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New Adventures with Great Journeys NZ: From Mystery Rides to Santa-themed Escapes, Cathedral Market Nights and the Gold Coast Grand Opening

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Saturday, November 15th 2025 at 15:24 GMT by The New Zealand Herald

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New Adventures with Great Journeys NZ: From Mystery Rides to Santa‑themed Escapes, Cathedral Market Nights and the Gold Coast Grand Opening

Great Journeys NZ, the country’s long‑standing tour operator known for its blend of scenic exploration and cultural immersion, has just rolled out a fresh slate of itineraries that promise to delight seasoned travellers and first‑time visitors alike. In a recent feature by the NZ Herald (link [1]), the company’s latest offerings – a “Mystery Ride” out of Auckland, a festive “Santa experience”, nighttime market escapades at the Cathedral precinct, and a brand‑new Gold Coast opening – were highlighted as the next big things for holidaymakers planning a New Zealand adventure.

1. The “Mystery Ride”: A Surprise On Wheels

Perhaps the most intriguing addition is the “Mystery Ride”, a two‑day, three‑night excursion that departs from Auckland every Saturday and Sunday. The itinerary is a true surprise: travellers are kept in the dark about their destinations until the day of departure, which adds an element of spontaneity to the trip. According to Great Journeys’ website (link [2]), the ride usually meanders through a mix of iconic coastal towns, hidden gems, and a touch of the local nightlife.

Key Highlights

A sample itinerary revealed stops at the picturesque Hauraki Gulf, a short walk through the historic village of Paeroa, and a night in the buzzing nightlife scene of Waiheke Island. The company’s marketing team claims the “mystery” factor keeps the experience fresh for repeat travellers, while the inclusion of local guides ensures an authentic, insider view of each stop.

2. “Santa Experience”: A Christmas‑Themed Getaway

Great Journeys has also tapped into the holiday spirit with a specially curated “Santa Experience” that combines a visit to a local Santa’s Village with a behind‑the‑scenes look at how Christmas is celebrated in New Zealand. This package runs from mid‑December to early January and is tailored for families and couples looking for a whimsical holiday break.

What to Expect

• Santa’s Village Visit – A guided tour of the village’s workshops, a meet‑and‑greet with Santa, and the chance to leave a note for the Big Guy.
• Christmas Market Tours – A private walk through the Auckland Christmas market, complete with hot cocoa, local crafts, and live entertainment.
• Cultural Touch – A Māori-inspired Christmas dinner featuring “hangi” cooking techniques, offered as part of the package.

The package is priced at $395 per adult and $290 per child, inclusive of accommodation at a boutique hotel in the city centre, meals, and the market ticket. Great Journeys emphasises that the tour is fully inclusive, so families can relax and focus on the holiday magic rather than logistics.

3. Cathedral Market Nights: Nightlife Meets Culture

For those who prefer an urban, culturally rich experience, the Cathedral Market Nights package offers an evening of food, art, and community around Auckland’s historic Cathedral precinct. The market is a popular weekly gathering that showcases local artisans, street performers, and culinary stalls.

Features

• Guided Night Walk – A local guide takes travellers through the maze of stalls, pointing out must‑try dishes and unique crafts.
• Live Music – A rotating schedule of acoustic sets by emerging New Zealand musicians.
• Special Event Nights – Occasionally, the market hosts themed nights such as “Jazz & Chill” or “Poetry Slam”.

Great Journeys arranges a nightly package that includes transport from a central pick‑up point, entry tickets, a welcome cocktail, and a light snack. The cost is $60 per adult, with a discounted rate for children. This offering is especially popular among younger travellers looking to explore the city after dark without the usual tourist traps.

4. Gold Coast Grand Opening: A New Destination

In addition to these themed experiences, Great Journeys has announced the launch of its Gold Coast itinerary, an ambitious venture that extends the company’s reach into the famed South Island tourist hub. The itinerary features a blend of beachside relaxation, adventure sports, and cultural immersion.

Itinerary Snapshot

The Gold Coast opening is priced at $550 per person for a four‑day package, with all accommodation and transport covered. The article notes that Great Journeys has partnered with several local operators to offer exclusive experiences not available on other tours.

5. Booking and Practicalities

Great Journeys emphasises that all new packages can be booked directly through their official website (link [3]), where travellers can choose dates, confirm travel dates, and pay online. The company also offers a 24‑hour customer support line for any queries.

What to Keep in Mind

• Early Booking – Due to limited availability, particularly for the Mystery Ride and Santa Experience, travellers are encouraged to book at least two months in advance.
• Travel Insurance – The operator recommends comprehensive travel insurance, which can be purchased through their portal.
• COVID‑19 Considerations – While New Zealand remains open to international visitors, travellers should check the latest entry requirements before booking.

6. Final Thoughts

The NZ Herald feature paints a vivid picture of Great Journeys NZ’s latest lineup as an exciting blend of mystery, festivity, culture, and adventure. Whether it’s the thrill of not knowing where the Mystery Ride will take you, the enchantment of a Santa‑led holiday, the vibrant nights of the Cathedral Market, or the fresh exploration of the Gold Coast, there’s a package for nearly every type of traveller. With all-inclusive pricing, local guides, and a focus on authentic experiences, Great Journeys continues to position itself as a go‑to choice for anyone looking to discover New Zealand beyond the typical tourist path. If you’re planning a trip in the coming months, the new offerings are worth a look – and with the company’s reputation for quality service, you’re likely to find a memorable, hassle‑free adventure waiting.