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 a dining experience like no other, high above Auckland at The Sugar Club, in Auckland's Skytower.
Luxury Room or Similar
Immerse yourself in a relaxed stay in this carefully restored landmark villa where indulgent treats like cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in the library, breakfast in bed and quiet relaxation are all part of the experience. Beautifully designed superior and luxury rooms cater to your every whim, while our discreet hosts can curate your perfect Ponsonby experience.
Your stay includes tray-service continental or cooked breakfast, including fresh-pressed juice and barista coffee.
There is no better way to re-define your dining experience with fine food, creative cocktails and a well curated wine list in a relaxed and chic atmosphere. With a Chef's menu that champions seasonality, combining the best in local sustainably sourced produce with the boldest flavours from around the world. The kitchen focuses on flavours and texture, whilst the dining room and bar are an experiential destination with breath-taking views of Auckland City and the Hauraki Gulf.
The Sugar Club, sits majestically 53 floors above Auckland City and is the jewel in the crown at the top of the Sky Tower.
YOUR DAY
This morning you will ferry out to Waiheke Island to enjoy a guided tour of the Island, stopping at a number of boutique wineries for wine tastings. You will finish your tour at Mudbrick Winery where you will enjoy a delicious lunch with incredible views out over the Hauraki Gulf towards Auckland City (lunch is additional cost). Return to Auckland in the late afternoon, and perhaps enjoy dinner at one of the wonderful waterfront restaurants that line the Viaduct Harbour.
Three of our favourite wineries:
Casita Miro/Miro Vineyard: Miro Vineyard is in the Onetangi wine-growing region and comprises a 4.2 hectare vineyard and the outstanding Tapas restaurant called Casita Miro. Views from the vineyard are spectacular, looking out over the vines, the village and the sea.
Kennedy Point: Kennedy Point Vineyard is Waiheke Island’s only certified organic vineyard, set amongst 300-year-old pohutukawa trees overlooking Waiheke Island’s Kennedy Bay. At our cellar door you can complement your wine tasting experience with delicious local oysters, cheeses and smoked salmon.
Stonyridge Vineyard: Stonyridge Vineyard is the ongoing dream of owner Stephen White. It was in 1981 after a 3-year adventure in Europe that Stephen came to love the culture and lifestyle of the Mediterranean and the great red wines of France, Tuscany and California. After extensive climatic research Stonyridge was discovered as the ideal north facing site to ripen and produce a world class Bordeaux style red wine.
Luxury Room or Similar
Includes 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 explore the untouched, sacred land of the Ngāti Pikiao tribe, in an intimate, private three-hour 4WD experience. Guided by a local and highly knowledgeable Māori guide, you’ll explore a stunning marae, landscapes and never-before-seen views that look over Rotorua’s lake district. En route, you’ll learn the myths and legends of the Māori people, their rich history and fascinating ways of life.
This afternoon is free for leisure activities. Options include: Rotorua Gondola and Luge, zorbing, a trip to The Buried Village of Te Wairoa, or a visit to the spectacular Redwoods Treewalk! (all activities listed are optional – extra cost).
This evening you will enjoy a twilight walk through the Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest. The Redwoods Treewalk in this forest features 34 exquisite lanterns. Floating between 9-20 metres above the forest floor, this award-winning, eco-tourism walk is 700 metres long, spans across 28 suspension bridges and 27 platforms and takes about 40 minutes to complete.
Executive Suite or Similar
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 take a guided tour through the spectacular Caves and see the impressive glow-worms that light up the cave roof (included activity). 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.
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.
Enjoy a five course degustation at your hotel tonight.
YOUR DAY
250km, 4 hours driving
This morning you will fly over both the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, soaring first over the townships and then following the ice of the glaciers high up into the upper reaches. Land in the snow at the head of one of the glaciers and survey the path the glacier has carved below you. Franz Josef Glacier is one of only three glaciers in the world to be surrounded by rainforest!
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.
30 minutes
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, a visit to the Warbirds and Classic cars Museum 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.
YOUR DAY
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 Trips'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
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 improtant 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 will enjoy a trust the chef degustation lunch at Amisfield Bistro & Cellar Door, overlooking the stunning Lake Hayes. Following this 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 metres, 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
Dinner also included with platinum option
YOUR DAY
40 minutes driving
Today take the 20 minute drive to Manapouri Harbour (or be transported by coach) for your day cruise through Doubtful Sound (or we can arrange bus transfers). 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. The boat returns to Manapouri at 4:45. 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.
Lodge Room or Similar
Watch the sun rise and sparkle on the astonishingly blue waters of Lake Hayes as you make yourself at home in Stoneridge Estate's elegant individually-designed suites. Signature features such as soaring timber beams, native Otago schist and hand-forged iron create the perfect compliment to the dramatic setting. From the custom-crafted furnishings to the indulgent linens and fluffy pillows, every detail has been carefully considered to ensure an exceptional experience.
Your stay includes complimentary cooked and/or continental breakfast each morning, served with barista made coffee, use of an outdoor hot tub & lap pool, complimentary wine & local cheeseboard each afternoon & complimentary minibar.
Lake View Deluxe Room or Similar
Spectacularly located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Rosewood Matakauri offers luxury lodge accommodation in Queenstown and looks out to a mesmerising panorama of the big three; The Remarkables, Cecil and Walter Peak.
Just seven minutes from bustling Queenstown, this is an alpine, lakeside retreat, nestled in one of the world’s most strikingly beautiful landscapes. With clean lines in glass, stone and timber, Matakauri’s own take on luxury is understated and welcoming; embracing guests and championing the mountainscape. Voted as one of the top three lodges in New Zealand and Australia, Matakauri is your ultimate sanctuary after a day spent atop mountains, exploring vast fjords, chasing thrills and simply discovering this unique region.
Your stay includes pre-dinner drinks, full cooked breakfast, lunch and an à la carte dinner, celebrating local seasonal produce with clean, fresh flavours.
Dinner also included with platinum option
YOUR DAY
This morning is free to explore Queenstown at leisure and take part in some of the fantastic activities that this ‘Adventure Capital of the World’ has to offer. Options for the adventurous include: Skydiving, Bungy Jumping, Jet Boating, Canyon Swings, White Water Rafting, Flyboarding and Paragliding. If you feel like taking a more relaxed approach to the day, a cruise on the TSS Earnslaw 100 year old steam ship or a walk through Queenstown’s Botanic Gardens are not to be missed.
Early afternoon you will visit the award winning Amisfield Bistro & Cellar Door where you will enjoy a ‘trust the chef’ degustation lunch overlooking the glorious Lake Hayes.
This evening you will indulge in a private bathing experience at Onsen Hot Pools Queenstown. Your experience begins with a 45-minute soak in a cedar lined hot tub while you enjoy a complimentary drink and snack and soak up the incredible views of the quintessential southern landscape. Once relaxed, calm and warm, you will then be treated to your choice of face or body treatments in Onsen Queenstown's peaceful day spa room with 1 hour spa packages available.
Lodge Room or Similar
Lake View Deluxe Room or Similar
Amisfield's focus is on creating dishes that represent the work of a small group of fisherman, hunters, gatherers and farmers. Amisfield brings their products together to epitomise the tastes of Central Otago and in doing so, highlights the relationship between the raw produce and the finished product. These dishes cumulate in a dining experience that helps define NZ cuisine to the world. Amisfield believe they are charged with a sensitivity and commitment to our environment and they choose their partners in their menu for the quality they offer as well as their commitment to sustainability and ethical farming practices.
Dinner also included with platinum option
YOUR DAY
Today you will transfer to Queenstown Airport for your further travel arrangements. We trust you've had a wonderful time here in New Zealand!
Flight is not included.
Welcome to Australia. You will be met at the airport and transferred into the city by shuttle. From here the day is free to explore Melbourne and discover some of the incredible cafes, bars, restaurants and landmarks at your leisure. We provide a detailed interactive travel app that will ensure that the best spots are able to be navigated by the push of a button.
Panoramic Guest Room or Similar
Rising 80 stories above the city, The Ritz Carlton Melbourne offers panoramic views of the Dandenong Ranges, Victoria Harbour and Port Phillip Bay. Celebrating Australia's ancient stories and vibrant cultures, Melbourne's newest leading luxury hotel features the awarded Atria restaurant, The Ritz Carlton Club and immersive spa and wellness facilities.
Your stay includes a seasonal breakfast featuring local and select international produce, set to a backdrop of panoramic views.
YOUR DAY
Today is a full day to explore Melbourne and experience the ins and outs of this vibrant metropolis. You will be taken on a fantastic walking tour of the inner city and discover the area by foot. Sites include Federation Square, Melbourne’s Street Art, Chinatown and Princess Theatre as well as discovering some of the city’s best cafes and hidden bars. You could also take a visit to Eureka Tower for fantastic panoramic views of the city centre and its surrounds. This afternoon we suggest taking a walk along the spectacular riverfront and absorbing the lively atmosphere. Perhaps enjoy one of the incredible bars, cafes, restaurants or retail therapy outlets on offer. Your app will be programmed with some great suggestions.
Panoramic Guest Room or Similar
YOUR DAY
Discover one of the world’s most famous scenic coastal drives. The Great Ocean Road is a true favourite of The Private Tour Guide and guaranteed to be one of the highlights of your trip. Explore spectacular beaches, tranquil and charming coastal towns, an abundance of Australian wildlife, a vibrant surf culture, secret rainforests and not to mention- the famous 12 Apostles.
With so many stops and wonderful stories to share along the way, you are guaranteed to have a sensational day.
Your Great Ocean Road private tour includes the following highlights:
The Surf Coast - stunning beaches and tranquil villages.
Wild Kangaroos in their natural habitat.
Famous Lighthouse.
The Memorial Arch.
Lorne - Victoria’s most affluent coastal resort town.
Wild Koalas- guaranteed sightings!
Optional Rainforest Walk - Stunning cool temperate rainforest ( time permitting )
Ship Wreck Coast
The 12 Apostles
Loch Ard Gorge.
The Razorback
Island Archway
Optional visit to Gibson Steps (time permitting)
Panoramic Guest Room or Similar
YOUR DAY
Today you will experience the magic of Phillip Island, one of Victoria's meccas for wildlife and coastal scenery.
Be amazed by one of Australia’s most adorable wildlife spectacles—the Philip Island Penguin Parade. Before watching hundreds of little blue penguins returning to their burrows for the night, spot some Aussie animals and get close to koalas on this all-day nature tour from Melbourne.
On the way to Philip Island, visit the Koala Conservations Reserve where you have the chance for an up-close encounter with koalas and other Australian animals. Then, spend some time enjoying the natural beauty of Philip Island. Watch experienced surfers riding the majestic waves at Cape Woolamai Surf Beach. Stroll along The Nobbies boardwalk to see seabird colonies, a thundering sea cave, and Australia’s largest fur seal colony at Seal Rocks.
As the sun starts to sink below the horizon, the Philip Island’s resident little blue penguins, also known as fairy penguins, come ashore to return to their burrows for the night. The Penguin Parade waddles right by your viewing platform for an enchanting experience with the world’s smallest species of penguin. Return to Melbourne in the evening.
Panoramic Guest Room or Similar
YOUR DAY
1 hour and 30 minute flight
This afternoon after further exploring Melbourne, you are transferred by private shuttle to the Airport. Here you board a flight and go North to Australia’s largest city, Sydney. Arrive in Sydney late afternoon where you will again be collected by shuttle and taken into the central city. This evening you will be taken on an exclusive Harbour Cruise where you will dine on board with spectacular views of the cityscape and Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Opera View or Similar
Located on the very edge of Sydney Harbour with front-row seats to the world-famous Opera House, our luxurious harbourside residence is unmistakably Australian.
As green and gold ferries bustle back and forth across the harbour, sit back on your private balcony and watch Sydney come to life. All this within arm’s reach of the charming cobblestone laneways of Sydney’s historic Rocks precinct.
Your stay includes cooked breakfast daily in Park Hyatt's signature restaurant right on Sydney Harbour. Enjoy thoughtful Australian dining inspired by regional and coastal ingredients.
YOUR DAY
Today you will explore Sydney on a privately guided tour. Discover the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, the beaches, the cafes and the people. Learn about the city’s rich history and culture from your expert guide. Discover Sydney’s hidden delights further afield such as the Seaforth and Arabanoo lookouts and the Northern Beaches. Highlights include: the city’s oldest precinct, The Rocks, the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, The Gap at Watson’s Bay, Bondi Beach and King’s Cross and finishing up in Manly.
Opera View or Similar
YOUR DAY
(approx. 4 hours driving total)
The Blue Mountains Tour includes a visit to Featherdale Wildlife Park where you can meet a Koala and feed a Kangaroo and get up close with many other native animals. You continue on to the World Heritage listed Blue Mountains and visit spectacular lookouts, waterfalls and mountain villages. Your guide can take you on some short bushwalks so you get to experience first-hand the beauty of this natural wonderland or you can choose to visit Scenic World and take the three rides.Inclusions: Featherdale Wildlife Park, National Park Entry fees, Scenic World
Opera View or Similar
YOUR DAY
Experience the best of Sydney's wildlife on a single day with a visit to a thrilling whale watching cruise. Set sail on a 3-hour whale watching cruise and witness the awe-inspiring beauty of humpback whales as they migrate along the coast. With expert guides and comfortable amenities, this day trip promises an unforgettable adventure for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Tonight, you will enjoy the ultimate Bridge climb with a twilight climb of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. (We think doing this at twilight is the best, seeing the sunset across the city!)
Opera View or Similar
YOUR DAY
Today you will be transferred to Sydney Airport for your onward travel arrangements. We trust that you enjoyed this incredible journey.