Ultimate Explorer
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| Length | 27 days |
|---|---|
| Grade |
A-B (General good health necessary.)
Grade A
Grade B
|
| Start | Auckland, 172 Quay Street at 10:00am |
| Finish | Auckland 6:00pm |
| Departs |
Depart Auckland and head north first Feb 2012: 1, 10, 19, 28 Mar 2012: 8, 17, 26 (ends Picton*) Apr 2012: 4 (ends Picton*), 13 (ends Picton*) Depart Auckland and head south first Feb 2012: 4, 13, 22 Mar 2012: 2, 11, 20 Depart Christchurch Feb 2012: 1, 10, 19, 28 Mar 2012: 8, 17, 26 (ends Picton*) |
| Prices | Period 1 May 11 - 30 Apr 12 |
NZ$3,740 | |
| Extra Costs | Optional activities, private cycle handling, some meals. |
*Trips ending in Picton are at a reduced price, contact office for details. These trips can end in Nelson by prior arrangement.
Maximum 28
Back to topItinerary
New Zealand is a paradise for outdoor adventure enthusiasts. This tour provides an action-packed adventure vacation along with great flexibility. If you want to spend longer in a location then you can do so by catching a later bus passing through (by prior arrangement). With bicycles, camping gear and much more on board this tour is ideal for outdoor focussed travellers and groups of all fitness levels.
You will visit many out of the way special places that are off the beaten tourist path as well as visiting New Zealand's famous tourism icons. Your guides will provide you with many insights into New Zealand's nature, geography and history and they are there to help you make the most of your camping vacation.
You will camp in great locations and will do so in comfort to maximize your holiday enjoyment. If the weather turns bad, you can usually upgrade to a cabin, lodge or chalet (subject to availability). Cooking is done in groups on a roster basis so you won't spend every night cooking.
Activities marked with a "*" signify they are done at additional cost.
Meals in italics indicate they are provided as part of the tour package.
Day 1.
Auckland to Bay of Islands
Depart Auckland 10am. Leave the city for the golden beaches and warm waters of the Bay of Islands. Visit the historic Treaty House*. Enjoy the mangrove walk to thundering Haruru waterfalls. Cycle scenic route. Star-gazing around camp fire. (Lunch/Dinner)
Day 2.
Bay of Islands
Delicious pancake breakfast. Spend the day in the Bay of Island’s clear turquoise waters, relaxing at the beach or using the free boogie boards. Cycle scenic loop to Russell visiting Kauri Grove on the way. Options include Cape Reinga, sail the Bay of Islands*, dolphin swimming*, Waka paddle and village tour* or dive the Rainbow Warrior*. In the evening enjoy an optional Maori Concert and Haka*! A second night at same camp. (Breakfast/Dinner)
Day 3.
Sand dunes - Waipoua Forest - hot pools
A day full of adventure. Great cycle routes and walk options, then on to the dunes of Opononi for beach fun and optional sand boarding. Cycle or bus to Waipoua Forest to explore the giant Kauri trees. Travel Hibiscus Coast and camp near Waiwera hot pools* for a relaxing dip. (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Day 4.
Coromandel - Hot water beach
Return to the “City of Sails”. Depart Auckland at 10am. The beautiful Coromandel Peninsula awaits us so bring your swimming gear. A relaxing afternoon at Cathedral Cove beach, if the tide is right, dig pools and bathe in the thermal springs of Hot Water Beach. Optional sea kayak* around dramatic coastlines. Scenic rides on wonderful coastline. Camp near the beach tonight. (Breakfast/Dinner)
Day 5.
Rotorua
Drive or cycle to stunning Whiritoa beach for a swim or forest walk amongst the massive Pohutukawa trees. You continue to Rotorua and its thermal wonders. Optional activities like the head spinning Zorb*, Agroventures*, or Luge* or the relaxed Polynesian Pools*. Cycle ride from camp around Lake Rerewhakaaitu nestled below the dormant but dramatic Mount Tarawera. (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Day 6.
Volcanic Plateau - Taupo
A relaxed start at our lake side camp. We visit Wai-O-Tapu thermal resort*, mud pools. Drive on to the impressive Huka Falls. Walk or cycle to the great lakeside setting of Taupo. Optional skydiving*, bungy*. Mts Ngauruhoe, Tongariro and Ruapehu dominate the skyline as we hug the shores of one of the largest crater lakes in the world. Wonderful camp in Turangi.(Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Day 7.
Tongariro - Kapiti Coast
Chance to try one of the World’s greatest one day walks - the “Tongariro Alpine Crossing”*. Alternatively, relax or cycle in this beautiful area with an inspiring mountain backdrop. After some serious exploring you head to your accommodation for recharging and refuelling. (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Day 8.
Wellington - Picton
For those who are heading south you hit the water for a scenic ferry crossing (cost included)or if you are heading north rejoin us at noon (day 26). You arrive in Wellington by 10am. The capital offers cafés, good bars, the celebrated Te Papa Museum & the botanical gardens. The capital is a great place for shopping. Accommodation is not provided in Picton but will help you make a booking. (Breakfast)
Day 9.
Kaikoura - Whale Watch
Depart Picton 12.30pm. Travel the Pacific coast to Kaikoura, cycle stunning coastal route where close encounters with fur seals and a myriad of sea birds are common. Optional whale watch* or sea kayak* and coastal walk. Stay at a beach camp with an amazing sunrise opportunity. (Dinner)
Day 10.
Dolphin/seal swim - Christchurch
Optional dolphin swim* or seal swim* or a chance to cycle by the nature-rich coast. Head through Canterbury region and for those joining depart Christchurch 3pm. Head across Canterbury plains to Rangitata Gorge with a great ride and accommodation at the foot of the Alps. (Breakfast/Dinner)
Day 11.
Rangitata Rafting - Lake Pukaki
Optional white water rafting* on the Rangitata river. Morning cycle or walks in Peel Forest. Travel through Geraldine and Mackenzie Basin with views of the Main Divide. Cycle to Lake Tekapo and view the historic church. Lake Pukaki (great spot for swimming) camp with views of Mt.Cook. (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Day 12.
Aoraki/Mount Cook - Waitaki River
Morning cycle towards Mt Cook. Hikes around the Mt Cook basin before making our way to the east coast. A short stop in Oamaru before heading to our coastal camp. Chance for a scenic quiet cycle ride, walks or beach games . Optional penguin tour*.(Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Day 13.
Otago Peninsula - Catlins
Morning coastal walk or cycle. Visit bizarre Moeraki Boulders. Explore historic and picturesque Dunedin - home to the world’s steepest street! Sample the delights of the Cadbury (Chocolate) factory* or Speights Brewery* depending on your tastes. You travel to the spectacular natural beauty of the Catlins area for the night. Cycle from camp to Nugget Point lighthouse along a quiet country road. (Breakfast/Dinner)
Day 14.
Te Anau
Journey through scenic southern pastures, stopping for lunch on the shores of Lake Manapouri. Visit the lake town of Te Anau before heading for Fiordland National Park and our historic camp in the unspoilt Hollyford Valley where cycle rides and walks abound. (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Day 15.
Milford Sound
One of the world’s most scenic routes into Milford Sound! Cycle the magnificent descent from Homer Tunnel (3000ft)! Optional boat cruise* to enjoy the fiord up close. The Routeburn*, Greenstone Track* walkers depart for their awesome trek. Stunning lakeside camp. (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Day 16.
Te Anau
Explore Te Anau and plenty of time to walk, fish or cycle in the area. Day or overnight walk on the Kepler Track* with panoramic views from Mt Luxmore. Also the chance to try some jet boating* or visit the enchanting glowworm caves*. Same amazing lakeside camp in Te Anau. (Breakfast/Dinner)
Day 17.
Queenstown
Journey to Queenstown along the shores of Lake Wakatipu. You stay a short stroll from town, in a camp overlooking the beautiful lake. Queenstown is the adventure capital and there are bars, activities and thrills galore! Track walkers re-join group. A big night out for those who are keen. (Breakfast)
Day 18.
Queenstown
Queenstown with its multitude of adrenalin activities. Bungy*, fly-by-wire*, jet boat*, rafting*, horse trekking*, parapenting*, skydive*, gondola ride* - this place has it all, as well as spectacular views. Cycle and walk in alpine areas. Depart Queenstown at 3pm. Camp beside a tranquil lake with hikes, cycle and swimming all available and a chance to wind down and compare notes and photos from your Queenstown thrills! (Breakfast/Dinner)
Day 19.
Haast Pass - West Coast
A relaxed morning at the camp. Optional jet boating* then over the dramatic Haast Pass. Chance for a cycle with views of the Alps through rainforest, past waterfalls and pools to the wild West Coast. Head to our camp at Fox Glacier and explore this unique town. (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Day 20.
Fox Glacier - Okarito
Spend the morning taking in the wonderful scenery before an optional guided walk* or heli hike* on the spectacular glaciers. Cycle to Okarito beach camp. This gorgeous spot is home to a number of spectacular walks and breathtaking views of the Southern Alps. (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Day 21.
Hokitika - Punakaiki
Morning at Okarito. Great cycle route along the coast. Visit Bushmans Museum*, check out famous Greenstone factories of Hokitika. Stunning coastal walk and cycle. Excellent beach camp at Punakaiki, home of the famous Pancake Rocks and Paparoa National Park. Keep your eyes peeled for kiwi birds!! Many great walks and rides to choose from. (Breakfast/Dinner)
Day 22.
Pororari River - Glow worm caves
Travel through the Buller Gorge for some cycling and beautiful scenery to one of NZ’s most stunning spots - the Abel Tasman region. Cycle backroad route. Optional skydive* or fly an aerobatic plane*. We stay 2 nights at Marahau, with the Abel Tasman National Park on our doorstep. (Breakfast/Dinner)
Day 23.
Abel Tasman
Free day for exploring the area. Walk, cycle, optional awesome sailing the scenic coast or choose from an overnight kayak trip, boat and walk the golden beaches. Swim in crystal clear waters. Night out at a cool cafe. (Breakfast/Lunch)
Day 24.
Abel Tasman
Travel to Nelson, morning coastal cycle option. Lunch at the village of Mapua. Optional skywire*, horse trekking* or quad biking*. Cycle to Waimarama Bird Sanctuary* or take time to enjoy Nelson’s cafes and arts culture. Traditional Marae stay and hangi (subject to availability) (Breakfast/Dinner)
Day 25.
Nelson - Picton - Wellington
Chance to see the worlds largest private collection of Maori carvings. Travel through the Marlborough wine region. Picton by 6pm. If going north, on the scenic ferry to Wellington (cost included), we don’t provide accommodation but will help you make a booking. (Breakfast)
Day 26.
Wellington
Time in morning to explore then we depart Wellington at noon and on to Taranaki. Camp in the stunning Taranaki. No meals.
Day 27.
Waitomo caves
Leave early and head to Waitomo Caves* - a limestone wonderland created by erosion over millions of years. Optional blackwater rafting* or some excellent walks. Arrive in buzzing Auckland by 6pm for a taste of big city life “kiwi style”. (Breakfast/Lunch)
Grading & Fitness
Grade: A-B
Average of 4-5 hrs physical activity per day if you choose.
At times carrying small backpack of 4-5kgs.
Tracks generally in good condition.
Altitude gains of up to 600m on hiking days.
No hiking experience necessary.
Good health required.
There are no special fitness requirements to go on this camping tour, because you choose entirely how active you want to be and what pace you want to set. All cycling is optional and the pick up and drop off system enables you to cycle the distance that you choose. Simply ride in the comfortable buses when you want to take it easy.
Guides & Safety
A key figure in the tour is your guide. Only guides with natural people skills combined with a respect for the environment and our culture are choosen. An enthusiastic and professional approach ensures your adventure is safe, well-organised and the experience of a lifetime.
Back to topWhat to take
Essential Items
Bring a small pillow if you require one.
Luggage:
Lockers are provided in the bus to store your luggage.
Back to topTransport
The comfortable buses carry all the equipment needed to make a home away from home. There's also a fully equipped, customised trailer. Features include:
Bicycles are available for hire. Late model 24 speed aluminium framed mountain bikes are provided. A mixture of Avanti Montari's, Gary Fisher Tassajara's and Specialised Hard Rock bikes. You will be supplied with a helmet (compulsory in New Zealand) and detailed cycle maps. You are welcome to bring your own bike (a handling fee will be charged). Cycling is not compulsory. Back to top
Food
Your driver/guide takes care of all the food shopping saving you time. Cooking is done on a group basis with a roster system so you do not need to cook every night. Healthy and delicious daily recipes are provided in an easy to follow cookbook. Tea, coffee and plenty of fruit is provided for when you need refreshments or a snack.
Note: meals are only provided as shown in the itinerary. You will be able to buy your meals or prepare your own food in the camp kitchen when meals aren't provided. If you are vegetarian or have any special dietary requirements then please let us know on making your booking.
Accommodation
Tents are three-person dome tents that are easy to erect. They are available for hire as a single or you can share with one other person to save money. Alternatively bring your own tent. If the weather turns bad, you can usually upgrade to a cabin, lodge or chalet (subject to availability).
There is one night in Picton and one night in Wellington at your own cost. Your Driver/Guide can assist with accommodation requirements while you are travelling.
Optional Activities
Routeburn Track - This is an optional two night hike in the Milford Sound area. This track is highly recommended, however, due to Department of Conservation booking conditions confirmation and payment is required prior to your travel. If you require more information about this please ask.
Swim with the Dolphins Kaikoura - there are a limited number of pre-booked spaces - if you want a guaranteed space confirmation and payment are required prior to your travel. If you require more information about this optional activity please ask.
Mitre Peak Cruises - Milford Sound - During this boat cruise through deep icy waters, you will see sheer rock faces, native forest and local wildlife including penguins, seals and dolphins if you are lucky. This is an activity which usually every one participates in and to make things easier you can pay this prior to your trip start. Just let us know and we will charge it to your credit card. Back to top
Additional Costs
The following items are paid for at the beginning the tour. Please indicate when making your booking whether you will be wanting any of these items.
Not included in price:
Booking Conditions
In respect of the flexible style of this product no guarantee can be made that any activity or amenity, especially those marked as optional, will be available. Failure to participate in, or disputes over any such activity or amenity can in no way be held the responsibility of the operator or its agents. The operator reserves the right to make changes to the itinerary, without notice if necessary. Any loss or damage to the operator's equipment through your neglect must be covered by you. If for any reason it is necessary for the operator to cancel your booking the operator reserves the right to do so. You will in such a case receive full monies back or be able to change to another departure. Additional expenses, if incurred through any of the above, will be borne by you.
Price includes:
Payment:
For bookings 4 or more months in advance of the departure a 25% deposit can be paid with the remainder due 65 days prior to your trip. For bookings within 4 months of the departure, full payment is required.
Cancellations:
Deposits are not refunded
You can transfer to another trip at any time if a place is available. A transfer fee of $25 applies. After such a transfer any cancellation will result in forfeiture of full payments made.
Travel Insurance:
We recommend you take out travel insurance covering medical expenses, personal accident, cancellation and personal property.
Notes:
This trip is run in conjunction with another operator.
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