Uncover the Heart of New Zealand

Day 1 to 2 Accommodation

Auckland

Arrive in Auckland and enjoy a private transfer to your hotel. Spend the evening exploring the waterfront, sampling fresh seafood or relaxing after your journey.

The following day, take a curated Waiheke Island food and wine experience. Taste award winning olive oil, learn about sustainable local produce and enjoy premium wine among the island’s celebrated vineyards. Walk through native forest with a Māori guide, learning about foraging traditions and edible plants. The day concludes with a memorable forest-cooked feast, prepared using Māori culinary techniques and paired with outstanding wines.

Day 3 to 4 Accommodation

Rotorua

Collect your hire car this morning and drive south to Rotorua, known for geothermal activity, crater lakes and Māori heritage.

After checking in, unwind at Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa, a luxurious wellness experience rooted in Māori healing traditions. Natural geothermal waters, soothing therapies and serene design make this an ideal way to ease into the rhythm of your journey.

The next evening, immerse yourself in an unforgettable cultural experience at Te Pā Tū. Enjoy powerful storytelling, kapa haka, seasonal cuisine and a celebration of Māori hospitality within a beautifully crafted forest setting.

Day 5 to 6 Accommodation

Hawke's Bay

Travel east to one of New Zealand’s finest food and wine regions. Settle into the dramatic clifftop setting of Cape Kidnappers and spend the afternoon exploring the property or relaxing with a signature spa treatment.

The following day is entirely yours. The lodge offers a range of optional activities such as exploring the property’s extensive walking tracks, meeting the local gannet colony, enjoying the heated infinity pool, joining a guided farm tour or simply indulging in the tranquillity of its wide open landscape. The estate is known for its sweeping views, world-class service and peaceful atmosphere.

Rosewood Cape Kidnappers

Type: Boutique Hotel
Summary: One of only five Relais & Châteaux New Zealand properties
Feature: Panoramic views of spectacular scenery
Rooms: 22 suites & 1 four-bedroom Owner's Cottage
Location: Hawke's Bay, New Zealand’s North Island, New Zealand
Star rating: NZ Luxury Lodge

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MEAL BASIS

Dinner & breakfast

Day 7 Accommodation

Wellington

Drive south to the capital, known for its harbour views, creative arts scene and excellent dining. Explore the waterfront, visit Te Papa Museum or wander through boutique neighbourhoods at your own pace. Tomorrow you will cross to the South Island.

Day 8 to 9 Accommodation

Marlborough Sounds

Travel across the Cook Strait by ferry and continue by water taxi deep into the Marlborough Sounds. Your secluded resort sits among forested hillsides and calm sheltered coves.

Bay of Many Coves provides a selection of optional activities: paddleboarding and kayaking in sheltered bays, guided or self guided walks along native forest trails, wildlife spotting from the jetty, scenic boat excursions, luxurious spa treatments and exceptional dining with local Marlborough produce. Whether you prefer adventure or quiet relaxation, the setting is ideal.

Day 10 Accommodation

Kaikoura

Travel south along one of New Zealand’s most scenic coastal routes to Kaikoura. This region is renowned for marine life and dramatic seascapes framed by the Seaward Kaikoura Range.

In the afternoon, join a whale watching tour with guides who are deeply connected to the region. Kaikoura is one of the best places in the world to see sperm whales year round. You may also encounter migrating humpbacks, dolphins and Southern Right whales.

Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses

Type: Luxury Lodge
Summary: A unique eco-hideaway amid acres of working deer farm
Feature: Enjoy close proximity to the eco-marine town of Kaikoura
Rooms: 4 suites, 5 treehouses and a standalone three-bedroom house
Location: Canterbury, New Zealand's South Island, New Zealand
Star rating: NZ Luxury Lodge

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MEAL BASIS

Dinner & breakfast

Day 11 Accommodation

Christchurch

Continue to Christchurch and enjoy a restful evening at Otahuna Lodge. Wander through its historic grounds or relax in one of its elegant lounges before tomorrow’s onward travel.

Otahuna Lodge

Type: Luxury Lodge
Summary: Fabulous views surround this award-winning retreat
Feature: Superb dining with many ingredients locally grown
Rooms: 5 suites & 2 master suites
Location: Christchurch, New Zealand's South Island, New Zealand
Star rating: NZ Luxury Lodge

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MEAL BASIS

Dinner & breakfast

Day 12 Accommodation

Franz Josef

Begin the day aboard the legendary TranzAlpine as you cross the Canterbury Plains and climb through the Southern Alps. The journey offers sweeping views of patchwork farmland, deep river gorges and snow capped peaks. On arrival in Greymouth, continue by road to Franz Josef and check in to your forest retreat surrounded by native bush.

Te Waonui Forest Retreat

Type: Luxury Hotel
Summary: A luxury eco-retreat with stunning rainforest surrounds
Feature: Enjoy fine dining amongst the treetops
Rooms: 95 deluxe guest rooms
Location: New Zealand's South Island, New Zealand
Star rating: 5 Star

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MEAL BASIS

Dinner & breakfast

Day 13 to 15 Accommodation

Queenstown

Arrive in Queenstown, a lively alpine town known for its dramatic landscapes and excellent dining. Spend your first day exploring the lakefront, enjoying local walks or relaxing at your boutique hotel.

The following day, embark on an extraordinary heli–cruise to Milford Sound. Fly over rugged peaks, glacial valleys and alpine lakes before landing in the fiord. Cruise beneath towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls, watching for dolphins, seals and birdlife. Return to Queenstown by helicopter, with scenic landings when conditions allow.

Day 16 Accommodation

Central Otago

Travel into the heart of Central Otago for an extraordinary stay in the Haurapa PurePod. This fully off-grid, glass-walled retreat is perched on a ridgeline above Cromwell, offering complete privacy and 360-degree views of the rugged Pisa Range.

The walk in follows a historic gold‑sluicing trail, leading to a minimalist yet fully equipped cabin with king-sized bed, kitchenette with BBQ, flushing toilet, hot shower, and underfloor heating. With no distractions, guests can stargaze through the glass ceiling, watch the sunrise over the mountains, and experience true immersion in nature. An unmatched combination of comfort, serenity, and spectacular scenery.

Day 17 to 19 Accommodation

Chrsitchurch

Return to Christchurch and settle into your elegant city hotel. During your stay, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour that introduces you to the city’s fascinating blend of heritage and modern architecture. Visit the Botanic Gardens, serene Avon River precinct, cultural districts and neighbourhoods shaped by the city’s remarkable resilience.

You may also wish to explore on your own. The arts scene is vibrant, with galleries, street murals and modern installations throughout the city. Nearby attractions such as the Banks Peninsula or the coastal village of Akaroa offer rewarding day excursions.