YOUR DAY
Guided: Upon arrival at Auckland Airport, a shuttle driver will be waiting for you as you clear customs. This driver will take you to your accommodation in the city. The day and night are free to spend at your leisure and your guide will meet you tomorrow morning.
Self Drive: Upon arrival at Auckland Airport you will collect your rental vehicle within the airport terminal. Make your way to your inner city accommodation where the day and night are free to spend at your leisure and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Tonight you will enjoy an Authentic New Zealand dining experience like no other, at Ahi.
Rangihoua Suite or Similar
The 65 sqm Rangihoua Suite on the top floor of The Hotel Britomart looks north to the Waitematā Harbour and Auckland's North Shore, and east over Takutai Square, the sunny public space at the heart of the Britomart neighbourhood. And let's not forget the wraparound views of the city skyline from the beautifully planted 35 sqm terrace, with its outdoor fireplace to warm up beside on cooler nights.
Your stay includes a cooked breakfast and complimentary mini bar with non alcoholic beverages.
He Korero Kai ō Aotearoa - A New Zealand Food Story
4 snacks + 4 courses (vegeterian courses available)
The te reo Māori word ‘Ahi’ means ‘Fire’. The cooking connection is obvious but, for us, Ahi also speaks of the fire in our bellies to deliver the best New Zealand kai in the most authentic way.
The entire Ahi Whānau is united by its love of Aotearoa, its food and people, and sharing the warm feelings of Manaaki and Whanaungatanga.
YOUR DAY
This morning you will take a short walk to the Auckland ferry terminal to ferry out to Waiheke Island. Here a knowledgeable local tour guide will take you on a journey through the island’s rich winemaking history, unique charm, and hidden gems. As part of this experience, you’ll visit three of the finest Waiheke vineyards, each offering a distinctive ambiance and complimented by exceptional wines. You'll also enjoy a delicious lunch carefully crafted to complement your wine-tasting experience. Every detail is designed to ensure your tour is both enjoyable and memorable, leaving you with cherished memories of this special adventure on Waiheke Island.
What’s Provided
Travel in an eco-friendly e-van, accompanied by an expert local tour guide.
Savor up to 12 exquisite wine tastings at top wineries.
Enjoy a delightful Waiheke Island lunch.
Rangihoua Suite or Similar
Including return ferries from Auckland
YOUR DAY
250km, 3.5 hours driving
Today you farewell the ‘City of Sails’ and head south to Rotorua; a hot spot for Māori culture and geothermal activity.
En route you will visit Hobbiton and The Shire’s Rest, the only remaining film set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogies. You'll also enjoy a buffet style feast in the festive marquee next to the Green Dragon!
Arrive in Rotorua in the late afternoon and perhaps explore Kuirau Park mud pool reserve and view the stunning government gardens and lakefront.
Executive Suite or Similar
Solitaire Lodge Rotorua, one of New Zealand’s premiere luxury lodges, enjoys breathtaking views over Lake Tarawera, with lush natural bush and volcanic landscape backdrop. The subtle design brings the outdoors in, inviting you to unwind and soak up the peace and quiet of this tranquil setting. Minutes from this iconic North Island resort you will discover a multitude of activities. The lodge is also the perfect place to simply relax, indulge and rejuvenate, left in the able hands of your warm, friendly New Zealand hosts.
Your stay includes complimentary mini bar with extensive selection of alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages, pre dinner drinks & canapés, five course evening meal, full country breakfast and light lunch and the use of Lodge dinghies and kayaks.
Dinner also included with platinum option
YOUR DAY
This morning you will enjoy an intimate Māori cultural tour with Pepeha Journeys. Enter the Māori world under the guidance of Ngāti Whakaue ancestors with a karakia or prayer, visit the location of Rotorua’s very own love story of Hinemoa and Tūtānekai, learn about 3 native shrubs Kawakawa, Karamu and Whau and their medicinal properties, learn about the connection Māori have with nature and experience first-hand Māori customs and traditions with a warm welcome inside a meeting house on spiritual tribal lands.
This afternoon is free for leisure activities. Options include: Rotorua Gondola and Luge, zorbing, a trip to The Buried Village of Te Wairoa, nature walks to local waterfalls, a hike up Mt Ngongotaha, or a walk through Government Gardens or Kuirau Geothermal Park. (all activities listed are optional).
This evening you will enjoy an authentic cultural experience at Te Pā Tū (formerly Tamaki Māori Village).
In the summertime, Te Pā Tū offers their Summer Harvest Celebration experience, "Tū Te Rā." Tū Te Rā is a summer celebration, aligned with the maramataka – the Māori lunar calendar. This is a time when the sun expresses optimal energy, the days are longer, and light nourishes the natural world. Tū Te Rā celebrates the abundant harvest of this season, and explores concepts, rituals, and stories of ancient Māori warfare and peace in a feast of culture and cuisine.
In the winter, Te Pā Tū offers their Winter Matariki Celebration experience, "Tū Te Ihi." Tū Te Ihi references the energy and passion stirred by the Matariki cluster and the promise they herald. Tū Te Ihi celebrates a moment in the earth’s cycle when the stars of Matariki (Pleiades) draw attention. Matariki conjures ancestors as we recall their legacy, and reflect on the year that has been.
YOUR DAY
This morning you will enjoy an intimate Māori cultural tour with Pepeha Journeys. Enter the Māori world under the guidance of Ngāti Whakaue ancestors with a karakia or prayer, visit the location of Rotorua’s very own love story of Hinemoa and Tūtānekai, learn about 3 native shrubs Kawakawa, Karamu and Whau and their medicinal properties, learn about the connection Māori have with nature and experience first-hand Māori customs and traditions with a warm welcome inside a meeting house on spiritual tribal lands.
Following this experience, the rest of your day is free to spend as you wish in Rotorua. Options include: A trip to The Buried Village of Te Wairoa to explore the stories and discover treasures left behind from the 1886 eruption of Mount Tarawera, a walk through the world class canopy walk at the Whakarewrewa forest, or a dip in the famous Polynesian Spa, situated on the shores of Lake Rotorua.
Of course you could instead relax and enjoy the tranquil surrounds of your beautiful secluded accommodation on Lake Tarawera. Perhaps take a kayak out on the lake or take a 15-minute private launch excursion to the natural hot springs of Lake Tarawera where you can enjoy soaking in the thermal waters rising gently through the lake.
Executive Suite or Similar
Dinner is included at Solitaire Lodge, so this event clashes with this experience and with the platinum option we have given more free time to enjoy the spectacular accommodation and experiences available on site.
Dinner also included with platinum option
YOUR DAY
321km, 4 hours driving + 1 hour 20 minute flight
Your first stop for the day is Waitomo - New Zealand’s most extensive underground caving network.
Here you will enjoy a long and gentle boat ride beneath a galaxy of glowworms, avoiding big crowds by joining a small group tour, in private caves. Spellbound are close by Waitomo Caves, and a little off the beaten track, visiting a rugged and scenic limestone studded farm.
Following this you continue to Auckland, where you depart the North Island and fly South to New Zealand’s mainland, arriving in Christchurch in the evening.
Suite or Similar
Set in pastoral surroundings against the fluted cone of an ancient volcano, Otahuna Lodge is a beguiling Victorian mansion that offers its guests a unique sense of wonder and discovery. New Zealand's largest private historic residence has been revitalised with luxury accommodation, glorious gardens and sophisticated cuisine. In its patrician sense of calm, the grace and charm of its grounds and its refined yet personable service, Otahuna combines the romance of the past with the cosmopolitan pleasures of the present - the very best of both worlds.
Your stay includes pre-dinner drinks with canapés, a 4-course set-menu dinner complemented by matched wine pairings with each course, continental and/or full cooked breakfast and full use of Lodge equipment.
Dinner also included with platinum option
YOUR DAY
380km, 5 hours driving
Today you will drive through the mighty Southern Alps to Arthurs Pass National Park. Keep a look out for the Bealey River as well as the reflective waters of Lake Pearson and Lake Lyndon. Our favourite nature walk in this national park features a stunning 150 metre waterfall and spectacular views of the mountains as you peek through native beech forest. Be sure to keep a look out overhead for the Kea (New Zealand’s cheeky native alpine parrot)!
Driving further, you will reach the West Coast and the Tasman coastline. Detour inland where you can visit the stunning Hokitika Gorge to marvel at its beautiful bright blue waters and surrounding native forest.
Continue further south through the rainforest to the town of Franz Josef glacier, nestled at the base of the towering alps and surrounded by dense native bush.
Enjoy a 5 course degustation at your hotel tonight.
This evening you will enjoy a soak at Waiho Hot Tubs. Relax and unwind in the soothing comfort of fresh, warm water and aromatic wood smoke. Enjoy your own private tub, nestled in lush rainforest.
Includes 5 course degustation
YOUR DAY
250km, 4 hours driving
This morning you will have the opportunity to enjoy a short scenic helicopter flight with snow landing on Franz Josef Glacier, or a 3 hour guided heli-hike on the ice of glacier itself! (Optional - Not Included in Quote).
One of the most dramatic journeys in the country is what you can experience on your drive over the Haast Pass through to Wānaka. En route you will visit Lake Matheson, otherwise known as ‘Mirror Lakes’ where on a clear day it is possible to see the reflection of New Zealand’s highest mountain Aoraki/Mt Cook (3754m/12,316ft). The walking possibilities are endless today around Haast and Haast Pass and you can choose from several nature walks, some of which feature spectacular waterfalls and deep blue coloured pools where it is possible to see trout swimming. One of our favourite spots at The Road Trip is Ship Creek, an isolated beach featuring native totara trees hugging rugged coastline.
Tonight you stay in Wānaka, one of New Zealand’s most popular holiday spots.
If you choose the platinum option you will be flown to one of New Zealand’s ultimate luxury properties by helicopter where you will enjoy a spectacular night and top class cuisine in a remote alpine location.
King Chalet
There are few, if any, places quite like this in the world. Private, luxury lodge accommodation set in a remote glacial valley surrounded by towering peaks, accessible only by helicopter.
Comfortable in every sense, with warm hospitality and world class cuisine, Minaret Station Alpine Lodge is truly an extraordinary location to escape the “real world”.
With just four chalets, Minaret Station Alpine Lodge provides the opportunity to enjoy some of life’s most precious elements; time, fresh air and open space, whilst creating life-long memories with friends and family.
Your stay includes private helicopter transfers from Wānaka Airport to Minaret Station, nightly pre-dinner drinks and canapés, nightly multi-course gourmet dinner, with paired wine, daily full breakfast and daily lunch, either at the Mountain Kitchen or packed picnic lunch.
Dinner also included with platinum option
YOUR DAY
Today is a chance to explore the beautiful lakeside town of Wanaka. Options include a walk up one of our favourite look out spots featuring 360 degree views of Lake Wānaka, Mount Aspiring National Park and the Clutha River, a visit to Stuart Landsborough’s Puzzling World, kayaking on the lake or even fishing on the lake for some brown or rainbow trout. Perhaps take on the majestic Rob Roy Glacier hike or venture Roy's Peak if you're feeling especially fit!
If you choose a guided tour, today will be a legally required day off for your driver/guide.
Minaret Station's guided experiences are amongst some of the finest travel experiences offered anywhere in the world.
Unique, authentic, private and off the beaten path. Minaret Station offer a range of day experiences tailored to all interests, fitness levels and budget. The Road Trip's recommendation is their Fiordland & West Coast Highlights tour. Explore the grandeur of northern Fiordland and the West Coast by helicopter, including unique and uninhabited environments.
You not only fly through Milford Sound, but take in so much more including past spectacular glaciers, the forests and mountains to the ice carved cliffs in the fiord, and across to the West Coast to view wildlife in their natural habitat. This is a special experience that leaves guests with a remarkable memory of New Zealand and our pristine, otherwise inaccessible locations. Minaret Station’s experienced guides are there to explain the landscapes and history of the locations, and tailor the day to including hiking locations and awe-inspiring photographic opportunities. Featuring a gourmet picnic lunch along the way, bask in the magic of a spectacular location.
If you choose a guided tour, today will be a legally required day off for your driver/guide.
Talk to us about a memorable guided experience with Minaret Station - there are options for heli skiing, mountain biking, hiking, hunting and fishing and several options for scenic flights and exploration of remote wilderness areas.
King Chalet
There are few, if any, places quite like this in the world. Private, luxury lodge accommodation set in a remote glacial valley surrounded by towering peaks, accessible only by helicopter.
Comfortable in every sense, with warm hospitality and world class cuisine, Minaret Station Alpine Lodge is truly an extraordinary location to escape the “real world”.
With just four chalets, Minaret Station Alpine Lodge provides the opportunity to enjoy some of life’s most precious elements; time, fresh air and open space, whilst creating life-long memories with friends and family.
Your stay includes private helicopter transfers from Wānaka Airport to Minaret Station, nightly pre-dinner drinks and canapés, nightly multi-course gourmet dinner, with paired wine, daily full breakfast and daily lunch, either at the Mountain Kitchen or packed picnic lunch.
Dinner also included with platinum option
YOUR DAY
260km, 3 hours driving
This morning your South Island tour takes you to the beautiful town of Arrowtown via The Crown Range, New Zealand’s highest highway. Arrowtown was an important location in the gold rush of Central Otago in the 1860s and is now a historic town with a very special vibe. Perhaps browse the preserved Chinese gold mining village or wander the boutique shops the town has on offer.
Following this, you'll enjoy lunch at one of The Road Trip's favourite winery restaurants, Mora.
After lunch you will drive a further 2 hours to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park.
Deluxe Lodge Room or Similar
Fiordland Lodge is located in a place where scale is nearly unfathomable, rainfall is measured in meters, and the scenery showcases exceptional beauty. This intimate family-owned lodge offers world-renowned customised wilderness, wildlife, hiking, fly fishing, and sightseeing adventures in this treasured part of the world, where mountains and valleys battle for space and wildlife reigns supreme.
Your stay includes pre dinner canapés and a locally sourced 3 course degustation each night, as well as a private hot tub experience and full cooked breakfast each morning
Mora offers hand-crafted cuisine that is made from scratch. They use New Zealand’s finest sustainable ingredients, sourced in and around the four coasts of the South Island. At Mora, honest, comforting and social food meets the beauty of Mora Central Otago wines.
Dinner also included with platinum option
YOUR DAY
240km, 4 hours driving
Be prepared for one of the jewels of the New Zealand landscape! The drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound is one of the most spectacular in the world and certainly a highlight on any New Zealand tour. En route you will see spectacular valleys, breath taking mountains and hopefully spot the cheeky Kea (New Zealand’s mountain parrot).
Late morning you will experience all that the fjords have to offer with a 1 hour 45 minute boat cruise featuring pristine waterfalls and towering mountains plunging into the Tasman Sea.
Keep a look out for dolphins, seals and the Fiordland crested Penguin. On your trip back to Te Anau there is the opportunity to enjoy several short walks in the Fiordland National Park.
Deluxe Lodge Room or Similar
Dinner also included with platinum option
YOUR DAY
40 minutes driving
This morning you will drive 20 minutes to Manapouri Harbour for your day cruise through Doubtful Sound. This spectacular journey starts with a cruise to the other side of Lake Manapouri, followed by a bus trip over a pass to the fjords followed by a magical afternoon cruising through the towering peaks and stunning waterfalls of Doubtful Sound. The trip also passes by the famous Manapouri power station.
In the afternoon, return to Te Anau and enjoy a further night on the beautiful shores of the lake.
Deluxe Lodge Room or Similar
Dinner also included with platinum option
YOUR DAY
175km, 2 hours driving
This morning you will head to Queenstown, ‘New Zealand’s adventure capital of the world’. Skirting your way around Lake Wakatipu makes for some stunning photography and you will be amazed by the Remarkables Mountain Range, one of the most famous back drops for Lord of the Rings.
The afternoon is free to spend as you wish in Queenstown, and there is plenty to see and do! Perhaps enjoy a walk around the botanic gardens on the lake, enjoy a drop of Central Otago pinot noir at a nearby winery, or sample some fresh local cuisine on offer on the lakefront.
Retreat Suite
Nestled on the shores of Lake Hayes amidst acres of sprawling gardens and vines, with panoramic views over the sparkling lake and majestic mountain peaks, Stoneridge Estate combines sublime scenery with five-star facilities and warm, personalised service. Soak up the peace and tranquility of this spectacular part of the world and experience authentic New Zealand hospitality.
Your stay includes accommodation in a Retreat Suite as well as a private hot tub experience and full cooked breakfast each morning.
YOUR DAY
Your day begins with a spectacular scenic drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy along the lake edge, with photo stops and entertaining stories from your local guide about the legends of Lake Whakatipu. Once you arrive in Glenorchy, you will have the chance to explore the lakefront including the iconic red boat shed, before continuing up toward Diamond Lake and Paradise Valley. Here you will take in the incredible snow-capped views over the Dart and Rees Rivers while your guide sets up a uniquely Kiwi morning tea to enjoy, and optional costumes to recreate your favourite movie scene photo.
You will be dropped back in Glenorchy township to enjoy free time, with the opportunity to visit a local cafe for lunch or take a short walk.
This afternoon, Dart River Wilderness Jet will host you for a spectacular two-hour jetboat experience into the heart of the world-renowned Mt Aspiring National Park and Te Wāhipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Area. Owned and operated by Ngai Tahu Tourism, Dart River Adventures, and their highly experienced drivers will showcase the area’s fascinating history, the Greenstone trail, and Māori legends, covering 90km of crystal clear river. Throughout the experience, your jetboat driver will stop the boat, allowing you to disembark within the National Park and learn about its unique flora and fauna.
Tonight you will dine at the delightful Toast & Oak.
Retreat Suite
Can be made private
Situated on one of the original streets of Queenstown, one’s senses are transported to the taste and smells of Europe’s finest as you walk past and see a glimpse of the warm glow above the street, the home of Toast & Oak.
Taking inspiration from natures surrounding palette; warm rich hues, layers of abundant textures both rough and smooth, with subtle hints of light and shadow, the space within both echoes these natural familiarities and folds together the traditional hints of Europe’s most intimate, energetic and inviting winebars that hum and glisten throughout the night.
Experience Toast & Oak's exclusive 9 course tasting menu with a front row seat to see the Chefs in action. This is a 3 to 4 hour dining experience.
Today you will transfer to Queenstown Airport for your further travel arrangements. We trust you've had a wonderful time here in New Zealand!
Onward flight is not included.