50 | RAIL & CRUISE JOURNEY

GREAT CLASSIC JOURNEY RAIL & CRUISE EXPERIENCE 16 DAYS – AUCKLAND TO

7 Nights North Island | 7 Nights | 1 Night Overnight Cruise

YOUR INCLUDED SIGNATURE EXPERIENCES Coach Cruise Board the Glenbrook steam train Train Experience true Māori culture AUCKLAND 2 1 No. of Nights Stay at a traditional Hāngī Feast Included Experiences/ Glenbrook Vintage Railway Freedom of Choice™ 2 Rotorua Discover a self-drive Rail Cart National Park experience in the Taumarunui Ranges Rail Cruising Explore Fell Locomotive Museum Experience Tongariro 1 National Park Cruise Cook Strait on the ferry Featherston Journey aboard the Coastal Pacific Rail Ride the famous TranzAlpine train Picton 2 Take in idyllic surrounds at Franz Josef Enjoy a Doubtful Sound overnight cruise TranzAlpine Train Coastal Pacific Train Board the Taieri Gorge Railway Greymouth Enjoy a ride aboard the train Franz Josef Glacier 1 CHRISTCHURCH 1 Admire Aoraki Mt Cook National Park 1 Mt Cook Moeraki KEY Queenstown 2 Waitati Seasider Train SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE 2 Dunedin Doubtful Sound TM 1 FREEDOM OF CHOICE – Sightseeing overnight cruise Taieri Gorge Railway FREEDOM OF CHOICETM – Dining

(B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (D) Dinner

ARRIVE & EXPLORE AUCKLAND Day 3. Auckland, Glenbrook Vintage Day 4. Rotorua. Day 1. Arrive Auckland. Railway, Rotorua. Perhaps experience the icons of Rotorua Today your New Zealand Rail and Cruise This morning travel to the rural area at the famed Agrodome Farm Show, then adventure begins. Prepare for a journey of of Glenbrook and on arrival, board the make your way to Rainbow Springs Nature discovery, delving into unique and traditional Glenbrook Vintage Railway. Lovingly Park. Here you will visit a working kiwi experiences, a colourful cultural history and restored, you will enjoy a journey through the nursery, learning all about the national animal awe-inspiring natural wonders. Arrive in beautiful rural Franklin countryside aboard and the conservation endeavours that are Auckland where you’ll be met at the airport this historic steam train, revelling in the sense being implemented to protect these and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy some of travelling back in time. Travel to Victoria extraordinary endangered birds. Various time to settle in and spend the evening Avenue and Waiuku, before enjoying a stop other bird species and reptiles also reside at your leisure. at the Pukeoware Depot to explore the here, an ode to the efforts taken by the Two Night Stay: Grand Millennium Auckland. workshop, view other historic regional country to protect their native wildlife. locomotives undergoing restoration, Afterwards, visit the fascinating Te Puia Day 2. Auckland. and indulge in a delightful morning tea. Thermal Reserve, the centre for Māori Enjoy the opportunity to discover the Later, reboard the train and travel back to culture. The unique architecture of the Marae, ‘City of Sails’ with our range of sightseeing Glenbrook. This afternoon, board your coach or meeting place, with its engraved buildings inclusions. Perhaps take a cruise on for your journey to Rotorua. Known for its and carved symbols perched on the top of Waitemata Harbour, head off on a Waiheke bubbling mud pools, geysers shooting jets the roof speaks volumes about Māori history Island wine tour, or explore the fantastic of water high into the air and steaming hot and artistry. Alternatively, take a Hobbiton Auckland Museum. Alternatively, get up springs, Rotorua is a land humming with Movie Set tour for an enthralling insight into close to marine life at Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life geothermal activity. This evening, immerse the making of The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Aquarium and see New Zealand’s only colony yourself in Māori culture as you enjoy Perhaps drive through forest and farmland of Antarctic penguins, or perhaps set off on a traditional Hāngī Feast and witness to visit New Zealand’s largest boiling mud a Wilderness Adventure into the Waitakere a fascinating cultural performance. pool and colourful hot springs; or explore Rainforest, or take a trip to the harbourside Two Night Stay: Holiday Inn Rotorua, Redwood Treewalk with a Māori guide, suburb of Devonport. This evening, enjoy a overlooking Whakarewarewa walking up to 12 metres above the ground delicious Welcome Dinner as you get to know Thermal Reserve. BD amongst the 115-year-old gentle giants. B your Tour Director and fellow travellers. BD RAIL & CRUISE JOURNEY | 51

The Coastal Pacific Rail traverses picturesque landscapes

ITINERARY OVERVIEW

DAY DESTINATION INCLUDED HIGHLIGHT DAY DESTINATION INCLUDED HIGHLIGHT

1 Auckland Arrival 9 Franz Josef Glacier TranzAlpine train 2 Auckland Freedom of Choice 10 Queenstown Freedom of Choice 3 Rotorua Hāngī Feast 11 Queenstown Freedom of Choice 4 Rotorua Freedom of Choice 12 Te Anau Doubtful Sound cruise 5 Tongariro National Park Forgotten World Railway 13 Dunedin Dunedin 6 Wellington Fell Locomotive Museum 14 Dunedin Taieri Gorge Railway 7 Wellington Cable Car ride 15 Mt Cook Seasider Train Railway 8 Christchurch Coastal Pacific Train 16 Christchurch Farewell

Day 5. Rotorua, Rail Cruising Experience, This museum offers a great insider’s look at EXPLORE CHRISTCHURCH Tongariro National Park. New Zealand’s intriguing rail history. Delight & THE COASTAL PACIFIC TRAIN Farewell Rotorua and travel to in a relaxing afternoon tea before travelling Day 8. Wellington, Picton, Coastal Pacific Taumarunui where your rail cart awaits for to Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital Train, Christchurch. a self-drive rail cruising experience along city by the water. In spite of its small size, This morning, say goodbye to the North a decommissioned railway line. Hop aboard Wellington is brimming with character and Island as you step aboard the Interislander and travel through tunnels, over bridges and charm. Enjoy time to settle in at your hotel ferry and cruise across Cook Strait, passing past a collection of charming towns at your before dinner this evening. through the picturesque Marlborough and own pace on a leisurely discovery through Two Night Stay: Rydges Hotel Wellington. BD Queen Charlotte sounds to Picton. Take in the landscapes of Whanganui National Park. the stunningly serene vistas as you relax on Day 7. Wellington. Experience the beauty of the North Island board. Once you’ve arrived in Picton, board Discover the delights of Wellington today. as the rolling green hills brush gently by, the Coastal Pacific train and enjoy a journey After breakfast, set off on a sightseeing tour. and take some time out over a delicious through the rugged east coast. Traverse Take in the city’s best-loved landmarks and picnic lunch. Afterwards, travel to Tongariro rolling fields and glimpse at hidden towns sights, including New Zealand’s national National Park for a night at the historic along the coast, famous for its museum – Te Papa Tongarewa, renowned for and iconic Chateau Tongariro Hotel. marine mammal encounters. Make your being interactive and innovative. Afterwards, Stay: Chateau Tongariro Hotel. BLD way to the idyllic Southern Island and ride Wellington’s iconic Cable Car, gaining Christchurch. Set against a backdrop of METROPOLITAN WELLINGTON a fresh perspective as you gaze out across the majestic Southern Alps that descend Day 6. Tongariro National Park, Wellington. this coastal city to landmarks such as the into the roiling ocean, Christchurch is a city Farewell the beautiful Tongariro National Nagasaki Peace flame, which commemorates of innovation. Here you will find a city which Park following breakfast this morning. the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima celebrates art, creativity and regeneration Today’s journey takes you to the town and Nagasaki at the end of World War II. while simultaneously staying true to its of Featherston where you will have the The afternoon and evening have been left traditional English heritage. opportunity to explore the fascinating free for you to enjoy Wellington at your own Stay: Christchurch, Fell Locomotive Museum, home to H199, pace. Perhaps grab a bite to eat at one of Commodore Hotel. BD the only locomotive of its type in the world. the renowned waterfront restaurants. B 52 | RAIL & CRUISE JOURNEY

Day 9. Christchurch, TranzAlpine Train, Franz Josef Glacier. This morning, board the TranzAlpine train for one of the world’s greatest rail adventures. Head to the open-air viewing platform and enjoy stunning views as you journey through the striking patchwork farmlands of the Canterbury Plains. Follow the Waimakariri River and travel across the magnificent Southern Alps within Arthur’s Pass National Park. Disembark at Greymouth and travel by coach to Franz Josef, where you have the opportunity to take in the dramatic terrain of the Franz Josef region. From the alpine snowfields, to verdant rainforests, blue ice caves, beautiful lakes and glacial rivers, the natural surrounds of the area are guaranteed to captivate. Stay: Franz Josef Glacier, Scenic Hotel Franz Josef. BD

PICTURE PERFECT QUEENSTOWN Day 10. Franz Josef Glacier, Queenstown. Enjoy a day of truly breathtaking scenery as you travel along the Haast River. Rich in cultural and geographical significance, the river offers sublime views of some of New Zealand’s most picturesque stretches. Arrive at Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital. This evening you will choose from four tempting restaurants in which to dine. Perhaps sample the delicious fresh produce at waterside Finz Seafood & Grill restaurant, or board a scenic gondola ride to the Skyline Restaurant to enjoy views across Queenstown as you dine. Alternatively, cruise aboard the TSS Earnslaw, a vintage steamboat, or enjoy dinner at the Be enchanted by the sublime views from the Seasider Train acclaimed Elements Restaurant. Whatever your choice, your meal is sure to be a Day 12. Queenstown, Doubtful Sound. Day 14. Taieri Gorge Railway, Dunedin. memorable one. Embark on one of the most scenic drives Wake up this morning in Dunedin, a city Two Night Stay: Queenstown, today as you journey along into the heart that was originally planned in Scotland and Novotel Queenstown Lakeside. BD of Fiordland National Park. Here you’ll find whose name is derived from the Scottish Day 11. Queenstown. some of the world’s most sublime natural Gaelic name for Edinburgh. With its proud Enjoy the opportunity to personalise landscapes, from immense lakes to Victorian and Edwardian heritage buildings your journey today by choosing from a range picturesque walking tracks. Board a cruise that are still impeccably maintained today, of Freedom of Choice sightseeing activities. across Lake Manapouri before travelling by it is reminiscent of its European counterpart. The Lord of the Rings fans will jump at the coach over Wilmot Pass to arrive at Doubtful Step aboard the Taieri Gorge Railway and chance to visit key filming locations on Sound, the second largest fiord within the journey through the picturesque Southland a Safari of the Scenes tour, fusing the national park. The fiord is rich in flora and countryside. One of the world’s greatest rail cinematic landscapes of New Zealand with fauna, so keep watch for New Zealand Fur trips, the Taieri Gorge Railway reveals some the magic of Middle-earth. Thrill seekers Seals and Fiordland Crested Penguins that of the South Island’s most diverse and may opt to take an exhilarating ride on call this place home. During your time here, splendid scenery while weaving through the famous Shotover Jet Boat, a Skippers board a spectacular overnight cruise to tunnels and over bridges in a smooth and Canyon adventure or a river safari along the discover rugged peaks, hidden islets and effortless fashion. Afterwards, you will enjoy

Dart River. New Zealand is rightly famous for pristine rainforests. the rest of the day at leisure. B Stay: Doubtful Sound overnight cruise. BD its many vineyards and wines, and a tour of MARVELLOUS MT COOK the wine-producing areas is a tempting offer Day 13. Doubtful Sound, Dunedin. Day 15. Dunedin, Seasider Train, Mt Cook. today. Why not tour the country’s premier Leave the Fiordland region this morning Board the Seasider train and travel along wine-producing region and savour the and travel to Dunedin on the east coast of Otago Harbour before climbing the gentle delicious local offerings? Nature enthusiasts New Zealand. This long-established city is slopes of Port Chalmers on the Pacific coast. may enjoy a farm experience at Mt Nicholas often referred to as being the Edinburgh of From here, rejoin your coach and journey or a bird walk through the surrounding the South. Wander the streets and admire to Oamaru. Head north to see the unusual wilderness. A relaxing cruise on Lake the historical buildings that still stand in Moeraki Boulders. Scattered across the Wakatipu is also on offer should you wish immaculate condition. Koekohe Beach and weighing several tonnes to marvel at the magnificent alpine scenery Two Night Stay: Dunedin, each, these large, spherical stones were at close quarters. B Scenic Hotel Southern Cross. BD formed more than 60 million years ago. According to Māori legend, the boulders are gourds, kumaras and eel baskets that washed RAIL & CRUISE JOURNEY | 53

Cruise Doubtful Sound and be captivated by your surrounds ashore after the legendary voyaging canoe, Araiteuru, was wrecked upon landing in Your Unforgettable Holiday Includes New Zealand hundreds of years ago. Continue to World Heritage-listed Aoraki Included sightseeing in up to 19 locations Mt Cook National Park to view Australasia’s highest mountain and the sublime alpine Return airport transfers and porterage scenery. Head to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, which includes a visit to Services of an APT Tour Director and Driver the planetarium and a stargazing session 15 nights hand-picked accommodation with an astronomer. Stay: Mt Cook, The Hermitage Hotel, Finest dining – a total of 26 meals in a room with alpine views. BD

Day 16. Mt Cook, Lake Tekapo, Christchurch. Awake to the captivating landscapes that 2018/19 DATES & PRICES (A$) PER PERSON New Zealand boast for the final time this morning. Your journey may be coming to an 16 DAYS (NRC16) end, but not before enjoying more incredible 2018 Twin Share Solo Trav. sightseeing and travel opportunities. Following breakfast, drive along the Oct. 9, 23; Nov. 13, 20. $7,695 $10,295 spectacular shores of Lake Pukaki to Lake 2019 Tekapo. Here you will visit the tiny Church of the Good Shepherd. Built from locally Jan. 8, 15, 22; Feb. 5, 19, 26; Mar. 12, 26. $7,695 $10,295 gathered stone and oak, this church was Oct. 22; Nov. 12, 26. $7,995 $10,695 erected as a tribute to the early pioneers of the area. Take a quiet moment to step inside PLEASE NOTE: Bold dates indicate Guaranteed Departures. Prices are fully inclusive of all sightseeing, the church and gaze out onto breathtaking entrance fees, cruises, meals as specified and accommodation. Seniors Card holders and Australian/ New Zealand pensioners deduct $75 per person. Itinerary effective 9 Oct. 2018 – 26 Mar. 2019. Tours views of the immense lake and surrounding departing outside these dates follow a different itinerary – enquire for details. alpine vistas. Later, continue to Christchurch, where your tour concludes as you transfer ASK ABOUT OUR SUPERDEAL SAVINGS to the airport for your onward journey. B