Tour 211
RAIL AND GRAND CHATEAU BREAKAWAY - includes "Northern Explorer" train from Auckland return. Tongariro Alpine Crossing option.
2 days/1 night (extendable). Departs Monday, Thursday, Saturday
Day 1.
7.45am. Depart aboard the "Northern Explorer" train for the scenic journey along the banks of the Waikato River, through rural dairy farmland, small communities, and the more rugged Volcanic Plateau including the engineering marvel of the Raurimu Spiral up which the train must climb.
1.15pm. Arrive National Park station and shuttle to the Grand Chateau just 20 minutes drive away.Check in at the hotel.
Day 2. Tuesday, Friday, Sunday only.
Free time for alpine or bush walk, take a scenic flight over the central North island volcanoes (highly recommended) or just relax. All activities extra expense
12.15pm. Transfer to National Park Railway Station.
1.15pm Depart aboard the "Northern Explorer" train
6.50pm. Arrive Auckland and you will be transferred back to your accommodation.
We recommend staying longer at the Grand Chateau.
In summer enjoy any of the many alpine walks, take a guided hike to the top of Mt Ruapehu volcano (conditions permitting) or enjoy the famolus Tongariro Crossing, rated one of the best one day walks in the world.
Please note: Gondola sightseeing and mountain cafes are closed this summer for installation of a new gondola.
Tongariro Crossing
The Tongariro Crossing is one of the 'must do' world walks. Magnificent mountain scenery in the presence of two active volcanoes, Mt Tongariro, and Mt Ngaruhoe (aka Mt Doom) in the Tongariro National Park. Experience Mountain Springs, a glacial valley, old lava flows, active craters, steam vents, emerald coloured lakes, and alpine plant life all included.
We strongly recommend taking a guided hike to enjoy the best experience in safety. Weather conditions change rapidly in the mountains and your guide will have the latest information as well as introduce the mountain flora, fauna, and scenery to you. Cost $195. Pickup at the Grand Chateau is about 7am and return about 4pm. Mountain equipment is included. Track length is 19.4 kms starting at 1100 metres above sea level. Highest point is 1886 metres. A reasonable level of fitness is required. A minimum of 2 nights at the Chateau is required.
SCENIC FLIGHTS
To really appreciate the spectacular beauty of the mountains and Lake Taupo we strongly recommend a scenic flight from the Chateau airfield (transfers from the Chateau provided)
15 minute flight - Tongariro Crossing. $125
25 minute flight - Northern Circuit. $205
35 minute flight - Volcanic Explorer. $255
Tour 211A
GRAND CHATEAU - WAIRAKEI RESORT (TAUPO) - ROTORUA. 7 day/6 nights
Departs Auckland 7.45am every Monday, Thursday, Saturday.
Departs Wellington 7.55am every Tuesday, Friday, Sunday
Day 1. Northern Explorer train to National Park and shuttle to Grand Chateau for 2 nights accommodation and breakfast
Day 2. Free day for your own activities. Ski or snowboard in winter, enjoy a guided hike on the Tongariro Crossing year round, or whatever you wish.
Day 3. Free time and transfer to Taupo and Wairakei Resort for 2 nights accommodation and breakfast
Day 4. Free day to enjoy your choice of activities in the Taupo area
Day 5. Travel by Intercity bus to Rotorua for 2 nights accommodation and breakfast at Sudima Hotel or similar
Day 6. Free day to explore Rotorua. many optional activities available
Day 7. Return to Auckland or Wellington by Intercity coach. various departures available during the day. Tour ends at Skycity coach terminal or Wellington rail station. You may start Auckland and end Wellington or vice versa if you wish
Tour cost per person:
2 per room $990. 3 per room $ 870. Single room $1,590.Tour cost includes:
** All travel from Auckland or Wellington back to Auckland or Wellington by train and coach
** Arrival and departure transfers at each point
** 6 nights accommodation and breakfast at 4 star hotels
On mountain and sightseeing costs are not included.
This tour cannot currently be requested on line. Please email us
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