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Stay · Grand Pacific Tours · 10 nights

Tour New Zealand + Experience the Warbirds Over Wanaka Airshow

  • 3 Day Gold Pass
  • Fully-escorted tour
  • Highlights include historical re-enactments
From
$6,589 pp twin share
$8,339 pp solo share
10 nights
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This holiday is no longer available — but we can help you find something else.

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Departs 23 March 2024 Returns 6 April 2024
Duration10 nights
OperatorGrand Pacific Tours
StyleStay
HighlightReturn flights + extensive NZ touring + event tickets + free tour jacket
Join like-minded over-60s for a New Zealand tour with a special twist! Enjoy a fully-escorted tour from Wellington to Christchurch, stopping along the way for three days of Gold Pass access to…

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 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.

When & how much

Departures & Pricing

Departs
23 March 2024
Returns 6 April 2024
Returns
6 April 2024
Duration
10 nights
From pp twin share
$6,589 pp
From pp solo cabin
$8,339 pp

Departing Christchurch 31 March 2025 and returning Wellington 10 April 2025

Departures from Brisbane & Sydney:

  • Twin Share - from $6,349 pp + $260 pp air taxes = $6,609pp
  • Sole use - from $8,099 + $260 pp air taxes = $8,359pp

Departures from Melbourne:

  • Twin Share - from $6,349 pp + $240 pp air taxes = $6,589pp
  • Sole use - from $8,099 + $240 pp air taxes = $8,339pp

Departures from Adelaide:

  • Twin Share - from $6,649 pp + $255 pp air taxes = $6,904pp
  • Sole use - from $8,399 + $255 pp air taxes = $8,654pp

Departures from Perth:

  • Twin Share - from $6,899 pp + $225 pp air taxes = $7,124pp
  • Sole use - from $8,649 + $225 pp air taxes = $8,874pp

Departures from Canberra:

  • Twin Share - from $6,549 pp + $350 pp air taxes = $6,899pp
  • Sole use - from $8,299 + $350 pp air taxes = $8,649pp

Departures from Hobart:

  • Twin Share - from $6,649 pp + $240 pp air taxes = $6,889pp
  • Sole use - from $8,399 + $240 pp air taxes = $8,639pp

Call our local travel team on 1300 414 198 to secure your seat on this popular tour, which will sell out!

Please note flights are out of date range. Once flights are within range the best options and any relevant conditions will be provided. Air taxes are subject to change and will be confirmed on the receipt of your final invoice.

Upgrades, transfers, accommodation and more can be quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Day by day

Itinerary

  1. 2

    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. 

    Hotel Scenic Hotel Marlborough Included Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
  2. 3

    Blenheim - Kaikōura - Christchurch

    This morning visit the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, home to one of the largest private collections of WW1 Aircraft, brought to life in sets created by the internationally acclaimed WingNut Films and Weta Workshop. 

    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. 

    Hotel Distinction Christchurch Hotel Included Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
  3. 4

    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 the township of Franz Josef, where time is available to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the spectacular glaciers. 

    Hotel Te Waonui Forest Retreat Included Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
  4. 5

    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 Lake Wakatipu. This evening is free to dine out at one of the many fine restaurants. 

    Hotel Millennium Hotel Queenstown (4 nights) Included Meals: Breakfast
  5. 6

    Queenstown – Wanaka - Queenstown

    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 Airshow. No flying will occur today, however there may be some practice happening overhead. On the ground check out the static displays which include classic cars and Warhorses (military vehicles), sport aircraft and aviation trade stands. This is also the opportunity to taste wine and food from the Central Otago region. 

    Included Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
  6. 7

    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 Airshow 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
  7. 8

    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
  8. 9

    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 depicting 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). 

    Hotel Distinction Luxmore Hotel Lake Te Anau (Deluxe Rooms, 2 nights) Included Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
  9. 10

    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 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
  10. 11

    Te Anau - Invercargill

    Today travel to Mandeville Airfield to visit the Croydon Aviation Heritage Centre where the aircraft, mostly from the 1920s and 1930s includes 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. 

    Hotel Ascot Park Hotel Included Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
  11. 12

    Invercargill - Dunedin

    A trip to Invercargill would not be complete without a visit to view 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. 

    Hotel Scenic Hotel Southern Cross (2 nights) Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  12. 13

    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. This evening visit Speight’s Brewery, a Dunedin icon, for dinner at the Ale House Restaurant. 

    Included Meals: Breakfast & Specialty Dinner
  13. 14

    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 newfound friends and reminisce on memories shared. 

    Hotel Sudima Christchurch Airport Included Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
  14. 15

    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
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
  • Return airport transfers in New Zealand
  • 14 nights in 4-star hotel accommodation
  • 2 day cruises
  • 1 rail journey
  • 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 lunches: Milford Sound Cruise; picnic lunch, The Catlins
  • 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
  • Airshow Programme
  • Opportunity to walk the flight line
  • Complimentary drink voucher
  • Complimentary tea, coffee and water throughout the Airshow

PREPAID ATTRACTIONS:

  • Visit Te Papa, New Zealand's National Museum
  • Cruise on the Interislander Ferry
  • Visit the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre*
  • TranzAlpine Rail Journey
  • Visit the 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 and Devonshire Tea*
  • Visit the Air Force Museum of New Zealand*
  • City sights tour of Christchurch and Dunedin

*Guided tour is included with 1 guide per 24 travellers

Not included

  • Travel Insurance
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 Hotel
  • Te Waonui Forest Retreat, Franz Josef
  • Millennium Hotel Queenstown
  • Distinction Luxmore Hotel Lake Te Anau
  • The Ascot Park Hotel, Invercargill
  • Scenic Hotel Southern Cross, Dunedin
  • Sudima Christchurch Airport Hotel
From the operator

Common questions about this voyage

Not wanting to attend the airshow - If you do not wish to attend the 3 Day warbirds Over Wanaka Airshow please advise at time of booking and we can deduct that from your tour price. There are several sightseeing options available in Queenstown (own expense). Comprehensive Travel Insurance is not included but is strongly recommended for all travellers. It is the traveller’s responsibility to arrange their own travel insurance.PASSPORT AND VISA REQUIREMENTS:All visitors require a passport to enter New Zealand. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond 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 contact NZ Immigration for full entry requirements. If you are not an Australian Citizen or permanent resident, you may also have to pay for an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL).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. 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.
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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Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.

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The fine print

Terms & conditions

Read the operator’s full booking conditions

Travel at 60 and supplier booking conditions apply.

  • Prices are subject to availability at time of booking and may change without notice.
  • Minimum numbers are required for this group to operate.
  • Properties used in the tour is subject to change without notice.

Flights - Please note flights are out of date range. Once flights are within range the best options and any relevant conditions will be provided. Air taxes are subject to change and will be confirmed on the receipt of your final invoice. Flight Schedules and Airlines are subject to change, additional deposit for airfares are required once confirmed.

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 09 January 2024. Due to the different airfares, this amount will vary between cities and your consultant will advise the amount required once the flights are confirmed.

Vaccination: Based on the removal of the New Zealand government mandates, travellers arriving into New Zealand, and travelling on a GPT tour, are no longer required to be fully vaccinated.

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) $6,589 pp
From (solo) $8,339 pp
Enquire