Adventure Seeker of New Zealand
10 Days
from
Starting $4800.*
Highlights:
New Zealand
(Auckland, Rotorua, Queenstown)
Trip Start/End:
Auckland
/
Queenstown
This trip is designed for people who are true adrenaline junkies. Arrive in Auckland, New Zealand's largest city. Spend the afternoon with a special treat aboard the America's cup sailing adventure. The following day travel overland from Auckland to Rotorua by car, stopping along the way to visit Waitomo. Spend 3hours in the glow caves while you black water raft through the underground. Once in Rotorua, we would suggest warming up at the Polynesian spa thermal hot springs that this region is famous for. Spend a full adventure day rafting through waterfalls and biking up steep inclines through dense rainforest. Attend a Maori Hangi and concert, where you learn about traditional Maori customs and beliefs and finish it all off with an authentic Hangi dinner! You will do a full day hike on the Tongariro Crossing; considered one of the best one day walks in the world. Fly to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. Start your time by bungee jumping off the original bungee bridge 440ft down. Embark on a day trip to Milford Sound, where you will take a cruise through this important New Zealand landmark. Tandem Skydive 12,000ft, 45second free fall jump. The jump site is nestled in the Remarkable’s; scenery will take your breath away. Helicopter over the Remarkable’s and then do a 6km bike ride over rock cliffs and end with a 4WD journey back to Queenstown through Gibston valley. The choices are endless so pick and choose to suit, they have quad bikes, shot over cannoning, jet boating, white water rafting and so much more. Choose your adventure! You will not want to leave this incredibly beautiful country.
*** Due to fluctuating costs, the flights are not included in this itinerary. Air New Zealand offers great rates for this routing. You may also wish to speak with your travel agent about including domestic air with your international ***
Trip Itinerary
Auckland Coastal Piha Beach
Sky City Grand Hotel
Day 1: Auckland
A private vehicle with driver will provide a transfer between the Auckland Airport and Hotel.
The America’s Cup is the world’s oldest and most prestigious sporting trophy and ultimate yachting accomplishment. Usually the domain of billionaires and elite professional yachties, this activity provides a very unique opportunity to participate in sailing on these grand prix racing machines. A must do attraction in Auckland and a unique opportunity to participate as crew on an actual America’s Cup yacht. The experience varies per person: take the helm, exert energy on the grinders or sit back, relax and enjoy the sail, a once in a lifetime experience.
Accommodation: Sky City Grand Auckland (5*) Sky City Grand Hotel is centrally located in the heart of Auckland City, an urban oasis of contemporary elegance and style. The hotel offers 316 luxurious and comfortable accommodations. Choose from two distinctly stylish restaurants, a cocktail and lobby lounge and a unique function space. Take time out to pamper your body, mind and soul at East Day Spa, a luxury health and beauty spa. Refresh and tone at the well-appointed gymnasium or in the heated lap pool, or stay connected at the fully equipped, high tech business centre.
Rotorua
Waitomo Cave
The Regent
Day 2: Auckland - Rotorua
A private vehicle will provide a transfer from Auckland to Rotorua. En-route the transfer will pass through Waitomo for some additional touring.
Join the 3 hour original adventure of the Black Labyrinth. Black Labyrinth is Waitomo’s original and amazing underground cave tubing experience that is known and talked about all around the world. Over three hours you’ll work your way through squeezes, take leaps of faith over cascading underground waterfalls and float serenely down river as you enjoy the glowworm show on the vaulted limestone galleries up above. Once you have dried off and warmed up with a hot cup of soup continue to Rotorua.
Enjoy an evening cultural experience at a local Maori concert. It is a feast of cultural storytelling, entertainment and Maori kai (indigenous food). Feel the spirit of Te Puia at night and experience the heritage - a living legacy of people, culture and place. Feeding guests is regarded by Maori as an honour and a sign of a tribe’s mana (standing), so a sumptuous banquet is provided during the evening. This banquet combines contemporary cuisine with a traditional hangi (earth-cooked oven meal), where kai (food) is steam-cooked by hot rocks in the earth, giving it a delicious smoky flavour.
Accommodation: Regent of Rotorua (5*) Escape to The Regent of Rotorua, Rotorua’s newest designer 5 star Boutique Hotel & Spa offering stylish luxury accommodation, restaurant, wine & cocktail bar, all with a touch of glamour. An oasis of understated hip contemporary elegance and comfort amidst the exciting attractions and experiences Rotorua has to offer. Step out of the calm of your gorgeous room or suite and stroll to the vibrant restaurant zone or lakefront area….or simply stay in, relax and savour the hotel's luxury facilities.
Kaituna Waterfall Rafting
Day 3: Rotorua
The perfect day for families and adventurer's when in Rotorua. This includes 2-3 hours of superb Mountain biking, and extreme Kaituna Waterfall Rafting, a delicious lunch in a local bakery/cafe and a beautiful Kayak on Lake Rotoiti to thermal hot pools only accessible by boat. Your day includes return transport from Rotorua, GT Bike hire, Necessary Rafting and Kayaking Equipment, Lunch, Forest Concession fees and Hot Pool entry. This is a full day.
Accommodation: Regent of Rotorua (5*)
Tongariro Crossing
Day 4: Rotorua
The Tongariro Crossing is considered by many as one of the greatest 1-day hikes in the world, and a must do for the intrepid traveler. Boasting stunning views from all around, the hike begins from Mt Tongariro to Mt Ngauruhoe under the guidance of an experience regional expert whom will provide information about the local Kiwi on their tribal lands. Upon completion of this magnificent walk a return transfer to Rotorua is provided.
Accommodation: Regent of Rotorua (5*)
Queenstown
exterior
Day 5: Rotorua - Queenstown
A private vehicle with driver will provide a transfer between the airport and hotel.
Flight is required, currently not included in the quote.
A private vehicle will provide a transfer between the airport and your hotel.
You will be picked up and dropped off at your hotel in Queenstown. For many, this would have to be the ultimate challenge. Make no mistake, the Nevis Highwire Bungy is not for the nervous - with a wild 134 metres (440 feet) drop, the river seems to rush towards you faster than you`re rushing towards it!
Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Lakefront (4*) This family-friendly Queenstown property is situated close to Queenstown Gardens and Queenstown Harbour. Another nearby point of interest is TSS Earnslaw Steamship. In addition to minibars and complimentary weekday newspapers, guestrooms feature desks along with refrigerators, coffee/tea makers, and shower/tub combinations. In addition to a restaurant and spa services, Copthorne Resort Lakefront features a bar/lounge, a concierge desk, and a coffee shop/café.
Milford Sound Cruise
Day 6: Queenstown
Today you will be transferred to Queenstown Airport for your flight to Milford. During the flight, enjoy the panoramic views of spectacular alpine scenery, lush rainforest, and Milford Sound. When you arrive at Milford, you will be transferred to the wharf, and commence your scenic cruise of Milford Sound. The cruise affords great views of waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife. Picnic lunch included on board your cruise. Following lunch, transfer back to Milford Airport, for your return flight to Queenstown. On arrival back in Queenstown, you will be transferred back to your hotel.
Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Lakefront (4*)
Tandem Skydive
Day 7: Queenstown
Experience the thrill and excitement of parachute jumping in New Zealand with a tandem Skydive above Queenstown. The unique rural drop zone is 20 minutes from Queenstown on a private airstrip away from the main airport, nestled at the base of the Remarkable Mountains on the edge of Lake Wakatipu. The first skydive is a scary thing. You can expect a sensory overload as your mind, soul and body fight against every natural self preservatory urge. With this 12,000 foot jump you will experience 45 seconds of Free-falling!
Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Lakefront (4*)
The Remarkables Mountain Range
Day 8: Queenstown
This tour begins with an amazing helicopter flight over the Remarkables mountain range, followed by 18km of exclusive and varied biking terrain. Ride alongside an experienced guide, starting at the top section which is 6km of open rocky ridgeline, followed by 6km of the most beautiful flowing alpine single track. Finish with a fast blast down a 4wd road, in the Gibston Valley, also known as the valley of wines.
Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.
Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Lakefront (4*)
Queenstown
Shotover Jetboat Ride
Day 9: Queenstown
Snow capped mountains, a crystal clear lake and blue sky days provide the perfect alpine setting for an unforgettable winter holiday. Queenstown is a snow lover's paradise with several ski areas on its doorstep and an intoxicating après ski culture. The region’s ski season typically runs from early June until early October. Off the slopes, an abundance of activities; being labeled as the adventure capital, inspiring scenery and warm hospitality combine to offer something special for everyone. Thrill seekers can take their pick of adventure activities; home of bungee jumping, white water rafting, and hang-gliding to name a few. While those seeking relaxation can chill out on the golf course, in a vineyard, at a luxury spa or in the many shops, galleries, bars and restaurants. Alternatively, spend a day in historic Arrowtown or take in the magical scenery in Glenorchy.
Prepare for a thrilling and exciting Jet Boating experience aboard the world famous Shotover Jet. This is a unique, breathtaking white water ride, which provides and an adrenaline rush not soon to be forgotten. From the moment the accelerator hits the floor, riders adrenaline hits the roof, as this specially designed craft speeds along the famous Shotover River, deep into the spectacular Shotover River Canyons. As the Shotover Canyon walls tower above the boat, the expert driver puts the 'Big Red' Jet Boat through its paces and skilfully whips it past rocky outcrops, skims around crags and boulders, and speeds through the dramatic and narrow canyons. Make sure to hold on tight when the driver gives the signal, as the vehicle twists into the trademark 360° spins, rotating fully around within its own boat length and without losing any momentum, before continuing to speed along the river.
Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Lakefront (4*) Day 10: Queenstown
Relax during this transfer travelling between the airport and hotel.
Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport)
Accommodations
King Room
Sky City Grand Auckland (5*) - Auckland
Sky City Grand Hotel is centrally located in the heart of Auckland City, an urban oasis of contemporary elegance and style. The hotel offers 316 luxurious and comfortable accommodations. Choose from two distinctly stylish restaurants, a cocktail and lobby lounge and a unique function space. Take time out to pamper your body, mind and soul at East Day Spa, a luxury health and beauty spa. Refresh and tone at the well-appointed gymnasium or in the heated lap pool, or stay connected at the fully equipped, high tech business centre.
The Regent
Regent of Rotorua (5*) - Rotorua
Escape to The Regent of Rotorua, Rotorua’s newest designer 5 star Boutique Hotel & Spa offering stylish luxury accommodation, restaurant, wine & cocktail bar, all with a touch of glamour. An oasis of understated hip contemporary elegance and comfort amidst the exciting attractions and experiences Rotorua has to offer. Step out of the calm of your gorgeous room or suite and stroll to the vibrant restaurant zone or lakefront area….or simply stay in, relax and savour the hotel's luxury facilities.
exterior
Copthorne Hotel & Resort Lakefront (4*) - Queenstown
This family-friendly Queenstown property is situated close to Queenstown Gardens and Queenstown Harbour. Another nearby point of interest is TSS Earnslaw Steamship. In addition to minibars and complimentary weekday newspapers, guestrooms feature desks along with refrigerators, coffee/tea makers, and shower/tub combinations. In addition to a restaurant and spa services, Copthorne Resort Lakefront features a bar/lounge, a concierge desk, and a coffee shop/café.
Travel Info
Travel tips of New Zealand
VISA/PASSPORT
U.S. and Canadian citizens eligible for a visa waiver do not need a visa for tourist stays of three months or less.
Please note obtaining a visa is your responsibility. These requirements change often and therefore it is best that you check with the Embassy of New Zealand for the most up to date visa information.
HEALTH
Health insurance is recommended. Medical facilities are good quality. We recommend that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. The doctor or health-care provider will determine what vaccinations and medication you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. For more information on travel requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/new-zealand.aspx
COUNTRY INFO
Capital: Wellington.
Government: Constitutional monarchy since 1907.
Language: English is the common and everyday language, but other languages are also spoken, including Maori, which is New Zealand’s second official language (spoken by the indigenous Maori people who constitute approximately 15% of the population).
Religion: 55% Christian: Anglican, Presbyterian, Roman Catholic and Methodist are all represented.
Time: New Zealand: GMT + 12 (GMT + 13 from the last Sunday in September to the first Sunday in April). Chatham Island: GMT + 12.75 (GMT + 13.75 from the last Sunday in September to the first Sunday in April).
Electricity: 230 volts AC, 50Hz. Most hotels provide 110-volt AC sockets (rated at 20 watts) for electric razors only.
Telephone: Country code: 64. Most public phones take cards purchased from bookstalls; some also accept credit cards, but very few still accept coins.
Mobile Telephone: Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone companies. Coverage is good.
Internet: There are Internet cafes in cities and smaller town central business districts. Travelers may access the Internet at many hotels and youth hostels.
What's Included:
- Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services
What's not Included:
- International and Internal Flights - Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance
Trip Terms & Conditions
- Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $350). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure.
- Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of 30% of program price. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.
- Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
- Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
- Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
- Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
- Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.
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