East Cape Tour 2010 & 2011
Tour Dates
- Eight Days - 4th Sept to 11th September, 2010
- Eight Days - January 29 to February 4, 2011
Main centers visited
Auckland, Tauranga, Rotorua, East Cape, Gisborne, Napier, Wellington, Christchurch
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
After a home pickup we join the coach and head to Auckland airport to meet some southern locals from Christchurch arriving at 0930 at Auckland Airport. After two hours of Auckland sightseeing we travel to Rotorua via Tauranga and Mt Maunganui. Accommodation: Two nights at Sudima Hotel Rotorua.
Day 2
Alex will be taking us sightseeing around Rotorua including visiting Paradise Valley and Te Puia Reserve. Our hotel is located directly over the road from the Polynesian Pools if you feel like a swim.
Day 3
Today we travel towards New Zealand’s most eastern point travelling via Opotiki crossing the famous Motu River with an over night stop at Hicks Bay. Along the way, Alex will share his local knowledge and history. Late in the day you have the option of taking a local bus to the East Cape where you can walk to the East Cape Light House. Accommodation: Hicks Bay Lodge
Day 4
The road from Hicks Bay to Gisborne passes many picturesque bays. We travel through Ruatoria . At Tikitiki on the banks of the Waiapu River we will visit St Mary’s Church one of the most ornate Maori Churches carved as a memorial to World War one soldiers. We will have some time to check out Gisborne the first city in the world to see the sun, also Captain Cook’s first landing place in New Zealand. Accommodation: Gisborne Hotel.
Day 5
It’s a wonderful drive from Gisborne passing the beautiful Mahia Peninsula and the little town of Wairoa. We travel under the Mohoka Viaduct which is 350 feet above the river bed and 1000ft long. We continue our journey south to Napier for some local sightseeing. Accommodation: Tennyson Hotel, Napier
Day 6
Travelling south we go via Havelock North to Woodville where we turn south via Masterton and over the Rimutaka Range to our capital city, Wellington. Alex will take us around the local sights including Mt Victoria and the Cable Car. Accommodation Bay Plaza Hotel, Wellington
Day 7
Today we farewell the North Island and join the Kaitaki Ferry at 8.25am for the voyage across the strait. After lunch in Blenheim, we travel down to Christchurch via Kaikoura. Accommodation Elms Hotel, Chc
Day 8
This morning you will be transferred out to the airport for your flight to Auckland. We will meet you at the Auckland airport and deliver you back to your home – Flight times TBC
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