Discover Sicily
- Return flights
- 7 nights in 4-star hotels
- 15 included meals: 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 7 dinners
8 days from
£1,999
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Breathtaking New Zealand with Cook Islands Add-on
From £9,623
Duration 24 Days
Departures from: Jan 2025 - Nov 2027
From £9,623
Duration 24 Days
Departures from:
Jan 2025 - Nov 2027
Tour Overview
Extend your holiday with a stay in Rarotonga, the largest of the 15 Cook Islands. You'll stay in the Manuia Beach Resort, perfectly situated on a white-sand beach, where you can indulge in days of rest and relaxation.
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All Breakfasts
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Classic Touring
Your Holiday Includes
- Just You Holiday Director as your host & Specialist Local Guide
- Return flights from London
- Use of an airport lounge in the UK
- 14 nights in 3 & 4-star hotels plus 3 nights in flight
- 17 meals: 14 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners including welcome & farewell drinks
- Overseas transfers, other transportation & porterage
Your add-on includes
- Scheduled flights, overseas transfers and other transportation
- 5 nights' accommodation on a bed-and-breakfast basis, 4 nights at Manuia Beach Resort in Rarotonga and 1 night in Auckland
- The services of a Local Representative
- Porterage
Included Holiday Highlights
- Waitomo glow worm grotto
- Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch & Napier sightseeing
- Te Puia Thermal Reserve
- Dinner & wine-tasting at the Mission Estate Winery
- Journey on the TranzAlpine Train
- Cruise on Milford Sound
Itinerary
Day 3 Auckland
We'll arrive in Auckland today. There is time to rest after your flight before we gather as a group for dinner.
Meals included: DDay 4 Auckland
The beautiful city of Auckland is the largest in New Zealand, situated on the North Island in the Hauraki Gulf. We'll admire its spectacular skyline on an included tour this morning, which takes us to all the must-see sights. Later, you will have time to explore the city further in the company of your fellow travellers.
Day 5 Auckland - Rotorua
The warm, emerald-green North Island was shaped by volcanic activity, and evidence of this remains in the thermal springs surrounding Rotorua. En-route we will journey through the dairy-rich Waikato farming region, home of the Maori kingdom, and visit the world-famous Waitomo Caves. The amazing glow-worm grotto is a fascinating sight and we will explore in the company of a Local Guide.
You can also take an optional flight today, either by float-plane or helicopter, over Mount Tarawera Volcano. You'll learn how the volcano's 1886 eruption - the largest in New Zealand's living memory - affected the landscape and, if you chose the helicopter flight, you will actually land at the site of the eruption. Those choosing the float-plane excursion will have the added excitement of taking off and landing on water at the Rotorua City Lakefront.
Day 6 Rotorua - at Leisure
Today you have the option to join a tour of Hobbiton, the location created for the Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit films. We'll explore the site, which includes hobbit holes, while our guide offers fascinating insight – a must for fans of the films.
Te Puia Thermal Reserve is home to the extraordinary boiling mud pools and spouting geysers that New Zealand is so famous for. We will call here this morning to see this spectacular sight for ourselves.
Tonight, you'll have a chance to experience a Maori concert and sample an authentic Hangi meal on an optional tour. This is where your food is cooked by steam underground using a centuries-old method that harnesses the power of nature.
Day 7 Rotorua - Napier
The route to Napier takes us through the Wairakei Valley, past the spectacular Huka Falls to beautiful Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest freshwater lake. We will pause here to take in the mesmerising views. Napier is home to one of the finest collections of Art Deco-style buildings in the world and has the ideal climate for growing grapes. Sampling some of the locally cultivated wines is certain to be a treat before we discover more about the town as we explore on foot in the company of your Holiday Director. We'll enjoy a group dinner this evening at a winery estate.
Meals included: B,DDay 8 Napier - Wellington
Wellington, New Zealand's wonderful capital, enjoys a beautiful setting on the southern tip of the North Island. We'll head here today with an orientation tour on arrival to highlight the city's main sights.
Day 9 Wellington - at Leisure
We have left today free for you to explore the city with your travelling companions. Perhaps take the cable car to the Botanical Gardens or visit the Te Papa Museum, which offers a wealth of information about New Zealand and its history, along with a collection of art.
Meals included: BDay 10 Wellington - Christchurch
We set sail for the South Island today. Once back on land, we continue the drive to Christchurch, often referred to as the most English city outside of England. We'll enjoy the stunning scenery of the Kaikoura coast along the way.
Day 11 TranzAlpine Train
The TranzAlpine offers a spectacular journey into the Southern Alps. We'll be on board the train from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass, the South Island's highest railway station, passing through the contrasting scenery of the snow-capped Southern Alps and majestic gorges. At Arthur's Pass we rejoin our coach and continue south to the magnificent scenery and glaciers of the Franz Josef and Fox Glacier regions. Perhaps join a helicopter flight with a landing on the glacier for another view of this stunning landscape.
Day 12 Franz Josef Glacier - Queenstown
The road through Westland National Park is one of the most scenic ever built, with tremendous ocean views to one side and spectacular forest views to the other. Experience it for yourself as we head to Queenstown, a popular resort in both summer and winter, travelling south crossing the Haast River Bridge and passing Lake Hawea and Lake Wanaka along the way. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, why not take an optional ride on the Kawarau jet boat.
Meals included: BDay 13 Milford Sound
Milford Sound is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful locations in New Zealand. Te Anau is the gateway to Fjordland National Park and our first port of call on today's tour. We continue through the lush beech forests of the Eglinton Valley and the eroded glacial canyons of the Hollyford Valley, before arriving at Milford Sound itself. A cruise on the Sound, which we include weather permitting, is a great way to appreciate the beauty of the area, and lunch is also included.
Meals included: B,LDay 14 Queenstown - at Leisure
Explore Queenstown in the company of your fellow travellers or perhaps join us on an optional excursion.
If you're feeling adventurous, there's a fantastic opportunity to take an exhilarating jet boat ride on the Dart River.
This evening, if you wish, you could enjoy a relaxing steamship cruise on Lake Wakatipu and a gourmet barbecue dinner in the Colonel's Homestead at Walter Peak.
Day 15 Queenstown - Omarama
Today we travel via the gold-mining town of Arrowtown. New Zealand's spectacular scenery is never-ending and another stunning route delivers us to the Mount Cook region today. If you wish you can take an optional scenic flight over some of New Zealand's highest mountains and largest glaciers. Your pilot will provide interesting commentary as you admire them from the air.
Day 16 Omarama - Christchurch
A lovely drive this morning takes us across Burkes Pass and onwards to Lake Tekapo. We will travel over the Canterbury Plains and on to Christchurch, where an orientation tour introduces us to all the main sights. This evening we will gather with the group to enjoy a farewell drink.
Day 17 Christchurch - Cook Islands
Transfer to the airport for your flight to the Cook Islands via Auckland. As you cross the International Dateline, you will arrive on the previous date.
Meals included: BDay 18 Cook Islands
On arrival in the Cook Islands we will travel to our hotel for four night's stay.We will stay at the Manuia Beach Resort in Rarotonga, described as a Polynesian Paradise. A small boutique resort on the sunset coast, featuring spacious guest bedrooms, tropical gardens and a beautiful beachfront location.
There is a beach side infinity pool which overlooks the lagoon, whilst coconut trees line the shore. Refreshing tropical cocktails and traditional local Polynesian cuisine are served at the On the Beach Restaurant and Bar.
Day 19 Cook Islands
Your stay is in Rarotonga, the capital and the hub of the Cook Islands. You are free to relax and enjoy this paradise island which is surrounded by a sparkling blue lagoon and steeped in Polynesian culture.
Meals included: BDay 20 Cook Islands
You are free to relax today and explore the island further, with not a traffic light to be seen, getting around Rarotonga can be a casual meander on the island bus. Optional excursions will be available to book through our agents.
Meals included: BDay 21 Cook Islands
Enjoy getting to know this cultural island with its traditional arts and crafts of weaving, carving and painting which are integral parts of the island or join an optional excursion.
Meals included: BDay 22 Cook Islands - Auckland
Today enjoy further what Rarotonga has to offer, with its pearly white sand lined beaches with swaying palm trees, enticingly warm temperatures and a relaxed ambience, enjoy your last day before travelling to the airport for your flight back to New Zealand. Meals included: BDay 24 Auckland - UK
This morning we travel to the airport for your flight back to the UK.
Meals included: BAdditional Information
Please note that our 01 Mar 25 departure will include a 5 night stay at Manuia Beach Resort in Rarotonga, for any other departures it will be a 4 night stay at Manuia Beach Resort. This is due to flight schedules.Accommodation (as specified or similar)
Crowne Plaza Auckland
Crowne Plaza Auckland is situated within walking distance from a range of shopping and dining options on Queen Street. It is also in close proximity to main sightseeing attractions of Auckland. Modern rooms feature en-suite facilities, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and sleep-aid aromatherapy kits. Other hotel facilities include gym, sauna, a lobby cocktail bar and a restaurant.
Crowne Plaza Auckland is situated within walking distance from a range of shopping and dining options on Queen Street. It is also in close proximity to main sightseeing attractions of Auckland. Modern rooms feature en-suite facilities, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and sleep-aid aromatherapy kits. Other hotel facilities include gym, sauna, a lobby cocktail bar and a restaurant.
Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua
Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua is set on the shores of the lake and close to Rotorua's vibrant city centre.
Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar, outdoor swimming pool and spa. Bedrooms have private facilities, air-conditioning, TV, safe, refrigerator, iron, tea/coffee-maker and hairdryer.
Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua is set on the shores of the lake and close to Rotorua's vibrant city centre.
Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar, outdoor swimming pool and spa. Bedrooms have private facilities, air-conditioning, TV, safe, refrigerator, iron, tea/coffee-maker and hairdryer.
Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar, outdoor swimming pool and spa. Bedrooms have private facilities, air-conditioning, TV, safe, refrigerator, iron, tea/coffee-maker and hairdryer.
Scenic Hotel Te Pania
You will stay at the Scenic Hotel Te Pania perfectly located on the edge of Hawkes Bay. Hotel facilities include a restaurant and bar. Bedrooms have private facilities, TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee-making facilities.
You will stay at the Scenic Hotel Te Pania perfectly located on the edge of Hawkes Bay. Hotel facilities include a restaurant and bar. Bedrooms have private facilities, TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee-making facilities.
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
The 4-star James Cook Hotel has a great location in the heart of Wellington, close to Lambton Quay's shopping district.
Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar and fitness room. Bedrooms have private facilities, TV, minibar and tea- and coffee-making facilities.
The 4-star James Cook Hotel has a great location in the heart of Wellington, close to Lambton Quay's shopping district.
Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar and fitness room. Bedrooms have private facilities, TV, minibar and tea- and coffee-making facilities.
Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar and fitness room. Bedrooms have private facilities, TV, minibar and tea- and coffee-making facilities.
Distinction Christchurch Hotel
Distinction Christchurch Hotel is located in the heart of the city just a few steps away from the Avon River, Botanical Gardens, Christchurch Casino and many more attractions. Each hotel room is air-conditioned and features free Wi-Fi, smart TVs, minifridge and tea/coffee-making facilities. Other hotel amenities include restaurant and a bar, the perfect place to enjoy delicious cuisine and drinks.
Distinction Christchurch Hotel is located in the heart of the city just a few steps away from the Avon River, Botanical Gardens, Christchurch Casino and many more attractions. Each hotel room is air-conditioned and features free Wi-Fi, smart TVs, minifridge and tea/coffee-making facilities.
Other hotel amenities include restaurant and a bar, the perfect place to enjoy delicious cuisine and drinks.
Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
Scenic Franz Josef Hotel is located close to one of New Zealand's most spectacular natural attractions, the Franz Josef Glacier.
Hotel facilities include restaurant, bar/lounge and spa. Bedrooms have private facilities, air-conditioning, mini-bar, tea/coffee-maker, TV and hairdryer.
Scenic Franz Josef Hotel is located close to one of New Zealand's most spectacular natural attractions, the Franz Josef Glacier.
Hotel facilities include restaurant, bar/lounge and spa. Bedrooms have private facilities, air-conditioning, mini-bar, tea/coffee-maker, TV and hairdryer.
Hotel facilities include restaurant, bar/lounge and spa. Bedrooms have private facilities, air-conditioning, mini-bar, tea/coffee-maker, TV and hairdryer.
Holiday Inn Queenstown Frankton Road
Holiday Inn Queenstown Frankton Road has a peaceful setting amongst alpine scenery and picturesque lakes, yet it is conveniently close to the city.
Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, sauna and tennis court. Bedrooms have private facilities, tea and coffee-making facilities, TV, hairdryer and Wi-Fi.
Holiday Inn Queenstown Frankton Road has a peaceful setting amongst alpine scenery and picturesque lakes, yet it is conveniently close to the city.
Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, sauna and tennis court. Bedrooms have private facilities, tea and coffee-making facilities, TV, hairdryer and Wi-Fi.
Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, sauna and tennis court. Bedrooms have private facilities, tea and coffee-making facilities, TV, hairdryer and Wi-Fi.
Distinction Heritage Gateway Hotel
Heritage Gateway Hotel in Omarama is set amongst landscaped gardens offering wonderful views of the surrounding mountains.
Hotel facilities include a restaurant and bar. Bedrooms have private facilities, TV, iron, refrigerator, tea/coffee-maker and hairdryer.
Heritage Gateway Hotel in Omarama is set amongst landscaped gardens offering wonderful views of the surrounding mountains.
Hotel facilities include a restaurant and bar. Bedrooms have private facilities, TV, iron, refrigerator, tea/coffee-maker and hairdryer.
Hotel facilities include a restaurant and bar. Bedrooms have private facilities, TV, iron, refrigerator, tea/coffee-maker and hairdryer.
Distinction Christchurch Hotel
Distinction Christchurch Hotel is located in the heart of the city just a few steps away from the Avon River, Botanical Gardens, Christchurch Casino and many more attractions. Each hotel room is air-conditioned and features free Wi-Fi, smart TVs, minifridge and tea/coffee-making facilities. Other hotel amenities include restaurant and a bar, the perfect place to enjoy delicious cuisine and drinks.
Distinction Christchurch Hotel is located in the heart of the city just a few steps away from the Avon River, Botanical Gardens, Christchurch Casino and many more attractions. Each hotel room is air-conditioned and features free Wi-Fi, smart TVs, minifridge and tea/coffee-making facilities.
Other hotel amenities include restaurant and a bar, the perfect place to enjoy delicious cuisine and drinks.
Crowne Plaza Auckland
Crowne Plaza Auckland is situated within walking distance from a range of shopping and dining options on Queen Street. It is also in close proximity to main sightseeing attractions of Auckland. Modern rooms feature en-suite facilities, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and sleep-aid aromatherapy kits. Other hotel facilities include gym, sauna, a lobby cocktail bar and a restaurant.
Crowne Plaza Auckland is situated within walking distance from a range of shopping and dining options on Queen Street. It is also in close proximity to main sightseeing attractions of Auckland. Modern rooms feature en-suite facilities, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and sleep-aid aromatherapy kits. Other hotel facilities include gym, sauna, a lobby cocktail bar and a restaurant.
Optional Excursions
Experience even more of your destination by adding one or more optional excursions to your holiday before you set off. Take a look below at the extra trips you can enjoy on this tour.
New Zealand - Rotorua - Hobbiton
You will be transported to the Hobbiton Movie Set, a visitor attraction based at the site where the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogy were filmed. Your visit promises to be interesting and entertaining as you step into the pastures of the Shire and experience Middle-earth.
The tour begins with a drive through the picturesque sheep farm and an opportunity to admire spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges. Your guide will then escort you around the site sharing fascinating stories about how the Hobbiton Movie Set was created. Journey past the colourful Hobbit Hole™ doors that scatter the hillsides, including the iconic Bag End, home of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, before arriving at Bagshot Row™ for a glimpse of the interior of a humble Hobbit’s home.
Designed and crafted by the renowned creative teams behind the film trilogies, Bagshot Row offers an authentic glimpse into the charming dwellings of Hobbits going about daily life in the Shire. Your guide will lead you through one of two Hobbit Holes offering time to explore the detailed interiors, with each home designed to create an identical experience. Specially brewed beverages are available at The Green Dragon Inn to round off your tour.
This tour runs in all weather conditions. Umbrellas will be provided if it rains, however, you are advised to dress appropriately and wear comfortable shoes.
Half-day tour – Moderate walking – Must-do opportunity
The tour begins with a drive through the picturesque sheep farm and an opportunity to admire spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges. Your guide will then escort you around the site sharing fascinating stories about how the Hobbiton Movie Set was created. Journey past the colourful Hobbit Hole™ doors that scatter the hillsides, including the iconic Bag End, home of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, before arriving at Bagshot Row™ for a glimpse of the interior of a humble Hobbit’s home.
Designed and crafted by the renowned creative teams behind the film trilogies, Bagshot Row offers an authentic glimpse into the charming dwellings of Hobbits going about daily life in the Shire. Your guide will lead you through one of two Hobbit Holes offering time to explore the detailed interiors, with each home designed to create an identical experience. Specially brewed beverages are available at The Green Dragon Inn to round off your tour.
This tour runs in all weather conditions. Umbrellas will be provided if it rains, however, you are advised to dress appropriately and wear comfortable shoes.
Half-day tour – Moderate walking – Must-do opportunity
You will be transported to the Hobbiton Movie Set, a visitor attraction based at the site where the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogy were filmed. Your visit promises to be ...
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New Zealand - Queenstown - Jet Boat Ride
If you are looking for adrenaline rush, you must try a ride on the Jet Boat. Blast across Lake Wakatipu and down the world famous Shotover and Kawarau Rivers with 45 km of unforgettable thrills, 360-degree spins and exhilaration in one of the world’s most stunning locations.
60 Minutes - Unforgettable Experience
60 Minutes - Unforgettable Experience
If you are looking for adrenaline rush, you must try a ride on the Jet Boat. Blast across Lake Wakatipu and down the world famous Shotover and Kawarau Rivers with 45 km of unforget...
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New Zealand - Queenstown - Walter Peak Cruise and Dinner
A return scenic cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm on board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw. On disembarking at Walter Peak, you’ll be welcomed and guided through the lakeside gardens to the Colonel’s Homestead for the dinner. Colonel’s Homestead features a stately ballroom and finely appointed rooms each featuring a roaring open fire to evoke a cosy atmosphere on colder evenings. The gourmet BBQ menu incorporates the fresh seasonal produce and local seafood so famous in the Central Otago region and surrounding coastal areas. All meat and seafood are cooked on the outdoor BBQ and rotisserie, in front of guests and served immediately. A locally influenced wine list and other beverages are also available to purchase at the bar. Following dinner, you will have an option of a brief farm show or relax at the bar instead, before returning on board the TSS Earnslaw to Queenstown. A tradition is the TSS Earnslaw’s sing-along around the piano on the return journey.
Scenic Cruise – Dinner Included – Not to be Missed
Scenic Cruise – Dinner Included – Not to be Missed
A return scenic cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm on board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw. On disembarking at Walter Peak, you’ll be welcomed and gui...
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New Zealand - Rotorua - Cultural Experience including Tamaki Hangi Feast
Journey back to a time of proud warriors and ancient traditions with a visit to the Tamaki Maori Village. The most award-winning cultural attraction in New Zealand. Experience ceremonial rituals, powerful performances and hangi feasting. Learn about the customs, protocols and stories that have been passed through the generations of time. Welcome to the world of the Maori! These events change with each season of the maramataka, the Maori lunar calendar.
At the heart of the village you’ll be entertained with a powerful performance including action songs, poi, stick games and the world famous ‘haka’ – the Maori War Dance!
Given the nature of our Maori kai (cuisine) and culture experiences, we are unable to cater to all dietary needs. While we can meet gluten free requirements, we are not a coeliac approved kitchen. We can cater to vegetarian dietary requests, however, are unable to cater to vegan requirements.
Evening Event – Minimal Walking – Unforgettable
At the heart of the village you’ll be entertained with a powerful performance including action songs, poi, stick games and the world famous ‘haka’ – the Maori War Dance!
Given the nature of our Maori kai (cuisine) and culture experiences, we are unable to cater to all dietary needs. While we can meet gluten free requirements, we are not a coeliac approved kitchen. We can cater to vegetarian dietary requests, however, are unable to cater to vegan requirements.
Evening Event – Minimal Walking – Unforgettable
Journey back to a time of proud warriors and ancient traditions with a visit to the Tamaki Maori Village. The most award-winning cultural attraction in New Zealand. Experience cere...
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Further Information
- Deposit information
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When you book a holiday, you will be asked to pay a deposit, this will be made clear at the time of booking. In most cases we will charge the following deposit amount;
- UK Holidays - £150 per person
- European Holidays - £200 Per person
- Worldwide Holidays - £250 or 10% whichever is the greater
On some holidays we may charge a slightly higher deposit, to cover any costs we have to pay immediately to secure your booking with our suppliers. This will be made clear at the time of booking.
If you choose a tour that is within 84 days of departure you will need to pay the full balance when you book.
- Our cancellation policy
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If you decide to cancel your confirmed booking you must notify us (or your travel agent) in writing, as soon as possible. Since we incur costs in cancelling your arrangements, you will have to pay the applicable cancellation charges up to the maximum shown below.
- More than 75 days before departure - Loss of deposit only
- 43 - 74 days - 50% of tour price
- 29 - 42 days - 75% of tour price
- 15 - 28 days - 90% of tour price
- Day of Departure - 14 days - 100% of tour price
Our full cancellation policy can be found in our booking terms and conditions, section 8.
- How do I find out Entry and Health Requirements for my holiday?
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We have partnered with Sherpa, an on-line self service tool that allows you to search up-to-date information regarding travel entry requirements for all countries and also allows you to apply for eVisas or eTAs via their on-line portal. Just click on this link to find out more – Travel requirement & Visa Service.
You can also refer to the Foreign Travel Advice section on the gov.uk website: Foreign travel advice - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk). Click on your destination and then click on 'Entry Requirements'. For Health Requirements, the Department of Health also offers travellers health advice on www.travelhealthpro.org.uk, click on country information to locate your destination.
It is important to remember that passport, visa and health requirements can change before departure; therefore, we recommend you regularly familiarise yourself with the latest requirements before you travel. If you cannot travel because you have not complied with any passport/entry/immigration requirements, we are unable to accept any responsibility.
For some destinations, it is not always discernable that a visa is required for entry at the border. For example, for some customers, to travel to the United States, an ESTA may be required. For Canada, an ETA and to India, an e-visa may be needed. Please do check your requirements to avoid any unnecessary cost and delays.
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