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New Zealand Dive Option 3 [NZD3]

16 Days / 14 Nights

Auckland, Tutukaka, Rotorua, Wellington, 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 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.

Next travel to Wellington, New Zealand's capital city, also known as the arts and culture capital. A special blend of heritage buildings, museums and galleries, fine food and live entertainment. The central city is nestled between a beautiful harbour and forested hills. Wildlife sanctuaries, islands, seaside villages, ocean beaches and regional parks provide huge scope for outdoor fun.

Christchurch is next, 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), Wellington (1 Night), Christchurch (2 night), Queenstown (4 Nights)
• International Flights - Los Angeles to Auckland, Auckland to Los Angeles
• New Zealand Domestic Flights - Rotorua to Wellington, Christchurch to Queenstown, Queenstown to Auckland
• Day Tours - 4 Days of Diving with Dive Tututkaka, Deluxe Coach Tour from Auckland to Rotorua, Interislander Tranz Coastal Cruise to Picton, Train Journey from Picton to Christchurch
• Shuttle Transfers - Auckland Airport to Tutukaka Accommodation, Daily transfers between Tutukaka Accomodation & Dive Center, Tutukaka Accommodation to Auckland Hotel, Rotorua Hotel to Airport, Wellington Airport to Accommodation, Christchurch Accommodation to Airport, Queenstown Airport to Accommodation (return)
• All Other Day Tours are Optional and not included
• 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 from Los Angeles to Auckland

Travel to New Zealand on your Vacation. After departing from Los Angeles you will be provided with an evening meal. You can relax, have a drink, watch a movie, review your itinerary or just rest. You will be given breakfast before landing in Auckland, New Zealand (you lose one day crossing the International Date Line but don't worry you'll catch it up again on your return flight to the USA)

The Qantas Boeing 747-400 is equipped with the latest entertainment features of any Airline. The overnight flight to New Zealand can be a good opportunity for sleeping or to watch the latest movies after your evening meal.

Please confirm with the airlines at Check-in that they have all your Frequent Flyer information on record.

Day 2 (Sun) - Shuttle Transfer from Auckland Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the 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 to Fri) - 5 Nights Accommodation 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 to Thur) - Dive with Dive Tutukaka

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 from Tutukaka to Auckland

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Tutukaka to the 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 - 1 Night Accommodation in Auckland

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

Your vacation accommodation in Auckland, New Zealand, is located on the city's spectacular Waitemata Harbour and features stunning water views, conference facilities, and a rooftop restaurant. Auckland's centre of entertainment, dining, and nightlife, the Viaduct Harbour precinct, is just a short walk away. Experience the rich New Zealand culture as you travel to Rotorua and its geothermal springs. Or maybe travel to New Zealand's Waitakere and Hunua Ranges, to the west and south of the city centre respectively, to take you deep into cool, peaceful rainforests.

Day 8 (Fri) - Luxury Coach Tour to Rotorua - Full Day - One Way

On your vacation travel by deluxe luxury coach to the Waitomo Glow-Worm Caves and the spectacular geothermal regions of Rotorua, New Zealand.

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

WAIKATO: Travel through New Zealand's largest dairy and sheep farming province. Travel the outskirts of Hamilton City via the small farming settlements towards the King Country, birthplace of the Maori Monarchy.

WAITOMO GLOW WORM CAVES: 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.

LIGHT LUNCH: Served on-board as we make our way to Rotorua through magnificent rural farmland with its vast numbers of grazing animals.

ROTORUA: 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. We visit the following attractions:

AGRODOME FARM TOUR: 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.

LAKE ROTORUA: Drive through the foreshore park past the hundreds of ducks and swans. Then through the beautiful historic Government Gardens.

TE PUIA INSTITUTE (MAORI ARTS & CRAFTS AND WHAKAREWAREWA THERMAL RESERVE): 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) 1 Night Accommodation 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 to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Rotorua, 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 9 (Sun) - Domestic Flight Rotorua to Wellington

Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Rotorua to Wellington (North Island).

Day 9 (Sun) - ShuttleTransfer from Airport to Wellington Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Wellington, 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 10 -Sun to Mon) - 1 Night Accommodation in Wellington

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

Your 4 Star vacation accommodation is located conveniently in the heart of Wellington, New Zealand. It is a short walk from Westpac Stadium, Te Papa Museum and the waterfront. Your vacation hotel has a direct elevator to Lambton Quay via a shopping arcade. Travel to New Zealand’s top wine regions, Wairarapa and Marlborough, which are only a short drive away. Or participate in adventure activities such as mountain biking, sailing, bushwalking and much more.

Day 10 (Mon) - Interisland Ferry from Wellington to Picton

The 92 km journey across Cook Strait between Wellington (North Island) and Picton (South Island) takes only 3 hours and has been described as "one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world".

The vessel offers a stunning view of the South Island's Kaikoura ranges and the opportunity to spot dolphins and sea birds.

In addition to the beautiful views the vessel offers Comfortable Passenger Lounges, Food Court, Bar, Coffee Counter, Children's Area, Nursery, Outdoor Observation Decks, Workstations, Movie Theatre and Souvenirs Shop.

Upgrade available to Kaitaki Plus available.

Day 10 (Mon) - Travel by Train from Picton to Christchurch

The Coastal Pacific train journey travels between the delightful port of Picton and Christchurch.

This 5.5 hour scenic feast is one of the world's most scenic train journeys. The Coastal Pacific travels through 22 tunnels and crosses 175 bridges, one of them being New Zealand’s only road-rail bridge.
This journey is a scenic feast of New Zealand, with the Kaikoura mountain ranges on one side of your train and the rugged Pacific Ocean coastline on the other. Travel through some of New Zealand’s finest horticultural and farmland areas, and see amazing wildlife such as dolphins, seals and penguins from the comfort of your train carriage.

Day 10 (Mon) - Taxi from Railway Station to Christchurch Accommodation (pay as you go)

Taxi transfer as per your own arrangements (pay as you go).

Days 10 to 12 (Mon to Wed) - 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.

Day 11 - Free Day to Explore Christchurch

Free time to rest, relax or explore.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Alpine Safari

Make the most of the spectacular rural and alpine regions of Canterbury. This Day Tour includes the world famous Tranz Alpine train journey, ranked as one of the top 6 in the world.

Today commences with a coach ride across the Canterbury Plains to the Waimakariri Gorge. Spray jackets, hats and lifejackets are issued to each passenger before boarding the a jet-boat for a ride up one of New Zealand's major snow-fed rivers. Weave in and out of rock faces, white water rapids and high walled rock canyons. From the headwaters of the Waimakariri Gorge you will then enjoy some four wheel driving action for a backcountry tour enroute to Te Kowhi Country Café (lunch). After lunch continue to Arthur's Pass. The return journey is on the famous TranzAlpine train which is rated one of the top six train journeys in the world. Travel through numerous tunnels, viaducts, river canyons and the rainforest of the Arthur's Pass National Park. Definitely a journey to remember.

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.

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

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

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!

Insider's Tip: Tram Tour Tip

Tram Tour of Christchurch

The 2.5 kilometre track takes about 25-minutes to complete and allows you to take in many of the ‘must see’ attractions. These include Cathedral Square, Aquarium of Discovery, The Arts Centre, The Art Gallery, Botanical Gardens, Canterbury Museum, Punting on the Avon, New Regent Street and Cathedral Junction to name just a few.

The last tram leaves Cathedral Square 30 minutes prior to closing time.

Insider's Tip: Cathedral Square Tip

Mingle with visitors and locals alike at the heart of Christchurch, Cathedral Square.

Take a short walk from your hotel to Cathedral Square, the heart of Christchurch. Located at the centre of the "four avenues" that form the boundaries of inner Christchurch and directly in front of the Christ Church Cathedral, the Square is home to public orators and entertainers and surrounded by historic buildings, including the old city post office. There are many restaurants, bars and cinemas all in the vicinity along with regular markets and several food stalls.

Cathedral Square is home to several historic Christchurch landmarks including The Godley Statue which was the first ever public statue in New Zealand. Erected in honor of the founder of Canterbury and cast from the metal of Russian guns used in the Crimean War the visit to this work of art is sure to be a memorable one! Be sure to check out a new addition, The Chalice. This hard to miss sculpture will be the towering inverted cone alongside the Cathedral. Including a World War One memorial, a four lime tree tribute to the four ships of Canterbury and the seven tree gift from the US Navy, The Square is definitely a place to pause and check out what Christchurch is about!

Day 12 (Wed) - Shuttle Transfer from Hotel to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Christchurch, 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 12 (Wed) - Domestic Flight Christchurch to Queenstown

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

Day 12 (Wed) - Shuttle Transfer from Airport to Accommodation

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 12 to 16 (Wed to Sun) - 4 Nights Accommodation in Queenstown

Travel to your accommodation in Queenstown, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 6 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. 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

Days 13, 14 & 15 - Free Days to Explore Queenstown

Free time to rest, relax or explore.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Doubtful Sound

When you discover Doubtful Sound you will be struck by its silence, a silence broken only by birdsong, or maybe the rushing of a distant waterfall.

Your Doubtful Sound adventure begins as you cruise the crystal clear waters of Lake Manapouri. Then it’s over Wilmot Pass, stopping along the way to experience some of Fiordland’s densest rainforest and to view the colourful alpine moss gardens.

On reaching Deep Cove, you will board our spacious catamaran for a three hour cruise that takes in the most dramatic scenery of Doubtful Sound. Our skippers provide a detailed commentary and point out highlights. Keep a look out for wildlife as bottlenose dolphins frequently come alongside our vessel, fur seals bask on the rocks around the fiord and rare penguins can at times be observed.

Full Day Tour includes Queenstown and Te Anau coach connections

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.


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, New Zealand. The best views in the region are found here spread out in a spectacular 220 degree panorama, with breathtaking views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables 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! Enjoy a dinner or relax in the bar in the Skyline Restaurant. Casual dining is also available during the day in the Cafe. Thrillseekers can hurtle down the winding downhill Skyline Luge - it`s the fastest fun on wheels! or maybe take in the challenge of AJ Hackett`s Ledge Bungy or Swing, or take off on a tandem parapente flight. Various walking tracks can also be accessed from Skyline, from an easy 30 minute walk to a full day hike.

Skyline was also a finalist in the `Best Visitor Attraction` in the New Zealand Tourism Awards in 1999 and 2001.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Dart River Safari

This jet boat adventure offers your senses a feast of spectacular natural beauty on a journey into the wilderness of a World Heritage area.

Your day begins with 1.5 hour journey on a jet boat through the Dart's river system. You'll be surrounded by beautiful snow-covered peaks, hidden valleys & waterfalls. Your day includes a guided walk (30-40 minutes) along the 'Heritage Trail' at Paradise. Your guide will provide you with informative & entertaining commentary about the ancient native beech forest. The forests of this region sit within a World Heritage Area, one of the only natural sites of its kind that is accessible to the public. Your guide details the fascinating history of this area from the days of Gondwanaland, to quests by Maori for prized pounamu, to the present day efforts of New Zealand's department of conservation for the preservation of the area. The day ends with a 4WD coach drive along a scenic back road. You will be entertained with stories of the countryside. On the ride home you will stop to view the scenery made famous by Peter Jackson in 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogies.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Wine Tour

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

Your tour operates with small groups (maximum of 22 people) that are suitable for first time tasters or wine connoisseurs. You will experience an in-depth introduction to four Queenstown wineries and an underground wine cave tour. Friendly, knowledgeable guides offer an understanding of the unique Central Otago wine growing conditions and wines offered. Travelling time is kept to a minimum, the pace is relaxed and wine always superb.

Departs 12:30pm daily. All year round. Allow 5 hours

Tour Includes:
Pick up from accommodation or central Queenstown
Tasting at the four wineries visited
Wine tasting in the unique underground wine cave
View of Queenstown's original bungy jump

Time for optional lunch (own expense) at Gibbston Valley Winery.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - TSS Earslaw

Relive the elegance of bygone days with a 1.5 hour cruise aboard a vintage steamship.

What better way to view the magnificent scenery around Lake Wakatipu (Queenstown) than by taking a cruise a board the last remaining coal fired passenger carrying vessels operating in the southern hemisphere.Affectionately known as the Lady of the Lake, this vessel has a special place in the hearts of Queenstown people. She has been transporting goods to remote settlements and conveying passengers on beautiful Lake Wakatipu since 1912.

Day 16 (Sun) - Shuttle Transfer from Queenstown Accommodation 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 16 (Sun) - Domestic Flight Queenstown to Auckland

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

Day 16 (Sun) - 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.

Your flight home will give you the opportunity to reflect on your New Zealand vacation. Please tell your friends if you have enjoyed the experience and direct them to "ABOUT AUSTRALIA " for information via our website at www.aboutaustralia.com