This September, nine of our top Chinese Inbound Tour Operators (IBO's) are embarking on a West Coast Trade Famil focusing on products that best align with the Chinese market.
Itinerary
The trip kicks off with the scenic TranzAlpine Train journey from Christchurch to Moana (Lake Brunner). Upon arrival, Explore West Coast will greet the group and provide transfers for the duration of the famil. The first day includes a site inspection of Hotel Lake Brunner and lunch at the Kingfisher Bar & Restaurant. The journey then continues to Greymouth for a site inspection of the Copthorne Hotel, followed by a visit to Punakaiki's iconic Pancake Rocks and Blowholes Track. Dinner will be at the Oceanview Restaurant, with an overnight stay at Scenic Hotel Punakaiki.
Day two brings more adventure, starting with a trip through Shantytown Heritage Park, offering a glimpse into the region's gold mining past. After a site inspection of Beachfront Hotel Hokitika and lunch at the Hokitika Sandwich Company, the group will experience a twin helicopter flight with Heliservices.NZ over Franz Josef Glacier, providing incredible aerial views. In Fox Glacier, they'll view Heartland Hotel Glacier Country and Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier, followed by a site inspection at Rainforest Retreat. The day concludes with accommodation at Legacy Te Waonui Hotel and dinner at the Blue Ice Restaurant and Bar.
The penultimate day is packed with West Coast highlights. It begins with an Off-Road Adventure with Franz Josef Wilderness Tours, followed by a special VIP Backstage Pass experience at the West Coast Wildlife Centre, offering insights into kiwi conservation. The group then returns to Hokitika for the thrilling West Coast Treetop Walk & Tower Zipline Combo. The day ends with a relaxing night at the Maruia Hot Springs.
On the final day, agents can enjoy the sauna and bathe at Maruia Hot Springs before departing for Christchurch International Airport.