New Zealand at a glance About the size of Japan, New Zealand occupies a tiny portion of the Earth's smallest continent, located 1,250 miles southeast of Australia. It is comprised of two main islands (North and South) and a collection of smaller islands, some inhabited, some not, off its 9,300 miles of coastline. In addition, New Zealand maintains a collaborative governance over a number of more distant Polynesian islands including Niue 1,500 miles to the northeast, the fifteen Cook Islands and the self-governing coral island colony of Tokelau, half-way to Hawaii. It claims jurisdiction over a part of Antarctica and islands between the two land masses. The natural wonders of this island paradise are endless and varied. Nature lovers, extreme sports enthusiasts and tourist types in-between all head to New Zealand for the same reason—the country's sublime outdoor riches. This is a world like no other, offering untamed timeless landscapes of warm turquoise waters and white sands, snowcapped peaks as high as 12,000 feet, glaciers, rugged fiords and the misty pristine rainforests of Tolkien's imagination. Because of the country's geographic isolation, 80% of New Zealand's flora and fauna are endemic, and about a third of its territory is protected within a reserve or park. This land at the ends of the earth is one of the first places in the world where one may see the sun rise. The first known settlement of New Zealand took place rather recently, around 1000 AD by inhabitants of eastern Polynesian islands who eventually became known as the Maori. They named their islands Te Ika-a-Maui or "The fish of Maui," now commonly called the North Island and Te Wai Pounamu or "The waters of Jade," now referred to as the South Island. Today the Maoris call their land Aotearoa, or "land of the long white cloud." It was the Dutch who first made the European discovery of New Zealand in 1642, calling the islands Nova Zeelandia after a Dutch province. The English followed some 125 years later, under Captain James Cook. The anglicized "New Zealand" became a crown colony of Great Britain in 1840 and an independent nation of the Commonwealth in 1907. While some British traditions continue to be followed, such as driving on the left side of the road, in some ways, the former colony very much goes its own way. In 1987, Parliament took the bold and political popular step of making New Zealand a nuclear-free zone. The Act prohibited nuclear weapons on it soil and nuclear-powered or nuclear-armed ships from entering its waters, resulting in a suspension of U.S. treaty obligations that remains in effect today. OFFICIAL NAME New Zealand GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE Constitutional Monarchy with a parliamentary democracy Parliament is unicameral, comprised of 120 members. The Prime Minister oversees the Cabinet. While the country has no written constitution; the Constitutional Act of 1986 describes its constitutional structure. LEADERS Head of State Queen Elizabeth II (of England) "rules but does no reign." Governor-General The Hon. Anand Satyanand who represents the Queen. Prime Minister The Rt. Hon. Helen Clark (1999-3rd successive term) New Zealand Labor Party Studied political science. In 2006, Forbes magazine called her the 20th most powerful woman in the world. Philosophically against marriage, she was pressured to formalize her longstanding partnership before her election to parliament. Sir Edmund Hilary said of her: "Our prime minister has been rather unique in being a great lover of the outdoors and she's always off climbing something, doing something…" POPULATION 4,181,000 (2006 est) CAPITAL Wellington Population 450,600 (2006 est) OTHER IMPORTANT CITIES (ranked by population) Auckland Christchurch Hamilton Dunedin Tauranga ETHNICITY New Zealand European (mostly British/Irish) 67.6% Maori 14.6% Asian 9.2% Pacific Islands 6.5% LANGUAGES English Maori New Zealand Sign Language LITERACY 99.9% LIFE EXPECTANCY Men 76.3 Women 82.3 RELIGION Christianity 60% Other including Ratana (practiced by Maoris) 1% No-religion or unknown 39% AREA 103,738 square miles (including off-shore islands but not other territories) PROTECTED AREAS National parks 14 Marine reserves 29 A number of forest parks, wildlife sanctuaries, scenic reserves and conservation areas also receive government protection. NATIONAL FLOWER Kowhai, a legume tree with eight species NATIONAL BIRD Apterygiformes-Ratitae, known as Kiwi Bird, endemic to New Zealand MAJOR INDUSTRIES Service industries (finance, insurance, tourism and business services) Goods-producing industries (such as food processing, wood and paper products, textiles and machinery) MAJOR AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS Dairy products Livestock and fish Forestry products Grains, fruits and vegetables HOLIDAYS 1/1 New Year's Day 2/6 Witangi Day(Commemorates signing of New Zealand's founding document 2/6/1840) March-April Good Friday March-April Easter (and Easter Monday) 4/25 ANZAC Day (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps: a Memorial Day for nation's soldiers in first landing at Gallipoli in WWI 1915) First Monday in June Queen Elizabeth II birthday 6/4 4th Monday in October Labor Day 12/25 Christmas 12/26 Boxing Day CUISINE Proximity to the islands' food sources makes New Zealand meals fresh and its numerous fish species among its delicacies. The New Zealand cuisine of the Europeans, or Pakeha, tends to be simple, most heavily reflecting the tastes of its British immigrant population. More recent ethnic influences from other European countries and elsewhere have broadened the menus in most cities to include a wide variety of offerings, and a fusion cuisine of European and Polynesian creations called Pacific Rim has developed. One famous Pakeha dish is Colonial Goose, really a stuffed leg of lamb that settlers devised as a make-do alternative to their traditional recipe back home. Indigenous cuisine takes its inspiration from Polynesian roots, though New Zealand's more temperate climate proved inhospitable to most tropical crops the Maoris tried to cultivate in their new land. A modernized version of the traditional hangi, or earth oven, consisting of hot stones in a dug pit, is still used today to prepare meat and vegetable dishes. Meat is also roasted over an open fire. For a mix of Pakeha and Maori cuisine, try the pork and sow thistle (puha), a chard-like herb, or "boil up," a soupy stew of pork, potatoes, kumara (sweet potatoes) and dumplings. Visitors should know that the term "tea" is sometimes used interchangeably with "dinner," the main meal of the day. Sweet desserts are a favorite in New Zealand. Hokey Pokey is the name of the country's most famous ice cream, vanilla, containing pieces of hard toffee. The term also describes the stiff foam-like sponge toffee that comes in different varieties including dipped in chocolate. New Zealand's renowned wines are produced in ten major areas. The highest quality varieties come from the dry climate of Marlborough on the northeast tip of the South Island, known for its Sauvignon Blancs, and the temperate climate of Hawkes Bay on the east coast of the North Island, famous for its Cabernets. For more information about New Zealand cuisine, check out the Edmonds Cookbook, a classic, first published in 1914. CURRENCY The country's unit of currency is the New Zealand dollar (NZD or NZ$), referred to as "the kiwi." TIME ZONE Seventeen hours ahead of US Eastern Standard Time. Daylight savings time is observed from the first Sunday of October through the third Sunday in March. INTERNATIONAL DIALING CODE 64 ELECTRICITY Electricity throughout New Zealand runs on 230/240 volts (50 hertz). Traveling to New Zealand Passport and visa requirements U.S. citizens visiting New Zealand must carry a passport valid for at least three months beyond the date of the scheduled departure from New Zealand. Citizens of many countries, including the U.S, are not required to obtain a Visitor's Visa if planning to be in New Zealand for less than ninety days. For more information see www.passportexpress.com or www.nzembassy.com. Immunizations No vaccinations are required recommended when visiting New Zealand, and the risk of contracting a communicable disease while there is no greater than if you stayed home. It is always advisable when traveling abroad to have routine vaccinations up to date such as influenza, chickenpox, polio, measles/mumps/rubella (MMR) and diphtheria/pertussis/tetanus (DPT) according to the schedule recommended by your physician or a travel medicine clinic. The Centers for Disease Control provides immunization information for travelers. www.cdc.gov. Customs Entry During the flight to New Zealand, a flight attendant distributes a New Zealand passenger arrival card to all passengers. At Passport Control, travelers are asked to show the completed form along with their passport and proof that of sufficient funds to travel in the country (either $1,000 per visitor per month or $400 per person per month with evidence of accommodations). Travelers planning to use a credit card as the primary means of obtaining cash during the visit should bring a current credit card statement as evidence of sufficient funds. Exit All travelers, aged 12 and over, departing from Auckland (excluding transit passengers in Auckland less than 24 hours) pay a departure tax of $25, payable in cash or by major credit card. From Wellington, the departure tax is $25 for travelers 12 and over and $10 for those between 2 and 11. Exchanging currency In cities, ATM machines are widely available at banks, currency exchange kiosks and major shopping areas. To withdraw cash using an international credit card or ATM card, the card must have a four-digit encoded PIN, so it's best to check with your bank before departure. All major credit cards are accepted in New Zealand and Travelers Checks are accepted at banks, hotels and some stores. A system of "Swedish Rounding" increases or decreases the cost of retail purchases by a few cents as a result of New Zealand's discontinuation of certain coins. A 12.5% goods and services tax (GST) applies to all purchases, exempt only on major items shipped home. Banks are open from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM Monday through Friday. Using electricity Electricity throughout New Zealand runs on 230/240 volts (50 hertz). Most hotels and motels provide 110 volt AC sockets (rated at 20 watts) for electric razors only. All other equipment and appliances require an adapter/converter. Power outlets only accept flat three two-pin plugs. For video cameras, we suggest packing an extra set of charged batteries. New Zealand Weather The northern areas of New Zealand are subtropical, and the south is temperate. You'll find December through February the warmest months, and June through August, the coldest. Summer temperatures range between 68 and 86F, and winter temperatures range from 50 to 59F. Weather can change quickly and unexpectedly. MULTI ACTIVITY TRIP, NEW ZEALAND TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Kayaking the Abel Tasman Landsborough rafting adventure Mountain Biking the Central Otago Rail Trail Milford Sound Hiking on the Franz Joseph Glacier Queenstown, adventure capital of NZ In a country known for sublime scenery and endless outdoor recreation opportunities, these fourteen extraordinary days show vividly why New Zealand is such a magnet for adventure travelers. Imagine this. With its temperate forest, aquamarine waters and golden sand beaches, Abel Tasman National Park makes a breathtaking backdrop for your unforgettable sea-kayaking adventure. The trip's two high-country mountain-bike excursions take place in equally unique areas, one a historic public reserve offering over ninety miles of flat trails with many bridges, tunnels and viaducts. Magnificently set in sunny climes, the glacier hiking experience has never been more enjoyable than on New Zealand's famous Franz Joseph. You'll visit four national parks, see the back-country by bicycle and enjoy close-up views of spectacular marine wildlife in some of New Zealand's most isolated and picturesque landscapes. You'll visit stunning Milford Sound, a place Rudyard Kipling considered paradise. And last, but by no means least, you'll spend three days in the secluded unspoiled Landsborough wilderness, rafting its exhilarating azure waters. This is a one-of-a-kind adventure on New Zealand's South Island is a trip you'll be talking about forever. Day 1 Arrive in Auckland, and catch a connecting flight to Nelson where a Southern Explorations representative will be waiting to take you to your lodgings adjacent to Abel Tasman National Park. This will be your base for the next two days. You’ll begin your stay with a welcome barbecue and a briefing about the upcoming sea-kayaking trip. See http://www.abeltasmanmarahaulodge.co.nz/abeltasmanaccommodation.html Sea kayak company http://www.seakayaknz.co.nz/guided.html Day 2 and 3 On these two unforgettable days, you'll take a guided sea-kayaking trip through idyllic Abel Tasman National Park, stopping for lunch and a swim. Seals and dolphins that frequent the coast often come to play along side the kayaks. (Bad weather alternative: Should sea and weather conditions make sea-kayaking undesirable, two days of hiking in beautiful Abel Tasman will be substituted. Travelers wishing to experience less kayaking and more hiking may kayak into the park and hike out.) Justin – second option just if bad weather or is this a customizing option? Day 4 Departing the Abel Tasman, you'll journey south to the wild-west coastal region, stopping to take a walk (or flying ride) across the Buller Gorge Swingbridge before traveling on to the lush lowland rainforests of Paparoa National Park. Here the famous limestone formations called Pancake Rocks are located, so named for their distinctive layering. You’ll explore the area and with luck see the blowholes in action. There may also be time for a long canoe ride in the national park. You'll spend the night nearby in waterfront lodgings. http://www.punakaiki-resort.co.nz/ Day 5 This morning's early drive continues south along the most rugged segment of New Zealand's stunning west coast where snowcapped mountains contrast with crashing waves and rainforest. Stop briefly in Hokitika, a town known for its crafts, to see jade (greenstone) carvings before going on to the island's dramatic glacier region. This afternoon you’ll get a close-up view of the Franz Josef Glacier in all its grandeur on a half-day ice hike through exotic blue tunnels, labyrinths and crevasses. If you prefer an equally spectacular aerial view, you may take a helicopter tour over the area and have the exciting experience of landing on a glacier. A relaxing night will be spent in a tranquil tree lodge retreat nestled in a six-acre rainforest. Starts at 12.30pm on Franz www.franzjosefglacier.com or 1.35pm on Fox www.foxguides.co.nz Rainforest Retreat tree lodge www.rainforestretreat.co.nz Alternative to glacier hike http://www.scenic-flights.co.nz/ the mid range flights Day 6, 7 and 8 This morning, you'll continue down the coast, arriving in the hamlet of Haast. From here you'll travel by helicopter or light plane to the remote Landsborough wilderness for a unique three-day rafting voyage. This experience is New Zealand’s best kept secret, combining adventure and scenic serenity with luxury and divine cuisine. The day after your arrival here, you'll embark on your journey down the Landsborough, reaching camp in the early afternoon to enjoy the rest of the day and a relaxing dinner after your satisfying day on the river. LANDSBOROUGH WILDERNESS RAFTING EXPERIENCE www.landsborough.co.nz Day 9 After breakfast and your final rafting segment, you'll return to civilization via stunning Haast Pass in the direction of Queenstown. Dense rainforests give way to the stark mountains of Mt. Aspiring National Park as you enter the Otago region, an area of high-country sheep stations (ranches), considered the adventure capital of New Zealand. Spend the night in conveniently-located Queenstown lodgings. The Glebe is the place for this group http://www.theglebe.co.nz Day 10 After your days in the wild, you'll welcome this free day in Queenstown, the heart of the southern lakes region. Here you may choose whatever optional activities you desire, relax in the cafes, enjoy a vineyard lunch, stroll along Lake Wakatipu or shop. Another overnight at your comfortable Queenstown lodgings. Day 11 You'll start the morning with a scenic boat trip across Lake Wakatipu and a drive up Mt. Nicholas before setting out on mountain bikes down a scenic trail. Your lodgings tonight will be in the resort town of Te Anau on the edge of New Zealand's largest national park, three-million acre Fiordland. Stay Explorer Lodge in Te Anau studio unit www.explorerlodge.co.nz Day 12 To reach the start of today's cruise through the dramatic landscape of Milford Sound, your drive takes you into some awe-inspiring mountains, crossing the main divide. By water is the best way to see this stunning glacier-carved landscape of cascading waterfalls, sheer cliffs that plunge into the ocean, the hanging valleys and glaciers. This afternoon you approach the final leg of your journey, and settle in to your comfortable trailside country lodgings on the Otago Rail Trail. Tiger Hill Lodge (Nick’s house) Day 13 Today you'll pedal along the Central Otago Rail Trail. Once linking Dunedin with the gold fields, this favorite isolated path for bicyclists ends in the historic center of Wedderburn. You'll enjoy a final dinner in this uniquely rural setting, where you and your fellow travelers will undoubtedly be reflecting on your New Zealand adventure-packed trip. You'll spend the night in the town of Wedderburn, or do they stay in one of the other adjacent tiny communities, or will they be returning to Queenstown for the night? Day 14 Transfer to the Queenstown airport for your connecting flight to Auckland for your international flight home. Depending on your departure, there may be time to stop in Queenstown for some last minute shopping. HIGHEND TOUR TOUR HIGHLIGHTS Abel Tasman National Park Whale watching in Kaikoura The cities of Christchurch and Dunedin Tranz Alpine train Over night Dusky Sound cruise Franz Joseph Glacier Larnach Castle The adventure capital of Queenstown Dart River wilderness jet boat safari Marlborough’s finest vineyards Few places on earth rival the natural splendor of New Zealand. There are the aquamarine waters, pristine beaches, the fiords, glaciers and fairytale wilderness landscapes. There's the range of magnificent marine wildlife and arguably the world's best whale watching site. On our luxury tour, you'll experience the mythical grandeur of New Zealand on visits to both coasts of the South Island. Plus you'll experience the country's sophisticated pleasures, its fine wines and picturesque alpine cities. Making a superlative trip even more memorable, you'll find the lodgings much to your liking, since these settings are every bit as spectacular as your adventures. If you find the lure of exotic lands and the familiarity of getting around in a language you speak an appealing vacation idea, then New Zealand is the place and this is the trip. Monday Day 1 You'll arrive in Auckland to catch a connecting flight to Nelson on the South Island's northern coast. After landing in this lovely sun-drenched region, a Southern Explorations representative will transfer you to your lodge near the Abel Tasman National Park, overlooking the golden sands of Kaiteriteri Beach. This beautiful seascape will be your base for the next two nights. http://www.kimiora.co.nz Tuesday Day 2 There could be no more blissful start to your New Zealand adventure travel than the magnificent Abel Tasman, with its temperate forest, aquamarine waters, and golden sand beaches. Take a guided hike along an easy coastal trail under canopies of gigantic tree ferns, or sea-kayak around secluded bays, stopping to stroll on the beach and take in the sea's tranquil beauty. If you prefer to relax, enjoy an interpretive cruise along the length of the park's coastline instead. We include a choice of Wilson’s Experience http://experiences.abeltasman.co.nz/ One day guided walk http://www.kahurangiwalks.co.nz/abel_explorer_mot.htm One day kayak tour http://www.abeltasmankayaks.co.nz/kayaking/atk_guided-day-tours/ Wednesday Day 3 Today you leave Abel Tasman behind and journey east to the Marlborough wine region, renowned for its world-class Sauvignon Blancs and Chardonnays. You'll spend most of the day on a private “Boutique Wineries Tour,” visiting some of the area's finest vineyards, with tastings and a delicious winery lunch. In keeping with the vineyard theme, your lodgings tonight are in The Vintners Retreat, with European-style villas overlooking a vineyard set in four acres of park-like grounds. http://www.marlboroughtravel.co.nz/index.cfm/wine_tours/private_wine_tour.htm http://www.vintnersretreat.co.nz/accommodation_stables.html Thursday Day 4 Today you'll continue south to the dramatic eastern Pacific coast and the seaside hamlet of Kaikoura. Wildlife is prolific here because the off-shore deep ocean Hikorangi Trench attracts diverse species to feed. After settling into your accommodations, you'll take a spectacular hike around the peninsula. The hike offers magnificent views, winding past unusual limestone formations where you may spot some playful New Zealand fur seals. Later, if you're feeling adventurous, you may don wetsuits and snorkeling gear to get a closer look at these darling but dangerous creatures. In Maori, Kaikoura means "to eat crayfish (lobster)," and tonight you'll have a chance to sample this local delicacy. You'll spend the night in a contemporary lodge surrounded by olive groves between mountain and sea. http://www.hapukulodge.com/lodge.php http://www.whitemorph.co.nz/ Friday Day 5 This morning by water or air, you’ll behold some of Kaikoura’s astonishing marine species in their natural habitat including the famed sperm whale. Choose a whale-watching flight, aptly named "Wings over Whales," or a fascinating boat trip to the feeding grounds of the area's sea birds, for a unique opportunity to view albatross, shearwaters and other pelagic wildlife at close range. Departing Kaikoura this afternoon, you'll journey south to the Canterbury region and the most British of New Zealand's cities, Christchurch. You'll spend the night in an elegant boutique hotel. http://www.whales.co.nz/ http://www.oceanwings.co.nz/albatross/ Saturday Day 6 Today you'll discover why Christchurch is known as "the garden city." The day is yours to explore this picturesque metropolis with the River Avon meandering through it. Enjoy the colorful open-air Arts Centre Craft Market, stroll through the botanical gardens and the extensive collection of the adjacent Canterbury Museum. Hire a "punt" (a flat-bottom boat with a "punter" oarsman) on the Avon, or ride the Mt. Cavendish Gondola for panoramic views of the city, the Southern Alps and the Canterbury Plains. You'll dine in a very special setting, the old Band Rotunda on the banks of the Avon where some of New Zealand's best cuisine is to be found. Another pleasurable night in your stylish luxury accommodations. http://thegeorge.com/home.htm http://www.heritagehotels.co.nz/christchurch/room-features/ Sunday Day 7 Today you'll experience a world-class rail journey on New Zealand’s famous coast to coast TranzAlpine Train. Crossing alpine rivers winding through lush beech rainforests and beneath the snowcapped peaks of the Southern Alps, you descend to the wild west coast region. A short drive along a stunning shoreline will take you to Paparoa National Park’s lush lowland rainforest of nikau palms, towering native forest giants such as the northern rata, rimu, and miro. The afternoon affords time to explore the area's features, including the famous layered limestone formations called Pancake Rocks. Spend the night in beachside comfort in modern accommodations where sunsets are glorious and nature outside your door. http://www.thetranzalpine.com/ http://www.punakaiki-resort.co.nz/ Monday Day 8 Today you'll witness more natural and manmade marvels. The drive south through New Zealand’s most rugged region is breathtaking. Snowcapped mountains contrast with crashing waves and rainforest for a unique combination of dramatic scenery found only on this part of the island. Continuing south, you'll reach the small town of Hokitika, the country's hub for jade carving, where you'll see artists at work and learn about the symbols of their creations. The next stop is the picturesque village of Franz Josef for a scenic flight over the glaciers, passing near New Zealand's highest peak, Mt. Cook (or Aoraki, mountain of Maori legends). There will also be time to hike along the glacial riverbed for a view of the imposing blue glacier face. In tonight's lodgings, you'll enjoy serene country elegance surrounded by magnificent views. http://www.glacier-retreat.co.nz/ http://www.scenic-flights.co.nz/ Tuesday Day 9 After breakfast, your travels continue, stopping for a short walk around nearby Lake Matheson where, on a clear day, Aoraki is beautifully reflected in the mirror-like waters. From here, it's a long but spectacular drive through Haast Pass on the way to Queenstown. Dense rainforests give way to the stark mountains of Mt. Aspiring National Park in the Otago region, home to high-country sheep stations (ranches), considered the adventure capital of New Zealand. Overnight in alpine elegance with deluxe amenities. http://www.heritagehotels.co.nz/queenstown/ Wednesday Day 10 This morning you’ll start with a gondola ride for panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu. The rest of the day is yours to explore Queenstown's many amenities. We'll help you plan your day according to your interests, whether that means whitewater rafting, bungee-jumping, a helicopter flight or hiking along wine trails. For a glimpse into New Zealand's farming life, this evening you’ll cruise across the lake on the vintage steamship, the TSS Earnslaw, to the Walter Peak station for dinner and an evening of entertainment. On your return cruise to Queenstown, you may relax with a drink from the bar or join a lively sing-along. Spend another night in your comfortable accommodations. http://www.realjourneys.co.nz/Main/Farm/ Thursday Day 11 This morning you'll depart on a thrilling Dart River Wilderness safari in Mt. Aspiring National Park. You'll be whisked by jet boat down the scenic Dart, surrounded by snowcapped mountains and pristine hillsides, stopping for a short easy walk through an eighty million year-old ancient forest. You'll have a free afternoon on your return to Queenstown where you'll spend a final night in your hotel. http://www.dartriver.co.nz/ Friday Day 12 This morning, you'll pack a bag for an overnight boat excursion to spectacular Fiordland National Park and Doubtful Sound. To get there, you'll drive along the shore of Lake Wakatipu and south to Lake Manapouri, where by boat, you'll reach the Manapouri power station. A bus will take you the rest of the way over scenic Wilmot Pass. Your vessel, the Fiordland Navigator, is a boat designed for cruising in fiords, with spacious viewing decks and observation areas to take in the magnificent scenery and the wildlife including fur seals, bottlenose dolphins, and the rarest of penguins, fiordland crested penguins often seen here. This remarkable journey will take you where few people go, to the very remote Doubtful Sound. If the weather co-operates, you may be able to kayak along the shoreline with a nature guide or swim. You'll enjoy delicious meals aboard. http://www.realjourneys.co.nz/Main/Doubtfulovernight/ Saturday Day 13 Wake up in the overwhelming beauty of the fiord and look for Dusky dolphins before heading back to Manapouri. The final leg of your magical New Zealand tour contains many unforgettable sights. You'll visit the South Island's second largest city of Dunedin, a dead-ringer for Scotland's Edinburgh. You'll see wildlife galore on Otago Peninsula, the Southern Hemispheres' only mainland breeding colony of royal albatross, as well as view Hooker's sea lions and a breeding reserve for the endangered yellow-eyed penguin. For your last night, you'll stay in historic Larnach Castle and enjoy a final fabulous dinner. The superlative accommodations of the castle's twelve view bedrooms, set in thirty-five acres of gardens, make this a most fitting and memorable of farewells. http://www.larnachcastle.co.nz/category.pasp?emGUID=BB388A7A347F4AEBB6B5517EF8496766&categoryid=1 Day 14 On this final morning, depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to visit the Taeroa Heads Royal Albatross colony for a guided tour. After a final stop in Dunedin to make some final purchases, you'll be taken to the airport for your connecting flight home. Which city's airport do they go to? Dunedin? http://www.albatrosses.co.nz/