This morning we depart Auckland on the Northern Explorer. Experience the extremes of NZs scenery from the fertile farmlands of Waikato to the volcanic peaks of the Central Plateau and the sparkling Kapiti Coast. Enjoy the guided audio commentary, open-air viewing deck and a great selection of food and beverages from the dining car. 

On our arrival in Wellington we’re transported to the James Cook hotel and enjoy a beautiful buffet dinner in the hotel restaurant.

Dinner

Leaving the busy city life behind us, we depart Wellington for 5-nights at the Copthorne Hotel in Masterton. This hotel is set on 24 acres of gardens and native bush. You can unpack your bags and enjoy the wonderful facilities inclusive of swimming pools, bush walks and a driving range. 

On getting to Masterton, you have the option to either travel by coach with our driver over the Remutaka’s or board the local train to Featherston and travel through the 12th longest tunnel in the Southern Hemisphere (8,798 metres long). On our arrival to Featherston, we visit the famous Fell Engine Museum – hear about the fascinating history of the Remutaka Rail, watch a short movie and enjoy morning tea. Then as we travel on to Masterton, we stop in Greytown, where you can enjoy the well preserved Victorian main street with shops, cafes, galleries and artisans at work. Dinner tonight is in the hotel.

Breakfast, Dinner

This morning we enjoy a leisurely start to the day before traveling to Carterton. We visit Stonehenge Aotearoa – the brainchild of Richard Hall and members of the Phoenix Astronomical Society. Here, we take a tour into the past and unlock the mysteries of the earth and sky which formed a cornerstone to the rise of civilization. Lunch is just a short drive away at the award-winning Union Square Bistro at the historic Martinborough Hotel circa 1880’s. Here, we’ll be treated to a stunning high tea lunch by Michelin Star Chef Adam Newell. Our high tea menu includes delicious mini pastries, club sandwiches and other treats served with the perfect “cuppa” and a glass of bubbles. Let’s indulge… its Christmas after all! 

Back at the hotel, enjoy some time to yourselves before another indulgent dinner at a surprise destination.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We enjoy another leisurely start to the day before heading off to a fun and informative 1-hour guided tour through The Wool Shed, housed in two century old woolsheds this is home to the Golden Shears competition. Afterwards, we depart for a picnic lunch at Castle Point – this rugged settlement was Wairarapa’s original port and a significant link in the chain of the early wool trade until the early 20th century. Walk the board walks to the lighthouse, watch local fishermen or bring your togs for a swim. Tonight, Christmas Eve dinner is in the hotel.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Merry Christmas one and all!

This morning we drive to Cape Palliser – the southernmost point of the North Island and is home to the largest native fur seal colony in New Zealand. On our way, we pass Lake Onoke and Ngawi fishing village and take-in the dramatic, rugged coastline. The cast iron Cape Palliser lighthouse has stood on the cliffs since 1897 – and she’s still shining strong. If your fitness allows, you can choose to climb the 253 stairs to see her up close. The views from the top are magnificent and once back at the bottom you can celebrate your achievement with a sumptuous picnic lunch and a glass of bubbles!

Back at our “home away from home” spend time relaxing before getting your glad rags on for Santa and a delicious Christmas buffet (with a few surprises added in).

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Savour a well-deserved rest this morning with a late start to our day. A trip to the Wairarapa wouldn’t be complete without a vineyard lunch… so we’ve chosen a Martinborough Vineyard for a beautiful plattered shared lunch. Sit back, relax and enjoy stunning food and ambience all topped off with a glass of local wine. Dinner tonight (if you're hungry) is at the hotel.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, we farewell the beautiful Wairarapa and leave Christmas behind us. We drive to the Chateau Tongariro for our final night together. We stop at the National Army Museum in Waiouru before going to the Rustic Eating House for lunch (winners of My Restaurant Rules 2019). Dinner tonight is at the beautiful Chateau Tongariro.

Breakfast, Dinner

All good things must come to an end as we head home but not before having the opportunity to travel in the new Sky Waka at Mt Ruapehu (optional extra). This was a highlight of our Mid-Winter Christmas Tour. The views from the top are magnificent and what a great way to end your holiday and 2020 with Seemore Tours.

Breakfast