itinerary
DAY 1. ARRIVE CHRISTCHURCH (D)
Kia Ora – Welcome to New Zealand. On arrival at the Christchurch International Airport, you will be met by an experienced Fun Over 50 Holidays Tour Host. We join our Coach Captain for a short sightseeing tour, offering a glimpse into the attractions, landmarks, history, culture and natural beauty of Christchurch. This evening, we meet for a delightful welcome dinner with fellow travellers. 2 Nights: Distinction Hotel, Christchurch
DAY 2 – CHRISTCHURCH (B,L,D)
This morning, embark on a self-guided tour of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Following this, board a traditional punt, a meticulously handcrafted flat-bottomed boat, and gracefully glide along the serene Avon River. Delight in the experience as a skilled punter, donned in traditional Edwardian attire, propels you gently from the historic Antigua Boat Sheds to the Botanic Gardens. This afternoon, we visit the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve for an enlightening guided tour. Our day culminates this evening with a dining experience at the Curators House, nestled in a heritage building within the picturesque Botanic Gardens. This culinary haven, boasting its own kitchen garden, serves dishes crafted from fresh regional produce with a notable Spanish influence.
DAY 3 – PUNAKAIKI (B,L,D)
This morning board the TranzAlpine rail service for a scenic rail journey through the heart of the mighty Southern Alps to Greymouth on the West Coast. Cross the fertile Canterbury Plains then wind through the gorge of the Waimakariri River and climb into Arthur’s Pass National Park. From the valleys of the snow-capped mountains, descend into the lush rainforests of Westland, to conclude the journey at the town of Greymouth. Continue the journey by coach to the small settlement of Punakaiki on the edge of the Paparoa National Park, renowned for its wild, rugged coastline and the famous ‘Pancake Rocks’ and blowholes. These stratified limestone stacks are an extraordinary monument of nature. 1 Night: Scenic Hotel, Punakaiki
DAY 4 – NELSON (B,L,D)
Departing Punakaiki, we continue north up the West Coast before travelling inland which follows the Buller River, enjoying the spectacular scenery of the Buller Gorge. Travel through remote bush covered mountains before travelling through the small towns of Inangahua, Murchison and then north to Nelson City. This afternoon we visit the Nelson Classic Car Museum which showcases a captivating collection of meticulously restored classic vehicles, offering a nostalgic journey through automotive history. 3 Nights: Tides Hotel, Nelson
DAY 5 – NELSON (B,L,D)
This morning visit Founders Heritage Park for a self-guided visit through a village of character buildings that are set in beautiful well-established gardens. The iconic Windmill Gift Shop has a range of local crafts made onsite and fun old-school gifts that will take you back to your childhood. Afterwards enjoy a wine tasting at Seifried Estate Winery, a local Nelson winery devoted to sustainable winegrowing and producing the very best Nelson has to offer.
DAY 6 – NELSON (B,L,D)
Merry Christmas! Start with a leisurely breakfast before going on a Christmas morning drive to Mapua, a small coastal village at the heart of Tasman Bay. We make our way back to Nelson to don your best Christmas attire and enjoy a Christmas lunch with all the trimmings at the hotel. Take the afternoon at leisure or join your Tour Host to enjoy some friendly games.
DAY 7. HANMER SPRINGS (B,L,D)
Today, we venture inland, travelling through to Blenheim in the heart of Marlborough Wine Country. The road travels south along the rugged coastline with the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Seaward Kaikoura Mountains on the other side before arriving in Kaikoura for lunch. After lunch, continue the journey to the alpine village of Hanmer Springs, one of New Zealand’s favourite retreats, perfect for rest or for adventure. Take a relaxing dip at Hanmer Springs thermal pools. The outdoor thermal pools are popular year-round where you can sit back and relax in the natural thermal water surrounded by towering trees and a magnificent mountain backdrop. 1 Night: Hanmer Springs Hotel
DAY 8 – CHRISTCHURCH (B,L,D)
Enjoy a leisurely start before we head south to the North Canterbury wine district to visit Waipara Springs Winery to sample wine before enjoying a shared platter lunch. We then journey south across north Canterbury farmlands before arriving into Christchurch. This evening experience the luxury of the colonial style dining tram. Incorporate fabulous dining with a sightseeing tour showcasing Christchurch’s inner city vibrancy and heritage. 2 Nights: Distinction Hotel, Christchurch
DAY 9 – CHRISTCHURCH (B,L,D)
Depart the hotel early this morning to visit the beautiful old French whaling depot of Akaroa on Banks Peninsula. We take a cruise on Akaroa Harbour which is known for its wildlife including penguins, marine birdlife and the very rare Hector’s Dolphins. After lunch visit the fabulous Giant’s House where the sculpture mosaic garden is colourful, interactive, and full of surprises. This afternoon, we retrace our journey back to Christchurch before enjoying a farewell dinner.
DAY 10. CHRISTCHURCH (B)
Farewell from New Zealand! Today you will be transferred from the hotel to Christchurch International Airport for your flight home.
B = Full Breakfast MT = Morning Tea L = Lunch AT = Afternoon Tea D = Two Course Dinner
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