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Capital Odyssey |
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Day 1 Auckland - Rotorua This morning take delivery of your rental vehicle. Drive South over the Bombay Hills and follow the New Zealand's mighty Waitako River to arrive Hamilton You may consider deviating South and travelling via the Waitomo Caves. Departing the city treverse the Mamaku Ranges and descend to Rotorua. The balance of the day is free. Day 2 Rotorua Today is free to discover this spectacular wonderland. Suggested sights include a visit to the geothermal areas, a farm show and a marae ( meeting ground ) based Maori Concert. The more adventurous may consider a Mt. Tarawera excursion or a whitewater rafting trip. Rotorua boasts an extensive range of attractions. Day 3 Rotorua - Taupo - Napier Travel south past through Kaiangoroa, the World’s largest man-made forest. View New Zealand’s geothermal power stations and the Huka Falls before arriving in Taupo. Traverse the rugged Kaimanawa Ranges to reach the Hawkes Bay and Napier - famous for its Art Deco buildings built after the 1931 earthquake. Another attraction is its high quality vineyards and orchards. Day 4 Napier - Wellington The morning suggested attractions may include: Napier's Art Deco buildings, local wineries, Bluff Hill and the marine parade attractions. Departing Napier travel across the Takapau Plains before reaching the southern Hawkes Bay town of Dannevirke. Dannevirke was originally settled by Scandinavians. Continue on to Mount Bruce home of the National Wildlife Centre with its collection in rare New Zealand birds. Drive through Masterton the administrative centre of the Wairarapa District. Pass through the market gardens of Greytown and traverse the rugged Rimutaka Ranges to arrive in Wellington, the Nation's Capital. Day 5 Wellington A free day in the Harbour Capital. Must see sights include the Cable Car, Te Papa - Museum of New Zealand, Mt. Victoria, The Beehive and Parliament Buildings and the city’s wild south coast. No visit to Wellington is complete with out a visit to Courtney Place, New Zealand’s leading dining and entertainment district. Day 6 Wellington - Mount Ruapehu Return your vehicle at the Railway Station and board the Overlander train. Tavel 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 climbing 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 on the slopes of Mt. Ruapehu. Day 7 Mount Ruapehu - Auckland Spend time this morning discovering the unique sights of the Tongariro National Park. Reboard the Overlander. The rails descend the Rarimu Spiral and travel through the hilly King Country district to reach the Waikato farmlands and Hamilton. Depart Hamilton and retrace your route back to Auckland. |
Maori Action Songs
Wellington, the Capital, by night
Mt Ruapehu
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Prices are valid until 30 September 2008
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