We board the world-famous TranzAlpine for our journey through the Southern Alps then visit Hokitika for a Jade jewellery demonstration. We travel through the gold-mining town of Ross before arriving at Franz Josef. This afternoon we enjoy informative commentary from our l ocal expert glacier guide as he walks us to our viewing area at mighty Franz Josef Glacier. Tonight enjoy a welcome drink and dinner with your fellow passengers.

Hotel: Franz Josef Glacier Country Retreat, Franz Josef. D

We soak up the scenic wilderness of the Heritage Highway through the impressive Buller Gorge and the Kahurangi National Park before arriving in Nelson. This afternoon we visit the World of Wearable Arts and Collectable Cars.

Hotel: Trailways Hotel, Nelson, 2 nights. BD

There is time for an optional scenic flight over the glacier (weather permitting) or to take a dip in the local hot pools. Later we travel over the Haast Pass and along the shores of Lakes Wanaka and Hawea. Stop to explore the gold-mining town of Arrowtown followed by an orientation tour of Queenstown before arriving at our exclusive accommodation.

Hotel: Millbrook Resort, Queenstown, 2 nights. B

Option to journey to the top of the South Island and enjoy a relaxing cruise in the Abel Tasman National Park. Perhaps try a short bush walk, relax in sunny Nelson or explore the many arts and craft shops. B

Perhaps try a jet boat ride, white water rafting or a round of golf at Millbrook's world-renowned golf course. Tonight we ride the Skyline Gondola to Bob's Peak for dinner with stunning views overlooking Queenstown. B D

Travel to the small seaside town of Picton. We cruise on Queen Charlotte Sound and across Cook Strait to Wellington for a short city tour on arrival.

Hotel: Museum Hotel, Wellington, 2 nights. B

We travel south along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau. Later we travel into the Fiordland National Park. We take time to explore the Mirror Lakes, Pop's Lookout and The Chasm before arriving into Milford Sound for our overnight cruise.

Hotel: Milford Mariner, Milford Sound. B D

Why not explore Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand? Perhaps go shopping or enjoy a meal at one of the many cafés or restaurants in Wellington. B

Enjoy the many early morning activities on board. Perhaps take a walk on the foreshore or try kayaking on the Sound. Continue further south to Invercargill. This afternoon we board our ferry at Bluff to cruise to Stewart Island. Tonight is free to dine at one of the cafés or the local hotel.

Hotel: Bay Motel, Stewart Island, 2 nights. B

Travel along the Kapiti Coast through to Palmerston North. Continue to Napier for a tour of this Art Deco city.

Hotel: Scenic Circle Te Pania Hotel, Napier. B

Enjoy a Village and Bays tour before a cruise with lunch on Paterson Inlet. Stop at Ulva Island and spend time with native wildlife. It is predator-free and is a must for viewing native birds and flora. Tonight you may want to try to spot kiwis in the native bush near our accommodation! B L

Our exclusive local guide takes us on a walking tour to show the many different types of Art Deco architecture. In 1931 Napier was struck by an earthquake measuring 7.8. The subsequent fires destroyed most of the city which was later rebuilt in Art Deco style. This afternoon we visit Taupo on the shores of Lake Taupo. View the Huka Falls and pass the Wairakei Geothermal Power Station. On arrival in Rotorua visit the Whakarewarewa Village for an authentic look at how Maori live today. Top off the day with a Maori Hangi & concert.

We board our ferry and return to the mainland. Later we stop to try local stone fruit at Cromwell. Enjoy views of Lake Dunstan, New Zealand's largest man-made lake as we travel over the Lindis Pass. We arrive at our wilderness retreat, with its views of Lake Ohau and Mt. Cook.

Hotel: Lake Ohau Lodge, Twizel. B D

Enjoy a view of life on the farm at the Agrodome Sheep Show. Visit Rainbow Springs for a guided tour. Later we travel to the English country town of Cambridge where you will be collected by your local farm host for some genuine kiwi hospitality - an overnight Farm Stay!

Hotel: Farm Stay, Cambridge. B D

Soak up the scenery of Mt. Cook National Park with an optional scenic flight (weather permitting). We'll see Lakes Pukaki and Tekapo, visit the Church of the Good Shepherd and travel across the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch. This afternoon enjoy a city tour then perhaps ride the Christchurch Tram or just relax.

Hotel: Copthorne Central, Christchurch. B

Travel towards the Coromandel Ranges. We meet 'Kiwi Dundee' for a tour of the region and a look at native wildlife. Our unique accommodation is set amongst native bush in luxury tree huts.

Hotel: Puka Park, Coromandel. B D

We journey over the Southern Alps through scenic Lewis Pass. Continue to Greymouth, the largest town on the West Coast. This afternoon we travel along the picturesque coast road to Punakaiki. Visit the fascinating Pancake Rocks and Blowholes before we overnight at our exclusive eco-friendly resort right on the waterfront at Punakaiki. Enjoy dinner with your fellow passengers while watching the thundering surf at your door step!

Hotel: Punakaiki Resort, Punakaiki. B D

Travel through the Coromandel Ranges and stop at the old gold-mining town of Thames. Later we see the sights of Auckland before being transferred to Auckland Airport for your onward flight. B

May-2011 to Sep-2011

• Tour prices and dates are correct at the time of the website going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking.
• Prices may vary because of fuel surcharge or changes in statutory taxes or charges.
• All tour information is correct at time of tours going live, however is subject to change, please confirm all details at time of booking.
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