Day 01 – Arrive Wellington
Welcome to New Zealand! A Tours representative will greet you at the airport with transport to take you to your hotel.
Overnight accommodation: 1 Night – Bay Plaza Hotel
Day 02 – Wellington / Blenheim / Nelson
This morning join the Interislander Ferry in Wellington for the scenic cruise across the Cook Strait via the spectacular Marlborough Sounds and into Picton. After being welcomed by your Coach Captain, you will take a short drive to Blenheim where you will visit Brancott Estate for a tasting and winery tour. From this renowned wine region, it’s a fascinating drive to Nelson noted for its arts and crafts. (B,D)
Overnight accommodation: 2 Nights – Leisure Lodge
Day 03 – Nelson or Abel Tasman National Park
Today is at your leisure; if you have pre-selected the Abel Tasman day tour your Coach Captain will provide you with instructions for your day excursion. If you prefer to relax, why not take the time to explore the shops and art galleries which make Nelson famous. If you would like to explore a little more your Coach Captain will happily assist with arranging activities for you. (B,D)
Overnight accommodation: Leisure Lodge
Day 04 – Nelson / Greymouth
Travelling through the rugged Buller Gorge, a spectacular scenic drive, we visit Westport and the coast near Cape Foulwind. A moment to explore the Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki before arriving at Greymouth. Visit Jade Boulder Gallery showcasing native jade, mined in remote alpine valleys. See craftsmen cut and polish giant boulders to create fine jewellery. (B,D)
Overnight accommodation: 1 Night – Hotel Ashley – Greymouth
Day 05 – Greymouth / Franz Josef
Departing Greymouth you hug the coastline of the West Coast, first stop Hokitika to explore a Pounamu (Jade) gallery. Pounamu is considered a treasure in Maori culture and was often given as gifts to seal important agreements. See how they now create beautiful jewelry out of this amazing green stone. Continuing south, you will be mesmerized as you come closer to the Southern Alps where they dominate the horizon, highlighting your journey to Franz Josef. (B,D)
Overnight accommodation: 1 Night – Scenic Hotel Franz Josef
Day 06 – Franz Josef / Wanaka
Today we leave the West Coast and head inland towards the Aspiring National Park. On arrival into Wanaka you will have a choice of activities between a launch cruise that will take you across the lake to Stevensons Island, a nature reserve, then an informative bush walk with refreshments. Alternatively, if adrenalin is what you are after, then experience an exhilarating jet boat ride along the Clutha River. (B,D)
Overnight accommodation: 1 Night – Grand Mercure Oakridge Resort
Day 07 – Wanaka / Queenstown
This morning we depart Wanaka, a picturesque region with a fascinating history of early settlement and gold mining. We arrive late morning into the ever-popular resort of Queenstown. Dinner tonight is at the spectacular Skyline Restaurant (entire group). (B,D)
Overnight accommodation: 3 Nights – Rydges Hotel
