18-Nights New Zealand: Ultimate Rail, Cruise & Coach Experience - Escorted Tours, Rail Journeys from $8,960

Day 1: Arrive in Auckland

On arrival into Auckland, you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening, enjoy a complimentary pre-dinner drink as you meet your travelling companions.

Dinner not included for anyone arriving later than 8pm.

Hotel: Crowne Plaza Auckland (4 Star Rating)

Crowne Plaza Auckland is located in the very heart of 'The City of Sails', superbly positioned in the entertainment and shopping hub of Auckland City. It is only a short stroll to Queen Street, Aotea Convention Centre, Sky Tower and the Viaduct Basin. Due to its unique design, the accommodation rooms start from level 16, ensuring many guest rooms provide excellent views over downtown Auckland.

Meal(s): Dinner

Board the luxurious Ultimate Coach and enjoy a city tour of Auckland, dubbed the ‘City of Sails’, before travelling to Matakohe to enjoy a visit and informative talk at the Kauri Museum. Travel via Whangarei to Paihia, situated in the beautiful Bay of Islands. Enjoy a guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the location of the signing of the treaty between the Mãori tribes and the British.

Hotel: Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands Paihia (3 Star Rating)

The Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands Paihia is situated in 4 acres of park-like grounds and within easy walking distance of the village and wharf. Located only 10 minutes away from the Waitangi Treaty House and the fabulous 18 hole Waitangi Golf Course. The hotel has 114 standard, superior and air-conditioned deluxe rooms.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner

Today is a free day. Choose from the many optional activities available, including the Cape Reinga coach trip via Ninety Mile Beach or a spectacular scenic flight. This evening is also free, you may like to enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise (optional).

Hotel: Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands Paihia (3 Star Rating)

The Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands Paihia is situated in 4 acres of park-like grounds and within easy walking distance of the village and wharf. Located only 10 minutes away from the Waitangi Treaty House and the fabulous 18 hole Waitangi Golf Course. The hotel has 114 standard, superior and air-conditioned deluxe rooms.

Meal(s): Breakfast

This morning you will explore the scenic beauty of the Bay of Islands including an island visit aboard a luxury catamaran. Cruise to Cape Brett and the famous ‘Hole in the Rock’, keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine life. On return to Paihia, travel south, call into the Parry Kauri Park to see a magnificent example of a Kauri Tree before returning to Auckland.

Hotel: Crowne Plaza Auckland (4 Star Rating)

Crowne Plaza Auckland is located in the very heart of 'The City of Sails', superbly positioned in the entertainment and shopping hub of Auckland City. It is only a short stroll to Queen Street, Aotea Convention Centre, Sky Tower and the Viaduct Basin. Due to its unique design, the accommodation rooms start from level 16, ensuring many guest rooms provide excellent views over downtown Auckland.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner

This morning travel to Glenbrook Vintage Railway for a nostalgic 15 kilometre trip back in time on a beautifully restored vintage steam train. Visit the restoration workshop and on return to Glenbrook Station, morning tea will be served. Depart Glenbrook and travel through magnificent countryside of rolling hills and green pastures famous for dairying. Continue to Rotorua to visit the National Kiwi Hatchery, for a unique behind the scenes tour of the world’s largest kiwi hatchery.

Hotel: Regent of Rotorua (5 Star Rating)

A gem that stands apart from the crowd as Rotorua's most stylish hotel, this luxury boutique hotel in Rotorua city center has been designed with the modern traveler in mind. Prepare to be wowed by an eclectic mix of stylish spaces. Refreshingly original, the Regent marks the epitome of chic, luxury accommodation in the city.

Our welcoming team is on hand to ensure that whether you are staying for business or pleasure, overnight or longer, your stay will be memorable and enjoyable. Whether relaxing with a cocktail by our heated pool, soaking in our restorative mineral pool, or picking up a coffee and a muffin to-go, the Regent of Rotorua is the perfect venue.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner

Today begins with a gondola ride and breakfast at Skyline Rotorua where spectacular views are on offer. There is also time for a thrilling luge ride! Next stop is Agrodome for an action-packed hour of farming entertainment and education that is unlike anything you’ve seen before. Enjoy some free time this afternoon before travelling to Te Puia to see the boiling mud pools and awesome geysers that Rotorua is famous for. This evening experience an entertaining Mãori Hãngi and Concert.

Hotel: Regent of Rotorua (5 Star Rating)

A gem that stands apart from the crowd as Rotorua's most stylish hotel, this luxury boutique hotel in Rotorua city center has been designed with the modern traveler in mind. Prepare to be wowed by an eclectic mix of stylish spaces. Refreshingly original, the Regent marks the epitome of chic, luxury accommodation in the city.

Our welcoming team is on hand to ensure that whether you are staying for business or pleasure, overnight or longer, your stay will be memorable and enjoyable. Whether relaxing with a cocktail by our heated pool, soaking in our restorative mineral pool, or picking up a coffee and a muffin to-go, the Regent of Rotorua is the perfect venue.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner

Travel along the Thermal Explorer Highway to the spectacular Huka Falls. Continue to Lake Taupo for some free time to enjoy this scenic lakeside town. Travel via the Tongariro National Park and then continue south to NZ’s capital city, Wellington.

Hotel: InterContinental Wellington (4 Star Rating)

Adjacent to Wellington’s waterfront, InterContinental Wellington is the most centrally-located and experienced global five-star hotel in New Zealand’s capital city. It is the seamless and personal service of the team that makes your Wellington accommodation and travel experience truly memorable. Guests can spend time with the award-winning concierge team whose tips and insider knowledge help travelers discover the arts, events, shopping, and culinary cultures surrounding the hotel.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner

A highlight this morning will be time to explore Gallipoli: A Scale of War exhibition at Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum. Cutting edge technology brings these stories to life through the eyes of New Zealanders who found themselves in extraordinary circumstances. Reboard your Ultimate coach for an extensive city tour which showcases the history and culture on show. Enjoy free time this afternoon and this evening is also at leisure.

Hotel: InterContinental Wellington (4 Star Rating)

Adjacent to Wellington’s waterfront, InterContinental Wellington is the most centrally-located and experienced global five-star hotel in New Zealand’s capital city. It is the seamless and personal service of the team that makes your Wellington accommodation and travel experience truly memorable. Guests can spend time with the award-winning concierge team whose tips and insider knowledge help travelers discover the arts, events, shopping, and culinary cultures surrounding the hotel.

Meal(s): Breakfast

This morning board the Interislander Ferry, cross the Cook Strait and enjoy the scenery as you travel through the Marlborough Sounds to Picton. Join the Coastal Pacific, a truly spectacular rail journey that follows a thin wedge of land between the Pacific Ocean and the Kaikõura Ranges. Meet your Ultimate Coach in the fishing village of Kaikõura for the journey to the garden city of Christchurch.

Hotel: The George Hotel (5 Star Rating)

The George, a luxury boutique hotel, is the essence of supreme comfort and is renowned for offering a personalised stay and attentive staff. Located in the heart of Christchurch overlooking the picturesque Hagley Park and river Avon you will find this peaceful Christchurch accommodation just steps from the cultural precinct and key attractions. Impeccable service in an intimate ambience is guaranteed at The George, the only Christchurch Hotel with a one-to-one staff to guest ratio.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner

Today visit the International Antarctic Centre designed to provide an informative account of life in Antarctica. This is followed by an introductory city tour of Christchurch. This afternoon includes a journey on board the Christchurch Tram at your leisure. This evening is free to enjoy one of the many eateries near your hotel.

Hotel: The George Hotel (5 Star Rating)

The George, a luxury boutique hotel, is the essence of supreme comfort and is renowned for offering a personalised stay and attentive staff. Located in the heart of Christchurch overlooking the picturesque Hagley Park and river Avon you will find this peaceful Christchurch accommodation just steps from the cultural precinct and key attractions. Impeccable service in an intimate ambience is guaranteed at The George, the only Christchurch Hotel with a one-to-one staff to guest ratio.

Meal(s): Breakfast

This morning board the TranzAlpine, renowned as one of the great train journeys of the world. Travel over massive viaducts, river valleys and spectacular gorges as you ascend to Arthur’s Pass located in the centre of the Southern Alps. Board your Ultimate Coach and travel to Hokitika, famous for its Greenstone before continuing via Franz Josef to the township of Fox Glacier where time is available to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the spectacular glaciers.

Hotel: Distinction Fox Glacier Te Weheka Boutique Hotel (4 Star Rating)

Distinction Fox Glacier Te Weheka Hotel is your ideal luxury hotel accommodation in Fox Glacier village - a charming township in the beautiful alpine West Coast region of New Zealand's South Island.

Perfect for any season, Distinction Fox Glacier's location provides a real sense of privacy and peaceful seclusion, while being only a short stroll to the Fox Glacier village.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner

See the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel south along the West Coast. Continue via the Haast Pass, an area of stunning beauty before arriving at Arrowtown to visit the Lakes District Museum. Continue to picturesque Queenstown, a year-round resort situated on the shores of magical Lake Wakatipu. This evening is free, and you may choose to dine out at one of the many fine restaurants.

Hotel: Rendezvous Heritage Queenstown (4 Star Rating)

The Heritage Queenstown offers enchanting views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkable Mountain Range. A short distance from the town centre, this unique European style lodge is surrounded by native forest in the heart of New Zealand's alpine wonderland. Crafted from centuries old schist and cedar, The Heritage Queenstown is the perfect place to relax in comfortable yet sophisticated surroundings. The Heritage offers a choice of 178 luxury rooms, including traditional deluxe hotel accommodation and spacious 1 or 2 bedroom Suites. Each room is thoughtfully decorated, featuring individual touches which reflect unique high country origins.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Today is a free day for you to explore Queenstown with many optional activities available. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back, relax and enjoy a delicious gourmet barbecue dinner featuring a menu of seasonal, fresh and locally sourced food at the Colonel’s Homestead. After dinner enjoy a short farm tour then reboard the TSS Earnslaw for a sing along by the piano as you cruise back to Queenstown.

Hotel: Rendezvous Heritage Queenstown (4 Star Rating)

The Heritage Queenstown offers enchanting views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkable Mountain Range. A short distance from the town centre, this unique European style lodge is surrounded by native forest in the heart of New Zealand's alpine wonderland. Crafted from centuries old schist and cedar, The Heritage Queenstown is the perfect place to relax in comfortable yet sophisticated surroundings. The Heritage offers a choice of 178 luxury rooms, including traditional deluxe hotel accommodation and spacious 1 or 2 bedroom Suites. Each room is thoughtfully decorated, featuring individual touches which reflect unique high country origins.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner

Today travel via Te Anau to Manapouri. Enjoy lunch as you cruise across this glacial lake. A short ride over the Wilmot Pass brings you to the boarding point to join the Fiordland Navigator for an amazing overnight experience. As you cruise through the pristine beauty of Doubtful Sound, naturalist guides will provide commentary and point out the resident wildlife. When evening falls enjoy a delicious carvery buffet prepared by the onboard chef.

Hotel: Fiordland Navigator (0 Star Rating)

Designed along the lines of a traditional scow, the Fiordland Navigator blends old world charm with modern comforts that include spacious viewing decks, a dining saloon/fully licensed bar and an observation lounge.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Start the day with a hearty breakfast before heading back to Deep Cove for the trip to Manapouri. Return to the wharf and meet your Ultimate Coach for the journey to Te Anau where you will enjoy an afternoon at leisure. You may like to visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves (optional).

Hotel: Distinction Hotel and Villas Te Anau (3 Star Rating)

Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas offers elegant accommodation and FREE unlimited WiFi for the perfect Fiordland getaway. Surrounded by extensive, colorful gardens and overlooking spectacular Lake Te Anau and the Fiordland ranges, this 4-star hotel, and villa accommodation set the tone for your stay in one of the world’s most breathtaking regions.

Located on the Te Anau lakefront, a short stroll from the Te Anau town center, Distinction Te Anau is perfectly situated for you to make the most of this beautiful area. If you need an escape from everyday life and a chance to indulge yourself with a relaxing holiday, this is the place for you.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner

Travel via Gore and Balclutha to Dunedin, famous for its stunning Edwardian and Victorian architecture dating back to the gold rush of the 1800s. Today Dunedin is New Zealand’s oldest university city.

Hotel: Distinction Dunedin (4 Star Rating)

Distinction Dunedin is a 2021 Travellers Choice Winner, ranked in the top 25 of all hotels in NZ, Australia & the South Pacific on TripAdvisor. The Dunedin hotel presents a variety of premier accommodation to suit everyone from the businesses traveller requiring spacious and modern facilities to those wanting a relaxing weekend away. All 121 elegant suites and studio rooms offer superior soundproofing and are outfitted with cloud-like beds, a microwave, washer/dryer, 55" televisions and luxurious dual fixture walk-in rain showers. FREE high speed WiFi is available.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner

Travel along the Otago Peninsula to Larnach Castle. On a guided tour you will hear the tragic and scandalous stories followed by time to wander around this Garden of International Significance and an Ultimate High Tea served in the Grand Ballroom. Return to Dunedin for a city tour followed by some free time. Optional activities available include a tour of the Speight’s Brewery, which produces New Zealand’s most popular beer, see wildlife in their natural habitat or take a tour of Olveston Historic Home, containing many treasures of a bygone era.

Hotel: Distinction Dunedin (4 Star Rating)

Distinction Dunedin is a 2021 Travellers Choice Winner, ranked in the top 25 of all hotels in NZ, Australia & the South Pacific on TripAdvisor. The Dunedin hotel presents a variety of premier accommodation to suit everyone from the businesses traveller requiring spacious and modern facilities to those wanting a relaxing weekend away. All 121 elegant suites and studio rooms offer superior soundproofing and are outfitted with cloud-like beds, a microwave, washer/dryer, 55" televisions and luxurious dual fixture walk-in rain showers. FREE high speed WiFi is available.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner

This morning travel to the city of Oamaru, famous for its limestone. Continue north to Pleasant Point Museum and Railway for a short rail experience followed by lunch and time to explore the preserved heritage of the South Canterbury railway. This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with selected beverages and your newfound friends.

Hotel: The George Hotel (5 Star Rating)

The George, a luxury boutique hotel, is the essence of supreme comfort and is renowned for offering a personalised stay and attentive staff. Located in the heart of Christchurch overlooking the picturesque Hagley Park and river Avon you will find this peaceful Christchurch accommodation just steps from the cultural precinct and key attractions. Impeccable service in an intimate ambience is guaranteed at The George, the only Christchurch Hotel with a one-to-one staff to guest ratio.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.

Meal(s): Breakfast