New Zealand Highlights
WHEN TO GO
OCT - APR
PRICE FROM*
USD $45,000 PP
IDEAL LENGTH
19 DAYS
This luxurious, cross-country journey captures the best of New Zealand's North and South Islands, from volcanic heartlands to alpine extremes. It's fast-paced but deeply immersive, blending world-class lodges, dramatic natural beauty, and curated local encounters. One day you’ll be sipping pinot among Otago’s vines, the next heli-hiking through Fiordland or stargazing with wine in hand. Highlights include the iconic Huka Lodge, an unforgettable whale-watching and cooking experience in Kaikōura, heli-hiking Tasman glacier and a high-country finale at the exclusive Minaret Station. If you want a taste of everything – and you want it done beautifully – this is it.
*excluding international flights - based on two adults sharing
THE HIGHLIGHTS
ACCOMMODATION
WHERE YOU'LL STAY
NEW ZEALAND HIGHLIGHTS
DAY 1-7: Waiheke Island, Taupō, Hawke’s Bay
Days 1-2: Waiheke Island
Be met airside in Auckland and transferred by helicopter to Waiheke. Settle into The Boatshed overlooking the bay, and ease into island life with coastal views and local wine.
Days 3-5: Taupo
Travel through farmland and volcanic landscapes through Rotorua, pausing at the magnificent Huka Falls and adorable Kiwi Hatchery. Spend a day soaring over Tongariro's volcanoes and land for a private cruise across Lake Taupo. Days at leisure include bike trails, unwinding at the spa or visits to the local hot springs.
Days 6-7: Hawke’s Bay
Drive east through rugged ranges and rural heartland en route to the coast. Stop in Napier for a glimpse of Art Deco charm before arriving at Cape Kidnappers and checking into the breathtaking Rosewood lodge. During your stay, encounter rare wildlife in a predator-free sanctuary and tour dramatic coastal cliffs by Can-Am. Expect gannets, sea views, and inspiring conservation work.
NEW ZEALAND HIGHLIGHTS
DAY 8-13: Kaikōura, Flockhill Lodge, Mt Cook
Days 8-9: Kaikōura
Fly from Napier to Christchurch, and journey to Kaikoura via Kaiapoi for rich Maoria Heritage and vibrant, aromatic wines in the Waipara Wine Region. Take to the skies to view migrating whales from above, then return for a hands-on cooking experience with Chef Fiona at Hapuku Kitchen. Forage, cook and feast on local produce in her rustic farmhouse kitchen.
Days 10-11: Flockhill Lodge
Travel through rugged coastal stretches and wine country en route to Flockhill, a luxury high-country lodge set on a vast sheep station. Spend days immersed in country life - go horse riding, try kayaking or e-biking, tour the farm with sheepdogs or join a cocktail masterclass. Gourmet feasts, lake dips and stargazing complete the experience.
Days 12-13: Mt Cook
Take the spectacular route through Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki with optional photo stops and a scenic picnic. Arrive at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat and unwind with a private dinner overlooking Aoraki / Mount Cook. Spend a day on a spectacular heli-hike as you soar above the Southern Alps before landing on pristine ice for a guided exploration of shimmering caves. As evening falls, savour a degustation dinner or unwind with a glass of wine beneath starlit sky.
NEW ZEALAND HIGHLIGHTS
DAY 14-19: Queenstown, MINARET STATION
Days 14-16: Queenstown,
Wind through the sweeping curves of Lindis Pass to Cromwell’s vineyards and the heritage charm of Arrowtown, stopping en route for an unforgettable private rafting adventure on the Hāwea River. Paddle through gentle rapids, plunge into crystal swimming holes, and soak up mountain views before a chef-prepared gourmet lunch in a Nordic tipi by the river’s edge. Pause for a serene lakeside walk at Lake Hayes before arriving at your boutique Queenstown hotel. Spend your time sampling world-renowned pinot noir in Central Otago and take off on a thrilling once in a lifetime heli journey over Milford Sound.
Days 17-18: Minaret Station
Lift off from Queenstown and fly into a remote alpine valley accessible only by helicopter. Arrive at Minaret Station, where your luxury chalet and hot tub await. Wake to mountain silence and spend the day heli-hiking, horseback riding, fly fishing or mountain biking. Or simply relax on your deck with a local wine and views that stretch for miles.
Day 19: Depart New Zealand
Helicopter back to Queenstown and connect with your international flight home. Haere rā and safe travels!
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