Freedom Holidays New Zealand

Freedom Holidays
Scenic South
From Auckland to Christchurch Duration: 13 days | 12 nights
From $3,699.00
Take the time to enjoy all the stunning beauty that surrounds you in New Zealand. From day one this tour will not disappoint, with an insight into the traditional Maori culture in Rotorua, a tour of the nation's capital city Wellington including parliament buildings, world renowned TranzAlpine train and the lakeside settlement of Wanaka.
Holiday type: Coach & Rail Holidays
Departures: Daily
1

Auckland - Waitomo - Rotorua

Travel south through lush Waikato farmland to Waitomo Caves fro a boat ride under a galaxy of glow-worms. Continue east to Rotorua, steeped in Maori culture and history. Tonight enjoy a Maori Hangi (feast) and concert.  Stay 2 nights in Rotorua.

2

At Rotorua

This morning see roaring geysers and boiling mud pools at the thermal area, tame trout at the springs and performing sheep and dogs at the Agrodome. This afternoon is free - there are many activities to enjoy.  

3

Rotorua - Wellington

Drive south through exotic forests, past Wairakei's permanent mantle of steam, then to Lake Taupo. Skirt Lake Taupo, and cross the volcanic landscape of the Desert Road past the majestic peaks of Tongariro, Ngaruahoe and Ruapehu. Continue across the fertile plains of the Manawatu and along the rugged Kapiti coastline to Wellington.  Stay 2 nights in Wellington.

4

At Wellington

This morning a half day tour of the city will take in the Parliament Buildings and 'Beehive', Old St Paul's Cathedral, panoramic views of the harbour and city from Mt Victoria and a ride on the cable car. This afternoon is free, perhaps to visit Te Papa Museum. 

5

Wellington - Picton - Christchurch

Cross Cook Strait by ferry,to the Marlborough Sounds and Picton. The TranzCoastal train skims the spectacular coastline between the Kaikoura Ranges and the Pacific. Continue through North Canterbury sheep country to Christchurch. As you arrive in the evening, consider adding an extra day in our most 'English' city. Stay 1 night in Christchurch. 

6

Christchurch - Glaciers 

Aboard the renowned TranzAlpine train cross the Canterbury Plains to the mountains, where Arthur's Pass and Otira Tunnel lead to the West Coast.  Continue by coach along the narrow, bush clad, coastal plain.  Stay 2 nights in Fox or Franz Josef Glacier townships.

7

At Glaciers

A whole day is available for optional excursions on the Glacier, for bush walks or simply soak up the beauty of snow-capped mountains contrasting with the deep greens of the native bush.

8

Glaciers - Wanaka

Continue south into dense rain forest broken by rugged vistas. The Haast River guides you inland through the Haast Pass. Reach Lake Wanaka in the early afternoon. The rest of the day is free.  Stay 1 night in Wanaka.

9

Wanaka - Queenstown

A free morning in this beautiful resort town.  Continue this afternoon through the rugged Kawerau Gorge to Queenstown. Stay 2 nights in Queenstown.

10

At Queenstown

Today is free for you to enjoy this fabulous resort - we have included the Skyline Gondola in your tour. There are dozens of optional activities from thrilling jet boat rides to leisurely lake cruises, 4WD safaris and bungy jumping.  

11

Queenstown - Milford Sound - Te Anau

An early start around the southern shores of Lake Wakatipu to Lake Te Anau, then into Fiordland National Park. Pass through pristine beech forests and the Homer Tunnel to view the majesty of Miter Peak and Bowen Falls aboard a cruise on the Sound. Depart Milford Sound to return to Te Anau.  Stay 1 night in Te Anau.

12

Te Anau - Dunedin

This morning cross the Waimea Plains towards the farming community of Gore, then continue across the rolling hill country of Southland and South Otago to Dunedin, the 'Edinburgh of the South'. Today enjoy your Speights Brewery Tour. Consider staying an extra day.  Stay 1 night Dunedin.

13

Dunedin - Christchurch

Travel north through historic Oamaru, and seaside Timaru, then across the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch arriving early evening. Please note, no commentary is provided on this journey.

Holiday Pricing Share Twin Single Triple Breakfast
Bronze $3,969.00 $5,699.00 $3,699.00 $300.00
Silver $4,369.00 $6,449.00 $4,119.00 $350.00
Gold $4,639.00 $6,999.00 $4,299.00 $390.00

Rates valid until 30 September 2012. Rates from 1 September 2011 to 31 October 2011 are available on application.

 Please click here for Self-Drive option

Inclusions

12 nights accommodation

Coach Transport

Transfers within joruneys

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Maori Hangi & Concert

Te Puia Geothermal Experience

Rainbow Springs

Agrodome Sheep Show

Wellington City Tour

Interislander Ferry

TranzCoastal Train Journey

TranzAlpine Train Journey

Skyline Gondola - Queenstown

Milford Sound Cruise including lunch

Bonus is the option of changing the half day city tour for a full day Wairarapa Wine tour - Choice must be made at time of booking.