Midwinter Christmas in New Plymouth 2026

24-26 June 2026

New Plymouth is our midwinter destination for 2026

Offering a wonderful range of activities and experiences to help us celebrate the season with flair and fun. Nestled on the west coast of the North Island, this vibrant coastal city provides the perfect setting for a memorable winter escape, combining stunning natural scenery, fascinating attractions, and warm hospitality. From exploring local highlights to enjoying great food and company, this midwinter getaway promises a refreshing and enjoyable break away.

Day 1

Wednesday 24 June - Scenic Beginnings to New Plymouth

With an early start this morning, you will be collected from your door as
we begin our journey together to the welcoming Woolshed Café, where
a delicious lunch awaits. This is the perfect opportunity to relax after
the morning’s travel and take the time to mix and mingle with fellow
travellers. We then continue our travels towards the vibrant coastal city
of New Plymouth. Our route takes us along the picturesque Surf Coast
Highway, renowned for its rugged coastline, rolling farmland, and
expansive ocean views. Keep your camera handy as we journey along
this scenic stretch—on a clear day, we may be treated to breathtaking
views of the majestic Mount Taranaki, rising dramatically from the
landscape and often regarded as one of New Zealand’s most iconic
natural landmarks.
As we arrive in New Plymouth, we take time to drive past the striking
Len Lye Centre. This award-winning contemporary art museum is as
impressive on the outside as it is within. Following our drive by, we
make our way to the Plymouth International Hotel, where we will be
staying for two nights.
This evening, we gather to enjoy a delicious in-house dinner, providing
another chance to unwind, share the day’s experiences, and look ahead
to the adventures still to come.

Day 2

Thursday 25 June - Taranaki Highlights & Indulgent Experiences

Today promises a wonderful mix of nostalgia, local highlights, and
indulgent experiences. We begin the day with a visit to the fascinating
Holden Museum, where we enjoy a guided tour through an impressive
collection of classic Holden vehicles and memorabilia. This unique
experience offers a glimpse into New Zealand’s motoring history and is
sure to spark fond memories. To add to the charm, we also enjoy a
delightful train ride, making this visit both engaging and memorable.
From here, we continue with a scenic drive out to the iconic Te Rewa
Rewa Bridge. Known for its striking, wave-like design, this pedestrian
bridge is beautifully set against the surrounding landscape and perfectly
frames views of Mount Taranaki on a clear day. It’s a fantastic photo
opportunity and a chance to stretch your legs while taking in the fresh
coastal air.
Lunch is at Arborio Restaurant, located within the renowned Puke Ariki
Museum. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to discover Taranaki’s rich
heritage and natural history through engaging exhibits. This central
location also provides easy access to the award-winning Coastal
Walkway—perfect for a gentle stroll along the waterfront, taking in
ocean views, public art, and the lively atmosphere of the city.
In the afternoon, we regroup for a special experience at Juno Gin,
where we enjoy a tasting tour. Discover the craft behind this locally
produced gin, learn about the distillation process, and sample a
selection of unique flavours in a relaxed and social setting.
We then return to our hotel, where you’ll have time to unwind and
refresh before the evening’s festivities. Tonight, we enjoy a festive
Christmas-style dinner at the hotel’s in-house restaurant - a wonderful
way to celebrate, share stories from the day, and enjoy great food and
company.

Day 3

Friday 26 June - Timeless Heritage & A Memorable Farewell

Today we begin with a visit to the beautiful Taranaki Cathedral Church
of St Mary, one of the region’s oldest and most treasured landmarks.
Here, we enjoy a private guided tour, learning about the cathedral’s rich
history, striking architecture, and its important role within the local
community. Take time to admire the intricate details and peaceful
atmosphere of this special place.
After our visit, we begin our journey home, travelling inland via the
charming town of Stratford. Along the way, we’ll make a stop for a
classic “Tranzit cuppa” — a chance to stretch your legs, enjoy a warm
drink, and share a few more laughs with your fellow travelers.
We then continue on to Bushy Park Homestead, a hidden gem known
for its lush native forest and tranquil surroundings. Here, we pause to
enjoy a final get-together feast, celebrating the journey we’ve shared.
There will also be time for a gentle stroll through the grounds, offering
a relaxing end to our time away. With wonderful memories made and
new friendships formed, we then continue our journey home.

The cost of the tour includes

  • Two night’s accommodation at the Plymouth International (4 star qualmarked)
  • Two 2 course meal both evenings
  • Full buffet breakfasts
  • Morning teas
  • All coach travels
  • Lunch at Woolshed Café
  • Holden Museum Tour and Train ride
  • Lunch at Arborio Restaurant
  • Puke Ariki Museum Guided Tour
  • Juno Gin - Tastings Tour
  • Taranaki Cathedral Guided Tour
  • Lunch at Bushy Park Homestead

Departure Detail

Before you book a tour with Tranzit Tours, please take the time to read and understand these Terms and Conditions below.

Pricing Validity
All costs associated with each tour are outlined in full within each tour itinerary. All pricing quoted is valid for the dates of tour when booked.

Reservations and Payments
Bookings for all Tranzit tours can be made through any Tranzit Coachlines Reservations Centre or an approved Travel Agent. Any person making a booking for others shall be deemed to have accepted these Terms and Conditions on behalf of all individuals they are booking on a tour and it is the responsibility of the person making the booking to bring these Terms and conditions to the attention of those individuals booked.
A deposit as stated in the Tour Itinerary is payable to secure the booking.
The balance must be paid in full by the date stated in the Tour Itinerary.
Any reservation made within fourteen (14) days of the tour departure must be paid in full at the time of booking.
Cancellations, Postponements and Alterations
Cancellations by the Customer
Cancellations 45+ days before tour departure date – a cancellation fee valued at 15% of your deposit, plus any other fees charged by other providers such as accommodation, ferry, activities etc.Cancellations 44 – 8 days before tour departure date – a cancellation fee valued at 15% of the total tour cost, plus any other fees charged by other providers such as accommodation, ferry, activities etc.
Cancellations within 7 days before tour departure date – a cancellation fee valued at 25% of the total tour cost, plus any other fees charged by other providers such as accommodation, ferry, activities etc.No refunds will be made for cancellations made within one day of departure or once travel has commenced. Refunds will not be provided for unused portions of a tour, unless the Customer can provide genuine reason and documentary evidence that services were unable to be utilised (and a refund if applicable is available from the other provider) in which case the company will review each request and may provide a partial refund at the sole discretion of the company.
Cancellations of one half of a twin share booking will result in the Customer cancelling being charged the cost of a single booking, if the Company is unable to match the twin share booking with another Customer.

Alterations by the Customer
The Customer may transfer their booking to another person for the same tour and commencement date, but only if the other person satisfies all of Tranzit Tours requirements in relation to the tour and provides us a completed Booking Form. The Customer must notify Tranzit Tours in writing of the intended transfer at least 30 days prior to the commencement date of the tour. A $60 transfer fee per person/per transfer will apply (in addition to any supplier change fees).

Cancellations or Postponements by the Company
Tranzit Tours reserves the right to cancel, reschedule or postpone a tour. With the exception of the Force Majeure section below, Tranzit Tours will:In the event of a tour being cancelled by the company prior to departure and not postponed – refund the total amount paid in respect of that tour or provide a credit, but will have no further liability to the Customer.
In the event of a tour being postponed – rebook the Customer for the new departure date or provide a credit, but will have no further liability to the Customer.
In the event of a Force Majeure event that occurs prior to, or during, a tour such as but not limited to fire, flood, volcanic eruption, earthquake, avalanche, severe weather, power outages, labour disruptions, pandemic, government controls or other events outside Tranzit Tours control that interrupts the ability to operate the tour in full or in part, or if Tranzit Tours determines that the quality of the tour or the health and safety of the Customer would be compromised, Tranzit Tours reserves the right to cancel, postpone, or shorten the tour and will be excused and released from its obligations without liability of any kind. Customers will receive a credit for postponed tours. For cancelled or shortened tours, refunds in these circumstances will be in full less any unrecoverable costs (i.e. expenses already incurred or fees charged by other providers).
The Customer will be advised of any increased tour costs as a result of the postponement. Credits will be equal to the value of the payment made and must be used within 12 months. Customers are strongly advised to take out travel insurance.
In the event of cancellation or postponement by the company, Tranzit Tours is not responsible for any consequential loss incurred by the Customer. Customers are again advised to take out travel insurance.

Alterations by the Company
Before Tour Commencement: If a major change to the tour needs to be made before departure, we will inform the Customer of the change as soon as practicable and will advise of any consequential price increase or decrease.Tranzit Tours reserves the right to alter a tour (including the itinerary) and substitute accommodation facilities should unforeseen circumstances beyond our control make changes necessary. Whilst every effort is made to adhere to the itinerary as provided, the company reserves the right to alter the touring and attractions as dictated by circumstances and conditions outside the company’s control.  Alterations may be made to ensure the smooth running of the tour.  Every attempt will be made to ensure alterations do not adversely affect the operation of the tour.  The company will not be held responsible for weather-based cancellations, or those closures made at the tour provider’s discretion.
Tranzit Tours will inform the customer as soon as practicable and will advise of any consequential price increase or decrease.

Insurance
Tranzit Tours recommend that you purchase comprehensive travel insurance to cover against things like lost or damaged luggage, accident or sickness, loss or theft of personal belongings and documents, or the need to cancel or shorten your tour.  Please note that special conditions will apply for pre-existing medical conditions with all travel insurance policies.

Health and Fitness
Tranzit Tours are generally able to accommodate most fitness abilities; however, some tours may require a certain level of physical fitness for full enjoyment of tour activities. The Customer must inform Tranzit Tours, at the time of booking, of any health or fitness restrictions that may limit participation of tour activities or put the Customer, tour staff or other customers at risk. The Customer acknowledges that their suitability for a tour, or any activity within a tour, is wholly the Customer’s responsibility.
Payment of a deposit by the Customer to secure a Tranzit Tour acts as a warranty that:
o   the Customer is reasonably healthy and/or fit to participate in the tour, and
o   the Customer does not have a health, physical condition or disability that would create risk to themselves, tour staff or other customers, and
o   the Customer indemnifies Tranzit Tours from all actions, claims and demands arising out of any want of health or fitness.
Tranzit Tours reserves the right to decline a booking on medical, health or fitness grounds at its sole discretion.
Tranzit Tours reserves the right to remove a Customer from a tour, or quarantine a Customer on tour, if their health and/or fitness interferes with the tour or staff safety or other Customers safety or tour experience in any way. Any additional costs associated with a Customer’s removal from tour or placement into quarantine, shall be borne by the Customer. Refunds will be made in accordance with these Terms and Conditions. 

Authority on Tour
Tranzit Tours are operated by staff with decision making authority while on tour. By travelling with Tranzit Tours, you agree to accept the authority of the driver/guide and their decisions are final in all matters likely to affect the wellbeing, safety or experience of any customer or staff member on board. Failure to adhere to reasonable requests or any inappropriate behaviour that is degrading the experience of other customers, may result in the Customer being removed from the tour. If a Customer is asked to leave a tour, any costs associated with returning home will be borne by the Customer and any unused portion of the tour will not be refunded.

Responsibilities
Tranzit Tours include goods and services provided by other operators such as hotels, attractions and transportation companies. Customers are advised to familiarise themselves with the terms and conditions on which these services are supplied. Accordingly, Tranzit Tours will not be responsible and will be excluded from liability for any loss, damage, omission or acts being negligent or otherwise, committed by other goods and service providers used in connection with the tour.
Tranzit Tours is not liable for any loss, damage, delay, or injury caused to the traveller or their baggage whilst under the care or control of a third-party provider. A Customer’s baggage and personal effects shall be carried at the owner’s risk as provided for under the Carriage of Goods Act.
Tranzit Tours is not responsible for any losses or additional expenses to the Customer due to tours impacted by Force Majeure events that occur prior to, or during, a tour such as but not limited to fire, flood, volcanic eruption, earthquake, avalanche, severe weather, power outages, labour disruptions, pandemic, government controls or other events outside Tranzit Tours control that interrupts the ability to operate the tour in full or in part, or if Tranzit Tours determines that the quality of the tour or the health and safety of the Customer would be compromised.

Acceptance of Risk
The Customer acknowledges that all Tranzit Tours may be subject to risks and dangers beyond that which might be experienced by the Customer at home. Except as provided in law, the Customer acknowledges that they assume all risk and Tranzit Tours is not liable for misadventure, death, injury, delay or loss which occurs during the tour.

Seat Rotation
For the enjoyment of all travellers Tranzit Tours operates a seat rotation system which all travellers must participate in as a condition of booking.

Photographs
Photographs used to market any Tranzit Tour depict typical scenes experienced, but the subject matter may not necessarily be seen or experienced whilst visiting a destination within a tour.
Whilst on tour, the Customer may be included in photographs and/or film taken by the guide or driver. These photographs may be used for future promotional advertising purposes and by booking on a Tranzit Tour the Customer authorises the use of any images they are captured in to be used without further consent or any payment of any kind. If the Customer does not authorise the use of their image for promotional purposes, they must make this known at the time of booking.

Privacy Policy
Any personal information that Tranzit Tours collects about the Customer may be used for any purpose associated with the operation of a tour or to send the Customer marketing material in relation to Tranzit Tour products. The information may be disclosed to our agents, service providers or other suppliers to enable Tranzit Tours to operate the tour. Tranzit Tours will otherwise treat your details in accordance with our privacy policy (available on our website).

Applicable Law
The laws of New Zealand govern these Terms and Conditions to the fullest extent allowable.


"This tour ticked all the boxes for me. Particularly the road from Cromwell to Dunedin which I had not traveled before." Betty