Luxury Lodges of New Zealand Itinerary

‘Haere Mai’ and welcome to Queenstown.

Relax: you're now on vacation and we have taken care of everything for you. After meeting you at the airport we will help you to transfer to your waterfront hotel to settle in.

Sophisticated Queenstown offers bespoke and authentic luxury experiences in a beautiful snowy mountain setting, hosted by the naturally warm and welcoming Kiwi people. While the town is known for its wide variety of adventure activities, you needn't be an adrenaline junkie to enjoy Queenstown: the tranquil lake and mountain setting is a major part of its appeal. From relaxing vineyard tours or boat cruises to extreme adventures, Queenstown has it all.

For the next two nights in Queenstown you will stay at the exclusive Eichardt's Private Hotel in a luxury suite overlooking the shimmering waters of Lake Wakatipu - there's no better view to wake up to.

Accommodation: Queenstown - 2 nights
 

See Fiordland National Park in style on a scenic helicopter flight over the lakes, rivers, mountains, and forests of this unique World Heritage Area.

As your helicopter takes off, keep your camera close by there are scenic wonders everywhere, crying out to be captured from above. You'll discover isolated valleys of ancient forests and pristine trout-fishing rivers, as well as mountains carved by the ice over thousands of years. The stunning Mirror Lakes, glacier-formed Eglinton Valley, and iconic Mitre Peak are among the show-stopping highlights of this vast and remote wilderness.

Landing in Milford, you'll enjoy a short nature walk and find the perfect spot for that iconic Mitre Peak photo. After your stroll, an exhilarating flight past spectacular mountains and blue-green ice falls transports you to Mt Tutoko glacier in the heart of Fiordland National Park.

Return to Queenstown tonight, wondering if it was all a beautiful dream.
 

Accessible only by helicopter, your next destination is a luxury alpine lodge in a picturesque glacial valley, far away from the cares of everyday life.

Minaret Station

At the heart of the Southern Alps, Minaret Station will treat you to a level of comfort and style never before available so deep in the New Zealand's mountain areas. Settle down in your luxuriously appointed chalet suite amid alpine meadows as pretty as a picture.

Nestled along the shores of Lake Wanaka, the 50,000-acre property also functions as a working high country farm with 10,000 deer, 7,000 sheep, and 1,000 cattle. For a genuine New Zealand backcountry experience, Minaret Station is unbeatable.

Accommodation: Remote Mt Aspiring National Park - 2 nights
 

Minaret Station’s many Heli-Adventure experiences allow guests to discover otherwise inaccessible wilderness areas of the Southern Alps and Mt Aspiring National Park.

Backcountry Adventures at Minaret Station
The wide range of adventures on offer from Minaret Station ensures that there is something special for everyone from families to honeymooners. Discerning hunters and anglers are spoiled for trophy opportunities — though you may struggle to keep your eyes on the target instead of the dramatic mountain scenery.
The Station's pilots can take you heli-hiking, heli-skiing, heli-picnics, heli mountain-biking... you name it, they can probably helicopter you to it!

Some suggested activities and outings.
Scenic Flights/Picnics
Guided Fishing
Guided Heli Skiing Guided Mountain Biking
Fiordland Experience
Guided Heli Hiking Guided Hunting
Guided Farm Tour
Jet Boating

A helicopter flight takes you back to Queenstown this morning to collect your rental car. Be transported to the South Island's wild West Coast today on one of New Zealand's most breathtaking scenic drives.

The scenery is impressive all the way, and once over the Haast Pass, it changes dramatically. There's beauty around every bend, with woodland walks and dramatic waterfalls along the way — perfect for picnic stops. After the ancient forests and mountain passes give way to coastal views, you'll soon be nearing glacier country.

Franz Josef: Te Waonui Forest Retreat
Nestled in a rainforest clearing, Franz Josef Glacier Village lies at the heart of the Westland National Park. Welcome to one of the most diverse and beautiful areas of New Zealand. Te Waonui Forest Retreat will be your home for the next two nights. Encircled by lush bush and rainforest, it's a perfect introduction to the untamed West Coast region.

Approximate Distance: 284 km | 176 miles Total Driving Time: 3 hours 28 mins

Accommodation: Franz Josef - 2 nights
 

Experience some of the most stunning ‘ice architecture’ of any Glacier in the world with a helicopter tour over Franz Josef.

Scenic Glacier Helicopter Flight

Franz Josef Glacier is a mighty river of solid white, a unique relic of the last ice age. Following a spectacular collapse of the terminal face in 2012, the Glacier is now only accessible by helicopter.

Your flight today covers it all: Glacial icefalls, crevasses and neves, and views from ocean to the Alps. Crossing the rugged spine of the Southern Alps, you'll circle the magnificent peak of our tallest mountain, Aoraki / Mt Cook, as well as the very beautiful Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. Get your camera ready for a spectacular snow landing — with the rotors off, the silence is all-encompassing.
 

Driving up the West Coast with ocean views to your left and mountains to your right, you are in for a treat as you wind your way to Arthur's Pass National Park.

Arthur's Pass National Park
If you look up the word serenity in the dictionary, by rights Arthur's Pass should be the definition. This major national park in the centre of the South Island straddles the backbone of the Southern Alps. Famous for its rugged high mountains, steep gorges and wide braided rivers, the park boasts a variety of walking tracks leading to mountain peaks and beautiful waterfalls. Filled with native birds such as the Kiwi, Morepork, Kea and New Zealand Falcon, the park comes alive with the sound of birdcall.

Arthur's Pass Wilderness Lodge
Thanks to its award-winning design, Arthur's Pass Wilderness Lodge blends seamlessly into the mountain landscape around it. This luxurious retreat is a paradise for nature lovers: it's situated on a wildlife reserve and owned by a family who have been at the forefront of nature protection for over twenty years. Expect spectacular mountain views from every window, stylish accommodation, delicious food, and Kiwi hospitality that will warm your heart.

Approximate Distance: 233 km | 144 miles Total Driving Time: 2 hours 48 mins

Accommodation: Arthur's Pass National Park - 2 nights

Maximise your wilderness lodge experience today with one of the guided nature adventures offered by the knowledgeable naturalists and farmers on staff.

Wilderness Lodge Guided Nature Adventures

The Wilderness Lodge's exciting programme of guided adventure offers something for everyone, young and old.

Options include:

• High Country Sheep Farm Discovery: Watch sheepdogs work, hand-feed tame sheep and learn about shearing and merino wool with a real sheep farmer.
• McKay Moa Forest Adventure: A relaxed walk to explore the Wilderness Lodge reserves. Learn about bizarre 'moa shrubs' and enjoy panoramic mountain views.
• Birds & Special Plants of the Beech Forest: Explore the mossy beech forest surrounding the lodge. Search for orchids, watch birdlife and see manuka (tea tree) recolonise the grasslands.
• Stars of the Southern Sky: The lack of light pollution here makes for brilliantly clear skies. Discover the Southern Hemisphere's constellations, satellites, and planets with an experienced guide.
   

Today you'll traverse Arthur's Pass and journey through North Canterbury's beautiful rural scenery to the town of Kaikoura, a marine wonderland where towering mountains meet the sea.

The road up to the Kaikoura Coast is another classic New Zealand scenic drive. The route hugs the shoreline with the ocean on one side and the Kaikoura ranges on the other. You can look forward to impressive coastal views, roaring surf, and rocky bays dotted with New Zealand Fur Seals sunbathing on rocks.

Kaikoura: Hapuku Tree Houses
Your Kaikoura accommodation is simply unique: you'll be nesting in the treetops 10 metres above the canopy of a native Kanuka grove. Your luxury treehouse "bedroom in the sky" features giant windows boasting views of Kaikoura's dramatic mountains and the Pacific Ocean beyond.

Approximate Distance: 305 km | 189 miles Total Driving Time: 3 hours 48 mins

Accommodation: Kaikoura - 2 nights
 

Kaikoura's most famous residents are the many whales and dolphins who feast on the abundant seafood in its waters. Sperm whales visit year-round, while the mighty humpback is a regular visitor in June and July.

Kaikoura Whale Watching Scenic Flight
Today you'll soar above the ocean for a birds-eye view of Kaikoura's whales from the air. Enjoy spotting them as they breach the surface, spouting seawater from their blowholes before diving in search of tasty squid.

End your unforgettable day with freshly caught crayfish at one of Kaikoura's cozy eateries, enjoying one of the glorious sunsets this region is famous for.

Follow the grapevines to reach Blenheim right in the heart of the world-renowned Marlborough wine growing district.

Not surprisingly, it’s a great base from which to tour the local vineyards and enjoy the artisanal food offerings. Don’t miss tasting a glass of the local Sauvignon Blanc – the vineyards surrounding Blenheim produce some of the world’s best. If you grab a bottle for later, the designated driver won't have to miss out!

One of Blenheim's popular attractions is the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre. There are some very rare planes on display and even some genuine personal memorabilia from the famous Red Baron - the top scoring fighter pilot from World War One.

Lake Timara Lodge
A "Slice of Paradise" featuring a romantic lake, an English-style park with sweeping lawns, a historic arboreum and a perfume garden, Lake Timara Lodge is a charming heritage estate. This haven of peace and tranquility is the ideal place to unwind.

Approximate Distance: 127 km | 78 miles Total Driving Time: 1 hour 35 min

Accommodation: Blenheim - 2 nights

A day trip to the pretty seaport township of Havelock puts you at the gateway to the Pelorus and Kenepuru Sounds - the Greenshell Mussel Capital of the World.

Marlborough Mussel and Wine Cruise
Enjoy a waterfront lunch before departing on your fantastic Mussel and Wine Cruise heading into the tranquil Marlborough Sounds. Your Skipper will tell fascinating stories of the ancient Maori tribes of the region and the history of the pioneering families who settled over 6 generations ago.

Green-lipped mussels (known to Māori as kutai) are indigenous to New Zealand, and cannot be found anywhere else. Their flesh is distinctive from other mussel species, and sampling them is a real New Zealand must-do. You'll visit a Greenshell Mussel farm to taste this local treat — delicious freshly steamed mussels, matched perfectly to a glass of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc.

Approximate Distance: 85 km | 53 miles Total Driving Time: 1 hour 10 mins

Farewelling the South Island you'll take a short drive to the harbour town of Picton, where the Interislander ferry will whisk you away to Wellington in the North Island.

Welcome to New Zealand's "coolest little capital"!
Wellington is compact, cultured and oozing with charm, so explore at your leisure before setting off to your first North Island luxury lodge in the Wairapapa wine region.

With boutique shopping galore, and gorgeous parks and gardens on your doorstep, you will find much to inspire and entertain you in Wellington.

Wharekauhau Country Estate
A scenic 1.5-hour drive takes you to beautiful Palliser Bay in the Wairapapa wine region. Perched high on a hilltop, the Grand Lodge at Wharekauhau Country Estate will be your luxury base for the next two nights. Settle down for the night in your exquisite cottage suite amid 3000 acres of private forests, pastures, and lakes overlooking the rugged Rimutaka ranges and the endless blue of the Pacific Ocean. Welcome to paradise.
 

Suggested outings before heading to your lodge.

Approximate Distance: 101 km | 63 miles  Total Driving Time: 1 hour 20 mins

Accommodation: Featherston - 2 Nights

When you can bear to leave your luxurious cottage this morning, Wharekauhau Country Estate will spoil you for choice.

Explore a working sheep station
This working farm estate, dotted with sheep and cattle, is a delight to roam. See sheep shearers in action, watch the working dogs rounding up their flocks, and embrace farm life to the fullest.

Hike and bike to your heart's content
Hiking and Mountain Biking are on offer, and with so many ancient forests and rugged coastlines to discover, you could pack a picnic lunch and make a day of it.

Sample the region's finest Pinot Noirs
If you'd prefer to explore the wider area, a trip into the Burgundy-esque Martinborough wine region is a must. Home to 35 boutique wineries and a plethora of artisan produce, this is a foodie's dream come true.

Visit a seal colony
For wildlife lovers, a day trip to Cape Palliser rewards you with the largest Brown Fur Seal colony in the Southern Hemisphere. There are magnificent views of the unspoiled landscape from the lighthouse built into the cliff face.

Head home to a sumptuous meal at the Grand Lodge, where chefs take advantage of the farm's own orchards, herbs and vegetable gardens to create culinary delights that are guaranteed to please.

Some suggested activities and outings available on request.

Heading north, today you'll discover the delights of the Hawkes Bay region, famed for its sensational coastal scenery, fine wines and the beautifully preserved Art Deco city of Napier.

Hawke's Bay
Boasting a relaxed country lifestyle, Hawke's Bay is the perfect setting to unwind and forget any everyday cares. You'll be staying in the Hastings District, a sensational place to enjoy the Great New Zealand Outdoors with outstanding beaches, cycling trails, and walking tracks, as well as iconic natural landmarks such as Cape Kidnappers and Te Mata Peak.

Greenhill Lodge
Expect a warm welcome when you arrive at the elegant, gracious Greenhill Lodge historic mansion today. This gorgeous Victorian country estate has played host to English royalty, and with only five rooms, this Hawkes Bay hilltop country retreat offers an intimate experience with guaranteed tranquility.

Approximate Distance: 265 km | 164 miles Total Driving Time: 3 hours 15 mins

Accommodation: Hawkes Bay - 2 nights

The most authentic way to experience Hawke's Bay is to get to know the colourful characters who live here. Today's private, tailored day tour introduces you people and places that are unforgettable.

Private Hawke's Bay Day Tour

This customised Hawke's Bay tour allows you to discover the Bay your way. Here are some of the highlights you may wish to experience:

• Stroll amongst the celebrated art deco buildings of Napier.
• Gain a spiritual insight into Maori culture at a beautiful rural coastal settlement, where you'll meet and talk with a Maori elder.
• Visit creative food producers on their land: taste, touch and smell the tantalising products they make from the deep soils.
• Taste beautifully crafted local wines at prestigious Hawke's Bay wineries, meeting the personalities involved in making the wines.
• Be welcomed by fascinating local artists in their studios and view their paintings, sculptures or ceramics.

The tour will be customised to your tastes and will take you on a special journey to find the true essence of this beautiful region.
 

Rotorua and Great Lake Taupo

The heartland of New Zealand’s North Island, Rotorua is host to some of the world’s most incredible geothermal forces as it is situated right on the Pacific Ring of Fire. Volcanic activity is a key part of the city’s past and present.
On your journey today, take time for a picnic lunch on the shores of Great Lake Taupo or explore a geothermal park between Taupo and Rotorua.

Treetops Estate Rotorua

Hidden away in 2,500 acres of private native forest and pristine wilderness you'll discover an elegant, rustic lodge waiting to welcome you.
The luxurious Treetops Lodge lies within a secluded forest and game reserve boasting seven trout streams, four lakes and over 70 km of hiking, biking and riding trails. Why not cosy up in front of a warm fire in the Great Room this evening and plan your adventures?

Approximate Distance: 224 kms | 139 miles Total Driving Time: 2 hours 47 mins

Accommodation: Rotorua - 2 nights
 

Discover unexpected sights and magnificent scenery on a full day Lake Tarawera scenic cruise and guided waterfall walk.

Lake Tarawera Private Cruise

The Rotorua region boasts thirteen impressive lakes, but Lake Tarawera is considered by many to be the best of them all. The idyllic surroundings are a haven for nature lovers, bird-watchers and those who wish to relax in the peace and seclusion of Tarawera's secluded beaches.

Tarawera means "Burnt Spear," and the lake was home to many small Maori villages and mission settlements until the eruption of the Mt Tarawera volcano in 1886. You will hear about the lake's fascinating history from your knowledgeable captain during the cruise.
 

Natural Hotpools 

Landing at a hot water beach, soak your cares away in a natural jacuzzi on the lake's edge: it's the perfect spot for honeymooners. You'll return home via the stunning Tarawera Trail - an easy stroll through beautiful New Zealand native bush with gorgeous views of the lake and Mt Tarawera.
 

Swap the volcanic Central Plateau for the unspoiled beaches of the North as you fly to the spectacular Bay of Islands.

Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands is a stunning 144-island Maritime Park, brimming with secluded bays and an abundance of marine life. Being somewhat sheltered, the area is ideal for yachting, fishing, kayaking, and diving. Rolling countryside, tidal estuaries, mangroves, and long silvery beaches abound.
Rich in beauty and natural history, it's also an area of considerable historical significance: Maori and European settlers signed the Treaty of Waitangi here, joining them together as one nation. It's often referred to as the birthplace of New Zealand.

Kauri Cliffs: Your Bay of Islands Hideaway

The approach to Kauri Cliffs takes you through several kilometres of farmland before you arrive at the cliffs above Matauri Bay: it's like arriving at the edge of the world. At Kauri Cliffs Lodge, perched high above the ocean, you can expect knockout views of the Pacific Ocean, Cape Brett, and the offshore Cavalli Islands during your 3-night stay. Unpack, unwind, and pinch yourself if you need to: this dream location must be seen to be believed.

Accommodation: Bay of Islands - 3 nights.

Fly over magnificent scenery to the very top of New Zealand today, experiencing the natural history of this very special region.

Bay of Islands Scenic Flight

Your 45-minute scenic flight to Cape Reinga showcases Northlands’ most spectacular harbours and bays, passing across stunning Coopers Beach, Doubtless Bay, and the famous Ninety Mile Beach. After you land, an air-conditioned minibus will spirit you away on a 2.5-hour tour of New Zealand's Far North.

You'll visit the Cape Reinga lighthouse and see where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean, their waves crashing together. Stroll along the beach at Tapotupotu Bay before heading to the giant sand dunes of Te Paki quicksand stream: "sand surfing" down the dunes is exhilarating fun for all ages!

Your return flight allows a peek at some breathtaking coastal areas only visible from the air or by sea. The dazzling white silica sands of remote Parengarenga Harbour and Great Exhibition Bay are lapped by crystal clear water — you'll want to have your camera ready to capture every postcard-perfect moment.

Take to the water and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Bay of Islands on a classic single mast yacht.

Sailing in the Bay of Islands

On this full day sailing trip, you will get a real feel for why the Bay of Islands is so beloved by New Zealanders and visitors alike. Relax and enjoy the sound of the sea lapping against the hull as you sail the sparkling waters of one of the country's richest sailing areas.

With around 150 islands and bays to choose from, you'll spend your day swimming, kayaking, snorkeling and strolling the Bay's secluded white sandy beaches. For lunch, you might opt to drop anchor in the historic seaside town of Russell, or perhaps visit the well-known “Hole in the Rock”.

This is your day so feel free to sit back and relax if you wish, or for a real thrill, you can take part in the sailing of this beautiful vessel.
 

"Haere rā" Goodbye! and Bon Voyage!

Whether you wish to drive to Auckland or return by flight to meet an international connection, we can arrange either. We know you will enjoy this Luxury Lodges Tour and our promise to you is to make your travels through New Zealand as hassle-free and hospitable as possible — ensuring that today you leave with a memory card full of photos, and huge smiles on your faces when recalling your time in New Zealand! Have a great homeward journey, farewell and hope to see you again soon in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

Approximate Distance: 237 km | 147 miles Total Driving Time: 3 hours 12 mins