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17 Day Ultimate Festive Season

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Operated by Grand Pacific Tours
Tripcode: UGPNX17
Hot Offer!
Overview
Destination:
New Zealand
Duration:17 days
Type:Group tour (max 20)
Travel Period
December 2026 - December 2026
GPT 2026/2027 Season Launch: Save up to $150pp - Members save more^
Celebrate an ultimate Christmas in the South Island and New Year in the North Island
*Note: All prices are based on Land-Only, upgrade to a flight inclusive package available upon request.
Highlights:
Standard inclusions
  • Christchurch Tram
  • Larnach Castle and Ultimate High Tea
  • Milford Sound Cruise and Lunch
  • Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw
  • Lakes District Museum
  • TranzAlpine Rail Journey
  • Cruise on the Interislander Ferry, Premium Lounge
  • Te Papa, NZ's National Museum
  • Skyline Rotorua Gondola and Luge Ride
  • Agrodome
  • Thermal mud pools and geysers
  • Te Puia traditional Māori Hāngi and Concert
  • Waitangi Treaty Grounds
  • Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise
  • Kauri Museum
  • Christchurch City Sights Tour
  • Dunedin City Sights Tour
  • Wellington City Sights Tour
  • Auckland City Sights Tour
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Itinerary
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Day 1 - Arrive Christchurch

On arrival into Christchurch, you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening enjoy a complimentary pre-dinner drink as you meet your travelling companions.

Hotel

5 Star Accommodation

The George Christchurch typifies luxury at every level.  Located in the heart of Christchurch overlooking the picturesque Hagley Park and River Avon.  The only luxury 5-star boutique hotel in Christchurch with a one-to-one staff to guest ratio, guaranteeing impeccable service.  The modern, soothing and relaxing rooms provide everything for a memorable visit with sumptuously comfortable beds and furnishings, elegant white tiled bathrooms, generous toiletries, and room amenities to ensure you will have the most blissfully comfortable stay.

Meals D
Day 2 - Christchurch (Free Day)

Today is a free day to explore Christchurch at leisure. Enjoy a journey on board the Christchurch Tram, one of Christchurch’s leading attractions. The all-day ticket allows you to visit the central city sights onboard a beautifully restored heritage tram. This evening is free to dine at leisure.

Hotel

5 Star Accommodation

The George Christchurch typifies luxury at every level.  Located in the heart of Christchurch overlooking the picturesque Hagley Park and River Avon.  The only luxury 5-star boutique hotel in Christchurch with a one-to-one staff to guest ratio, guaranteeing impeccable service.  The modern, soothing and relaxing rooms provide everything for a memorable visit with sumptuously comfortable beds and furnishings, elegant white tiled bathrooms, generous toiletries, and room amenities to ensure you will have the most blissfully comfortable stay.

Meals B
Day 3 - Christchurch - Dunedin

This morning enjoy a city sights tour of the Garden City, Christchurch. Travel south to Oamaru, famous for its Limestone before arriving into Dunedin.

Hotel

4.5 Star Accommodation

2024 Travellers Choice Winner and ranked in the top 20 of all hotels in NZ on TripAdvisor. The Distinction Dunedin Hotel is elegant, luxurious and located in the rejuvenated and vibrant Warehouse Precinct in the heart of the city. The ideal combination of style and functionality. These air-conditioned Dunedin Studios offer a cloud-like super king bed and modern ensuite bathroom with a luxurious dual fixture walk-in rain shower plus complimentary Distinction toiletries.

Meals B,D
Day 4 - Dunedin - Christmas Day

Merry Christmas! Enjoy a leisurely start to the day before experiencing an informative city tour of Dunedin. This afternoon travel along the Otago Peninsula to Larnach Castle. On a guided tour you will hear the tragic and scandalous tales that make up the castle’s history. Enjoy time to wander around this Garden of International Significance followed by a delicious Christmas Dinner in the grand ballroom.

Hotel

4.5 Star Accommodation

2024 Travellers Choice Winner and ranked in the top 20 of all hotels in NZ on TripAdvisor. The Distinction Dunedin Hotel is elegant, luxurious and located in the rejuvenated and vibrant Warehouse Precinct in the heart of the city. The ideal combination of style and functionality. These air-conditioned Dunedin Studios offer a cloud-like super king bed and modern ensuite bathroom with a luxurious dual fixture walk-in rain shower plus complimentary Distinction toiletries.

Meals B,SD
Day 5 - Dunedin - Te Anau

Farewell Dunedin and travel through Balclutha and Gore to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland and your overnight stay. Today you may like to visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves (optional).

Hotel

4 Star Accommodation

Surrounded by extensive, colourful gardens and overlooking spectacular Lake Te Anau and the Fiordland ranges this elegant 4 star hotel and villa accommodation sets the tone for your stay in one of the world’s most breathtaking regions. You will stay in a spacious and superbly appointed room with striking views of Lake Te Anau from your window.

Meals B,D
Day 6 - Te Anau - Milford Sound - Queenstown

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. This afternoon travel to Queenstown, overlooking magical Lake Wakatipu. Spend the next two nights at this year-round resort which offers a wide range of activities and attractions. This evening is at leisure to dine at one of the many fine restaurants.

Hotel

4 Star Plus Accommodation

Queenstown, New Zealand’s mountain playground, is one of the great alpine regions of the world and the charming Rendezvous Heritage Queenstown Hotel calls this place home - the resort offers a hotel experience certain to leave you breathless.

The vistas from Rendezvous Heritage Queenstown are awe-inspiring - soak in the view of the towering Remarkables mountain range, rising from the rippling waters of Lake Wakatipu from the comfort of the hotel. Crafted from centuries-old schist stone and cedar, this comfortable and sophisticated Queenstown hotel is the perfect place to relax.

Our spacious, beautifully appointed Queenstown hotel rooms have views of the majestic Lake Wakatipu, surely one of the most beautiful views to be found in Queenstown, New Zealand.

Meals B,L
Day 7 - Queenstown (Free Day)

Today is a free day for you to explore Queenstown with many optional activities available. You may wish to enjoy the thrill of a jet boat ride or a heritage tour of the scenic Skippers Canyon. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back, relax and enjoy a delicious gourmet barbecue dinner featuring a menu of seasonal, fresh and locally sourced food at the Colonel’s Homestead. After dinner enjoy a short farm tour then reboard the TSS Earnslaw for a sing along by the piano as you cruise back to Queenstown.

Hotel

4 Star Plus Accommodation

Queenstown, New Zealand’s mountain playground, is one of the great alpine regions of the world and the charming Rendezvous Heritage Queenstown Hotel calls this place home - the resort offers a hotel experience certain to leave you breathless.

The vistas from Rendezvous Heritage Queenstown are awe-inspiring - soak in the view of the towering Remarkables mountain range, rising from the rippling waters of Lake Wakatipu from the comfort of the hotel. Crafted from centuries-old schist stone and cedar, this comfortable and sophisticated Queenstown hotel is the perfect place to relax.

Our spacious, beautifully appointed Queenstown hotel rooms have views of the majestic Lake Wakatipu, surely one of the most beautiful views to be found in Queenstown, New Zealand.

Meals B,SD
Day 8 - Queenstown - Franz Josef

Travel to Arrowtown, an old goldmining village and visit the Lakes District Museum. Continue via the Haast Pass to the West Coast, an area of stunning beauty. See the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel north to the township of Fox Glacier. Next you visit Franz Josef, where time is available to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the spectacular glaciers before arriving at your hotel.

Hotel

5 Star Accommodation

Legacy Te Waonui Hotel, Franz Josef is truly luxurious and can be found in an area of native rainforest which has been carefully preserved. All the guest room balconies look out into the rainforest, which contains mature trees up to 20m high. Guests get a real sense of seclusion and privacy during their stay. Lavishly appointed guest rooms, generously proportioned and featuring the highest standard of room amenities, such as your own personal pillow menu, natural wool mattress underlay and high-speed Internet access. 

Meals B,D
Day 9 - Franz Josef - Arthur’s Pass - Christchurch

Travel to Hokitika and visit the Greenstone Factory. Continue to Arthur’s Pass and board the TranzAlpine, renowned as one of the great train journeys of the world. View rivers and valleys as you travel through the Waimakariri Basin, over massive viaducts and through the patchwork farmlands of the Canterbury Plains. On arrival into the elegant city of Christchurch, your Ultimate Coach will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel.

Hotel

5 Star Accommodation

The George Christchurch typifies luxury at every level.  Located in the heart of Christchurch overlooking the picturesque Hagley Park and River Avon.  The only luxury 5-star boutique hotel in Christchurch with a one-to-one staff to guest ratio, guaranteeing impeccable service.  The modern, soothing and relaxing rooms provide everything for a memorable visit with sumptuously comfortable beds and furnishings, elegant white tiled bathrooms, generous toiletries, and room amenities to ensure you will have the most blissfully comfortable stay.

Meals B,D
Day 10 - Christchurch - Picton - Wellington -New Year's Eve

Travel along the East Coast to the seaside village of Kaikōura. Enjoy the spectacular scenery as you travel through Marlborough Country, famous for its food and wine. Continue to Picton, where you will board the Interislander Ferry and experience the comfort and intimate setting of the Premium Lounge. Enjoy complimentary refreshments as you travel through the Marlborough Sounds to Wellington. This evening enjoy a pre-dinner drink to toast the New Year with your fellow travellers.

Hotel

5 Star Accommodation

Adjacent to Wellington’s waterfront, InterContinental Wellington is the most centrally located and experienced global five-star hotel in New Zealand’s capital city. It is the seamless and personal service of the team that makes your Wellington accommodation and travel experience truly memorable. In your room you will enjoy an enriching stay featuring walk-in showers, with handheld and rain shower heads, digital lighting controls and much more. Feel rejuvenated in the morning after a tranquil night’s sleep on your king bed inspired to uncover the New Zealand capital.

Meals B,D
Day 11 - Wellington

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. Reboard your coach for an extensive city tour which showcases the history and culture on show. Enjoy free time this afternoon and this evening is also free to choose your own dining arrangements.

Hotel

5 Star Accommodation

Adjacent to Wellington’s waterfront, InterContinental Wellington is the most centrally located and experienced global five-star hotel in New Zealand’s capital city. It is the seamless and personal service of the team that makes your Wellington accommodation and travel experience truly memorable. In your room you will enjoy an enriching stay featuring walk-in showers, with handheld and rain shower heads, digital lighting controls and much more. Feel rejuvenated in the morning after a tranquil night’s sleep on your king bed inspired to uncover the New Zealand capital.

Meals B
Day 12 - Wellington - Taupo - Rotorua

Depart Wellington and view the snow-capped peaks of Mt Ruapehu and Mt Tongariro as you travel to Lake Taupo. Visit the spectacular Huka Falls then travel along the Thermal Explorer Highway to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua.

Hotel

5 Star Accommodation

The Regent of Rotorua is an exquisitely designed oasis of understated elegance located in the Rotorua city centre, featuring contemporary decor with a touch of opulence. The rooms offer a taste of glamour including king beds, leather headboards, sumptuous linens and down pillows/duvet.

Meals B,D
Day 13 - Rotorua

Today begins with a gondola ride and breakfast at Skyline Rotorua where spectacular views are on offer. There is also time for a thrilling luge ride! Next stop is the Agrodome for an action-packed hour of farming entertainment and education that is unlike anything you’ve seen before. Free time is available this afternoon before travelling to Te Puia to see the boiling mud pools and awesome geysers that Rotorua is famous for. This evening experience an entertaining Māori Hāngi and Concert.

Hotel

5 Star Accommodation

The Regent of Rotorua is an exquisitely designed oasis of understated elegance located in the Rotorua city centre, featuring contemporary decor with a touch of opulence. The rooms offer a taste of glamour including king beds, leather headboards, sumptuous linens and down pillows/duvet.

Meals B,SD
Day 14 - Rotorua - Bay of Islands

This morning depart Rotorua and travel north via Whangarei to the Bay of Islands. This afternoon enjoy a guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the location of the signing of the treaty between the Māori tribes and the British.

Hotel

4 Star Accommodation

Any time of year is ideal for escaping to the Bay of Islands in the ‘Winterless North’, and this property, situated at the entrance to the seaside town of Paihai, is the perfect resort-style retreat.

The island-influenced architecture with expansive sub-tropical gardens, water features, extensive guest facilities and easy walking access to Paihia’s main local attractions makes this 4-star Hotel a standout.

Meals B,D
Day 15 - Bay of Islands

This morning you will explore the scenic beauty of the Bay of Islands including an island visit. Cruise to Cape Brett and the famous ‘Hole in the Rock’, keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine life. On return to Paihia, enjoy a free afternoon where a range of optional activities are available, or you may choose to relax and enjoy the pleasant atmosphere of the waterfront. This evening is also at leisure, you may like to enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise (optional).

Hotel

4 Star Accommodation

Any time of year is ideal for escaping to the Bay of Islands in the ‘Winterless North’, and this property, situated at the entrance to the seaside town of Paihai, is the perfect resort-style retreat.

The island-influenced architecture with expansive sub-tropical gardens, water features, extensive guest facilities and easy walking access to Paihia’s main local attractions makes this 4-star Hotel a standout.

Meals B
Day 16 - Bay of Islands - Auckland

Depart the Bay of Islands this morning and travel via Whangarei to Matakohe. Enjoy a visit and informative talk at the Kauri Museum before continuing to Auckland for a city sights tour. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner including selected beverages with your newfound friends.

Hotel

4 Star Plus Accommodation

Nestled in the vibrant heart of downtown Auckland, Crowne Plaza Auckland offers a truly magnificent experience infused with kiwi charm. Explore the enchanting ‘city of sails’ from the inside out thanks to the great location. After an exciting day of sightseeing, retreat to the comfort of your spacious room, meticulously designed to cater for the modern traveller. 

Meals B,SD
Day 17 - Depart Auckland

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

Meals B
Dates

Select a date or submit general enquiry

Enquire now

Travellers

Operator
Grand Pacific Tours

Since 1996, Grand Pacific Tours, the New Zealand Coach Holiday Specialist has been indulging travellers from all over the world with the holiday of a lifetime. Taking a coach tour is like choosing the best seat in the house. Through large panoramic windows, you will be in awe of the picture-postcard scenery that is unveiled with every corner turned. Tour in style, choose between an Ultimate Small Group Tour, boasting a Business Class level of comfort with only 20 luxury leather seats, or a Signature Mid-Size Group Tour, enjoying Premium Economy comfort onboard a coach with 32 seats. Select an itinerary from their extensive product range to suit your desired holiday duration and one of their 230+ guaranteed departure dates. The choice is yours!

Important Information
*Terms and conditions
Please note: We are proud to be an independent agent to travel providers of hotels, flights and other related services. We are not a tour operator. Details and information on the offer are provided by 3rd party businesses and although we do our best to verify the information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on all occasions. These offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer unless otherwise stated. Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice. For more information, please see Terms of Use
^GPT 2026/2027 Season Launch Save up to $150pp: Terms & Conditions

Save $150 per person on this particular tour within the Grand Pacific Tours' 2026/2027 season - Members save more.

Savings reflected in the prices shown.

Conditions apply. Save $150 pp off the brochure price valid on new bookings only for travel Dec 2026. Not to be used in conjunction with any other special offer; not applicable on group departures; can be withdrawn at any time without notice.

Further terms and conditions may apply, for full details, please enquire with your RACV Travel Expert when enquiring.

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Price from
$11,449 $10,877 *
Member price from
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16 nights
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