Rail Spectacular Auckland to Christchurch [ZRNS]
![Rail Spectacular Auckland to Christchurch [ZRNS]](http://www.cdn.aatkings.travcorpdata.com/images/zrns.jpg)
Available Tour Dates
2012
- March
- 6
* Availability Guaranteed
Spectacular sightseeing experiences
8 amazing rail journeys
- The Overlander (Days 2 & 4)
- Silverstream Vintage Railway
- TranzCoastal
- Taieri Gorge Railway
- TranzAlpine
- The Shantytown Express
- Larnach Castle Dunedin
- Maori Hangi and concert
- Thermal Reserve Rotorua
- View mighty Mt. Cook
- Cruise on Milford Sound
- View Franz Josef Glacier
- INCLUDED Maori Cultural Experience
- OPTIONAL Maori Cultural Experience
- RAIL Journey Experience
Cost Saver holiday inclusions
Transportation
Tour by luxury air-conditioned coach with 2-door access, restroom, seatbelts, reclining seats, panoramic windows
Professionally Guided
Tour with an experienced, professional Tour Director and Tour Driver
Dining Inclusions
- Full Buffet Breakfasts (14) B
- Exciting Highlight Dinners (2) HD
- Hotel Dinners (8) D
Accommodation
Twin share rooms with private facilities in centrally located hotels
Plus
- Welcome drink
- Travel wallet and map
- Airport transfers (Day 1 from Auckland Airport - flights to arrive prior to 4.00pm; Day 15 to Christchurch Airport - flights anytime)
- Hotel porterage included
Day 1: Arrive Auckland
After we transfer you from the airport, settle into your hotel, then see Auckland your way - visit the Sky Tower, Viaduct Harbour or explore the Waitemata Harbour by ferry. A welcome drink with your Tour Director and travel companions ends the day.
Hotel: Mercure, Auckland. D
Day 2: Auckland - Rotorua
We board The Overlander to journey through the heart of the North Island. Travel along the Waikato River with stunning views of lush farmland - New Zealand's longest - to the Waitomo Caves for a guided tour and to discover the amazing Glow Worm Grotto. Then it's on to Rotorua. On our orientation tour you'll soak up views of Lake Rotorua. Tonight experience a traditional Maori Hangi feast and concert.
Hotel: Ibis, Rotorua, 2 nights. B HD
Day 3: Rotorua
This morning it's time to visit the Agrodome Sheep Show then a guided tour of the Geothermal Reserve. B
Day 4: Rotorua - Wellington
Travelling from the mountains to the sea, today we'll see Lake Taupo, the Huka Falls, the alpine scenery of Mt. Ruapehu. We board The Overlander at Taumarunui. Take in the lush forest, farmland and stunning alpine views as we cross the volcanic plateau of the central North Island. Traverse gorges, sprawling plains then enter the world famous Raurimu Spiral.
Hotel: Mercure, Wellington, 2 nights. B D
Day 5: Wellington
Enjoy a city tour of Wellington. Visit Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. Later you'll visit the Silverstream Railway in Upper Hutt to view some of the preserved New Zealand railways and industrial steam and diesel locomotives. Enjoy a short steam train ride and tour through their restoration factory. B
Day 6: Wellington - Christchurch
This morning you'll cruise the Cook Strait into tranquil Queen Charlotte Sound. At Picton board the Tranz Coastal and journey down the East Coast of the South Island. Travel over 100 kilometres pinned between the Pacific Ocean and the rugged Kaikoura Ranges. Next we head through the Canterbury Plains en route to Christchurch.
Hotel: Heartland Hotel Cotswold, Christchurch. B
Day 7: Mt. Cook
Continuing our travels we see Lakes Tekapo and Pukaki, visit the Church of the Good Shepherd and soak up the spectacular alpine scenery of Mt. Cook National Park. If you like take a scenic flight over Mt. Cook (weather permitting).
Hotel: MacKenzie Country Inn, Standard Rooms, Twizel. B D
Day 8: Dunedin
En route to Dunedin we'll see the famous white limestone buildings of Oamaru. Board the historic Seasider train at Palmerston for the journey through to Dunedin. This afternoon join the historic Taieri Gorge Railway for your second train journey through rugged, spectacular scenery only accessible by train. Cross stone work bridge, ride through tunnels and over iron latticework viaducts built in the 1880's.
Hotel: Kingsgate, Dunedin. B D
Day 9: Dunedin - Te Anau
Take a guided tour of New Zealand's only castle - Larnach Castle and its gardens. Then we head off across rich fertile, sheep-filled farming land on the way to Te Anau, on the shores of Lake Te Anau. Tonight you can choose to travel by boat to the Te Anau Glow Worm Caves.
Hotel: The Village Inn, Te Anau. B D
Day 10: Milford Sound
Be awe-struck by the magnificence of the Fiordland National Park, not only a World Heritage Park but also New Zealand's largest. Amazing nature and photo opportunities await us as we see rainforest, ancient glaciers, mountain ranges and the hand-made Homer Tunnel. Mirror Lake. Pop's Lookout. Cleddau Valley and the Chasm. Mitre Peak. Bowen Falls. Cruise on Milford Sound. Continue to Queenstown. Your dinner option tonight is the sensational Skyline Restaurant on Bob's Peak via the Southern Hemisphere's steepest Gondola! A bonus Kiwi Haka Maori Show makes for a top night.
Hotel: Heartland Hotel, Queenstown, 2 nights. B
Day 11: Queenstown 'Free Time'
Explore action adventure Queenstown your way. Take it easy with a wine or garden tour. Or go wild with jet boat rides or white water rafting. Just be back in time for dinner and a sheep shearing demonstration at Walter Peak Sheep Station. We travel there and back across Lake Wakatipu via the TSS Earnslaw, New Zealand's oldest steamship. B HD
Day 12: Queenstown - Fox Glacier
First stop. Arrowtown, on the Arrow River. Second stop Cromwell and its sensational stone fruit. Then it's a trio of lakes – Lake Dunstan, Lake Hawea, Lake Wanaka. Through the Haast Pass, you'll view Thunder Creek Falls and enjoy a rainforest walk. Final stop, majestic Fox Glacier. Take the opportunity for an optional scenic flight over the glacier (weather permitting).
Hotel: Heartland Hotel, Fox Glacier. B D
Day 13: Punakaiki - Greymouth
We depart for Hokitika, home of the native greenstone (jade) for a factory visit and jewellery demonstration. Later you'll view the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Punakaiki before continuing to Greymouth, the largest town on the West Coast.
Hotel: Kingsgate Hotel, Greymouth. B D
Day 14: TranzAlpine - Christchurch
Visit the historic village of Shantytown for a ride on the vintage steam train. At Greymouth, board the TranzAlpine, one of the top 6 train journeys in the world, to travel through the Southern Alps to Christchurch.
Hotel: Heartland Hotel Cotswold, Christchurch. B D
Day 15: Depart Christchurch
'Free Time' in Christchurch until we transfer you to Christchurch Airport
for your onward flight. B
Additional Details
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS 2012/2013 (Valid: 01 Apr 2012 to 31 Mar 2013)
To ensure your holiday is filled with memorable experiences, we have included a range of quality Optional Excursions for you to choose from and partake in, if you wish, during your holiday. We understand that everyone is an individual, and have therefore allowed some free time for you to experience different types of touring. These have not been included in the tour fare as we realise they may not appeal to all people. Our selection of optional excursions include scenic flights, helicopter rides, cruises, dinners, ballooning, fishing trips, four wheel drive tours, cultural experiences, and even camel riding.
Bookings
The excursions can be booked through your Tour Director. You will be asked during the early part of your tour to name those that you may wish to join, as advance reservations are often necessary. Please note that occasionally weather or seasonal conditions may not permit their operation. Some also depend on a minimum number of participants and suitable time being available.
Prices
Prices are valid from 01 April 2012, are in New Zealand dollars and may be subject to change. Please note that reduced rates for pensioners may apply on some tours. Prices are inclusive of GST.
BAY OF ISLANDS
DISCOVER CAPE REINGA VIA NINETY MILE BEACH
PRICE: ADULT $152.00 / CHILD $87.50
This is a full day to explore the magnificent natural wonders of the North. See the grandeur of the mighty Kauri trees, the expanse of Ninety Mile Beach and the mystique of Cape Reinga. Lunch is included.
DOLPHIN ECO ENCOUNTER INCL. SWIM
PRICE: ADULT $105.00 / CHILD $52.50
This half day trip takes you to where you can get close to the Dolphins. Travel on a fast water-jet powered catamaran, there is great viewing from the deck areas. You may even have the opportunity to swim with the Dolphins! At times, you can also see Orcas, Whales, Penguins and other wildlife.
DISCOVER KERIKERI – HALF DAY AFTERNOON TOUR
PRICE: ADULT $55.00 / CHILD $27.50
Enjoy a relaxing tour of Kerikeri showcasing the finest local arts and crafts. This tour allows you to interact with local artists as they create amazing work made from local materials.
DARRYL'S DINNER CRUISE
PRICES ADULT $95.00 / CHILD $35.00
Relax with a scenic cruise down the Waitangi River while enjoying a drink from the well-stocked bar. Wind through to Haruru Falls, where dinner is prepared and served aboard the boat, the Ratanui.
SALT AIR 20 MINUTE HOLE IN THE ROCK FLIGHT
PRICE: $220.00
Take a helicopter scenic flight over the crystal clear waters of the Bay of Islands out to the "Hole in the Rock". The return flight will encompass the townships of Russell, Paihia and Waitangi.
Or 30 MINUTE BAY OF ISLANDS COASTAL DISCOVERY FLIGHT PRICE: $305.00
Take the opportunity to explore a little more of the stunning coastline of the Bay of Islands region, and fly north over the coastal settlements and beautiful beaches of Takou Bay, Tapuaetahi, Mahineapua, Matauri Bay & the Cavilli Islands. Return via the Kerikeri Inlet and the townships of Kerikeri and Waitangi.
OR 1/2 DAY CAPE REINGA BY AIR & 4WD TOUR
PRICE: $425.00
See some of the most spectacular scenery New Zealand has to offer. Fly 1 hour up the West Coast, spend 21/2 hours exploring the very top of New Zealand in a four wheel drive, then 1 hour flying back down the East Coast
ROTORUA
RAINBOW SPRINGS & KIWI ENCOUNTER
PRICE: ADULT $35.00 / CHILD $22.50
RAINBOW SPRINGS
Nestled amongst a spectacular native bush setting with spring fed pools of Rainbow trout, take a guided tour through a huge array of native flora and fauna including Tuatara – the magnificent living dinosaur!
KIWI ENCOUNTER
Get up close to the New Zealand national icon and take a behind the scenes glimpse of kiwi conservation in action. Watch kiwi as they forage for food in their natural environment – who knows you may even be lucky enough to see the next generation arrive!
KAWARAU JET BOAT
PRICE: ADULT $74.00 / CHILD $54.00
Enjoy a 30 minute speed, spins and adrenalin jet boat ride across Lake Rotorua to the sanctuary Island of Mokoia. Listen to the local guides tales.
HALF DAY TROUT FISHING TOUR
PRICE: $145.00 per person for Light Tackle Trolling $265.00 per person for Fly Fishing
Includes 2 hours of fishing, guide & tackle, light refreshments.
HELI PRO LAKE VIEWS SCENIC FLIGHT
PRICE: $195.00
This flight takes in Lakes Rotorua, Okataina, Tarawera, Green and Blue Lakes, returning via Whakarewarewa and Rotorua City. Approx 15 min.
HELI PRO MT TARAWERA DIRECT
PRICE: $340.00
One of our most popular flights. Breathtaking views of the craters formed by the eruption of 1886, returning via Whakarewarewa and Rotorua City. Approx 25 min.
FLOATPLANE SCENIC AIR TOURS
CITY FLIGHT PRICE: $80.00
CRATER LAKES FLIGHT PRICE: $155.00
MT. TARAWERA VOLANCO PRICE: $195.00
WHITE ISLAND ACTIVE VOLCANO PRICE: $535.00
ORAKEI KORAKO LANDING & TOUR PRICE: $445.00
Choose from five different floatplane flights that showcase Rotorua with spectacular views.
ROTORUA DUCK – ROTORUA CITY AND LAKES TOUR
PRICE: ADULT $68.00 / CHILD $38.00
Discover Rotorua's spectacular lakes area from the comfort of a fully restored World War II amphibious vehicle, able to travel on land and water.
BLUE BATHS CABARET SHOW
PRICE: ADULT $125.00 / CHILD $75.00
A 3 hour Dinner Show with a 3 course dinner, taking you on a sweeping journey of the iconic Blue Baths 75 year history.
WELLINGTON
ZEALANDIA – THE KARORI SANCTUARY BY NIGHT
PRICE: ADULT $92.00 / CHILD $36.00
A night tour at Zealandia provides the opportunity to hear the dusk chorus before the nocturnal anuimals come to life. Listen for the calls of the little spotted Kiwi, Weka and Morepork – and if your lucky, see a spotted Kiwi.
ZEALANDIA – GENERAL ADMISSION
PRICE: ADULT $28.50 / CHILD $14.50
TEKAPO
AIR SAFARIS - THE GRAND TRAVERSE SCENIC FLIGHT
PRICE: ADULT $325.00 / CHILD $215.00
Explore the alpine wonderland of the Southern Alps' highest peaks and glacial lakes on this 45 minute scenic flight.
DUNEDIN
SPEIGHT'S BREWERY TOUR
PRICE: ADULT $23.00 / CHILD $10.00
Take a guided tour through one of the most famous breweries in New Zealand. A tour would not be complete without a tasting of what locals call "The Pride of the South"!
MONARCH WILDLIFE CRUISE
PRICE: ADULT $139.00 / CHILD $52.00
Tour Otago Peninsula by coach, Tairoa Head wildlife cruise, guided land tour of yellow-eyed Penguin Reserve, cruise Otago Harbour back to Dunedin or return by coach.
CADBURY WORLD TOUR
PRICE: ADULT $20.00 / CHILD $13.00
Enjoy a guided tour through one of the world's best known chocolate factories. Of special interest is the chocolate water fall...
TAIERI GORGE RAILWAY
PRICE: ADULT $84.00 / CHILD $22.00
Taieri Gorge Railway is one of the world's great train trips, taking passengers from the hustle and bustle of Dunedin's city centre to the rugged mountain interior of Central Otago, and back. Travel in comfort, cross magnificent stone and wrought iron viaducts, travel through a series of tunnels with rock walls only inches from the side of the train.
TE ANAU
GLOW WORM CAVES TOUR
PRICE: ADULT $70.00 / CHILD $22.00
Enjoy a guided tour through the limestone caverns, waterfalls and the glow-worm grotto. There is time available to see the Display centre inside Cavern House and take the short walk along the shores of Lake Te Anau.
AIR FIORDLAND MILFORD SOUND SCENIC FLIGHT
PRICE: ADULT $370.00 / CHILD $200.00
A 45 minute, one way scenic flight from Milford Sound. Including courtesy transfers from your hotel.
FIORDLAND CINEMA
PRICES: PACKAGE FOR TWO $60.00 PACKAGE FOR ONE $47.50
ATA WHENUA SCREENING ONLY $10.00
Sit back in the comfort of the custom designed, large screen cinema and prepare to be overwhelmed by the staggering beauty of the Fiordland World Heritage Status Wilderness showcased in Ata Whenua - Shadowland.
QUEENSTOWN
QUEENSTOWN RAFTING KAWARAU RIVER RAFTING
PRICE: $195.00
4 hours including transfer to Cavell's rafting lodge to collect your wetsuit and other rafting equipment. (Rafting not available to children under 13 years.)
SHOTOVER JET BOAT RIDE
PRICE: ADULT $119.00 / CHILD $69.00
Enjoy a 30-minute jet boat ride down the mighty Shotover River and through Shotover Canyon with the only company permitted to operate in this area. (Duration: 1.5 hours in total)
SKYLINE RESTAURANT
PRICE: ADULT $76.00 / CHILD $36.00 (Dinner & Gondola)
ADULT $25.00 / CHILD $14.00 (Gondola only)
Ride on the Gondola cableway, which whisks you smoothly up 450 metres as Queenstown drops away below. Breathtaking views from the top extend almost full circle. Enjoy a buffet dinner in a restaurant where you're guaranteed stunning views from every table.
KIWI HAKA
PRICE: ADULT $59.00 / CHILD $32.00 (Gondola & Show)
Ride on the Gondola cableway to the Skyline Restaurant. Enjoy a spiritual journey of Maori cultural and customs as told through traditional song and dance.
KIWI HAKA & SKYLINE RESTAURANT
PRICE: ADULT $110.00 / CHILD $54.00 (Gondola, Dinner & Show)
Why not combine both activities, and enjoy a sumptuous dinner followed by a dazzling cultural performance at the Skyline Restaurant…
NOMAD SAFARIS 4WD SAFARI
PRICE: ADULT $165.00 / CHILD $80.00
Be amazed by both the man-made and natural features on this 4-hour 4WD safari from Queenstown. The tour incorporates many memorable locations from The Lord of the Rings trilogy movies as well as an excellent overview of the diversity of scenery available in the Wakatipu district.
GARDEN TOURS
PRICE: ADULT $118.00 / CHILD $55.00
The rich soils and distinct four seasons are ideal growing conditions for gardens, which offer a unique fusion of New Zealand natives and more traditional English style plants.
QUEENSTOWN WINE TRAIL SUMMER SAMPLER
PRICE: ADULT $129.00 / CHILD $65.00
Your tour begins by travelling to the Gibbston Valley Winery for a light lunch followed by a guided tour and tasting in the underground cellar. Experience the cheese factory tour and tasting before continuing on to your second winery of the day. Transfers included.
REMARKABLE EXPERIENCE
PRICE: ADULT $150.00 / CHILD $83.00
Take part in a 3 hour journey aboard a grand old 1937 Chevrolet bus. Travelling with the unique, convertible top down enjoy a complete circuit of Queenstown. The final stop overlooks Lake Hayes and here you can taste wines from grapes grown onsite. Wine-tasting, Mediterranean platter tasting and hot drink included.
QUEENSTOWN HERITAGE – SKIPPERS CANYON
VISTA TOUR
PRICE: ADULT $130.00
You travel for 3 hours through historic Skippers Canyon in a comfortable 4WD minibus.
QUEENSTOWN HERITAGE – SKIPPERS CANYON TOUR
PRICE: ADULT $149.00
Enjoy all that this breathtaking area has to offer: stunning scenery, peace and quiet and an exciting history. Skippers Canyon is one of New Zealand's best kept secrets. On arrival at Skippers Point in the Mount Aurum Conservation Area enjoy a lovely morning tea.
FOX GLACIER
THE HELICOPTER LINE MOUNTAIN SCENIC SPECTACULAR
PRICE: ADULT $395.00 / CHILD $276.50
Discover the gigantic expanse of the Franz Josef and Fox snowfields on this 40 minute scenic flight. Highlights include a snow landing, Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers and Mt Cook.
THE HELICOPTER LINE TWIN GLACIER SCENIC FLIGHT
PRICE: ADULT $285.00 / CHILD $199.50
Explore the glaciers, an incredible natural phenomenon on this 30-minute scenic flight. Highlights include a snow landing at the head of the Franz Josef or Fox Glacier.
THE HELICOPTER LINE NEVE DISCOVERER
PRICE: ADULT $215.00 / CHILD $150.50
Lift off and fly up and over the Franz Josef or Fox Glacier to land amongst this alpine wonderland on a 20 minute scenic flight. Highlights include landing at the head of the Franz Josef or Fox Glacier and snow or icefall landing.
HAAST RIVER SAFARI
PRICE: ADULT $99.00 / CHILD $59.00
Travel on a purpose built fully enclosed river jet boat with front-loading access. Great visibility is ensured, yet you remain warm, dry and comfortable, making this a unique and safe experience suitable for anyone of any age to participate in and enjoy.
NOTE: Prices are subject to change. All details correct at time of printing. Not all optional excursions are available with your tour.