner.
Stay a little longer City Twin share Single Christchurch $120 $240 Auckland $150 $300
TOURING Personalised Meet & Greet on arrival • Return airport transfers in New Zealand • Modern coach travel with 2 door access, restroom, reclining seats and panoramic windows • Professional Coach Captain & Tour Guide • 16 nights 3.5 star hotel accommodation • 5 two night stays • Hotel porterage • 4 cruises • All sightseeing and pre paid attractions • Comprehensive documentation pack •
time. Tonight a Scottish evening will be presented comprising of bagpipes, great food, special Haggis Ceremony and gift. Hotel Mercure Leisure Lodge DAY 5: Dunedin - Te Anau (B,D) This morning travel out 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. 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 Glow Worm Caves (optional). Hotel Distinction Luxmore Hotel (Superior Room) DAY 6: Te Anau - Milford Sound - Queenstown (B,L,D) 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 a picnic 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. Hotel Mercure Queenstown Resort (2 nights)
DAY 7: Queenstown - Christmas Day (B,L) Merry Christmas! Today board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Enjoy a gourmet Christmas lunch and the best of NZ’s high country cuisine in the Colonel’s Homestead. Reboard the TSS Earnslaw and enjoy a sing along by the piano on your return cruise to Queenstown. This evening is free and you may choose to dine at one of the many fine restaurants. DAY 8: Queenstown - Arrowtown - Fox Glacier (B,D) Travel to Arrowtown and visit the Lakes District Museum. Continue via the Haast Pass to the mighty 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. Time is available (weather permitting) to experience a scenic flight (optional) over the spectacular glaciers. Hotel Heartland Hotel Glacier Country DAY 9: Fox Glacier - Arthur’s Pass - Christchurch (B,D) Travel to Hokitika and visit the Greenstone Factory. Continue into 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 to the elegant city of Christchurch. On arrival your coach will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. Hotel Quality Hotel Elms DAY 10: Christchurch - Picton - Wellington (B,D) Travel along the East Coast to the seaside village of Kaikoura. 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 for your journey through the Marlborough Sounds and across Cook Strait to Wellington. Hotel Ibis Wellington (2 nights) DAY 11: Wellington (B) A highlight this morning will be time to explore Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum with exhibits that embrace both Maori and European views. 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. DAY 12: Wellington - Taupo - Rotorua (B,D) Depart Wellington and view the snow capped 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. Hotel Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua (2 nights)
DAY 13: Rotorua - New Year’s Eve (B,SD) Today begins with a gondola ride and breakfast at the Skyline Rotorua. There is also time for a luge ride! Next stop is Agrodome for an action packed hour of farming entertainment and education that’s unlike anything you’ve seen before. Visit Te Puia to see the boiling mud pools and awesome geysers that Rotorua is famous for. Enjoy some free time this afternoon, then see in the New Year at an entertaining Maori Hangi and Concert. DAY 14: Rotorua - Bay of Islands (B,D) This morning depart Rotorua and travel north via Auckland. Continue via Whangarei to Paihia, situated in the heart of the beautiful Bay of Islands. Enjoy an introduction to the Bay of Islands, location of the signing of the treaty between the Maori tribes and the British. Hotel Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge (2 nights) DAY 15: Bay of Islands (B) This morning cruise through the beautiful Bay of Islands on board a luxury catamaran to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. Keep an eye out for bottlenose and common dolphins before returning to Paihia for a free afternoon. 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 free and you may like to enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise (optional).
>> TOUR HIGH LIGHT
>> XMAS DAY CRUISE & LUNCH
DAY 16: Bay of Islands - Auckland (B,D) Depart the Bay of Islands 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 tour. This evening enjoy a final dinner with your new found friends. Hotel Rydges Auckland DAY 17: Depart Auckland (B) Time to say goodbye. You’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.
MUST DO OPTIONZ
GRAND TRAVERSE OF MT COOK A flight of Mt Cook and glaciers is one of the must do flight-seeing experiences in New Zealand. From your guaranteed window seat you will marvel at the dramatic scenery.
DISCOVER KERI KERI Kerikeri, where you can hear about New Zealand’s earliest European history, known for its fresh local produce and where you can taste quality wine and chocolates. TOP TO BOTTOM: The TranzAlpine rail journey; enjoy Christmas lunch with all the trimmings at the Walter Peak Homestead; witness geothermal acitivity in Rotorua; travel with like-minded people.
gptnzNOW.com
57
Featuring Milford Sound Overnight Cruise on Christmas Day
Tour code: GPX11
11 Day Festive South Island Tour NO HIDDEN EXTRAS
Ashburton
Pukerangi
Otago Peninsula
PRE PAID ATTRACTIONS • International Antarctic Centre • Christchurch Tram • TranzAlpine Rail Journey • Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw • HIGHLIGHT Milford Sound Overnight Cruise • Taieri Gorge Limited Rail Journey • Larnach Castle* • Haggis Ceremony & Gift • Olveston Historic Home* • City sights tour of Christchurch & Dunedin *Guided tour is included with 1 guide per 24 travellers.
TOURING Personalised Meet & Greet on arrival • Return airport transfers in New Zealand • Modern coach travel with 2 door access, restroom, reclining seats and panoramic windows • Professional Coach Captain & Tour Guide • 9 nights 4 star hotel accommodation •
GUARANTEED departure 2019 Dec 20 ALL INCLUSIVE tour price Fully escorted tour includes modern coach travel, 4 star hotel accommodation, most meals, sightseeing & attractions. Land only prices
NZ$
Twin share, per person Single supplement
$5199 $1650
Stay a little longer City Twin share Single Christchurch $135 $270 Extra night rates are per person and based on room only. Subject to availability.
Ultimate Small Group Festive Season & New Year Tours If you prefer a little luxury and wish to travel in a small group, then the 11 Day Ultimate Christmas Tour on page 30 or the 11 Day Ultimate New Year Escape on page 31 might be what you’re after. >> ULTIMATE FESTIVE UPGRADE
Olveston Historic Home contains treasures from a bygone era.
58
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
Milford Sound Overnight Cruise 3 two night stays • Hotel porterage • 2 rail journeys • 1 cruise • All sightseeing and pre paid attractions • Comprehensive documentation pack • •
MEALS 10 cooked breakfasts • 8 sumptuous dinners including 4 specialty dinners: Walter Peak Homestead, Queenstown; Christmas Dinner, Milford Mariner; Haggis Ceremony, Dunedin; Farewell Dinner, Christchurch • 1 delicious Devonshire Tea: Larnach Castle •
Note: Dinner on Day 1 not included for anyone arriving later than 8pm.
ITINERARY (B) Breakfast. (L) Lunch. (D) Dinner. (SD) Specialty Dinner.
DAY 1: Arrive Christchurch (D) On arrival into Christchurch you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. Hotel Distinction Christchurch (2 nights) DAY 2: Christchurch (B) 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 your leisure, one of Christchurch’s leading attractions. This evening is free to explore the local cuisine. DAY 3: Christchurch - Arthur’s Pass - Franz Josef (B,D) This morning board the TranzAlpine, 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. Hotel Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier (Douglas Wing)
DAY 4: Franz Josef - Queenstown (B) 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. Hotel Copthorne Hotel and Resort Lakefront (2 nights) DAY 5: Queenstown (Free Day) (B,SD) Today is a free day for you to explore Queenstown. Your Tour Guide and Coach Captain are available to assist with the many options available. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back, relax and enjoy a gourmet barbecue dinner which the chef will prepare in front of you at the Colonel’s Homestead. After dinner enjoy a short farm tour then reboard the TSS Earnslaw for a sing along by the piano on your return cruise. DAY 6: Queenstown - Milford Sound Overnight Cruise (B,D) Merry Christmas! This morning take in the stunning scenery and lakeside vistas as the road winds around Lake Wakatipu. Enjoy a short stop in the picturesque township of Te Anau before travelling into the Fiordland National Park to Milford Sound. 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. This evening enjoy a delicious Christmas dinner with all the trimmings prepared by the onboard chef. Overnight Milford Mariner
DAY 7: Milford Sound - Te Anau (B,D) Start the day with a hearty breakfast before heading back out to the Tasman Sea (weather permitting) to explore more of the fiord. Return back 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 Glow Worm Caves (optional). Hotel Distinction Luxmore (Deluxe Room)
>> TOUR HIGH LIGHT
DAY 8: Te Anau - Dunedin (B,D) Travel via Gore and Balclutha to Pukerangi to board The Taieri Gorge Limited for a journey through spectacular scenery only accessible by rail. On arrival at Dunedin’s historic Edwardian Railway Station your coach will transfer you to the hotel. Hotel Scenic Hotel Southern Cross (2 nights) DAY 9: Dunedin (B,SD) 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 the city for an informative city tour followed by some free time. You might be interested in a tour of Speights Brewery (optional) or to see wildlife in their natural habitat (optional Tonight a Scottish evening will be presented comprising of bagpipes, great food, Haggis Ceremony and gift. DAY 10: Dunedin - Christchurch (B,SD) This morning visit Olveston, a prosperous merchants’ home from the turn of the century before travelling to Oamaru, famous for its limestone. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner with your new found friends. Hotel Sudima Hotel Christchurch Airport DAY 11: Depart Christchurch (B) Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.
MUST DO OPTIONZ
NEVE DISCOVERER A chopper flight over the rugged South Island terrain is the only way to view the constantly moving Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers. Touch down on the snowy glacial plains and inhale mountain air.
SPEIGHT’S BREWERY See over 141 years of brewing history as a guide takes you through an interactive brewery tour focusing on the history of this Dunedin icon. TOP TO BOTTOM: Board the Milford Mariner for an amazing overnight cruise; the Christchurch Tram is one of the city’s leading attractions; Dunedin’s Edwardian Railway Station; enjoy time to wander this garden of International Significance at Larnach Castle; vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw.
gptnzNOW.com
59
Enjoy all the key icons on a fully escorted tour designed for the SOLO traveller
Tour code: GPNSG16
16 Day SOLO Travellers Highlights Tour NO HIDDEN EXTRAS PRE PAID ATTRACTIONS • Welcome Drink • Haggis Ceremony & Gift • Larnach Castle* • Milford Sound Cruise & Lunch • Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw • Lakes District Museum • TranzAlpine Rail Journey • Cruise on the Interislander Ferry • Te Papa, NZ’s National Museum • Skyline Rotorua Gondola & Luge Ride • Agrodome • Thermal mud pools & geysers* • Traditional Maori Hangi & Concert • Dolphin / Hole in the Rock Cruise • Kauri Museum* • City sights tour of Christchurch, Dunedin, Wellington & Auckland
GUARANTEED departures 2019 2020 Oct 25 Feb 21 Nov 6 Mar 14
*Guided tour is included with 1 guide per 24 travellers.
ALL INCLUSIVE tour price GUARANTEED SINGLE ROOM Fully escorted tour includes modern coach travel, 3.5 star hotel accommodation, most meals, sightseeing & attractions. Land only prices
NZ$
GUARANTEED Single Room
$7669
Share a room and SAVE $1770 Twin share with another single traveller of the same gender and save $1770 per person off the above tour price. Stay a little longer City Twin share Single Christchurch $120 $240 Auckland $150 $300 Extra night rates are per person and based on room only. Subject to availability.
>> ULTIMATE SOLO UPGRADE
11 Day Ultimate SOLO Travellers Tour If you prefer a little luxury and wish to travel in a small group. Refer to page 29 for full itinerary. Social Network Connect via Facebook with your fellow travellers. Receive your invitation at time of booking.
60
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
TOURING Personalised Meet & Greet on arrival • Return airport transfers in New Zealand • Modern coach travel with 2 door access, restroom, reclining seats and panoramic windows • Professional Coach Captain & Tour Guide • 15 nights 3.5 star hotel accommodation • 4 two night stays • Hotel porterage • 4 cruises • All sightseeing and pre paid attractions • Comprehensive documentation pack •
MEALS 15 cooked breakfasts including a specialty breakfast: Stratosfare Restaurant, Rotorua • 12 sumptuous dinners including 4 specialty dinners: Welcome Dinner, Christchurch; Haggis Ceremony, Dunedin; Walter Peak Homestead, Queenstown; Maori Hangi & Concert, Rotorua; • 1 picnic lunch • 1 delicious Devonshire Tea: Larnach Castle •
Note: Dinner on Day 1 not included for anyone arriving later than 8pm.
ITINERARY (B) Breakfast. (L) Lunch. (D) Dinner. (SD) Specialty Dinner.
DAY 1: Arrive Christchurch (SD) On arrival into Christchurch you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative who will transfer you to your hotel. This evening meet your travelling companions for a pre dinner drink followed by a welcome dinner. Hotel Quality Hotel Elms DAY 2: Christchurch - Omarama (B,D) After an introductory city sights tour depart Christchurch and travel through the southern Canterbury Plains to Lake Tekapo. See the brilliant turquoise water, visit The Church of the Good Shepherd and view the Sheep Dog Statue. Marvel at the spectacular mountain ranges including Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. The opportunity is available (time and weather permitting) to enjoy a scenic flight (optional) over the Southern Alps before travelling to Omarama. Hotel Heritage Gateway Hotel DAY 3: Omarama - Dunedin (B,SD) Depart Omarama and see Lake Benmore, before following the Waitaki River to Oamaru, famous for its limestone. Continue south to Dunedin and enjoy a city sights tour followed by some free time. Tonight a Scottish evening will be presented comprising of bagpipes, great food, special Haggis Ceremony and gift. Hotel Mercure Leisure Lodge
DAY 4: Dunedin - Te Anau (B,D) This morning travel out 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. Farewell Dunedin and travel through Balclutha and Gore to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland and your overnight stay. Tonight you may like to visit the Te Anau Glow Worm Caves (optional). Hotel Distinction Luxmore Hotel (Superior Room) DAY 5: Te Anau - Milford Sound - Queenstown (B,L) 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 a picnic 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 free and you may choose to dine at one of the many fine restaurants. Hotel Mercure Queenstown Resort (2 nights) DAY 6: Queenstown (Free Day) (B,SD) Today is a free day for you to explore Queenstown at leisure. Your Coach Captain and Tour Guide are available to assist with the many sightseeing options available, including the thrill of a jet boat ride, a heritage tour to Skippers Canyon or get up close to a Kiwi bird. This evening board the vintage
steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back, relax and enjoy a gourmet barbecue dinner which the chef will prepare in front of you 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. DAY 7: Queenstown - Arrowtown - Fox Glacier (B,D) Travel to Arrowtown and visit the Lakes District Museum. Continue via the Haast Pass to the mighty West Coast. See the snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel north to the township of Fox Glacier. Time is available (weather permitting) to experience a scenic flight (optional) over the spectacular glaciers. Hotel Heartland Hotel Glacier Country or Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier DAY 8: Fox Glacier - Arthur’s Pass - Christchurch (B,D) Travel to Hokitika and visit the Greenstone Factory. Continue into 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 to the elegant city of Christchurch. On arrival your coach will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. Hotel Quality Hotel Elms DAY 9: Christchurch - Picton - Wellington (B,D) Travel along the East Coast to the seaside village of Kaikoura. 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 for your journey through the Marlborough Sounds and across Cook Strait to Wellington. Hotel Ibis Wellington (2 nights) DAY 10: Wellington (B) A highlight this morning will be time to explore Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum with exhibits that embrace both Maori and European views. 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. DAY 11: Wellington - Taupo - Rotorua (B,D) Depart Wellington and view the snow capped 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. Hotel Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua (2 nights) DAY 12: Rotorua (B,SD) Today begins with a gondola ride and breakfast at the Skyline Rotorua. There is also time for a luge ride! Next stop is Agrodome for an action packed hour of farming entertainment and education
MUST DO OPTIONZ
KJET Board the ‘Big Yellow’ Kjet boat and tear out of the beautiful Queenstown Bay across to Lake Wakatipu for an unforgettable experience along two of NZ’s most scenic and action-packed rivers of the Shotover and Kawarau.
DARRYL’S DINNER CRUISE Enjoy a gentle meander up the Waitangi River, viewing historical points of interest, local birdlife and the thundering Haruru Falls, whilst enjoying freshly prepared local cuisine.
>> TOUR HIGH LIGHT
that’s unlike anything you’ve seen before. Visit Te Puia to see the boiling mud pools and awesome geysers that Rotorua is famous for. Enjoy some free time this afternoon. This evening experience an entertaining Maori Hangi and Concert. DAY 13: Rotorua - Auckland - Bay of Islands (B,D) This morning depart Rotorua and travel north via Auckland to the Parry Kauri Park to see a magnificent example of a Kauri Tree. Continue via Whangarei to Paihia, situated in the heart of the beautiful Bay of Islands. Enjoy an introduction to the Bay of Islands, location of the signing of the treaty between the Maori tribes and the British. Hotel Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge (2 nights) DAY 14: Bay of Islands (B) This morning cruise through the beautiful Bay of Islands on board a luxury catamaran to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. Keep an eye out for bottlenose and common dolphins before returning to Paihia for a free afternoon. 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 free and you may like to enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise (optional). DAY 15: Bay of Islands - Auckland (B,D) 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 final dinner with your new found friends. Hotel Rydges Auckland DAY 16: Depart Auckland (B) Time to say goodbye. You’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday. TOP TO BOTTOM: Cruise the turquoise waters of the Bay of Islands; board the TranzAlpine for a scenic rail journey; the Church of the Good Shepherd; the Cable Car is one of Wellington’s oldest attractions.
gptnzNOW.com
61
New Zealand
COACH HOLIDAY SPECIALIST
“Couldn’t have wished for more - gobsmacking scenery, wonderful friendly people, GREAT weather.! WOW!” B. G. - Past traveller
62
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
Fully escorted Complete NZ Experience ICONIC ATTRACTIONS
Cruise & Coach Tours Discover New Zealand by sea and land
G
rand Pacific Tours and Celebrity Cruises present this exclusive opportunity to discover New Zealand by Cruise and Coach. Fully escorted from start to finish, giving you the complete New Zealand experience. CELEBRITY SOLSTICE CRUISE + SCENIC COACH TOUR The luxurious Celebrity Solstice offers you more than you ever imagined, from an upper deck of lush, natural grass to chic restaurants and lounges. This sophisticated cruise ship allows you to do as much or as little as you choose while providing attentive service that is second to none. See sights and iconic locations not visited on the cruise in the comfort of a modern coach. Traverse the roads in the safe hands of your professional Coach Captain and experience a range of wonderful attractions and stay in 4 star hotel accommodation. 21 Day NZ Vista by Cruise & Coach Enjoy a 10 night cruise combined with a coach tour including the picturesque Bay of Islands. 23 Day Best of NZ by Cruise & Coach Featuring a relaxing 12 night ocean cruise combined with modern coach travel. 23 Day Best of NZ by Coach & Cruise Experience New Zealand by Coach and on a relaxing ocean cruise. 23 Day QLD & NZ Gems by Cruise & Coach 12 night cruise of the stunning Australian Coast combined with a New Zealand coach tour
gptnzNOW.com
63
OVERVIEW OF ITINERARIES
Port of departure Ports of call Cruise route
Port of departure Ports of call Cruise route
Hokianga Matakohe
Hokianga Matakohe
Whangarei
Hamilton
5 tour options Fully escorted
E
xperience a holiday like no other! Combine an ocean cruise aboard the Celebrity Solstice with a scenic coach tour of New Zealand. Five fully escorted tours to choose from, giving you the holiday you’ve always dreamed of.
FULLY ESCORTED Tours include one way airfare and taxes. OCEAN CRUISE Deluxe Balcony Cabin onboard the Celebrity Solstice • world-class dining (breakfast, lunch & dinner daily) • awesome entertainment and activities • gratuities on board. COACH TOUR Modern coach travel with a professional Coach Captain • 4 star hotel accommodation • most meals • sightseeing & attractions.
Whangarei
Hamilton
Arthur’s Pass
Arthur’s Pass
21 Day New Zealand Vista by Cruise & Coach
21 Day New Zealand Vista by Cruise & Coach
FROM $9099 PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE* Tour Code: CSGP21
FROM $9099 PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE* Tour Code: CSGP21
GUARANTEED departure 2020 Feb 7
GUARANTEED departure 2020 Feb 29
Day Location 1 Fly to Sydney - Board Celebrity Solstice 2 Cruising 3 Hobart 4 - 5 Cruising 6 Milford, Doubtful & Dusky Sounds 7 Dunedin 8 Akaroa 9 Cruising 10 Tauranga 11 Arrive Auckland - Board Coach 12 - 13 Bay of Islands 14 Auckland 15 - 16 Rotorua 17 Fly to Queenstown 18 Queenstown 19 Franz Josef Glacier 20 Christchurch Fly home 21
Day Location 1 Fly to Melbourne - Board Celebrity Solstice 2 Cruising 3 Sydney 4 - 5 Cruising 6 Milford, Doubtful & Dusky Sounds 7 Dunedin 8 Akaroa 9 Cruising 10 Tauranga 11 Arrive Auckland - Board Coach 12 - 13 Bay of Islands 14 Auckland 15 - 16 Rotorua 17 Fly to Queenstown 18 Queenstown 19 Franz Josef Glacier 20 Christchurch Fly home 21
*Includes internal flight.
*Includes internal flight.
Tours must be booked 150 days prior to departure to guarantee prices 64
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
Hokianga Matakohe
Port of departure Ports of call Cruise route
CAIRNS
Whangarei
AIRLIE BEACH Hamilton
PICTON
BRISBANE NEWCASTLE
Port of departure Ports of call Cruise route
Hokianga Matakohe
BAY OF ISLANDS
Arthur’s Pass
Whangarei
Hamilton
Hamilton
Napier
Arthur’s Pass
Arthur’s Pass
Port of departure Ports of call Cruise route
23 Day Best of New Zealand by Cruise & Coach
23 Day Best of New Zealand by COACH & CRUISE
23 Day QLD & New Zealand Gems by Cruise & Coach
FROM $9599 PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE* Tour Code: CSGP23
FROM $9599 PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE* Tour Code: CSGPR23
FROM $9499 PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE* Tour Code: CSGPQ23
GUARANTEED departure 2019 Oct 27
GUARANTEED departure 2020 Feb 7
GUARANTEED departure 2020 Mar 20
Day Location 1 Fly to Sydney - Board Celebrity Solstice 2 Cruising 3 Hobart 4 - 5 Cruising 6 Milford, Doubtful & Dusky Sounds 7 Dunedin 8 Akaroa 9 Picton 10 Cruising 11 Tauranga 12 Bay of Islands 13 Arrive Auckland - Board coach 14 - 15 Bay of Islands 16 Auckland 17 - 18 Rotorua 19 Fly to Queenstown 20 Queenstown 21 Franz Josef Glacier 22 Christchurch Fly home 23
Day Location 1 Fly to Christchurch 2 Franz Josef Glacier 3 - 4 Queenstown 5 Fly to Auckland 6 - 7 Bay of Islands 8 Auckland 9 - 10 Rotorua 11 Auckland - Board the Celebrity Solstice 12 Bay of Islands 13 Tauranga 14 Cruising 15 Akaroa 16 Dunedin 17 Dusky, Doubtful & Milford Sounds 18 - 19 Cruising 20 - 21 Sydney 22 Cruising Melbourne 23
Day Location 1 Fly to Sydney - Board Celebrity Solstice 2 Newcastle 3 - 4 Cruising 5 -6 Cairns 7 Airlie Beach 8 Cruising 9 Brisbane 10 - 11 Cruising 12 Bay of Islands 13 Arrive Auckland - Board coach 14 - 15 Rotorua 16 Napier 17 - 18 Wellington 19 Fly to Queenstown 20 Queenstown 21 Franz Josef Glacier 22 Christchurch Fly home 23
*Includes internal flight.
*Includes internal flight.
*Includes internal flight.
gptnzNOW.com
65
Featuring a relaxing 12 night ocean cruise combined with modern coach travel
Tour code: CSGP23
23 Day Best of New Zealand by Cruise & Coach NO HIDDEN EXTRAS TRAVEL SERVICES • Tour Guide • Internal flight from Auckland to Queenstown^ • Hotel to airport transfer in Christchurch, Day 23 • Port taxes • Comprehensive Documentation Pack Note: The airfare and transfer to Sydney on Day 1 to join the cruise is not included. Please make own arrangements.
CELEBRITY SOLSTICE CRUISE (Day 1 - 12) BONUS US$50 onboard credit per stateroom • Deluxe Balcony Cabin • Group Meet & Greet + Welcome Dinner • World-class dining in a range of unique venues (Breakfast, lunch & dinner daily) • Awesome entertainment • Inspiring activities such as cooking classes and wine tasting • Ports of call: - Hobart, free time to explore - Milford, Doubtful and Dusky Sound, Fiordland National Park - Dunedin, Edinburgh of the South - Akaroa, French inspired village - Picton, Marlborough Sounds Gateway - Tauranga, Bay of Plenty - Bay of Islands - Auckland, ‘City of Sails’ • Gratuities on board •
GUARANTEED departures 2019 2020 Oct 27 Feb 7# #This departure operates in reverse. Refer to the panel on far right for more details.
ALL INCLUSIVE tour price Fully escorted tour includes airfare^, luxury cruise, modern coach travel, 4 star hotel accommodation, most meals, sightseeing, attractions + BONUS US$50 onboard credit per stateroom on the Celebrity Solstice. Land only prices
NZ$
Twin share, per person Single supplement
$9599 $4500
Stay a little longer City Twin share Single Christchurch $135 $270 Extra night rates are per person and based on room only. Subject to availability.
>> MUST DO OPTION
66
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
PRE PAID ATTRACTIONS • Sky Tower • Kauri Museum* • Footprints Waipoua Forest Tour* • Waitangi Treaty Grounds* • Sculptureum Experience • Hamilton Gardens* • Hobbiton Movie Set Tour • Skyline Gondola & Luge Ride • Agrodome • Thermal mud pools & geysers* • Tamaki Maori Experience • TranzAlpine Rail Journey • City sights tour of Auckland *Guided tour is included with 1 guide per 24 travellers.
ITINERARY (B) Breakfast. (L) Lunch. (D) Dinner. (SD) Specialty Dinner. Port arrival and departure times may vary.
DAY 1: Arrive Sydney (D) Arrive in Sydney where you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours Guide aboard the Celebrity Solstice. Meet your travelling companions at dinner. Overnight Celebrity Solstice Port Times Depart at 17:00 DAY 2: Cruising (B,L,D) Relax and enjoy the comforts of this stunning superliner. While at sea enjoy the onboard facilities, world class cuisine and the entertainment not to mention your deluxe balcony cabin. DAY 3: Hobart (B,L,D) Docking in Hobart gives you immediate access to Mount Wellington and its incredibly beautiful surrounds. From there you can look out over the busy harbour, which plays host to yachts from all over the world. Port Times Arrive 08:00 Depart 18:00 DAYS 4 - 5: Cruising (B,L,D) Cruise across the Tasman Sea to the Land of the Long White Cloud.
An optional trip Cape Reinga is available.
SCENIC COACH TOUR (Day 13 - 23) Modern coach travel with 2 door access, restroom, reclining seats and panoramic windows • Professional Coach Captain • 10 nights four star hotel accommodation • 3 two night stays • Hotel porterage • 10 cooked breakfasts including a specialty breakfast: Stratosfare Restaurant, Rotorua • 8 sumptuous dinners including 2 specialty dinners: Maori Hangi & Concert, Rotorua; Farewell Dinner, Christchurch • 1 Shire’s buffet lunch: Hobbiton •
DAY 6: Milford, Doubtful & Dusky Sounds (B,L,D) Sail into the narrow fiords of Milford, Doubtful and Dusky Sounds. Your ship will seem to shrink in comparison to the towering cliffs topped by lush mountain terrain. Scenic cruising. DAY 7: Dunedin (B,L,D) Situated on the magnificent Otago coastline, explore Dunedin’s historic architecture and beautiful botanic gardens. Port Times Arrive 09:00 Depart 19:00 DAY 8: Akaroa (B,L,D) Nestled in the heart of an ancient volcano, Akaroa is rich with beautiful bays and home to the rarest and smallest marine dolphin. Port Times Arrive 08:00 Depart 18:00 DAY 9: Picton (B,L,D) Cruise through the many inlets and bays that make up the Marlborough Sounds to Picton, the gateway to the North Island. This small seaport is only a short distance from the Marlborough wine region, famous for its Sauvignon Blanc. Port Times Arrive 08:00 Depart 18:00 DAY 10: Cruising (B,L,D) Enjoy a quiet refuge by day, gazing over the sea with a cocktail in hand.
DAY 11: Tauranga (B,L,D) Known as the Bay of Plenty, Tauranga is located at the entrance to one of the largest natural harbours in New Zealand. Port Times Arrive 08:00 Depart 18:00 DAY 12: Bay of Islands (B,L,D) The beaches in this region are considered some of the world’s finest with their perfect white sand and crystal clear water. Port Times Arrive 08:00 Depart 19:00 DAY 13: Arrive Auckland - City Sights Tour (B,D) This morning arrive into the beautiful ‘City of Sails’, Auckland. Disembark the ship, meet your Coach Captain and enjoy an informative city tour of Auckland which includes the Auckland Domain, Parnell Rose Garden and Bastion Point. This afternoon visit Sky Tower at your leisure, one of New Zealand’s most spectacular attractions. Hotel Skycity Hotel DAY 14: Auckland - Hokianga - Bay of Islands (B,D) Depart Auckland and travel to Matakohe to enjoy an informative talk at the Kauri Museum. After lunch travel to the unforgettable Footprints Waipoua encounter, home to some of the largest remaining kauri trees in the world. A local guide will explain how these trees are intertwined with the lives of the local Maori and the important role they play in the ecosystem that is the Waipoua Forest. Continue to Paihia, situated in the heart of the beautiful Bay of Islands Hotel Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands (2 nights) DAY 15: Bay of Islands (Free Day) (B,D) Today is free to choose from the many optional activities available. You may like to take a coach trip to Cape Reinga via Ninety Mile Beach, the Hole in the Rock Cruise, or a spectacular scenic flight. The choice is yours and your Tour Guide & Coach Captain will be available to assist. DAY 16: Bay of Islands - Auckland (B) This morning enjoy a guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the location of the signing of the treaty between the Maori tribes and the British. Farewell the Bay of Islands and drive south via Whangarei and Warkworth to Matakana to visit Sculptureum, an art experience that is internationally unique. Enjoy time to wander through the Garden of Creative Diversity and to view the hundreds of displayed works in the Galleries and garden all designed to amuse and inspire. Return to Auckland where this evening is free to dine at leisure. Hotel Skycity Hotel DAY 17: Auckland - Rotorua (B,L,D) Travel to Waikato’s most visited attraction, the Hamilton Gardens. A guided tour will take you on a journey from the peaceful Sung Dynasty Chinese Scholar’s garden into an Italian Renaissance garden followed by the grandeur of the Indian Char Bagh garden. Next visit Hobbiton for lunch followed by an experience of the real Middle-earth
with a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set. A guide will escort you through the ten acre site recounting fascinating details of how the set was created. Continue to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua. Hotel Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua (Superior Room. 2 nights) DAY 18: Rotorua (B,SD) Today begins with a Gondola ride to the Stratosfare Restaurant where a buffet breakfast and spectacular views are on offer. There is also time for a luge ride! Next stop is the Agrodome for an action packed hour of farming entertainment and education that’s unlike anything you’ve seen before. Travel to Te Puia for a tour of the boiling mud pools and awesome Geysers that Rotorua is famous for. Enjoy some free time this afternoon before travelling to a Maori Village for an interactive and educational experience which culminates with a cultural performance and traditional hangi feast. DAY 19: Rotorua - Auckland - Queenstown (B,D) Travel to Auckland Airport where you will board a local flight to the resort town of Queenstown, located in the South Island. Meet your South Island Coach Captain and enjoy a tour of historic Arrowtown before arriving at your hotel. Hotel Millennium Queenstown (2 nights)
>> COACH THEN CRUISE
23 Day Best of New Zealand by Coach & Cruise GUARANTEED departure 7 Feb 2020# You may prefer to fly to Christchurch first and join your modern coach for a tour around New Zealand. Join the Celebrity Solstice in Auckland for a 12 night cruise around New Zealand heading back to Australia. Go to pages 62 - 63 for an overview or gptnz.com for full itinerary.
>> TOUR HIGH LIGHT
DAY 20: Queenstown (Free Day) (B) Today is a free day. There are plenty of sightseeing options and your Tour Guide and Coach Captain are available to assist. This evening is also free and you may choose to dine high above Queenstown at the Skyline Restaurant or board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu for a gourmet barbecue at Walter Peak Station (optional). DAY 21: Queenstown - Franz Josef (B,D) Depart Queenstown and travel 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. Continue to Franz Josef where time is available (weather permitting) to experience a scenic flight (optional) over the spectacular glaciers. Hotel Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier (Douglas Wing) DAY 22: Franz Josef - Arthur’s Pass - Christchurch (B,SD) 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. Travel through spectacular gorges, river valleys and over massive viaducts before completing your journey at Christchurch. This evening enjoy a Farewell Dinner with your new found friends. Hotel Sudima Christchurch Airport Hotel Day 23: Depart Christchurch (B) Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.
TOP TO BOTTOM: Sculptureum, a unique art experience; discover the traditions of Maori Culture; see awesome Geysers in Rotorua.
gptnzNOW.com
67
New Zealand
COACH HOLIDAY SPECIALIST
85
NZ$
Award-winning documentation
G
rand Pacific Tours offer one of the most comprehensive documentation packs in the travel industry. We have won several awards from our travel agent partners who continually advise us that GPT documents are the best.
Travel in style! Merchandise ULTIMATE SMALL GROUP TOURS DOCUMENTATION (Pages 18 - 31) On all Ultimate Small Group Tours, travellers will receive the same items as listed below however, the stylish travel bag and ticket wallet (1 per person) are made of a high quality fabric providing a long lasting memento of your tour.
SIGNATURE & AFFORDABLE COACH TOURS DOCUMENTATION (Pages 32 - 53) On all Coach Holidays travellers receive a durable travel bag, toiletry wet pack & laundry bag, luggage tag & personal name badge. Your ticket wallet (1 per couple) includes tour itinerary & questionnaire, Optional Tours Directory, General Information & Frequently Asked Questions Directory, Touring Map, postcard, customs required resealable plastic bag and an emergency contact card.
68
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
M
ake sure you look the part when you travel on a Grand Pacific Tour. Our groups look fantastic when they are all wearing their jackets and caps. Both products offer great value and will be a memento of your holiday for years to come.
Merchandise items must be ordered at time of booking and are not available for purchase in New Zealand
TOUR JACKET Unisex black waterproof shell jacket with embroidered logos, silver reflective piping, fleece lined collar, hood, inside mesh lining, adjustable Velcro cuff, double front and inside pockets, hidden draw cord and mobile phone pocket. Compact, lightweight, ideal for touring. Available in sizes XS to XXXL. Price NZ$85
28
NZ$
TOUR CAP Black wool blend cap with pre curved peak, 6 panel structure with fabric Velcro strap and embroidered logos. One size. Price NZ$28
Special offer Purchase both items for NZ$105, normally NZ$113
Booking Terms & Conditions Payment and completion of the GOOD TO GO Form acknowledges that your client has read, understood and accepted these booking conditions. Grand Pacific Tours (GPT) is a 100% Australian owned company. For a full list of booking terms and conditions, refer to the GPT website at gptnz.com Deposits & Payment At the time of booking a deposit of NZ$200 per person is required for all Affordable, Signature Coach Tours & Special Interest Tours; NZ$500 per person for Ultimate Small Group Tours and NZ$900 per person for Cruise Coach Tours. The balance of payment, including any merchandise, is due 60 days prior to departure. If you are booked on a module of a tour (8 Day Taste of the North Island or 10 Day South Island Spectacular), your final balance date will be due 70 days prior to departure, as this will fall in line with the 16 Day or 19 Day itineraries that this tour is part of. Once the tour has been booked and confirmed cancellation fees will apply as per Terms and Conditions. Prices All holiday prices are based on schedules, fares and tariffs current at the time of printing. GPT reserves the right to vary the cost of tours if necessary, by reason of currency fluctuation, component cost increase or airfare cost. Tour costing will be guaranteed at the price prevailing at the date of final payment. Children Children’s fares (i.e. 11 years and under) are available. Exact amounts will be confirmed to your travel agent at time of booking. Each child must be paired with a supervising adult within the same party due to our seat rotation policy. Please note: Unfortunately children under five are not suitable on these tours. Children are not permitted on Ultimate Small Group Tours. Luggage Limits Each traveller is entitled to take one suitcase, the sum of its length, width & depth not to exceed 140cm. Weight limits apply to luggage due to Occupational Health and Safety issues. The maximum allowed by most airlines and GPT is one piece up to 23kg. Luggage over this allowance will be charged by the airline at the applicable rate. If a traveller brings more than the allocated limit of luggage, any additional arrangements made to get their luggage to final destination will be at travellers own expense. Travellers on UItimate Small Group Tours are entitled to take 2 suitcases up to 23kg per piece. All luggage is entirely at the ‘owners risk’ whilst on tour and we strongly recommend that travel insurance be taken out by each traveller to cover accidental damage or loss. The GPT travel bag is designed to carry a maximum of 6kg. Due to limited space on board the coach, please ensure carry-on bags do not exceed this limit. Check with your Travel Agent for more details. Hotel Information GPT endeavours to utilise the most suitable hotels available in each location to ensure travellers enjoy a level of cleanliness, comfort and service. In more remote locations, hotel standards may not be as high due to limited choice. Should the hotels on tour change for any reason, we will endeavour to ensure that the alternative hotel is of an equivalent standard. Pre / Post Accommodation in New Zealand Pre tour hotel check in time is approx. 2pm. If early hotel check-in or late check-out is required due to flight schedules, additional accommodation will need to be purchased. The rates quoted in this brochure are only valid for one night and room only. Any additional meals will need to be ordered and purchased directly with the hotels, BB rates cannot be provided. Additional nights may be charged at the prevailing rate by the hotel. Dietary Requests GPT limit special dietary requests to Vegetarian, Gluten Free, Lactose Intolerant & Diabetic. These will be requested to the hotel but cannot be guaranteed. Religious dietary requests (ie. Hindu Vegetarian, Kosher, Halal) cannot be accommodated. Being a volume group tour operator contracting specific menus which range from buffet to a-la-carte, the logistics of arranging meals meeting the correct criteria over an extended touring itinerary can be challenging and cannot be guaranteed to meet the expectations of the traveller. Any further intolerances needing to be managed are the responsibility of the traveller. Twin Share Travellers If you are travelling alone and do not wish to pay the single supplement, a twin share room will be provided with a person of the same gender. Smoking and special room requests are not permitted on this basis. It is your duty to disclose any medical or other conditions that may prevent you from being a suitable
rooming partner and you must accept that compatibility with your rooming partner cannot be guaranteed. If at any time during the tour you consider your rooming partner unsuitable, we will endeavour to arrange single accommodation for you for the remainder of the tour, subject to availability and at your own cost. We accept no responsibility for the suitability of the allocated rooming partner.
Optional Tours These tours are to be booked with the Coach Captain whilst on tour. GPT does not operate these excursions. As such, no person employed or associated with GPT has any connection with the operators of these excursions. Accordingly, GPT cannot and do not take any responsibility for any injury, action, loss or damage of any type, arising in any manner from these excursions.
The option to twin share with another single traveller is not available on Ultimate Small Group Tours, Cruise & Coach and Special Interest Tours. Please enquire with your Travel Agent at time of booking.
Documentation GPT documentation including any merchandise will be made available for collection at the first night hotel for International travellers. Australian residents’ tour documentation will be delivered to their physical home address two weeks prior to tour departure. P.O. Box address is not acceptable. Unfortunately we cannot accommodate early requests for documentation. Ticket wallet is one per person for Ultimate Small Group Tours and Cruise Coach Tours; and one per couple for Affordable, Signature & Special Interest Tours. The traveller(s) is / are responsible for the acquisition of passports and appropriate visas, where necessary. We recommend that such documents, as required by governments, are finalised at least six (6) weeks prior to the date of departure.
Single Travellers Paying the Single Supplement covers the sole use of a hotel room only, the coach is not single seating and you will be required to sit with a fellow traveller. Triple Share Room Bookings Hotel rooms are generally sized to accommodate two travellers in comfort. When three travellers elect to share a room note that there will be restricted space. A rollaway bed may be used for triple share bookings where three separate beds are required. Triple share arrangements are not available on Ultimate Small Group Tours & Cruise Coach Tours. Milford Mariner & Fiordland Navigator There are stairs to the cabin and dining area. All travellers are required to be physically able to climb stairs on their own or with the assistance of their travelling companion. A mainland option is available. Bedding types are limited and we are unable to guarantee preferred bedding. Extra charges apply for triple share requests on the Milford Mariner, please enquire at time of booking. Smoking Laws Smoking is not permitted in any licensed premises (bars, restaurants, cafes, casinos, etc) throughout New Zealand. Smoking rooms at hotels will be subject to availability and may not be available in some destinations. Smoking is permitted on the cruise ship in designated areas only. Coach Seat Rotation For the enjoyment of all travellers GPT operates a daily seat rotation system which all travellers must participate in as a condition of booking. Travel Insurance Comprehensive Travel Insurance is not included but is strongly recommended for all travellers. Speak to your local Travel Agent to arrange this. Cancellations / Transfer of Booking In the event a traveller cancels off a tour the following fees apply prior to departure: - 60 days or more prior to departure, loss of deposit plus the cost of the airline ticket if issued. - Between 7 and 59 days prior to departure, 50% of the tour package price. - Less than 7 days prior to departure, 100% of the tour package price. If you are booked on a module of a tour (8 Day Taste of North Island tour or 10 Day South Island Spectacular tour), your cancellation fees will fall in line with the commencement of the 16 Day or 19 Day itineraries that this tour is part of. If a traveller wishes to cancel their existing booking and transfer to a new departure date, the above cancellation fees still apply. Traveller Demographic GPT’s demographic of traveller is the mature aged person 50+, or those travellers that prefer a low impact itinerary. All travellers should have a good level of fitness and health to cope with full days of travel, walking and climbing stairs. Health and Fitness Payment of deposit by traveller(s) to GPT acts as a warranty that the traveller(s) is / are reasonably healthy and / or fit to participate in the tour and the traveller(s) indemnifies GPT from all actions, claims and demands arising out of any want of health and fitness. GPT reserves the right to remove a traveller from a tour if their health and / or fitness interferes with the tour or other traveller(s) tour experience in any way. Travelling with a collapsible wheelchair / mobility scooter is subject to availability at the time of booking as each tour only has the capacity to cater for one wheelchair / mobility passenger. Accessible rooms are subject to availability and not always allocated in the room type advertised General Conduct GPT reserves the right to remove a traveller from a tour if they are acting in a way that interferes with the general operation of the tour or compromises the general enjoyment of the tour by other travellers in any way.
Transfers Airport transfers in New Zealand are included. They will not be included if travellers have pre or post tour accommodation booked outside the Tour Hotels. Transfers provided surrounding pre and post tour dates must directly link to the tour and cannot be used on a broken stay. On arrival in New Zealand, the transfer vehicle will wait up to 1 hour after the flight lands. If your flight is delayed or changes please contact GPT. Should traveller’s flight departure details change, contact needs to be made to GPT or the transfer company to ensure new transfer arrangements can be confirmed. Any transfer expenses incurred as a result of flight changes NOT advised, will be at the traveller’s own expense. Refund Please note that no refund shall be made for any unused portion of any itinerary. Any alteration to the holiday, made by a traveller(s), shall be wholly at the expense of that traveller(s). Holiday Duration The first and last day of most structured holidays is considered a travelling day and therefore may not necessarily be a whole day. Special Offers Only one special offer is applicable per booking. There will be no retrospective discounts. Force Majeure Except where otherwise expressly stated in these booking conditions we regret that we cannot accept liability or pay any compensation where the performance of our contractual obligations is prevented or affected by reason of circumstances amounting to ‘force majeure’. In these booking conditions, ‘force majeure’ means any event which we or the supplier of the service(s) in question could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Such events may include war or threat of war, riots, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events outside our control. Cruise Coach Tour Bookings BONUS US$ onboard credit is per stateroom and based on minimum number of cabins sold. For a full list of conditions including deposits and cancellation fees, refer to the NZ Cruise & Coach Brochure. Internet Most hotels have internet access available. Not all hotels offer free Wi-Fi, charges may apply. GPT do not have any influence over hotel Wi-Fi access and related costs. Internet access is available on the Celebrity Solstice for a fee. Privacy Policy For a full version of our Privacy Policy, refer to GPT website at gptnz.com/privacy-statement. Validity Brochure valid for travel from September 2019 - May 2020.
MERCHANDISE CONDITIONS
GPT have a range of merchandise available to all travellers. All orders should be made at the time of booking and rates applicable for your market are in New Zealand Dollars. The same commission level applies to the sale of merchandise. Items available are a waterproof jacket, GPT wool blend cap. Pricing is listed within our International Tariff. An additional NZ$10 postage & handling fee per delivery will be charged with any purchase.
Responsibilities GPT advises that the service it provides is for the booking and packaging of goods and services provided by other operators such as cruise ships, hotels and transportation companies. Travellers are advised to familiarise themselves with the terms and conditions on which these services are supplied. Accordingly, GPT will not be responsible and will be excluded from liability for any loss, damage, omission or acts being negligent or otherwise, committed by the operators of airlines, cruise ships, coach companies, hotels or attractions used in connection with the tours.
gptnzNOW.com
69
New Zealand
COACH HOLIDAY SPECIALIST
2019 / 2020 International Tariff (NZ$) UTLIMATE SMALL GROUP TOURS 19 Day Ultimate Rail, Cruise & Coach 19 Day Ultimate Discovery 16 Day Ultimate Explorer 10 Day Ultimate South Island Escape 9 Day Ultimate North Island Escape 11 Day Ultimate Christmas Tour 11 Day Ultimate New Year Escape 11 Day Ultimate SOLO Travellers SIGNATURE COACH TOURS 19 Day NZ Rail, Cruise & Coach Holiday 19 Day New Zealand Showcase 10 Day South Island Spectacular 9 Day Northern Spectacular AFFORDABLE COACH TOURS 16 Day Highlights of New Zealand 14 Day New Zealand Panorama Tour 9 Day Taste of the South Island 8 Day Taste of the North Island SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS 17 Day Festive Tour 11 Day South Island Festive Tour 16 Day SOLO Travellers Tour CRUISE & COACH TOURS 21 Day NZ Vista by Cruise & Coach 23 Day Best of NZ by Cruise & Coach 23 Day Best of NZ by Coach & Cruise 23 Day QLD & NZ Gems
TOUR CODE UGPRC19 UGPDY19 UGPEX16 UGPSI10 UGPNI9 UGPX11 UGPNY11 UGPSO11
TWIN SHARE LAND ONLY $10999 $10099 $8819 $5929 $5169 $6699 $6699 N/A
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT $3550 $3100 $2710 $1970 $1580 $2230 $2230 $8929*
TOUR CODE
TWIN SHARE LAND ONLY
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
GPR19 GPS19 GPS10 GPS9
$7899 $7199 $4249 $3719
$2600 $2350 $1300 $1130
TOUR CODE
TWIN SHARE LAND ONLY
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
GPN16 GPN14 GPN9 GPN8
$5899 $5139 $3699 $3099
$1770 $1560 $990 $860
TOUR CODE
TWIN SHARE LAND ONLY
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
GPNX17 GPX11 GPNSG16
$6369 $5199 $5899
$1850 $1650 $7669*
TOUR CODE
TWIN SHARE LAND ONLY
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
CSGP21 CSGP23 CSGPR23 CSGPQ23
$9099 $9599 $9599 $9499
$4700 $4500 $4500 $4500
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS MERCHANDISE
PER ITEM
Tour Jacket Tour Cap Tour Jacket / Tour Cap
$85 $28 $105
PRE / POST AUCKLAND TWIN / SINGLE
PRE / POST WELLINGTON TWIN / SINGLE
PRE / POST CHRISTCHURCH TWIN / SINGLE
$175 $350 N/A N/A $230 $460 $175 $350 N/A N/A $230 $460 $175 $350 N/A N/A $230 $460 N/A N/A N/A N/A $270 $540 $175 $350 $175 $350 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A $270 $540 N/A N/A $175 $350 $270 $540 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A $540 PRE / POST AUCKLAND TWIN / SINGLE
PRE / POST WELLINGTON TWIN / SINGLE
PRE / POST CHRISTCHURCH TWIN / SINGLE
$175 $160 N/A $160
N/A N/A N/A $150
$135 $135 $135 N/A
$350 $320 N/A $320
N/A N/A N/A $300
PRE / POST AUCKLAND TWIN / SINGLE
PRE / POST WELLINGTON TWIN / SINGLE
PRE / POST CHRISTCHURCH TWIN / SINGLE
$150 $150 N/A $150
N/A N/A N/A $125
$120 $120 $120 N/A
$300 $300 N/A $300
PRE / POST AUCKLAND TWIN / SINGLE $150 N/A $150
$300 N/A $300
PRE / POST AUCKLAND TWIN / SINGLE N/A N/A N/A N/A
N/A N/A N/A N/A
N/A N/A N/A $250
PRE / POST WELLINGTON TWIN / SINGLE N/A N/A N/A
N/A N/A N/A
PRE / POST WELLINGTON TWIN / SINGLE N/A N/A N/A N/A
N/A N/A N/A N/A
GRAND PACIFIC TOURS
$240 $240 $240 N/A
PRE / POST CHRISTCHURCH TWIN / SINGLE $120 $135 $120
$240 $270 $240
PRE / POST CHRISTCHURCH TWIN / SINGLE $135 $135 $135 $135
$270 $270 $270 $270
The above rates are valid for September 2019 to May 2020 touring season. All rates are in New Zealand Dollars. *SINGLE SUPPLEMENT rate quoted is for a GUARANTEED SINGLE ROOM. PRE / POST Tour rates include a full breakfast + other luxe benefits. SEASONAL OFFERS will apply for September and selected April / May dates, refer to itinerary pages. All merchandise orders are subject to a NZ$10 total postage charge.
70
$270 $270 $270 N/A
GPT Australia & New Zealand Operations Key Personnel Grand Pacific Tours Head office
Key personnel and contacts
Grand Pacific Tours (GPT) office is open for communication from 08:30 - 17:30 Monday to Friday, and Saturday 09:00 - 12:00 Australian Eastern Standard Time.
Peter Harding Managing Director peter@gptnz.com
Correspondence Main Telephone After Hours Email Consumer Website Trade Website
PO Box 774 Moonee Ponds VIC 3039 Australia +61 3 9372 0288 +61 407 363 592 reservations@gptnz.com gptnz.com gptnzNOW.com
New Zealand Operations contacts Grand Pacific Tours have an Operations Manager based in Auckland and Christchurch:
Stacia Morris General Manager stacia@gptnz.com Michael Nelson Business Development International Markets michael@pinnaclemarketing.com.au Pam Searle / Tierney Hill Tour Administration Executives pam@gptnz.com / tierney@gptnz.com Cheryl Dootson Reservations Manager cheryl@gptnz.com Leon Sinfield Groups Manager leon@gptnz.com
@grandpacifictours
North Island Malcolm Hegh
+64 27 554 6111
Connect with us
South Island Julia Savill
+64 21 890 005
Encourage your travellers to share their photos and videos on Facebook or Instagram with the tag @grandpacifictours to join in on the fun!
Airport Transfers Grand Pacific Tours will not be handling any airline arrangements on your behalf as each booking will be based on land only arrangements. Flight times are to be advised to GPT on all bookings for the administration of return airport transfers in New Zealand. Emergency contact numbers for transfer operators: Auckland Auckland Ultimate Wellington Christchurch
+64 27 498 5872 +64 27 422 5466 +64 4 387 4600 +64 27 437 5432
facebook.com/grandpacifictours instagram.com/grandpacifictours
gptnzNOW.com