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New Zealand Dive Option 2 [NZD2]

14 Days / 12 Nights

Auckland, Tutukaka, Rotorua, Christchurch and Queenstown

Auckland's blend of landscape, Polynesian culture, glistening harbours and modern city environment creates an unbelievable lifestyle ranked amongst the best in the world. It is the largest city in New Zealand claiming one third of the population of the country.

Next, Enjoy a coach transfer from Auckland traveling along the coast to the quaint town of Tutukaka. The heads of this beautiful natural harbour open to the Pacific Ocean and the Poor Knights Islands marine reserve, a world-renowned diving location. There are some picturesque beaches within the harbour and the road north leads to several spectacular white-sand ocean beaches between forest-covered headlands.

Next is Rotorua, an exciting city with a vast history, tradition and culture. It is surrounded by volcanoes, lakes, parks and is a great place to go hiking or to view native birds and animals. The surrounding areas are a geothermal wonderland, with geysers, boiling mud pools, and steaming craters. Rotorua is also a showcase of Maori cultural activities and a place of exceptional natural beauty.

Then off to New Zealand's South Island. Christchurch is, known as the "Garden City", located on the east coast of the South Island. Christchurch - just like the rest of New Zealand - is a city of contrasts. It is a place where its residents continue to enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle amidst a natural environment world-renowned for its beauty. A growing cosmopolitan ambience also adds a touch of excitement without overt flashiness. Everywhere there is an understated elegance that speaks of times gone by and promises a future where anything is possible.

Then to Queenstown, which is known as the Adventure Capital of the World. A reputation earned through the actions of a number of locally residing thrill seekers who have developed several unbelievable, adrenalin stirring, sanity-reducing adventures in a wildly exciting environment. Queenstown has, over the years, quietly expanded into all sorts of attractions, including new wineries, art galleries, arts trails and challenging golf courses.

Travel Package Features

• Accommodation - Tutukaka (5 Nights), Auckland (1 Night), Rotorua (1 Night), Christchurch (2 Nights), Queenstown (3 Nights)
• International Flights - Los Angeles to Auckland, Auckland to Los Angeles
• New Zealand Domestic Flights - Rotorua to Christchurch, Christchurch to Queenstown, Queenstown to Auckland
• Day Tour - 4 Days of Diving with Dive Tututkaka
• Diving Inclusions - Lunches, Hot Drinks, Tanks, Weights & Instructor/Guide Services
• Diving Exclusions (not included) - Wetsuits, BCD's, Regulators, Masks, Fins, Snorkels, & Thermal Gear
• Day Tour - Deluxe Coach Tour Auckland to Rotorua - One Way - Full Day
• All Other Day Tours are Optional and not included
• Shuttle Transfers - Auckland Airport to Tutukaka Accommodation, Daily transfers between Accommodation & Dive Center, Tutukaka Accommodation to Auckland Hotel, Rotorua Hotel to Airport, Christchurch Airport to Hotel (return), Queenstown Airport to Hotel (return)
• This is an Organized Group Tour
• All Taxes and Fuel Levies (Except where noted)
• Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.

Travel Package Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 - (Fri) International Flight, Los Angeles to Auckland

Shortly after departing Los Angeles you will be served dinner and you will be given breakfast before landing in Auckland.

Relax, watch some movies, and try to get some sleep!

Please confirm with the airline at check-in that they have all your Frequent Flyer information on record (if applicable).

Day 2 - (Sun) Transfer by Coach from the Auckland Airport to your Accommodation in Tutukaka

Travel from Auckland Airport to your vacation accommodation in Tutukaka, New Zealand.

Please note: For airport transfers - 2 suitcases per person, extra pieces may be charged at $5.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $5.00 each.

Days 2 to 7 - (Sun-Sat) 5 Nights Accommodation in Tutukaka

Travel to your accommodation in Tutukaka, New Zealand where you will be staying for 5 nights.

The resort overlooks the whole of the Tutukaka Harbour with a breathtaking ocean panorama across the deep sea fishing grounds from the historic Poor Knights Islands to the Hen and Chicken Islands. A coastal area where man and nature combine to provide a whole host of things to do, swimming, boating, fishing, surfing, scuba diving, sight-seeing, line fishing trips, deep sea fishing, exciting beaches to discover and explore.

Days 3 to 6 - (Mon-Thur) Scuba Dive with Dive Tutukaka at the Poor Knights Islands

Go diving with Dive Tutukaka New Zealand's premier full-service dive charter operator.

Dive Tutukaka is New Zealand's premier full-service dive charter operator. The Poor Knights Islands are on Jacques Cousteau's list of top 10 dive sites in the world! The turbulent sunlit waters and kelp forests on the upper reaches of the tumbling 'giant staircase', to the waters of the islands' many caves, offer an extraordinary variety of underwater experiences. There are sponge gardens and gorgonian fields inhabited by a myriad of fish, shellfish, urchins and anemones. The islands' famous arches are fascinating to explore. In the warmer months, stingrays can be seen cruising the waters of the archways.

Day 7 - (Fri) Shuttle Transfer to Auckland Accommodation

Travel from your vacation accommodation in Tutukaka, New Zealand, to Auckland Airport.

Please note: For airport transfers - 2 suitcases per person, extra pieces may be charged at $5.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $5.00 each.

Days 7 to 8 - (Fri-Sat) - 1 Night Accommodation in Auckland

Travel to your accommodation in Auckland, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.

Auckland is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, regularly voted one of the best lifestyle cities in the world– renowned as that 'City Of Sails.' Dramatic landscapes and seascapes provide a diverse playground in which a compelling range of attractions are available. Visitors come to enjoy an array of exciting entertainment, leisure, culture and dining possibilities in New Zealand's largest city.

Day 8 - (Sat) Deluxe Coach Tour - Auckland to Rotorua - One Way - Full Day

Experience New Zealand's rich cultural heritage and the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua, plus a trip through the famous glowworm caves at Waitomo, on this full day sightseeing tour by deluxe luxury coach.

Depart Auckland: Travel the main Southern Highway through small rural townships steeped in early pioneer history. Your host serves morning tea during this sector.

<B>Waikato:</B> Travel through New Zealand's largest dairy and sheep farming province. See the small farming settlements on the outskirts of Hamilton City, as you travel towards King Country, birthplace of the Maori Monarchy.

<B>Waitomo Glow Worm Caves:</B> Join a guided tour through this world-famous cave formation, climaxed by drifting silently in a boat through a glow worm cavern lit up with thousands of tiny glow worm lights.

<B>Light Lunch:</B> Served on-board as we make our way to Rotorua through magnificent rural farmland with its vast numbers of grazing animals.

<B>Rotorua: </B>New Zealand's highest city, 305 meters (1000 feet) above sea level, located inside the rim of a volcanic crater. An area of great geothermal activity where you will visit the following attractions:

<B>Agrodome Farm Tour:</B> An introduction to New Zealand farming, with a 45-minute tour of an authentic working farm in all-weather, all-terrain vehicles. Watch a sheep being shorn and hand-feed the animals.

<B>Lake Rotorua:</B> Drive through the foreshore park past the hundreds of ducks and swans. Then travel through the beautiful historic Government Gardens.

<B>Te Puia Institute (Maori Arts, Crafts & Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve):</B> One of Rotorua's most famous attractions. See woodcarving, weaving displays, Maori village and the thermal valley with the famous Pohutu Geyser, fumaroles, colourful silica deposits and boiling mud pools.

This tour ends in Rotorua.

Days 8 to 9 - (Sat - Sun) - 1 Night Accommodation in Rotorua

Travel to your accommodation in Rotorua, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.

Located on the shores of Lake Rotorua your accommodation is only a short walk to the city centre, convention centre, cafes and restaurants. Here in the heartland of New Zealand's Maori culture you'll experience an enveloping warmth, proud spirit, deep sense of history and a quick humour. Picturesque cobbled and lantern lined streetways and striking Tudor architecture celebrates New Zealand's significant colonial history. Travel the region by mountain bike or participate in local bush walks.

Upgrade Available (extra cost):
Lake View Room

Day 9 (Sun) - Shuttle Transfer from Rotorua Hotel to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Rotorua, New Zealand, to Napier.

Please note: For airport transfers - 2 suitcases per person, extra pieces may be charged at $5.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $5.00 each.

Day 9 (Sun) - Domestic Flight- Rotorua to Christchurch

Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Rotorua to Christchurch (South Island).

Day 9 (Sun) - Shuttle Transfer Airport to Christchurch Hotel

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Please note: For airport transfers - 2 suitcases per person, extra pieces may be charged at $5.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $5.00 each.

Days 9 to 11 (Sun-Tues) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Christchurch

Travel to your accommodation in Christchurch, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Your 3 Star vacation accommodation in Christchurch, is located on New Zealand's South Island. Superbly situated in the very heart of this historic garden city, your accommodation in Christchurch is located just off Cathedral Square. Close to cafes, restaurants, museums and many of Christchurch's most popular attractions. It is the newest hotel in the city and offers 155 spacious guest rooms, a modern bar and restaurant as well and an intimate meeting room. All rooms feature views overlooking the city as well as broadband internet access.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Alpine Safari

See the spectacular mountain vistas of Arthur's Pass National Park and immerse yourself in New Zealand's high country scenery on this journey through the South Island. You'll discover breathtaking mountain landscapes and alpine forests on personal, up close encounters most people never get to witness.

Your day begins with a hotel pick up to the train station for boarding on the famous TranzAlpine train, rated one of the top six train journeys in the world. This scenic rail experience takes you westward across the rich agricultural belt of the Canterbury Plains, river canyons, tunnels and viaducts to the grand mountains of the Southern Alps and Arthur's Pass.

At Arthur's Pass village you will meet your guide, a friendly and professional tour leader who will give you profound insight into each stop of the day. You will have the opportunity to:

- View the pristine Waimakariri River and its unique braided river system
- Explore the alpine forest, crystal rivers and mountain vistas on short walks through Arthur's Pass National Park
- Enjoy lunch at a historic high country hotel
- Follow the old stage coach route and view the spectacular Otira Gorge, a testament to the road builders of the 1860’s and the route taken by the Maori in their quest for greenstone
- Visit Cave Stream, where underground limestone cliffs, gorges and craggy outcrops await to be discovered. This area was also used for the filming of C.S. Lewis’s – “The Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe”
- Visit the incredible Castle Hill rocks, unique rock formations and sacred landmarks to the Maori

Your journey ends with a deluxe mini van trip back to Christchurch, traveling via sub-alpine Porter's Pass and the Canterbury Plains.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Highlights Tour

Join this 'must do' tour of historical places, spectacular sights and beautiful parks with informative commentary by your driver guide

Tour highlights the Central Landmarks in Christchurch Including Cathedral Square, Town Hall, Bridge of Remembrance, Christ's College and original Provincial Government buildings.

Also included are:

THE AVON RIVER: Travel along the banks of this beautiful tree lined waterway.

CANTERBURY MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY: Pause for a short time to view the Maori and European exhibits on display.

MONA VALE: Walk through these beautiful gardens past the magnificent mansion located alongside the Avon River. In summer months see a stunning rose display planted for the international Rose World Conference held in 1994.

SIGN OF THE TAKAHE: Travel via Hagley Park up to the Port Hills through the exclusive hillside residential area of Cashmere, stopping at this famous landmark for views across the Canterbury Plains (on clear days).

Tour Operated daily and includes pickup from hotel and return. 1/2 Day tour.

Photo Credit: Christchurch City Libraries

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Lord of the Rings

Journey to the remote and beautiful Mt Potts high country station, home of Mt Sunday.

<a href="//youtu.be/T6fIgj5_Y64" target="_blank"><img src="//abt-aus-images.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Lord-of-the-Rings-Edoras-Tour-New-Zealand.jpg" width="350" height="197" class="alignleft"></a>

See how this peaceful mountain was transformed into Edoras, the capital city of the Rohan people in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Immerse yourself in the natural unspoilt beauty of the high country's sparkling clear lakes, glistening blue rivers and fresh mountain air.

This amazing day out includes 4wd access onto Mt Sunday/Edoras itself, a delicious champagne picnic lunch, full running commentary from our friendly and knowledgeable Kiwi tour guides and spectacular scenery you will never forget. You don't have to be a Lord of the Rings fan to enjoy this amazing day out!

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Akaroa

Visit the beautiful unspoiled old French whaling depot of Akaroa. The charm and serenity of Akaroa will relax and amaze you.

This morning you will be collected from your accommodation. Travel to Akaroa via Sign of Takahe, Sign of Kiwi, Governers Bay, Gebbies Pass, Lake Forsyth and Little River. Stop at the Hill Top to experience panoramic views of Akaroa Harbour. Visit the cheese factory at Barry's Bay and sample some fine New Zealand cheese

Lunch will be taken at Bully Hayes a popular restaurant on the water front in the heart of Akaroa with a wide choice of New Zealand food available. Following lunch you have the choice of either a two hour cruise on the Canterbury Cat exploring the delights of Akaroa Harbour and sighting dolphins, penguins and seals, or a game of golf can be arranged on the picturesque Akaroa Golf Course.

As an alternative to the cruise or golf, horse trekking on Banks Peninsula is available for your enjoyment or simply explore the charm and serenity of Akaroa
On the return journey to Christchurch a stop will be made at Birdling Flat on the Kaitorete Spit. This stony beach at the entrance to Lake Forsyth provides a commanding view of the southern facing cliffs of Banks Peninsula. An interesting selection of pebbles and semi-precious stones can be found on the beach. Full Day

Day 11 - (Tues) - Shuttle Transfer Airport to Hotel

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Please note: For airport transfers - 2 suitcases per person, extra pieces may be charged at $5.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $5.00 each.

Day 11 - (Tues) Domestic Flight - Christchurch to Queenstown

Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Christchurch to Queenstown (South Island).

Day 11 - (Tues) - Shuttle Transfer from Airport to Hotel

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Queenstown, New Zealand.

Please note: For airport transfers - 2 suitcases per person, extra pieces may be charged at $5.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $5.00 each.

Days 11 to 14 - (Tues to Sat) - 3 Nights Accommodation in Queenstown

Travel to your accommodation in Queenstown, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 3 nights.

Your vacation accommodation is located near the shores of Lake Wakatipu, and only 3 minutes drive from the centre of town. The hotel features rooms most of which have spectacular views over the lake and the remarkable mountain range. Facilities include a range of hotel amenities that invite those who want to relax from their travel. These include an outdoor swimming pool, spa, sauna, gymnasium, restaurant, bar, conference rooms and a ski and boot drying room. A convenient shuttle service to the town centre is also available at own expense. Travel and explore the surroundings by visiting New Zealand's Milford Sound, Central Otago Wineries. For the nature lover, maybe enjoy a nice stroll on walking trails that meander along the lakes shores. In the evening perhaps dine whilst enjoying a Maori Concert and see powerful performances of The Haka and other songs of New Zealand custom.

Upgrade Available (extra cost):
Lake View Room

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Doubtful Sound

Doubtful Sound is a beautiful fiord; three times longer than Milford Sound and a surface area ten times larger with twisting arms. With its rugged peaks, verdant rainforest and twisting, hidden inlets, Doubtful Sound will take your breath away.

<a href="//youtu.be/QTgJ0qbDd-0" target="_blank"><img src="//abt-aus-images.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Doubtful-Sound-New-Zealand.jpg" width="350" height="197" class="alignleft"></a>

The only way you can to get to Doubtful Sound is to cruise across the picturesque Lake Manapouri, followed by a bus trip over Wilmot Pass - New Zealand's most expensive (and majestic) road.
Pause along the way to experience the dense Fiordland rainforest and view Doubtful Sound glistening below. This isolation makes this fiord a very special place, only those in the know get to see.
Once you arrive, you will board the Patea Explorer for a 3-hour cruise on Doubtful Sound - a spectacular pristine fiord. During the cruise, your knowledgeable and friendly skipper or nature guide will share with you their passion for the region. They’re always ready to answer questions, point out landmarks and provide all the information about the varied wildlife you may see, including dolphins, fur seals, and the rare Fiordland crested penguin.
Following the cruise, return to your Queenstown hotel by luxury coach.

<b>Operates:</b>
Daily
Departs 6:55am, Returns 7:30pm (approx.)

<b>Includes:</b>
- Transport by coach to/from Queenstown accommodation
- Lake cruise
- Fjord cruise
- Wildlife viewing
- Insightful commentary by nature guide

<b>Need to Know:</b>
Wear waterproof/warm clothing and non-slip shoes. Please bring sunglasses, sunscreen and camera. Due to the multi-leg journey and floating wharf access, guests will need to have a reasonable level of mobility. Because of the length of the tour, please bring a packed lunch. Food and drink available for purchase onboard.

Photo Credit: Tourism Media

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Hackett Canyon Swing

And now for something completely different... Remember the swing you had in your back yard? Well, The Ledge Sky Swing takes that to a whole new level.

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Once harnessed your lowered to the release 'station'. Let the thrill take over! As you swing away the biggest surprise is not knowing when you'll change from fall to swing. Just as your brain convinces you the fall will never stop, you begin arching out 400 metres over Queenstown.

The nightlife in Queenstown is famous for being fast and furious, so we decided to do the same with the Sky Swing. The Ledge Sky Swing is the only swing operating at night. It might pay to leave dinner to afterwards if you know what we mean.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Hackett Nevis Bungy

The Bungy that got the whole thing started in Queenstown; and then, set Queenstown up as the adventure-tourism capital of the world.

<a href="//youtu.be/gYqjEfa-XG8" target="_blank"><img src="//abt-aus-images.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Nevis-Bungy-Jump-Queenstown-New-Zealand.jpg" width="350" height="197" class="alignleft"></a>

</b>
With the Nevis Highwire Bungy, getting there is half the fun! The experience kicks off with a rugged 35 minute back-blocks 4x4 drive before you get harnessed up and board a shuttle which ferries you to the the Bungy Pod. For many, this would have to be the ultimate challenge. Make no mistake, the Nevis Highwire Bungy is not for the nervous - with a wild 134 metres (440 feet) drop, the river seems to rush towards you faster than you're rushing towards it!

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Once off the edge it's simply a matter of basking in the glory of what you have achieved, as well as coming to grips with the 8 ½ seconds of freefall! Tour is 4 hours in duration.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Gondola Ride

One of the first sights to captivate visitors to Queenstown is the distinctive outline of the Skyline complex high above town.


<a href="//youtu.be/1iQPRGL4SfM" target="_blank"><img src="//abt-aus-images.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Skyline-Gondola-Queenstown.jpg" width="350" height="197" class="alignleft"></a>

Located an easy 5 minute walk from central Queenstown and exclusively accessed by scenic gondola, Skyline Gondola, Restaurant & Luge is a must-see attraction during your visit to Queenstown. The best views in the region are found here, spread out in a spectacular 220 degree panorama, with breathtaking views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkable mountain range and across Lake Wakatipu to Cecil and Walter Peaks. It's truly magnificent and awe-inspiring!

Of course there's more to do than just admire the view! For an additional cost you can:
<ul><li>Enjoy a dinner or relax in the bar in the Skyline Stratosfare Restaurant. Casual dining is also available during the day in the Cafe. </li>
<li>Thrill seekers can hurtle down the winding downhill Skyline Luge. Purpose built Luge carts put you in complete control as you take on a half-mile of banked corners, tunnels and dippers. Once you’ve conquered the course, hop on the chairlift and do it all again, and again, and again! Gentle and leisurely or steep and adventurous, you'll be hooked.</li>
<li>Explore the southern night sky of Queenstown with a guided tour of the galaxy and learn about the stars, nebulae and planets that make up our solar system and beyond. </li></ul>

Ask your Destination Specialist about available combo packages to make your day at Skyline more enjoyable.

Various walking tracks can also be accessed from Skyline, from an easy 30 minute walk to a full day hike.

<b>Operates</b>
Daily. Stratosfare Restaurant closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Gondola rides operate from 9:30am to 8:30pm Monday, Thursday, Friday & Sunday. Gondola rides operate from 9:30am to 6:30pm Tuesday & Wednesday. Saturday operation hours are 8:50am to 8:30pm.

<b>Includes</b>
- Gondola ride

<b>Need to Know</b>
Gondola ride is approximately 7-10 minutes one way.

<b>Upgrades</b>
- Add a thrilling luge ride to your Gondola experience.
- Add the Taste of New Zealand buffet at Stratosfare Restaurant
- Stargazing evening event

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Wine Tour

Enjoy an afternoon exploring some of the award winning wineries in the Queenstown region.

<a href="//youtu.be/D69sj2-1hgY" target="_blank"><img src="//abt-aus-images.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Central-Otago-Wine-Trail-New-Zealand.jpg" width="350" height="197" class="alignleft"></a>

Take this afternoon tour and experience the true flavor of our local pinot noir and other wine varietals at three premium vineyards. Enjoy a guided tour through the vines and into New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave. This relaxing tour travels just a short distance from Queenstown where you will be given in-depth wine tastings and presentation at each vineyard.

You have plenty of time to unwind and get yourself a winery lunch (own expense) or sample a selection of local cheeses, craft beer, coffee (there is an opportunity to substitute wine tasting for beer at time of booking).

<b>Operates</b>
Daily (except Christmas, Boxing Day, Good Friday, & Easter)
Departs 12:00pm and Returns 4:30pm (approx.)

<b>Includes</b>
- Return transfers from hotel
- Hosted tasting at 3 wineries
- Underground wine cave tour
- 12+ wine tastings

<b>Need to Know</b>
Please bring money for Winery lunch. This experience can be catered to your dietary needs. Please advise of any special dietary requirements when completing your Traveler Information Form.

<b>Upgrades</b>
Private Wine & Food

Photo Credit: Southern Public Relations

Day 14 - (Fri) - Shuttle Transfer from Hotel to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Queenstown, New Zealand, to the Airport.

Please note: For airport transfers - 2 suitcases per person, extra pieces may be charged at $5.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $5.00 each.

Day 14 (Fri) - Domestic Flight - Queenstown to Auckland

Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Queenstown to Auckland (North Island).

Day 14 (Fri) - International Flight - Auckland to Los Angeles

Today depart Auckland and fly to the USA. Enjoy an in-flight dinner and movie with arrival in the USA. Note: you will be traveling back across the International Date Line. Gain that day back you lost on the way over, you actually arrive in the USA on the same day you leave Auckland.

Note: Flight may include a stop over in Australia.

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