Welcome to New Zealand & Australia CONTENTS 3 The APT Difference 4 Australia & New Zealand 6 New Zealand & Australia Experts 8 Iconic Hotels & Resorts 9 Tantalising Flavours 10 Enriching Experiences 11 SuperDeals 12 PREMIER ESCORTED VACATIONS 14 Freedom of Choice TM Sightseeing & Dining 16 New Zealand Wonderland 17 Days 20 New Zealand Highlighter 14 Days 22 Scenic Sights 12 Days 24 Great New Zealand Rail & Cruise Experience 16 Days 26 Southern Tourer 9 Days 27 Great Northerner 9 Days 28 Magnificent New Zealand 23 Days 32 Royal Tasman 12 or 9 Days 2 Image: explore the unique rock domes and peaks of Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) in Australia s Northern Territory
The APT Difference 98% Customer Satisfaction We are proud of the 98% satisfaction rating we receive from our travellers, and are committed to maintaining it. Fully Inclusive Prices & Guaranteed Departures Our land touring prices are fully inclusive, so you know where you stand with your vacation budget. Once your booking is confirmed, your price is guaranteed. All tours shown in this brochure have guaranteed departure dates as marked on the itinerary pages. Multi Award-Winning Tours APT has won numerous awards, including the 2012, 2013 and 2014 Best Domestic Tour Operator*, making it New Zealand and Australia s most successful touring company. Freedom of Choice TM Inclusions Choose from a range of activities and restaurants in select locations with Freedom of Choice TM Sightseeing and Dining. Enriching Experiences Truly immerse yourself in the destination with our cultural touring inclusions, as well as Signature and Insider experiences. Tour Director & Driver on all Escorted Tours All escorted tours feature a Tour Director and Driver who bring your tour to life with their knowledge and insightful commentary. Expert Local Guides There is simply no better way to see the sights than with a local guide, providing their unique insight into each destination. 34 VALUE-PLUS VACATIONS 36 New Zealand Getaway 15 or 12 Days 40 Southern Escape 8 Days 41 Northern Explorer 8 Days 42 East Coast Adventure 12 or 9 Days 46 Grand Australian Discovery 16 or 13 Days 48 Discover Australia 16 Days 52 Tasman Discovery 9 or 6 Days 54 South West Explorer 10 Days 56 Kimberley Wilderness Adventures Unforgettable Stays Stay in some of the most stylish resorts, hotels and lodges within bustling city centres or world-renowned natural wonders. When you travel with APT, you are invited to become a member of the APT Club, opening the door to a range of benefits and offers. 58 General Information & Conditions www.aptouring.com *Australian National Travel Industry Awards NEW ZEALAND & AUSTRALIA 3
2 Australia Come explore the magic of Down Under, a diverse land that offers something special for everyone. El Questro Take in the scenery of this million acre wilderness park. Bungle Bungle Range Discover the amazing sandstone formations. Red Centre See for yourself iconic Uluru (Ayers Rock). Discover the allure of Australia s untouched landscapes, ancient cultures, vibrant cities and unique wildlife. Australia s Diverse Landscapes From vast expanses of desert to lush tropical rainforests and miles of unspoilt beaches, Australia offers a truly diverse landscape. It s a vibrant and friendly country with a rich multicultural heritage. A stunning contrast of bustling civilisation and remote wilderness which is enhanced by a superlative food and wine scene. We give you the opportunity to witness some of the world s most picture-perfect panoramas in an everchanging landscape, as well as discover Australia s Indigenous population, with their rich storytelling culture and inherent values that are characterised by a reverence for the land. NINGALOO REEF PERTH Fremantle World Heritage Area Windjana Gorge Broome Pinnacles Nambung Mitchell Plateau El Questro Wilderness Park Albany Kalgoorlie Esperance DARWIN Kununurra Purnululu Geikie Gorge AUSTRALIA Kakadu Fitzroy Crossing NORTHERN Port TERRITORY Hedland Exmouth Karijini Kings Canyon Alice Springs Uluru-Kata Tjuta Kata Tjuta Uluru WESTERN AUSTRALIA SOUTH AUSTRALIA Port Douglas Cairns Mission Beach Townsville QUEENSLAND ADELAIDE NEW SOUTH WALES VICTORIA MELBOURNE Experience life on tropical islands with palm tree-lined beaches with crystal-clear waters, and gain an insight into a prosperous nation with visits to some of Australia s best-loved cities. Glorious natural wilderness areas provide ample opportunities for spontaneous wildlife encounters, and not just on the land. Below the surface of the shimmering waters of the Great Barrier Reef lies a bustling centre of marine life just waiting to be discovered. See one of the world s most spectacular harbours in Sydney, dominated by its magnificent Opera House and the iconic Harbour Bridge. The Kimberley region showcases spectacular gorges and rock walls of ancient Aboriginal art, while the Red Centre is an area that encompasses the very essence of Australia. And in Tasmania, embrace Australia s perfectly-preserved convict history and explore the pristine wilderness. Perth Soak up the laid-back spirit of Western Australia s capital. THE VAST CONTINENT OF AUSTRALIA San Francisco 2,441 miles AUSTRALIA USA Please note: map not to scale Washington D.C. Melbourne Discover a cosmopolitan city with an enticing spirit. Launceston TASMANIA HOBART Cradle Mountain View the dramatic landscapes of Cradle Mountain. 4 4
New Zealand Great Barrier Reef Be amazed by the world s largest coral reef. Bay of Islands Cruise around the stunning aquatic wonderland. Auckland Experience the delights of this beautiful harbour city. Unlike any place on Earth, this South Pacific gem is a natural work of art. Experience travel at its most inspiring GRE A T BARR I E R Rotorua Explore one of the world s most active geothermal regions. Wellington Enjoy the sights and sounds of New Zealand s capital city. in a land filled with breathtaking natural beauty, fascinating culture and cosmopolitan waterside cities. R E E F Daydream Island Airlie Beach Rockhampton Fraser Island Hervey Bay SYDNEY CANBERRA BRISBANE Gold Coast Byron Bay Port Macquarie Auckland Waitomo Caves Tongariro NEW ZEALAND Greymouth Bay of Islands Rotorua WELLINGTON Nelson Picton Franz Josef Glacier Christchurch Mt Cook Lake Tekapo Milford Sound Te Anau Queenstown Fiordland Dunedin Taupo Napier A Paradise Called New Zealand New Zealanders pride themselves on their hospitality and friendliness, and you ll feel instantly welcome here. With a population of just four million people, New Zealand is gloriously uncrowded, allowing its spectacular landscapes to take centre stage. With some of the most scenic touring routes in the world, it s just crying out to be explored. See snow-capped alps, tranquil fiords and lush rainforests. Visit river-laced lowlands, active volcanoes and pristine beaches. Traverse rolling green hills, subterranean caves and gargantuan rivers of crackling ice. Studded between these pristine wilderness areas are polished cities sporting world-class eateries, architectural marvels and Sydney Visit the famous harbour icons of this spectacular city. sights that need to be seen to be believed. The North Island is alive with Maori culture in Rotorua, whilst the South Island is steeped with natural beauty, home to the picturesque cities Milford Sound Cruise the majestic and picturesque Milford Sound. Queenstown The premier alpine resort for adventure and relaxation. Mt Cook Absorb the sheer beauty of Australasia s highest peak. of Queenstown and Dunedin. Thus, by nature, New Zealand is both a haven for those seeking peace and quiet and a playground for the adventurous. So join us and experience the diversity and wonders of The Land of the Long White Cloud for yourself. NEW ZEALAND & AUSTRALIA 5
New Zealand & Australia Experts Come travel with the region s most awarded, experienced and trusted tour operator. Our dedicated Tour Directors and Drivers ensure you enjoy an insightful and comprehensive vacation experience Enjoy Seamless Arrangements Taking a vacation with APT ensures you re looked after every step of the way. With over 86 years of experience behind us, APT has perfected escorted touring. Every detail has been thought of to ensure your vacation runs smoothly. You ll make the most out of your time and see more than you ever imagined. Exceptional Value & Quality Our tours represent the best value and offer exceptional quality in every aspect. From spectacular sightseeing and dining to stays in idyllic settings, you ll experience a standard of touring that belies the price. It s one of the reasons why our customer satisfaction rating is 98%. Dedicated & Passionate Team One of the most common comments from our guests is how friendly, knowledgeable and professional our Tour Directors, Drivers and local guides are when leading our journeys. It s the small things like a friendly smile in the morning and enjoying a laugh with guests on the road that make your vacation with APT truly special. Award-Winning Excellence APT continues to win accolades year after year, including the 2014 Best Domestic Tour Operator*. We ve also been awarded certification from Qualmark, Tourism New Zealand s official quality agency. *Australian National Travel Industry Awards 6
Explore New Zealand and Australia with the experts Tailor Your Dreams We not only offer a wide selection of exciting tours, we make sure you have the choice of travel options. On select tours, APT s Freedom of Choice TM Inclusions lets you follow your sightseeing interests and dining tastes. Regardless of your destination, we ve made sure you ll also have free time to pursue the things you love. Taking You There in Style Travel in premium air-conditioned coaches with all the modern conveniences, ample leg room and panoramic windows. With special access to attractions, and porterage and service charges included, all you have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy your journey. Kimberley Wilderness Adventures As an isolated frontier, travelling into Australia s remote Kimberley region requires specialist local knowledge and expertise. No other operator can offer the experience, network of lodges or access that we do so you can experience the real Kimberley, rather than merely brushing the surface. When APT first began escorting travellers around this remote region over 40 years ago, there was no permanent accommodation or network of staff so we created them, with minimal impact on the environment, and with respect for local communities. Today we offer expertly-crafted itineraries featuring all of the spectacular sights and hidden secrets we ve discovered since. See pages 56-57 for more details. NEW ZEALAND & AUSTRALIA 7
Iconic Hotels & Resorts Selected for their comfort, style and sensational locations, our properties add even more enjoyment to your vacation. Be immersed in lush rainforest near Franz Josef Glacier during a stay at the luxurious Te Waonui Forest Retreat Premier Escorted Vacations Our hotels and resorts offer a level of comfort, style and service that can only be found on an APT Premier Escorted Vacation. We ve hand-picked a number of prestigious properties to enhance your experience in New Zealand s spectacular South Island. Enjoy a luxurious rainforest getaway at the Te Waonui Forest Retreat in Franz Josef; absorb the spectacular scenery of Mt Cook National Park from your room at The Hermitage Hotel; and at the Novotel Queenstown Lakeside you ll stay in one of the world s most idyllic settings, where majestic snow-capped peaks provide a dramatic backdrop to stunning Lake Wakatipu. As you explore the North Island, enjoy the superb waterfront location of Copthorne Hotel & Resort Bay of Islands, plus stay in style in the heart of cosmopolitan Auckland at the Rendezvous Grand Hotel. In Australia s southernmost state, Tasmania, Cradle Mountain Lodge provides the ultimate wilderness retreat. Here, you ll retire to a private cabin surrounded by breathtaking native bush. Value-Plus Escorted Vacations On our Value-Plus Escorted Vacations, you ll stay in premium properties in prime locations. For instance, the breathtaking waterfront location of Peppers Bluewater Resort at Lake Tekapo makes for a memorable stay. And in the Bay of Islands, you ll stay overlooking the Waitangi Treaty Grounds at Copthorne Hotel & Resort. Kimberley Wilderness Adventures Experience a touch of luxury in the wilderness as you explore the Kimberley and Australian outback. Stay in a tented cabin with a private deck and ensuite at APT s exclusive wilderness lodges. 8
Tantalising Flavours Be treated to a culinary journey, as you enjoy the best of New Zealand and Australian cuisine in remarkable settings. Discover New Zealand and Australia s spectacular gourmet produce Outstanding Meals We understand that great meals enhance a vacation, which is why our included meals showcase the finest regional produce. Freedom of Choice Dining Adding dining flexibility to your vacation, and unique to APT, are our Freedom of Choice Dining Inclusions. Available on Premier Escorted Vacations, in select locations you can choose from a variety of exceptional restaurants and dining experiences. Look for this logo in selected itineraries. Feature Meals at no Extra Cost Our vacations also offer Feature Meals unique dining experiences set in amazing locations or that celebrate culinary traditions. Refer to the itinerary pages for details about the Feature Meals on offer. On select tours in New Zealand, you ll get to experience Maori hospitality in Rotorua with a traditional Hangi Feast, where food is cooked slowly in earth ovens. And in Te Anau, enjoy a special dinner featuring gourmet produce sourced from the Fiordland region. In Queenstown, perhaps cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Wakatipu on a vintage steamer to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a sumptuous carvery dinner. Alternatively, take a gondola ride up to Skyline Restaurant to enjoy a delicious buffet, as well as impressive views of the surrounding mountains and lake below. For those travelling to Tasmania, you re in for a tantalising treat. Hop on board the Lady Jane Franklin II for a luncheon cruise along the Gordon River, with views of World Heritage-listed wilderness. You can also indulge in a special gourmet barbeque in the beautiful coastal locale of Coles Bay during your time at Freycinet Lodge. NEW ZEALAND & AUSTRALIA 9
Enriching Experiences Really discover your destination and embrace its spirit. Immerse yourself in New Zealand s vibrant Maori culture APT offers the most immersive exploration of New Zealand and Australia. Offering you vacation memories of a lifetime, we ve included experiences that give you a true insight into the region, carefully selected for their cultural significance or regional insight. Cultural Experiences Experience authentic Indigenous cultures up close with our local guides. Visit the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park near Cairns and learn about one of the oldest continuous cultures in the world, embracing its deep and colourful spirituality. In New Zealand, discover the distinctive and diverse culture of the Maori people, who came from Polynesia over 700 years ago. You ll have the opportunity to indulge in a traditional Maori Hangi Feast and later, witness a spirited Maori performance of song and dance. Look for these logos in the itineraries. Signature & Insider Experiences You ll also embrace the true essence of the regions you visit with our included Signature and Insider Experiences. Visit a New Zealand dairy farm for a tour, then enjoy a hearty country meal; cruise along the full length of stunning Milford Sound; traverse the Southern Alps on the TranzAlpine train; sail the sublime Bay of Islands; explore Cape Brett and the Hole in the Rock; and marvel at Australasia s highest peak, Mt Cook. In Australia, explore the penal colony of Port Arthur in Tasmania; immerse yourself in the alpine wilderness at Cradle Mountain; get up-close to crocodiles at Australia Zoo; snorkel amongst brilliant coral on the Great Barrier Reef; and enjoy 360-degree views of Sydney Harbour at the top of Sydney Tower. Look for these logos in the itineraries. 10
SuperDeals Great Choice, Great Savings Book Early! EARLYBIRD SAVINGS Book your dream vacation early and you will enjoy great savings on Premier and Value-Plus Escorted Vacations of New Zealand and Australia. Book and pay deposit by 31 March 2015. SAVE UP TO $950 * PER COUPLE on APT Premier Vacations SAVE UP TO $450 * PER COUPLE on APT Value-Plus Vacations SUPERDEAL SAVINGS BOOK EARLY, PAY NOW & SAVE! Book now for travel in 2015/16 and save when you book and pay early for your escorted vacation. Save 10% if you book and pay in full 12 months before your tour departure date*. SAVE 10% Save 7.5% if you book and pay in full 10 months before your tour departure date*. SAVE 7.5% Save 5% if you book and pay in full 6 months before your tour departure date*. SAVE 5% EXTRA TOUR DISCOUNT* APT will reward you when you book more than one SAVE tour from this brochure at the $100* same time. For PER COUPLE your second or subsequent tour, you ll save $100 per couple or $50 per person. SOLO TRAVELLERS SAVE! If you re happy to share a room with a solo traveller of the SAVE same gender, you UP TO won t pay a supplement. If we PER PERSON then can t find you a room-mate, we ll give you a single room at no extra cost. $3,000* SAVE MORE WHEN YOU BECOME A CLUB MEMBER! From the moment you book your first vacation of seven days or more, we welcome you to the APT Club. Membership will entitle you to further savings on future tours and to a night s complimentary accommodation. # *All discounts shown apply to APT escorted vacations, Premier or Value-Plus escorted vacations and to Kimberley Wilderness Adventures as shown in this brochure. They do not apply to Pre & Post Accommodation. All savings shown are per couple (except Solo Travellers offer), and based on twin share for travel 1 April 2015 to 31 March 2016. Earlybird and Early Payment discounts may not be combined. All offers subject to availability at time of booking. Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Earlybird Savings book and pay your deposit by 31 March 2015. Earlybird Savings based on the following tours: Premier Escorted Vacation tour NZCAN23; Value-Plus Escorted Vacation tour NT15. Solo Travellers save up to $3,000 based on Premier Escorted Vacation tour NZCAN23, all meals per itinerary price. # Applicable to Platinum membership. For further information, see our website at www.aptouring.com/aptclub. NEW ZEALAND & AUSTRALIA 11