Day 1:      Arrival in Christchurch.  You'll be met at the airport for your transfer into Christchurch. (2 nights Christchurch). 

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Day 2:      Spend the day in Christchurch at your leisure. Wander the cafes and shops in Christchurch or ride the Gondola for great views of the city. Make sure you visit the beautiful botanic gardens, while you're there go punting on the Avon River. 

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Day 3:      Today you're off to Dunedin via a coach transfer. (2 night Dunedin)

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Day 4:      You're off to explore the Otago Peninsula this morning. Begin with a scenic bus tour of the beautiful Otago Peninsula out to the Royal Albatross Centre, where you can view the majestic Royal Albatross in their natural environment. Next is a guided land tour of a Yellow Eyed Penguin Reserve to see the rarest penguin in the world - found only on the south-east coast of New Zealand. Afterwards, experience a fully guided tour of Larnach Castle - New Zealand's only castle, originally built in 1871. Finish the day with a wildlife cruise aboard the M.V. Monarch from Wellers Rock Wharf.  See what cannot be seen from the land: Albatross, NZ Fur Seals and up to 20 species of bird and marine life. You may also see dolphins and even some sea lions.

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Day 5:      Leaving Dunedin today you're on a coach transfer to Queenstown.  (3 nights Queenstown)

 

Day 6:      Today you're exploring deep into the heart of the heart of the world-renowned Mount Aspiring National Park on a half day jet boating adventure. You’ll experience a unique combination of breath-taking scenery and an exhilarating ride as we follow the braided, glacier-fed rivers by jet boat.Your guides give you their authentic touch, talking about the area’s rich history, the Greenstone trail and countless Maori legends. We’ll also take the chance to tie up the boat and let you walk amongst the ancient beech tree forests – an atmosphere you may recognize from The Lord of the Rings films.

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Day 7:      You have the day at leisure in Queenstown today.  You have many options for activities today. We recommend riding the Skyline Gondola for views of the lake and township. Have fun on the luge and soak up the scenery.  You can even do star gazing at night after dinner. If you're after something more adventurous there's bungy jumping or skydiving. Don't forget about the chance to visit local wineries and food artisans.   

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Day 8:      Today you pick up a rental car and drive to Franz Josef. (2 nights Franz Josef)

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Day 9:      You're off exploring the Franz Josef Glacier today. After a thrilling flight high above the rugged terrain you will land on the glacier, ready to undertake a three hour guided glacier hike. Your friendly guide will lead you through some of the most pristine and awe-inspiring glacier scenery in the world. You'll soon be making your way through an extraordinary land of towering peaks and glistening blue ice (spend up to three hours on the ice). After spending time on a glacier, nothing sounds better than hot pools. Nestled in lush rainforest, the hot pools are a haven of natural tranquility and the perfect way to relax and unwind after exploring the glacier region.

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Day 10:    You leave Franz Josef today and drive through to Nelson. (3 nights Nelson)

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Day 11:    You get to explore Abel Tasman National Park today on a full day sailing adventure.  Depart Kaiteriteri cruising past Split Apple Rock and along the bush clad coastline. Take in the golden beaches and bays, lagoons, islands and birdsong. There is opportunity for a short walk. An hour long lunch stop at Anchorage Beach allows for exploring, swimming or relaxing. Continue on your cruise checking out the antics of NZ fur seals and catching the afternoon seabreeze back to Kaiteriteri. Have a go at sailing or just sit back, relax and enjoy.

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Day 12:    Spend the day at leisure in Nelson.

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Day 13:    Depart for home

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* Coach tours can be arranged if you would prefer not to drive.

* This itinerary is designed for you to have time to explore at your leisure. We can arrange more activities if you wish.