We'll meet you on arrival and transfer you to your hotel. You'll have plenty of time to settle in, explore or relax.
Tonight, get to know your APT Tour Director and fellow travellers during a welcome dinner. Stay: Cordis Auckland or Pullman Auckland Hotel & Apartments (D)
Cross Auckland's Harbour Bridge and travel along the Hibiscus Coast. Stop at Matakohe's Kauri Museum for an insight into the rich pioneering history of the Northland region. Continue to the Bay of Islands, a sub-tropical region comprised of 144 islands, abundant marine life, and steeped in history.
Later, dock in the historic and charming town of Russell, known as the country's first European settlement. Offering waterfront cafes and beautiful beaches, this town combines natural beauty and an interesting historical background. Enjoy a dinner of locally sourced produce and world-class seafood at the Duke of Marlborough. Stay Two Nights: Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands or Copthorne Hotel Bay of Islands (B/D)
Join a cruise to Cape Brett and see the famous natural rock formation, the Hole in the Rock. Throughout the cruise, you may spot marine wildlife that inhabit the waters of this region. Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where New Zealand's founding document, the Treaty of Waitangi, was first signed in 1840. Enjoy dinner at your hotel tonight. (B/D)
Spend today on Waiheke Island, located a 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland. Attracting discerning travellers, artists and wine lovers from all over the world, Waiheke is famous for its 40 kilometres of pristine white-sand beaches, hilly terrain, stunning views, bohemian arts scene and, of course, internationally awarded vineyards and wineries. Enjoy lunch before returning to Auckland to be transferred to your ship. Meet your captain and crew at tonight's welcome reception and dinner. Stay 10 Nights: Le Soleal (B/L/D)
Arrive at Whakatane and drive to Rotorua. From explosive geysers to bubbling mud pools and steaming natural hot springs, Rotorua is a major highlight when visiting New Zealand. Pass through Rotorua to one of New Zealand's leading cultural and thermal attractions. See young Maori apprentices being taught the ancient art of carving and weaving before discovering the Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve, Rotorua's largest and best-known thermal area. Exploration of the site is on foot, passing boiling mud pools and the soaring Pohutu geyser.
This incredible display of nature's raw force provides insight into the awesome natural forces at work below. Te Puia's Maori cultural performance will transport you back in time, beginning with a spine-tingling wero (challenge) from a Maori warrior followed by a traditional powhiri (welcome). You are then invited inside the beautifully carved wharenui (meeting house), to experience a traditional and unique Maori concert. After, indulge in a delectable Hangi style lunch, savouring Maori-inspired dishes featuring fresh locally sourced produce. (B/L/D)
Discover the scenic beauty, history, nature and culture of Akaroa in one complete comprehensive tour. Visit some of the most important historic sites such as Takapuneke, the site of the Brig Elizabeth Te Rauparaha massacre, Onuku Marae, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed, and Britomart Monument, the place of the British declaration of sovereignty. (B/L/D)
Enjoy an orientation drive through Dunedin that will introduce you to a well-preserved Victorian city. Soak up the grandeur of its architecture, from the classical ANZ Bank to the buildings surrounding the Octagon, an eight-sided plaza that forms the core of Dunedin's lively business district. Visit the iconic Larnach Castle, built in the late 19th century by prominent businessman and politician William Larnach and known as one of New Zealand's finest examples of Victorian architecture. Boasting intricate detailing, the castle features a unique blend of Gothic and styles with beautiful views of the Otago Peninsula.
Afterwards, explore the peninsula further and discover its picturesque bays and stunning views at every turn. The peninsula is home to diverse wildlife including albatrosses, sea lions and penguins and offers a memorable experience in the heart of the South Island. Finish the day with a visit to Penguin Place, a conservation reserve located on the peninsula dedicated to protecting the endangered yellow-eyed penguin – native to New Zealand and one of the rarest penguin species in the world. (B/L/D)
After breakfast, board your coach to Wanaka, a charming town nestled in the Southern Alps of New Zealand's South Island with stunning natural landscapes and the beautiful Lake Wanaka surrounded by majestic mountains. Explore Arrowtown with your Tour Director, a historic gold mining town in the Otago region and the gateway to the nearby Southern Alps. Explore the preserved heritage buildings and boutique shops, cafes and restaurants.
Continue to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. With its vibrant atmosphere and stunning landscapes, Queenstown is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy dinner at your hotel tonight. Stay Three Nights: Crowne Plaza Queenstown with Lakeview Rooms or Novotel Queenstown Lakeside with Alpine View Rooms (B/L/D)
Marvel at the spectacle of Milford Sound/Piopiotahi on a cruise of its full length. Cruise beneath tall cliffs on the flanks of Mitre Peak, get close to tumbling waterfalls, and view seals, penguins and a variety of seabirds. (B)
Your New Zealand tour concludes after breakfast. (B)
Base Cabin (Prices Shown) | $ 0 |
Deluxe Balcony Stateroom | $ 1,000 |
Prestige Balcony Stateroom Deck 4 | $ 2,450 |
Prestige Balcony Stateroom Deck 5 | $ 2,850 |
Prestige Balcony Stateroom Deck 5QB | $ 2,850 |
Prestige Balcony Stateroom Deck 6 | $ 3,750 |
Prestige Balcony Stateroom Deck 6QB | $ 3,750 |
Deluxe Balcony Suite | $ 8,300 |
Owners Balcony Suite | $ 17,700 |
Regions