From £3,950

1^st & 2^nd Tests, Auckland & Christchurch

Sun 18 March – Wed 04 April 2018

Take in both Tests of the series in New Zealand’s two most iconic cities. Start in Auckland – the North Island’s beautiful ‘City of Sails’ – for the historic first day/night Test match to be held in NZ, at the legendary Eden Park. We then fly to the South Island’s rejuvenated gem of a city – Christchurch – for the 2nd Test at Hagley Oval. Along the way, enjoy superb sightseeing days (included) and convivial functions. Following the conclusion of the 2nd Test, you have the option to join our escorted South Island Highlights extension.

TOUR PRICES (per person, excluding international flights and match tickets*)	Double/Twin	Single
1st & 2nd Tests, Auckland & Christchurch	£ 3,950	£ 5,350

*Match tickets will be invoiced at cost price when released

Auckland

Viaduct Harbour

Eden Park

Avon river, Christchurch

Botanical Gardens

Hagley Oval, Chirstchurch

ITINERARY

Sunday 18 March

Fly UK to New Zealand

Because of the range of choices, we do not include the international flights in our tour price. However, we can arrange them for you taking into account your closest UK departure point, airline preference, class of travel and/or stopovers you may wish to make. Contact us to discuss your requirements. You are also free to book your own flights and/or use frequent flyer points. Whichever way you choose, you will be met at the airport on your arrival into NZ and whisked to your hotel by private transfer.

Monday 19 March

In flight

bBreakfastLLunchdDinnercCocktail party

Tuesday 20 March

Arrival in Auckland

On arrival in Auckland, you will be privately transferred to the Pullman Hotel for check in. Remainder of day is at your leisure to recover from the long journey.

Wednesday 21 March bc

This morning join us for a guided tour of the “City of Sails”, including visits to Bastion Point, Parnell Village and Viaduct Harbour, followed by a cruise on the harbour.
This evening, get to know your fellow tourists a little better at our ‘Welcome’ Cocktail Party. Canapés and drinks included.

Thursday 22 – Monday 26 March b

1^st Test, Eden Park, Auckland (Day/Night)

The Test series gets under way today at an unfamiliar time, as Eden Park hosts New Zealand’s first day/night Test match. With relatively short boundaries, we may well see some fireworks from the likes of Ben Stokes! Daily coach transfers are included.

Friday 23 March bc

Before the cricket, we will host a private ‘Cricket’ cocktail party where you will have the opportunity to hear the opinions of, and meet and chat personally with, our cricket celebrity guest. Drinks & canapés included.

Tuesday 27 March b

Today we transfer to the airport for our flight to Christchurch for the 2nd Test. On arrival in Christchurch, we will be privately transferred to the Crowne Plaza Hotel for check in. Remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore this lovely city.

Wednesday 28 March bc

Today we take you on a guided half day tour of the city of Christchurch. Learn about the effects of the 2011 earthquake and see how the city is rebuilding.
This evening join us for our ‘Welcome to Christchurch’ Cocktail Party. Canapés and drinks included.

Thursday 29 March b

A day at leisure to explore Christchurch at your own pace. You may like to go whale watching at Kaikoura or take the Tranz Alpine Railway to Arthurs Pass and Greymouth (supplement payable).

Friday 30 March – Tuesday 03 April b

2^nd Test, Hagley Oval, Christchurch

The 2^nd Test will be held at the Hagley Oval – Christchurch’s new international cricket ground following the catastrophic earthquake damage to Lancaster Park/AMI Stadium. The new ground is much more of a cricket ground and less of a stadium, so the ambiance is perfect for Test cricket. And being located in the middle of Hagley Park means you can choose to either walk from the hotel alongside the River Avon (25 mins) or take our daily coach transfer.

Saturday 31 March bc

This evening we will host a private ‘Cricket’ cocktail party/forum where you will have the opportunity to meet and chat personally with our celebrity cricket guest. Canapés and drinks are included.

Tuesday 03 April bd

Join us this evening for our celebratory farewell three course dinner with drinks included.

Wednesday 04 April b

Today say farewell to Christchurch as you depart either on your return flight to the UK or continue onto our South Island Highlights optional tour.