Auckland, New Zealand
Auckland, city of Sails is part of a Small group tour of New Zealand for mature and senior travellers with your partner or as a solo traveller. Explore and learn about Rotorua, Wellington or Te Anau whilst you are visiting.
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Odyssey Traveller is pleased to introduce our new small group s of New Zealand for seniors and mature travellers, focusing on the s of the and the . Our is for up to 10 people, typically mature and senior travellers joining as a couple or as a solo traveller . These Maori culture, and landscapes of the and of New Zealand. Our itinerary for this gets off the beaten track into parts of New Zealand many do not explore. Away from the likes of a popular such as the Hollyford track, or the . will guide travellers through the history,
For many visitors, the , gets all the attention, with the big tourist draws of Franz Josef , and historic . But dig deeper and you'll find that New Zealand's has as much to offer, including the beautiful Bay of Islands , Poor Knights Island, White Island, and Waiheke Island, the bird sanctuary of Tiritiri Matangi , the Art Deco of Hawke's Bay, alpine , and the glow worm caves in the Waitomo Caves complex. Odyssey's tours have an itinerary with a on both islands as well as .
This small group of New Zealand is limited to a maximum of 10 people. (You can book this program as a private group with a minimum of 4 people)
Our getting fit for a walking tour. tours of New Zealand for seniors between 8 to 20km each guided day walking (tramping) has been organised. This has an itinerary that is a blended collection a and a reasonable in a diversity of settings with a as a collection. We have a collection of articles for
They are that have monthly departures from late September to late April each year.
The arrival of Europeans - mostly British settlers - in New Zealand set in motion a startling and ultimately largely successful co-existence with the Maori people. Both Maori traditional owners and new settlers had to come to terms with the fiercely disparate environments and climates found through New Zealand , from the subtropical north to the alpine south. This is the route we will follow on this . Heading North from we transfer up to the Bay of Islands , to begin this then tracking south through and south to the . Your small group of New Zealand spends the day walking the Alpine Crossing a great outdoor through stunning landscapes of the volcanic peaks in the . A walking that is regarded as a in the world. The is a World Heritage site which has the distinction of dual status, as it has been acknowledged for both its natural and cultural significance. The crossing passes over the volcanic terrain of the multi-cratered active volcano Mount , passing the eastern base of Mount Ngauruhoe . The following day Odyssey's tours of New Zealand small group takes a flight to Queenstown, New Zealand's and we transfer to Wanaka. The group has a different day exploring the Mountain and glaciers of the under ( ), this is on a clear day. We travel to Makarora and take a 20 minute scenic flight in a helicopter up and around the for a heli . Landing in the remote Siberia Valley we have a of some 3 hours on a well-marked track back down the mountain.
After 3 nights in Wanaka the this small group and the . We have a on a section of the Milford track within the which is often a highlight because of the history and on any for those interested in . The following day, from our coach takes us to Bluff and a ferry across to of New Zealand heads further south, to . Not many come to on or enjoy the park the covers 85% of the island. This is a unique part of this to help the group spot kiwis. The following day we depart and in 2 days the group enjoys to some of historically important locations in the wildlife park on . In the evening after dark, we have a by ferry to join the coach for the return journey to where this small group has a farewell dinner.
New Zealand ( Maori : Aotearoa ) is an island country with a total land area of 268,000 square kilometres (103,500 sq mi) in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It is one of the most southernmost countries in the world, about 2,000 kilometres (1,200 mi) east of Australia . The country has two main islands: the (Te Ika-a-Māui) and the (Te Waipounamu), and about 600 smaller islands.
Our 14-day small group tours of New Zealand requires a reasonable level of fitness to be able up to 20 kilometres a day on flat to reasonable grades as well as uphill and downhill sections of track.
This small group will be accompanied by an Odyssey and are joined by expert local guides who will impart their knowledge about the places we will visit. Odyssey conducts educational tours designed for small groups of mature and senior travellers , focusing on history, culture, wildlife and other areas of particular interest where the is taking place. A small group is typically between 6 to 12 people. The cost of a Odyssey Traveller is inclusive of all entrances (unless otherwise indicated), tipping, and majority of the meals throughout the .
This particular has periods of free time built into the itinerary, allowing you explore some destinations at your own pace, and choose from a variety of available activities. This way, we make sure that there is something to enjoy for every kind of traveller.
New Zealand is well known for its network of boutique lodges and small charming hotels as well as traditional hotel style accommodation types. For this program we have selected accommodation that represents good value, is close to where we need to be, has some but not many amenities that the group need and has a good reputation for looking after travellers who are visiting and finally has rooms with terrific beds to sleep in after a day in the open air. We trust you enjoy the choices we have made that are above our usual choice of hotel to stay in.
For all the articles Odyssey Traveller has published for mature aged and senior travellers, click through on this link .
For all the articles Odyssey Traveller has published for mature aged and senior travellers, click through on this link.
Overview:
Overview:
Participants of this small group meet early in the afternoon in and take the to transfer as a group to Russell in the Bay of Islands. There is a welcome dinner shortly after our arrival at the hotel.
This charming town is the perfect base for exploring the Bay of Islands. Russell holds an important place in New Zealand’s history, being the country’s first sea port, its first European settlement and New Zealand’s first capital in nearby Okiato. The town’s streets retain their original layout and names from 1843, and many of its historic buildings can still be visited today.
Accommodation:
Duke of Marlborough Hotel. The Duke of Marlborough is one of New Zealand’s oldest hotels – an iconic waterfront property situated in the historic seaside village of Russell. As such, it offers a wonderful touch of yesteryear.The hotel has lovely views over to Paihia and Waitangi and the rest of the Bay of Islands.
Overview:
Today your small group has a of Urupukapuka island. We board the ferry at the jetty in front of your hotel and take the 40 min journey to Urupukapuka Island, the largest island in the Bay of island collection. The starts after a short vist to the Island Conservation Centre at Otehei bay before commencing our , exploring the island. Urupukapuka Island has a fascinating prehistoric and colonial history, as well as the ground-breaking work of Project Island Song and DOC to restore native bird life to the recreation reserve.
Before European’s arrived the Bay of Islands was a populous place with a complex political, ancestral, and cultural history. Maori stories tell of a long settlement on Urupukapuka relating to Ngare Raumati, Ngatiawa, Ngati wai, and Ngapuhi sub tribes and hapu. A 1772 plan of the Bay of Islands made by the French expedition, led by du Fresne, shows a village on Urupukapuka fortified by palisades. Later in the 1800s two European families leased some land for grazing began to clear the island and build a fence line. In the early 1900s the Baker family acquired land on Urupukapuka and farmed on the island. It was eventually sold by its Maori shareholders early in the twentieth century. While farming continued the island also became a recreational focus for visitors to the bay. In 1927 the author Zane Grey began to use Otehei Bay as a base for game fishing. Grey was an internationally influential character and the maritime recreation activities now central to the Bay of Islands were pioneered at his Urupukapuka resort.
Urupukapuka Island is packed with fantastic walking tracks, ranging from a 1 hour the you will be taken past many of the dozens of pristinely preserved archaeological sites on the island, some of which may be up to 1000 years old. From prehistoric Māori pa, villages, gardens, and food storage, right up to early 20th Century buildings used by famous author Zane Grey. Also of note is coastal pohutakawa forest on the island that we through today. to a 5 hour , so whatever your stamina level we will find something for you.The most notable of these is the 7.3km Urupukapuka Island Archaeological . This track, designed to be walked in a clockwise direction, can be accessed from most of the larger beaches on the island, and if a 5 hour is a bit too much for you, it can be broken down into a walking of about 2.5 hours long. As well as boasting some of the most on
Accommodation: The Duke of Marlborough
Overview:
Today this small group heads south to , but first we drive to Puketi Forest (1.5hrs drive) where you will meet your private walking guide.
The small group has a 3 hour through Puketi Forest, the ancient kauri rainforest (15,000 hectares). With over 360 indigenous species of plants. This subtropical rainforest is one of the most diverse in New Zealand. Puketi and Omahuta Forests together form one of the largest continuous tracts of native rainforest in Northland. Both forests have populations of endangered kokako, native short-tailed bats and giant kauri snails. Omahuta’s largest kauri tree is Hokianga, possibly the tallest kauri in Northland at 53.3 metres. Te Tangi o te Tui is Puketi’s giant, the fourth largest in the country with a height of 50.9 metres and a diameter of 3.94 metres. The Kauri is related to the Queensland species. On our as we through the park we learn about the uniques flora and fanua in New Zealand’s bush and what to expect to see as this heads all the way south to .
We pause for lunch before heading south through stunning landscapes to for an overnight stop.
Accommodation:
Stay one night at the Heritage Hotel .
Overview:
This morning we leave to head to Turangi. Almost two hours from we stop to have a of the Tuatari Wetlands.
Tuatara are the sole surviving members of an ancient group of reptiles found only in New Zealand. See their unique characteristics and hear about their life history and journey to Maungatautari.
Observe the endearing takahe, a New Zealand conservation icon. Thought to be lost forever, takahe made history when they were rediscovered in the remote mountains of in 1948. This large, flightless bird helped shape the future of conservation techniques in New Zealand. Encountering a takahe or the Tuatare for the first time can transport you to a pre-historic world!
Meet your guide for a privately of the Tuatari Wetlands. (1.5hrs). Discover the secrets of the Tautari Wetland and learn why wetlands need to be restored. You’ll hear the story of the people behind the wetland; the family who gifted the land to the Trust. along the inside of our multi-species predator-proof fence and find out how we keep the wetland pest-free. Explore the Tuatarium with your guide for an insight into the fascinating world of tuatara – their history, life cycle and unique physical characteristics and hear about how they came to be at Sanctuary Mountain.
This small group continues onto to Turangi, breaking for Lunch and time to stretch our legs on the journey. Time permitting we pass for a break and photo opportunity at Huka falls just before Lake Taupo.
Accommodation: Stay two nights at the Lodge. This Turangi luxury lodge is located in beautiful -like grounds on the banks of the legendary River on the southern shores of Lake Taupo at the foot of New Zealand’s outdoor playground – the world heritage .Pre dinner canapes and your evening meal is included at the Lodge tonight.
Overview:
Today’s is expected to be a highlight of all the guided hikes on this small group of New Zealand as the group experiences a across the Crossing. The group climb steadily up through stunning landscapes of and the three volcanic peaks to then commence the down to the edge of the .
was the first formed in New Zealand, and the fourth in the world. It was the first in the world to be gifted by a country’s indigenous people, on 23 September 1887. When established the original size of was 2,640 hectares and it has gradually increased to its present size of 79,596 hectares. Today, approximately one million people visit each year due to the excellent opportunities.
is a dual World Heritage area. This status recognises the park ‘s important Maori cultural and spiritual associations as well as its outstanding volcanic features.
Early morning breakfast is included at the guide . Today this small group has a for the 19km Crossing. The Crossing is considered one of the most beautiful 1 day walks in the world. The is not just a simple mountain but a complex of active volcanoes. Being an exposed and volcanic area in the middle of the the conditions can change very rapidly. This is a 7-8 hour so you will appreciate your experienced and personable guides who will provide you with a safe, enjoyable and memorable of the area. today before heading to your meeting point to meet your private
The three andesitic volcanoes at the heart of the park , the mountains , Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu, form the southern limits of the Taupō Volcanic Zone, part of the Pacific Ring of Fire. A plate boundary lies just east of the of New Zealand, where the Pacific Plate slides under the Indian-Australian Plate. This area of ‘subduction’ has created a line of volcanoes which stretches from the pacific island of Tonga to Ruapehu, including White island.
The Pacific and Indian-Australian plate boundary is almost totally responsible for the existence of the New Zealand islands and the volcanoes of provide a graphic illustration of the power generated by the movement of these plates. The region of volcanic activity that occurs from Mt Ruapehu to White Island in the Bay of Plenty is known collectively as the Taupo Volcanic Zone.
Volcanic activity in the zone started about 2 million years ago and continues today.
Accommodation: Lodge.Pre dinner canapes and your evening meal is included at the Lodge tonight.
Overview: Today your small group has a leisurely start today as you recover from yesterdays big . We travel to to check in for your flight to in New Zealand’s (1hr 45mins drive). On arrival in you will drive to Wanaka (1hrs drive).
Accommodation: Wanaka Homestead is situated in an idyllic location nestled amongst Wanaka’s Station Park, once home to the town’s original Homestead (the New Zealand term for farmhouse). The Park’s expansive lawns and towering redwoods will lead you down to the lake and the start of seemingly endless and stunningly beautiful walking tracks.
Overview: Today this small group has a with a heli that takes a scenic flight up towards the of the of New Zealand, walks back down the mountain pausing for lunch and finishes with a jet boat ride. This is often an amazing flight with views from Wanaka across to ( ). We land in Siberia valley, an and enjoy a 3 hour unguided on a well-marked track, breaking somewhere for lunch and to take in the view across towards . New Zealand prides itself in much of of its tourism activities in providing some on a , today after the scenic flight and the down a mountain, the group rendezvous for a 30 minute return jet boat ride through the icy blue waters of the Wilkin and Makarora Rivers to Wanaka. This boat ride is a shared excursion. A packed lunch is included today.
Accommodation: Wanaka Homestead
Overview:
Today is a free day for the group to explore.
Wanaka is set against the pristine alpine backdrop of Mount Aspiring . Crystal clear lakes and rivers are fed from the glaciers of Mt Aspiring and is the backdrop to the stunning landscapes of the region. There are a number of options today such as exploring the Mount Aspiring wilderness, or a up to the instagram famous Roy’s peak, or around the lake or perhaps a late afternoon wine tasting from the local wineries which are known for their Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Accommodation: Wanaka Homestead
Overview: Breakfast is included at Wanaka Homestead today. This small group of New Zealand departs Wanaka for , deep in the . The quaint and peaceful township of is nestled on the edge of a lake of the same name and is known as the “‘Gateway to “. is the largest of New Zealand’s 14 National Parks with an area of approximately 12500 sqkm and is a major part of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage site. This park is home to the famous Milford track, which remains for a hiker the most popular . This afternoon in you can enjoy one of the optional activities below or just spend the afternoon relaxing such as a Helicopter flight to or a guided half day Kepler track .
Accommodation: Stay two nights at Distinction Luxmore Hotel. Distinction Luxmore is conveniently located in the heart of ‘s town shopping centre and a short stroll from Lake , the ‘s largest lake.
Overview:
Today the small group has a on a section of the famous Milford Track. New Zealand’s most famous tramping ( ) trail. The Milford Track has origins as an overland greenstone route between Lake and . In 1888, colourful local Quintin Mackinnon navigated the rainforests and mountain passes to create the route the track follows today. Word got out, and Mackinnon became the track’s first guide, famous for his good nature and scone-baking skills. In 1908, the London Spectator called the Milford Track ‘the Finest in the World’ – and the rest is history. Leaving from you accommodation, we journey to Glade Wharf by private water taxi to the start of the track. The begins as you cross a suspension bridge and venture into the of the landscapes that form the Milford Track. The great thing about this exclusive guided day is that you call the shots on how far you would like to go – trekking today can be up to 14 kilometres long. Enjoy a picnic lunch at the location of your choice before heading back to the boat for the return journey. The section of the Milford Track that you will is relatively easy going and is suitable for most ages and abilities.
Accommodation: Distinction Luxmore Hotel.
Overview:
Today our , comprising 85% of the island’s 1570 square kilometres.Whether you go to enjoy the land and seascapes, view the wildlife, , or just relax, will be an experience that will you will never forget. departs and heads to the South of the (2.5hrs drive). The catches the ferry at Bluff to . For all visitors offers a special experience – a glimpse into a simpler, slower lifestyle, in rhythm with the sea and the tides, attuned to the natural world of bush and beach. Not many people on a reach this far South. In 2002 the very qualities that make this a great place to treasure were recognised in the formation of the Rakiura
In the afternoon the meets with Ange who will be your guide for a leisurely Ulva Island . Ulva Island (Te Wharawhara), is renowned for its diverse and abundant birdlife with a forest dominated by Rimu, Southern Rata and Kamahi, surrounded by marine reserve. It was visited by Ngai Tahu Maori as part of their food gathering trips and in the 1890s it became one of New Zealand’s first reserves. After a lot of hardwork this 267 hectare island is now predator free, allowing the bird and plantlife to thrive.
Accommodation: Stay two nights at Stewart Island Lodge. Nestled in native bush on a sunny hillside, Stewart Island Lodge offers a peaceful sanctuary from the modern world. Located just 5 minutes walk from the village centre,the lodge is private and secluded with commanding views of Halfmoon Bay and the surrounding ocean.
Overview:
Today is this small group of New Zeland last day in the Wilderness. We have a for some 5 hours on a to Port Williams and Maori Beach. This is one of the most popular coastal and native bush walks on . The starts with a Water taxi to Port William, site of early Maori settlement, before continuing on to beautiful Maori beach. This was also where early Maori settled and later became a saw milling community in the early 1900s. The continues on to Lee Bay via Little River, a stunning tidal river mouth, overhanging with Rata trees. Along the coast lookout for a plethora of birdlife, such as, Mutton birds (Sooty Shearwaters), Shags, Buller’s Mollymawks, Cape Pigeons, and little Blue Pengiuns. In the native bush you may see and hear Bellbirds, Tui, Fantails, Parakeets, Shining Cuckoos, Grey Warblers, Kaka and Tomtits and more.
After dinner the takes, weather permitting, a late night with your guide to go kiwi spotting. The tokoeka is the largest of the kiwi and although can be seen during the day on the best chance to see them is at night. Listen for the males repeated high-pitched ascending whistle and the females deeper throaty cry. This is a a great experience!
Accommodation: Stewart Island Lodge
Overview: We leave and return to the mainland by ferry for the drive back through central to Queenstown, breaking for morning tea and a in Invercargill. (3hrs drive). The afternoon is free for you to explore the region. You may like to take advantage of local shopping or to visit Arrowtown. Arrowtown is charming and quirky – a delightful gold rush village nestled below the beautiful peaks that surround the sparkling Arrow River.
A Farewell dinner is included tonight.
Accommodation: Kamana Lakehouse captures the essence of Queenstown, bridging the gap between exploration and relaxation. As the highest altitude accommodation in town, this gorgeously-designed boutique hotel presents sweeping views of the lake and The Remarkables mountain range, offering a peaceful retreat in the capital of the world.
Overview: The small group walking tour of New Zealand program concludes after breakfast.
What’s included in our Tour
What’s not included in our Tour