{"id":115146,"date":"2022-12-15T08:44:46","date_gmt":"2022-12-15T08:44:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/tour.store\/?page_id=115146"},"modified":"2023-02-14T17:21:22","modified_gmt":"2023-02-14T07:21:22","slug":"amplified-nz-tour-christchurch-auckland-16-day","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/tour.store\/nz\/amplified-nz-tour-christchurch-auckland-16-day\/","title":{"rendered":"Amplified NZ Tour – Christchurch to Auckland (16 Day)"},"content":{"rendered":"

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16 Days \/ 16 Nights, Christchurch – Auckland<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n
Product Code:<\/strong><\/td>\nPMW0WC<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Priced Per:<\/strong><\/td>\nPerson<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Ages:<\/strong><\/td>\n18-80 Years<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n
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Our most popular trip is a 16 day itinerary jam-packed with New Zealand’s top destinations and experiences. We\u2019ll take you to the scenic highlights of the North and South Islands where you\u2019ll discover golden beaches & majestic mountains.<\/p>\n

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Our most popular trip is a 16 day itinerary jam-packed with New Zealand’s top destinations and experiences. We\u2019ll take you to the scenic highlights of the North and South Islands where you\u2019ll discover golden beaches, majestic mountains, Maori culture, surreal landscapes and a big dose of adventure!<\/p>\n

From Auckland to Christchurch (or, from Christchurch to Auckland \u2013 please see the reverse itinerary), you\u2019ll soon see that New Zealand is filled with many different landscapes and opportunities for adventure!<\/p>\n

This small-group guided tour of the North and South Island will visit Coromandel, Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington, Kaikoura, Wanaka, Queenstown, Lake Tekapo (an International Dark Sky Reserve), and Franz Josef Glacier, with the option to visit Hobbiton, Waitomo Caves, The Tongariro Crossing and Milford Sound along the way.<\/p>\n

Our Amplified tour comes complete with some very special inclusions: experiencing a Maori cultural night traditional hangi meal, learning haka and poi dance, and carving your very own pounamu (greenstone\/jade) pendant in Franz Josef.<\/p>\n

Accommodation is included on the last night of your tour, but we can also book a few extra nights for you if you would like to extend your stay.<\/p>\n

WHAT’S INCLUDED ON THIS TOUR<\/strong><\/p>\n

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  • Explore downtown Christchurch and see its inspiring regeneration since the 2011 earthquake<\/li>\n
  • Visit the tiny Church of the Good Shepherd, nestled by the shores of Lake Tekapo<\/li>\n
  • Unparalleled stargazing opportunities in Tekapo\u2019s Dark Sky Reserve<\/li>\n
  • Two nights in Queenstown, the Adventure Capital of the World<\/li>\n
  • Visit the charming, historic gold rush village of Arrowtown<\/li>\n
  • Carve your own pounamu (jade) pendant in Franz Josef<\/li>\n
  • Visit the Mountain Jade Factory in Hokitika<\/li>\n
  • Get up close to Kaikoura\u2019s cutest residents at a local seal colony<\/li>\n
  • Iconic ferry ride between the North and South Islands across the Cook Strait<\/li>\n
  • Fall in love with Wellington\u2019s cafe and craft beer culture<\/li>\n
  • Check out the views from Matairangi\/Mount Victoria, Wellington<\/li>\n
  • Discover what makes Huka Falls the most visited natural attraction in NZ<\/li>\n
  • Follow your nose to Rotorua\u2019s bubbling mud pools<\/li>\n
  • Eat a traditional Maori hangi meal cooked in an underground oven<\/li>\n
  • See kiwi birds up close and personal<\/li>\n
  • Visit Te Puia – a local cultural centre – to learn more about traditional Maori culture and discover Rotorua\u2019s geothermal wonders<\/li>\n
  • Learn a haka and learn to weave flax with a local iwi (tribe)<\/li>\n
  • Stunning walk to the spectacular arched cavern of Coromandel\u2019s Cathedral Cove<\/li>\n
  • Plus many surprise stops along the way<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    ALL HAKA ADVENTURE TOURS INCLUDE<\/strong><\/p>\n

    ORIENTATION TOURS – we give you the low-down on every location<\/p>\n

    COMFORTABLE TRANSPORT – with plenty of room to spread out<\/p>\n

    CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST EVERY DAY – heaps of options for everyone (you too, vegans!)<\/p>\n

    HIGH-END HOSTEL ACCOMMODATION – dorm share, upgrades available<\/p>\n

    EXPERIENCED LOCAL GUIDE – friendly, knowledgeable and passionate about NZ<\/p>\n

    SMALL GROUPS – MAXIMUM 16 – because you’re more than just a number!<\/p>\n

    DAY 1 \u2013 CHRISTCHURCH TO MACKENZIE COUNTRY<\/strong><\/p>\n

    Welcome to your New Zealand Adventure! This morning we\u2019ll explore iconic downtown Christchurch and your guide will show you the cool and creative ways the city is being rebuilt after the life-changing 2011 earthquake here. Christchurch folk are an innovative and creative bunch \u2013 the Transitional Cathedral, created from cardboard, is totally inspirational. After lunch we leave the city behind and head for Lake Tekapo. The lake\u2019s breathtaking turquoise colour and mountain backdrop is a photographer\u2019s dream come true. The tiny Church of the Good Shepherd stands right at the water\u2019s edge, proving that small is definitely beautiful. Grab some confetti and congratulate any passing brides \u2013 couples travel from all over the world for wedding shots in front of the chapel! Tekapo has been declared an International Dark Sky Reserve and the super clear skies make it the best place in New Zealand to see the stars and galaxies on a clear night. Sit back, relax and enjoy.<\/p>\n

    DAY 2 \u2013 MACKENZIE COUNTRY TO QUEENSTOWN<\/strong><\/p>\n

    This morning if you\u2019re feeling energetic, hike up to the summit of Mt John. With awesome views of the Southern Alps, you\u2019ll feel on top of the world. Speaking of views, today\u2019s scenic drive to Queenstown is a show-stopper. From the golden tussocklands of Mackenzie country \u2013 where epic battles of Return of the King were filmed \u2013 to the dramatic peaks of the Southern Alps, it\u2019s like you\u2019re driving into a postcard. We\u2019ll pause for lots of photo stops en route to give your camera a workout, including a stop at the spectacular Kawarau Gorge. This also happens to be the World Home of Bungy, give it a go or enjoy watching the jumpers scream their way through the gorge! Whether you\u2019re an adrenaline junkie, an avid hiker, wine taster or scenery lover, Queenstown has something for absolutely everyone. With two nights and plenty of daylight hours here, get ready \u2013 this town certainly knows how to live life to the max!<\/p>\n

    DAY 3 \u2013 QUEENSTOWN<\/strong><\/p>\n

    With a full day in Queenstown, let\u2019s work on that bucket list! There are heaps of options to choose from: paragliding over the lake, mountain bike parks and trails to die for, bungy jumping while your Haka friends cheer you on, horse riding through Lord of the Rings scenery, and swinging through a canyon are just a few of our favourites. For scenery lovers, Milford Sound is a must-see. Whether you fly or drive, the scenery en route is as awesome as the destination. Once on the Sound, sailing beneath thundering waterfalls and towering cliff faces, you\u2019ll understand why some call it the \u201c8th Wonder of the World\u201d. Tonight you have around 40 bars to choose from \u2013 your guide will fill you in on their favourites \u2013 to share your adventures with your travel buddies, and party the night away.<\/p>\n

    DAY 4 \u2013 QUEENSTOWN TO WANAKA<\/strong><\/p>\n

    One last morning in Queenstown to work on that bucket list. What will it be today \u2013 a canyoning experience, Lord of the Rings 4×4 safari, or a jet boat ride along the Shotover River? There are so many options. You decide. After the excitement of Queenstown, this afternoon is a chance to chill. Wanaka is Queenstown\u2019s slightly quieter little sister, a mere one hour drive away. On the way we\u2019ll stop in at charming Arrowtown, a historic gold rush village with heaps of old-world character. Blessed with towering peaks and a glacial blue lake, you\u2019ll soon see why Wanaka\u2019s considered to be one of New Zealand\u2019s most beautiful mountain towns. There are stunning hikes and bike rides all around for a welcome chance to relax.<\/p>\n

    DAY 5 \u2013 WANAKA TO FRANZ JOSEF<\/strong><\/p>\n

    This morning is about exploring Wanaka. How, exactly, is up to you! Optional activities include an aerobatic plane flight, skydiving, a bike tour along Wanaka\u2019s lakeside, or a lake cruise and nature walk on Mou Waho Island. If none of those appeal, there are lots of scenic short walks in the area \u2013 including a visit to #thatwanakatree. Talk to your guide for the best options. The journey to Franz is another stunner \u2013 many of our Haka Guides rate it as their favourite drive in New Zealand. As we hit the road, we\u2019ll stop at one of our top lakeside lookout points at Lake Hawea or Lake Wanaka. Your guide will keep an eye on the weather and pick the best option. From the cascading waterfalls of Haast Pass to classic Kiwi coastal views, you won\u2019t want to nap on the bus in case you miss anything. Your guide will have some epic surprise photo stops and short walks along the way. We roll into Franz Josef around late afternoon\/early evening. This UNESCO World Heritage area is famous for its spectacular glacier, just 5 kilometres from town, which is begging to be explored tomorrow.<\/p>\n

    DAY 6 \u2013 FRANZ JOSEF<\/strong><\/p>\n

    With Aoraki\/Mount Cook (New Zealand\u2019s highest mountain) twinkling behind the glaciers, Franz Josef is about as beautiful a setting as you can find in New Zealand. Te Wahi Pounamu (which means \u2018the place of greenstone\u2019 in Maori) is the name given to this part of the West Coast because of the abundance of pounamu (greenstone\/jade) to be found here. Included in your tour today is a special opportunity to carve your very own pounamu pendant at a local gallery. There are heaps of ways to enjoy Franz Josef Glacier; weather permitting, to get up onto the bluest ice you can take a scenic helicopter flight and hike onto the glaciers. Maybe you\u2019d prefer to kayak on a glacial lake; or just relax in the steamy hot springs down below. As well as the awesome glacier activities you could also try out quad biking and even a bit of group karaoke tonight in Franz Josef!<\/p>\n

    DAY 7 \u2013 FRANZ JOSEF TO CHRISTCHURCH<\/strong><\/p>\n

    After breakfast we head further along the beautiful west coast on another of the most spectacular drives in the country (and, some would say, the world): a rugged, primeval landscape of luxuriant rainforest juxtaposed against breathtaking beach and ocean waves. We stop at Hokitika and visit a greenstone factory, a great place to stock up on souvenirs for your friends and family back home. Time permitting, we may also visit the National Kiwi Centre where there is guaranteed viewing of rare kiwi birds in their nocturnal house.<\/p>\n

    DAY 8 \u2013 CHRISTCHURCH TO KAIKOURA<\/strong><\/p>\n

    You can have a lie in this morning if you want! Alternatively, there is an opportunity for hot air ballooning, surf lessons and tank driving. There is also a chance to explore the city and do some shopping before we leave for Kaiko\u00afura. Rugged snowcapped mountains drop right down to the beach in Kaiko\u00afura, making it an incredible backdrop to experience the famous sea life in the area. There\u2019s something for every traveler in Kaiko\u00afura: go giant whale watching, take a surf lesson, go fishing, kayak, play mini-golf or swim with hundreds of friendly and curious wild dolphins in the bright blue water; how often do you get to swim with dolphins in the wild? Be sure to have your camera ready for a visit to the fur seal colonies (there may even be even baby seals!) and for all of the great sea life you\u2019re going to spot.<\/p>\n

    DAY 9 \u2013 KAIKOURA TO WELLINGTON<\/strong><\/p>\n

    After kicking off the morning with some final exploration of Kaikoura, we head north. Upon arriving into Picton there is a short break to explore the port and get something to eat before catching the ferry to Wellington. One of the most iconic and classic New Zealand activities is sailing the Cook Strait between the North and South Islands. From the decks of the ferry, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of the Marlborough Sounds before heading out into the open waters of the Cook Strait. The city skyline of New Zealand’s capital will stretch our in front of you for the final stretch through Wellington Harbour. If you’d prefer to stay inside, the ferries have amenities to enjoy \u2013 from TV and cinema rooms to free Wi-Fi to various food and drink options. New Zealand\u2019s capital is famous for its bars and eateries, and is a paradise for lovers of craft beer \u2013 you\u2019ll be spoilt for choice tonight!<\/p>\n

    DAY 10 \u2013 WELLINGTON TO TAUPO<\/strong><\/p>\n

    In the morning your tour guide will give you a tour of Wellington city and the surrounding bays. This can include a trip to Weta Workshop, where films like Lord of the Rings have been made. We also may visit the parliament buildings, cable car and Mount Victoria. On the way to Taupo we drive along the Desert Road that divides the Rangipo Desert (an area with poor vegetation because of bad soil conditions and drying winds). The climate is harsh and in winter it is not unusual to see snow. However, the biggest attractions on this road are that of Mount Ruapehu, Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe, the volcano better known as Mount Doom in Lord of the Rings. On the other side of the road is the lesser noticed Kaimanawa Range, home to a breed of wild horses that can be spotted on rare occasions. We arrive at the accommodation by evening. With a whole day to explore Taupo tomorrow, feel free to relax at the hostel or go out to experience some of the town\u2019s best nightlife!<\/p>\n

    DAY 11 \u2013 TAUPO<\/strong><\/p>\n

    A full day in Taupo\u2026 are you in the mood for peaceful lakeside tranquility or unlimited adrenaline and adventure? Either way, Taupo\u2019s got you covered. For many, the ultimate adventure on offer here is the hiking (or tramping, as we Kiwis know it). The Tongariro Crossing is among the top 10 full-day walks in the world. This 19.4-kilometre mountain trek boasts emerald green lakes, venting steam, lava flows and craters. You\u2019ll come back grinning from ear to ear before falling into bed and sleeping like a baby. If you\u2019d prefer to relax, jump on a boat for a sailing trip to view Maori rock carvings. Or head to Spa Park and soak until your fingers are wrinkly. However you choose to spend today we guarantee you won\u2019t forget it.<\/p>\n

    DAY 12 – TAUPO TO MURUPARA<\/strong><\/p>\n

    After our morning in Taupo we head to Kohutapu Lodge in Murupara – a living Maori village – where you will be taken on a tribal tour by a village elder. Here you\u2019ll also have a chance to learn the world-famous haka dance, and weave your own dinner plate using flax (a type of plant). Tonight\u2019s dinner is a traditional hangi meal. Cooked in an underground earth oven you can expect tender meat and delicious vegetables infused with a smoky, earthy fragrance \u2013 it will fill your puku (belly) right up! The best part about spending the evening at Kohutapu Lodge? The majority of proceeds from this activity go back to the local community.<\/p>\n

    Please\u00a0note:<\/em><\/strong>Private accommodation upgrades are not available for this night of the\u00a0tour due to the limited availability of accommodation. In special\u00a0circumstances other arrangements may be possible – please contact\u00a0info@hakatours.com for more information.<\/em><\/p>\n

    DAY 13 \u2013 MURUPARA TO ROTORUA<\/strong><\/p>\n

    While the majority of the North Island is volcanic in some way, Rotorua is exceptional for its geothermal activity. With neon blue and red lakes, steaming rivers, active volcanoes and geysers galore, there are more unique natural wonders to be found in Rotorua than many other places in the world. On the way to Rotorua, we stop at what really makes the town famous, along with giving it its unique smell: one of several extraordinary geyserlands and thermal parks. There\u2019s heaps of time to get amongst Rotorua\u2019s diverse attractions while you’re here. We\u2019ll get you started with an orientation tour, including a stroll through the flower-filled Government Gardens by the lakefront. Lord of the Rings fans, channel your inner hobbit with an optional visit to picturesque Hobbiton \u2013 have a ginger beer at the Green Dragon pub for us! If adrenalin\u2019s your thing, the highest commercial waterfall drop in the world, on the Kaituna River, is begging to be conquered on an exhilarating rafting trip. Or let your guide coax you into thundering down grassy hills in a giant air-cushioned inflatable ball (or OGO) \u2013 you won’t regret it!<\/p>\n

    DAY 14 \u2013 ROTORUA<\/strong><\/p>\n

    Today is a free day to explore Rotorua and its surrounding area. Talk to your guide for the best free things to see and do in the neighbourhood (Kuirau Park\u2019s steaming and hissing mud pools are a great option). There are also a number of optional activities you can choose from \u2013white water rafting, zip-lining, rolling down a hill in a giant inflatable ball, river sledging and more! If adrenaline is your thing, the highest commercial waterfall drop in the world, on the Kaituna River, is begging to be conquered on an exhilarating rafting trip. Perhaps you\u2019d like to try thundering down grassy hills in a giant air-cushioned inflatable ball (aka ZORB)? A day trip to Waitomo is another option today. Famous for its glowworms there are a number of ways to experience these twinkling creatures up close. Discover the magic of both the world-famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves, as well as the enchanting Ruakuri Cave on a \u20182 cave combo\u2019 walking\/boat tour. Or you can float along an underground river on a Black Water Rafting trip as the glow worms light your path. However you spend today, be sure to get a good night\u2019s sleep as there are more Rotorua adventures tomorrow!<\/p>\n

    DAY 15 \u2013 ROTORUA TO COROMANDEL<\/strong><\/p>\n

    It\u2019s no secret that many blockbuster hits have been filmed in New Zealand due to our incredible landscapes. Around lunchtime, we head of to the Coromandel to discover them first-hand. We\u2019ll walk together out along the cliffs down to Cathedral Cove (which you might recognise from the Chronicles of Narnia films). Beautiful in its own right, with perfect beaches and massive rock arches and columns it\u2019s one of the most popular spots in the Coromandel and for good reason!<\/p>\n

    DAY 16 \u2013 COROMANDEL TO AUCKLAND<\/strong><\/p>\n

    Beautiful remote beaches, dense wooded forest and clear blue waters make the Coromandel one of New Zealand\u2019s favourite getaways. At low tide, we\u2019ll make our way out to the world-famous Hot Water Beach. When the tide\u2019s out, you can dig a hole in the sand where natural hot springs bubble up to create your own personal hot tub! Finally, we head to Auckland, New Zealand\u2019s biggest city. Auckland sits on the narrow sliver of land where the Northland peninsula tapers south to meet the rest of the North Island. So the sea is always nearby, and it isn’t difficult to guess the origin of its nickname \u2018City of Sails\u2019. Your tour officially ends at 8pm today in Auckland, so feel free to party on with your new travel buddies for as long as you like \u2013 your accommodation tonight is included so you can treat yourself to a lie-in in the morning! Or if you have a few spare days, why not hop on our three day Bay of Islands tour?<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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