New Zealand Women’s Volleyball Tour
Travel with our select volleyball team to New Zealand for an opportunity to experience the adventure capital of the world. Travel this country from the North to the South in 14 days of beautiful sight seeing and amazing adventures. Along the way we will play some exhibition games against local club teams throughout New Zealand.Tentative travel dates:
Sample Itinerary
Tenative dates
| Day | Event |
|---|---|
| 1 | “Haera Mai” Welcome to New Zealand. Meet and greet by AIST tour organizers. After a brief Auckland city sightseeing tour and crossing over the Auckland Harbour Bridge, we take in spectacular views of the Waitemata Harbour’s sparkling waters and understand why Auckland is fondly known as the ‘City of Sails’. Close by is the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, formerly the home of the Americas Cup. Further north, view the Hauraki Gulf, the waters on which the cup was defended and lost to the Swiss in 2003. |
| 2 | This morning we take in a city tour including a visit to Mt Eden, an extinct, urban volcano from which spectacular views of the city and the Waitemata Harbour are experienced. Auckland has many such geological features, all of which were once important Maori fortresses, or ‘Pa’, evidence of which can still clearly be seen today. In the Maori language, Auckland is known as Tamaki Makau Rau, the city of 100 lovers. It earned this name because it was a place desired by all and conquered by many. The Auckland region is an antipasto of environments laid out on a huge platter to make one amazing city, boasting three harbours, two mountain ranges, 48 volcanic cones and more than 50 islands. Auckland’s population is approximately 1.3 million, making it by far the largest city in New Zealand, with one third of the country’s entire population. Whilst on our city sights tour we visit Bastion Point for spectacular views of the Hauraki Gulf, Auckland Museum finishing off with the Sky Tower for amazing views of Auckland City.This afternoon we have our first game against a local school and after the game we have a after match function where we can get to know each other. We then make our way back to our accommodation and the evening is yours. GAME 1 and 2. |
| 3 | Today we start our journey south by passing over the Bombay Hills and then through the mighty Waikato Region to arrive at Waitomo Glow-worm Caves, where we will take an underground adventure walking through limestone caves and then boarding a boat for a ride through the glow-worm caves. After our underground adventure we continue on to Rotorua, travelling through the lush dairy farms of the mighty Waikato to arrive in New Zealand’s geothermal hotspot. Our journey meanders through fertile countryside towards Rotorua. We leave the farmlands of the Waikato and move into the Mamaku Ranges. Farming in this area started late because of a wasting disease affecting all livestock. This was eventually found to be caused by cobalt and selenium deficiencies in the soil. Once this was corrected by top-dressing, settlement by NZ European was rapid, and large areas, particularly to the south, are now in dry stock or dairying. Down into the Rotorua basin, an area of natural beauty and rich in cultural heritage, after visiting Agrodome sheep show, the evening we partake in a traditional Maori Hangi and Concert where we will learn about the Maori culture and even learn a Haka. |
| 4 | The morning is devoted to exploring the natural wonders of Rotorua! The land here overflows with both cultural and geological discoveries. The heat of the earth’s core literally oozes through the earth, which is what first attracted early Maori to the place. The geological processes in action created the lakes, mountains, and thermal springs. They bring life, and, in the past, have taken the same with immense displays of force, such as in the 1886 Tarawera eruption. First we explore the gushing geysers and boiling mud pools at the Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve. This reserve is part of a living village where Maori have harnessed the thermal resources for many generations. Close by is the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute where craftsman work wood in the traditional ways of their ancestors. Next we visit the Government Gardens and enjoy the views at the lake front, before playing the second match against a worthy local team. After our second game and after match function we make our way to the Polynesian Spa for a recovery swim, then the evening is yours to relax and take in the sights, sounds and smells of Rotorua. GAME 3 and 4. |
| 5 | This morning before leaving Rotorua, we visit Rainbow Springs, a native flora and fauna reserve. Here thousands of rainbow trout swim in crystal clear springs and native birds, including New Zealand’s national emblem, the Kiwi, abound. Continuing south, we journey through peaceful forests and past New Zealand’s largest freshwater lake, Lake Taupo towards a conservation area of major importance, the Tongariro National Park. Tongariro is New Zealand’s oldest national park and a dual World Heritage Area. This status recognises the Park’s important Maori cultural and spiritual associations as well as its outstanding volcanic features. It is a place of extremes and surprises, a place to explore and remember. From herb fields to forests, from tranquil lakes to desert-like plateau and active volcanoes – Tongariro has them all. No surprise is it that Peter Jackson chose Tongariro as a major filming site for the shooting of the Lord of the Rings. Mt Doom is here in all its fearful glory, in the shape of Mt Ngauruhoe. Onwards along the majestic desert plateau with a great view of the trio of mountains. Then on our way south we’ll wind through the Rangitikei and into the university city of Palmerston North where the horizon is dotted with windmills used for power generation. This windfarm is the largest of its kind in the Pacific region. |
| 6 | Situated on the banks of the Manawatu River nestled at the foot of the impressive Tararua Mountain Range, a growing city of 78,100, Palmerston North is a vibrant youthful city with the active student population, nearby Linton Military Camp, and several knowledge organisations. Since 1930 the establishment of Educational and New Research Institutes has broadened the City’s economic base. The city hosts an impressive range of educational institutions. The home campus of Massey University provides an enormous number of courses and supports research in many fields. This morning we visit the New Zealand Rugby Museum and also the Adidas Institute of Rugby which is a training camp for the All Blacks. This afternoon we continue south to Wellington. We travel via rural roads through fertile dairy farming land and the Kapiti Coast. Wellington City is compact, cultured and full of character. Nestled between the harbour and the hills, the downtown area is ideal for explorations on foot. Enjoy cafes, restaurants, museums and all kinds of shops. As New Zealand’s capital, this city is rich in political history. On arriving in New Zealand’s capital city, we visit key points of interest including Parliament Buildings, Mount Victoria, Lady Norwood Rose Gardens and the Botanical Gardens. We will also pay a visit to Te Papa, our National Museum. Tonight, enjoy the urban culture of Wellington, a city known for relaxed people and excellent restaurants. |
| 7 | The passage across Cook Strait and through the Marlborough Sounds is one of the most scenic ferry trips in the world. Highlights along the way include the Red Rocks seal colony, Tory Channel, Cook’s Lookout and the beautiful coves of the sounds. The picturesque seaside town of Picton is the South Island base for the ferry service that links the North and South islands of New Zealand. It’s also the gateway to the marine, forest and island attractions of the Marlborough Sounds. As we arrive in the South Island we travel via Blenheim which is well known for its world class vineyards. We have time to take an optional extra Kaikoura whale watching experience. This is either done by air or sea. Maybe you would like to try swimming with the dolphins in Kaikoura before we make our way further south. Have your cameras at the ready as seals and sea lions will be seen along the side of the road as we travel along the Kaikoura coastline towards Christchurch. This afternoon we descend down onto the Canterbury Plains to arrive mid afternoon in the south islands largest city Christchurch, which is proudly known as the ‘Garden City’. The rest of this afternoon is free to relax or wander around Christchurch. |
| 8 | You could be forgiven for thinking you were in England! Nostalgia influenced early immigrant city planners – Christchurch was built with England in mind. This morning we visit the Canterbury Factory where the world famous Canterbury Rugby Jersey is made and then visit Jade Stadium where we will tour through the hallowed home ground of the Super 14 Canterbury Crusaders. We may even be able to attend a training session of the Crusaders. The rest of the morning is free to relax and explore. Take in some of the many beautiful gardens, the Arts Centre or some of the fine attractions in the city. Perhaps relax while punting down the Avon River through the heart of the city. This afternoon we have our third game of the tour. GAME 5 and 6 |
| 9 | We travel further south this morning taking us out onto the lush rolling Canterbury plains, through Mackenzie Country, crossing over Burkes Pass and on into the high mountain country to Lake Tekapo. We visit the Church of the Good Shepherd with its wonderful stained glass windows framing the majesty of the mountains in the background. We pass Lake Pukaki and on to view Mount Cook where there is an opportunity to take an optional flight seeing excursion around Mount Cook before we make our way to our accommodation this evening in Queenstown Truly one of the most picturesque settings in the world. |
| 10 | This morning we explore Queenstown and included in this is a thrilling jet boat ride. For those with a daredevil approach to life there’s the worlds first Bungy jump site and many more adrenalin pumping activities. Head out across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station aboard the ‘TSS Earnslaw’ for morning or afternoon tea on a working sheep station. There is always plenty to see hear and experience in Queenstown ‘Adventure Capital of the World’. This evening we proceed up the Skyline Gondola to enjoy Luge rides followed by a full buffet dinner overlooking the world famous views of Queenstown with its surrounding mountains and Lake Whakatipu. |
| 11 | Invigorated from a day’s adventure, or refreshed from rest and relaxation in Queenstown, we depart for Dunedin, the “Edinburgh of the South”. As we take a tour of the City, don’t be surprised to hear or see a bagpiper wandering through the streets! Like Christchurch is to England, Dunedin is to Scotland! Later in the afternoon, those interested in a nature excursion can take the optional cruise aboard the Monarch to visit the Otago Peninsula which is renowned for its Albatross colony and various species of penguins, seals and pelagic birds. Enjoy a visit to the steepest street in the World, Baldwin Street, or a walk up it for those feeling fit. |
| 12 | Dunedin, a city that captivates and enchants, it is a city in which to linger and explore. Dunedin is known for such tourist attractions as the Taieri GoergeRailway, recognized as one of the world’s great train journeys, Cadbury Chocolate World or stately homes such as Olveston or the grandeur of Larnach Castle, standing as a sentinel atop the peninsula. After a morning sight seeing tour, it’s time to get ready for our final game of the tour. Tonight we have our farewell dinner where we have a presentation evening. GAME 7 and 8. |
| 13 | Traveling on east, we make our way towards the coast and enjoy a walk on the beach to view the enigmatic Moeraki Boulders. Debate continues as to how these formations came to be, their symmetry amazes even the most accomplished geologist. As we venture further north today we pass through the historic towns of Oamaru, Timaru which is home to the world famous Temuka stoneware and pottery factory. Lunch today is in the heart of rural Canterbury in the farming town of Ashburton. This afternoon it’s time to say “Haera Ra” (farewell) to Aotearoa: the “Land of the long white cloud”. We hope your tour has left you with plenty of great memories to reflect on in the years to come, of your spectacular adventure Down Under. |
| 14 | Depart New Zealand for return flight home. |
Top Sight seeing highlights included in cost:
Auckland city sights
MountEden and MissionBay
SkyTower
Waitomo Glow worm Caves
Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve
Maori Arts & Crafts Centre
Polynesian Spa
GovernmentGardens
Maori traditional Hangi (feast), Concert & Haka
Agrodome
Rainbow Springs
Waiotapu Mud Pool
HukaFalls and Craters of the Moon
WaiouruNew ZealandArmyMuseum
Te PapaNationalMuseum
MountVictoria and Parliament Grounds
Kaikoura coastline and natural wildlife
Canterbury Factory tour
Jade Stadium Tour
LakeTekapo and Church of The Good Shepherd
Mount Cook
Skyline Gondola & Luge Rides
Kawarau Jet Boat ride
Arrowtown (quaint historic gold mining town)
Baldwin Street (the steepest street in the World)
Moeraki Boulders
ChristchurchCity Tour
Canterbury Clothing Company Factory Tour
Other Inclusions:
- Round Trip airfare from Los Angeles, California
- 3 and 4 Star Hotel Accommodations
- Breakfast and dinner everyday
- Uniforms
- Tour package as listed on Itinerary
- Executive Coach Bus Transportation to be with team at all times
- Experienced Coaching Staff
- Local guide from New Zealand to be with group throughout tour
Not Included:
- Lunches
- Tours listed as optional
- Tips for bus drivers and guides (customarily $2 per day)
- Everything not listed on inclusions
Other costs incurred will depend on each individual’s spending habits. Connecting airfare to departure city, souvenirs and any personal expenses will not be covered by American International Sports Teams.
