12 Day Iconic Kiwi Northbound 2013 - 2014

Itinerary

DAY 1: QUEENSTOWN

Kia Ora! Hello and welcome to the next 12 Days of your Iconic Kiwi trip with Topdeck.  Today is time to play and adventure waits at every turn! Queenstown is perfect for everyone from the adrenalin junkie to the leisure seeker there is so much to do. Try a bungy jump, or a giant swing through a narrow canyon.  Skim past canyon walls on the Shotover Jet, pass through the breathtaking scenery of the Dart River on a jet boat safari or for a more leisurely view take a horseback ride through Paradise. If this is not your ‘cup of tea’, enjoy the mountains and views from a bike or hike to Ben Lomond for 360 degree views.  Admire Queenstown from above with a ride on the skyline gondola or take one of the many fantastic walks Queenstown has to offer. And if all of this seems just too much, you can always chill out in a local restaurant, cafe or bar. Our night tonight in town will include the world famous Winnies Bar for dinner – a box to tick on everyone’s list! (D)

 

DAY 2: QUEENSTOWN TO FIORDLAND (OVERNIGHT MILFORD SOUND)

Departing this morning from Queenstown we farewell this adventure playground and head to the Fiords.  We’ll visit the township of Te Anau on the shores of one of New Zealand’s many large glacial carved lakes.  There will be time to stop and admire the reflection in Mirror Lake, the views down the Hollyford Valley, and we literally drive through the mountain via the Homer Tunnel and emerge back into a landscape of spectacular mountains and waterfalls. This afternoon brings a heightened enthusiasm rearing for your Milford Sound Nature Cruise and to enjoy the stunning views that have been pictured millions of times in the Fiord.  Fur seals and bottlenose dolphins are often seen and, on the odd occasion the rare Fiordland Crested Penguins can also be out playing. Our afternoon cruise is an intimate look into the history and geology of the Fiord while exploring small nooks and crannies along the edges, nudging into sheer rock faces to examine flora and fauna in detail and is sure to be a real highlight!  After the day’s activities, enjoy the majestic beauty of the area and the rainforest that surrounds well after the crowds have gone! After a delicious evening local meal, venture out for a night stroll to visit some glow worms in this surreal place that is Milford Sound. (B,D)

 

DAY 3: FIORDLAND TO LAKE OHAU

After a filling breakfast, we’ll make our way back out through Te Anau and onwards along through the Kawarau Gorge, with its familiar “Lord of the Rings” scenery. Continuing through the Cromwell district, we take the chance to stop and stretch and sample the famous fresh and dried fruits grown in the region.  We journey up and over the Lindis Pass and wonder at the dramatic variation in scenery of these ranges to those we’ve encountered in the west. Our home tonight is a classic Kiwi Lakeside Lodge on the shores of Lake Ohau. After a superb homemade meal, be sure to save room for dessert - it has been a Topdeck favourite for years. There’s time for an evening stroll by the lake, or quiet drink on the deck as we watch the sun silhouette Mt Cook as it sets to the west. (B,D)

 

DAY 4: LAKE OHAU TO CHRISTCHURCH VIA MOUNT COOK VILLAGE

Awake to magnificent views of the mountains before you. Today we make tracks and follow the Southern Lakes hydroelectricity scheme around impressive blue water lakes with the ever-present Southern Alps as a backdrop.  If the weather is right we’ll head in to Mt Cook village, there is an opportunity to take a walk in the National Park, or simply sit back and enjoy the stunning scenery.  Next stop, Lake Pukaki, and a chance for some amazing photos as we gaze across the clear blue waters back to Mt Cook – known to the Maori people as Aoraki or “cloud piercer” – hopefully no clouds in sight to obscure our view!  The blue waters of Lake Tekapo greet us as we make a scenic lunch stop in the village. You may choose to do the breathtaking 40 minute fixed wing flight over the lakes, Southern Alps and glaciers. After lunch we make our way to the “Church of the Good Sheppard” and the monument to the Border Collie. On to Fairlie - situated smack in the heart of sheep country, we will learn about life on a Kiwi sheep farm and see the Collie dogs in action at our Kiwi Farm Experience – the homemade afternoon tea and snacks is true Kiwi Country fare. From here it’s flat going as we once again cross the Canterbury Plains into the Garden City of Christchurch. Our accommodation on the City edge is a great location with local conveniences. (B) 

 

DAY 5: CHRISTCHURCH TO NELSON (VIA KAIKOURA)

This morning is a Coastal Scenic drive as we arrive into Kaikoura, a friendly town that sits right at the foothills of the Seaward Kaikoura Ranges and the edge of the Pacific Ocean. Fans of seafood will certainly enjoy lunch in these parts – in the Maori language Kai = Food & Koura = Crayfish so why not? There's also the option of meeting some marine friends with a whale watching or dolphin or seal swimming adventure here. Leaving the town and along the coast some more into we'll stop to check out the NZ fur seals at Ohau Point. This afternoon we pass through the Rai Valley and its vineyards before arriving in Nelson – don’t’ worry we will come back for a taste in a couple of days! (B)

                                                                               

DAY 6: NELSON

The day is yours to explore your gorgeous surrounds, and nearby Abel Tasman National Park is one place not to miss. Journey into a world where native bush meets golden sands, hidden bays and crystal blue waters ... explore the park by boat, the ever-popular walking tracks or from the water as you paddle in ocean kayaks along the shoreline. For a different view, why not try an unforgettable tandem skydive? Or there’s always horse riding and quad biking for those who prefer their ocean views to remain grounded! Tonight we regroup over a traditional Kiwi BBQ dinner provided by your champion Topdeck crew. (B,D)       

 

DAY 7: NELSON TO WELLINGTON

This morning we set off, driving past lofty peaks, rural farmlands and famous vineyards before arriving into our secret Marlborough Winery for some famous NZ wine tastings. From here the short journey to Picton has us bidding our farewells to the South Island, as we jump on a ferry and traverse the Cook Strait, sit back and drink in the beauty of Marlborough Sounds from the viewing decks. Three hours later the city skyline is a welcome sight as we make our way into New Zealand’s Capital through Wellington harbour.  As we drive off the ferry we are headed for the high point of Mt Victoria for an over head city lookout and grasp our directional bearings. Our central city hotel is a great base for what is now showing to become New Zealand’s most vibrant and soulful CBD. The night is open for you to enjoy the variety of cuisines, entertainment and true Wellington vibes that are right at your doorstep. (B)               

                                                                                         

DAY 8: WELLINGTON TO TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK

A little time this morning to explore more of this vibrant city, you really should set aside at least an hour to check-out Te Papa, the National Museum of NZ.  This is not your ordinary museum but very “hands-on” and full of interesting displays and entry is free.  Maybe you’d prefer a morning stroll in the city centre, take the boardwalk along the harbour, catch up on your e-mails or perhaps take the scenic cable car up into the Botanic Gardens and check out the view from up there.   The choice is yours.  Our late morning departure sees us continue along the Kapiti Coast and further north toward the vast volcanic plateau of World Heritage listed Tongariro National Park. The three mountains at the heart of the park, Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu, have cultural and religious significance for the Maori people.  Here we bunk down for the next two nights in a true alpine retreat nestled on the edge of Whakapapa Village, with a chance to relax in the sauna and spa pool or unwind with a drink in the Terrace Bar by the fire. A hearty country style meal awaits…(B,D)

 

DAY 9: TONGARINO NATIONAL PARK

With dual cultural and natural heritage status, and often described as one of the best full day walks in NZ, the “Tongariro Crossing” is yours for the tackling today if you choose. Walk amongst two active volcanoes, a cold mountain spring, lava flows, an active crater, emerald lakes and hot springs combine to make this an enjoyable and memorable trip into a most interesting area of the park (8 hour hike – transfers at own expense, seasonal and subject to weather conditions). Around the Village there is also a number of many fine shorter walking tracks for you to experience some of Tongariro National Park's special gifts or simply relax in New Zealand’s first National Park.  If a walk is not your thing there are a variety of other optional activities available such as Quad Biking, Mountain Biking, and Kayaking (even skiing in winter), check with

your crew for the best deals. Rest and relax your weary bones with another night at the mountain lodge – perfect! (B)

 

NOTE:  Pack down to an overnight bag as tomorrow night you will be staying on a Traditional Maori Marae!

 

DAY 10: TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK TO ROTORUA (MaraE STAY)

This morning we continue north to Lake Taupo. It’s here that geothermal steam, volcanic mountains and huge crater lakes remind you that this region rests immediately above the Pacific Ring of Fire.  We’ll make a stop above the mighty Waikato River at the Taupo Bungy site, jump time available for those that dare!! A look in at the raging waters of Huka Falls, past the Wairakei Geo-thermal area, through the Pine forests and into the cultural heart of Aotearoa - Rotorua. This afternoon we visit Whakarewarewa Maori Village and Thermal Reserve to learn of the Maori lifestyle, history and customs on our tour of this unique village. We are also treated to a concert to highlight the traditional dance including the Haka! Tonight we’ll be staying in a traditional Maori Marae – the elders will welcome us on arrival in the time-honoured style. After a hearty typical family style dinner, our Whanau host will enlighten us through some Maori history and legend, jot down your questions now. Later, doze off to sleep eye to eye as you check out all of the carvings inside the Marae up close and personal. (B,D)

 

DAY 11: Rotorua

We say goodbye to the Marae after breakfast and the rest of the day is yours to explore Rotorua – melt away in the famous thermal spa pools, or indulge in a delicious massage. If you're looking for adventure, there's also mountain biking, white water rafting, the original Ogo roll down the hill in a ball or tackle some unique activities on offer at the Agroventures adventure hub. ... the list is endless! For those in the fellowship of the “Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit”, take the option to visit the set of “The Shire” at Hobbiton. Tonight we'll get together and check out Rotorua’s best night spots after dinner. (B)     

 

DAY 12: ROTORUA TO AUCKLAND

Our travel direction extends with a morning journey through some of the richest farmland areas in all of NZ. The Waikato is renowned for it’s dairy industry and it is easy to see why with the lush green rolling pastures. Continuing northward into Auckland to reach our final destination and say our goodbye’s ... as they say in Kiwi ... it's been real-as, bros! Ka Kite Ano – until we meet again!  We hope you have enjoyed the past 12 Days travelling with Topdeck and look forward to seeing you on one of our great trips again soon. (B)