Magical NZ

ATS Tours is offering discounted “Magical New Zealand” packages of 10 to 15 days, beginning at $1,299 per person out of L.A.

For example, on the 11-day/8-night independent vacation “New Zealand Movie Magic,” from $2,849 (including savings of $235), “Lord of the Rings” fans can explore the locations that provided backdrops for the Academy Award-winning films.

Included are airfare from Los Angeles to Christchurch and return from Queenstown, eight days’ Hertz compact automatic car rental, a “Lord of the Rings” guidebook, private car transfer upon arrival in Christchurch, a full-day “Safari of the Rings” tour, a half-day Dart River Jetboat Safari, eight breakfasts and either one lunch and one dinner or two dinners (depending on departure date).

Boutique hotels are used, with one night each in Christchurch, Mount Cook, Wanaka and Te Anau and three nights in Queenstown. Depending on season, either a one-night cruise on Doubtful Sound or a day cruise plus extra night in Te Anau are included.

See your travel agent, call ATS Tours at 800/423-2880.