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Stay · Grand Pacific Tours · 14 nights

Fly to New Zealand + See Warbirds Over Wanaka + Tour New Zealand with the Travel at 60 community! (April 2022)

From
$6,069 pp twin share
14 nights
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Duration14 nights
OperatorGrand Pacific Tours
StyleStay
HighlightReturn flights + extensive touring + event tickets + free tour jacket
Enjoy a fully-escorted tour from Wellington to Christchurch - including a three-day Gold Pass to the Warbirds Over Wanaka International Air Show!

Explore New Zealand from Wellington to Christchurch on this fully escorted tour, which gives you the opportunity to visit some of New Zealand’s iconic attractions - Milford Sound, Franz Josef Glacier and Marlborough Country, famous for its food and wine.

A 3-day Gold Pass to the Warbirds Over Wanaka Air Show is included in this community tour. This high octane event is one of the world's most unique air shows and you'll be amazed by the pilots' amazing manoeuvres of these historic and iconic planes. Talk to the pilots and get up close to view the planes or wander through the aviation trade stands and market stands.

Another highlight of the show is a display of Wanaka Warhorses - military vehicles which form an interactive display with the aircraft. Historical re-enactments (with authentic uniforms and weapons) give the restored vehicles a touch of realism and will bring back memories of the past.

A display of classic cars and vintage vehicles will also be featured at the event.

Day by day

Itinerary

  1. 1

    10 APR 2022: ARRIVE WELLINGTON

    On arrival into Wellington, you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening meet your Tour Leader and travelling companions for dinner.

    Stay: James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor (Executive Room)Included Meals: Dinner (not included for anyone arriving later than 8:00pm)
  2. 2

    11 APR 2022: WELLINGTON - PICTON – BLENHEIM

    A highlight this morning will be time to explore Gallipoli: A Scale of War exhibition at Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum. Cutting edge technology brings these stories to life through the eyes of New Zealanders who found themselves in extraordinary circumstances. This afternoon board the Interislander Ferry, cross Cook Strait and travel through the Marlborough Sounds to Picton, where you board your coach for the short journey to Blenheim.

    Stay: Scenic Hotel MarlboroughIncluded Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
  3. 3

    12 APR 2022: BLENHEIM - CHRISTCHURCH

    This morning, a fascinating guided tour of the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre which features an extensive collection of aircraft belonging to Sir Peter Jackson, will transport you from WWI to WWII. Tour through Marlborough Country, famous for its food and wine then travel to the seaside village of Kaikōura. Continue onto the garden city of Christchurch for a city tour on arrival.

    Stay: Distinction ChristchurchIncluded Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
  4. 4

    13 APR 2022: CHRISTCHURCH - ARTHUR’S PASS - FRANZ JOSEF

    This morning board the TranzAlpine, renowned as one of the great train journeys of the world. Travel over massive viaducts, river valleys and spectacular gorges as you ascend to Arthur’s Pass located in the centre of the Southern Alps. Board your coach and travel to Hokitika, famous for its Greenstone before continuing to Franz Josef, where time is available to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the spectacular glaciers.

    Stay: Te Waonui Forest Retreat Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
  5. 5

    14 APR 2022: FRANZ JOSEF - QUEENSTOWN

    See the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel south via the Haast Pass, an area of stunning beauty before arriving into picturesque Queenstown, a year round resort, situated on the shores of magical Lake Wakatipu. This evening is free to dine out at one of the many fine restaurants.

    Stay: Mercure Queenstown (Lakeview Room. 4 nights)Included Meals: Breakfast
  6. 6

    15 APR 2022: QUEENSTOWN - WANAKA

    Today, you have the choice of either a free day in Queenstown or travelling to Wanaka for the opening day of the Warbirds Over Wanaka Air Show. No flying will occur today, however some practice will be happening overhead. On the ground, check out the static displays which include classic cars and Warhorses (military vehicles), sport aircraft and aviation trade stands. Taste wine and food from Central Otago or use your voucher to visit the Warbirds and Wheels Museum, which showcases the story of Sir Tim Wallis, founder of the Warbirds Over Wanaka International Air Show.

    Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
  7. 7

    16 APR 2022: WARBIRDS OVER WANAKA

    Travel to Wanaka over the next two days, where Wanaka Airport will become your home as you are entertained by the world’s best display pilots flying aircraft overhead. Your ticket will gain you access to the Gold Pass Enclosure. Enjoy the ultimate in Air Show luxury as you will be situated on the flight line with grandstand seating and a plush marquee, where you can relax in comfort and watch the show from the best seats in the house.

    Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
  8. 8

    17 APR 2022: WARBIRDS OVER WANAKA

    On the final day, all eyes will be in the air as you watch some of the world’s most iconic Warbird aircraft plus modern military machines, aerobatics, sport aircraft and so much more. The aerial action is backed by world-class pyrotechnics when the Airfield is defended by the fighters from an attack by enemy aircraft. The show culminates in a massed Fighter flypast, a sight not to be missed!

    Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
  9. 9

    18 APR 2022: QUEENSTOWN - TE ANAU

    This morning travel to Arrowtown, best known for its spectacular autumn colours. Visit the Lakes District Museum a treasure trove of stories and exhibits about the exciting mining era of the late 1800s. Continue to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland. Today you may like to visit the Te Anau Glow Worm Caves (optional).

    Stay: Distinction Luxmore Hotel (Deluxe Rooms.2 nights)Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
  10. 10

    19 APR 2022: TE ANAU - MILFORD SOUND - TE ANAU

    Depart Te Anau for a fascinating drive to Milford Sound where you board your launch for a cruise on this magnificent fiord. See the spectacular Bowen Falls and towering Mitre Peak as you enjoy a picnic lunch onboard. This afternoon return to Te Anau where some free time is available. You might like to cap off your Fiordland experience by watching the breathtaking film, Ata Whenua - Shadowland, which screens at the Fiordland Cinema (optional).

    Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  11. 11

    20 APR 2022: TE ANAU - INVERCARGILL

    Today travel to Mandeville Airfield to visit the Croydon Aviation Heritage Centre where the aircraft is mostly from the 1920s and 1930s including the largest collection of de Havilland aircraft in the southern hemisphere. Travel via Gore to Invercargill, New Zealand’s southernmost city. This afternoon a guided tour is included of the Bill Richardson Transport World, an amazing private collection housed in a purpose-built Art Deco building. Displays include vintage trucks, rare classic cars, petrol pumps as well as an ever-growing showcase of Wearable Arts.

    Stay: The Ascot Park HotelIncluded Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
  12. 12

    21 APR 2022: INVERCARGILL - DUNEDIN

    A trip to Invercargill wouldn’t be complete without a visit to see some of the memorabilia of the legendary Burt Munro, Speed Bike Racer, as depicted in the movie “The World’s Fastest Indian’. Continue through the remarkable region of The Catlins, where lush rainforest spills onto brilliant beaches. Visit the spectacular triple tiered cascading waterfall at Purakauni and enjoy a picnic lunch. Continue to Nugget Point, where there are opportunities to see wildlife as you walk to view the lighthouse with spectacular views.

    Stay: Scenic Hotel Southern Cross (2 nights)Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  13. 13

    22 APR 2022: DUNEDIN SIGHTSEEING

    Travel along the beautiful Otago Harbour viewing many scenic highlights. At Larnach Castle enjoy a guided tour and hear the tragic and scandalous history which is followed by a delicious Devonshire Tea in the Ballroom. Return to the city for an orientation city tour followed by time at leisure. Later visit Speight’s Brewery, a Dunedin icon, for an interactive tour through this working brewery. The tasting session will be followed by a delicious dinner at the Ale House Restaurant.

    Included Meals: Breakfast, Specialty Dinner
  14. 14

    23 APR 2022: DUNEDIN - CHRISTCHURCH

    Depart Dunedin and travel through Oamaru, famous for its Limestone. Arrive into Christchurch and visit the Air Force Museum of New Zealand for a ‘behind the scenes’ tour which showcases the restoration projects in action and provides a rare opportunity to climb inside a Bristol Freighter aircraft. This evening enjoy dinner with your new found friends.

    Stay: Sudima Christchurch Airport HotelIncluded Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
  15. 15

    24 APR 2022: DEPART CHRISTCHURCH

    Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.

    Included Meals: Breakfast

    Why not extend your stay in New Zealand to see more of the country or to join the Kiwis in celebrating ANZAC Day?

What you get for the price

Inclusions & exclusions

What’s included

EXPERIENCE:

  • Return economy class airfares (from selected cities)
  • Personalised Meet and Greet on arrival in Christchurch
  • Return airport transfers in New Zealand
  • 14 nights in 4-star hotel accommodation
  • Hotel porterage
  • All sightseeing and prepaid attractions as per itinerary
  • Extensive Optional Tours Programme
  • Professional Coach Captain and Tour Leader
  • Classic Documentation Pack
  • BONUS GPT Tour Jacket

MEALS:

  • 14 cooked breakfasts
  • 13 sumptuous dinners* including 1 specialty dinner at Speights Ale House in Dunedin
  • 2 picnic lunches
  • 1 delicious Devonshire Tea at Larnach Castle in Dunedin
  • Enjoy GPT Hotel Wine Time (discounted drinks)

*Dinner on Day 1 not included for anyone arriving later than 8:00pm

AIR SHOW INCLUSIONS:

  • 3 Day Warbirds Over Wanaka Gold Pass
  • Grandstand seating
  • Exclusive marquee access with CCTV
  • Souvenir Gold Cap and Badge
  • Souvenir Air Show Programme
  • Opportunity to walk the flight line
  • Entry into the Warbirds & Wheels Museum
  • Complimentary drink voucher
  • Complimentary tea, coffee and water throughout the Air Show

PREPAID ATTRACTIONS:

  • Visit Te Papa, New Zealand's National Museum
  • Cruise on the Interislander Ferry
  • Visitthe Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre*
  • TranzAlpine Rail Journey
  • Visitthe Lakes District Museum
  • Milford Sound Cruise & Lunch
  • Visit the Croydon Aviation Heritage Centre
  • Visit Bill Richardson Transport World*
  • Visit Burt Munro, World’s Fastest Indian Memorabilia
  • Larnach Castle*
  • Visit Speights Brewery Tour & Tasting*
  • Visit the Air Force Museum of New Zealand*
  • City sights tour of Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin

*Guided tour is included with 1 guide per 24 travellers

Where you’ll stay

Accommodation

Your holiday includes 14 nights in 4-star hotel accommodation:

  • James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor, Wellington
  • Scenic Hotel Marlborough
  • Distinction Christchurch
  • Te Waonui Forest Retreat, Franz Josef
  • Mercure Queenstown
  • Distinction Luxmore Hotel, Te Anau
  • The Ascot Park Hotel, Invercargill
  • Scenic Hotel Southern Cross, Dunedin
  • Sudima Christchurch Airport Hotel, Christchurch
From the operator

Common questions about this voyage

PASSPORT AND VISA REQUIREMENTSAll visitors require a passport to enter New Zealand. Your passport must be valid for at least three months past the date that you intend to leave New Zealand. For Australian citizens travelling on an Australian passport, you do not need a visa or permit to visit New Zealand. Visitors from visa-waiver countries must request an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) prior to travelling to New Zealand. For visitors from non-visa waiver countries, it is recommended you visit customs.govt.nz for full entry requirements. LUGGAGE LIMITS:Due to limited space onboard the coach, please ensure carry-on bags do not exceed 6kg. Each traveller is entitled to travel with ONE suitcase on tour measuring (length + width + depth) no more than 140cm (55”).The maximum suitcase weight allowed is 23kg. CLOTHING:
Whilst on tour, dress is informal and relaxed on most occasions. Smart casual clothes are acceptable at most restaurants. The seasons are more pronounced and the weather is more changeable. In summer, a jacket and sweater should be included in your luggage should the weather turn cooler or you visit higher altitudes. You can expect some rain, so also include a light rainproof jacket or coat. If visiting from May to September, pack warm winter garments and layer your clothing. You may have the option to relax and unwind in thermal hot pools so don’t forget to pack your swimwear.
MONEY MATTERS:
New Zealand’s unit of currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). All major international credit cards are accepted and provided they are encoded with a PIN, may be used to obtain cash from Automatic Teller Machines throughout New Zealand. Check with your bank whether this facility is available to you. It is highly recommended you obtain a small amount of New Zealand currency prior to your arrival in New Zealand. Cash Passports or Travel Money Cards are popular and are a safe and convenient way to allow you to access cash at Automatic Teller Machines throughout New Zealand.
WEATHER:
These are average minimum/maximum temperatures in Celsius only during Spring (Sep to Nov). They could vary by up to 4-6 degrees.
TIPPING:
New Zealanders do not depend on tips for their income, however tipping in appreciation for extra-special service is at the discretion of the individual traveller. Some tours may organise an envelope to be circulated for a group presentation to the Coach Captain and/or Tour Guide but any contribution is based on individual appreciation and is not mandatory.
INCIDENTALS:
We suggest you allow a minimum of NZ $40-$50 per day per person for incidental cash expenses such as lunch, morning and afternoon tea.
ROLE OF YOUR COACH CAPTAIN & TOUR GUIDE:
Your Coach Captain is responsible for driving and maintaining the coach and for providing commentary throughout the tour. Your Tour Guide is responsible for your wellbeing and for co-ordinating all the accommodation and activities. It is important whilst travelling on tour that you follow all Crew instructions.
COACH SEAT ROTATION:
For the enjoyment of all travellers a daily seat rotation operates which all travellers must participate in as a condition of booking. The coach seat plan is displayed on the coach for your reference.
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The fine print

Terms & conditions

Read the operator’s full booking conditions

Travel at 60 and supplier booking conditions apply. Please note minimum numbers are required for this group to operate. Properties used in the tour is subject to change without notice.

Flights - Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, no airfares will be confirmed until New Zealand's borders have opened to Australian travellers. Please note tour pricing is subject to airline availability and as such the package price is subject to change until flights are confirmed. Air Taxes are also subject to change.

Deposit/Final Payment - A non-refundable deposit of $250 pp is due within 3 days of booking, and an additional deposit will be required (TBA) once your flights are confirmed with the balance due no later than Friday 22 January 2022. Due to the different airfares, this amount will vary between cities and your consultant will advise the amount required once the flights are confirmed.

Travel at 60 Social Getaways

Travel further when you're not travelling alone

Our Social Getaways are small-group holidays designed especially for over-60s Australians who want the freedom of a great trip without the work of planning every detail. A Travel at 60 host travels with the group, the operator handles the logistics, and you get to focus on the bit that matters — the people, the places, and the stories you'll bring home.

Open to solo travellers too. Many of our travellers book on their own and find their feet quickly in a friendly group of like-minded Australians. Reduced single-supplement options are available on most departures — ask one of our consultants and we'll talk you through what's offered on this trip.

  • A friendly Travel at 60 host — an Australian face on the ground, looking out for the group from day one.
  • Curated local guides & boutique suppliers — the same operators we'd book for our own families.
  • Real itineraries, not whirlwind tours — comfortable transfers, breathing room, and the “off the beaten track” stops the big bus tours skip.

Want to talk it through? Call 1300 414 198 7 days a week, Queensland time, and one of our consultants will walk you through it.

— The team at Travel at 60

A Travel at 60 host with travellers on a Social Getaway
From (twin) $6,069 pp
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