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Day 1: Arrive Auckland
Welcome to Auckland! On arrival at the airport you collect your rental car and make your way to your accommodation. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax or explore what Auckland has to offer. Perhaps visit Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World and Antarctic Encounter, take a cruise on Auckland Harbour or make your way to the top of the Sky Tower for spectacular views of Auckland city.
Included for the duration of your rental car is an innovative commentary system. Imagine driving around New Zealand automatically gaining an in-depth knowledge of the history of the towns and regions you pass through, hearing ancient Maori myths and legends, listening to stories told by the characters that shaped our history, learning of the unique wildlife, geographical landmarks and scenic attractions that you see as you travel. Packed with over 2,000 audio commentaries, KRUSE® is guaranteed to keep you entertained and informed everywhere you go on your New Zealand self-drive holiday.
| Hotel: |
Sky City Hotel |
| B&B: |
Aachen House |
| Boutique: |
Mollies |
Day 2: Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo Caves
As you depart Auckland today, suburban scenery gradually gives way to the farmland of South Auckland, an area favoured by bloodstock breeders. The Waikato River will then accompany you for much of your journey through the green countryside to reach Hamilton, a city carved in two by the mighty Waikato River. Continue South through prime farmland to reach the Waitomo Caves region. Here you enjoy a guided tour of the world famous Waitomo glowworm caves including an underground boat ride (weather permitting) on a subterranean river. Overhead thousands of tiny glowworms light up the cave walls and roof. Then travel through a mixture of farmland, lakeland and forest to reach the geothermal city of Rotorua.
| Hotel: |
Heritage Hotel Rotorua (2 nights) |
| B&B: |
Koura Lodge (2 nights) |
| Boutique: |
Accolades Boutique Hotel (2 nights) |
Day 3: Discover the Sights
A fun filled day is in store today as you discover three of Rotorua’s best attractions! Your pass includes Paradise Valley, a superb trout and wildlife enclosure; the Agrodome – a live on stage sheep show and Te Puia where you can learn the Maori culture and see the famous mud pools and Pohutu Geyser.
Day 4: Rotorua to the Hawke's Bay
Depart and continue south through the large Kaingaroa man made forest to reach the popular lake resort of Taupo, home to New Zealand's largest lake and the spectacular Huka Falls. Then continue on to the Hawke’s Bay. The major entertainment on the road from Taupo to Napier is the fantastic scenery. There’s a bit of everything - rugged hills, beautiful valleys, gentle plains and huge vistas.
| Hotel: |
Scenic Circle Te Pania Hotel (2 nights) |
| B&B: |
Mon Logis (2 nights) |
| Boutique: |
McHardy House (2 nights) |
Day 5: Overland Gannet Safari Tour
Today you drive along the scenic coast from Napier to Te Awanga and join your tour to the world’s largest, most accessible gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers. Travel in comfort in air conditioned 4 x 4 wheeled vehicles, through Cape Kidnappers Station - traversing riverbeds, broad rolling pastures, through stands of native bush, steep gullies and breathtaking inclines. There is a stop on the way at a spectacular cliff top with panoramic views of Hawke Bay right across to Mahia peninsular. The amazing geology of the area can also be taken in. The 36 kilometre, three hour trip includes a commentary by your tour guide / driver on the farming operation on Cape Kidnappers Station and an introduction to the gannets. On arrival at the gannets you can stretch your legs and take in the mouth watering scenery from your position at the brink of the cliffs edge - 100 metres above the ocean. Here your driver / guide will serve you refreshments whilst you enjoy watching the gannets perform around you.
Day 6: Hawkes Bay to Martinborough
On your way south you’ll drive through Waipukurau and Waipawa as well as Dannevirke, a town originally settled by Scandinavians. Then enjoy the clean, green Wairarapa scenery as you drive south to reach your destination of Martinborough. Bring your appetite to Martinborough, where Pinot Noir and excellent restaurants promise to ease you into a very happy state of mind. From Martinborough’s village centre you can stroll to any or all of the 30 local vineyards.
| Hotel: |
Peppers Martinborough Hotel |
| B&B: |
The Old Manse |
| Boutique: |
Parehua Country Estate |
Day 7: Martinborough to Wellington
Less than 2 hours drive away, Wellington, New Zealand’s Capital beckons. Climb up and over the Rimutaka Range - great views in every direction. Once the mountains are behind you, it’s easy driving for the rest of your journey. You’ll wind through the picturesque Hutt Valley then a fast moving motorway will whisk you into the city.
| Hotel: |
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor |
| B&B: |
Lambton Heights |
| Boutique: |
298 Oriental Bay |
Day 8: Wellington to the Marlborough Sounds
Return your rental vehicle this morning before you travel by ferry across Cook Strait, the stretch of water that separates the North and South Islands of New Zealand. The journey across Cook Strait has a dramatic beauty all of its own. Both Islands can be viewed, including the magnificent Kaikoura ranges, and there is often the chance to see wildlife such as seabirds, dolphins, seals, whales and orca. Then on arrival in Picton, join your water taxi for your cruise across Marlborough Sounds to your accommodation.
| Hotel: |
The Portage Resort (2 nights) |
| B&B: |
Raetihi Lodge (2 nights) |
| Boutique: |
Bay of Many Coves (2 nights) |
Day 9: At Leisure
The Marlborough Sounds is a paradise offering the opportunity to partake in so many enjoyable activities. Indulge in a favourite pastime or try a new diversion! Perhaps enjoy bush walking as you tramp the Queen Charlotte Track at your own pace. Hire a kayak and explore the sheltered bays and beautiful Sounds coastline either on a guided or independent option. Try your hand at fishing or take a helicopter or seaplane flight to see the region from another perspective. The choice is yours.
Day 10: On to Kaikoura & Whale Watch or Swim with the Dolphins
Make your way back to Picton this morning by water taxi where you collect your rental vehicle and make your way to Kaikoura. This afternoon you choose between swimming with the dolphins where you can get up close to the dusky dolphins that inhabit the coastal waters off Kaikoura and a Whale Watching cruise where you can view some of the most magnificent creatures, among them the giant Sperm Whale which can grow up to 20 metres in length.
| Hotel: |
White Morph Inn |
| B&B: |
Fyffe Country Lodge |
| Boutique: |
Hapuku Lodge |
Day 11: Kaikoura to Christchurch
The trip south today takes you along the edge of the rugged coastal ranges. From Cheviot you can detour to Gore Bay to see the fascinating cliff formations. The landscape becomes gentler as you approach Waipara – a region known for its vineyards and olive groves and could be a great place to stop for refreshments. The last leg of your journey takes you past the surf beaches of Amberley, Leithfield, Waikuku and Woodend before arriving in Christchurch.
| Hotel: |
Heritage Hotel Christchurch (2 nights) |
| B&B: |
The Charlotte Jane (2 nights) |
| Boutique: |
The George Hotel (2 nights) |
Day 12: Punting on the Avon & Evening Tram Dining
This morning sit back and relax in a custom built beautifully upholstered punt as your boatman guides you past the sights of the central city. Your punting journey takes you right through the central business district of the city, giving you a different perspective of lovely parks, historic buildings and tree lined avenues - punting, an experience unique to Christchurch....(except of course if you’re in England). The remainder of the day is at your leisure. This evening you combine all of the above onboard the Christchurch Tramway Restaurant where dining is not only a culinary delight but also a trip back into history. We invite you to sit back in the luxury of our air-conditioned, colonial style, dining tram and be treated to the finest service, cuisine and beverages that New Zealand has to offer.
Day 13: Depart Christchurch
Sadly your time in New Zealand comes to an end as you return your rental vehicle to Christchurch Airport in time to join your onward flight. Here, we bid you a fond farewell to your homeland and hope you leave with many happy memories of your stay in Aotearoa, New Zealand.
This package is also available travelling in reverse at the same price.
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Package Prices
Valid for travel 01 October 2008 to 30 April 2009
| Vehicle Choices (More Info)
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Hotel |
B&B |
Boutique |
| Intermediate Sedan |
$3,820 |
$3,792 |
$5,041 |
| Full Size Sedan |
$3,854 |
$3,826 |
$5,075 |
| Intermediate 4WD |
$3,961 |
$3,933 |
$5,182 |
| Full Size 4WD |
$4,298 |
$4,270 |
$5,519 |
- Prices are per person in New Zealand Dollars, based on share twin accommodation
- Single & triple prices available on request
- B&B properties are not suitable for children
Fully Flexible Holidays!
All of our self drive holidays are completely flexible. Whether you want to mix and match a couple of packages, add some extra nights before, after or during your stay or include some additional attractions or activities, our team of travel specialists are here to assist you. We're New Zealander's so we have the local knowledge and expertise to tailor a package just for you. Just let us know when you enquire.
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