Peaceful and hospitable, New Zealand seems blessedly detached from the planet’s woes, and its two narrow islands contain coastal and mountain scenery that is nothing short of breathtaking.
This 15-day itinerary encompasses many of New Zealand’s most memorable highlights. Start in the spectacular Bay of Islands archipelago, which you explore by private yacht (and by helicopter or horseback if you like). Move south to Taupo for a scenic private flight around an active volcano, fly-fishing in an unspoiled backcountry stream and perhaps some whitewater rafting. Tour the world-class wineries near Hawke’s Bay by private car or bike, kayak in sheltered Pigeon Bay and, in Queenstown, land on a glacier in your helicopter before flying to a scenic (and ordinarily inaccessible) spot for a wilderness picnic.
If you’ve never been to New Zealand, this introduction is hard to top. And if you’re lucky enough to have visited before, these 15 days include numerous activity choices, ensuring that you won't have to repeat anything from a previous trip. Unless, of course, you want to.
Our itineraries are for your inspiration. Please contact a travel advisor to customize this itinerary to fit your needs.
On arrival in the Bay of Islands you will be met and transferred to Eagles Nest, a luxury property comprised of seven villas on a 75-acre estate with spectacular views. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to relax and settle in.
The next day, enjoy a luxury boat cruise through the Bay of Islands. Your private sailboat is fast and nimble enough to explore the bay with ease, yet has the comfort, safety and ambience for an exceptional day enjoying the breeze and the view from the covered deck. Enjoy beach combing and lunch served in a sheltered cove, then return to Eagles Nest.
Room Type: Rahimoana 4-bedroom Villa
Inclusions: Breakfast and one personal-chef-prepared meal of choice daily (up to three
courses)
Today is at your leisure in the Bay of Islands. Optional activities include:
Transfer by private vehicle to Kerikeri Airport for your flight to Taupo. At Taupo Airport you will be met by a lodge representative and transferred to Huka Lodge.
The remainder of the day is at your leisure. Options at the
lodge include tennis and pétanque, a heated outdoor swimming pool and a spa pool. Also, it's only a short stroll to Huka Falls, where 58,000 gallons of water tumble over the cliff face every second.
Today starts with a helicopter safari to the volcanoes Mount Tarawera and White Island. The trip will include spectacular aerial views of Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Reserve, an area with a plethora of hot springs noted for their colorful appearance, and the Waimangu Volcanic Valley, filled with beautiful thermal lakes.
Fly over the summit of Mount Tarawera, learning about its history and getting spectacular views of the craters and domes formed by its 1886 eruption. Then head for White Island to land on and walk around its active crater floor, an incredible experience and a highlight of this excursion.
This afternoon is at your leisure in Taupo. Optional activities include:
Meet a local guide from Seasonz Travel for a half-day fly-fishing excursion at a remote backcountry stream where you will cast to rainbow and brown trout in crystal-clear pools.
This afternoon is at your leisure in Taupo. Optional activities include:
Transfer by private vehicle to The Farm at Cape Kidnappers at Hawke’s Bay.
Take a walk in search of the elusive New Zealand kiwi with an expert guide and locate the unique, nocturnal birds. The outing offers the chance to see and learn more about one of New Zealand’s most endangered and rare birds.
Tour the hotel's 6,000-acre working sheep and cattle farm with a guide. You'll get views south toward Ocean Beach and Bare Island, visit the old creek bed and travel to historic Rangaika Beach.
For lunch, travel to Terrôir Restaurant at Craggy Range Winery. It has a French country theme and specializes in rotisserie and wood-fired oven cooking, and affords views of Te Mata Peak and vineyards.
After lunch take a guided private winery tour by bicycle, riding about 10 miles along a flat, easy, scenic trail toward the Cape Coast, visiting Black Barn Vineyards, Elephant Hill and Clearview Estate Winery.
After the ride you will be transferred back to The Farm.
Transfer by private vehicle to Napier Airport for a flight to Christchurch, where you'll be met at the airport and transferred by private vehicle to Annandale, a coastal farm and four luxury villas.
This afternoon you'll go sea kayaking with a guide through the remote and sheltered Pigeon Bay inlet, which affords stunning coastal scenery. The activity is tailored to all skill levels and is a great activity for the whole family!
Room Type: Scrubby Bay 4-bedroom Villa
Inclusions: Breakfast and one personal-chef-prepared meal of choice daily (up to three courses)
A local Seasonz Travel guide will accompany you on a day trip to Akaroa that will include a scenic harbor cruise. The town, once a French whaling station, is rich with French, Maori and English culture. Explore the village's colonial architecture, galleries and craft stores, and have lunch at a local restaurant.
Board a boat for a two-hour cruise around the peninsula, viewing sea caves, high cliffs and volcanic rock formations. Akaroa's harbor is host to amazing birdlife and sea mammals, including the world’s smallest and rarest dolphins, the Hector's dolphin.
Return to Christchurch Airport for a flight to Queenstown, then transfer by private vehicle to Eichardt’s Private Hotel. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.
We recommend you explore the center of Queenstown, with its
diversity of shops and activities. Take a gondola to Bob’s
Peak for an amazing view. Other options include:
The next morning, return to Queenstown Airport for a Milford Sound helicopter excursion through the Southern Alps. This breathtaking flight will pass secluded alpine lakes, lush rain forest, brush-fringed valleys and rugged mountain peaks. Land and stroll on a deserted beach to absorb the natural beauty of Fiordland. Fly along the fjord until you reach the rugged west coast, which offers the opportunity to view seal colonies. Experience a glacier landing and touch down at a secret wilderness site for a picnic lunch.
Meet up with your local Seasonz Travel guide for a full day of sightseeing in the Queenstown region. Activities will include traversing narrow canyons in a jet boat from Shotover Jet and a visit to the historic gold mining village of Arrowtown.
Lunch will be at Amisfield Bistro, in an
iconic stone building with stunning views of snow-covered mountains and Lake Hayes.
Next you can watch — or participate in — a bungee jump at the bridge where the thrill-seeking activity went commercial. It's 141 feet into the canyon below. After that, explore more of the Southern Lakes region, with your guide assisting with recommendations.
Today is at your leisure in Queenstown. Options include:
On your last day, transfer by private vehicle to Queenstown Airport for your flight home.
Contact a travel advisor to book your custom itinerary. Fill out the form or call (630) 734-4610.
Andrew Harper members have access to full travel-planning services through Andrew Harper Travel.
1 (800) 375-4685
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