Highlights |
Independent Package Includes
- Flights LAX-Auckland-Christchurch-LAX
- Intra-flight
- Airline fuel surcharges
- 6 nights accommodations
- 3 nights Auckland
- 3 nights Christchurch
- Breakfast daily
Also Available
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Optionals |
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Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling cost at least 10% more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure.
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| Half Day Auckland City Tour (NZA5) 8:45 AM |
Day #3 |
01 Jan 2010 - 31 Dec 2010 $39
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This morning enjoy an Auckland city sights tour. You will be able to see why Auckland is known as the ‘City of Sails” as you travel over the Auckland Harbour Bridge. Visit the famous Auckland landmark of Mount Eden, a dormant volcano whose summit offers excellent panoramic views of the city and harbours. From this fantastic vantage point you will see evidence of Auckland’s volcanic history, the most significant being the youngest volcano of Rangitoto Island at the entrance to the Waitemata harbour. The sightseeing tour also takes in the Auckland Domain, the city’s oldest park which is situated on a 62,000 year old volcano. In addition to these natural features the city sights tour takes you down the trendy shopping area of Parnell Village with its historic buildings that have been transformed into boutiques, antique, craft and specialty shops. Lastly you will journey along the scenic waterfront route of Tamaki Drive before returning to Downtown.
Pick-up from hotel 1 hour prior to departure.
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| America's Cup Sailing Experience (NZA2) 2:00 PM |
Day #3 |
01 Jan 2010 - 31 Dec 2010 $89
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The America’s Cup is the world’s oldest and most prestigious sporting trophy and ultimate yachting regatta. Join us for an unforgettable two hours sailing. A unique opportunity to participate as crew on an actual America’s Cup yacht. Take the helm, exert energy on the grinders OR simply sit back and enjoy the ride as we sail the beautiful Waitemata Harbour. Participate as crew or sit back and relax. No experience necessary.
Times may vary due to tide conditions.
Flat, rubber soled shoes, Sun glasses, hat, sunblock and layered clothing are suggested.
Departs from Explore NZ office in Viaduct Harbour – opposite Cargo Restaurant. Please report 30 minutes prior to departure.
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| Full Day Coast & Rainforest Walk (NZA7) 10:00 AM |
Day #4 |
01 Jan 2010 - 30 Sep 2010 $116
01 Oct 2010 - 30 Dec 2010 $128
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Today’s full day excursion first stop is at the Arataki Visitor Information Centre situated within Auckland’s largest Regional Park, Waitakere Ranges Regional Park. The breathtaking panoramic views from the sweeping decks extend from the Tasman Sea to the Pacific Ocean. Absorb the area’s history and admire the magnificent traditional Maori carvings that stand guard there. Continue further west to the wild and rugged west coast where you get to experience the isolation area. The guides will walk you through an area of Auckland’s coastal rainforest where they explain the local flora and fauna with its giant ferns growing alongside picturesque streams. You will have the opportunity to stroll on an awe-inspiring beach and experience the uniqueness of the black sand and the clear ocean breeze. Your journey will take you to an area of untouched original rainforest with mature 1000 year old kauri trees. Included in tour is a picnic lunch.
Comfortable Walking Shoes & suitable outdoor clothing are suggested.
Pick-up from hotel 30 minutes prior to departure.
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| Discover Christchurch Tour (NZC4) 9:00 AM |
Day #7 |
01 Dec 2009 - 31 Dec 2010 $33
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This morning or afternoon, enjoy a Christchurch city sights tour. We will be covering the central city highlights, including Cathedral Square, Victoria Square, Thomas Edmonds former band rotunda and the Avon River, Town Hall, the floral clock, Law Courts, Provincial Chambers, Christ's College, Museum, Botanical Gardens, Arts Centre, Worcester Boulevard, and the Bridge of Remembrance. On leaving the inner city, the tour includes several parks and gardens including Mona Vale Gardens and Hagley Park. The tour then moves on to Riccarton House, Riccarton Bush, and the University of Canterbury. We then travel to the Sign of the Takahe, an historic building providing spectacular views over the city, Canterbury Plains and to the Southern Alps. The tour concludes with a drop off in the central city or a return to the original pickup points.
Pick-up from hotel 30 minutes prior to departure.
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| Christchurch Tramway with dinner (NZC5) 7:30 PM |
Day #7 |
01 Dec 2009 - 31 Dec 2010 $50
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Christchurch is famous for its fabulous dining, entertainment, breath-taking scenery and cultural heritage. Combine all of the above on board the Christchurch Tramway Restaurant, where dining is not only a culinary delight but also a trip back into history. We invite you to sit back in the luxury of our air-conditioned, colonial style, dining tram and be treated to the finest service, cuisine and beverages that New Zealand has to offer.
Please be at the tram station tram stop, Cathedral Junction 30 minutes prior to departure
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| Day Trip to Kaikoura (NZC3) 7:30 AM |
Day #8 |
01 Dec 2009 - 31 Dec 2010 $185
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Spend your day getting close to nature. Travel by road through the rolling hill country of North Canterbury, enjoying the beauty of its rural pastoral scenes, to Kaikoura where mountains meet sea. Kaikoura is world renowned for the variety of marine mammals which can be seen, not least of all the giant sperm whales and the acrobatic Dusk Dolphins. On your arrival in Kaikoura you will be transferred to a whale watch tour by boat. In the afternoon you will visit a seal colony where fur seals may be viewed at close quarters. On your return to Christchurch a stop will be made at a North Canterbury vineyard where a wine tasting has been arranged.
Pick-up from hotel 30 minutes prior to departure.
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Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling cost at least 10% more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure.
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Rates & Hotels |
Step 1: Select Your Choice of Hotel Plans Step 2: Click a Date to Book Online
OR: Click here to create your own flexible vacation
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*Not Included:
Airport taxes & fees, transfers, optional tours, and gratuities.
Entry Requirements:
US citizens require a passport valid for six months beyond travel dates.
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| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. | |
| Passports and Visas | It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies.
| | Trip Preparation | A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you will need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas) are in order and that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement.
| | Health Information | Check with your personal physician for the latest overseas travel health information, or contact the Center for Disease Control’s travelers’ hotline at 404-332-4559, web site www.cdc.gov.
| | Climate & Clothing | New Zealand - In New Zealand the seasons are reversed compared to the United States. Spring: September – November; Summer: December – February; Fall: March – May; Winter: June – August
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather coat.
New Zealand Average Temperatures: http://www.gate1travel.com/weather/asia-pacific/default.aspx#nz-australia-weather
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| E-Tickets & Check-In Procedures |
Please review the flight itinerary included in these documents. Print and carry a copy of the air itinerary which contains the record locator (airline reservation number) and e-ticket number(s). At check-in, be prepared to provide your government issued identification (valid passport) and your e-ticket itinerary/ ticket numbers to the agent in order to receive your boarding pass.
An e-ticket (electronic ticket) represents the purchase of an airline seat. This form of ticket has replaced almost all formerly provided paper tickets. The e-ticket exists only as a digital record in the airlines computers. In most cases your reservation will be confirmed solely on the basis of your government-issued identification. However it may still be necessary to present the e-ticket itinerary which contains your specific reservation code and ticket number(s). Once confirmed, your luggage will be checked-in and a boarding pass provided.
Advance online check-in is available on some airlines. If available, you may enter your airline confirmation number at the airline's website, and print the boarding pass on your home printer within twenty-four hours of departure. Airlines without advance online check-in require you to present your identification and e-ticket numbers at the airport self-service kiosk or check-in counter.
When e-tickets cannot be issued, you will receive paper tickets.
If your tour program includes foreign domestic flights, and those tickets are not included together with the e-ticket itinerary in these documents, a separate voucher(s) confirming those services will be included. You will receive those tickets at your destination from a Gate 1 representative.
| | Airline Flights | Please check in at least three hours prior to the scheduled departure time to allow for security steps. Passengers connecting from another point within the USA may check their luggage through to their final destination, and although problems with lost luggage have been minimal, it is a possibility. Certain carriers do not allow baggage “interlining,” and luggage must be checked separately for each flight. If you are connecting from a domestic flight which is delayed for any reason, causing you to miss your international flight, you must ask the airline for assistance in getting you to your destination. Since all airline tickets are issued on special fares which carry restrictions and penalties if changed, you must have the airlines responsible make alternate arrangements on your behalf as Gate 1 has no authority or control over airline activities and policies. Do not leave the airline check-in desk until an alternative itinerary has been confirmed for you.
Flight schedule changes are common and may occur anytime until departure. Therefore it is the responsibility of each passenger to reconfirm their flights 72 hours prior to departure for all flights.
| | Airline Luggage Restrictions | Most international airlines are consistent with regard to the number and weight of the pieces you may check and bring onboard. Domestic carriers however, typically on small aircraft, differ. Therefore, we suggest that you check in advance if you are concerned about size or weight restrictions. Many airlines have begun to apply charges for checked bags. Please contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information regarding your airline's checked baggage policies. Airline policies vary and may change at any time. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for any excess luggage/ weight charges levied by an airline.
| | Airline Seats | Airline seats are confirmed whenever possible. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only. Even when seats are pre-assigned however, we recommend that you contact the carrier one to two weeks prior to departure to reconfirm your seats. In many cases there are equipment changes after your initial booking which can cause airplane seating reconfiguration.
| | Airline Tickets | Most airline tickets are issued using special fares which cannot be changed or canceled without incurring additional cost. Should you lose or misplace your tickets while traveling, you should immediately notify the airline. In most cases they will have you complete a Lost Ticket Indemnity Form, and for a fee, issue replacement tickets.
| | Code-share Flights | Many airlines participate in alliances and special agreements with other airlines which permit passengers to travel from one point to another using more than one carrier. While your ticket may indicate that you are flying with one carrier (eg: Delta), you may find that you are actually seated in a plane belonging to another carrier (eg: Alitalia). Please review your airline itinerary carefully to determine which airline you should go to for check-in; if your flight is operated by a carrier other than the primary airline indicated on the itinerary, your itinerary will state "Flight Operated by (Airline)." If you have any concerns regarding which airline to check-in with, you may contact the airline directly or Gate 1 Travel for clarification.
| | Luggage | All Gate 1 tour packages allow one piece of luggage per person, plus carry-on bag. Additional baggage will be subject to airline handling charges of up to $100 per piece. As Gate 1 will not be responsible for loss or damage to luggage and personal belongings, you MUST report any loss or damage immediately at the time of the incident and obtain a written report from the local authority for submission to your insurance provider. If your luggage is lost or damaged by the airlines, a baggage claim form MUST be filed with the carrier before leaving the airport. See www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx for Important Baggage Information for U.S. Travelers.
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| Arrival Procedures | Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher.
| | What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed | Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, overseas or in the USA, the better we can respond. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon your return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services.
| | Departure Procedures | If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally.
| | Transfers | Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date.
Escorted tour programs include transfers, providing you have purchased airfare from Gate 1 to arrive and depart on the scheduled tour dates. If you are traveling independently, you may purchase the transfers from Gate 1 or contract your own method of transportation to the hotel or cruise ship. The cost of a transfer will generally be more expensive than hiring a taxi as the pre-arranged transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or a 'dead-leg'. Additionally the driver may have to wait at the collection point for up to an hour.
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| Hotels | Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard rooms with two single beds and private facilities, unless you have specifically requested and paid for an upgrade. Room selection is strictly at the discretion of the hotel management. We reserve the right to make hotel substitutions with those of equal standard.
| | Hotel Check-in/ Check-out | Check-in time is usually 4pm or later. Check-out time is 12 noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later.
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| Eco & Sustainable Tourism | We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel to and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs.
| | Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) | Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for checkin. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents.
| | Shopping | Shopping in a foreign country can be a wonderful experience. We do include a few stops at recommended popular shops on every escorted tour, intended to enhance your cultural experience. As you explore the country independently, you may find fantastic, one-of-a-kind merchandise. You may get terrific bargains. However, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is!
| New Zealand - Stores are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Some are open on Saturday and Sunday, as well. New Zealand is known for crafts such as Maori carvings and abalone shell jewelry. Many fine handmade wool products can also be found.
| | Currency | We suggest getting a small amount of currency for the first country you're visiting before you leave the U.S. It is a good idea to carry a chart with you to help you convert U.S. dollars to the local currency. It's also a good idea not to carry too much money. Many countries have ATM machines that accept most U.S. ATM cards, but be sure you know your ATM password in numbers-the keypads on foreign ATMs don't always have letters. ATM machines will only dispense cash in local currency. Check with respective consulates to learn current currency allowances and requirements. Use your credit card whenever possible. Should you decide to carry cash or travelers checks, exchange them at banks where the rate is more favorable than at hotels or exchange bureaus. Please note that many banks and most vendors will not accept or exchange $100 bills. We suggest to carry $20 bills or smaller.
| New Zealand - The New Zealand Dollar is the currency of New Zealand.
| | Purchasing Tours Locally | On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them. Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below. This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. http://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional
| | Credit Cards | While credit cards are accepted in most destinations, it is advisable to carry local currency. Inform your credit card company that you are traveling to avoid your card being blocked for security reasons.
| | Gratuities | This is a matter of personal discretion. You may use the following as a guideline:
- Tour escort (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide):
$6 or $7 per person per day
- Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage):
$3 per person per day
- Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program):
$2 per person per half day of sightseeing (2-3 hours)
- River Cruises:
$6 or $7 per person per day as indicated by each cruise line (see details regarding European River Cruises)
- Hotel Porter:
$1 per bag per person
- Wait staff:
$1.50 per person (lunch or dinner)
Tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour escort or phone our local office. Numbers have been provided in your documents for your convenience.
| New Zealand - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists.
| | Your Safety is Very Important | Every effort has been taken by Gate 1 Travel to ensure your safety. However, it is important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while you're on your trip. Be aware of potentially dangerous places and situations as you would at home. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and carry your valuables concealed in inside pockets or hidden pouches. Don't put all your valuables (money, credit cards, passports, etc.) in the same place. (In case that one wallet is stolen, you should have other valuables and identification in another safe place.) Don't leave valuables laying loose in your room-use the hotel safe. Keep copies of your passports, credit card numbers and travelers checks numbers in the hotel safe. If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities.
| | Local Emergency Phone Numbers | New Zealand
| | Languages | New Zealand - English is the local language.
| | Electricity | Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances.
| New Zealand - The voltage used is 220 volts.
| | Code of Conduct | New Zealand - Shaking hands is the standard greeting and normal courtesies should be observed. Referring to Australia as the “mainland” is considered derogatory and should be avoided. When in Maori areas, try to be sensitive to cultural concerns.
| | Holidays - New Zealand |
| Holidays 2010 |
| Jan 1 - 2 |
New Year's Day (2 day holiday) |
| Feb 6 |
Waitangi Day |
Apr 2 |
Good Friday |
Apr 4 |
Easter |
Apr 5 |
Easter Monday |
Jun 7 |
Queen's Birthday |
Oct 25 |
Labor Day |
Dec 25 |
Christmas Day |
Dec 26 |
Boxing Day |
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| Food and Meals | As specified in each itinerary. Meals are based on the hotel's or restaurant's buffet or set menu. In general, beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although Gate 1 cannot make guarantees, every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests submitted in writing at least 72 hours prior to departure to info@gate1travel.com.
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