APT spotlights the options in NZ

The choice of local tours, local restaurants, and the different styles of “Premier Escorted” and “Premier Plus Escorted” tours spotlight the flexible nature of product in APT’s New Zealand 2012-13 brochure out this week.

In Queenstown for example, seven local tours are listed in APT’s hallmark Freedom of Choice Touring and 14 restaurants are on the list for Dine Around Dinners.

The brochure — which launches with a range of early booking deals worth up to $1700 a couple and half price single supplement on select tours — carries six tours covering both islands, three of the south island and one of the north island.

The tours are branded “Premier Escorted” or “Premier Plus Escorted”, the latter of which denotes first class accommodation, a la carte dining at the finest restaurants and small group touring (up to 30 passengers).

“There are many ways to personalise an APT New Zealand tour,” said Ms Fox. “Whatever the choice, New Zealand is packed with ‘wow’ experiences which we’ve covered in our itineraries.”

Apart from the flexibility, APT says key selling features are Maori cultural experiences (including Waitangi Treaty Grounds and Hangi style feast), InterIslander Ferry, Tranzalpine Train, Mt Cook National Park and The Hermitage (a highlight for APT passengers), Franz Josef Glacier and Milford Sound Cruise.

Lead-in Premier Escorted tour is the 18-day Royal Tourer, priced from $5395 which includes premier accommodation (featuring five two-night stays), 30 meals, luxury coach touring with tour director and driver, Freedom of Choice Touring in seven locations, Dine Around Dinners in Queenstown, local guides, entrance fees, tipping and airport transfers as well as APT “Signature Experiences” such as exploring the Bay of Islands on a dolphin watching catamaran cruise and cruising the full length of Milford Sound.

The lead-in Premier Plus Escorted tour is the 21-day Grand New Zealand Experience (from $7645).

In the Premier Plus Escorted category, APT bills Edgewater Wanaka, two nights’ at Sofitel Queenstown and The Hermitage Mount Cook as “APT Exclusives”.

Agents contact 1300 278 278, see www.aptgroup.travel or contact your local BDM.