New Zealand Grand Traverse Tour Itinerary

New Zealand Grand Traverse Tour Itinerary
REF: AUNZ13
VERSION: 7

Duration:	15 days - Auckland to Queenstown
Countries Visited:	New Zealand
Age Guide:	18-60 years
Max Group Size:	30
Transport:	Private Vehicle , Ferry , Bicycle, On Foot
Accommodation:	Camping (14 Nights)
What's Included:	14 Breakfasts, 10 Lunches and 12 Dinners - All Activities and Entrance Fees as per Itinerary - Fully Escorted Tour - Driver/Guide
Local Payment:	NO LOCAL PAYMENT
Highlights:	New Zealand - Auckland - Coromandel Peninsula - Cathedral Cove Beach - Hot Water Beach - Rotorua - Wai-O-Tapu Mud Pools & Geysers - Huka Falls - Wellington - Kaikoura - Christchurch - Rangitata Gorge - Lake Tekapo - Mt Cook - Moeraki Boulders - Dunedin - Fiordland National Park - Milford Sound - Te Anau - Queenstown
Optional Highlights:	New Zealand - Sea Kayaking - Polynesian Pools - Gondola and Luge Rides - Sky Diving - Tongariro Crossing Walk - Te Papa Museum - Whale Watching (seasonal) - Dolphin Swim - Seal Swim - White Water Rafting - Penguin Tour - Cadbury Factory Tour - Brewery Tour - Milford Sound Cruise - Greenstone Track - Kepler Track - Jet Boating - Bungy Jumping - Horse Trekking - Gondola Rides
Meeting Point:	10 am on Day 1 172 Quay Street (Opposite the ferry building) Auckland New Zealand
Introduction:	A full circumnavigation of New Zealand! If you want to get to know New Zealand in depth, then this trip is the one to do. Highlights include the Bay of Islands, thermal wonders of Rotorua, glaciers, the wild West Coast, Milford Sound, whale watching, dolphin swimming, the adventure capital Queenstown and many, many more. Covering the entire island allows you to try a huge variety of cycle routes and terrains - something for every taste! This action and adventure wilderness experience trip guarantees to show you the best of the North and South Island and the experience of a lifetime. This tour begins in Auckland, and heads north first to enjoy the stunning Bay of Islands, before continuing south to Wellington, around the South Island, and then back to Auckland.
Day 1:	Auckland - Coromandel Peninsula. We meet at 10am ready to depart Auckland and escape the city, heading for the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula. If you are spending time in Auckland before the start of the tour, then you are free to explore Auckland at your leisure. Auckland sprawls across an 11km (8 mile) wide volcanic isthmus separating two natural harbours, the Waitemata Harbour to the east and Manukau Harbour to the west. The youngest volcano, Rangitoto Island, a symbol of the city, erupted from the sea a mere 755 years ago. More than 50 islands scatter the Hauraki Gulf. Auckland is recognised as having the largest boat ownership per capita in the world. Home to a population of more than one million people, Auckland represents the largest urban city in New Zealand and is recognised as having the largest concentration of Polynesian people in the world. You can opt to cycle the scenic route following Pohutukawa-lined shores with magnificent views of the peninsula, or take the easier option travelling in the vehicle! We spend a relaxing afternoon at Cathedral Cove beach, and if the tide is right, dig pools and bathe in the thermal springs of Hot Water Beach. Optional sea kayaking is available around the dramatic coastlines. There is a scenic cycle ride to camp from Tairua Hill. We camp near the beach tonight. B/L/D
Day 2:	Coromandel - Rotorua. Drive or cycle to stunning Whiritoa beach for a swim or forest walk amongst the massive Pohutukawa trees. We continue to Rotorua and its thermal wonders. Here there are optional activities like the head spinning Zorb, the luge or the relaxing Polynesian Pools. Maybe take a cycle ride from camp around the lake nestled below the dormant but dramatic Mt Tarawera. B/L/D
Day 3:	Rotorua - Turangi. A relaxed start at our lake side camp. We visit Wai-O-Tapu md pools, and drive on tothe impressive Huka Falls. Walk or cycle to the great lakeside setting of Taupo. There is optional skydiving or bungy jump. Mts Ngauruhoe, Tongariro and Ruapehu dominate the skyline as we journey along the shores of one of the largest crater lakes in the world. Camp in Turangi. B/L/D
Day 4:	Turangi - Optional Tangariro Alpine Crossing Walk. Today there is the chance to try one of the world’s greatest one day walks - the “Tongariro Alpine Crossing”. Alternatively, cycle around the mountain enjoying an inspiring backdrop. After some great exploring we head to our accommodation for recharging and refuelling. B/L/D
Day 5:	Wellington - Picton. Onto the capital, Wellington, for café culture, good bars, the celebrated Te Papa Museum and the botanical gardens. If you're still keen and feeling flush the capital is a great place for some shopping. We then enjoy a fantatic ferry ride (included) to the stunning South Island. B Accommodation is not included this evening, but your guide will assist you to make a booking to suit your budget.
Day 6:	Kaikoura. Today we travel the Pacific coast to Kaikoura. Cycle the stunning coastal route where close encounters with fur seals and a myriad of sea birds are common. Optional whale watch, sea kayak and coastal walk available. We stay at a beach camp with an amazing sunrise opportunity. L/D
Day 7:	Kaikoura - Christchurch - Rangitata Gorge. This morning there is an optional dolphin swim or seal swim if you prefer or a chance to cycle by the nature-rich coast. Explore Christchurch, the “Garden City”, then head across Canterbury Plains to Rangitata Gorge with great walks, rides and accommodation at the foot of the Alps. B/D
Day 8:	Geraldine & Mackenzie Basin - Lake Tekapo - Lake Pukaki. Here there is optional white water rafting on the Rangitata river or a morning cycle or walks in Peel Forest. Later we travel through Geraldine and Mackenzie Basin with views of the Main Divide. Cycle to Lake Tekapo and visit the historic church before travelling to our Lake Pukaki camp (can swim here) with views of Mt. Cook. B/L/D
Day 9:	Mt Cook - Oamaru (Optional Penguin Tour). Opt for a morning cycle towards Mt Cook or hikes around the Mt Cook basin before making our way to the east coast. A short stop in Oamaru before heading to our coastal camp. Here there is the chance for a scenic cycle ride or walks, or a swim at the beach. An optional penguin tour is also available. B/L/D
Day 10:	Moeraki Boulders - Dunedin - Catlins Area. Take a morning coastal walk or cycle. Visit bizarre Moeraki Boulders. Explore historic and picturesque Dunedin. Have a go at cycling or walking up the world’s steepest street! There is also a chance to sample the delights of the Cadbury (Chocolate) factory or Speights Brewery depending on your tastes. We travel on to the spectacular and natural beauty of the Catlins area for the night. Maybe choose to cycle from camp to Nugget Point Lighthouse along a quiet country road. B/D
Day 11:	Lake Manapouri - Te Anau - Fiordland National Park. Journey through scenic southern pastures, stopping for lunch on the shores of Lake Manapouri. Visit the lake town of Te Anau before heading for Fiordland National Park and our historic camp in the unspoilt Hollyford Valley where cycle rides and walks abound. B/L/D
Day 12:	Homer Tunnel - Milford Sound (Optional Boat Trip). One of the world’s most scenic routes into Milford Sound! Fantastic stop offs and more photo opportunities than you could handle! Cycle the magnificent descent from Homer Tunnel (3000ft)! Excellent optional boat cruise to experience the beauty of the fiord. The Routeburn, Greenstone Track walkers depart here for their awesome trek. Stunning lakeside camp. B/L/D
Day 13:	Te Anau - Optional Overnight Kepler Track Hike. Explore Te Anau with plenty of time to walk, fish or cycle in the area. There is an optional day or overnight hike on the Kepler Track with panoramic views from Mt Luxmore. Also the chance to try some jet boating or visit the enchanting glowworm caves. We stay at the same amazing lakeside camp in Te Anau. B/D
Day 14:	Queenstown. Journey to Queenstown along the shores of Lake Wakatipu. We stay in a camp overlooking the lake and town, just stumbling distance to get home. Queenstown is the adventure capital and there are bars, activities and thrills galore! Track walkers re-join the group. A big night out for those who are keen. B/L
Day 15:	Queenstown - Free Day. Queenstown with its multitude of adrenalin activities - bungy, fly-by-wire, jet boat, rafting, horse trekking, parapenting, skydive, gondola ride - this place has it all, as well as spectacular views. Camp beside a tranquil lake with hikes, cycling and swimming all available and a chance to wind down and compare notes and photos from your Queenstown thrills! Tour ends after breakfast. B
Finishing Point (Drop Off Point):	Queenstown Lake View Holiday Park Upper Brecon Street Queenstown
Please Note:	This tour is operated in conjunction with our local representatives in New Zealand. You may be joined by other Kumuka passengers as well as travellers who have booked through other agencies. Please be aware that arrival times and the itinerary may change due to unforeseen delays or events such as festivals and public holidays. However, we shall endeavour to ensure all sites are visited and that your tour runs as smoothly as possible. Be flexible, you will enjoy your tour much more. There may also be a need to change the itinerary slightly in the winter, depending on weather conditions. This itinerary will be followed as closely as possible. However there may be times when it is necessary to change the route according to local conditions. You are free not to participate in any of the included excursions. However, please note that there will be no refund for any excursions not taken. Lastly, your tour guide is always conscious of everybody's views, but sometimes he/she will have to make an unpopular decision and your understanding will be appreciated in these circumstances.
What's Not Included:	All optional excursions and meals unless otherwise stated in the itinerary, visas, tipping, pre-tour and post-tour accommodation. Also cycle hire, private cycle handling and sleepng bags are not included.

Pre Departure Information Follows


Pre Departure Meeting:	Please note that there is NO pre departure meeting for this tour. Pick up times are outlined on Day 1 and in the Meeting Point information, and also on your tour voucher. In each departure city we have named a meeting point from where the tour will leave. It is your responsibility to make your way to this point, and to arrive there in plenty of time ready to depart at the specified time. The crew will check that all passengers have the necessary travel documents, insurance and immunization certificates for the tour. All passengers MUST bring: 1. Passport. 2. Vaccination Certificate. 3. Travel Voucher. 4. Travel Insurance Policy.
Insurance:	Travel insurance is compulsory for all tours. All clients MUST be insured to cover personal accident, medical expenses, cancellation, curtailment, repatriation, etc. Also, be aware that many activities such as trekking, bungy jumping or white water rafting may not be covered on your insurance policy. If you plan on doing any of these activities please purchase additional insurance. We recommend that you have a photocopy of this document, which you keep separate from the original. If you have not already arranged your own travel insurance then Kumuka can do this for you. Please visit http://www.kumuka.com/Travel-Insurance.aspx for more details or contact your nearest Kumuka office. Please Note: You will not be permitted to join a Kumuka Tour without travel insurance.
Passport:	Your passport is a valuable document and you should exercise extreme care in keeping it safe. We recommend that you keep your passport on you at all times, preferably in a money belt that is worn under your clothing. We advise that you take copies of relevant pages in your passport and any visas that you may purchase in case of loss or damage. Your tour leader will require your passport details at the pre-departure meeting. Again, we recommend that you have a photocopy of all passport details, kept separate. Your passport must be valid for six months after the END of your tour, and must have one blank page for each country to be visited.
Visa Requirements:	It is important that you obtain the appropriate visas before you embark on your Kumuka trip. Country entry regulations change daily, www.kumuka.com provides you with visa information. Please consult your relevant embassy for all details such as opening hours or costs. EACH CLIENT IS SOLELY RESPONSIBLE FOR OBTAINING ALL NECESSARY VISAS BEFORE JOINING A TOUR. Kumuka does not accept responsibility for changes in regulations or requirements for visas. The information provided is given in good faith.
Medical Information & Vaccinations:	Vaccinations: No vaccinations are compulsory in New Zealand, however you may need additional inoculations so please contact your G.P or a travel medical centre for further information. We also recommend: A dental check-up prior to travelling. That you know your blood group in case of emergency. That if you have any pre-existing medical conditions which might affect you on tour, you make these known to your tour leader and your agent/Kumuka at the time of your booking. You can also visit www.kumuka.com for further details. Medical Supplies: We advise that all passengers bring along their own personal first aid kit. Below is a list of some recommended items: Band Aids/Bandages, Laxatives, Upset stomach remedy, Anti-diarrhoea remedy, Panadol/Aspirin, Rehydration remedy, Antiseptic cream/powder, Sterile dressing, any relevant course of medication such as contraceptive pills. A complete Travellers Medical Pack can be purchased for approximately US$25 at most Vaccination Centres, Chemists and outdoor travel shops.
Security:	- Do not take unnecessary valuables with you. - A money belt, or something similar, worn close to your body is the best way to carry passports, airline tickets and money. - DO NOT leave any valuables in ANY hotel room, please use SAFETY DEPOSIT BOXES. Items are left at the individuals’ risk. - Pickpockets operate worldwide, you must always exercise care. - Be aware that anything left lying around could also be liable to theft.
Money:	We recommend an average of NZ$50-75 per day. This of course depends on your own spending habits, the number of optional excursions you wish to take and the amount of additional snacks, souvenirs and drinks you wish to buy along the way. Be aware that some towns and cities are more expensive than others. Similarly there will be some days when you may spend nothing at all and others when you exceed your budget. We advise that you carry a mixture of cash, credit/debit cards and travellers cheques with you on your trip. We suggest that you record your travellers cheque numbers and keep these records separate from your cheques. American Express and Thomas Cook Travellers Cheques are most widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted virtually everywhere in New Zealand. They can also be used to obtain money from ATMs. You should make sure you know your PIN number. ATM cards can be used widely in New Zealand. Again, you will need your PIN. Your bank will provide you with more details.
Luggage and Personal Equipment:	How much should I take? - Please bring lightweight walking shoes or sandals, and a day sac. - Because of limited luggage space on transport, we must limit each passenger to ONE main suitcase or frameless backpack and one day bag. Your main bag must not weigh more than 20 kg’s. A frameless or internally framed backpack is the best way to carry your belongings since it is easy to lift on and off vehicles. - A small daypack is practical for keeping general items (e.g. camera, books, wallets etc.) at hand when your main pack is out of reach. It is also handy for day trips and excursions. - We also recommend that you keep your passport, credit cards travellers checks etc. on you at all times, preferably in a money belt worn under your clothes. - Please note that this is a camping trip, and clients need to bring their own sleeping bag, and pillow if required. Sleeping Bags are available for hire (approx cost NZ$50 paid locally) but these must be requested prior to tour departure). TRAVEL TIP: You might be tempted to buy a few souvenirs here and there, so leave a little room for those extra purchases!!
Personal Effects:	We suggest that you take into account the time of year you will be travelling, and pack accordingly to the season. Quick drying clothes are recommended, and at many hotels and campsites there are laundry facilities. Your tour leader will advise where this is possible. Personal Effects: Camera & film, Spare passport photos, Water bottle, Money belt, Torch, Sewing kit, Sunhat/ Sunglasses, Music cassettes/CDs, Books, Wet Ones, Soap to wash clothes, Writing materials, Swiss Army knife, Calculator, Personal toiletries, including tampons, Contraceptives, Insect Repellent, Sunscreen
Books and Reading Material:	You might like to read up on the destinations that you are about to visit as these cities all have interesting sites and histories. We recommend a variety of guidebooks such as Lonely Planet, The Rough Guide and Insight Guides. All these publications have good general information as well as more specific country information that will help orientate you in the countries you visit.
Climate:	For detailed climate information see www.kumuka.com. Travel Tip: Always bring a lightweight, waterproof jacket and/or an umbrella even during the height of summer - this should prepare you for anything!
Time:	For detailed information see www.timezoneconverter.com or www.timeanddate.com
Acommodation:	Camping and Cabin Accommodation It's all about the outdoors and the best way to experience this is by staying next to these stunning environments in tents or cabins. We camp at carefully chosen locations to share with you some of New Zealand’s best places and a variety of experiences. The types of places we stay are beside beaches, lakes or rivers - there are no hostels or hotels in most of these places. New Zealand is an excellent place for camping and it’s a popular pastime with many Kiwis. The good news is there are no bears, snakes, large spiders or other animals that make take a fancy to you. Camp in fantastic locations The popularity of camping has helped to ensure that there are a huge number of well managed camp sites available from the remote DOC (Department of Conservation) camps to commercial camping grounds (sometimes referred to as motor camps), DOC camping grounds are ideal for those looking to get “beyond the tourist trail” and they operate over 120 campgrounds, often located in stunning spots near lakes, mountains and coasts. You will find facilities pretty basic but most sites have running cold water, toilets and fireplaces. Payment is on a first come, first served basis and you may also find cabin and huts available in many camps for a little extra. Commercial camps and holiday parks can be found throughout the country. Facilities are generally of a high standard with communal kitchens, dining areas and many with games and TV rooms. What makes camp sites in New Zealand so appealing is the excellent locations so look carefully, you can often end up with a view far beyond anything you could expect from a hostel room! The tour prices quoted are based on camping; this covers the “rental” of your space at the camp site and a shared tent. Cabin upgrade available If the weather turns grim or you need a break from the tent there are usually cabin or dorm type options in most camp sites. The cost to upgrade varies from approximately NZ$12 to $20 per night. We can pre book cabin accommodation for you at the time of booking if you want to secure a bed. There are a few nights depending on which trip you choose that have no cabin options. These are generally Department of Conservation camp sites but still have fresh water and toilet facilities. In the event of bad weather we generally avoid these sites. Tents Our hire tents are 3 person dome tents that are easy to erect. A shared tent is included in your price and we will work hard to match you with a suitable tent companion. If you fancy your own tent then for a small fee you can upgrade. We also include a comfortable foam mattress.
Cycle Options:	Cycle Options: There are a number of cycling options most days. Choose from a lazy few kilometres ahead of the bus in the morning, to an all day marathon over alpine passes for the keen. The distances literally range from 5km to 100km plus. We provide you with a cycle, helmet, repair kit, map and 0800 help me number. The guides will describe the terrain so you can make an informed decision. The bikes are in the main Specialized Hard Rock, 24 speed Mountain Bikes, great for the hills and the odd off road track that we may find. You can bring your own pedals if you have clip on bike shoes. Cost: Bike hire is completely optional. There are loads of walks and other activities for those not cycling. Usually around half the passengers hire cycles. A great way to get fit and get closer to the scenery. Bike hire works out from NZ$14 per day dependant on the length of the tour. Unfortunately we can not hire cycles by the day, but you can hire a bike for only part of your trip. Ask us about the options. You can bring your own bike for which we charge a Private Cycle Handing Fee - the cost of which is detailed on each tour. Grand Traverse Prices 2010/11: Cycle Hire: NZ$245 Private Cycle Handling: NZ$95 Please advise us at the time of booking should you wish to hire a bike, or if you plan on bringing your own bike.
Optionals:	Kumuka endeavors to advertise a compliment of optional activities available locally during tours with selected ground handlers to make your tour more enjoyable. These ground handlers and activity partners are selected for their standards in quality, professional ability and reputation. Although Kumuka has developed a travel insurance policy to cover all activities offered during your journey, Kumuka cannot be held responsible for injuries or claims arising from adventurous activities by a third party. Details and prices of optional activities will be confirmed by your tour leader. Below is a guide to options available on the tour, with a rough indication of price. Please note that all options are subject to avaiability, and prices are subject to change. Some activities are not available all year. Sailing Bay of Islands $85 Waka-Haruru Falls Bay of Islands $75 Treaty House $55 Sea Kayaking Bay of Islands $55 – ½ day / $75 – 1 day Cape Reinga $95 Diving Rainbow Warrior $205 Day in the Bay (of Islands) $115 Sandboarding $20 Sea Kayaking Coromandel $70 – ½ day Zorbing $50-$140 Taupo Skydive 12,000 ft - $220, 15,000 ft - $315 Taupo Bungy $100 Rock ‘n Rope $15 Giant Swing to $65 ½ day Transport Tongariro Crossing $15
Drug Policy:	Under no circumstances are any illegal drugs allowed on any part of the trip. Anyone discovered in possession of any such drugs, will be asked to leave the tour immediately without question or refund.
Staying in Touch:	Whilst on tour you will probably want to stay in touch with family and friends. There are several ways of doing this: Mobile Phone – Before departing your home country check with your phone supplier to see if it compatible with the mobile phone networks in the countries that you are traveling to, and how much will it cost to use abroad. Email – Internet Cafes are very cheap and popular, and you are sure to come across several during your tour. If you haven’t done so already, set up a free Google Mail, Hotmail, or Yahoo email account which you can then access from any computer. Internet Cafes will charge a nominal fee for using their computers. Within Europe some hotels charge a wifi connection fee and we cannot guarantee a wifi connection at all hotels we use. Twitter – A method of communication that is rapidly gaining in popularity on the Internet especially amongst travelers. Twitter allows you to send short messages and update your friends and family with where you are on tour and what you are doing. Create your free account at http://twitter.com. Visit Kumuka’s page on Twitter at http://twitter.com/kumuka Facebook – Very popular website that allows you to upload stories, get in touch with fellow travellers before and after your Kumuka tour, upload photos and videos to share with other travellers, your family and friends. To create a free account, go to www.facebook.com and then become a fan of Kumuka’s Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/pages/Kumuka-Worldwide/26617121087?ref=ts Postcards – The good ol’ fashioned postcard. But you will probably get home before the postcard does!
Tour Feedback:	Tour Questionnaire - We would like to hear about your experiences on tour. One week after your tour ends you will automatically receive a feedback questionnaire via email. If we do not have your email address you can still complete a questionnaire by visiting www.kumuka.com/feedback Email - If you have any specific comments about your tour then please write to us by email to operations@kumuka.com
Contact Details:	KUMUKA WORLDWIDE UK OFFICE Hillswood Business Park 3000 Hillswood Drive Chertsey KT16 0RS Tel: +4420 7937 8855 Fax: +442075043782 Email: sales@kumuka.com www.kumuka.com AUSTRALIAN OFFICE Level 5, 387 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000 Tel: 02 9279 0491 Fax: 02 9279 0492 Email: sales@kumuka.com.au www.kumuka.com.au
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This tour is operated by Kumuka Worldwide. Information given in all brochures, leaflets and dossiers is given in good faith by the company, and is based on the latest information available at the date of publication. The company reserves the right to change any of the facilities or vehicles described in the brochure without becoming liable for compensation or refund.

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