2025 Tours
Discover Kuala Lumpur 2 Nights & Vietnam - 9 Nights
THIS TOUR IS FULL - PLEASE REGISTER YOUR INTEREST FOR OUR NEXT TOUR
About: ​Discover what Kuala Lumpur & Vietnam has to offer!
​
16th June 2025 to 27th June 2025
I will pick you all up from your home and travel to Auckland International Airport for our flight to Kuala Lumpur.
Flight from Auckland to Kuala Lumpur (11 hr, 25 min)
Departing 1pm - Arrive in to Kuala Lumpur 8.25pm
​
​
16th June 2025: Arrival Kuala Lumpur
Arrive, rest then a visit to Dong Xuan, the largest covered market in the city.
​​
17th June: Kuala Lumpur
Half day sightseeing tour this morning, highlights of KL and alt a visit to the Batu Caves.
Afternoon at leisure, perhaps a visit to the Petronas Towers (at your own expense), relax in the green space in front of you hotel, maybe a spot of shopping or relax in the hotel pool.
This evening we will reconvene and make our way to Petaling Market area for a street food tour and a stroll through the markets.
18th June - Arrival - Hanoi
Flight from Kuala Lumpur to Hanoi (3 hr, 30 min)
Intrepid - Vietnam Adventure (10 Days)
We will make our way to the Airport on the KLIA express to the airport for our flight to Hanoi.Arrive in Hanoi. We will be transferred from the airport to our hotel.
​
In the late afternoon we will meet up with our local guide. We will then visit Dong Xuan, the largest covered market in the city.
Included Activities:
Hanoi – Hanoi Street Food Experience (food and drink samples as per itinerary are included)
​
19th June : Hanoi – Halong Bay - Overnight Boat Cruise
Today we journey to Ha Long Bay to explore hidden caves and islands. We are on board a luxurious cruise ship, our home for the next 24 hours. Kayaking is restricted to designated zones within the bay. Your junk-style boat has twin-share cabins with en-suite facilities and air-conditioning.
​
Included Activities:
Halong Bay - Overnight Boat Cruise
​
20th June : Halong Bay – Hanoi - Overnight train to Hue
Wake up in Halong Bay and enjoy the scenery. After our lunch we disembark at Ha Long cruise port at around noon time. From there we visit The Green Life Centre where they turn the trash into treasure. After our visit we go by bus to Hanoi. The rest of the afternoon is free to explore before we board an overnight train to Hue in the evening.
Halong Bay - The Green Life Visit
Overnight train to Hue​ - Four or Six berth compartments with bench seats that convert into sleeping bunks. You get a sheet, pillow and blanket. You can bring your own sleeping sheet. Most trains have a dining carriage but they recommend you stock up on snacks and drinks before departure.
21st June: Hue
We arrive in Hue in the morning and will transfer to the hotel. Most of the day is free for you to explore until we reunite to visit the war-damaged ruins of the Imperial Citadel, a sprawling city-within-a-city which contains the remains of temples, state houses and the emperor's palace.
Hue - Imperial City entrance and guided visit
​
22nd June : Hue
Today we explore Hue like a local on the back of a motorbike.
Below are all the places you will visit today:
Hue - Royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc
Hue - Highlights & back streets by motorbike
Hue - Thien Mu Pagoda
Hue - Motorbike Tour Lunch
23rd June: Hue – Hoi An
This morning we travel by bus through coastal rice paddies and the spectacular Hai Van Pass.
Below are our activities for the day:
Hoi An - Old Town walking tour
Hoi An – Hoi An Prison Remnants
​
24th June: Hoi An
Today is a free day to explore Hoi An. Enjoy a meal at a riverside restaurant or perhaps partake in a cooking class. This maybe a great day to go biking or find out about a local walk. Lets talk about the options available in this area.
25th June: Hoi An – Danang – Ho Chi Minh City
Today take a short, early morning flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City has a fascinating history. After landing we take a sightseeing tour around the city by bus.
​
Below are the activities included in todays tour:
Ho Chi Minh City - War Remnants Museum
Ho Chi Minh City – Sai Gon Commandos Museum
Ho Chi Minh City - City tour
​
26th June: Ho Chi Minh City
Today we travel south by private minibus (approximately 3 hours) and spend the day exploring the Mekong Delta.
On arrival, board a private boat and traverse the intricate waterways – soak up the tranquil surrounds and admire the breathtaking views.
Mekong Delta - Mekong Delta Day Trip & Village Tuk-Tuk Tour
Ho Chi Minh City – Sai Gon Street Food by night experience (food and drink samples are included as per itinerary)​
​
27th June: Ho Chi Minh City Departure
Today is our final day and there are no activities planned. The room is at your disposal until 12pm
Flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Kuala Lumpur (2 hr) - 4.40pm - Arrive in Kuala Lumpur at 7.40pm
9:10pm Flight from Kuala Lumpur to Auckland (10 hr, 15 min) +1
​
We arrive in to Auckland 11.25am
After we are all through customs I will take you all home.
​
Investment: $4795 per person twin share
Includes: Return transfers with Greta from Cambridge to Auckland Return economy airfares on Malaysia Airlines with 30kg of luggage per person (pricing is based on costs as at 01 August 2024 so at the time of booking there may be a surcharge added if the airfare taxes alter before ticketing confirmations)
All included arrangements described in Kuala Lumpur Intrepid Tailormade Tour of Vietnam as described in attached itinerary
​
Not included:
• Tips for leaders, guide and driver
• Expenditure of personal nature
• Personal Insurance
• Optional activities
• Vietnam E Visa will have to be obtained before travel at your own expense approx $55NZD and is applied for online directly with the Vietnam Government.
​
• Optional activities
• Vietnam E Visa will have to be obtained before travel at your own expense approx $55NZD and is applied for online directly with the Vietnam Government.
Deposit: A $2200 per person non-refundable deposit is required now (with the balance due 01 March 2025 and a copy of your passport to be supplied).
Spa Day
THIS TOUR IS FULL - PLEASE REGISTER YOUR INTEREST FOR OUR NEXT TOUR
When: Friday 4th July 2025 - departing 8.30 am from the Cambridge i-site or picking up from a pre-arranged location before 8.30 am.
​
About: We will be heading over to Rotorua for the day. This is a perfect day to relax and enjoy being pampered. Let's break out and rejuvenate our bodies. This is for a limited number of ladies only 6: there's a selection of treatments available and you can choose on the day from a mud wrap, massage, pedicure, manicure, or facial. There's a spa and sauna for you to relax in while you enjoy over 4 hours at the spa.
​
Investment: $190 per person. includes all transport and over 4 hours of pure luxury at the spa
​
​
Taupo Day Trip - Hot Pools
This Trip is now full - please contact me if you would like to go on the waiting list.
When: Wednesday 9th July 2025 - departing 9am from the Cambridge i-site or picking up from a pre-arranged location.
​
About: This is a fabulous day exploring Taupo and finishing the day with a hot soak before heading home. First we will visit Lava Glass then Aratiatia Rapids at 12pm to view the gates opening.
We will then head in to Taupo for lunch. You are welcome to bring your lunch otherwise we will be going to one of the many places along the lake front.
​
Please bring your swim wear and also wear suitable walking shoes. There will be some walking involved along the way. A good standard of fitness is required.
​
Investment: $95.00 includes driver, transport, and entry in to the Wairakei thermal pools & terrace walk. Not included is Lunch.
​
Goat Farm Visit
When: Monday 11th August. Departing from Cambridge at 10am from the Cambridge i-site or picking up from a pre-arranged location.
About: Join us today for this unique farm visit.​​
This is a unique day trip to a Goat Farm. We have the pleasure of getting up close with the goats and get to ask a lot of questions as we get a tour of the farm.
After our visit I've booked for us to have lunch at the Okoroire Hot Springs Hotel.
Please wear old shoes or gum boots on the day.​
Investment: $70 includes all transport and driver & farm entry. Lunch at your own cost.
​​
Cooking with Alisha - Recipes from Around the World
When: Wednesday 13th August 2025 - departing 10am from the Cambridge i-site or picking up from a pre-arranged location.
​
About: Alisha and her team welcome you in to her industrial kitchen set in a wonderful rural setting. Today Alisha will have some recipes from around the world and you can get to choice if you would like to cook a dish by yourself or in pairs.
With this course, Alisha will have recipes ( that you can take home ) and with her help we will create some wonderful dishes.
At the end of our cooking day we will enjoy sharing our dishes with the group over lunch ​
Investment: $180.00 includes driver, transport, and all the ingredients to make the dish of your choice and at the end enjoy lunch together.
Explore the South Waikato
When: Wednesday 20th August - departing 10am from the Cambridge i-site or picking up from a pre-arranged location.
​
About: Today is a bit of a mystery day out exploring the south of the Waikato. Be assured we will be visiting some interesting places. Please wear good walking shoes on the day.
If you have cabin fever and just wish to have a day out with some good company then this could be the right day.
​
Investment: $40 includes driver and transport. Lunch at your own cost
Spa Day
This Trip is now full - please contact me if you would like to go on the waiting list.
When: Friday 22nd August 2025 - departing 8.30 am from the Cambridge i-site or picking up from a pre-arranged location before 8.30 am.
​
About: We will be heading over to Rotorua for the day. This is a perfect day to relax and enjoy being pampered. Let's break out and rejuvenate our bodies. This is for a limited number of ladies only 6: there's a selection of treatments available and you can choose on the day from a mud wrap, massage, pedicure, manicure, or facial. There's a spa and sauna for you to relax in while you enjoy over 4 hours at the spa.
​
Investment: $190 per person. includes all transport and over 4 hours of pure luxury at the spa
​
Explore NZ's Geology and Landscape
This Trip is now full - please contact me if you would like to go on the waiting list.
When: Tuesday 26th August - Departing Cambridge I-site at 9am or pick up from a pre-arranged location
​
About: Today we will be travelling through to Hamilton then on to Raglan. We will be exploring the major events in the geological history of New Zealand as expressed in our local rocks and landscape. Dr Megan Balks will be on board to lead us on a fun trip towards the West Coast, to better understand our local region and learn how our country and the local landscape evolved, from the Jurassic to the present day. Megan taught Earth Sciences at Waikato university for 30 years and today we are privileged to have her with us.​
​
Investment: $70 includes driver, transport and Dr Megan Balks. Lunch at your own cost​
Floral Shed & Taitua Arboretum
When: Tuesday 2nd September 2025 - departing 10am from the Cambridge i-site or picking up from a pre-arranged location.
​
About: Spring is in the air so a visit to the Floral shed would be a refreshing start to the month.
After our visit we will visit Taitua Arboretum for an easy walk through some beautiful trees to enjoy our lunch and listen to the birds.
Please bring your lunch and please wear suitable shoes for walking and a leki stick. A good standard of fitness required.
​
Investment: $40 includes driver and transport. Lunch at your own cost​
Train Journey - Hamilton to Auckland
_(cropped).jpeg)
When: Friday 5th September - Departing Cambridge at 8.30am from a pre-arranged location.

About: Traveling to Frankton railway station to catch the train to Auckland. The Te Huia Departs Frankton station at 9.30am. You will need to have a Bee card linked to your Gold Card to have a free train ride through to the strand.
We will all get off the train at Puhinui so that all of those that don't have a Hop Card or do have one but it isn't linked to their Gold Card, can get that all sorted at Puhinui.
From Puhinui we will use our Hop Cards to have free transport through to Britomart for a walk and some lunch. We will then return back to Puhinui by 3.30pm to catch the Te Huia back to Frankton.
There has been some changes to the times that we can have free transport on the Te Huia. It is from 9am to 3pm Monday to Friday and all day in the weekend, so when we catch the train back to Frankton there will most probably be a charge.
We will be catching the 3.59pm train from Puhinui which will get us back to Frankton at 5.50pm.
Te Huia will be free heading to Auckland but be aware that there will be a cost when we return as it is in peak hours.
Investment: $40 includes driver, transport to and from Frankton Railway station. Lunch at your own cost. They do have a cafe on the train.
​​
Tip Top Factory Tour
When: Tuesday 9th September 2025 - departing 8.30am from the Cambridge i-site or picking up from a pre-arranged location.
​
About: Today we travel to Auckland to the Tip Top Factory and take in a tour of the plant at 11am.
Even the best laid plans, and tours booked on expected high production days run the risk of not seeing ice cream being produced for a variety of reasons. We cannot guarantee you will see ice-cream being made due to the nature of our fluctuating and seasonal production schedule. This means that there is a chance that the tour group may not see ice cream being produced through our observation windows.
​
Investment: $75 includes driver, transport and tour of Tip Top. Lunch at your own cost
​​
Delve into the Makeup of Rotorua Lakes & Mountains
When: Friday 12th September - departing from the Cambridge i-site at 9am or picking up from a pre-arranged location.
About: We will be delving into the makeup of Rotorua lakes & mountains with Dr Megan Balks who will be on board with us today. Come and enjoy a fascinating day out, and please bring your lunch or snacks as we are mostly in the countryside.

Investment: $100.00 includes entry to Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland, driver, transport and Dr Megan Balks. Lunch at your own cost.
​​
Jersey Boys
.jpg)
This Trip is now full - please contact me if you would like to go on the waiting list.
When: Sunday 14th September 2025 - departing 1pm from the Cambridge i-site or picking up from a pre-arranged location.
​
About: The show starts at 4pm. After the show I will book for us to have dinner before we travel home.​
​
Investment: $85 includes driver, transport and entry ticket into Jersey Boys. Not included: Evening meal​
WOW Trip One - 3 nights
This Trip is now full - please contact me if you would like to go on the waiting list.
When: - Thursday 18th - Sunday 21st September 2025.
​
About: I’ll pick you all up from home before we head South to Wellington.
We have shared accommodation - 3 nights at the Copthorne Hotel Wellington Oriental Bay. Please let me know if you require your own room. There will be an extra cost for a single room
For your breakfast you are welcome to bring your own with a bowl and spoon. They will provide you with milk at the hotel. Otherwise there are two other options
1. Restaurant on level 7
2. There is a cafe just next door to the hotel on the right as you walk out of the front door. I was told the coffee is good.
​
Friday & Saturday - We have two full days to explore Wellington. You will have the opportunity to visit Weta Workshop or Zealandia if you wish. I'm happy to purchase the tickets for you in advance to secure a spot for these activities. Otherwise we can take a drive around the bays and visit the site where the Wahine we down as will as a trip up to Mount Victoria Lookout. Also another interesting activity to do is to take the ferry from Wellington across to Eastbourne. It takes about half an hour and goes 5 times a day.
Either the first night or the second night we will have the main event. The tickets aren't available for purchase until later next year.
​
Investment: $1,300 - 3 nights shared accommodation, $1,700 single room accommodation, entry ticket to WOW (platinum seats) Driver, and transport. Meals are not included.
Spa Day
When: Friday 26th September - departing 8.30 am from the Cambridge i-site or picking up from a pre-arranged location before 8.30 am.
​
About: We will be heading over to Rotorua for the day. This is a perfect day to relax and enjoy being pampered. Let's break out and rejuvenate our bodies. This is for a limited number of ladies only 6: there's a selection of treatments available and you can choose on the day from a mud wrap, massage, pedicure, manicure, or facial. There's a spa and sauna for you to relax in while you enjoy over 4 hours at the spa.
​
Investment: $190 per person. includes all transport and over 4 hours of pure luxury at the spa
​
CONTACT Greta on 027 2557 225 or greta@bikehikestay.co.nz to secure your spot.
WOW Trip Two - 3 nights
This Trip is now full - please contact me if you would like to go on the waiting list.
When: Monday 29th September - Thursday 2nd October 2025.
About: I’ll pick you all up from home before we head South to Wellington.
We have shared accommodation - 3 nights at the Copthorne Hotel Wellington Oriental Bay. Please let me know if you require your own room. There will be an extra cost for a single room
For your breakfast you are welcome to bring your own with a bowl and spoon. They will provide you with milk at the hotel. Otherwise there are two other options
1. Restaurant on level 7
2. There is a cafe just next door to the hotel on the right as you walk out of the front door. I was told the coffee is good.
​
Tuesday & Wednesday - We have two full days to explore Wellington. You will have the opportunity to visit Weta Workshop or Zealandia if you wish. I'm happy to purchase the tickets for you in advance to secure a spot for these activities. Otherwise we can take a drive around the bays and visit the site where the Wahine we down as will as a trip up to Mount Victoria Lookout. Also another interesting activity is to do is take the ferry from Wellington across to Eastbourne. It takes about half an hour and goes 5 times a day.
Either the first night or the second night we will have the main event. The tickets aren't available for purchase until later next year.
​
Investment: $1,300 - 3 nights shared accommodation, $1,700 single room accommodation, entry ticket to WOW (platinum seats) Driver, and transport. Meals are not included.
​
CONTACT Greta on 027 2557 225 or greta@bikehikestay.co.nz to secure your spot.
Operatunity - Fabulous 50's
When: Monday 13th October 2025 - departing 9am from the Cambridge i-site or picking up from a pre-arranged location.
​
About: The show starts at 11am. We will arrive at about 9.45am for a biscuit & cup of tea before you take your seat. After the show I will book for us to have lunch before we travel home​
​
Investment: $85 includes driver, transport and entry ticket into Fabulous 50's.
​
​
Pio Pio Day Trip
This Trip is now full - please contact me to go on waiting list or for the next day trip
When: Thursday 16th October 2025 - departing 1pm from the Cambridge i-site or picking up from a pre-arranged location.
​
About: Traveling to PioPio this morning to do a bush walk and then visit Waitanguru Falls which we didn't have enough time to do in our last visit.
Our first stop once we arrived is a bush walk - this bush walk is on the same road as Waitanguru Falls. It is an hour long. A good standard of fitness is required.
Waitanguru Falls - A 15 minute return walk takes you down to a platform overlooking a stunning 15m tiered waterfall. The walk is well-signposted on the side of the road. This is a steep walk so please wear good walking shoes.
We will then travel to the Fat Pigeon for lunch so you can either bring lunch or purchase something and enjoy a tea or coffee.
After lunch we will head home.
Please wear good walking shoes and a leki stick can also be useful. A good standard of fitness is required.
​​Investment: $60 includes driver and transport. Lunch at your own cost​
Whangarei & Poor Knights 4 Days - 3 Nights
When: Tuesday 21st October - departing from the Cambridge i-site or picking up from a pre-arranged location.
​
About: We will travel to Whangarei and visit Hundertwasser Act Centre with tour, Whangarei Quarry Gardens & a day trip out to the poor Knights.
On Sunday once I have picked you all up from home we will be traveling north to Whangarei with a few stops along the way.
Wednesday 22nd October: Today we are booked to do a guided tour of Huntertwasser Art Centre in the morning. In the afternoon we will visit Whangarei Quarry Gardens after we have had lunch at the cafe.
Thursday 23rd October: Today we will head out to Tutukaka where we will depart for the Poor Knights day tour.
The Poor Knights marine reserve is a protected area where no fishing is allowed, in order to defend its delicate ecosystem.
Visitors to this area should only observe this fragile ecosystem. It is forbidden to damage, disturb, feed or take any marine life. This protected marine habitat will reward diving enthusiasts with stunning submerged scenery and a vast variety of sea creatures.
Friday 24th October: Today we will pack and head home with a few stops along the way.
​​
Investment: $1,500 - 3 nights shared accommodation, $1,950 single room accommodation, entry ticket for a guided tour of Hundertwasser Art Centre, entry ticket to Whangarei Quarry Gardens with guided tour in golf cart, day trip to the Poor Knights which includes lunch, Driver, and transport. Meals are not included.
​​
Waihi Gold Mining Tour
- If this tour would interest you please register your interest-
When: Tuesday 28th October 2025 - departing 9am from the Cambridge i-site or picking up from a pre-arranged location.

About: We will arrive by 10.30am for the first part of this Waihi Gold Experience. We will travel back in time through an interactive museum to see how this mine has changed over the last 147 years. Learn more of the history of gold & silver mining in Waihi. After our lunch we will then meet up again at 1pm for the second part of this journey.
The second half is all about mining today. The tour takes around 2 hours, and with the permission of OceanaGold we take you on our bus/van inside the security fence of the working OceanaGold Waihi Mine site to discuss current activities, the colourful
past and information about how modern gold and silver mining is achieved.It's very important to wear covered in shoes today.

Investment: $130.00 includes entry to Waihi Gold Experence & tour of the working mine today, driver and transport. Lunch at your own cost​
​
Taranaki Garden Festival - 6 Days - 5 Nights
This Trip is now full - please contact me if you would like to go on the waiting list.
When: Wednesday 5th November to Monday 10th November - I will pick you all up from your homes. Leaving Cambridge on Wednesday at 9am. I'll be in touch in October with more details about the gardens we will be visiting while we are there.
​
About: We will travel down to New Plymouth. Along the way we will stop for refreshments and bathroom stops. Depending on the tide we will stop at the three sisters too.
Our accommodation is at the Devon Hotel for 5 nights. Arriving on the 5th November and departing on the 10th November. I've secured 3 shared rooms and 4 single rooms at the Devon from the 5th November and departing on the 10th November 2025. If you require a room of your own then please let me know now so your not disappointed. There is an extra cost for a single room.
With our meals we will either take our breakfast and have it in our room or there is a Restaurant at the Hotel so you are welcome to have breakfast there. We will have lunch out and in the evening we can either have a meal at the Devon or at another location.
​
Investment: Transport, Driver and Shared Accommodation for 5 nights $1,050.00 each - for your own Room it will be an extra $250-00 a total of $1,300.00 each - Not Included - Meals and entry tickets to the Gardens.
​​​
Lake Taupo - With Dr Megan Balk
When: Friday 14th November - departing from the Cambridge i-site at 9am or picking up from a pre-arranged location.
About: Today we learn about the geology and the thermal activity in the Taupo area. Another interesting day, looking back at New Zealand thousands of years ago and how the countryside has changed. Dr Megan Balks will be on board to lead us on this fun day trip.

Investment: $90.00 includes entry to Thermal Park, driver, transport and Dr Megan Balks. Lunch at your own cost
​​​
Discover High Country South Island for 9 Days - 8 Nights
%20(1).jpg)
THIS TOUR IS FULL - PLEASE REGISTER YOUR INTEREST FOR OUR NEXT TOUR
When: Monday 24th November 2025 to Tuesday 2nd December 2025- 8 nights - 9 days
​
24th November 2025 - Fly Hamilton to Christchurch where I will be there to meet you. There's a flight at 11am leaving Hamilton which would be a great option.
​
Day 1 - Monday 24th November: Stay in Christchurch - Ramada Suites by Wyndham
​
Day 2 - Tuesday 25th November: Today we will head to Homebush Stables which is an hours drive from Christchurch. Homebush truly has something for everyone. Category 1 heritage listed 1870's museum and stables buildings house. Our tour starts at 10am which gives us a garden tour, visit the out buildings, learn the history and enjoy refreshments for morning tea.
Accommodation: After our visit we will head to Ski Time Lodge Methven. 43 Racecourse Ave Methven. We will be having an evening meal in the restaurant along with breakfast in the morning.
​
Day 3 - Wednesday 26th November: We have a 2 hour drive to the station but along the way there are a few places of interest eg. Staveley and Ashburton Lakes to name a couple plus we will stop for lunch along the way before we arrive at Erewhon Station. Erewhon Station is a picturesque 35000 acre of sheep & beef nestled amongst the Southern Alps. We have an appointment booked for 1pm. You will experience a wagon ride pulled by Clydesdales along with a tour of Ross Cottage & the museum.
Accommodation: After our visit we will head to Asure Scenic Route Motor Lodge in Geraldine. We will be staying for 2 nights in Geraldine.
​
Day 4 - Thursday 27th November: Today we are booked for 10am visit to Orari Gorge Station which is at the foothills just north of Geraldine. The station has been in the same family for nearly 170 years and is currently run by Robert Peacock (5th generation). It consists of river flats, rolling clay downs and tussock country rising up to 3,500ft. It is home of Orari Gorge Herefords & Orari Gorge Romneys and RomTex. We will have a guided tour of the property along with some fruit followed by a drink. You have a free afternoon after our visit to explore Geraldine. This area is the beginning of Starlight Highway so if we have a clear evening we can enjoy the sky tonight.
​
Day 5 - Friday 28th November: Today we visit Four Peaks Station. - We arrive at 10am for morning tea and a chat about the farm. Then back in the van to drive 17kms to the back of the station by public road. At the end of Mowbray Road we disembark and get in the 4WD vehicles and drive 4kms to Sutherland's Hut. We the learn the history and have lunch. After lunch we get back in the 4WD vehicles and return to the van.
Accommodation: After our visit we will head to Lakes Edge Holiday Park, Lake Tekapo for 1 night.
​
Day 6 - Saturday 29th November: It will be an early start as we have a big day planned today with a visit to Totara Estate. First stop is Clay Cliffs then Kurow for some lunch. We pass through Benmore Dam and Duntroon before we arrive for our 2.30pm Tour of historic limestone buildings and Billy T.
Accommodation: After our visit we will head to Oamaru - our accommodation for tonight is the Brydon Hotel Oamaru.
​
Day 7 - Sunday 30th November: Today we have a 2 hour drive to arrive at Hayes Engineering and homestead. Along the way we will stop at Moeraki Boulders to stretch our legs. We plan to arrive for lunch at the cafe on site before our tour at 1pm. Today is an open day so all the machinery will be working today. There are other interesting things to see in the museum, homestead and outer buildings.
Accommodation: After our visit we will head Mirabell Chalets for 2 nights
​
Day 8 - Monday 1st December: A scenic drive to Lawrence for a personalise historic guided tour. We will meet with Barbara and Stephen at 1pm for a 2 hour guided tour of the historic area of Lawrence.
​
Day 9 - Tuesday 2nd December: Today we pack for home and head to Highland Experience. Experience the luxury and power of the Porsche Cayenne Turbo with Highlands. The drivers are experts and will take you on a thrilling ride through 4.1km track. Lunch at the restaurant. We are booked for 11.45am, 11am and 11.15am.
Fly home in the afternoon. Queenstown to Auckland or Hamilton.
​
Investment - $ 2,500.00 - includes driver, transport, shuttle transfer to and from airport, 8 nights shared accommodation, Admission to Homebush Stables, Admission to Erewhon Station, Admission to Orari Gorge Station, Admission to Four Peaks High Country Station, Admission to Totara Estate, Admission to Hayes Engineering, private tour of historic Lawerence and Highlands Experience. One evening meal at Ski Time Lodge - Other Meals are not included - Not Included - Flights from Hamilton to Christchurch and Queenstown to Auckland or Hamilton not included.​​
Bottom of South Island for 9 Days - 8 Nights
- Catlins - Stewart Island - Invercargill -
THIS TOUR IS FULL - PLEASE REGISTER YOUR INTEREST FOR OUR NEXT TOUR
When: Thursday 11th December 2025 to Friday 19th December 2025
​
Thursday 11th December
Depart from Hamilton Airport at 6.45am and arrive into Dunedin Airport at 10.10am - transit via Wellington.
I will be at Dunedin Airport there to meet you all. Once everyone has arrived we will head to Nugget View kaka Point for 1 night.
Friday 12th December - Monday 15th December
Travel to Owaka and stay for 3 nights. We will have a total of 4 nights in the Catlins.​
Day excursions around the Catlins:
1. Nugget Point Lighthouse
2. McLean Falls
3. Curio Bay - Fossilised forest
4. The Lost Gypsy Gallery
5. Lake Wilkie​
Monday 15th December
Today we pack and slowly drive towards Invercargill for a flight to Stewart Island at 5pm.​
Monday 15th December - Thursday 18th December
Stay in Steward Island for 3 nights - I have booked the backpacks with everyone having their own room.
Places of interest:
1. Ulva Island
2. Bus tour of the island
3. Oban Visitor Centre
4. Rakiura Museum Te Puka O Te Waka
5. We may even get to see a brown Kiwi out at night​
Thursday 18th December
Depart Stewart Island on the morning ferry. We have the day to explore Invercargill with us staying one night at Ascot Park Hotel. I have a couple of ideas re activities while we are there so watch this space.​
Accommodation: Ascot Park Hotel
​
Friday 19th December
Today we pack and head to Queenstown for our flight home.​
Flight details - Queenstown to Hamilton 4.10pm NZ5654 - arrives into Hamilton at 7.45pm.
​
Pricing includes: $2,300-00 - 5 nights shared accommodation, 5 nights single supplement an extra $400, 3 nights single accommodation, shuttle to Hamilton Airport and shuttle from Hamilton Airport to your home, transport, driver, flight over to Stewart Island, return ferry to Bluff, transport back to Invercargill Airport, parking while on Stewart Island. Not included is Flights and Meals.
2026 Tours
Great Barrier Tour 2026 - 6 Days - 5 Nights
When: Monday 9th March 2026 to Saturday 14th March 2026
​
Monday 9th March: We would fly on Monday 9th March around midday to Great Barrier Island. Luggage Allowance is 20kg per person plus 7kg hand luggage. The flight is 40 minutes one way. We will fly in to Claris Airport then we will pick up a van which I'll rent for the time we are on the island. We will be flying Barrier Air.
We will enjoy some time at the bottom end of the island staying at Great Barrier Lodge for 3 nights. 9th through to the 12th March. Then we will be moving to Glenfern Sanctuary for 2 nights 12th & 13th with us departing the island on the 14th March 2026.
Tuesday 10th March: As we are in Whangaparapara area we will enjoy the walks in the area. We will walk to the Hot Springs which is 1 hour walking on a well maintained track and is flat and easy. Take your togs with you today to enjoy a soak in the hot pools. In the afternoon I will organise a tour of some parts of the island and learn about the history.
​
Wednesday 11th March: Today we are booked on the Sundancer Coastal Cruise which leaves at 9am from Whangaparapara Wharf. You will need warm clothing/towel/togs - lunch will be provided.
​
Thursday 12th March: Today we will pack and travel to Port Fitzroy which is towards the top of the island to Glenfern Sanctuary which will be our home for the next two nights. We will be staying in Fitzroy House (Homestead) and the cottage which was built in 1901 and is one of the oldest homesteads remaining on Great Barrier Island. There are many walks from the homestead to enjoy. One of them will take you down to a bay for a swim or kayak. We will be off the grid so enjoy the birds and bush that surrounds you. We are fully self-contained so we will be taking food with us. You will need to bring your own breakfast & lunch requirements.
​
General Supplies: There are no supermarkets on the island, but general stores sell a good variety of supplies including fresh fruit, veges, milk & bread and wine, beers and spirits etc. Tryphena has two small shopping complexes, one at Mulberry Grove and the other at the Stonewall Store Village, Pah Beach. Claris, Whangaparapara and Port FitzRoy also have similar outlets. Fuel outlets are situated at Mulberry Grove Store, Claris, Whangaparapara Wharf and Port Fitzroy Wharf. Remember, we’re 90 km’s out to sea… Freight charges are hefty - so expect to pay a little more for food, fuel, groceries & coffee etc.
​
Friday 13th March: Today we will be enjoying our surroundings with a talk about the Sanctuary then a loop walk which takes you to a large kauri.
​
Saturday 14th March: Today we will pack and get ready to head home with a flight around midday.
​​​
Investment Includes: Return flights to Great Barrier, 5 nights shared accommodation, transport to and from Auckland airport, parking fees at Auckland Airport, Sundancer Coastal Cruise, Bee Tour, half day guided tour of the island, van hire while on the island and driver all included on the tour.
Total cost $2,400 per person. Meals not included.