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Hello out there in Travel Club land. I trust everyone is keeping warm and well , two things that are always a bit of a challenge at this time of the year.
Regardless, its good to get out and about and enjoy a bit of fresh air and the company of others. I for one find it seems to help get me through the
wintry months.
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You can tell life is getting a bit mundane when you get excited about successfully getting the washing dry!! Definitely a sign we need to get out more! That’s where the travel club comes in. Our aim is to provide a wide range of day outings and other entertaining events to suit as many different tastes as we can. Having a day out or an evening’s entertainment to look forward to gives us all a lift.
Recent excursions:
Mallory took a small group of fellow ballet enthusiasts to the contemporary Carmen recently, with varied feedback, from fantastic through to just a little too “modern” for some tastes. All agreed however, that the dancing was superb. Swan Lake on Ice meanwhile, a sell out ...superb...stunning...and ..beautiful…” were commonly heard adjectives used to describe this performance. One keen and regular goer described it as the BEST show she has ever been to. High praise indeed. And most recently our day outing to Historical Petone provided stunning Wellington weather (yes, it’s true) and an interesting day in the hands of an enthusiastic group of historians.
Read on and plan your next treat…..
Kind regards, Ali, Kath & Team
Receive your newsletter via Email
Remember we are now set up to send our newsletter via email. It’s quicker, cheaper, and you can help save a tree at the same time…. The simplest way to advise is to send me an email. Easy peasy. ali@tranzit.co.nz
Coming Day Trips
Close to Home
Thursday, 26 August
We start our day with morning tea at Rangimarie, Dalefield, featuring a large country garden, totara slab hut, and even a model train. We have time this morning also to view Carterton’s new Outdoor Art Gallery. We then take a short trip to visit Carrington Garden, featuring historic trees and garden laid out in 1912 by Alfred Buxton. Also notable as hosting the 2009 Sculpture in the Country event. Lunch today is a finger food luncheon (included) at the
popular Devine at Clareville. We have time to visit Clareville nursery before returning to Masterton mid afternoon.
Departing Masterton at 9.30am. Returning to Masterton by 3pm.
Note: If you are booking from South Wairarapa please ring to discuss transport options we have available for you to join this trip.
Price $32.00 with $25.00 prize draw
Includes morning tea, lunch & entries
Spring is Here
Thursday, 9 September
Travelling to Palmerston North today, we enjoy all that is the 6th NZ International Orchid Extravaganza at the Arena Manawatu. This is not another flower show - orchids are unexcelled in the plant world for diversity of shape, size and colour. Orchid lovers are unmatched in the innovative ways in which they display their treasures. There are also quality stalls with a superb selection to suit everyone, orchids, daffodils, dahlias, succulents bromeliads/Tillandrias, Lavendars etc., and pots. Crafts, glass, wood, outdoor furniture, chocolate & sweets, and many more treats. There is even an orchid potting demonstration mid morning. Food and refreshments are available on site (own cost), or alternatively we suggest you bring your own. Early afternoon we get some fresh air at Mount Lees Reserve, near Sanson. This area provides the visitor with a stroll through bush paths and private gardens, containing a wide selection of
native and exotic trees, and shrubs. Spring brings a display of magnolia flowers and blossom trees, while beneath is a carpet of blue forget-me-nots. Daffodils also bloom. The bush is rich in birdlife.
Departing Masterton at 8.30am, and returning approx 5.45pm this day.
Price $49.00 with $25.00 prize draw
Includes entry to orchids & Mt Lees
Dannevirke Spring Festival
Saturday 16 October
Yes, another spring thing, but we love spring - a time of hope and renewal. Today we venture north where we discover how Dannevirke celebrates the
season. Our first visit is to the popular Garden and Craft Expo, where nurseries, businesses and crafts people from all over the lower North Island will be selling quality plants and crafts at affordable prices. As well as great retail
opportunities, there will be musical entertainment and great food. Either bring your own lunch today, or find something delectable at the fair. After lunch we become art critics as we view the Dannevirke Art Society Exhibition held especially to celebrate their 50th anniversary. Quality art works and woodturned pieces will be on display. Finally before departing for home we “Discover Tararua” in the form of Floral Art, another exciting Exhibition that makes up Dannevirke’s spring celebration.
Departing this morning at 8.30am, aiming to be home by 5.00pm.
Price $40.00 with $25.00 prize draw
Includes entry to expo and exhibitions
Double-Header Steam
Monday, 18 October
Set your alarms for an early but worthwhile start today as we travel to the Feilding & Districts Steam Rail Depot to join the Steam Inc’s steam
excursion to Wanganui. Between Feilding and Marton there will be a double-header using their Ja1271 and Feilding’s Wab794 steam engines. With an early start from Masterton there is time to tour the Feilding depot and take photos of the two engines before departure. We encourage you to bring your own picnic lunch today to give you the flexibility of eating when you begin to feel peckish along the route. We spend a little time in Wanganui before swapping transport modes and departing for home on our coach.
Departing Masterton at 7am. Returning to Masterton by 5.30pm.
Price $134.00 with $25.00 prize draw
Includes train excursion and return coach
Concert Connections
The Great Gatsby
Sunday, 8 August 2010 4.30pm show
Circa Theatre, Wellington
“...You can’t live forever…”
Circa Theatre brings to the stage the passion and scandal of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel in a thrilling new adaptation of the dazzling decadent world of the Roaring Twenties. We’ve put it together in a fabulous value package that includes coach, show ticket, and dinner at Circa’s Café looking out over the harbour plus a hot drink after the show. Coach departs Masterton at 1.30pm with Lower Valley pick ups enroute to Wellington. There will be time to purchase a drink or coffee in the cafe before the show.
Price: $135.00
NB: full payment required ASAP to confirm your booking
Die Fledermaus by the Wellington Gilbert and Sullivan Light Opera Society
Saturday 21 August - 2pm matinee Opera House
This classic comic opera by Johann Strauss comes to Wellington, brought to you by the Wellington Gilbert and Sullivan Company. Join fellow opera buffs for this entertaining tale. We have now been able to secure limited premium dress circle seats.
Coach departs Masterton 10.30am with time to purchase lunch before the show or alternatively bring your own.
Price: $99.00 - show & dinner
NB: full payment required to confirm your booking NB: full payment required to confirm your booking
Daniel O’Donnell Regent on Broadway Palmerston North
Thursday 23 September—7.30pm
Ireland’s most popular easy listening singer, Daniel O’Donnell returns to NZ, with special guest Mary Duff. A native of County Donegal Ireland, Daniel has a huge and loyal following here in NZ, and he joins us once again to share his mix of country and Irish Folk, in his charismatic and engaging style. Be in quick for this one, it’s sure to sell out. Departing Masterton at 4.30pm.
If you have already bought your own tickets, take the no-fuss option and join us on the coach. Phone us now to book.
Price: $120.00 coach and ticket
$35.00 coach only
NB: payment required to confirm
RNZ Ballet The Nutcracker
Sat, 30 October - 2.30pm show St James Theatre, Wellington
Just what the doctor ordered – a Christmas classic with a twist.
Set in a children’s hospital, Gary Harris’ reworked version of one of the world’s most-loved ballets, is a treat for all ages. Be dazzled by whirling snow imps and tango-ing tea-ladies as Tchaikovsky’s magical score transports you into the festive season. We have secured premium dress circle seats for this performance.
Coach departs Masterton 11am with time to purchase lunch before the show or alternatively bring your own.
Price: $110.00
NB: payment required to confirm booking NB: payment required to confirm booking
NZ SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Concert Coach 2010 – 6.30pm Shows - Michael Fowler Centre
Friday, 3 September - The Radio Network Tour – Soundscapes – featuring Percussionist Colin Currie
Prices Gold: $90.00 incl bus
Silver: $62.00 incl bus
Bus only: $28.00
Wellington Vector Orchestra
Concert Coach 2010 – 7.30pm Shows -
Wellington Town Hall
Sat, 24 July – Michael Houstoun, Piano
Sat, 11 September – Feng Ning, Violin
Sat, 13 November – Donald Nicholson, Harpischord & Douglas Mews, Organ
For more information or bookings:
Phone Margaret, Vector Wellington
Orchestra 04 801 3882
Price: $28.00 return bus only
N.B. Concert Tickets to be purchased from Vector Wellington Orchestra N.B. Concert Tickets to be purchased from Vector Wellington Orchestra
Operatunity
Jack & the Bean Sprout
New Life Church, Palmerston North
Monday 6 December
The famous mad Christmas pantomime. This year it’s Jack and the Bean Sprout -they can’t afford a beanstalk!!
Departing at 8.30am from Masterton, with the show starting at 11.00am. Returning to Masterton by 5.00pm.
Price $60.00 incls m/tea, lunch, show & coach
Further Opportunities for Operatunity
Because the Palmerston Service bus works in so well with the Operatunity concerts on a Wednesday, we can arrange for you to go to other shows scheduled for Palmerston North if you wish. Please ring to make a booking for any of the following:
The Last Night of the Proms - 18 August
I’m in Love with Vienna - 15 Sept
The Dancing Years - 3 November
Tranzit Tours - Holidays with a Difference
North Island Steam
12-16 October (itinerary available)
We have joined with Steam Inc to book a limited number of seats for three days of train travel as part of their special Heartland Tour. We travel Paekakariki to Gisborne by steam, with a special trip returning to Napier utilising an engine from the
Gisborne Vintage Rail. Other train travel is planned but this was too good an opportunity this year to travel lines not often used.
Note: Filling steadily - seats available.
Mountains to Sea
18-22 October (itinerary available)
This tour offers you a great getaway.
Accommodation is at Lake Taupo, the pretty seaside town of Raglan, plus a night of affordable luxury at the Chateau Tongariro, experiencing the magic of Mt Ruapehu in all its snowy splendour. Go on treat yourself!!.
Note: Filling steadily - seats available
Waikaremoana East Cape
6-13 November (itinerary available)
This year we’re mixing it up and running this tour back to front, travelling first to the Bay of Plenty, which allows us to journey in a southward direction around the East Coast. Scenically and culturally rich, the East Cape, combined with a visit to remote Lake Waikaremoana makes the perfect North Island escape.
Note: Limited seats available.
Chatham Island
10-15 November (itinerary available)
A six day package to this exciting and remote part of New Zealand. Discover the unique and fascinating history, landscapes and life-style of the Chathams. Hosted by Hotel Chatham, this full package includes transfers, airfares, accommodation and all meals.
Note: Limited seats available
The Greenstone Trail
24 Nov - 1 Dec (itinerary available)
The West Coast of the South Island is one of NZ’s most unspoilt regions, and we take the time to discover its treasures, with one of the highlights visiting the White Heron Sanctuary at Whataroa.
Note: Filling steadily - seats available
Christmas at Hanmer
21-27 Dec (itinerary available)
This year we propose to enjoy the festive season at Hanmer Springs - NZ's premier alpine spa destination. Located in inland Nth Canterbury - Hanmer Springs is best known for its award-winning Thermal Pools where visitors enjoy pampering and relaxation amongst beautiful alpine vistas. Marlborough & North Canterbury attractions will also feature.
Note: Filling steadily - seats available
Tours for 2011
Winter is the time in the tour department, when we work on next year’s calendar, and as ever will be meeting the challenge of developing some exciting new itineraries, along with the return of some of our favourites for those who haven't enjoyed them before. Below is a list of tours that we have now confirmed :
Sounds Short Break
Early Feb - (itinerary to be finalised)
A short break to Picton is just the ticket. This all new tour finds us cruising in Queen Charlotte, sipping sauvignon, and doing what we do best - exploring and discovering.
Waiheke Island
28 Feb - 5 Mar (itinerary available)
A special feature of this tour is that you get to stay in luxurious accommodation right on the Onetangi Beach, with an opportunity to go swimming every day! We discover the scenery and attractions of this relaxed Hauraki Gulf Island
paradise. Beautiful beaches, wineries, artists, gardens and fine food.
Note: Filling steadily - seats available
Ellerslie in Christchurch
7-12 March (itinerary available)
Christchurch is the “Garden City”, so what better place to hold NZ’s premier gardening event. Unashamedly aimed at garden lovers, this tour also visits several beautiful private and public City and Banks Penisula gardens.
Note: Just released - seats available.
Molesworth-Rainbow
4-8 April (itinerary available)
We visit two of NZ’s largest South
Island high country stations, experience the unequalled splendour and learn of their history through a full and
informative commentary with a resident tour operator.
Note: Just released - seats available.
Deep South
10-20 April (itinerary available)
This tour returns and is unashamedly aimed at those prepared to take full
advantage of the many truly magnificent natural wonders that take a ‘little time and effort’ to reach - a level of basic fitness is required together with a flexible attitude. This tour is an opportunity to travel the full ‘Southern Scenic’ route from Dunedin City to Invercargill through to Te Anau via
Riverton and Tuatapere, with many opportunities to walk to view stunning views of bays, lakes, and waterfalls. Includes a night on Stewart Island.
Note: Just released - seats available.
South Island Trains
29 April - 5 May (itinerary available)
Rediscover the joys of train travel. We join the TranzPacific, and the magical TranzAlpine excursions, plus many others, including a steam journey, and discover some of the unique history of NZ rail travel.
Note: Just released - seats available.
Mid Winters Xmas in Taupo
June (itinerary to be finalised)
Here’s something to warm you up in the depths of winter… yes we pack our bags once again for a short but sweet Christmassy themed getaway. Staying at Wairakei Resort, we rediscover Taupo, a destination with so much to offer.
….also planned for 2011: (phone to register your interest)
Taranaki Rhododendrons
November (itinerary to be finalised)
This tour is a gardener’s delight, visiting some of Taranaki’s top private and public gardens along with many other attractions during the colourful height of rhododendron
flowering.
...PLUS...all new:
South Island - Pass to Pass
November (itinerary to be finalised)
Another new tour in the pipelines for 2011, we criss-cross the Main Divide via the scenic passes that the South Island is so renowned for. Arthurs Pass, Haast Pass and LIndis Pass, with plenty of fantastic South Island hinterland in between.
North West Auckland
Dates to be confirmed
This is largely uncharted territory for us, but there is much to discover. A glass bottom boat ride in a Marine Reserve, potteries, sculpture, wineries, olives and nuts, history and fabulous west coast beaches...are you tempted yet?
...AND... short tours to:
Gisborne
Hawkes Bay
AND... Already planned for 2012:
The Far North
...….and many more
Enquire now about our tours, either at our local office
or phone Ali on 0800 TRANTOUR (872 6868)
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