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 Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and a culture of the last country to be inhabited by humans. New Zealand is blessed with perhaps the world’s largest concentration of stunning natural wonders, including geothermal pools, dramatic peaks, dense forests, scenic fjords and beaches. Yet New Zealand is much more than striking natural landscapes – and on a luxury all-gay tour, we unveil the country’s cosmopolitan side as well.
Discover New Zealand’s award-winning restaurants and wineries on a personally crafted culinary tour of the country, or take in the best of Queenstown and Auckland.
In Rotorua, gaze at the turquoise-blue waters of geothermal pools, a cloud of mist hanging over the water, for a truly otherworldly experience. Head for postcard-perfect Milford Sound, exploring it from an awe-inspiring cruise to the mouth of the fiord.. Set off on a jetboat safari on the Dart River, or hike on the shores of the flowing ice river of Franz Josef Glacier.
Day 1 - Monday, February 03, 2025 / February 16, 2026
Welcome to New Zealand! Auckland is a colorful vibrant city, often called the ‘city of sails’. Its spectacular setting on sparkling Waitemata Harbor and its major landmarks are the Harbor Bridge, the Sky Tower and Rangitoto Island, the region’s youngest volcano. Visitors can enjoy the magnificent harbor, enjoy the many and varied activities of the city or walk and hike in the nearby hills where native flora and fauna abound.
Upon arrival, your guide and driver will be waiting for you and will whisk you away to your luxury boutique accommodation. Your room will be available for immediate check-in for a seamless experience. We suggest everyone arrive by no later than Noon today in order to be ready for this afternoons activities, for which we will need to leave the hotel around 1pm.
After a rest we’ll visit Auckland Museum where upon arrival, you are treated to a performance of traditional song and dance by a Maori cultural group. Next, visit a He Taonga Maori (Maori Treasures) Gallery where you will hear exciting stories of the Pacific as well as New Zealand’s people, flora, fauna and landforms, are told in a series of fascinating exhibits. See a world-renowned collection of Polynesian artefacts including an 80-foot long Maori war canoe built in 1836.
This gallery contains over 1,000 artefacts from around Aotearoa (Maori name for New Zealand) which date back to the arrival and settlement of the Maori. Collected by the Museum over the last 150 years: these items, be they carved, woven or otherwise, provide descendants with tangible links to their past.
Following the museum visit, we return to our hotel, where you can spend the remainder of the afternoon at leisure to further continue your exploration of Auckland or relax and unwind. The choice is yours!
In the evening we’ll meet in the foyer of The Boathouse, located within the Park Hyatt Auckland, for a welcome drink and social.
Meals: Welcome Reception, Dinner
Hotel: Park Hyatt Auckland Hotel, Auckland, 5*
Day 2 - Tuesday, February 04, 2025 / February 17, 2026
After an included breakfast join us for a short walk to the Waterfront where you will ferry to Waiheke Island for an unforgettable gourmet food and wine tour. Upon arrival to Matiatia commence your privately guided tour of Waiheke Island. On the way, stunning scenery is around every corner, and you will be entertained by your guide’s commentary on the history, geography, culture, people and produce of Waiheke.
Arrive at Stony Batter Tunnels for a guided walk through the 1.2 km network of tunnels with stories about their purpose and construction. Stony Batter features gun sites and other impressive remains that date back to World War II.
Next we’ll have a wine tasting at Batch Vineyard. Batch is the highest vineyard on Waiheke Island, with great views back to Auckland City. They emphasize relaxed island- style dining, with sharing plates for the table to enjoy. Their chefs use fresh produce, free range and organic where possible, and add freshly picked herbs from their kitchen garden.
Later, visit Mudbrick Vineyard’s wine tasting room, set amongst beautiful gardens with spectacular views looking across the Waitemata Harbour to Auckland city. Mudbrick offers a range of wines to taste including locally-grown Viognier, Chardonnay, Syrah and Bordeaux varieties, as well as several aromatic wines from Marlborough.
We depart Waiheke on-board the ferry back to Auckland, then tonight, meet your fellow travelers in the hotel lobby for the short walk to Auckland’s Skytower where you’ll ride all the way to the top for your Welcome Dinner at The Sugar Club. Enjoy a specially prepared degustation menu with paired wines as you take in the panoramic views over the “City of Sails”.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel: Park Hyatt Auckland Hotel, Auckland, 5*
Day 3 - Wednesday, February 05, 2025 / February 18, 2026
In the morning, we will depart from the Auckland Hotel after breakfast and depart for Rotorua, New Zealand’s cultural heartland. Here the earth’s crust is so thin that its molten heart bubbles and steams at the surface. Often called ‘Sulphur City’ this town on an active fault line and the area’s bizarre natural wonders have fascinated visitors since the 1840’s. Home to one-third of the country’s Maori population, Rotorua holds a strong sense of Maori community and culture.
Journey South through lush rural farmland to the Hobbiton Movie Set. Hidden on private farmland near the town of Matamata, you will find the carefully created ‘village’ of Academy Award winning movies, the Lord of the Rings Trilogy. During your private guided tour of this awe-inspiring location, learn how farmland was transformed into a living, breathing, piece of Middle-earth. Be inspired as you see first-hand the incredible-well design sights of the Hobbit Holes, the Mill and even the Green Dragon Inn! A highlight of the tour is the opportunity to go inside a Hobbit hole. This interactive part of the tour gives you the chance to explore inside a Hobbit home!
Conclude at the Party Marquee where a full-themed, and unforgettable, dining experience awaits!
After lunch, we travel south to Rotorua, the cultural hub of New Zealand. Upon arrival at the Rotorua hotel, check-in and enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure.
Later, enjoy a 3-course meal at BARREL & Co. Bar & Grill, located within the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel: Pullman Rotorua Hotel, Rotorua, 5*
Day 4 - Thursday, February 06, 2025 / February 19, 2026
Enjoy a morning at leisure and lunch on your own.
At approximately 3:00pm,we depart on a full day ‘Insiders’ private tour of Rotorua.
Your first stop today is to the Te Paratehoata Marae (Tunohopu), Ohinemutu for a cultural spiritual and educational experience. You will be welcomed to Ohinemutu, a living Maori geothermal village and home to Ngati Whakaue. Ngati Whakaueis a sub-tribe of the Te Arawa waka (canoe) which journeyed from the Pacific homeland of Hawaiiki to New Zealand around 1350AD. You will be hosted by Ngati Whakaue descendants as you are welcomed onto Te Paratehoata Marae (gathering place).
Next we visit a Maori family home for a unique cultural connection. For over 170 years Te Arawa (confederation of local Maori tribes) has warmly welcomed and hosted people from all over the world. It is a tradition we call manaakitanga. You will be met by a well-known Maori family member where you will enjoy a Home Hosted Dinner and a 30-minute cultural engagement – gaining a genuine insight into local way of life and Rotorua’s famous guiding and hosting legacy.
Later, transfer to Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa where we’ll have exclusive use of the Sanctuary. Uniquely built on the legacy of Ngati Whakaue culture, healing practices and manaakitanga – the centuries-old and internationally-renowned Ngati Whakaue concept of welcoming manuhiri (visitors).
After, we return to the hotel for a restful night.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Hotel: Pullman Rotorua Hotel, Rotorua, 5*
Day 5 - Friday, February 07, 2025 / February 20, 2026
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for a short flight to Wellington. On arrival, enjoy a private tour of Wellington’s own world of moviemaking. Wellington is home to an entire community of creative Weta Workshop artisans who’ve brought life to such films as, The Lord of the Rings Trilogy, The Hobbit Trilogy, King Kong, The Chronicles of Narnia, Avatar, and many others. Learn about the real props, costumes and creatures created for your favourite films. Interact with cool stuff from the creative departments and catch an artist at work on the tour stage. Then enter a world of miniatures and model-making as you discover the filmmaking technique of miniature effects and learn how they are built for hit TV and film productions.
After enjoy a delicious lunch, before transferring to our beautiful accommodations.
Tonight, join your fellow travelers for dinner at Hippopotamus (French inspired); a delicious dining experience in a stunning setting.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel: QT Wellington Hotel, Wellington, 5*
Day 6 - Saturday, February 08, 2025 / February 21, 2026
Today, following breakfast, enjoy a full day walking tour of Wellington. As the capital of New Zealand, Wellington has a fascinating history and eclectic modern vibe. Home to politicians, academics, artists and artisans, this is a city where everyone is engaged with what makes New Zealand ‘tick’.
After lunch, at Egmont Street Eatery, you’ll enjoy a walking tour of the central city, including a ride on the funicular railway, which has been in operation since 1902 for magnificent views across the region.
Later, enjoy a one hour private tour of Te Papa Museum’s Maori highlights. Experience selected highlights through Te Papa’s taonga (Maori cultural treasures) and hear their stories for insights into Maori culture. From historic, artistic, and contemporary perspectives, you will be enriched in your understanding of what makes New Zealand’s Maori culture unique.
Upon returning to our hotel, the remainder of the day and dinner are on your own.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Hotel: QT Wellington Hotel, Wellington, 5*
Day 7 - Sunday, February 09, 2025 / February 22, 2026
This morning, experience one of the world’s most beautiful ferry rides. Our vessel, the Interislander, crosses the Cook Strait from Ferry to Picton.
The incredible views continue as you step aboard the Coastal Pacific train for our journey to Christchurch. Your train journey is perfectly scheduled to pass through the idyllic Canterbury Plains as the sun sets; we arrive in Christchurch just after it sinks beyond the horizon.
While you ease back and enjoy the seaside scenery and intimate views of Marlborough’s world-famous vineyards, they’ll be serving you a menu filled with freshly picked ingredients from the lands you pass through. The Coastal Pacific Scenic Plus experience introduces you to the natural flavors of the Pacific Ocean and the Marlborough and Canterbury regions.
Upon completion of our journey we settle in for a restful night in Queenstown.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel: The George Christchurch Hotel, Christchurch, 5*
Day 8 - Monday, February 10, 2025 / February 23, 2026
This morning we travel to Akaroa over the beautiful Banks Peninsula on a high summit route which gives glorious views of farmlands, Akaroa Harbor, Lyttelton Harbor, the Canterbury Plains, Christchurch City and the distant Southern Alps as well as remote bays indenting the coastline. This region was formed following violent eruptions of volcanoes over 6 million years ago and the picturesque town of Akaroa itself sits in an ancient volcanic crater.
Discover the breath-taking beauty of Akaroa Harbor on your private 2-hour luxury catamaran cruise. You’ll enjoy a personalized experience as you cruise past sea caves, towering cliffs, and volcanic rock formations. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to see the rare Hector’s dolphins, fascinating birdlife, New Zealand fur seals, and White-flippered penguins. Savour a complimentary glass of award-winning wine, beer, or non-alcoholic options, as well as fresh baked goods. From our welcoming check-in team to our knowledgeable skippers and onboard guides, you’ll receive a warm and friendly welcome. And with the help of our expert dolphin-spotting dogs, your dolphin encounter will be an unforgettable memory.
On the journey back to Christchurch, you will make a stop at the Little River Art Gallery. This tour concludes at your accommodation, where you are free for dinner on your own.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Hotel: The George Christchurch Hotel, Christchurch, 5*
Day 9 - Tuesday, February 11, 2025 / February 24, 2026
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and later this morning transfer to Mount Cook via Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki, one of New Zealand’s most scenic drives.
Your first stop today is at Lake Tekapo in the Mackenzie Basin. The township faces north across the remarkable, turquoise-colored lake to the mountainous drama of the Southern Alps. See the Church of the Good Shepard and take in the scenery before continuing onto Lake Pukaki, stopping en route for lunch at a local café, The Failie Bakehouse.
After checking in to our hotel and some time to refresh, join your fellow travelers for dinner in the hotel followed by stargazing at the Summit Experience, Mount John Observatory. You’ll start by looking at the stars with the naked eye, as your guides point out the sights with handheld lasers. Then you’ll dive deeper, with full use of our high-powered telescopes. That includes the impressive 16” telescope in the private observatory dome. Every night sky reveals something new. The incredible Milky Way. Far-off planets. Star clusters, solar systems, constellations. You might even glimpse a distant galaxy!
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel: Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo, Lake Tekapo, 5*
Day 10 - Wednesday, February 12, 2025 / February 25, 2026
Today after breakfast, we take an hour’s journey to New Zealand’s highest mountain, Aoraki/Mount Cook, in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. The road in will take you alongside beautiful Lake Pukaki to Mt Cook Alpine Village. Enjoy 25 minute alpine walk through the National Park. Then board your boat and commence your hour long cruise on the Tasman Glacier Lake. Experience the enormity of NZ’s largest glacier. The towering ice wall is really quite incredible, with an astonishing history. The glacier lake freezes over winter so the start of the season is subject to the lake thawing. On this tour you will explore and learn about the ever-changing glacial landscape as you journey across the terminal lake.
Lunch & Dinner are under your own arrangements today.
Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo, Lake Tekapo, 5*
Day 11 - Thursday, February 13, 2025 / February 26, 2026
After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll leave the Mount Cook National Park and travel to Queenstown. Go through the lakeside town of Twizel and then pass through the gliding capital of New Zealand—Omarama—before ascending the Lindis Pass. Follow the road to Cromwell, located at the head of the Kawarau Gorge, where we stop for a lovely lunch at Carrick Winery.
Continue toward the Gibbston Valley, one of New Zealand’s premier wine-growing regions. Visit the picturesque Arrowtown, an old goldmining settlement that retains much of its early character. It was the discovery of gold in Arrowtown which led miners by the thousands into the district and resulted in the formation of settlements adjacent to the gold diggings. From 1869 there was small community of Chinese miners living in Arrowtown.
See the historic Kawarau Bridge, where you can bungee jump or relax and watch others take the plunge. Approaching Queenstown, the Remarkables mountain range comes into view as you arrive in the adventure capital of the world.
The remainder of your day is at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Hotel: QT Queenstown Hotel, Queenstown, 5*
Day 12 - Friday, February 14, 2025 / February 27, 2026
Today is a full day private Coach-Cruise-Fly tour of Milford Sound. On boarding your luxury coach in Queenstown, travel along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and through the rolling countryside to Te Anau. After a short break, the coach continues along the spectacular alpine route of the Milford Road through impressive, awe-inspiring scenery. There is time for photo stops and short walks along the way. Considered one of the most beautiful drives in the world, experience this journey in comfort with a detailed commentary from your friendly coach driver. On reaching Milford Sound, join a spectacular one hour 40 minute cruise to the mouth of the fiord on a spacious, modern vessel with excellent viewing opportunities and access to the VIP Lounge, where we’ll enjoy a delicious buffet lunch. Keep a look out for seals basking on the rocks, dolphins and penguins. Enjoy scenic highlights such as Mitre Peak and Pembroke Glacier. Informative commentary explains the history and highlights points of interest during the cruise.
Following the cruise, you will be transferred to your aircraft for the return flight to Queenstown (weather permitting). During the 35 minute scenic flight, take in expansive views of golden tussocked high country and the upper reaches of Lake Wakatipu and fly over the snow-capped Southern Alps. A hidden landscape unfolds below revealing glacial lakes, waterfalls, densely forested valleys and cloud-piercing summits. In case weather does not allow proper conditions for the flight, we will return to Queenstown by bus.
Dinner tonight is on your own.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Hotel: QT Queenstown Hotel, Queenstown, 5*
Day 13 - Saturday, February 15, 2025 / February 28, 2026
Following breakfast, you will be at leisure until the late afternoon. No scheduled activities have been planned. Use this day to continue the exploration of Queenstown or choose from the endless list of optional touring*.
Tonight, raise a glass to your fellow travelers and say farewell at a special dinner with paired wines, as this concludes your time spent in the land down under, Cheers!
*Optional touring not included. A list of options and tour costs will be provided approximately 30 days prior to the trip. Tour elections will be handled by our local host in Auckland.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Hotel: QT Queenstown Hotel, Queenstown, 5*
Day 14 - Sunday, February 16, 2025 / March 01, 2026
Following check-out, transfer by private vehicle or coach to Queenstown airport.
Fly once and see two countries: This trip is scheduled back to back with our Australia trip so that you can fly to the South Pacific once and see two countries.
If you are joining the Australia, Tasmania & Sydney Mardi Gras 2025 Luxury Gay Tour, February 16 - March 3, 2025, which immediately follows this trip, please ask about the flight to connect Queenstown to Melbourne.
Meals: Breakfast
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• Explore the Auckland Museum and see dance by a Maori cultural group.
• Visit to Waiheke Island for an unforgettable gourmet food and wine tour.
• See Rotorua, New Zealand’s cultural heartland, often called ‘Sulphur City, where the earth’s crust is so thin that its molten heart bubbles and steams at the surface.
• Tour Matamata, you will find the carefully created ‘village’ of Academy Award winning movies, the Lord of the Rings Trilogy.
• Enjoy the healing properties of Hell's Gate Mud and Sulphur Spa.
• Partake in an evening cultural experience of storytelling including a visit to a Maori family home for a unique cultural connection.
• Inclusive flight to Wellington, where victorian architecture graces the steep hills surrounding one of the finest harbors and most beautiful coastlines in the country.
• Private tour of Wellington's Weta Workshop such films as, The Lord of the Rings Trilogy, The Hobbit Trilogy, King Kong, The Chronicles of Narnia, Avatar, and many others have been brought to life.
• Walking tour of New Zealand's capital city, Wellington.
• Cross the Cook Strait from Ferry to Picton on one of the world’s most beautiful ferry rides, the Interislander,
Train journey on the Coastal Pacific train through the idyllic Canterbury Plains.
• Full day private tour to Akaroa, the only settlement attempted by the French in New Zealand.
• Journey from Christchurch to Mount Cook via Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki, one of New Zealand’s most scenic drives
Stargazing at the Mount John Observatory.
• Glacier Explorer Cruise at Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
• See Arrowtown, an old goldmining settlement that retains much of its early character and visit Kawarau Bungy Bridge.
• Journey over the Devil’s staircase and along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau.
• Sail through Milford Sound on a spectacular cruise to the mouth of the fiord.
• Take advantage of a day at leisure in Queenstown to choose from an endless list of optional adventure tours.
• FROM THE TIME YOU LAND UNTIL YOU LEAVE, NEARLY EVERYTHING IS INCLUDED
• Brand g and local host(s) throughout your trip.
• Airport arrival and departure transfers.
• Two nights hotel accommodation at the Park Hyatt Auckland Hotel
• Welcome reception and dinner on arrival in Auckland.
• Two nights hotel accommodation at the Pullman Rotorua Hotel.
• Internal flights to Wellington.
• Two nights hotel accommodation at the QT Wellington.
• Two nights accommodation at Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo
• Two nights hotel accommodation at The George Christchurch Hotel
• Four nights hotel accommodation at the The QT Queenstown Hotel
• All touring meals as described in the trip itinerary.
Park Hyatt Auckland Hotel, Auckland
With a prime waterfront location overlooking Waitemata Harbor, the Park Hyatt Auckland provides one of Auckland’s most sophisticated and luxurious places to stay and dine. With an exterior designed to reflect a welcoming Maori wharenui (house), and interiors created for comfort and elegance, the hotel’s design evokes a haven of tranquility.
All the guestrooms feature Maori accents, custom-designed tukutuku panels and rugs, made from New Zealand wool, as well as floor to ceiling windows for views of the quay or harbour. The Park Hyatt features multiple dining options including signature restaurant Onemata and the more casual Pantry, both offering fresh, seasonal meals, plus The Living Room for all-day dining and the Captain’s Bar for a range of cocktails and bar snacks. There is also a day spa, a 25 meter infinity pool and a full fitness center.
Pullman Rotorua Hotel, Rotorua
Situated in Rotorua, 500 m from Tamaki Maori Village, Pullman Rotorua features accommodation with a restaurant, private parking, a fitness centre and a bar. Located right in the heart of downtown, The Pullman Rotorua is convenient to some of the best attractions including Te Puia, the Polynesian Spa and the Te Ruapeka Bay.
Among the facilities at this property are a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi throughout the property. The rooms are spacious and stylish, with wonderful views across the city. Equipped with all the services and amenities you would expect from a 5-star and a fine dining restaurant that serves excellent local cuisine and wines.
QT Wellington Hotel, Wellington
QT Wellington offers a fusion of luxurious art, technology and indulgence. It boasts an eclectic collection of New Zealand art and features a fitness centre.
Each of the rooms at QT Wellington include abstract lines and playful patterns. Surrounded by urban hills, the rooms include satellite TV, a private bathroom with hairdryer and ironing facilities. Some rooms feature harbour views.
Leisure facilities include a spa pool, and a sauna. QT Wellington is a 3-minute walk from Courtenay Place, Waitangi Park and Oriental Parade beach. Free internet access is available in the hotel.
Hippopotamus Restaurant is open daily for breakfast. The Cocktail Bar and Restaruant are open for dinner Thursday to Sunday, and high tea is served Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Hot Sauce serves Asian-inspired fare and cool cocktails evenings Tuesday to Sunday.
The lobby Lounge is open for coffee, drinks and all-day dining for guests to enjoy the hotel's art collection. QT Wellington is home to one of New Zealand's largest private art collections, displayed in the lobby and public spaces throughout the hotel. The fourth floor features Gallery 4 Rooms with bespoke works by Wellington and New Zealand artists.
The George Christchurch Hotel, Christchurch
Centrally located in pretty Christchurch, overlooking Hagley Park and the River Avon, the George is a luxurious 5-star boutique hotel. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi.
The George, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, has 53 stylish and comfortable guest rooms. All of the accommodation is spacious, features contemporary furnishings and has a modern bathroom. Guests can enjoy a great range of modern in-room amenities including 42” LCD TV, digital movie system and complimentary bathroom toiletries.
50 Bistro is an award-winning restaurant at the property, which serves contemporary cuisine and also offers al fresco dining on the terrace.
The George is within easy reach of the city centre and its arts centre, restaurants and theatres. Christchurch Botanic Gardens is also on your doorstep. Christchurch Casino is just a 3-minute walk away.
Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo, Lake Tekapo
Peppers Bluewater Resort is a 4.5-star hotel close to the shores of Lake Tekapo. This resort offers luxury accommodation, great views and is ideally positioned for exploring the Mackenzie Basin and Southern Alps. It is a 10-minute walk from the Church of the Good Shepherd.
The air-conditioned accommodation has a private bathroom and tea and coffee making facilities. Most feature a balcony, fully equipped kitchen and mountain or lake views. WiFi access is available for an additional charge.
The on-site restaurant, Rakinui, is open daily for breakfast, lunch and an à la carte dinner. It boasts great views over Lake Tekapo. A room service menu is available.
Peppers Bluewater Resort is a 35-minute drive from Ohau Ski Field. It is a scenic two and half hour drive from both Christchurch and Queenstown.
QT Queenstown Hotel, Queenstown
Views over the crystal clear Lake Wakatipu and breathtaking peaks of the Southern Alps set the scene at QT Queenstown. This lush lakeside resort features luxury accommodations with a side of the signature QT quirk.
Foodies with adventurous tastes will be enticed by the bustle and aromas of our Bazaar Marketplace. Chefs create dishes before your eyes in a buzzing, interactive setting where the flavors draw inspiration from the beautiful, fresh local produce.
Head to Reds Bar, where locals and guests mix and share stories of the day over an exquisitely prepared cocktail or boutique brew.
The Lake King rooms have magnificent views over the stunning Lake Wakatipu. This irresistible room is the perfect place to soak up the scene. Breathe in the mountain magic from your Juliet balcony and wake up to it from your luxurious king bed. Surrounded by designer comfort, the sleek bathroom comes with a standalone bath and separate shower with ALICE amenities. Opening windows provide natural delights and your entertainment extras complete the modern comforts.
When should I schedule my flights?
Arrival: You should schedule your flights to arrive to Auckland Airport (AKL) by February 3rd, 2025. The first activity that day will be at approximately 1:00pm.
Departure: You should schedule your flights to depart from Queenstown International Airport (ZQN) at any time on February 16th, 2025. Check out time from the Hotel on is 11:00am.
If you are adding on the Australia trip, please ask about adding the flight to connect Queenstown to Melbourne.
What are the passport or visa requirements?
A passport, which is valid for six months after your last date of travel, is required for this trip.
Citizens of the United States and Canada (as well as many other countries) traveling to New Zealand under the visa waiver program are required to have an NZeTA. It can take up to 72 hours to process an NZETA, so you should apply well in advance of your trip. If your home country is not a visa waiver country, you should consult your nearest New Zealand consulate or embassy to apply for a visa.
What arrival and departure transfers are included?
This package includes an arrival transfer from the Auckland Airport (AKL) to the Auckand Hotel and a departure transfer from the Queenstown Hotel to Queenstown International Airport (ZQN) . If you extend your stay at these properties, the transfers will still be included. Contact our team or your travel agent to ensure arrangements outside of these arrival and departure transfers will be included. Booked guests should provide their arrival and departure details 45 days prior to the trip to ensure transfer availability.
What if I have dietary requirements?
We will make every effort to accommodate special dietary requests. Please inform our office at least 45 days prior to departure of these requests.
What are pre-paid gratuities?
Gratuities are customary expressions of appreciation for a job well done. It is our goal to ensure that the service you receive is as wonderful as the sites you visit. Gratuities for the included portions of this program have been pre-paid. At your own discretion you may choose to provide additional tips.
What should I expect on the included tours?
Excursions during your travel program are mostly in groups of 25 or fewer people and are led by expert English speaking local guides. Utilizing wireless audio guides enables you to hear every word of your travel guide at absolutely all times. It provides maximum flexibility and convenience without missing a moment of fascinating commentary and is compatible with hearing aids.
Is there a dress code?
You are on vacation as the last thing we want to impose is a dress code. We will however appreciate you wearing more than a thong or mankini at lunch and dinner. Be as dressed up or down as you see fit as long as you are comfortable and dress appropriately for changeable weather.
Are vaccinations required?
Most US travelers are covered by routine vaccinations. US citizens should consult the Centers for Disease Control website or your health care provider for vaccination requirements and recommendations. Citizens of all other countries should consult their government’s national disease center or their physician.
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