Tour Dates: February 26th to March 13th, 2024
Auckland (1 night), Coromandel (1), Rotorua (2), Wellington (2), Kaikoura (2), Lake Brunner (1), Fox Glacier (2), Queenstown (2), Mt. Cook (1) and Christchurch (2)
Tour Highlights:
- Tour the exciting and scenic city of Auckland
- Admire miles of spectacular coastline and farming communities on the Coromandel Peninsula
- Visit the Miranda Bird Sanctuary
- Explore Cathedral Cove where the ocean washes through a natural arch onto a white sandy beach
- Learn about the world’s leading Kiwi Hatchery and Rotorua’s geothermal activity
- Cruise across the crystal waters of Lake Manapouri, then visit the waterways of a serene fjord
- Visit the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, home to some of the highest mountains and longest glaciers
- Stroll through a Lavendar Farm, learning about the distillation process of pure lavender and essential oils
- Experience the spectacular, remote wilderness of Doubtful Sound on a guided day trip
- Local vineyard tastings and wine cave tour of the Gibbston Valley Winery
- Learn about New Zealand at the Te Papa National Museum
- And more…
2024 New Zealand Encompassed Tour Dates & Prices
February 26th to March 13th, 2024
*a minimum of 15 passengers is required for a local tour leader to escort the tour from Manitoba*
- 16 nights accommodation based on double occupancy
- Meals: all breakfasts, 1 lunch and 6 dinners
- All admissions and cultural visits listed in the itinerary
- Air-conditioned motorcoach transportation
- Fully escorted by a Canadian Tour Leader and New Zealand guide/driver
All travellers who purchase a holiday arranged by Discovery Tours/McPhail Travel hereafter called “The Company” (a division of MANITOBA LTD 3426760) must agree to be bound by the following which forms the terms of your contract for travel. Payment of your deposit is acknowledgement of these terms and conditions, and that you are in agreement with them.
(1) The Company cannot guarantee that accommodations, food, beverages, ground transportation, airline, ferry, rail, or similar services (herein after referred to as “services”) will be exactly as represented in their promotional literature. Great care is taken in the contracting of all “services”, but we cannot be responsible for the errors or omissions of the supplier(s) of said “services”. In the event that a supplier fails to honour their contract with us, we reserve the right to alter, change or cancel any “services” which you have already purchased. When such a change occurs, the Company will do its utmost to provide comparable “services”, although we cannot be liable for any difference in the quality or enjoyment except to the extent of a lower dollar value of the substituted “service”. If the Company is forced to cancel your holiday, our liability is limited only to a refund of the monies received by us.
(2) TRAVELING OUTSIDE CANADA: When one travels to a foreign country it is for the pleasure of discovering a different culture & lifestyle. By booking this holiday you have opted to sample a foreign culture and things WILL NOT be the same as they are at home!
(3) It is not unusual for minor repair work or guestroom refurbishment to be ongoing at established hotels/resorts and that this will occur without prior notice to the Company thus is beyond our control. If we are pre-warned of potentially disruptive on-site construction, be assured that all efforts will be made to rectify the situation.
(4) All “services” as described within our literature and website are based upon information provided to us in good faith, by our suppliers. Since our
brochure/tentative itineraries are printed several months prior to travel there may be the odd occasion that an amenity/facility/hotel/restaurant/cultural visit is not available during your stay. Such changes may be noted only in our Final Itinerary which is forwarded with the final tour documents, or even thereafter according to local circumstances. Subsequently a substitute will be arranged.
(5) FOOD: Travellers should be aware that meals included in our tours will be of a different style and standard than we are used to at home. We accept
requests at the time the initial reservation but unfortunately we cannot guarantee that special diets will be adhered to as it may not be possible in some locations. Special diet must be discussed at time of booking.
(6) BAGGAGE & PORTERAGE One “large” or “main” piece of luggage per person is allowed on our tours. This is in addition to your “carry-on” or day bag (for camera, water, etc). The large/main bag must not exceed 23 kg (50 lb) and be of a standard size; i.e. reasonable in its dimensions such that you are able to manage it on coaches, trains and/or aircraft, and when porters are not available. This baggage must also conform to the limitations set by the airline with which you are travelling (contact the airline if in doubt). Some tours have stricter baggage restrictions as outlined in your pre-trip information package. Your Tour Leader will collect a fee if an additional piece of luggage is carried or if your bag exceeds the allowed weight. Porters may NOT be available at all hotels, airports, ferry terminals, etc, or at some destinations entirely.
(7) COMPLAINTS whilst on holiday must first be brought to the attention of your Tour Leader. We must be allowed an opportunity to rectify satisfactorily any adverse situations BEFORE your return home. The Company will not be responsible for any complaints or breaches of contract whatsoever if the traveler does not notify us of same IN WRITING within 30 days of the group return date home. We may require 4 weeks to investigate and respond to any written complaints.
(8) TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: Customers must be in possession of valid passports and any visas, permits and certificates required for the whole of their trip and 6 months after the return date, and shall arrange such vaccinations as are normally recommended for the countries through which they intend to travel including those vaccinations recommended by the Company. Information as to climate, clothing, baggage etc. is given in good faith but without responsibility on the part of the Company.
(9) AIRLINE CLAUSE: This brochure/website is issued on the sole responsibility of The Company. It is not issued on behalf of and does not commit the airlines mentioned therein or any airline whose services are used during the course of the trip. Airlines reserve the right to change flight schedules and seat assignments at anytime. It is your responsibility to reconfirm all flight times 12-72 hours prior to departure. You must check in 3 hours prior to departure for all transborder and international flights. You must check in 2 hours prior to departure for all domestic flights. We are not responsible for any flight delays, flight schedule changes, oversold flights or missed connections which may result in out of pocket expenses.
(10) HOTEL RATINGS of 2 to 4 stars are utilized. The ratings are based upon local government ratings and our own company rating. Hotels ARE DIFFERENT than their similarly rated North America counterparts and their quality and amenities change frequently. We reserve the right to change hotels from those featured in our tentative itineraries/brochure - either in terms of a lateral move or an upgrade.
(11) SINGLE TRAVELLERS do pay more than those traveling alone as the cost of the room is not shared by two people. However, this does not mean that you will receive a larger or two-bedded guestroom.
(12) PHYSICAL LIMITATIONS: The Company reserves the right to accept, reject or retain any traveller who, in our opinion, is likely to, or does, infringe on the rights, welfare or enjoyment of others. Discovery Tours are relatively active vacations and while there will be plenty of time to relax, there will also be much to see and do. A number of the included excursions generally require a good deal of walking and navigation of numerous steps. Access to sites visited for guests with physical limitations are sometimes restrictive, and in some cases impossible. To enjoy any of our holidays to the fullest possible extent, you must be in excellent physical condition. Tour participants who require any assistance must be accompanied by a companion who is capable of and totally responsible for providing such assistance. Participation in all aspects of the tour is at the tour member’s own risk.
(13) FINAL TRAVEL DOCUMENTS will normally be sent out 14 days prior to the Group Departure Date.
(14) BROCHURE PRICING: Tour prices are based upon prevailing currency exchange rates and while every effort is made to maintain these prices The Company does reserve the right to implement a surcharge in the event of adverse variations in currency conversions. Similarly, airfares are subject to change If through currency fluctuations or airfare increases, our package price is increased in excess of 10%, you have the right to cancel your holiday without penalty. If the package price is increased less than 10%, the difference must be paid and if you choose to cancel, cancellation penalties as per the chart below will be applied. Full prepayment does not protect against currency surcharges, airfare or tax increases.
(15) ALTERATIONS to EXISTING RESERVATIONS: Once your holiday has been fully confirmed and under deposit, any changes made to the existing reservation will incur a change fee of $30.00 per person.
(16) CANCELLATION OF RESERVATION: Should you choose to cancel your holiday The Company must receive notification in writing. The following penalties apply:
TOUR CANCELLATION PENALTIES ASSESSED PER PERSON:
65 DAYS or more prior to departure: Deposit 64 to 31 days 50% TOUR COST
30 days or less 100% TOUR COST
Note: Airlines have varying cancellation penalties and their rules and penalties will prevail.
NO REFUND FOR UNUSED TOUR SERVICES.
(17) TRAVEL INSURANCE: Medical Insurance is mandatory and if you do not purchase insurance through the Company, proof of correct coverage must be provided to the Company. Options and costs will be discussed prior to booking. Cancellation and trip interruption insurance is strongly recommended. Travel insurance offers peace of mind and financial protection against unforeseen events that might prevent your travel or completion of your trip.
IMPORTANT: While we do our utmost to ensure information on our website and brochure is accurate, typographical errors re pricing, dates.
(18) What happens if I or another guest test positive for COVID while on tour?
Every destination has different protocols in place to deal with COVID cases, therefore every situation is unique. We follow guidelines of the local health authorities where we are travelling and work with partners and staff to take care of our guests.
- If a guest tests positive for COVID during the tour, they will be asked to leave the tour in accordance with local regulations. The tour will continue its planned itinerary.
- Our head office will make accommodation arrangements for the durations of any required quarantine and evaluate any necessary updates to the return travel arrangements.
- Guests are responsible to pay all up-front costs for the expenses they incur during their quarantine stay, including the hotel room, meals and additional cost for airfare (if necessary) and any ancillary charges. - It is therefore important that guests ensure they have all the resources available (i.e. credit card), to provide for themselves financially. Guests that have purchased Travel Insurance, upon returning home, can file a claim and submit their expenses to the insurance company.
Itinerary
February 26th
Auckland – SkyCity Auckland – 1 night
Welcome to New Zealand! Auckland is the largest urban city in New Zealand and has the largest concentration of Polynesian people in the world. As an evolving modern city, Auckland has an ever-changing skyline, pulsating waterfront and new infusion of restaurants and bars.
Arrive and transfer to your hotel.
This evening enjoy dinner at SkyCity Auckland – Orbit Restaurant.
February 27th – Breakfast included
Coromandel – Grand Mercure Puka Park Resort – 1 night
Following an orientation we begin with a morning Auckland City sightseeing tour. We will experience many of the best and most scenic sights including Queens Street, Viaduct Harbour, and the Auckland Harbour Bridge. Explore Parnell Village, where historic buildings have been transformed into a trendy shopping area before arriving at the Auckland Domain. With its classic charm, it is the city’s oldest and one of its largest parks, situated on a 62,000-year-old volcano.
This afternoon, we travel to the Coromandel Peninsula, with a stop at the Miranda Bird Sanctuary. On the West Coast, the Coromandel has miles of spectacular coastline with never ending beaches, coves and harbours. Formerly a gold-mining and timber town, Coromandel township is now a haven for artists, craftspeople and conservationists.
Settle into the seaside resort community of Pauanui located on a shallow, tranquil harbour.
February 28th – Breakfast included
After breakfast, we travel to Cathedral Cove, where the Pacific Ocean washes through a natural arch onto a white sandy beach backed by white cliffs. There will be a half hour self-guided downhill walk to the beach.
We continue our journey to the famous Hot Water Beach. This is one of the only places where naturally heated mineral water bubbles up from deep within the earth to emerge through golden sand.
Following lunch, we continue the tour south through the mountain range to an active gold mining town of Waihi. Travel through Tauranga, one of New Zealand’s fastest growing cities to Rotorua, for a 2-night stay.
February 29th – Breakfast and Dinner Included
Situated amongst flourishing native forest and natural springs, today we will see and learn all about New Zealand’s wonderful wildlife. The National Kiwi Hatchery, is the most successful Kiwi hatchery in the world. Watch ‘Conservation in Action’ where they have successfully hatched over 2100 kiwi chicks. 100% of funds go to the National Kiwi Recovery Trust.
Next, we set out on a guided walk to explore Orakei Korako Geothermal Park, arguably the best thermal area left in New Zealand. Explore a volcanic world of gushing geysers, hot springs, bubbling mud pools and some of the largest and most amazing silica terraces in the world.
After lunch we’ll make our way back to Rotorua for some free time before this evening's Maori Cultural Experience and dinner.
March 1st – Breakfast and Dinner Included
From Rotorua, the Thermal Explorer Highway takes us south to the heartland of Taupo, famous for its fresh water lake. Just about everywhere you look in the Lake Taupo region, you will see a volcano.
The journey continues as the coach makes its way through the central North Island and National Parks to Wellington. The world’s most southern capital in the “Roaring Forties” latitudes, is perched on the edge of a spectacular harbor surrounded by green, towering hills. Here you will find a unique blend of national treasures, arts and culture, gastronomic delights, shopping and scenic beauty.
March 2nd – Breakfast Included
Lace up your walking shoes! It’s a full day of exploring the city’s cultural sites. Our first stop is the Te Papa National Museum for a guided tour. Te Papa is a modern purpose-built museum with interactive and reminiscent displays offering an insight into the people called New Zealanders.
After Te Papa, we walk to the Wellington Cable Car, one of Wellington’s oldest and most popular tourist attractions. The cars run from Lambton Quay in the heart of the central business district, whisking us past corporate towers and parks, to the top of the entrance of the Wellington Botanic Gardens. Enjoy sweeping views of the city and harbour from the lookout during a break for lunch.
This afternoon we participate in a guided tour at Zealandia, the world’s first fully-fenced urban ecosanctuary. The ground breaking conservation project that has reintroduced over 20 species of native wildlife back into the area, some of which were previously absent from mainland New Zealand for over 100 years.
March 3rd – Breakfast Included
An early morning transfer to the Wellington Ferry Terminal for ferry service to the South Island. The 92km voyage takes approximately 3 hours and has been described as “one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world.”
Upon arrival into Picton, we meet our new bus and driver for service to Kaikoura, the whale watching capital of New Zealand. The picturesque coastal town is the perfect place for marine life encounters, coastal walks, and tucking into a plate of crayfish. Enroute, the group will visit a local winery with tastings included.
March 4th – Breakfast Included
Enjoy a relaxing morning stroll through a Lavender Farm admiring tranquil gardens, sipping a coffee or tea and learning about the distillation process of pure lavender and rosemary essential oils.
Visiting the Kaikoura seal colony in New Zealand’s South Island offers one of the best wildlife experiences in the country. Observe seals and seabirds, and enjoy clifftop views, while walking along the Kaikoura Peninsula. The balance of the day is at leisure.
March 5th – Breakfast and Dinner Included
From the comfort of our motorcoach, we drive through the fields of the Canterbury Plains and farmland to a High-Country Sheep Farm. Observe a sheep shearing and mustering demonstration followed by a farm-style afternoon tea.
We continue our journey through the Southern Alps to Arthur’s Pass - admire the spectacular gorges and river valleys, pausing for photo stops along the way.
Settle into our lake lodge on the stunning shores of Lake Brunner, famous for brown trout fishing. Tonight, dinner is included.
March 6th – Breakfast Included
This morning we travel to Hokitika, a ‘frontier town’ famous for Greenstone (Jade). There are some lovely old buildings on the town’s historic walk, where you can spend time observing artists at work. Visit the greenstone/pounamu galleries to watch Greenstone being sculpted, and discover the importance of this stone to Maori.
We continue onwards to Franz Josef for a self-guided glacier walk along the ancient river valley.
Overlooking New Zealand’s highest tallest peaks, Mt Cook and Mt Tasman, we spend the night at the cozy Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier which sits in the heart of the old gold rush township of Fox Glacier village.
March 7th – Breakfast Included
March 8th – Breakfast Included
Discover the rugged scenery along one of New Zealand’s most awe-inspiring highways as we drive to Queenstown. As we journey via Haast Pass, a region so spectacular UNESCO awarded it the status of being a "World Heritage" area, we stop for a self guided walk to marvel at the vast rainforests, waterfalls and untouched landscape.
An afternoon break at the Gibbston Valley Winery to experience a wine tasting in New Zealand's largest wine cave.
We spend the next two nights at the highest situated hotel in Queenstown, Kamana Lakehouse, offering spectacular views over Lake Wakatipu and the iconic mountain range. Enjoy an exclusive peaceful retreat while discovering the adventure capital.
March 9th – Breakfast and Picnic lunch Included
Experience the spectacular, remote wilderness of Doubtful Sound on a full day wilderness cruise tour. Journey across Lake Manapouri, over the breathtaking Wilmot Pass and into the heart of Fiordland National Park. Doubtful Sound is a beautiful fiord. Three times longer than Milford Sound, with twisting arms, it has a surface area ten times larger. With its rugged peaks, verdant rainforest and twisting, hidden inlets, Doubtful Sound will take your breath away. This is a must-do for nature lovers and explorers alike.
March 10th – Breakfast and Dinner Included
Departing Queenstown for Mt Cook, we will travel through ruggedly beautiful landscapes, over passes and into Mt Cook National Park, home to New Zealand’s highest mountain.
Spend the afternoon hiking the region and learning more about mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary at the Aoraki/Mt Cook Visitor's Centre complete with a museum and planetarium.
March 11th – Breakfast Included
Christchurch – Chateau on the Park Christchurch – 2 nights
Depart the Southern Alps for Christchurch, with a stop at Lake Tekapo along the way. Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd and admire the stunning scenery that surrounds this local landmark.
Upon arrival we have a city orientation tour. Christchurch is one of the world’s most unique destinations, combining urban regeneration and innovation with heritage, culture and exhilarating activity. Expect street art and innovative projects, a bustling hospitality scene and established green spaces.
March 12th – Breakfast and Dinner Included
Explore lesser-known paths around Christchurch on this walking tour of the city led by a member of Rekindle — a social enterprise where resourcefulness skills are shared among members to build self-confidence and create art out of under-valued materials. The hands-on, workshop-based environment keeps everyone engaged and helps to strengthen the community.
Discover more of the city at leisure before our farewell dinner situated in picturesque Botanic Gardens.
March 13th – Breakfast Included
Goodbye! Today we transfer to the airport for our flights home.
