Taste of New Zealand [ZNN]

Starting from USD $2,095* per person.



Taste of New Zealand [ZNN]

Available Tour Dates

2010

April
25
May
23
September
12, 19, 26
October
10, 17, 24, 31
November
7, 14, 21
December
12, 19

* Availability Guaranteed
8 Days: Taste of New Zealand Visit the must see sights of New Zealand on AAT Kings' 8 day Taste of New Zealand, see Christchurch, Queenstown, Franz Josef, Rotorua, Auckland and more.

Spectacular sightseeing experiences

  • Famous TranzAlpine Train
  • View Franz Josef Glacier
  • Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki
  • Thermal Reserve Rotorua
  • Adventure capital Queenstown
  • Maori Hangi and concert
  • Breakfast on Lake Rotorua
  • Agrodome Sheep Show
  • Waitomo Glow Worm Grotto
  • Auckland, the 'City of Sails'
  • 1 Included Maori Cultural Experience
  • 1 Optional Maori Cultural Experience

Premium holiday inclusions

Transportation

  • Tour by luxury air-conditioned coach with 2-door access, restroom, seatbelts, reclining seats, panoramic windows

Professionally Escorted

  • Tour with an experienced, professional Tour Director and Tour Driver

Dining Inclusions

  • Full Buffet Breakfasts (7) B
  • Exciting Highlight Dinner (1) HD
  • Hotel Dinners (4) YOUR CHOICE (without hotel dinners)

Accommodation

  • Twin share rooms with private facilities in centrally located hotels

Plus

  • Welcome drink
  • Travel wallet and map
  • Airport transfers (Day 1 from Christchurch Airport - flights to arrive prior to 4.00pm; Day 5 to Rotorua - flights to arrive prior to 4.00pm; Day 8 to Auckland Airport - flights anytime)
  • Hotel porterage included

Day 1: Arrive Christchurch
Transfer from airport to hotel, check in, then see Christchurch your way. In the evening enjoy a welcome drink and dinner with your Tour Director.
Hotel: Novotel, Christchurch. D

Day 2: TranzAlpine - Punakaiki
We catch the TranzAlpine for a world class journey from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass. Experience the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes on arrival in Punakaiki, where we'll spend the night at our resort right on the waterfront.
Hotel: Punakaiki Resort, Punakaiki. B D

Day 3: Punakaiki - Franz Josef
Travel via Greymouth, the largest town on the West Coast, to Hokitika to visit a New Zealand native jade factory for a jewellery demonstration. Continue to Franz Josef Glacier. You can see it from the air on an optional scenic flight (weather permitting) or take a glacier hike!
Hotel: Franz Josef Glacier Hotel, Franz Josef. B D

Day 4: Franz Josef - Queenstown
Our experience list is spectacular today. Get your camera ready as we take in Haast Pass, Thunder Creek Falls, a small rainforest bush walk, Lake Wanaka, Lake Hawea and Lake Dunstan. We'll enjoy the tastes of sumptuous stone fruit at Cromwell - the stone fruit capital. Next up, we visit historic gold mining Arrowtown on the Arrow River, previously one of the world's richest rivers. A Queenstown orientation tour finishes our day. Tonight you have the option to dine at Skyline Restaurant at Bob's Peak via the Southern Hemisphere's steepest Gondola! And the Kiwi Haka Maori Show will top off a great night out.
Hotel: Millennium Hotel, Queenstown. B

Day 5: Queenstown - Rotorua
Fly to Rotorua (airfare not included). Meet your new Tour Director and fellow travellers this afternoon. The Realm of Tãne, Hangi and concert is our evening cultural highlight. Take an extraordinary journey through Maori culture, mythology and the story of our creation.
Hotel: Millennium Hotel, Rotorua, 2 nights. B HD

Day 6: Rotorua
Sparkling wine and a breakfast cruise on Lake Rotorua starts our day, followed by the Agrodome Sheep Show for a sample of farm life. Te Puia gives us an insight into Maori culture. We take a guided tour of the Geothermal Reserve then the afternoon is yours. B

Day 7: Rotorua - Auckland
We tour the Glow Worm Grotto and limestone caves at Waitomo Caves. Then trace the gorgeous Waikato River into Auckland for a tour of Mt. Eden, Bastian Point, Viaduct Harbour, Auckland Harbour Bridge and more.
Hotel: Stamford Plaza, Auckland. B D

Day 8: Depart Auckland
We will transfer you to Auckland Airport for your onward flight. B

Additional Details

FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER

The Helicopter Line Mountain Scenic Spectacular

Discover the gigantic expanse of the Franz Josef and Fox snowfields on this 40-minute scenic flight. Cross the main divide for breathtaking views of Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. Highlights include a snow landing, Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers and Mt Cook.

PRICE – ADULT NZ$395.00 / CHILD NZ$276.50

The Helicopter Line Twin Glacier Scenic Flight

From a mantle of pure white snow massive rivers of ice wind their way down glacier valleys – 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.

PRICE – ADULT NZ$285.00 / CHILD NZ$199.50

The Helicopter Line Neve Discoverer

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.

PRICE – ADULT NZ$210.00 / CHILD NZ$147.00

Haast River Safari

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. While the scenic value is terrific on a sunny day, the valley is equally awesome during rain with mist shrouding the forest, waterfalls in full flow. Learn from the local & highly experienced driver/guides about the physical attributes of this remarkable glacial valley, where temperate rainforest thrives.
Hear stories of true Kiwi spirit that enabled a community to survive on the edge of the wilderness in this rugged landscape that is truly one of New Zealand's last frontiers.

PRICE – ADULT NZ$95.00 / CHILD NZ$50.00

QUEENSTOWN

Queenstown Rafting Kawarau River Rafting

4 hours including transfer to Cavell’s rafting lodge to collect your wetsuit and other rafting equipment. Transfer to Kawarau River put-in point for extensive safety instructions and training in paddling techniques. Then raft the mighty Kawarau River! Hot showers, sauna and complimentary tea/coffee await you at the end of this adventure. Return transfer town. (Rafting not available to children under 13 years.)

PRICE – NZ$175.00

Shotover Jet Ride

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. Once aboard, your driver puts the famous big red jet boat through its paces, speeding past rocky outcrops with only inches to spare and twisting through narrow canyons. A major highlight is experiencing the famous “Shotover Jet turn” where your boat spins through a full 360 degrees turn. Includes return transfers from town. (Duration: 1.5 hours in total)

PRICE – ADULT NZ$109.00 / CHILD NZ$69.00

Dart River Jet Ride

The Wilderness Safari takes you on a spectacular 1 ½ hour jet boat journey through the Dart’s ever-changing braided river system, followed by an easy 30-40 minute guided walk through the ‘Heritage Trail’. After this enjoy the journey back to Queenstown onboard a 4WD coach via a scenic back-road route, stopping to view scenery that has formed the epic backdrop for many international films including ‘The Lord of the Rings’. Includes return transfers from your hotel. (Duration: 6 hours in total).

PRICE – ADULT NZ$199.00 / CHILD NZ$99.00

Skyline Restaurant

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, from Coronet Peak to the Remarkables and on to Cecil and Walter Peak on the other side of beautiful Lake Wakatipu. Enjoy a buffet dinner in a restaurant where you’re guaranteed stunning views from every table.

PRICES – ADULT NZ$76.00 / CHILD NZ$35.00 (Dinner & Gondola)
ADULT NZ$23.00 / CHILD NZ$12.00 (Gondola only)

Kiwi Haka

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. Set in an intimate theatre surrounded by traditional decorations and mythical carved legends of the Wakatipu and surrounding areas. Up to 8 to 10 performers will be on stage for group song and dance.

PRICE – ADULT NZ$55.00 / CHILD NZ$29.00 (Gondola & Show)

Kiwi Haka & Skyline Restaurant

Why not combine both activities, and enjoy a sumptuous dinner followed by a dazzling cultural performance at the Skyline Restaurant…

PRICE – ADULT NZ$108.00 / CHILD NZ$53.00 (Gondola, Dinner & Show)

Nomad Safaris 4WD Safari

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. A must do for all scenery and photography enthusiasts and LOTR lovers.

PRICE – ADULT NZ$149.00 / CHILD NZ$75.00

Garden Tours

The Queenstown area offers a dramatic and beautiful landscape and is an ideal environment for garden lovers. The rich soils and distinct four seasons are ideal growing conditions for gardens, which offer a unique fusion of both New Zealand natives and the more traditional English style plants. Let the private garden owners open your eyes to the splendours of their gardens.

PRICE – ADULT NZ$108.00 / CHILD NZ$50.00

Queenstown Wine Trail : Summer Sampler

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.

PRICE – ADULT NZ$136.00 / CHILD NZ$82.00

The Deer Park Scenic Adventure & LOTR Safari

Once you have been collected from your hotel, you will be taken on a fabulous alpine safari up The Deer Park stopping to feed the animals. You will visit some of the spectacular “Lord Of The Rings’ film locations and take in the stunning 360 degree views over Queenstown. It’s Magic!!

PRICE – ADULT NZ$75.00 / CHILD NZ$35.00 ** Cash Only **

Remarkable Experience

Take part in a 3 hour journey aboard a grand old 1937 Chevrolet bus, lovingly restored to all her former glory. Travelling with the unique, convertible top down enjoy a complete circuit of Queenstown through to picturesque Arrowtown. The final stop overlooks Lake Hayes and here you can taste wines from grapes grown onsite and indulge in mouth-watering cuisine in the cosy gallery or dine al fresco.

Wine-tasting, Mediterranean platter tasting and hot drink included.

PRICE – ADULT NZ$145.00 / CHILD NZ$78.00

Sail Queenstown

Come aboard NZL 14 and experience the magic of sailing on an America’s Cup racing yacht.
Get involved with no experience necessary. Take the helm, exert energy on the grinders or simply enjoy the stunning views of Queenstown from the pristine waters of Lake Wakatipu.

PRICE – ADULT NZ$150.00 / CHILD NZ$110.00

TE ANAU

Glow Worm Caves Tour

2.5 hour tour incorporating a cruise across Lake Te Anau to Cavern House where we view a multi-media production (outlining the underground journey and safety procedures. Enjoy a guided tour (in small groups) through the limestone caverns, waterfalls and the glowworm 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.

Complimentary tea & coffee is available at Cavern House.

PRICE – ADULT NZ$65.00 / CHILD NZ$20.00

Air Fiordland Milford Sound Scenic Flight

A 45-minute, one-way scenic flight from Milford Sound. Including courtesy transfers to your hotel. The friendly and experienced pilots will show you the famous Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park and provide informative commentary during your flights.

PRICE – ADULT NZ$375.00 / CHILD NZ$225.00

Fiordland Cinema

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.
The Ata Whenua Package includes: 2 movie tickets, 2 glasses of a local wine & a copy of the Ata Whenua – Shadowland dvd.

PRICES – PACKAGE FOR TWO NZ$60.00
PACKAGE FOR ONE NZ$45.00
ATA WHENUA SCREENING ONLY NZ$10.00

DUNEDIN

Speight’s Brewery Tour

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”!

PRICE-NZ$20.00

Monarch Wildlife Cruise

Scenic tour of 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. A wildlife packed afternoon.

PRICE – ADULT NZ$130.00 / CHILD NZ$50.00

Cadbury World Tour

Enjoy a guided tour through one of the world’s best known chocolate factories. A special interest is the chocolate water fall…..

PRICE – ADULT NZ$18.00 / CHILD NZ$12.00

Taieri Gorge Railway

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.

PRICE – NZ$72.00

TEKAPO

Air Safaris - The Grand Traverse Scenic Flight

Explore the alpine wonderland of the Southern Alps’ highest peaks and glacial lakes on this 45 minute scenic flight including Murchison Glacier, Tasman Glacier, Main Divide, Franz Joseph Glacier, Fox Glacier, Westland coastal rainforests and Mount Cook.

PRICE – ADULT NZ$295.00 / CHILD NZ$210.00

KAIKOURA

Wings Over Whales

Kaikoura is nestled between the towering mountains and the ocean, on the rugged East coast of the South Island. It is from this beautiful coastal village that our whale watching flight adventure begins. From the air you will experience the true scale and magic of the world’s largest mammal, the whale!

PRICE – ADULT NZ$165.00 / CHILD NZ$75.00

ROTORUA

Rainbow Springs & Kiwi Encounter
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!

PRICE - Rainbow Springs: ADULT NZ$25.00 / CHILD NZ$14.50
Kiwi Encounter: ADULT NZ$27.50 / CHILD NZ$17.50
Rainbow Springs & Kiwi Encounter Combo: ADULT NZ$40.00 / CHILD NZ$22.00

Kawarau Jetboat

Enjoy a jetboat ride across Lake Rotorua to the sanctuary Island of Mokoia. Disembark and let your local guide take you on an hour exploration of some of the sights including Hinemoa’s pool and native flora. Along the way listen to stories and legends of the local Maori people of the land.

PRICE – ADULT NZ$94.00 / CHILD NZ$64.00

Half Day Trout Fishing Tour

Includes 2 hours of fishing, guide & tackle, light refreshments, Polaroid photos of catch and courtesy transport. Min. 2 people per tour Max. 4 people per boat. If more than 4 people another boat will be required. Note: Fishing license included. Extended fishing times are available, subject to space. Price upon application.

PRICE – NZ$142.00 per person for Light Tackle Trolling
NZ$260.00 per person for Fly Fishing

Heli Pro: Lake Views Scenic Flight

This flight takes in Lakes Rotorua, Okataina, Tarawera, Green and Blue Lakes, returning via Whakarewarewa and Rotorua City. Approx 15 min.

PRICE – NZ$185.00

Heli Pro: Mokoia Flight

Including the highlights of our Lake Views flight, this trip offers an exclusive landing on Rotorua’s most historic volcanic feature, Mokoia Island. On the ground enjoy a walk amongst some of New Zealand’s rarest bird life such as the Stitchbird, North Island Robin and Saddleback as well as historical landmarks including Hinemoa’s pool/ Approx 35 min.

PRICE – NZ$235.00

Heli Pro: Mt Tarawera Direct

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.

PRICE – NZ$325.00

Please ask your tour director about any other flight options you may wish to do.

Float Plane Scenic Air Tours

Choose from five different floatplane flights that showcase Rotorua with spectacular views, departing from Lake Rotorua itself. Take a short journey over Rotorua City, Sulphur Bay, and the geysers of Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve, or journey further afield, landing at the Hidden Valley of Orakei Korako.

PRICES – CITY FLIGHT: ADULT NZ$70.00 / CHILD NZ$30.00
CRATER LAKES FLIGHT: ADULT NZ$125.00 / CHILD NZ$62.50
MT TARAWERA VOLCANO: ADULT NZ$185.00 / CHILD NZ$92.50
WHITE ISLAND ACTIVE VOLCANO: ADULT NZ$415.00 / CHILD NZ207.50
ORAKEI KORAKO LANDING & TOUR: ADULT NZ$395.00 / CHILD NZ$182.50

Rotorua Duck

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.
A 90 minute fun-filled and scenic journey that ventures onto the three Rotorua lakes, and is accompanied by an entertaining and informative commentary.

PRICE – ADULT NZ$62.00 / CHILD NZ$35.00

BAY OF ISLANDS

Cape Reinga via Ninety Mile Beach

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. There are numerous stops for you to take in the scenic highlights, including a 20 minute boardwalk through the Puketi Kauri Forest. Thunder along Ninety Mile Beach to the top of New Zealand and wander out to the lighthouse. Lunch included.

PRICE – ADULT NZ$135.00 / CHILD NZ$79.00

Dolphin Adventures

This half day trip takes you to where you can get close to the Dolphins. When you get to the Dolphins on their 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. Optional drop of on Urupukapuka Island at no extra cost. Enjoy the many walks and magnificent beaches.

PRICE – ADULT NZ$115.00 / CHILD NZ$85.00

Eco Experience Kerikeri – half day morning tour

Experience the best that Kerikeri offers in renewable and sustainable product and tourism. Meet and greet passionate locals who are taking valuable steps to protect this very special place for many years to come. The tour includes visits to: Living Nature – natural cosmetic and skincare products, Puketi Forest, Wharepuke Eco Garden & Ake Ake Vineyard which operates under organic principals.

PRICE – ADULT NZ$55.00 / CHILD NZ$27.50

Discover Kerikeri – half day afternoon tour

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. The tour includes visits to: The Country Store, Keri Blue Ceramics, The Kauri Workshop, Makana Chocolate Factory, and the Historic Stone Store & Kemp House.

PRICE – ADULT NZ$52.00 / CHILD NZ$26.00

Sea Kayaking

This half day option will take you to explore the Waitangi estuary. Explore Mangrove forests, an Oyster Farm and rock gardens. No experience is necessary. The skilled guides will familiarise you with paddling techniques and equipment, all at your own pace!

PRICE - NZ$60.00

Treaty of Waitangi Night Show

Combining Maori Culture, live drama, sound and light to tell the story from the coming of Kupe, the first Maori to discover this land, through to present day. Including events surrounding the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi.

PRICE - NZ$60.00

Tall Ship Sailing

Step back in time and experience the Bay of Islands as they did in years gone by. The R Tucker Thompson is a ship with her own special history. Built by locals in the tradition of the 150 year old schooners, she combines the safety and comfort of a modern vessel with her own unique charm. Enjoy a local sail, help with the ropes, or just kick back and relax! Cruise also includes a BBQ lunch.

PRICE – ADULT NZ$120.00 / CHILD NZ$60.00

Darryl’s Dinner Cruise

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. Soak up the ambience of the floodlit falls, and perhaps even come face to face with a Taniwha!

PRICES NZ$92.00 – Adult NZ$35.00 – Child

Salt Air

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.

PRICE – 20 MINUTE HOLE IN THE ROCK FLIGHT: NZ$195.00

Or

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.

PRICE - 30 MINUTE BAY OF ISLANDS COASTAL DISCOVERY FLIGHT: NZ$285.00

Or

See some of the most spectacular scenery New Zealand has to offer in a half day tour. Fly 1 hour up the West Coast, spend 2 ½ hours exploring the very top of New Zealand in a four wheel drive, then 1 hour flying back down the East Coast.

PRICE – ½ DAY CAPE REINGA BY AIR & 4WD TOUR: NZ$415.00

AUCKLAND – POST TOUR OPTIONS

Pride Of Auckland, Sailing Experience

Enjoy the activity that has made Auckland famous as the City of Sails. Sit back and relax and take in the sights listening to informative commentary, or help the professional crew steer the yacht and trim the sails. Cruise price also includes entry to the NZ National Maritime Museum.
Duration: 45 Minutes.

PRICE – ADULT NZ$48.00 / CHILD NZ$26.00

Pride Of Auckland, Coffee Cruise

Cruise Auckland’s magnificent Waitemata Harbour under sail. Sit back, relax and take in the sights or be as hands on as you want. Includes, Tea, Coffee and freshly baked muffins. Cruise price also includes entry to the NZ National Maritime Museum.
Duration: 1 Hour, 30 Minutes.

PRICE – ADULT NZ$58.00 / CHILD NZ$32.00

Pride Of Auckland, Lunch Cruise

Enjoy the specially prepared Sailors Lunch, along with refreshments for the licensed cash bar. Take in the sights of the city from the harbour while you listen to informative commentary. Cruise price also includes entry to the NZ National Maritime Museum.
Duration: 1 Hour, 30 Minutes.

PRICE – ADULT NZ$68.00 / CHILD NZ$37.00

2009-10

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