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Heartland Explorer |
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Day 1 Christchurch - Wellington Travelling north The Coastal Pacific train skirts the Hundalee Hills to join the coast near Kaikoura: famous for its crayfish [lobster] and whale watching. Continue along the rugged seashore before heading inland. Pass through the wine producing Wairau Valley before reaching Picton. Board the Interislander and sail through the beautiful Marlborough Sounds and across Cook Strait to arrive Wellington. Day 1 or 2 Wellington - Mt. Raupehu The Overlander train travels north to the Kapiti Coast and its famous Kapiti Island bird reserve. Follow the base of the Tararua Ranges and over the Manawatu River prior to commencing the climb to the Volcanic Plateau with its 9000 ft. volcanic peak Mt. Ruapehu. Hug the base of the mountain to National Park and your transfer to the Whakapapa Village located on the slopes of Mt. Ruapehu. Day 2 or 3 Mt. Ruapehu - Taupo - Rotorua Travel up the mountain road and ride the chairlifts to the Knoll Ridge Chalet, ( optional ) New Zealand’s highest restaurant, with its panoramic views over the Central North Island. Time allows for a brief alpine walk before returning to your accommodation. Pass Mts. Ngauruhoe and Tongariro and round Lake Rotoaira to arrive in Turangi. Change coaches and hug the shores of Lake Taupo. Pass geothermal power stations and massive pine forests to Rotorua. Day 3 or 4 Rotorua This morning’s half day tour first visits geysers, steaming pools and boiling mud. The excitement continues at the Agrodome where the stars of the show are nearly all sheep. After learning of New Zealand farming heritage relax amongst the native bush and crystal clear pools teaming with Brown and Rainbow trout. The afternoon is free. Day 4 or 5 Rotorua - Auckland The morning will be free for final sightseeing. Depart Rotorua on the Geothermal Wonders train and traverse the Mamaku Ranges. Descend to the Waikato farmland before reaching Hamilton. Follow the Waikato River, New Zealand longest, to arrive Auckland. |
Mt Ruapehu - Tongariro Park
Whakarewarewa Geysers - Rotorua |
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Prices are valid until 30 September 2008 |
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