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Join us for 12 unforgettable days of painting, sketching, and exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Te Anau, Queenstown, and Dunedin in New Zealand. Known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant food and wine culture, New Zealand offers the perfect backdrop for an artistic adventure. Under the expert guidance of David Taylor, you will learn how to capture the essence of this extraordinary land in watercolour. This experience will allow you to discover charming towns, experience the region's exceptional scenery, and uncover its fascinating history - all while enhancing your artistic skills in an inspiring setting.
ACCOMMODATION
DINING
TOUR ESSENTIALS
TRANSPORT AND SIGHTSEEING
Distinguished artist, David Taylor, has exhibited with the world's major watercolour societies and has gained international acclaim through winning many important awards from all over the world. David was the Victorian Artists Society "Artist of the Year" in 1976, 1980 and 1989. In the early 1980s, David received the Australian watercolourists' ultimate accolade when he was elected to the elite Australian Watercolour Institute. He is respected worldwide for his painting and instruction on the art of watercolour. David's warmth and charm ensure that whenever he is listed as a tutor, his workshops immediately fill, so make sure you book in early.
DAY 1 Monday 15 February 2027 Te Anau
Workshop participants will be warmly greeted at Queenstown Airport at 3:00 pm by the tour manager. You will then be transferred to the workshop hotel in Te Anau. The scenic drive will take you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Southern Alps and Fiordland, offering a perfect introduction to the region's natural beauty. Upon arrival at the hotel, the group will meet for welcome drinks, providing an opportunity to relax and mingle with fellow participants. Afterward, a delicious dinner will be served, offering a chance to unwind and enjoy local cuisine in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
DAY 2 Tuesday 16 February 2027 Te Anau
Today will be dedicated to a full day of painting in Te Anau, surrounded by its stunning landscapes. David will start the day with an inspiring demonstration, where he will share his techniques and insights on capturing the beauty of the region's unique scenery. Following the demonstration, David will provide individual guidance to workshop participants, offering personalised feedback and support as each artist works on their own.
DAY 3 Wednesday 17 February 2027 Te Anau
This morning, we will embark on a scenic journey north to Milford Sound for an unforgettable cruise through one of New Zealand's most iconic landscapes. Situated on the rugged west coast of the South Island, Milford Sound (Piopiotahi) is renowned for its dramatic beauty, featuring towering mountain peaks, cascading waterfalls, and awe-inspiring views at every turn. As we cruise through the fiord, you will have the perfect opportunity to capture stunning photographs and sketch, immersing yourself in the natural wonder of this world-famous destination. Regular critique sessions will be held throughout the tour. There will be an included dinner this evening.
DAY 4 Thursday 18 February 2027 Te Anau
Today, we journey to the picturesque town of Manapouri for a full day of painting amidst its breathtaking scenery. Nestled at the edge of Lake Manapouri and surrounded by the stunning mountains of Fiordland, this tranquil location offers an abundance of natural beauty to inspire your artwork.
DAY 5 Friday 19 February 2027 Queenstown
This morning, we will travel to the vibrant town of Queenstown, where we will take a scenic cruise across the stunning Lake Wakatipu. As we leisurely glide over the crystal-clear waters, you will be treated to panoramic views of Queenstown's spectacular alpine landscapes, including dramatic mountain ranges, lush forests, and the serene lake itself. After the cruise, we will check into our hotel, where you will have time to relax and enjoy the charming atmosphere of this renowned adventure capital.
DAY 6 Saturday 20 February 2027 Queenstown
A full day of painting in beautiful Queenstown surrounded by majestic mountains and nestled on the shores of crystal-clear Lake Wakatipu. This evening we will walk to the Gondola and take a ride to the top of Bob's Peak overlooking Queenstown and watch spectacular lake and mountain views unfold as we ascend. We will also enjoy an included dinner.
DAY 7 Sunday 21 February 2027 Queenstown
Today, we will travel to the village of Glenorchy, located at the edge of Mount Aspiring National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Area. Glenorchy is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, offering some of New Zealand's most spectacular scenery. The panoramic views of towering mountains across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Wakatipu are nothing short of extraordinary. Upon arrival, David will select a subject from the landscape, paint a demonstration, and then provide individual guidance as tour members work on their own pieces, capturing the natural beauty surrounding us. A delicious, included lunch will be served, allowing time to relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings before continuing our creative day in this remarkable location.
DAY 8 Monday 22 February 2027 Queenstown
The final painting day in Queenstown begins with a demonstration by David, followed by personalised guidance as participants put the finishing touches on their work.
DAY 9 Tuesday 23 February 2027 Dunedin
Today, we begin with a visit to the charming town of Arrowtown, nestled on the banks of the Arrow River. Once a bustling gold-mining hub in the 1860s, Arrowtown has preserved much of its historic character, offering a unique glimpse into the past. Its tree-lined streets, heritage buildings, and stunning riverside views make it a perfect location for a morning of painting, where we will capture both the town's rich history and its scenic beauty. Afterwards, we continue our journey south to Dunedin, often referred to as the "Edinburgh of New Zealand" due to its strong Scottish heritage. Surrounded by dramatic hills and perched at the edge of a long, picturesque harbour, Dunedin is one of the best-preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the Southern Hemisphere. Its mix of historic architecture and natural beauty offers endless inspiration for both artists and explorers alike. In the evening, we will gather for a delicious included dinner, offering a chance to unwind and share our experiences from the day in the vibrant heart of Dunedin.
DAY 10 Wednesday 24 February 2027 Dunedin
This morning, we will have a sightseeing tour of Dunedin. We will see the city centre, Signal Hill lookout, Baldwin Street (the steepest street in the world), the University of Otago and Dunedin railway station. We will also visit the Dunedin Public Art Gallery. In the afternoon, David will find a great painting location in Dunedin and complete a demonstration. Following this, David will assist individual workshop members with their painting.
DAY 11 Thursday 25 February 2027 Dunedin
Today, we will visit the historic Larnach Castle, an architectural masterpiece built in 1871 by William Larnach, a merchant baron and politician, in tribute to his beloved first wife, Eliza. The construction of the castle took over 200 workers three years to complete the shell, while master European craftsmen spent an additional 12 years meticulously embellishing its interior. Larnach spared no expense on his dream home, sourcing the finest materials from around the world, resulting in a truly opulent residence. We will enjoy a self-guided tour of the castle, exploring its grand rooms, lush gardens, and panoramic views over the Otago Peninsula. Afterward, we will spend the afternoon immersed in a painting session, inspired by the castle's stunning surroundings and intricate details.
DAY 12 Friday 26 February 2027 Dunedin
Our final day of painting in Dunedin. We will have the chance to perfect your work and reflect on the creative journey we have shared. In the afternoon, you will have dedicated time to put the final touches on your pieces. This will be followed by a constructive critique session, where David will provide personalised feedback to help you further develop your skills. To celebrate the end of a wonderful workshop, we will gather for farewell drinks, followed by a delicious dinner, offering a chance to relax and share your experiences.
DAY 13 Saturday 27 February 2027 Departure
This morning, we will say farewell to Dunedin and be transferred to Dunedin Airport for our onward travel. Tour members can extend their stay in New Zealand.
| Workshop Pricing | Fare (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Workshop price per person twin-share | $6,295 |
| Single supplement | $1,695 |
| Non-painter discount | $250 |
ACCOMMODATION
DINING
TOUR ESSENTIALS
TRANSPORT AND SIGHTSEEING
International Artist Painting Workshops can involve a considerable amount of walking and stair-climbing in the regions visited and it is important that all members have a level of physical fitness that allows them to take part in these activities without the need of assistance from others.
1. PAYMENT CONDITIONS:
A reservation deposit of $500 per person is required at the time of booking. Final payment is due 91 days prior to the date of departure. A 1.5% administration charge will be added to payments by Visa, Mastercard and Amex.
2. ALTERATION TO WORKSHOP VACATION PRICE:
The Painting Workshop Vacation price is subject to change in the event of unforeseen circumstances and changes in the cost of travel and accommodation services. Should any increase in the Workshop Vacation price be unacceptable to the registered member, a full refund of monies paid will be made.
3. CANCELLATION AND AMENDMENTS:
Cancellations received in writing 91 or more days from the date of departure will result in a cancellation fee of $500 per person. Cancellations received 91 or fewer days before departure will result in a loss of all monies paid. There are no refunds for services not utilized while on a Workshop Vacation. Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover Workshop members for the consequences of unforeseen events during the Workshop Vacation and for cancellation fees that could result from illness, accident, death or other contingencies. Once a booking has been confirmed, one amendment to travel arrangements will be made free-of charge. Subsequent changes to travel arrangements will incur an amendment fee of $25 per change in addition to supplier charges.
4. MINIMUM WORKSHOP VACATION NUMBERS:
Each Painting Workshop Vacation has been priced on the basis of a minimum number of members travelling. In the event that fewer than the minimum number of members have confirmed their booking 90 days from the date of commencement, Travelrite International reserves the right to cancel the Workshop Vacation, giving a full refund of monies paid, or to offer arrangements to proceed with the Workshop Vacation at a modified price.
5. GENERAL:
In the unlikely event that the Workshop tutor is unable to perform his or her duties due to unforeseen contingencies, Travelrite International reserves the right to substitute another artist as tutor or to continue with the Workshop Vacation as planned or to provide a cash refund to Workshop members equivalent to the value of the Workshop leadership. International Artist Painting Workshops can involve a considerable amount of walking and stair-climbing in the regions visited and it is important that all members have a level of physical fitness that allows them to take part in these activities without the need of assistance from others.
6. TAX CONSIDERATIONS:
If you regularly sell your own paintings, you may fall into the semi-professional or professional category for taxation purposes and the tour cost may be tax-deductible. We recommend that you seek the advice of a qualified tax adviser.
7. RESPONSIBILITIES:
Travelrite International Pty Ltd., their agents, officers, affiliates, and/or suppliers of services pursuant to or in connection with these Workshop Vacations shall act only as agents in making arrangements for hotels, transportation, restaurants, or any other service and do not assume any liability whatsoever for any injury, damage, death, loss, accident or delay to person or property due to an act of negligence or of default of any hotel, carrier, restaurant, company or person rendering any services included in the Workshops, or by act of God. Further, no responsibilities are accepted for any damage or delay due to sickness, pilferage, labor disputes, machinery breakdown, quarantine, government restraints, weather, terrorism, or other causes beyond their control. No responsibility is accepted for any additional expenses, omissions, delays, rerouting or acts of any government or authority. Baggage remains at owner's risk throughout the Workshop Vacation. The passage contract in use by the carriers concerned, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the carriers and the purchasers of these Painting Workshop Vacations and/or the passengers. The right is reserved to withdraw any Painting Workshop Vacation and/or to make such changes in the Painting Workshop Vacation as may be found desirable for the convenience of the parties and the proper carrying-out of the Painting Workshop Vacation. Registration for any Painting Workshop Vacation constitutes a contract which shall be construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Victoria, Australia and any legal action must be taken in the State of Victoria.
HOW TO BOOK:
Bookings can be made by completing the online booking form or sending it with a deposit to:
Travelrite International Pty Ltd
423 Whitehorse Road, Balwyn, VIC 3103 Australia
Toll Free: 1800 630 343 | Phone: 03 9836 2522 | Email: | www.paintingworkshops.net
ABOUT TRAVELRITE INTERNATIONAL:
Travelrite International Pty Ltd is a well-established travel company which has been operating in Victoria for more than 40 years. It has a fully ATAS accredited office at Balwyn which are also accredited with IATA. As such they directly represent the major airlines of the world and all major domestic and international hotel, tour and transport operators. Travelrite International Pty Ltd is a full member of the Australian Travel Industry Association - ATIA.
