The Long White Cloud

19 days
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4.6/5 Excellent
100+ reviews  
98%
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USTOA

Cancellation Policy
Small Group Tour
Traverse New Zealand’s North and South Islands, from the hot pools of Franz Josef/Waiau, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience in Dunedin, to the brave depths of Queenstown, the adventure capital. Explore extraordinary landscapes and ancient heritage, as you encounter New Zealand as few have seen it before.
26%
$15,102
From$11,187
See departure dates

Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

What's this trip about?

    Traverse New Zealand’s North and South Islands, from the hot pools of Franz Josef/Waiau, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience in Dunedin, to the brave depths of Queenstown, the adventure capital. Explore extraordinary landscapes and ancient heritage, as you encounter New Zealand as few have seen it before.

Details

Itinerary focusClassic Highlights
Group sizeGroup - max of 40 people
Age range6 years and up
Flights and transportN/A
Start CityChristchurch (Nz)
End CityAuckland

Travel Themes

  • Cultural

Destinations

  • New Zealand

Activities

  • Culture

Max Group Size

  • Max Group Size: 40

Trip includes

    • Small group (average16 guests) 33 included meals 18 Nights premium and authentic accommodation

Itinerary

Travel Map

Day 1: Welcome to Christchurch

On arrival at Christchurch Airport you'll be driven by private car to your hotel. Spend some time at leisure to relax or explore on your own. In the evening meet your Journey Director for a Welcome Reception.

Hotel Montreal Christchurch

Welcome Reception

Day 2: Christchurch – TranzAlpine – Franz Josef/Waiau

It's all aboard the TranzAlpine train. Rated as one of the world's great scenic railway journeys, you'll travel in comfort across the Canterbury Plains through to the Southern Alps. From Arthur's Pass, visit the small town of Hokitika, the heritage and cultural centre...

Day 3: Franz Josef/Waiau (Relaxed Start)

This morning, explore Franz Josef/Waiau, where a local guide explains the history behind the imposing Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere.

Te Waonui Forest Retreat

Full Breakfast

Day 4: Franz Josef/Waiau - Arrowtown - Queenstown

This morning it’s time for an adventure as we journey down the Haast River in a purpose built, fully enclosed river jet boat. After a lunch stop at Makarora then travel on to Arrowtown where there is time to explore this historic gold-mining village on the Arrow River...

Day 5: Queenstown at Leisure

Enjoy Queenstown your way! Perhaps view The Lord of the Rings film locations on a scenic tour of Queenstown and Glenorchy. This evening, why not sit back and enjoy a peaceful cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard New Zealand’s oldest steamship, the TSS Earnslaw, to Walte...

Day 6: Queenstown at Leisure

Make the most of your extended stay in Queenstown. Perhaps join a wine tour and taste some of Central Otago’s world-renowned Pinot Noir or take a jet boat ride down the mighty Shotover River. Or simply relax, shop or enjoy time at one of the many cafés and restaurants...

Day 7: Queenstown - Te Anau - Milford Sound/Piopiotahi

Travel south along Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau, which is nestled on the shores of the South Island’s largest lake. Stop for lunch at a local farm, where you will hear stories of life on the land and meet a cuddly animal or two. Continue through the rainforest of the UNES...

Day 8: Milford Sound - Invercargill

We leave the majestic Fiordland National Park for the fertile sheep-dotted pastures of South Otago through to Gore, the country music capital of New Zealand, for a lunch stop. Journey to Invercargill, a commercial hub full of grand architecture and gardens. A city obs...

Day 9: Invercargill (Stewart and Ulva Islands)

Board a ferry at Bluff and cruise to Stewart Island, known by locals as Rakiura the Maori reference to Glowing Skies. It has been described as rugged, pristine and tranquil – and rightly so as 97% of the island is designated National Park and Conservation Estate. This...

Day 10: Invercargill - Dunedin

Enjoy a relaxed start in Invercargill before departing for Dunedin. Visit Dunedin Craft Distillers, the first distillery in Aotearoa New Zealand and one of only a handful worldwide, to produce botanical spirits from surplus bread and bakery products that would otherwi...

Day 11: Dunedin - Oamaru - Timaru - Christchurch

Travel up the east coast of the South Island via Oamaru and Timaru. On arrival in Christchurch embark on a sightseeing tour of the city to learn about its rebirth after the devastating 2011 earthquake.

Hotel Montreal Christchurch

Full Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 12: Christchurch - Kaikoura - Wellington

Travel up the rugged Pacific Ocean coast this morning to Kaikoura, where sperm whales can often be seen not far from shore. Pass the pink tinged crystallisation ponds of the Lake Grassmere Salt Works, then travel to pretty seaside fishing village of Picton. Later crui...

Day 13: Wellington at Leisure

Today see Wellington your way. Perhaps visit the urban eco-sanctuary of Zealandia/Te Māra a Tāne, or Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. Your Journey Director can assist in booking your optional experience.

QT Wellington

Full Breakfast

Day 14: Wellington - Hawke's Bay

Continue north today, travelling through the dairy farming land of Manawatu to Napier in Hawkes Bay.  Tonight, enjoy dinner with wine at Craggy Range Winery, one of the regions world famous wineries situated in the shadow of the spectacular Te Mata Peak.

Porters Boutique Hotel

Full Breakfast, Local Dining Experience

Day 15: Napier (Relaxed Start)

Enjoy a relaxed start before we venture out to explore the Hawke's Bay region. Relive the glamour and style of the jazz era with a luxurious vintage car tour. Your driver will provide a fascinating commentary as you are driven in style, through Art Deco Napier and sur...

Day 16: Hawke's Bay - Rotorua

Enjoy a leisurely start before continuing the journey to Rotorua. This afternoon you will have a guided cultural Eco-tour of Whirinaki Forest, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Armed with a packed lunch and with your local expert guide discover this vast, Jurassic, po...

Day 17: Rotorua

Ascend the breathtaking Redwoods Treewalk for an elevated bird’s eye view of the 120-year old redwood giants. At the National Kiwi Hatchery Aotearoa, passionate conservationists reveal how they are saving the kiwi population, one incubated egg at a time. Tonight, visi...

Day 18: Rotorua - Auckland

Begin your day with a dazzling show during an exclusive five-star Eco Glowworm experience at Caveworld Waitomo. Your guide sets the scene for a cave experience where you will see glow worms, cave formations and appreciate the beauty of Footwhistle Cave. Later, travel ...

Day 19: Farewell from Auckland

Your epic New Zealand journey comes to an end today and you are transferred by private car to Auckland Airport for your onward flight.

Full Breakfast

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Dates & Availability

Price From $11,187
Price per day$589
Last Updated: 11/8/2024
Departure Date
Finish Date
Double Room (Shared)
Single Room
Availability
03 Feb 2025
21 Feb 2025
$12,535
$16,010
03 Mar 2025
21 Mar 2025
$12,535
$16,010
13 Oct 2025
31 Oct 2025
$11,187
$14,468
27 Oct 2025
14 Nov 2025
$12,430
$16,075
03 Nov 2025
21 Nov 2025
$11,187
$14,468
24 Nov 2025
12 Dec 2025
$12,430
$16,075
22 Dec 2025
09 Jan 2026
$11,187
$14,468
05 Jan 2026
23 Jan 2026
$12,430
$16,075
26 Jan 2026
13 Feb 2026
$11,187
$14,468
09 Feb 2026
27 Feb 2026
$11,187
$14,468

Check current availability, prices, specials & more.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

AAT Kings Reviews & Ratings

4.6/5  Excellent
Excellent
1,294
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346
Average
69
Disappointing
23
Terrible
15
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Other AAT Kings Reviews

M

Melissa Bowden

Nov 2024

Written on

Tastes of Southern Australia

The tour itself was amazing but I feel I was ripped off big time. I missed my initial flight, it was Fri eve so travel agents closed. I purchased another ticket to K...

M

Melissa Bowden

Nov 2024

Written on

Visiting a local farm.

Anna the guide was absolutely brilliant and so was Rhys the driver. Can't recommend them enough.

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Tour Operator

AAT Kings

premier
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A century ago, the Australian outback was but a twinkle in most travelers’ eyes. But thanks to visionaries like the Pyke family and Bill King, the way we explore the Land Down Under was about to change in unimaginable ways. Over the coming decades, maps were unfolded, desert cruisers and coaches were customized, and guides were trained. From humble beginnings, the company now known as AAT Kings was going places few had gone before, pioneering new paths across Australia and New Zealand and taking intrepid travelers on a wild and wonderful ride. We’ve come a long way and clocked a few kilometers in the process. But some things will never change. Like our spirit for adventure. Our oh-so-knowledgeable Travel Directors. The local characters we meet (and will never forget) along the way. The epic, goosebump-inducing stories we’re told by First Nations guides. The life-changing experiences on offer – the kind that only 100 years of exploring affords. We’ve never been more passionate about our next discovery. Join us and fall in love with Australia and New Zealand all over again. #aatkings


Why we love this operator
AAT Kings is renowned for its quality service, knowledgeable guides, and extensive network of destinations.
What they’re known for
AAT Kings is known for being one of Australia and New Zealand's leading tour operators, specializing in guided tours.

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Logistics

Accommodation

  • Hotel Montreal Christchurch
  • Te Waonui Forest Retreat
  • The Rees
  • Milford Mariner
  • The Langlands Hotel
  • Distinction Dunedin Hotel
  • QT Wellington
  • Porters Boutique Hotel
  • Pullman Rotorua
  • QT Auckland
Cancellation policy

Cancellation by the Traveller
Travel arrangements for any member of the party may be cancelled at any time by written notice by the person who made the booking.

If notice of cancellation is received by the Provider before final payment is due (see The Table), the deposit will be retained. If cancellation is made after final payment is due cancellation fees will apply (see The Table). These cancellation fees represent the costs incurred less any expected recoveries. Please also refer to Air cancellation Section where applicable.Notice of cancellation must be made in writing directly to the Provider or through your Travel Agent. Please also refer to the Provider's Gold Seal Additional Protection.

If a person in a party cancels and there is a room change caused by this cancellation (such as a twin share to Single, or Triple to twin share), charges for the new room type will be the responsibility of the remaining party. The charges detailed in the Summary Terms table (which includes GST), representing costs incurred by the Provider in cancelling your travel arrangements, will apply when notice of cancellation for your trip is given after the booking is confirmed. Please also refer to the Provider's Gold Seal Additional Protection.

If a guest fails to join the trip on the day of departure, cancellation fees will be 100% (unless the guest notifies us of the delay and joins the trip later at their own expense).

Cancellation fees as per The Table apply to additional accommodation and/or chargeable transfers prior to and after the trip, itinerary extensions or cruise reserved through the Provider.

Cancellation fees and charges will include any amounts that we have paid or have contractually committed to pay to third parties to deliver your travel arrangements which we cannot reasonably recover (for example payments made or due to airlines and hotels). Any payments we have made to third parties will only be refunded to you once we have deducted the above cancellation fees and charges and once we have actually recovered the amounts from the third parties.

All cancellation fees as per The Table are additional to any cancellation fees or other charges that may be levied by your Travel Agent.

Gold Seal Protection premiums are non-refundable.

If the reason for your cancellation is covered under your insurance, you may be able to reclaim these charges from your insurer. You are responsible for making the claim to your insurer. We will provide you with documentation to support your claim.

Cancellation by the Provider
The Provider reserves the right, to modify or cancel any trip, accommodation, in-destination activity or arrangement, definite or not, at any time.

Cancellation due to Failure to Pay

If full payment is not received by the due date (see The Table), The Provider has the right to cancel your reservation and no refund will be made. The Provider will not be responsible for lost reservations.

Cancellation due to Force Majeure Events

If The Provider cancels a trip as a result of a Force Majeure Event, a future travel credit (FTC) to the value of funds paid to date, less any unrecoverable third-party costs incurred, will be provided. All FTCs will be valid for 24 months from date of issue.

Where a trip is terminated mid-trip due to a Force Majeure event, if we provide you with any alternative services or assistance (such as hotels or travel) then you agree to pay for these costs.

Cancellation due to Events other than Force Majeure Events

If the cancellation by the Provider is not as a result of a Force Majeure Event, the Provider will provide an alternative comparable trip (if available). If an alternative is not available, then a refund will be made. The Provider is not liable for any cancellation or change cost or penalties incurred on other travel arrangements, including air travel, that may be affected thereby.

The Provider is not responsible for other travel arrangements that you or your party have made outside the Provider and which are affected by our cancellations.

For more additional details, see the booking conditions of TruTravels at the following web address: https://www.aatkings.com/about-us/booking-conditions-published-5-august-2024/

Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin and your country of destination. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the relevant requirements. For a handy tool that can help you quickly find the requirements, please visit this link .
Meals Included
  • 1 Welcome Reception (WR)
  • 18 Full Breakfast (B)
  • 8 Dinner with Wine (DW)
  • 3 Lunch (L)
  • 3 Local Dining Experience (LD)
  • 1 Celebration Dinner (CD)
Age Requirements
6 years and up
Additional Information
Trip ID
aatkin-NZIJ24

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