New Zealand Travel Blog

Morning: Depart Christchurch and Journey Along the Great Alpine Highway

Your day begins with a pick-up from your Christchurch hotel by your knowledgeable private driver-guide. As you leave the city, the Great Alpine Highway (State Highway 73) beckons with its dramatic landscapes, transitioning from the lush Canterbury Plains to the foothills of the Southern Alps.

Day 1: Arrival in Queenstown

Your adventure begins in the vibrant alpine town of Queenstown. After settling into your luxurious accommodation—perhaps the renowned Eichardt’s Private Hotel, located on the edge of Lake Wakatipu—spend the day at your leisure. Stroll along the lakeside, sample local wines, or indulge in a spa treatment to unwind from your journey.

Enjoy a gourmet dinner at Rātā, one of Queenstown’s finest restaurants, before retiring to your elegant suite with panoramic views of the Remarkables mountain range.

Discover the Abel Tasman Coastal Track

The Abel Tasman Coastal Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, is famed for its golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush native forest. This track spans 60 kilometers and offers an idyllic mix of terrain, from easy walking paths to more challenging sections with tidal crossings.

Unveiling Banks Peninsula's Beauty

The Banks Peninsula is a geologically fascinating area formed by the remnants of two ancient volcanoes, Akaroa and Lyttelton. This unique terrain has created a patchwork of rolling hills, dramatic coastal cliffs, and picturesque bays. Walking this track immerses you in a stunning mix of native flora and fauna, including waterfalls, sandy beaches, and thriving wildlife such as seals and native birds like bellbirds and fantails.