New Zealand Wonderland: North & South Islands

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Amazing Experience

Overview

  • Arrive in Auckland, New Zealand, balancing harbor views, rainforest trails and city icons.
  • Cruise Bay of Islands to Cape Brett’s Hole in the Rock, visit Waitangi Treaty Grounds.
  • Glowworm boat through Waitomo Caves, then savor Māori culture and cuisine at Te Pā Tū.
  • Tour Wellington and Te Papa, then sail Interislander through Marlborough Sounds to Christchurch via Kaikōura.
  • Ride the TranzAlpine, see Franz Josef Glacier, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Aoraki/Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo.

 

Trip Includes

Experiences in 15 destinations.

  • Freedom of Choice inclusions in five locations.
  • Finest dining -- a total of 27 meals.
  • The services of an expert APT tour director and driver.
  • 16 nights' hand-picked accommodation.
  • Return airport transfers and porterage.
  • Prices are fully inclusive of all sightseeing, entrance fees, cruises, meals as specified and accommodation.

 

Trip Excludes

  • Travel insurance
  • International, domestic airfare & airfare taxes
  • Meals and beverages not explicitly listed as included
  • Gratuities
  • Optional excursions
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Visa fees, if applicable

 

Summary

Terms and Conditions

Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please inquire.

 

On arrival into Auckland, be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure

 

Arrive Auckland

 

Your Accommodation

Grand Millennium Hotel Auckland

Welcome to Grand Millennium Auckland, superbly located in the city centre close to Queen Street and Viaduct Harbour. Whether you are travelling for business or leisure, you will appreciate being situated in the very heart of cosmopolitan Auckland with some of the city’s finest dining, shopping and entertainment venues at your doorstep. Our hotel is also near Auckland’s iconic landmarks: The Civic, Auckland Town Hall and Aotea Square, the city's premier outdoor civic space. Here, you can relax and attend local events with most convenience.

Grand Millennium Hotel Auckland

Cross Auckland's Harbour Bridge and travel along the Hibiscus Coast. Stop at Matakohe's Kauri Museum for an insight into the rich pioneering history of the Northland region. Continue to the Bay of Islands where you will enjoy a visit to the historic Treaty House and ceremonial War Canoe at Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

Signature Experience - Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Discover New Zealand’s most historic site, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, which is often called the 'Birthplace of our Nation' by Kiwis. This is where the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed in 1840, an agreement between the British Crown and a significant number of Maori chiefs. See the world's largest war canoe, Ngatokimatawhaorua, and visit Te Whare Runanga, a Maori meeting house that reflects stories and carving styles from across the country.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

 

Auckland, Bay of Islands

 

Your Accommodation

Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands Paihia

A waterfront location nestled in 60 acres of subtropical gardens, within the Waitangi National Trust Reserve. Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands is a harmony of nature and spacious comfort among Bay of island hotels. Our 140 guest rooms include 4 suites and accessible rooms. Each accommodation features its own patio or balcony, assuring great views of the bay, harbour or garden.

Outside, a lagoon style swimming pool and rock pools of cascading water sets the mood. Relax by the pool or get competitive on our tennis court. The excitement continues in our dining establishment Jimmy Cook's Kiwi Kitchen - classic Kiwi delights complement the spectacular views which await you. Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands is a 4-star and Enviro-Gold Qualmark rated hotel, with an Environmental Sustainability Plan for the future.

Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands Paihia

Embark on a memorable Signature Experience, discovering the beauty of the Bay of Islands. Afterwards, the afternoon is free for you to further explore.

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE - Bay of Islands Cruise
Enjoy a catamaran cruise to Cape Brett and the Hole in the Rock. Meander through the inner islands, admiring the sandy beaches and rocky outcrops.

Meal

Breakfast

 

Bay of Islands

 

Your Accommodation

Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands Paihia

A waterfront location nestled in 60 acres of subtropical gardens, within the Waitangi National Trust Reserve. Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands is a harmony of nature and spacious comfort among Bay of island hotels. Our 140 guest rooms include 4 suites and accessible rooms. Each accommodation features its own patio or balcony, assuring great views of the bay, harbour or garden.

Outside, a lagoon style swimming pool and rock pools of cascading water sets the mood. Relax by the pool or get competitive on our tennis court. The excitement continues in our dining establishment Jimmy Cook's Kiwi Kitchen - classic Kiwi delights complement the spectacular views which await you. Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands is a 4-star and Enviro-Gold Qualmark rated hotel, with an Environmental Sustainability Plan for the future.

Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands Paihia

Travel to Auckland before selecting from our Freedom of Choice activities. Back at your hotel this evening, enjoy a delicious Pacific-themed dinner.

Freedom of Choice - Auckland Harbour Sailing Cruise
Sail under the Auckland Harbour Bridge, spot volcanic peaks and admire the iconic city skyline from the water aboard a 50-foot monohull sailboat.

Freedom of Choice - All Blacks Experience
Immerse yourself in a guided encounter that connects you to the history and culture of one of the world's greatest sports teams. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the people who have made the All Blacks such an important part of New Zealand’s story.

Freedom of Choice - Weta Workshop - Unleashed
Journey behind the cinema curtain with the Academy Award-winning team at Weta Workshop and see how blockbuster films such as ‘The Hobbit’ are created.

Freedom of Choice - Te Wao Nui - The Living Realm at Auckland Zoo
At Auckland Zoo, explore six stunning habitats showcasing the native flora and fauna of New Zealand. See the iconic kiwi, cheeky kea and more than 50 other native species.

Freedom of Choice - Bush and Beach Wilderness Adventure
Escape the bustle of the city on a half-day tour to Auckland’s wild black-sand beaches and lush rainforest. Join an experienced guide and learn about the forest’s unique plants and wildlife.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

 

Bay of Islands, Auckland

 

Your Accommodation

Grand Millennium Hotel Auckland

Welcome to Grand Millennium Auckland, superbly located in the city centre close to Queen Street and Viaduct Harbour. Whether you are travelling for business or leisure, you will appreciate being situated in the very heart of cosmopolitan Auckland with some of the city’s finest dining, shopping and entertainment venues at your doorstep. Our hotel is also near Auckland’s iconic landmarks: The Civic, Auckland Town Hall and Aotea Square, the city's premier outdoor civic space. Here, you can relax and attend local events with most convenience.

Grand Millennium Hotel Auckland

Travel to Waitomo, home to the famous caves where thousands of tiny bioluminescent glowworms radiate a spellbinding light. Discover this natural wonder on a guided boat ride through a grotto illuminated by these majestic creatures. Later, continue to Rotorua, where you will enjoy an enriching Signature Experience.

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE - Te Pa Tu
Tonight, enjoy an indulgent traditional Maori feast and performance of Haka, song and storytelling at Te Pa Tu (Maori Village). Over a magical evening, you will be welcomed with a Haka powhiri (cultural welcome) and then treated to further captivating performances while enjoying seasonal canapes, chef selected aperitifs and a seasonal three-course dinner.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

 

Auckland, Waitomo Caves, Rotorua

 

Your Accommodation

Millennium Hotel Rotorua

Next to mystical Lake Rotorua and just a brief stroll from the city centre, Millennium Hotel Rotorua is an eco-friendly destination in New Zealand.

From here, experience Rotorua’s rich history, explore the thermal hot pools or the native bush, and even squeeze in a round of golf at one of Rotorua’s international golf courses. Our 227 rooms and suites feature residential-style decor with views of Lake Rotorua or the native garden. We also have accessible rooms for guests with special requirements. 7 meetings and event spaces are available and ideal for up to 400 people.

Millennium Hotel Rotorua

Spend this morning on your Freedom of Choice activity. Afterwards, the afternoon and evening are free for you to explore.

Freedom of Choice - Rotorua Icons
Embark on a Rotorua adventure. Experience the lively Agrodome Farm Show and visit The National Kiwi Hatchery before heading to the incredible natural geothermal wonder that is renowned for its healing properties, the mineral-rich Te Puia Thermal Reserve.

Freedom of Choice - Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
A must for any fan of ‘The Lord of the Rings’, this tour explores locations where some of the famous movie scenes were filmed. You’ll feel as though you’re a part of the massive blockbuster trilogy.

Freedom of Choice - Eco-Thermal Tour
Drive through a unique mix of forest and farmland to visit New Zealand’s largest boiling mud pool and a series of colourful hot springs at the calming Waiotapu.

Freedom of Choice - Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa
Immerse yourself in the rejuvenating geothermal waters of Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa on a Restorative Journey, which draws on age-old Ngati Whakaue healing practices and Maori culture.

Meal

Breakfast

 

Rotorua

 

Your Accommodation

Millennium Hotel Rotorua

Next to mystical Lake Rotorua and just a brief stroll from the city centre, Millennium Hotel Rotorua is an eco-friendly destination in New Zealand.

From here, experience Rotorua’s rich history, explore the thermal hot pools or the native bush, and even squeeze in a round of golf at one of Rotorua’s international golf courses. Our 227 rooms and suites feature residential-style decor with views of Lake Rotorua or the native garden. We also have accessible rooms for guests with special requirements. 7 meetings and event spaces are available and ideal for up to 400 people.

Millennium Hotel Rotorua

Follow the Thermal Explorer Highway to the heart of New Zealand's North Island this morning. View the Wairakei Steam Valley, then visit Huka Falls and Lake Taupo, before travelling across the plateau of Tongariro National Park to Wellington.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

 

Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington

 

Your Accommodation

InterContinental Wellington

Adjacent to Wellington’s waterfront, InterContinental Wellington is the most centrally-located and experienced global five-star hotel in New Zealand’s capital city. It is the seamless and personal service of the team that makes your Wellington accommodation and travel experience truly memorable. Guests can spend time with the award-winning concierge team whose tips and insider knowledge help travelers discover the arts, events, shopping, and culinary cultures surrounding the hotel.

InterContinental Wellington

After breakfast, set off on a sightseeing tour of Wellington's best-loved landmarks and sights, including Mt Victoria, the waterfront area and New Zealand's national museum - Te Papa Tongarewa. The rest of the day will be yours at leisure to further explore this coastal city and perhaps dine at a local restaurant.

Meal

Breakfast

 

Wellington

 

Your Accommodation

InterContinental Wellington

Adjacent to Wellington’s waterfront, InterContinental Wellington is the most centrally-located and experienced global five-star hotel in New Zealand’s capital city. It is the seamless and personal service of the team that makes your Wellington accommodation and travel experience truly memorable. Guests can spend time with the award-winning concierge team whose tips and insider knowledge help travelers discover the arts, events, shopping, and culinary cultures surrounding the hotel.

InterContinental Wellington

This morning, travel to the South Island, to the quaint fishing town of Kaikoura before continuing along the central east coast all the way to Christchurch.

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE - Interislander Ferry
Take the iconic Interislander ferry from Wellington on the North Island to Picton on the South Island. Travel through the serene waters of Wellington Harbour and across Cook Strait, then journey through the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

 

Wellington, Christchurch

 

Your Accommodation

Commodore Hotel Christchurch Airport

Situated on Christchurch's Memorial Avenue on an idyllic seven acres of land featuring award-winning native New Zealand gardens, Commodore Hotel Christchurch Airport is just minutes away from the Christchurch International Airport and ten minutes into the centre of Christchurch. The hotel features 137 guest accommodation rooms, conference and meeting facilities and extensive free parking.

Commodore Hotel Christchurch Airport

After a special Signature Experience, disembark at Arthur’s Pass and travel by coach to Hokitika, famous for its stunning coastline and jade carving industry. Pounamu, or greenstone, is plentiful here and holds great cultural significance for the Maori people. Continue to Franz Josef/Waiau, where you will enjoy another Signature Experience.

Signature Experience - TranzAlpine Train
Experience the romance of rail travel aboard the TranzAlpine train. Admire ever-changing landscapes and spectacular gorges as you journey through the famous Southern Alps and alongside the Waimakariri River on one of the world’s most scenic rail routes.

Signature Experience - Franz Josef/Waiau
Drive through Westland Tai Poutini National Park and see the dramatic surrounds of the Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere. Tonight, you will stay at the luxurious Te Waonui Forest Retreat, located on the edge of the Franz Josef/Waiau village. Relax and unwind amid the lush rainforest and breathtaking scenery before enjoying a four-course degustation fine dining experience.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

 

Christchurch, TranzAlpine Train, Franz Josef/Waiau

 

Your Accommodation

Legacy Te Waonui Hotel Franz Josef

A haven from the city rush, a foray into New Zealand’s pristine wilderness – Te Waonui Forest Retreat is truly a place to relax and refresh.

All focus has been on creating a healthy, environmentally safe habitat to maximize guests’ wellbeing. With a natural, earthy ambiance and attentive service, there’s no better place to take a deep breath and simply unwind.

Legacy Te Waonui Hotel Franz Josef

Today, admire the magnificent landscape as you travel along the Haast River Valley to Queenstown. This evening, choose where to enjoy dinner with a range of Freedom of Choice dining options available to you.

Freedom of Choice Dining - Walter Peak
Cruise aboard a vintage steamer to Walter Peak High Country Farm to enjoy a lavish BBQ dinner featuring succulent meats expertly prepared on the rotisserie and grill, vegetables, a selection of salads, and bread. And be sure to leave room for dessert.

Freedom of Choice Dining - Stratosfare Restaurant
Take a magical gondola ride up to the Stratosfare Restaurant on Bob's Peak overlooking Queenstown. Feast on an extensive range of New Zealand and international cuisines while enjoying uninterrupted views over Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables.

Freedom of Choice Dining - Fergburger
This cult burger house achieved worldwide fame in 2015 when its burgers were crowned the world's best in a travel article on the website of news giant CNN. The best burgers in New Zealand, no doubt. The world? You be the judge.

Freedom of Choice Dining - Finz Restaurant
Finz Seafood & Grill offers casual, relaxed waterfront dining right in the heart of Queenstown. Finz is a bustling bistro, where you can enjoy fresh seafood daily and other dishes in a fabulous location.

Freedom of Choice Dining - Your Hotel Restaurant
Enjoy a contemporary fusion of local and international cuisine at your hotel.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

 

Franz Josef/Waiau, Queenstown

 

Your Accommodation

Novotel Queenstown Lakeside

Centrally located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, treat yourself to 4-star tranquility at Novotel Queenstown Lakeside Hotel. Start your day fresh with a breath of mountain air from your hotel room balcony and a delicious buffet breakfast in the airy restaurant. Your hotel room will be waiting for you after a long day of soaking up Queenstown's natural beauty.

Enjoy Queenstown's natural beauty from your hotel room as you look over the tranquil Lake Wakatipu or venture further out and experience some of the adventure sports Queenstown is known for such as bungee jumping off Kawarau Gorge Suspension bridge. Our hotel is located in the midst of the local fine dining precinct and just 15 minutes from the airport, making it the ideal base for your Queenstown adventure holiday.

Novotel Queenstown Lakeside

Choose how you’d like to spend today with a range of sightseeing activities on offer.

Freedom of Choice - The Lord of the Rings’ 4WD Safari
Discover why this beautiful landscape was chosen to portray Middle-earth in 'The Lord of the Rings' on this sensational 4WD safari. Visit several breathtaking locations where the iconic motion picture trilogy was filmed.

Freedom of Choice - Wine Tour
Embark on a personalised sightseeing tour of New Zealand’s southernmost wine region, as you indulge in tastings from various wineries.

Freedom of Choice - Skippers Canyon
Enjoy an exciting 4WD adventure following the Shotover River Valley. Admire rocky cliffs, sheer drops and breathtaking river gorges along the way.

Freedom of Choice - Million Dollar Cruise
Glide across the mystical waters of Lake Wakatipu, keeping your eyes peeled for local bird life as well as enormous trout, which are plentiful here.

Freedom of Choice - Dart River Wilderness Jet
A wilderness jet boat journey on the glacier-fed Dart River takes you deep into Mount Aspiring National Park, which is part of the larger World Heritage Site of Te Wahipounamu. Here, your guide will share fascinating insights into the area’s rich history.

Freedom of Choice - Best of Queenstown
Gaze in wonder at the beauty of New Zealand’s adventure capital on this spectacular tour. Take in panoramic views of Queenstown, visit the charming township of Arrowtown and explore Gibbston, home to the world’s first commercial bungy jump location. Enjoy a wine tasting at a local winery and to top it all off, relax during a scenic boat cruise on Lake Wakatipu.

Meal

Breakfast

 

Queenstown

 

Your Accommodation

Novotel Queenstown Lakeside

Centrally located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, treat yourself to 4-star tranquility at Novotel Queenstown Lakeside Hotel. Start your day fresh with a breath of mountain air from your hotel room balcony and a delicious buffet breakfast in the airy restaurant. Your hotel room will be waiting for you after a long day of soaking up Queenstown's natural beauty.

Enjoy Queenstown's natural beauty from your hotel room as you look over the tranquil Lake Wakatipu or venture further out and experience some of the adventure sports Queenstown is known for such as bungee jumping off Kawarau Gorge Suspension bridge. Our hotel is located in the midst of the local fine dining precinct and just 15 minutes from the airport, making it the ideal base for your Queenstown adventure holiday.

Novotel Queenstown Lakeside

Embark on a picturesque drive today as you journey along the Milford Road and into the heart of Fiordland National Park. Wind down the Eglinton and Hollyford Valleys, then pass through the Homer Tunnel to be met by the sight of Mitre Peak - the iconic backdrop to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. Continue to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, where a Signature Experience awaits. Afterwards, take a scenic drive to the lakeside settlement of Te Anau. Enjoy another Signature Experience in the evening.

Signature Experience - Milford Sound/Piopiotahi Cruise
A cruise through Milford Sound/Piopiotahi draws you into a magical world of snow-dusted mountains, breathtaking scenery and engaging wildlife. Edge close to tumbling waterfalls and colonies of seals and penguins, all beneath the ramparts of mighty peaks that rise sheer from the water as they stretch to the vast sky above.

Signature Experience - Taste of Fiordland Dinner
Delight in a delectable Taste of Fiordland dinner this evening at the exceptional MacKinnon Restaurant & Explorer Bar. With a menu that has been carefully crafted to showcase the South Island’s regional cuisine, you’ll savour mouth-watering local fare made from the finest artisan produce.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

 

Queenstown, Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, Te Anau

 

Your Accommodation

Distinction Hotel and Villas Te Anau

Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas offers elegant accommodation and FREE unlimited WiFi for the perfect Fiordland getaway. Surrounded by extensive, colorful gardens and overlooking spectacular Lake Te Anau and the Fiordland ranges, this 4-star hotel, and villa accommodation set the tone for your stay in one of the world’s most breathtaking regions.

Located on the Te Anau lakefront, a short stroll from the Te Anau town center, Distinction Te Anau is perfectly situated for you to make the most of this beautiful area. If you need an escape from everyday life and a chance to indulge yourself with a relaxing holiday, this is the place for you.

Distinction Hotel and Villas Te Anau

Journey through Southland’s rugged countryside as you travel to Dunedin, a city known as the Edinburgh of the South. This afternoon, select your Freedom of Choice activity.

Freedom of Choice - Olveston Historic Home
Wander through the historic home of a wealthy merchant family built in the early 1900s. Inside, admire fine art, furniture and artefacts, which have been collected from around the world.

Freedom of Choice - Larnach Castle
Discover the history of Larnach Castle and its beautiful gardens on a guided tour. Nestled on the stunning Otago Peninsula, it is New Zealand’s only castle and dates back to 1871.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

 

Te Anau, Dunedin

 

Your Accommodation

Fable Dunedin

Originally built in 1862 and exceptionally elegant, Fable Dunedin offers attractive meeting spaces for up to 250 delegates. Ideal for seminars, meetings, conferences, product launches, gala dinners, cocktail functions, private celebrations, wedding ceremonies and receptions. Plus, the vast array of excellent attractions in the wider Dunedin region make this an ideal base for pre and post-meeting activities.

Fable Dunedin

Drive north and stop to view the Moeraki Boulders/Kaihinaki on Koekohe Beach. A geological marvel, these gigantic calcite spheres were formed an estimated 65 million years ago. Continue to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where you will enjoy a Signature Experience as well as your preferred Freedom of Choice activity.

Signature Experience - Aoraki/Mount Cook
Journey into Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a bewildering landscape of towering mountain peaks, alpine herb fields and epic glaciers. See New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Aoraki/Mount Cook, and stay at the iconic Hermitage Hotel. Dine at the hotel’s Alpine Restaurant this evening, indulging in a delicious seasonal menu that incorporates the finest local ingredients.

Freedom of Choice - Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre
Visit the state-of-the-art Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre and discover the history of the iconic surrounding region. The museum is dedicated to the achievements of the famous mountaineer and explorer Sir Edmund Hillary and his affiliation with Aoraki/Mount Cook.

Freedom of Choice - Stargazing
Learn all about the stars of the southern sky with an expert astronomer.

Freedom of Choice - Glacier Explorer Cruise
Step aboard a MAC boat for an up-close encounter with stunning icebergs on the terminal lake of the Tasman Glacier (summer months only).

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

 

Dunedin, Aoraki/Mt Cook

 

Your Accommodation

The Hermitage Aoraki Mount Cook

Discover the spectacle and drama of New Zealand's Aoraki Mount Cook National Park from the splendour and comfort of The Hermitage Aoraki Mount Cook. The Hermitage, located within Aoraki Mt Cook National Park, has a range of accommodation types available. The main hotel complex contains 164 rooms, while 32 Motel and 20 Chalet self-contained units are located 200-800m away in the village. From an intrepid journey through glacial valleys to a mouth-watering culinary dining adventure, The Hermitage Hotel is the perfect place to base your adventure and discover why this region has endeared itself to Kiwi adventure seekers for so long.

The Hermitage Aoraki Mount Cook

Travel to Lake Tekapo and taker in the rugged beauty of the Southern Alps and the stunning watercolours on the lake. Pay a visit to the tiny but charming Church of the Good Shepherd that features in many photographs because of its beautiful backdrop and surrounds. Enjoy a Farewell Dinner tonight at your hotel.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

 

Aoraki/Mt Cook, Lake Tekapo, Christchurch

 

Your Accommodation

Distinction Christchurch Hotel

The newly renovated Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, whilst standing proud amongst the buzz of the rejuvenation of Cathedral Square. The hotel is ideally positioned in the heart of the city only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanical Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. Distinction Christchurch offers 179 elegant, air-conditioned hotel rooms, including 3 floors of brand new Superior Rooms and Suites out-fitted with the latest technology including flat screen Smart TVs and free unlimited WiFi. Designed to suit everyone from business travellers requiring spacious, contemporary accommodation to those travellers seeking a place to relax and unwind after a day exploring Canterbury's vibrant attractions

Distinction Christchurch Hotel

Today you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home.

Meal

Breakfast

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