17 DAY GRAND KIWI. 17 DAY GRAND KIWI (AUCKLAND to CHRISTCHURCH) 1

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1 17 DAY GRAND KIWI (AUCKLAND to CHRISTCHURCH) 17 DAY GRAND KIWI (AUCKLAND to CHRISTCHURCH) 1 17 DAY GRAND KIWI Departure Point: Departure Time: Trip Code: Mercure Auckland Hotel 8 Customs Street, East Auckland am ANGKBC NOTE: If you are staying at the Mercure Windsor Hotel you will need to walk 140m to Mercure Auckland Hotel for your pickup point. DAY 1: AUCKLAND TO PAIHIA, BAY OF ISLANDS Kia Ora and welcome to your Grand Kiwi trip with Topdeck! Your NZ journey unfolds in Auckland, or Tamaki-Makau-Rau as it s known in Maori, meaning the maiden with a thousand lovers. It earned its name because it was coveted by many tribes, and let s face it, what s not to love! Crossing Auckland s scenic harbour and heading north, our first stop is at Parry Kauri Park to marvel at the magnificent Kauri tree, NZ s oldest and largest tree species dating back to Jurassic times. Then it s onto the seaside town of Paihia in the beautiful Bay of Islands islands, secluded bays, and an abundance of marine life - this is the picture perfect New Zealand you ve been dreaming about. Settle into your hotel and make the most of this evening at your own pace - relax by the pool, head into town for a meal and most importantly, get to know your new tour buddies! **Upgrade to overnight Rock the Boat option If you re keen to experience everything the bay has to offer, this cruise aboard New Zealand s largest houseboat is not to be missed. With a laid-back atmosphere and cosy bar, a fun night of laughs, music and good company is always on offer. If you consider yourself a shark, there s even a pool table competition! Spot satellites and shooting stars with the experienced crew, who ll take any chance to use their laser pointers to impress you with their knowledge of New Zealand s southern skies. As for hopeless nautical romantics, you can expect amazing views, golden sunsets and an open log fire - the vessel is lit up with candles too! Tanoa Hotel Paihia DAY 2: PAIHIA, BAY OF ISLANDS Today is yours to explore the fascinating Bay of Islands and there s a whole host of optional activities on offer. Adventure lovers can catamaran along the inner bay looking for dolphins*, kayak through mangrove forests to Haruru Falls*, or take a ride along 90 Mile Beach to Cape Reinga* and board down the Te Paki sand dunes. History buffs can take a step back in time and learn about the fascinating past of New Zealand at the Waitangi Treaty House*. There s also time to visit Russell, the oldest settlement in New Zealand, or hike to the Haruru Falls through native bush. Tonight swap stories about our day in the bay over a delicious Kiwi favourite - fish and chips! (B,D) Tanoa Hotel Paihia NOTE: Pack down to an overnight bag as tomorrow night you will be staying in a Traditional Maori Marae!

2 17 DAY GRAND KIWI (AUCKLAND to CHRISTCHURCH) 2 DAY 3: BAY OF ISLANDS TO ROTORUA (MARAE STAY) This morning we start our journey south. If the weather's nice, you'll enjoy a scenic walk to view Whangarei Falls before it's back to Auckland, the jewel of the North Island, where we break for lunch. Afterwards, we ll meet some more excited Topdeck travellers and together, we continue to the heartbeat of Maori culture in Aotearoa - Rotorua. This steamy thermal playground is renowned for its natural and cultural beauty and a distinct welcoming aroma in the air - breathe in that sulphuric goodness! Tonight we ll be staying in a traditional Maori Marae where the elders will welcome us on arrival in their timehonoured style; this stay is an opportunity to experience the real side of Maori Culture, as it is today. After a hearty traditional family style dinner, our Whanau host will enlighten us through some Maori history and legend before we are treated to an exclusive cultural performance by the Te Arawa people. We also interact and learn facets of the cultural performance including the actions of various Haka and Poi. The Haka that we learn is not a traditional one (as this would break tribal protocol), instead it is one that was written specifically for Topdeck. All of this traditional Maori entertainment, education and performance by a local Kapa Haka group exclusively for us this certainly is the real deal! Later, doze off to sleep eye to eye as you check out all of the carvings inside the Marae up close and personal. (B, D) Ta Heke Marae Rotorua DAY 4: ROTORUA We say goodbye to the Marae after breakfast and the rest of the day is yours to explore, and there are countless options on offer in this beautiful area. Relax in the famous thermal spa pools*, or indulge in a rejuvenating massage*. If you're looking for adventure, there's also mountain biking*, white water rafting*, the original OGO Zorb* or tackle some unique activities on offer at the Agroventures adventure hub*. Another option is The Hobbiton Movie Set Tour*, an absolute must-do for Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit fans. This fascinating tour takes you through the real middle-earth as you view the set through Frodo s eyes - exactly as it appeared in the films! Get lost among the Hobbit holes, Green Dragon Inn, the Mill and the Party Tree whilst admiring the picturesque landscape on this privately owned, working New Zealand farm. A little slice of luxury tonight as we settle into Rotorua s largest hotel, set right on the shores of beautiful Lake Rotorua and just a short stroll from the vibrant city centre. (B) Sudima Hotel Rotorua

3 17 DAY GRAND KIWI (AUCKLAND to CHRISTCHURCH) 3 DAY 5: ROTORUA TO TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK Travelling south we divert from the highway to explore the uniquely different landscape of Wai-O-Tapu (Maori for sacred waters), an active geothermal area located in the Taupo Volcanic Zone. The vibrant colours of the hot springs along the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Track make for the most spectacular Facebook cover photo! A visit here would not be complete without taking the short detour to see (and hear) the gurgling, bubbling Mud Pool. Next up, it s onwards to the raging waters of Huka Falls before reaching Lake Taupo, New Zealand s largest lake. Hanging above the free flowing Waikato River, the Taupo Bungy is a must for those game enough to take the plunge*! We make a stop and have the opportunity for a swim at Spa Park, a hot stream that flows into the mighty Waikato River. As you get further away from the stream, you ll feel the cooler water - move around to find your ideal temperature. After some time to enjoy Taupo, we journey toward the vast volcanic plateau of World Heritage listed Tongariro National Park. The three mountains at the heart of the park - Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu - have cultural and religious significance for the Maori people. Here we bunk down for the next two nights in a true alpine retreat nestled on the edge of Whakapapa Village. You ll have the opportunity to relax in the sauna and spa or unwind with a drink in the Terrace Bar by the fire. We ll top the night off with a hearty country style meal, but leave room for desert you ll be introduced to a Kiwi favourite tonight, the Pavlova! (B, D) Skotel Alpine Resort Tongariro National Park DAY 6: TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK With dual cultural and natural heritage status, and often described as one of the best full day hikes in NZ, the Tongariro Crossing * is yours to take on today if you choose. Two active volcanoes, a cold mountain spring, lava flows, an active crater, emerald lakes and hot springs combine to make this an enjoyable and memorable trip into a most interesting area of the park (8 hour hike transfers at own expense, seasonal and subject to weather conditions). Around the Village there are also a number of many shorter walking tracks for you to experience the grandeur of Tongariro National Park. If hiking is not your thing, there are a variety of other optional activities available including Quad Biking*, Mountain Biking*, Kayaking*, even Skiing in winter* (check with your crew for the best deals). After a full day s exploring, take a leisurely stroll into the village where numerous options are on offer for dinner*. After a full day spent exploring, head back for another relaxing night at the mountain lodge perfect! (B) Skotel Alpine Resort Tongariro National Park

4 17 DAY GRAND KIWI (AUCKLAND to CHRISTCHURCH) 4 DAY 7: TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK TO WELLINGTON We leave the tranquil setting of Tongariro behind this morning on our way towards the New Zealand capital, Wellington. Wellington's been crowned the '4th coolest city' in the world to visit and you're about to find out why. Before arriving at our accommodation we visit Weta Cave, the mini-museum and theaterette of Weta - the Academy Award winning design and special effects company. Here you ll get not only a behind-thescenes look at Weta and the studio part of movie making but a real insight into the creativity and imagination that goes into making these works of art. There s even the opportunity to come face to face with some of the characters, props and displays from your favourite movies. After checking into our accommodation, why not Visit Te Papa - the NZ National Museum - with six brilliant levels of interactive history, art and all round awesomeness! For all you cool city cats, there s the funky designer shops and contemporary art galleries by day, stylish cocktail bars and award-winning restaurants by night it s this combination that make Wellington the most vibrant city in NZ! (B) Travelodge Hotel Wellington DAY 8: WELLINGTON TO NELSON We jump on the inter-islander ferry across Cook Strait today where the blue waters of the Marlborough Sound will greet you as if by magic - you ll notice the change of scenery immediately. Disembarking in Picton, we discover the very reason why the Marlborough region has become so famous around the world yes, the vino! This area has one of the world s greatest wine trails: fabulous wine, breathtaking scenery, a warm climate and relaxed people clustered in one small grape growing region. After a bite to eat we arrive at our secret Marlborough Winery for some famous NZ wine tastings. The family-owned vineyard was one of the first to be set up in this area and the passion the staff have for all facets of wine making is truly infectious. After some time enjoying this most spectacular of settings, our journey continues west over the ranges to Nelson, the sunniest region in New Zealand known best for its beaches, wineries, breweries and energetic local arts community. (B) Aloha Lodge Nelson

5 17 DAY GRAND KIWI (AUCKLAND to CHRISTCHURCH) 5 DAY 9: NELSON Today is yours to explore the breathtaking surrounds of Nelson and whatever you re into; it s all here, all year! Home to three of New Zealand s most spectacular national parks, it truly is a diverse region. From snow capped mountains to lush green forests, and rolling vineyards to turquoise waters, make sure you pack your camera today! You ll have the opportunity to explore the stunning Abel Tasman National Park by boat*, by the ever-popular walking tracks* or from the water as you paddle in ocean kayaks* along the shoreline. For a different view, why not try an unforgettable tandem skydive*? If you would prefer to keep your feet on terra firma, there s horse riding* and even quad biking* options available. Nelson is also the creative arts hub of New Zealand and home to a number of wonderful galleries and studios. With over three hundred working artists, you re guaranteed to see many scattered around the lakes, on the rivers, in forest dwellings and everywhere in between! Tonight we regroup over a traditional Kiwi BBQ dinner provided by your champion Topdeck crew. (B, D) Aloha Lodge Nelson DAY 10: NELSON TO CHRISTCHURCH VIA KAIKOURA Today we head back through the Rai Valley and the sensational Marlborough Wine Region to make our first stop in Blenheim. Continuing down the coast, we try to spy New Zealand fur seals at Ohau Point before reaching our afternoon destination at Kaikoura - a friendly town that sits right at the foothills of the Seaward Kaikoura Ranges and the edge of the Pacific Ocean. Fans of seafood will certainly enjoy lunch in these parts. In fact, in the Maori language Kai = Food and Koura = Crayfish, so you know it s good! There's even the option of meeting some marine friends with a whale watching* or dolphin* or seal swimming adventure* here, while in winter you can snuggle up with a glass of NZ's finest at a local winery. Waving Kaikoura goodbye, we continue our journey to eclectic Christchurch, the South Island s largest city, and our base for this evening. (B) Traditionally known as The Garden City, Christchurch is now one of the world s most unique destinations. See creativity and innovation popping up all over the city, in this ever-evolving time following on from the 2010 and 2011 Canterbury earthquakes. Take time to discover the vibrant ideas which are breathing new life back into the city like Re:START Mall, made out of brightly coloured shipping containers, stylish pop up bars, innovative gap fillers and the Transitional Cardboard Cathedral. Christchurch & Canterbury Tourism. Bealeys Hotel Christchurch

6 17 DAY GRAND KIWI (AUCKLAND to CHRISTCHURCH) 6 DAY 11: CHRISTCHURCH TO FOX GLACIER The scenery will totally amaze you today as we head off across the Canterbury Plains and into the Southern Alps. Our path is only one of three that cut across these impressive mountains that form the backbone of the South Island. We ll stop for a break at Arthur s Pass then continue on through the Otira Gorge with waterfalls cascading overhead. Welcome to the wild West Coast as we head into the town of Hokitika for our lunch break the Whitebait fritters are a must when in season. We ll stop at the Jade factory and see the carvers skilfully creating works of art from the Pounamu greenstone, known as Jade, and grab the chance to purchase a souvenir pendant. Let s hope Lake Matheson s waters are still and the skies are clear so that we can get that famous reflection of New Zealand s two tallest mountain peaks in its waters. This afternoon we ll stretch our legs with an afternoon walk taking in the stunning scenery before we check into our accommodation. (B, D) Fox Glacier Inn Fox Glacier DAY 12: FOX GLACIER TO QUEENSTOWN Westland National Park abounds with high mountain peaks and glaciers and today we'll have a chance to walk on a flowing river of ice! A half day guided hike* is an excellent way to take a closer look at Fox Glacier as your ice guides take you alongside the glacier through rejuvenating temperate rainforest and onto the lower icefall. If you prefer to search higher on the glacier for stunning ice caves and formations take a heli-hike* onto the upper icefall and enjoy a more sedate walking pace as you explore with your ice guides and await the return of your helicopter. After lunch we will make stops for photos and short walks. A stop at Thunder Creek Falls, which flows into the Haast River amidst rainforest, highlights the beauty of this World Heritage area. We ll break at Makarora then journey past Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea and onto our destination, the adrenalin mecca of the southern hemisphere Queenstown, our home for next three nights! Don t miss out on a famous Topdeck recommended Queenstown Fergburger* whilst in town the Little Lamby is always a winner. (B) Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park Queenstown DAY 13 & DAY 14: QUEENSTOWN One is never quite enough so we ve given you two full days in Queenstown and adventure waits at every turn! Queenstown is perfect for everyone from the adrenalin junkie to the leisure seeker - there is just so much to do. Try a bungy jump* or a giant swing through a narrow canyon*, skim past canyon walls on the Shotover Jet*, pass through the breathtaking scenery of the Dart River on a jet boat safari* or for a more leisurely view take a horseback ride* through Paradise. If this is not your cup of tea, enjoy the mountains and views on the numerous mountain bike trails* or hike to Ben Lomond for 360 degree views, admire Queenstown from above with a ride on the skyline gondola* or take one of the many fantastic walks Queenstown has to offer. With two full days in this ever popular resort town, it s also a perfect opportunity to catch a glimpse of a Kiwi why not head to the Kiwi Birdlife Park*? If all of this seems just too much, you can always chill out in a local restaurant, cafe or bar, or simply chill out by the lake. (Bx2, Dx1) Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park Queenstown

7 17 DAY GRAND KIWI (AUCKLAND to CHRISTCHURCH) 7 DAY 15: QUEENSTOWN TO SOUTHLAND (INCLUDING MILFORD SOUND) Departing Queenstown this morning we farewell this adventure playground and head to the Fiords. There will be time to stop and admire the reflection in Mirror Lake, the views down the Hollyford Valley, and we literally drive through the mountain via the Homer Tunnel and emerge back into a landscape of spectacular mountains and waterfalls. This afternoon brings a heightened enthusiasm rearing for your Milford Sound Nature Cruise and to enjoy the stunning views that have been pictured millions of times in the Fiord. Fur seals and bottlenose dolphins are often seen and, on the odd occasion the rare Fiordland Crested Penguins can also be out playing. Our afternoon cruise is an intimate look into the history and geology of the Fiord while exploring small nooks and crannies along the edges, nudging into sheer rock faces to examine flora and fauna in detail and is sure to be a real highlight! (B) Village Inn Te Anau DAY 16: SOUTHLAND TO LAKE OHAU We make our way along Lake Wakatipu this morning bound for quaint Arrowtown. You ll have some time to explore this historic gold mining town before tackling our next adventure. After lunch*, we leave the coach behind for just a little while this afternoon we re using pedal power! Departing Arrowtown on our mountain bikes, your Topdeck trip leader guides you along the willow-lined Arrow River. Crossing various bridges, you ll zig-zag across the river which is sometimes tranquil, often rushing over rocks, then widening to crystal clear pools. There s no shortage of photo stops along the relatively gentle ride either, none more popular than the halfway mark when we arrive at the most awe-inspiring suspension bridge it s a destination in itself. There is certainly time to take it all in and enjoy the journey before we finish at the famous Kawarau Bridge, home of the world s first commercial Bungy operation. Before too long it s time to hit the road again as we continue through to the Cromwell district before we venture up and over the Lindis Pass as we witness the dramatic variation in scenery of these ranges to those we ve encountered in the west. Our home tonight is a classic Kiwi Lakeside Lodge on the shores of Lake Ohau. After a superb homemade meal, be sure to save room for dessert - it has been a Topdeck favourite for years! There s time for an evening stroll by the lake, or quiet drink on the deck as we watch the sun silhouette Mt Cook whilst setting to the west. (B, D) Lake Ohau Lodge Twizel

8 17 DAY GRAND KIWI (AUCKLAND to CHRISTCHURCH) 8 DAY 17: LAKE OHAU TO CHRISTCHURCH (VIA MT COOK VILLAGE) Wake up this morning to magnificent views of the mountains before you. Today we make tracks and follow the Southern Lakes hydroelectricity scheme around impressive blue water lakes with the ever-present Southern Alps as a backdrop. If the weather is right we ll head in to Mt Cook village, there is an opportunity to take a walk in the National Park, or simply sit back and enjoy the stunning scenery. Next stop, Lake Pukaki, and a chance for some amazing photos as we gaze across the clear blue waters back to Mt Cook known to the Maori people as Aoraki or cloud piercer hopefully no clouds in sight to obscure our view! The blue waters of Lake Tekapo greet us as we make a scenic lunch stop in the village. After lunch we make our way to the Church of the Good Sheppard and the monument to the Border Collie. On to Fairlie - situated smack in the heart of sheep country, we will learn about life on a Kiwi sheep farm and see the Collie dogs in action at our Kiwi Farm Experience the delicious homemade afternoon tea is true Kiwi Country fare. From here it s flat going as we once again cross the Canterbury Plains to reach our final destination and say our goodbyes... as they say in Kiwi... it's been realas, bro! Ka Kite Ano! (B, A/tea) Not ready to end your adventure just yet? You re in luck - Topdeck also have numerous trips on offer Down Under! Whether it s the sun, surf and sand of the east coast, the rugged natural beauty of the southern states or the fascinating aboriginal history of the outback, Topdeck have an Australian trip sure to interest you. INCLUDED: Experienced Trip Leader and Driver, meals as indicated, accommodation, air conditioned vehicle, free Wifi on coach. NOTES: *Indicates optional activities that are mentioned in the itinerary. These are available at an additional expense and are not included in the trip price. All activities are seasonal and subject to weather conditions. B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, A=Afternoon Tea. Itineraries may vary and/or attractions be substituted for any cause including seasonal conditions, weather extremes, traditional owner and national park requirements. See terms and conditions for full details. This trip is for active year olds. Travel Insurance is strongly recommended for all travellers on all trips. A luggage limit of 20kgs applies To make sure you have the best Topdeck trip ever, our experienced crew will tailor all of the activities based on seasonal and cultural conditions throughout the year. Any deviation from this itinerary will be made with serious consideration and with your best interests and safety in mind. If you need to contact us while you are in Australia or New Zealand please call or us and we will be happy to help! Topdeck Australia: Topdeck New Zealand: info@topdeck.travel