Inspiring Journeys 19 Day The Long White Cloud

On arrival in Christchurch, you will be transferred by private car to your hotel. Spend some time at leisure to relax or explore on your own. Perhaps visit the International Antarctic Centre or Orana Wildlife Park, New Zealand’s only open-range zoo. In the evening you will meet your journey Director for a welcome reception.

Today it's all aboard the TranzAlpine train. Rated as one of the world's great scenic railway journeys, you'll travel in comfort across the Canterbury Plains through the southern Alps. From Arthur's Pass, visit the small town of Hokitika, the heritage and cultural centre of the West Coast, and meet local greenstone (jade) carver for a jewellery demonstration. Later we continue to Franz Josef. Your eco-friendly accommodation is set amid native bush, with an emphasis on relaxation and rejuvenation. This evening, why not enjoy Franz Josef's local geothermal hot pools or perhaps massage?

*Due to a reduction in passenger numbers because of COVID-19 border restrictions, the TranzAlpine train is operating a limited schedule. This schedule may not coincide with some of the 2021/2022 departures. Please contact our sales consultants to discuss whether your chosen departure is affected by this.

Today you’ll explore Franz Josef Glacier with your Local Expert Guide on an interpretive tour. This afternoon you’ll have the opportunity to take an optional scenic flight over the Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers and Mt. Cook (weather permitting).

This morning it's time for an adventure as we travel in a purpose-built fully enclosed river jet boat and journey down the Haast River. After a lunch stop at Makarora, we head to Queenstown, taking time to stop to explore the historic gold mining village of Arrowtown on the Arrow River, with an orientation tour on arrival. Tonight, dinner is included at your hotel.

Explore exciting Queenstown your way! Take the opportunity to encounter a Queenstown legend and ride the Shotover Jet Boat or venture out on a 4WD Skippers Canyon Scenic Tour. If laid-back and relaxed is more your idea of fun then join a Wine Tour and sample some of Central Otago's award-winning wines, or visit our native birds at Queenstown's Kiwi Birdlife Park. Your AAT Kings Travel Director will assist you in booking all of your chosen optional experiences. This evening, enjoy a memorable Highlight Dinner at one of Queenstown's fine dining restaurants, against the backdrop of the beautiful snow-capped Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu.

Make the most of your extended stay in Queenstown. Why not sit back and enjoy a peaceful cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard New Zealand's oldest steamship, the TSS Earnslaw, to Walter Peak Station Otherwise, you could simply relax, shop or enjoy time at one of the many cafes and restaurants while soaking up the alpine views. Tonight, we have a highlight dinner at one of Queenstown's exclusive restaurants.

Travel south along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau on the shores of the South Island's largest lake. Later you'll travel through the rainforest of World Heritage Fiordland National Park, sighting glaciers and mountain ranges before driving through the hand-hewn Homer Tunnel to the amazing Mirror Lake. Afterwards, walk to see the Chasm on your way into Milford Sound and take some time to kayak this majestic fiord, considered by many as the Eighth Wonder of the World (Optional Experience - own expense). Tonight stay at the magical Milford Sound Lodge, with views of the Cleddau Valley.

Wake up to the startling beauty of Milford Sound. Board the Southern Discoveries vessel for a half day exploration of Milford Sound, often called the "eighth natural wonder of the world". Sail out to the Tasman Sea, looking for wildlife along the way, for a visit to the Underwater Observatory and the opportunity to go sea kayaking in Harrison Cove. This afternoon learn more about breathtaking Fiordland National Park with an informative talk by a local expert.

Leave the majestic Fiordland National Park for the picturesque South Otago.  Travel through the musical town of Gore, before arriving in Dunedin.

This morning visit Larnach Castle, learn about its colourful history and take in the breathtaking views from the Tower including a 360° view of Dunedin, Otago Peninsula and out to the Pacific Ocean. After this wonderful tour, the day is yours to explore and discover Dunedin. Your tour director can help with any recommendations or bookings you would like to make.

Travel up the East coast of the South Island returning to Christchurch for an in-depth sightseeing tour.

Travel along the rugged Pacific Ocean coast this morning to Kaikoura, where sperm whales can often be seen not far from shore. Pass the pink tinged crystallisation ponds of the Lake Grassmere Salt Works, then travel to pretty seaside fishing village of Picton. Later cross the Cook Strait to the North Island where you have a city sightseeing tour taking in New Zealand's parliament buildings, and a visit to Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. Tonight, enjoy dinner at your hotel.

You have a day at leisure to see the sights of your choice. Perhaps take a tour of Parliament or venture to Weta Workshop, the home of the special effects wizards whose work features in many blockbuster movies. Enjoy the cafe lifestyle in the capital city or simply shop till you drop, there is something in Wellington for everyone!

Travel through the fertile farming land of Wairarapa on to Napier in Hawke's Bay. Enjoy time to relax after the day's adventures before joining your journey director for dinner at your hotel.

Join a local guide for a city tour. You'll see several types of Art Deco architecture, the style in which Napier was rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1931. This evening, enjoy wine-tasting and dinner at one of the region's renowned wineries.

Enjoy a leisurely start to before continuing the journey to nearby Rotorua. Visit the spectacular Huka Falls, the only outlet of water from Lake Taupo, and then it's on to Rotorua. On arrival in Rotorua, an orientation tour takes in views of Lake Rotorua. Later, you'll visit the Whakarewarewa Living Village for an insight into Maori life and how they interact with geothermal activity. Tonight, an evening of culture, history and scrumptious food awaits you at the Tamaki Family Marae. Wander through the ancient forest village and learn about Maori art forms and traditions, followed by a concert featuring local performers. Experience an authentic Maori Hangi meal, steamed underground in the traditional way.

Rotorua's natural splendour is revealed in the crystal-clear mineral springs and native flora of Rainbow Springs Nature Park. You're sure to catch a glimpse of the shy, iconic national bird in the park's nocturnal kiwi enclosure, on a 'behind the scenes tour. Next up, ascending to the breathtaking Redwoods Treewalk, enjoy an elevated bird's eye view of the 115-year-old redwood giants from a series of 23 suspension bridges linking the majestic trees, a completely unique perspective.

Begin your day with a dazzling show during an exclusive five-star Eco Glowworm experience. Later in Auckland, get your bearings during a city tour, then spend the rest of the day at leisure to explore.

Thank you for touring with AAT Kings and New Zealand Coach Tours.