Kirra Tours 23 day All New Zealand Ultimate
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The All New Zealand Ultimate tour taking you off the beaten track to locations not normally visited on a regular coach touring holiday as well as the 'must see' locations throughout New Zealand. Sail a yacht on Auckland Harbour, spend a day with Kiwi Dundee on the Coromandel, 2 nights in Nelson and time to visit the Abel Tasman National Park, overnight in Wanaka, overnight on Milford Sound plus 2 nights in Dunedin with the bonus of the tropical Bay of Islands! Perfect tours for the return visitor and anyone wanting a really unique holiday.
Day 1 - Welcome to Auckland
Welcome to Auckland, transfer to hotel
On arrival into Auckland a representative of Kirra Tours will meet you from your flight and a transfer will deliver you to your pre tour hotel accommodation.
| Your accommodation: Rydges Hotel, Auckland Nestled in the heart of Auckland's CBD, Rydges Auckland offers an ideal location. The hotel is a short stroll from business and retail districts, the Casino, the America's Cup Viaduct Village and superb waterfront restaurants. |
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Day 2 - Auckland to Bay of Islands
Auckland to Bay of Islands
Your tour departs from Rydges Auckland Hotel, Federal Street, City at 7.30am. Cross Auckland's distinctive Harbour Bridge to drive north along the Hibiscus Coast, through Kawakawa to Paihia in the Bay of Islands. Here we meet our local Maori guide, a descendant of the original settlers to the region, who will provide a comprehensive insight and history of the Bay of Islands before a visit to New Zealand's birthplace, Waitangi. A self guided tour through the famous Treaty House, the Maori Meeting House and giant war canoe all set in spectacular grounds overlooking the bay. This afternoon enjoy a launch cruise on the Bay crossing the areas world renowned game fishing grounds to the Cape Brett Lighthouse and famous "Hole in the Rock". Return through the inner islands with their beautiful sandy beaches, sparkling waters and marine life.
| Your accommodation: Tanoa Hotel, Bay of Islands Located close to the centre of Paihia and its major visitor attractions, Hotel Paihia is ideally positioned as a base from where to explore the Bay of Islands. |
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Day 3 - Bay of Islands free day
Bay of Islands
A day free for you to relax and enjoy the many optional activities available. Your Coach Captain will happily assist with details. A full day Tour to Cape Reinga, New Zealand's northern most point and Ninety Mile Beach or explore historic Russell, New Zealand's first settlement and visit its original Church, Mission House and Museum.
| Your accommodation: Tanoa Hotel, Bay of Islands Located close to the centre of Paihia and its major visitor attractions, Hotel Paihia is ideally positioned as a base from where to explore the Bay of Islands. |
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Day 4 - Bay of Islands cruise then to Auckland
Bay of Islands to Auckland
A launch cruise will take you across the Bay and world acclaimed fishing grounds to Cape Brett and the famous "Hole in the Rock". Returning to Paihia, board your Coach for the journey south through Whangarei and Warkworth passing the satellite tracking station. Shortly Auckland city and Harbour come into view.
| Your accommodation: Rydges Hotel, Auckland Nestled in the heart of Auckland's CBD, Rydges Auckland offers an ideal location. The hotel is a short stroll from business and retail districts, the Casino, the America's Cup Viaduct Village and superb waterfront restaurants. |
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Day 5 - Auckland to Whangamata
Auckland to Whangamata, Coromandel Peninsular
A tour of Auckland, to the summit of Skytower, at 328 metres one of the tallest buildings in the Southern Hemisphere, the downtown city area and waterfront drive, then experience the thrill of sailing aboard a 15m yacht on Auckland Harbour and visiting the Maritime Museum, all before driving to the Coromandel Peninsula.
| Your accommodation: Breakers Motel, Whangamata Breakers Motel - a unique getaway on the Coromandel Peninsula of New Zealand tucked in by a reserve bordering on the estuary. |
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Day 6 - The Coromandel
Whangamata, Coromandel Peninsular
A day of fun and entertainment with Kiwi Dundee Adventures. Explore regenerating Kauri forest and lush fern groves, the old roads to Puketui, an 1890's gold mining town and visit a gold mine studded with glow-worms. Walk on isolated beaches and if conditions permit, a dip in the springs at Hot Water Beach.
| Your accommodation: Breakers Motel, Whangamata Breakers Motel - a unique getaway on the Coromandel Peninsula of New Zealand tucked in by a reserve bordering on the estuary. |
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Day 7 - Whangamata to Rotorua
Whangamata to Rotorua
On to Rotorua and the Agrodome to see New Zealand's various sheep breeds and a shearing demonstration. Stroll through Rainbow Springs Park to see Rainbow and Brown Trout plus native birds and animals including the Kiwi. Take the spectacular Skyline Skyride for superb views over the city, lake and mountains and try a Luge ride with our compliments.
Group highlight dinner: This evening enjoy a Maori hangi (meal) with traditionally prepared meats and vegetables plus conventional dishes and followed by a concert featuring Maori songs, chants and the stirring haka. Lake Rotorua.
Meals included - group highlight dinner and a Maori concert
This evening your tour group enjoys a traditionally prepared Maori hangi meal followed by a concert featuring Maori songs, chants and dance. A wonderful evening offering a taste and introduction to this unique culture.
| Your accommodation: Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua The Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua enjoys a location that is second-to-none on the very shores of beautiful Lake Rotorua, adjacent to the world famous Polynesian Spa complex and just a short stroll to all the attractions in Rotorua. |
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Day 8 - Rotorua to Masterton
Rotorua to Masterton
Pass massive pine forests, see the Wairakei Geothermal Valley and Huka Falls to reach Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake. A brief sightseeing tour or try white water rafting before following the shores of Lake Taupo to Turangi. Continue through to Masterton where tonight you will be treated to a tasting from famous Schoc Chocolates of Greytown.
| Your accommodation: Copthorne Hotel Wairarapa Nestled in the lush Wairarapa valley, framed by the towering Tararua Ranges, Copthorne Wairarapa is set in 24 acres of landscaped grounds on the southern outskirts of Masterton. Facilities include a café, two restaurants, two bars, a 10 bay golf driving range, indoor & outdoor pools, spas, squash and tennis facilities. |
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Day 9 - Masterton to Wellington
Masterton to Wellington
Visit Greytown then through the Rimutaka Forest Park to reach the capital city Wellington. A tour includes Mt Victoria, the Houses of Parliament, Wellington Cathedral and Oriental Bay with time to explore the city and Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand.
| Your accommodation: The Bay Plaza Hotel, Wellington The Bay Plaza Hotel is located on Wellington's vibrant Oriental Parade not far from the famous Embassy Theatre that has staged the world premiere of 'The Lord of the Rings'. It is only minutes away from cafes, restaurants, bars, theatres, Museum of New Zealand (Te Papa) and shopping areas. |
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Day 10 - Wellington to Picton to Blenheim to Nelson
Wellington to Blenheim to Nelson
Join the Interislander Ferry for the scenic cruise to Picton, enjoy spectacular views of Wellington and the sheltered waters of Queen Charlotte Sound. Welcomed by your Coach Captain then on to Montana Winery for a tasting and winery tour. From this renowned wine region it's a fascinating drive to Nelson noted for its arts and crafts.
| Your accommodation: Leisure Lodge Nelson Facilities include a top quality licensed restaurant and bar and a relaxing outdoor area with swimming pool and spa pool. Leisure Lodge Motor Inn is centrally located in Nelson City and within 5 minutes walking distance to City Centre. |
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Day 11 - Nelson and Abel Tasman National Park
Nelson or Abel Tasman National Park
We recommend an optional day tour to the Abel Tasman National Park, inclusive of all transfers and a picnic lunch. By coach to Kaiteriteri then board a comfortable launch to cruise along the parks coastline. Either go ashore at Torrent Bay and walk 2 hours to Bark Bay or come ashore at Bark Bay and explore that area. From Bark Bay by launch, retrace your journey arriving in Nelson at 5.00pm. Alternatively, explore Nelson, follow the art trail, galleries and coffee shops featuring art, pottery, jewellery, wood and more or visit Tahunanui with its broad beaches and coastal panoramas.
Abel Tasman Day Tour Option:
Abel Tasman National Park is located in the north western corner of the South Island with easy access from Nelson. The famous walking track passes through unspoilt native forest largely following the coastline, giving frequent views of the gently curved beaches of golden sand, tranquil lagoons and meandering streams. The water is clear and clean, home to a variety of fish as well as dolphins, penguins and seals. The following 3 options are available:
Vista Cruise & Walk – A more active option including the launch cruise and bush walk experience. Walk along the well graded coastal track from Torrent Bay to Bark Bay (approx. 2 hours walking – unguided)
Vista Cruise & Beach Stop – Perfect for those wanting both a comfortable cruise and beach stop with optional bush walk experience. You choose to do a 1 hour unguided round trip bush walk or simply relax on the beach and enjoy.
Vista Cruise – See the full coast of this stunning National Park aboard the launch. Cruise the length of the coastline stopping at the bays and coves dropping and picking up walkers along the way.
There is no need to decide which particular option you would like to do until you reach the National Park. Simply include the option when reserving your Ultimate coach tour holiday.| Your accommodation: Leisure Lodge Nelson Facilities include a top quality licensed restaurant and bar and a relaxing outdoor area with swimming pool and spa pool. Leisure Lodge Motor Inn is centrally located in Nelson City and within 5 minutes walking distance to City Centre. |
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Day 12 - Nelson to Greymouth
Nelson to Greymouth
Lush farmlands then forest covered ranges to the rugged Buller Gorge - a spectacular scenic drive. Visit Westport and the coast near Cape Foulwind, possibly lunch at the award winning Beach House Cafe and south to explore the Pancake rocks at Punakaiki. At Greymouth visit the Jade Boulder Gallery to see native jade, mined in remote alpine valleys crafted into fine jewellery.
| Your accommodation: Hotel Ashley Greymouth The hotel's location is ideal for exploring the beautiful West Coast of New Zealand's South Island and just as perfect to relax, unwind and taking it easy. Only 5 minutes from the Greymouth town centre, the hotel is framed by rugged coast, rainforest and the magnificent Southern Alps. |
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Day 13 - Greymouth to Fox Glacier
Greymouth to Fox Glacier
Remote farms, tiny landlocked lakes with dense native bush and forest, all dominated by the towering Southern Alps, highlight your journey to Fox Glacier. Plenty of time to enjoy a guided walk to the glaciers terminal face, a helicopter flight and snow landing or walk to nearby Lake Matheson.
| Your accommodation: Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier The Fox Glacier Resort Hotel is nestled at the base of the majestic Southern Alps in the Westland World Heritage Park. Originally built in 1928 it has been refurbished to retain its charming atmosphere. |
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Day 14 - Fox Glacier to Wanaka
Fox Glacier to Wanaka
Follow the rugged coastline then inland across the Alps and the Haast Pass to the impressive bushlands of the Mt. Aspiring National Park. At Wanaka you'll have a choice of two afternoon activities: a launch cruise across the lake to Stevensons Island nature reserve, for a bush walk followed by refreshments. Look for the native Buff Weka, a small, flightless bird whose curiosity is likely to attract them close to you. Alternatively enjoy a thrilling jet boat excursion on the lake - full on exciting, leisurely scenic cruising or somewhere in between.
| Your accommodation: Oakridge Resort A vibrant yet relaxing place to stay, combined with an aura of new age modernism. Oakridge Resort Lake Wanaka offers stunning mountain views, featuring an extensive range of accommodation including self catering deluxe apartments. Located 2 kms from Wanaka township or a 15 minute walk. |
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Day 15 - Wanaka to Queenstown
Wanaka to Queenstown
Drive through a picturesque region that has a fascinating history of early settlement and gold mining for a late morning arrival into the ever-popular resort of Queenstown.
Meals included -group highlight dinner at Queenstown's Skyline Gondola Restaurant
Take a ride to the top on the Queenstown Skyline Gondola this evening and enjoy dinner while soaking in the fantastic views from the Skyline restaurant.
| Your accommodation: Rydges Hotel Queenstown Situated on the shores of beautiful Lake Wakatipu, Rydges Lakeland Resort Queenstown boasts breathtaking views over the lake and surrounding mountains. |
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Day 16 - Queenstown free day
Queenstown free day
Explore Queenstown at your leisure.
| Your accommodation: Rydges Hotel Queenstown Situated on the shores of beautiful Lake Wakatipu, Rydges Lakeland Resort Queenstown boasts breathtaking views over the lake and surrounding mountains. |
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Day 17 - Queenstown free day
Queenstown free day
Explore Queenstown at your leisure.
| Your accommodation: Rydges Hotel Queenstown Situated on the shores of beautiful Lake Wakatipu, Rydges Lakeland Resort Queenstown boasts breathtaking views over the lake and surrounding mountains. |
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Day 18 - Queenstown to Milford Sound and an overnight cruise
Queenstown to Milford Sound
Follow Lake Wakatipu to Kingston, across fertile farmlands to Fiordland. Visit moody Lake Manapouri then Lake Te Anau. Follow the Eglinton Valley, native forests, lakes, waterfalls and towering mountains. At The Divide collect the Greenstone Trek group and travel through the Hollyford Valley and Homer Tunnel to Milford Sound. Board the Milford Mariner for an overnight cruise - an undoubted highlight.
Includes dinner and breakfast.
| Your accommodation: Milford Mariner On board the Milford Mariner you will cruise the full length of this spectacular fiord to the Tasman Sea before anchoring for the night in sheltered Harrison Cove. After the days activities you enjoy a delicious evening buffet in the spacious saloon before retiring to your cabin. |
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Day 19 - Milford Sound to Dunedin
Milford Sound to Dunedin
Wake to the sounds of silence in a pristine world. Rugged and remote mountains change to lush green countryside, which in turn gives way to rolling hills as you approach Dunedin, the ‘Edinburgh of the South'. This evening prior to Dinner you will be treated to a traditional Scottish Haggis Ceremony, complete with piper, address to the Haggis and gift.
| Your accommodation: Scenic Circle Dunedin City Just two blocks from the Octagon in the heart of the city, Scenic Circle Dunedin City Hotel is close to shops, parks and the best city attractions and services. The hotel provides excellent 4-star accommodation to Dunedin?s visitors. |
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Day 20 - Dunedin
Dunedin
A day to enjoy at your leisure with a multitude of optional activities available. A Monarch Wildlife Cruise, Natures Wonders Tour (both featuring penguins, seals and birdlife), the Taieri Gorge Railway, a Citibus Newtons Tour, fascinating Larnach's Castle or Tour the Cadbury Factory or Speights Brewery.
| Your accommodation: Scenic Circle Dunedin City Just two blocks from the Octagon in the heart of the city, Scenic Circle Dunedin City Hotel is close to shops, parks and the best city attractions and services. The hotel provides excellent 4-star accommodation to Dunedin?s visitors. |
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Day 21 - Dunedin to Oamarama
Dunedin to Omarama
Visit Olveston, Dunedin's majestic historic home with its original furnishings. See bush clad hillsides, tidal estuaries and a rocky coastline, view the unusual Moeraki Boulders then explore Oamaru. Follow the Waitaki Valley, passing several hydro lakes to Omarama.
| Your accommodation: Heritage Gateway Hotel Positioned at the crossroads linking north, south, east and west, the Heritage Gateway Hotel truly is the Gateway of the South. With 98 pleasantly decorated rooms, a full restaurant and cocktail bar with views of the Southern Alps, the Heritage Gateway Hotel has everything you need to rest and refresh. |
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Day 22 - Omarama to Mt Cook to Christchurch
Omarama to Mt Cook to Christchurch
Pass the milky blue waters of Lake Pukaki to Mt Cook National Park and village, amidst New Zealand’s highest mountains. At Lake Tekapo view the Church of the Good Shepherd and Collie Dog memorial with time for a highly recommended (optional) flight with Air Safaris. Descend Burkes Pass to the Canterbury Plains and Christchurch. Your tour concludes at approximately 5.00pm after a brief city tour.
| Your accommodation: Pavilions Hotel Christchurch Pavilions Hotel is located very close to the city centre of Christchurch and has been designed with your total comfort in mind. Facilities included swimming pool, spa pool and private sauna and a 24 hour reception service provides help whenever you need it. |
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Day 23 - Depart Christchurch today
Transfer to Christchurch airport
You will be collected from your hotel and transferred to Christchurch airport in time for your onward flight.
Standard tour inclusions:
- Quality hotel accommodation.
- 2 highlight dinners
- Dinner on Milford Sound overnight cruise
- Travel in luxurious, well appointed and fully air-conditioned tour coaches.
- Escorted by a professional Coach Captain.
- An informative commentary as you travel.
- Comprehensive sightseeing admission fees and attractions as detailed with each itinerary.
- Baggage handling / porterage.
- Travel kit including travel bag, ticket wallet, maps and itinerary.
- Goods and Services tax (g.s.t).
Sightseeing and attraction inclusions:
Cape Brett Cruise - Bay of Islands
The most popular cruise in the Bay of Islands on a luxury catamaran through big game fishing waters to Cape Brett Lighthouse. Next is Motukokako Island and excitement grows as you make passage through the "Hole in the Rock" and on to Grand Cathedral Cave. Meander through the inner islands stopping at Otehei Bay for a swim or scenic walk.
Matakohe Kauri Museum - Northland
An amazing look at the early history, settlement and economy of the region based on the mighty Kauri tree. Amazing displays feature giant kauri logs, a steam sawmill, machinery and equipment displays, a blacksmiths workshop, gumdiggers hut and a fully furnished 6 room house C1900 including dressed models. Displays also include kauri gum exhibit of fine carved pieces.
Waitangi Treaty Grounds - Bay of Islands
The Waitangi National Trust Treaty Grounds is a unique and fascinating insight into New Zealand's historic past. New Zealand's most significant document, The Treaty of Waitangi, was signed here in 1840 between the Maori Chiefs and British Crown. A self guided tour lets you explore the first Governor of New Zealand's residence, a Waka (Maori war canoe) and relax amongst the beautiful scenery.
Visit the summit of one of the tallest buildings in the Southern Hemisphere at
328 metres it affords superb views of Auckland City, its two harbours and the volcanic cone of Rangitoto Island.
Pride of Auckland Sailing Experience
Cruise Auckland's inner harbour under sail on a 15 metre monohull yacht with the opportunity to take the helm. Enjoy the city's sights such as the Viaduct Basin and the Harbour Bridge from a sailor's perspective with this 45min sailing experience. Also included is entry to the Auckland Maritime Museum.
Kiwi Dundee Wilderness Adventures - The Coromandel
Fun and adventure with Kiwi Dundee Adventures who are passionate about the Coromandel and are dedicated to saving the region's rare and beautiful flora and fauna. Explore the regenerating Kauri forests and lush fern groves, visit an historic gold mine and visit Hot Water Beach. Kiwi Dundee is consistently ranked by Kirra Tours passengers as one of the best activities of their New Zealand holiday.
Rainbow Springs - Rotorua
Enjoy the tranquility of the crystal clear water that flows tirelessly from the subterranean springs. Marvel at the silent grace of the magnificent specimens of Rainbow, Brown and Tiger trout, cruising the fern-fringed pools. See a live kiwi foraging for food, walk through our native New Zealand bush, see a silver fern and come face to face with a Tuatara, a living dinosaur!
Agrodome - Rotorua
Agrodome is a world famous live sheep show featuring 19 stud rams on stage, a sheep shearing demonstration, working huntaway dogs, an auction, plus woollen mill. Be treated to an entertaining and interactive show.
Te Puia - Rotorua
New Zealand's premier multi cultural and geothermal visitor experience. The geothermal valley has ancient geysers, mud pools and boiling waters which still play after 40,000 years. Also see the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute where apprentices carve history into meeting houses, canoes, weapons and jewellery.
Hangi and Concert - Rotorua
All tours in Rotorua enjoy an evening Maori hangi (feast) and concert at the Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua. Experience and enjoy a traditionally prepared and cooked hangi and be entertained with songs and dances, including the poi, relating ancient stories and legends.
Skyline Skyrides - Rotorua
Travel up the Rotorua gondola to the Skyline set high on the side of Mt Ngongotaha with extensive views of Rotorua city, lake, geothermal activity and surrounding hinterlands. Included are two rides on the luge track, which is fun for all ages!
Interislander Ferry Crossing - Wellington to Picton
Often likened to a cruise this fascinating 3 hour journey will take you through Wellington Harbour, across the Cook Strait and into the magnificent Marlborough Sounds.
Montana Brancott Winery - Blenheim
Including a guided tour and tasting of New Zealand's premier wines, the Brancott Winery gives you the opportunity to see the revolutionary new grape tipper tanks - the first of their kind in the world and the imposing cuvee room, where Montana's premium red wines are fermented in oak. Also includes afternoon tea.
Greenstone Jade Factory - Greymouth
Visit the Greenstone Factory where you will see skilled craftsmen create fine jewellery, contemporary carvings of traditional Maori or modern designs and beautiful sculptures from New Zealand nephrite jade, which has been recovered in the Westland area.
Lakeland Adventures - Lake Wanaka
In the quiet resort of Lake Wanaka there is a choice of either a relaxing launch cruise to Stevenson's Island Nature Reserve where we take a gentle bush walk to the island lookout or take a walk along the Clutha River to board the Clutha River Jet for an exciting jet boat ride on the river and its rapids.
Skyline Gondola and Dinner - Queenstown
Ride the Gondola to Bob's Peak high above the Queenstown township to end the day with the Taste of New Zealand Buffet dinner whilst enjoying unsurpassed views out over Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range.
Milford Sound Overnight Cruise
On the Ultimate series of tours the Milford Mariner offers a very special dinner, bed and breakfast experience in an incredible setting. Enjoy an overnight cruise on Milford Sound in this purpose built vessel accommodating up to 60 passengers in private cabins with en-suite bathrooms. A large open deck area and observation lounge provide for unequal views of the Sound and activities include kayaking and exploring the shoreline on the tender craft.
Haggis Ceremony - Dunedin
Enjoy a traditional Scottish haggis ceremony in the Edinburgh of the South where descendants of Robbie Burns still live. Hear the famous ‘Address to the Haggis', before tasting this very unique national dish of Scotland. This is a fun start to your evening, with group participation and you'll also receive a souvenir gift.
Olveston House - Dunedin
Olveston is a modern masterpiece of the Edwardian Era. In 1966 Olveston was offered as an extraordinary gift to the City of Dunedin. The 35-room mansion houses original collections. In material terms, as Olveston grows older it grows infinitely more valuable. In historic terms, it is already priceless.