GLACIER & COASTAL WONDER

07 NIGHTS & 08 DAYS

DAY 1 - ARRIVE CHRISTCHURCH
On arrival in Christchurch, The Garden City, seat in coach passengers will be met by our local
representative and privately transferred to your hotel. Self drive clients will collect your rental car at the
airport and drive to your hotel.
DAY 2 - CHRISTCHURCH - DUNEDIN
Travel south across the Canterbury Plains to reach Scottish influenced Dunedin, renowned for the local
wildlife and Otago University. (B)
DAY 3 - DUNEDIN - QUEENSTOWN
Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Dunedin city this morning. Travel to Queenstown this afternoon. (B)
DAY 4 - MILFORD SOUND
Follow the southern arm of Lake Wakatipu to Lumsden, and onward to Lake Te Anau. Enter the Eglinton
Valley and travel through the breath taking man made Homer Tunnel to reach Milford Sound. Enjoy a
cruise on this world famous fiord, dominated by Mitre Peak and the cascading Bowen Falls. Return to
Queenstown. (B)
DAY 5 - QUEENSTOWN
A free day to explore the endless optional attractions available. Queenstown offers bungy jumping,
jetboating, white water rafting, gondola rides and much more. Optional activities not included in the tour
price. (B)
DAY 6 - QUEENSTOWN - GLACIER REGION
Travel along the shores of Lakes Wanaka and Hawea to the Haast Pass. Continue up the West Coast past
spectacular mountain ranges, native forests and lakes to the glacier region of Franz Josef and Fox
Glaciers. For Self Drive clients, entry to the Glacier Hot Pools is included. (B)
DAY 7 - GLACIER REGION - CHRISTCHURCH
Travel north to Greymouth today and board the Tranz Alpine train (seat in coach passengers only).
Ascend through lush beech forests past the alpine village of Arthurs Pass before crossing the spectacular
Southern Alps. Travel over the Canterbury Plains to reach the garden city of Christchurch. (B)
DAY 8 - DEPARTURE DAY
Your arrangements conclude today with a departure transfer or the return of your rental car. We trust you
enjoyed your Vacation! (B)

TOP OF THE SOUTH

07 NIGHTS & 08 DAYS
DAY 1 - ARRIVE CHRISTCHURCH
On arrival in Christchurch, The Garden City, seat in coach passengers will be met by our local
representative and privately transferred to your hotel. Self drive clients will collect your rental car at the
airport and drive to your hotel.
DAY 2 - CHRISTCHURCH - KAIKOURA
Travel through North Canterbury before turning towards the coast and arriving in Kaikoura, a town
steeped in Maori history and legend. Enjoy a Whale Watch experience by boat (weather permitting
tomorrow early morning is the alternative cruise time). You will have the opportunity to view the
magnificent Sperm Whale as well as New Zealands own tiny Hectors Dolphin, Fur Seals and Royal
Albatross. (B)
DAY 3 - KAIKOURA - BLENHEIM
A leisurely start this morning before you continue north to Blenheim, the centre of the Marlborough
region and New Zealands most famous wine growing area. Afternoon is at leisure. (B)
DAY 4 - BLENHEIM - NELSON
Explore the Marlborough Wine Region this morning including a winery visit with tasting before heading
through to Havelock Marina. Join the Greenshell Mussel Cruise this afternoon on the Marlborough
Sounds before continuing by road through to Nelson. (B)
DAY 5 - NELSON
At leisure to enjoy Nelson. Optional activities include a day excursion to Abel Tasman National Park or
enjoy a visit to one of the many wineries in the region. Optional activities not included in the tour price.
(B)
DAY 6 - NELSON - PUNAKAIKI
Travel across hill country today through the Buller Gorge to Westport and down the coast to the famous
Punakaiki Pancake Rocks. (B)
DAY 7 - PUNAKAIKI - GREYMOUTH - CHRISTCHURCH
A short journey today to reach the town of Greymouth. Board the Tranz Alpine train (seat in coach
passengers only) and travel through the rainforest of the West Coast to reach Arthurs Pass National Park
and the Southern Alps, before descending through the rugged gorges of the Waimakariri and across the
Canterbury Plains to Christchurch. (B)
DAY 8 - DEPARTURE DAY
Your arrangements conclude today with a departure transfer or the return of your rental car. We trust you
enjoyed your Vacation! (B)

BOTTOM OF THE SOUTH

13 NIGHTS & 14 DAYS
DAY 1 - ARRIVE CHRISTCHURCH
Welcome to New Zealand. A Kirra Tours representative will greet you at the airport with transport waiting
to take you to your hotel.
DAY 2 - CHRISTCHURCH - MT COOK - OMARAMA
Before departing Christchurch this morning enjoy a brief city sights tour. Later travel across
the Canterbury Plain into MacKenzie Country. Arrive into stunning Tekapo to view the iconic Church of
the Good Shepherd, built in 1935, and the Collie Dog statue that both overlook the powder blue waters of
Lake Tekapo. There is also a chance to fly over the Southern Alps with Air Safaris if you choose
(optional), a scenic flightseeing experience you will never forget!
Later continue on to Mt Cook National Park, and view the iconic Mt Cook (Aoraki) itself, the highest
mountain in New Zealand. Tonight you will stay in Omarama, a village whose name in Maori means
place of light. (B, D)
DAY 3 - OMARAMA - DUNEDIN
Pass large hydro lakes as you travel down the Waitaki Valley this morning, pausing at historic Oamaru.
Next arrive into Dunedin the Scottish city, which is known for its vibrant university community as
well as being home to the worlds steepest street!
Discover Dunedins heritage buildings on a brief city tour and view the thriving city centre area, named
the Octagon, as well as the railway station. Your early arrival allows the choice of excellent optional
activities and your Coach Captain will be happy to assist you. Why not take a ride on the iconic Taieri
Gorge Railway for striking scenery and dramatic photo opportunities. Or perhaps you would prefer to
indulge yourself on a guided tour through Dunedins iconic Cadburys Chocolate Factory or Speights
Brewery. (B, D)
DAY 4 - DUNEDIN - TE ANAU
This morning venture out onto the stunningly beautiful Otago Peninsula, here you will discover the
historic Larnach Castle. Enjoy a guided tour of this fascinating grand old house, lovingly restored to its
former glory! Discover the scandalous and tragic story behind the castles original owners before setting
off across rich farmlands to the agricultural towns of Gore and Lumsden. Continue your journey towards
the isolated Fiordland National Park area, stopping at the shores of Lake Te Anau. If time permits you
may like to take the opportunity tonight of visiting the fascinating Te Anau Glowworm Caves which are
located a scenic cruise away across the other side of Lake Te Anau (optional and at own expense). (B, D)
DAY 5 - TE ANAU - MILFORD SOUND - QUEENSTOWN
Today journey into the vast wilderness of Fiordland, with its dense forest, deep lakes and ocean flooded
valleys. Descend into the Cleddau Canyon to reach majestic Milford Sound dominated by Mitre Peak, a
fjord once described by Rudyard Kipling as the Eighth wonder of the world. A launch cruise takes you
to open seas, here you can view the Bowen and Stirling Falls as they crash down the cliffs and if you are
lucky even witness a splashing seal or two. After your spectacular journey through Milford Sound you
will return to your coach and begin your drive back to Te Anau, before setting off for Queenstown via the
winding shores of Lake Wakatipu. Tonight enjoy spectacular views over Queenstown as you ride the
scenic Skyline Gondola to the summit of Bobs Peak for a delicious fresh New Zealand buffet dinner like
no other. Take in the absolutely breathtaking panoramic views from the Skyline Restaurant and enjoy a
unique night out. (B, D)

DAY 6 - QUEENSTOWN
Today is at your leisure whilst in the adventure capital. You can either sit back and relax, or your Coach
Captain is available to assist with any optional activities you would like to do. Try the world famous
Shotover Jet, or perhaps a tour to Skippers Canyon for history and dramatic scenery. (B, D)
DAY 7 - QUEENSTOWN - HAAST PASS - FOX GLACIER
Pass picturesque Lake Hayes this morning, before arriving into Lake Wanaka, a picture postcard resort on
the lakes edge with a spectacular mountain backdrop. Continue on your way past Lake Hawea and the
upper reaches of Lake Wanaka to Makarora, before you enter the dense bush and winding mountain
roads of the Haast Pass. Travel through the Mt Aspiring and Westland National Parks before you finally
descend out of the mountain ranges to arrive at the West Coast. Enjoy the wild coastal scenery as you pass
windswept isolated beaches and dense bushland before reaching your destination, the township of Franz
Josef. (B, D)
DAY 8 - FOX GLACIER - GREYMOUTH - CHRISTCHURCH
Snowcapped Southern Alps dominate the skyline as you pass glades of dense bush, tiny landlocked lakes
and small pockets of farmland, heading north along the coast this morning for a visit to a Greenstone
(Jade) factory. Here, witness expert craftsmen at work cutting and polishing giant boulders to create fine
jewellery. This jade, or as the Maori people named it, Pounamu, can only be found on the South Island of
New Zealand. It is culturally important and is considered to be a taonga (treasure) that greatly increases
prestige, and thus were prized possessions to be handed down between generations. (B, D)
DAY 9 - CHRISTCHURCH - KAIKOURA - BLENHEIM
This morning you will join the Coastal Pacific Train for a kaleidoscope of panoramic views, travelling
north across fertile Canterbury farmland and through the Hundalee Ranges. With rising mountain ranges
in the distance, follow the Pacific coastline to Kaikoura where you will disembark to enjoy some free
time. Kaikoura was originally founded as a centre for whaling and was actually built with a supporting
foundation of whale bone! These days Kaikoura is still famous for its abundance of sealife, whales are
still often seen along the shore and whale watching has become one of the areas most popular activities,
although dolphins, seals and birdlife are very common as well. Next reboard your coach and begin the
journey to Blenheim where a short tour of the area includes a visit to Yealands Estate Winery. Located in
the famous New Zealand wine growing region of Marlborough, here you will discover and taste a range
of famous local wines (purchase if you wish) followed by a movie and tour, before you head to gorgeous
Blenheim where you will stay the night. (B, D)
DAY 10 - BLENHEIM - PICTON - WELLLINGTON
Drive north to Picton this morning, a charming tiny village and a gateway that leads into the spectacular
Queen Charlotte Sound. Enjoy a cruise on the Interislander Ferry as you cross Cook Strait and arrive into
Wellington Harbour. A city tour includes the summit of Mount Victoria for views over the city and its
harbour, the Houses of Parliament and distinctive Beehive, Wellington Cathedral, the central city and
business area and Oriental Bay. Later why not explore yourself (time permitting), taking the opportunity
to visit Te Papas extraordinary displays or even take a Cable Car ride for some spectacular views! (B, D)
DAY 11 - WELLINGTON - TAUPO - ROTORUA
Leave Wellington behind this morning as you travel north past rolling picturesque hills on your way to
Paekakariki, a stunning coastal region with views that extend over Kapiti Island. On a clear day from this
vantage point you may even catch sight of the South Island far in the distance if you are lucky. Continue
through to the central North Island National Park, a region dominated by the volcanic Mt Ruapehu.
Follow this Desert Road to Lake Taupo and pause at New Zealands largest lake. Next view the mighty
Huka Falls where the full force of the Waikato River pours through a narrow chasm and crashes into the

river below, before skirting massive pine forests to reach Rotorua, an important centre of Maori culture
and a region famous for its fascinating geothermal activity. (B, D)
DAY 12 - ROTORUA
A sightseeing tour visits the Agrodome for a fun and informative display featuring New Zealands various
sheep breeds and a shearing demonstration by a true Kiwi farmer. After meeting the animals you will
continue on to the Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, arriving at Te Puia to be greeted at the gates by
twelve awe-inspiring Guardians, each carved from wood with a distinctly unique expression and
representing the divine realms. After this extraordinary arrival, you will enter the inspiring Maori Arts and
Crafts Centre which aims to preserve Maori culture and traditional arts for generations to come. After
your visit you will enjoy a free afternoon, allowing you to try out some optional activities if you choose.
Your Coach Captain will be happy to assist you in making any bookings or in providing suggestions. This
evening you will discover the Tamaki Maori Village. You will be greeted by imposing warriors who will
perform the Powhiri (traditional Maori welcome) before you walk through a forest of pine trees and learn
about some of the traditional Maori arts. Later enjoy the Maori hangi (traditionally prepared meats and
vegetables) which has been slow cooked beneath the earth using hot stones, as well as enjoying a
selection of more conventional dishes. Be inspired by a concert and cultural performance featuring
stirring Maori songs, haunting chants and the famous haka. (B, D)
DAY 13 - ROTORUA - WAITOMO - AUCKLAND
Cross the Mamaku Ranges this morning and leave Rotorua behind. Arrive into Matamata and meet your
guide who will escort your group on a fun and interesting Hobbiton Movie Set and Farm Tour, providing
a deeper look behind the scenes of the filming for the Hobbit and Lord of the Rings Trilogy. Take a drive
through this stunning 1,250 acre sheep farm whilst hearing about how the Hobbiton Set was created.
Lastly, relax in the Green Dragon, a fun authentic style Inn just like that in the films. Later travel north to
cross the Bombay Hills to reach New Zealands largest city Auckland. A city tour will visit the summit
of SkyTower, at 328m the tallest free standing structure in the Southern Hemisphere, for superb city and
harbour views over the downtown area and Waterfront Drive. (B, D)
DAY 14 - DEPART AUCKLAND
Your arrangements conclude today with a departure transfer. We trust you enjoyed your Vacation! (B)

LAKES & GLACIERS

08 NIGHTS & 09 DAYS
DAY 1 - ARRIVE CHRISTCHURCH
On arrival in Christchurch, The Garden City, self drive clients will collect your rental car at the airport
and drive to your hotel.
DAY 2 - CHRISTCHURCH - GLACIER REGION
Depart Christchurch and travel beside the Waimakariri River, over the Southern Alps and onto the alpine
village of Arthurs Pass before arriving in Greymouth. Travel south along the rugged West Coast to arrive
at the glacier region of Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. (B)
DAY 3 - GLACIER REGION
A full day at leisure to explore this magnificent glacier region. Optional activities include a scenic flight
or guided walk on one of the glaciers. Optional activities not included in the tour price. Entry to the
Glacier Hot Pools is included. (B)
DAY 4 - GLACIER REGION - WANAKA
Travel down the West Coast past spectacular mountain ranges, native forests and lakes to the Haast Pass,
gateway to the World Heritage Westland National Park. Continue around the shores of Lake Hawea to
arrive in Wanaka early afternoon. (B)
DAY 5 - WANAKA - QUEENSTOWN
This morning a visit to Puzzling World is included before you depart Wanaka. As you enter the Kawarau
Gorge, stop for an included visit at Goldfields Mining Centre and an introduction to the history of gold
mining in the Otago Region. Continue to Queenstown at your leisure. (B)
DAY 6 - QUEENSTOWN
A free day to explore the endless optional attractions available. Queenstown offers bungy jumping,
jetboating, white water rafting, gondola rides and much more. Optional activities not included in the tour
price. (B)
DAY 7 - QUEENSTOWN - MT COOK
Travel south through Central Otago to Twizel before travelling around Lake Pukaki and into Mt Cook
National Park. Optional activities at Mt Cook include scenic flights, a glacier boat ride and the Sir
Edmund Hillary Centre. (Optional tours not included in the tour price) (B)
DAY 8 - MT COOK - CHRISTCHURCH
Depart Mt Cook and stop on the shores of Lake Tekapo to visit the Church of the Good Shepherd.
Continue across the fertile Canterbury Plains to arrive in Christchurch. (B)
DAY 9 - DEPARTURE DAY
Your arrangements conclude today with the return of your rental car. We trust you enjoyed your Vacation!
(B)