Itinerary

Day 1 of PRE-TRIP EXTENSION Depart the U.S. and begin your flight over the Pacific Ocean

The particulars of your arrival overseas are detailed with your flight itinerary and airline tickets.

Day 2 of PRE-TRIP EXTENSION In flight to Sydney

Flying from the USA to Sydney requires crossing the International Date Line, so this day is “lost.”

Day 3 of PRE-TRIP EXTENSION Arrive Sydney

Upon arrival at the Sydney International Airport, transfer via a KST Sydney Airporter Bus to your hotel (approximately 45 minutes). VBT has confirmed your reservations and vouchers are not needed for the bus. After you have collected your luggage, please use a public phone and dial the toll free number 1 800 33 00 55. This number will connect you with the KST Sydney Airporter dispatch office. They will provide instructions on where to meet your airport representative or direct you to where you will meet your transfer to your hotel. Important: U.S. citizens must have a visa to enter Australia; this has been arranged by VBT's Air Department. All you need to carry are your air tickets and your valid U.S. passport.

VBT provides you with a City Information Packet that includes information and recommendations on what to see and do in Sydney during your stay.

Please note: VBT transfer times and departure points are finalized in advance and cannot be modified for individual guests.

Day 1 of AIR PACKAGE Depart U.S.

You depart from the U.S. for Christchurch. The particulars of your arrival are detailed with your flight itinerary and airline tickets.

Day 4 of PRE-TRIP EXTENSION Independent exploration of Sydney

Sydney provides an abundance of activities for the adventurer, the shopper and the nature lover. You have plenty of time to explore the city, visit the Sydney Opera House, board the City Circle train to the historic district, or take a day trip to the Blue Mountains.

This is an independent extension.

Day 2 of AIR PACKAGE In flight to Christchurch

Flying from the U.S. to New Zealand requires crossing the International Date Line, so this day is “lost.”

Day 5 of PRE-TRIP EXTENSION Independent exploration of Sydney

Spend another day discovering Sydney.

Day 3 of AIR PACKAGE Arrive in Christchurch

Upon arrival at the Christchurch airport, gather your luggage at the international baggage collection area and proceed toward the main exit past the International Free phone area. Around the corner, look for the Super Shuttle vehicle. It will be parked in the International Shuttle Rank on your left. Use it to transfer (approximately 30 minutes) to the Chateau on the Park in Christchurch. If your flight is delayed, please notify Super Shuttle at 64 9 522 5100. Once you arrive at the hotel, the rest of the day is yours to relax or explore.

Your hotel room may not be available until 2 p.m. You may store your luggage with the reception desk. VBT provides you with a City Information Packet that includes information and recommendations on what to see and do in Christchurch during your stay.

Please note: VBT transfer times and departure points are finalized in advance and cannot be modified for individual guests. If you fly in earlier than the scheduled program dates, transportation from the airport will be at your own expense.

Day 6 of PRE-TRIP EXTENSION Fly to Christchurch/Join VBT Air Package guests

KST Sydney Airporter Bus transports you from the Sebel Pier One to the airport for your flight from Sydney to Christchurch. Please verify with the front desk the pick-up time for your transfer to the airport. VBT Air Package guests will arrive in Christchurch throughout the day.

Upon arrival at the Christchurch airport, after you have gathered your luggage at the international baggage collection area, proceed toward the main exit past the International Free phone area. Around the corner, look for the Super Shuttle vehicle. It will be parked in the International Shuttle Rank on your left. Use it to transfer (approximately 30 minutes) to Chateau on the Park in Christchurch. If your flight is delayed, please notify Super Shuttle at 64 9 522 5100. Once you arrive at the hotel, the rest of the day is yours to relax or explore.

Your hotel room may not be available until 2 p.m.; you may store your luggage with the reception desk. Upon check-in, you will receive an information packet containing suggestions and transportation options for visiting Christchurch and getting acquainted with the area.

VBT Air Package guests arrive throughout the day.

Day 1 of BIKE TOUR All guests meet at Christchurch/Warm-up ride/Welcome reception

VBT No-Air Package guests: Please plan to arrive at your Christchurch hotel by late morning. If you are unable to arrive before 12 p.m., please contact VBT during regular business hours (Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., ET), at 800-245-3868, to inform us of your arrival time, or contact the hotel on the day the tour begins to let the Trip Leaders and/or hotel know when you will arrive.

VBT Air and Pre-Trip Extension guests: You are free to explore Christchurch's museums and botanical gardens on your own after breakfast.

Lunch is on your own, then meet your VBT Trip Leaders at 12 p.m. at the hotel for a safety and bike-fitting session, followed by a warm-up ride and a welcome reception. Trip Leaders will be wearing VBT staff garments. Dine with the group at the hotel tonight.

Day 2 of BIKE TOUR Cross Southern Alps by train/ Cycle to the seaside town of Hokitika

After an early breakfast, shuttle with your Trip Leaders to the Christchurch train station. We board the 8:15 a.m. TranzAlpine Express for a breathtaking ride through the dramatic Arthur's Pass, a small township in the Southern Alps, to the sleepy fishing village of Jacksons. Our train passes through the Canterbury Plains and traverses the gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River.

Enjoy a pub lunch in Jacksons. From here we begin cycling through open farmland to Lake Brunner, followed by a shuttle to Hokitika. Hokitika boomed with gold-rush fever, and the main street once housed more than 80 hotels. Today there are only six.

This evening, you have free time to enjoy dinner on your own. Later, you might take a walk along the beach and look skyward for the Southern Cross, a constellation that can be seen year-round, but only from the Southern Hemisphere. The Southern Cross contains four bright stars that depict the extremities of a Latin cross. It is easily located because of the stars' brightness and proximity to one another.

Day 3 of BIKE TOUR Cycle Westland National Park/ Discover Franz Josef Glacier

This morning, visit the Greenstone Jade Factory, featuring carvings from this beautiful native stone. Then shuttle to Ross, where we begin cycling toward Westland National Park and Franz Josef Glacier. The park covers an expanse of towering mountains and glaciers, dramatic waterfalls and icy, gray-blue rivers that tumble down to the Tasman Sea. A rolling ride through this beautiful forest takes us to a picnic lunch under a covered shelter beside the historic Puke Pub in Pukekura. The Pub serves award-winning “Wild Foods” (including possum pate, venison, rabbit and others). After lunch, we continue cycling to Hari Hari. Spend free time in town before shuttling back to the hotel, where you can freshen up before dinner.

Day 4 of BIKE TOUR - DISCOVERY DAY! Optional hike on Franz Josef Glacier/Cycle to Okarito with hiking and kayaking options

After breakfast, we have a free day to choose from a variety of optional pursuits. Head to Franz Josef Glacier for an exhilarating hike, or embark on a guided heli-hiking adventure (both options at your own expense). If you prefer, remain in Franz Josef to shop and explore the town. In the afternoon, cycle to Okarito Lagoon, a rich wildlife haven noted for its unspoiled beaches. Here you can find more than 70 species of birds. Experience the lagoon up close during an optional hike or kayaking excursion. Tonight, dinner is on your own at one of the many wonderful local restaurants.

Day 5 of BIKE TOUR Cycle in the heart of Westland

A morning shuttle brings us over a scenic pass to Fox Glacier, where we pedal through native New Zealand rainforest along the Tasman Sea. Enjoy lunch at a salmon farm, and then continue on to the Wilderness Lodge Lake Moeraki. Surrounded by a thriving 1,000-year-old rainforest and pristine seacoast, the lodge's location is perfect for outdoor exploration and activity, or just relaxing and taking in the wonders of nature. The owner of the lodge, Dr. Gerry McSweeney, is the former president of the New Zealand Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society, the country's largest environmental organization. The lodge is committed to the protection of the environment. Dinner is in the lodge's dining room, which overlooks the wilderness area.

Later, you may wish to join your lodge host for a walk on the grounds to view a colony of glowworms!

Day 6 of BIKE TOUR - DISCOVERY DAY! Explore Lake Moeraki

After breakfast, we spend a free day participating in optional outdoor activities provided by the Wilderness Lodge, including kayaking or hiking through the unspoiled rainforest. Your trip price includes two shorter guided activities of 60-90 minutes, including the rainforest, bird and tree fern walks, freshwater life/giant eel feeding, canoe instruction on the river and lake, night sky walks, and historical talks. Additional activities may incur extra costs. After a day of exploration and lunch on your own, rejoin the group for dinner at the lodge.

Day 7 of BIKE TOUR Cycle through the Haast River Valley and enjoy a local homestay

Take a brief shuttle along the dramatic cliffs above the Tasman Sea. We stop at the Haast Visitor's Center; from there, cycle beside the clear blue Haast River as you travel east toward Haast Pass. Descend into the Makarora River Valley and ride through Mt. Aspiring National Park. Spend the night at a local homestay and enjoy Kiwi hospitality and a home-cooked meal.

Day 8 of BIKE TOUR Cycle through the Otago region to Queenstown

This morning we cycle along the Clutha River, lifeblood of the Otago region, to the historic town of Cromwell. Stop at a local pottery shop, featured in New Zealand House and Garden magazine, for a picnic lunch in its garden. Step into the shop while your picnic is being prepared to see wonderful pottery. Then head to Queenstown, via the shuttle van, with an optional stop at A.J. Hackett Bungy at Kawarau Bridge — home of the original, 130-foot-high bungy jump! Once at the hotel, you have free time on your own before a group farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 9 of BIKE TOUR Depart for U.S. or begin your optional trip extension in Queenstown

VBT No-Air Package guests: You are responsible for your own transfer arrangements to the airport. The hotel's Elements Restaurant opens at 6:00 am for any guests with early departure flights.

VBT Air Package guests: Transfer from the hotel by Super Shuttle to the Queenstown Airport 2½ hours prior to your scheduled flight departure time. (This transfer is included in your package.) The Elements Restaurant opens at 6:00 am for any guests with early departure flights.

VBT Post-Trip Extension guests: If you have chosen the optional Post-Trip Extension, enjoy one of the many optional activities available in Queenstown. Perhaps you'll join an excursion to the breathtaking Milford Sound, a thrilling jet-boat ride through the Shotover River Canyons, a pleasant Lake Wakatipu cruise on the S.S. Earnslaw to a sheep station, or a scenic gondola ride. After a full day of exploration, relax at the hotel this evening. Dinner is on your own tonight.

Please note: VBT transfer times and departure points are finalized in advance and cannot be modified for individual guests. If you extend your stay beyond the scheduled program dates, return transportation to the airport will be at your own expense.

Day 2 of POST-TRIP EXTENSION Independent Exploration of Queenstown

Continue your explorations of Queenstown and its many adrenaline-filled activities. Dinner is on your own tonight.

Day 3 POST-TRIP EXTENSION Queenstown Extension Concludes/Depart for U.S.

At the end of your extension, transfer by Super Shuttle from the hotel to the Queenstown Airport 2½ hours prior to your scheduled flight departure time. (This transfer is included in your package.)

Please note: VBT transfer times and departure points are finalized in advance and cannot be modified for individual guests. If you extend your stay beyond the scheduled program dates, return transportation to the airport will be at your own expense.

New Zealand: The South Island 2012

Pre and Post Trip Extensions

Pre-Trip Extension

Sydney 2012 - 3 nights for only $795

Discover Australia’s largest and oldest city and its famed harbor. Here, you will find an abundance of activities for the adventurer, the shopper and the nature lover. Visit the Sydney Opera House, the most prominent architectural structure in all of Sydney, see the sights in the downtown “city business district” or board the City Circle train to the historic entertainment district, The Rocks. Explore the botanical gardens, ride a ferry around the harbor or take a day trip to the Blue Mountains.

Available only with the Air Inclusive Package.

Note: Single supplement for this extension is $295.

Post-Trip Extension

Queenstown 2012 - 2 nights for only $245

Adding extra days in Queenstown to your Air Package will allow you to have more time to enjoy all that the adventure center of the universe has to offer! Watch or try optional daredevil activities including bungy jumping, parasailing, hiking, rafting, jet boating and more -- available at your own expense. Take optional excursions to Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound; coach excursions require the entire day (7 a.m. to 7 p.m.) and flying options require 4 - 6 hours. Shop, walk through stunning gardens or take an optional steamship cruise.

Available only with the Air Inclusive Package.

Note: Single supplement for this extension is $145.

Accommodations

Sebel Pier One

Sydney’s first over-water hotel is a 1912 restored heritage finger wharf that extends into Sydney Harbor in the famous Rocks district. (The Rocks is the entertainment zone between the Sydney Harbor Bridge and the Opera House.) Its architecture spectacularly blends contemporary design and local tradition. Design features include a glass-floored lobby that allows guests to gaze down into the waters of Sydney Harbor, and stunning guest rooms with original wooden beams, steel trusses and contemporary lifestyle furnishings. It has received the Australian Hotels Association Award for Excellence as Best Superior Hotel of the Year.

Chateau on the Park

A Unique Escape - Nestled in 5 acres of beautiful and tranquil gardens, the 193 room Chateau on the Park seems a world away from the stresses of city life. Yet just minutes from this secluded retreat is the sparkling city of Christchurch New Zealand. The Chateau on the Park is a resort style hotel nestled between Hagley Park and the beautiful historic home and gardens of Mona Vale, just minutes from the centre of Christchurch. Set among 5 acres of beautifully maintained gardens, the hotel offers tranquility and seclusion that you would normally expect to find miles from a city.

Beachfront Hotel

This seaside hotel on the West Coast has been in the same family for 120 years, making for a unique experience of true hospitality. Its location offers the best of two worlds: in the center of a historic gold-mining town, charming streets are right outside your door for strolling. And since it overlooks the Tasman Sea, the beach is your backyard, and its comfortable restaurant and bar offer great ocean views.

Franz Josef Glacier Country Retreat

Franz Josef Glacier Country Retreat is the quietest and most scenically located property in Glacier Country. Only a few miles north of Franz Josef Glacier, the Retreat’s luxury rooms offer magnificent views of the surrounding snowcapped mountains or lake. During your stay, enjoy the spa-style bathroom and open barbecue pit. In the café, relax with tea, coffee, and fresh-baked goods. Your room features Sky TV, DVD, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, en-suite bathrooms, balconies, and a mini bar with fridge.

Wilderness Lodge, Lake Moeraki

Owned by local ecologists, this riverside nature-lover’s paradise is set amid the rainforest of South Westland. The luxury lodge is landscaped into the rainforest with lawns flowing down to the river’s edge, where there are jumping trout, waterbirds and stunning reflections. View them all from the Riverside Restaurant and Lounge, where you can relax, read, enjoy a drink from the wine cellar and enjoy great wilderness food.

Lake Hawea Station Homestay

Our VBT group is split up between several homestays during our visit. There are local sheep stations (when available) with opportunity for guests to learn about the daily life of a New Zealander. Each homestay offers well-appointed rooms in a B&B setting with lush gardens and swimming pools. And each offers fantastic views in the heart of the mountainous lake country within the Mount Aspiring National Park.

Novotel Queenstown Lakeside

Centrally located in one of the most picturesque settings in the world, Novotel Queenstown Lakeside is nestled beside the beautiful, tranquil Wakatipu Lake on which Queenstown sits. All rooms offer balconies with views of The Remarkables Mountain Range. This fresh, modern hotel offers guests superb, uninterrupted views of the lake, mountains and adjoining gardens. Novotel Queenstown Lakeside also features an excellent restaurant and bar.

Rating Level

Easy/Moderate

This tour offers a combination of easy terrain mixed with moderate hills and is ideal for beginning and experienced cyclists. The VBT van support shuttle is always available for those who need assistance.