14 Day New Zealand Luxury Itinerary

Indulge in the very best with our luxury New Zealand travel packages. This 14 Day New Zealand Luxury Itinerary takes you from the boutique Waiheke Island wine region to the dramatic landscapes of Milford Sound, with superb sightseeing and lodges along the way.

Our luxury New Zealand travel packages are designed to serve as a starting point as you begin planning your New Zealand vacation. However, we work with each client to craft a bespoke itinerary. Every traveler is different, and we want to ensure your travel plans suit your preferences and interests.

This 14 day New Zealand itinerary showcases some of the best luxury experiences and accommodation on offer throughout the country.

Our recommended New Zealand itinerary for 14 days is as follows:

• Day 1 – Arrive Auckland & Waiheke Island
• Day 2 – Waiheke Island & Ananda Gourmet Food and Wine Tour
• Day 3 – Rotorua
• Day 4 – Rotorua & Mount Tarawera by Helicopter & Wai Ariki Hot Springs + Spas
• Day 5 – Nelson & Abel Tasman
• Day 6 – Abel Tasman National Park & Exclusive Sailing Tour of The Bay of Islands
• Day 7 – Abel Tasman National Park
• Day 8 – Kaikoura
• Day 9 – Kaikoura & Whale Flight
• Day 10 – Christchurch
• Day 11 – Lake Tekapo & Mackenzie Basin & Private Night Sky Experience
• Day 12 – Mount Cook Ultimate Helicopter Flight
• Day 13 – Queenstown
• Day 14 – Queenstown & Milford Sound Experience
• Day 15 – Depart Queenstown

Read on for the full details of our recommended 14 day itinerary for New Zealand travel packages.

14 Day New Zealand Luxury Itinerary: New Zealand Travel Packages

Day 1 Auckland + Waiheke Island

Your exclusive New Zealand experience begins in Auckland, the gateway to the North Island. Get a glimpse of the city before being whisked away to Waiheke Island, a haven of beaches, picturesque vineyards and olive groves just 30 minutes from downtown Auckland by boat.

The Boatshed Hotel will be your haven for two nights. This chic luxury hotel sits just above the sun-drenched bay and white sandy beaches of Oneroa. Look forward to a pre-organised massage on arrival if you so wish, then enjoy fine dining at the onsite restaurant exclusive to in-house hotel guests. Your stay includes 4 course table d hote dinners and beautiful gourmet breakfasts.

Stay 2 nights on Waiheke Island.

Accommodation: The Boatshed Hotel Waiheke Island

Day 2 Waiheke Island Wine Tour

Wake up to glistening sea views and gentle bird song. If you are feeling energised, take a morning stroll to start your day, exploring trails which meander along cliff tops, down to beaches and through cool enclaves of native forest.

Spend the day tasting the best of this boutique region on a gourmet wine and food tour with Ananda Tours, the ideal New Zealand holiday experience. Visit award-winning vineyards; sample local specialties such as olive oil, wild honey, and oysters straight from Te Matuku Bay; and indulge in a platter lunch at one of the island’s top vineyard restaurants.

Please enquire for private tour options.

Day 3 Rotorua

Driving time Auckland to Rotorua 3 hours

Rotorua is known for crystal-clear streams and magical forests, bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers and natural hot springs. The region is also steeped in history, and is one of the best destinations to experience our fascinating Maori culture.

Your luxury lodge, Peppers on the Point, is a former 1930s mansion which has retained its distinct charm and design throughout. Surrounded by the sparkling waters of Lake Rotorua, Peppers on the Point is an intimate luxury retreat featuring spectacular views to the historic Mokoia Island.

This stunning retreat offers the perfect base for experiencing New Zealand’s rich culture. Or you can simply relax and enjoy the tranquility of this stunning location from the comfort of the inviting entertainment rooms with open fireplaces. Without leaving the property, you can indulge in a heavenly massage at the onsite spa, try fly fishing from the private beach, enjoy water sports and tennis or even spend your day boating. Peppers on the Point’s dining room is also renowned for serving fabulous New Zealand cuisine accompanied by the finest local and international wines. It is an experience not to be missed.

Stay 2 nights in Rotorua.

Accommodation: Peppers on the Point Rotorua

Day 4 Rotorua + Mount Tarawera Helicopter Flight & Wai Ariki Hot Springs + Spas

Experience the highlights and serene lakes around Rotorua on an exclusive Volcanic Air flight. Fly to Mt Tarawera by helicopter, stand on the crater’s edge of this sacred mountain with sweeping panoramic views and experience a thrilling walk along the crater’s edge.

Next, step into Wai Ariki, a place where Ngāti Whakaue culture, healing traditions, and warm hospitality converge. Nestled by the captivating Lake Rotorua, its name, ‘Chiefly Waters,’ reflects the majesty it holds. Owned and curated by the local iwi, you’ll discover the Wai Whakaora, a path to restoration, and the exclusive sanctuary, Āhuru Mōwai, both deeply rooted in Māori values. Experience a world of uniqueness that transcends borders and touches hearts. Wai Ariki awaits to embrace you with its magic.

Enjoy a 60 minute massage and 60 minute bathing, induce a calm balance between your mauri (vital energy) and your wairua (spirit). Your choice of signature oil blends, infused with rongoā rākau (plant remedies) further enhance this restorative massage.

Option to go back to your luxury resort and enjoy the facilities on offer or to further explore Rotorua.

Day 5 Nelson + Abel Tasman

Flight time Rotorua to Nelson 1 hour 15 minutes 

Leave the North Island behind today as you take a flight south to Nelson. Venture into Abel Tasman National Park, which offers secluded golden-sand beaches, lush native forests, and crystal-clear bays. This is the perfect way to unwind as you become acquainted with New Zealand.

Driving time Nelson Airport to Falcon Brae Villa 1 hour

Falcon Brae Villa is located near Nelson and Abel Tasman in the South Island. It provides the option of an exclusive-use luxurious Villa with access to three individual suites and an additional bunk bedroom. Falcon Brae is perfect for couples multi- generational families or those seeking total privacy.

The villa is perched on a hilltop, with spectacular 360-degree views over the surrounding mountains and the Motueka River below. The villa is 720 m2 in size, located on 350 acres of property surrounded on two sides by rivers, including a private forest and spectacular native bush walks.

Stay 3 nights at Falcon Brae Villa, Motueka.

Accommodation: Falcon Brae Villa

Day 6 Abel Tasman National Park

Jump onboard your private catamaran today and cruise into the Abel Tasman National Park. The itinerary is customised to suit you; relax on the hot golden sand, enjoy short walks or simply remain onboard your vessel.

Your very knowledgeable and experienced skipper/ guide has increased access to more remote areas within the National Park (where other commercial operators are not authorised to go). You can expect to see many secluded coves, golden sand beaches, pristine waters and native wildlife such as NZ fur seals. Enjoy complimentary tea, coffee and fruit juice throughout the day, with a freshly packed picnic lunch.

Day 7 Abel Tasman National Park

Today is yours to unwind, indulge in the facilities and activities on offer at Falcon Brae Villa, or explore Abel Tasman National Park further.

Other bespoke activities that you may wish to sample in Abel Tasman National Park or Kahurangi National Park include boat trips, sea kayaking, fly fishing, cycling, private helicopter tours, and horseback riding.

Day 8 Kaikoura

Driving time Abel Tasman to Kaikoura – 4.5 hours 

Take time to explore the top of the South Island as you journey south today. Picton is a worthwhile detour if your passion is for native wildlife – the Marlborough Sounds play host to a number of bird sanctuary islands offering unparalleled opportunities to encounter rare native species in their natural habitat.

As you continue through the verdant Marlborough wine region, you will find countless opportunities to stop and sample the unsurpassable vintages of new Zealand’s premier wine region. Before long, the rolling hills will give way to the rugged Kaikoura coast. Tucked between the Seaward Kaikoura Range and the Pacific Ocean, Kaikoura abounds in natural beauty, marine mammal viewing opportunities, and exquisite fresh seafood.

Your accommodation is at the unforgettable Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses, located on a picturesque deer farm just north of Kaikoura. The lodge provides luxurious rooms and an intimate indoor/outdoor setting perfect for relaxation. Your stay includes gourmet three-course dinners and full breakfasts.

Stay 2 nights in Kaikoura.

Accommodation: Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses

Day 9 Kaikoura + Whale Flight

Lift high above Kaikoura today and enjoy an unforgettable encounter with the majestic whales that call Kaikoura home. Your scenic flight offers a unique perspective on the diverse marine life around the Kaikoura peninsula, and offers stunning views over the Seaward Kaikoura range.

Following your scenic whale watching flight, unwind and indulge in the fresh seafood on offer at Hapuku Lodge or explore the nearby trails and coastline.

Day 10 Christchurch

Driving time Kaikoura to Christchurch – 3 hours 

Your next destination is Christchurch, a vibrant city influenced by English heritage and recent seismic events. Explore the city if you wish, or venture to Akaroa to visit wineries and the Barry’s Bay Cheesery.

In the evening, venture to your exclusive accommodation at Otahuna Lodge. 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. Your stay includes a five-course degustation diner with wine pairings, pre-dinner drinks with canapés, and breakfast.

Stay 1 night in Christchurch.

Accommodation: Otahuna Lodge

Day 11 Lake Tekapo + Mackenzie Basin

Driving time Christchurch to Lakestone Lodge – 4 hours 

The Mackenzie Basin is home to some of New Zealand’s most sublime scenery. From towering peaks (including New Zealand’s tallest, Aoraki/Mt Cook) to brilliant turquoise lakes and shimmering glaciers, the Southern Alps are an awe-inspiring destination. Your first glimpse of the glacial lakes is at Lake Tekapo, a picturesque settlement surrounded by mountains.

Continuing south, you will pass by the breathtaking southern shores of Lake Pukaki before arriving at Lakestone Lodge, a purpose built, six bedroom, off grid, luxury lodge positioned in a spectacular location on the shores of Lake Pukaki. Your stay includes a three-course dinner and cooked breakfast.

In the evening, enjoy a unique stargazing experience that will treat you to the best of the Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve. Your guide will prepare a perfectly positioned hammock so you are looking directly at the wonders above and makes you snug with a warm woollen blanket and complimentary mulled wine or hot drink. Your guide will point out all the highlights of the southern sky with a high powered laser pointer and explain some Maori legends about the sky as well as other interesting theories.

Stay 2 nights in Lake Pukaki.

Accommodation: Lakestone Lodge

Day 12 Mackenzie Basin + Mount Cook Picnic in Paradise

This is it! – if you have dreamt of truly experiencing the ultimate helicopter tour of the Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, then this signature helicopter flight will tick every box.

Circle the summit of New Zealand’s highest mountain – Aoraki/Mt Cook. Experience a snow landing on the Haupapa/Tasman Glacier and discover motu huka (icebergs) on the Tasman Terminal Lake. View blue ice, hanging glaciers and the West Coast glaciers of Fox & Franz Josef and gaze across to both the East and West coastlines of New Zealand’s South Island. Enjoy coastal views of New Zealand’s South Island. This glacier helicopter tour is the ultimate way to experience and immerse yourself in the stunning scenery of the Mt Cook maunga (mountains).

This glacier helicopter tour is the ultimate way to experience and immerse yourself in the stunning scenery of the Mt Cook maunga (mountains). You will experience a snow landing high up on the Haupapa/Tasman Glacier and stand amongst the “natural silence” of this very special place. Feel as free as a bird as you gaze across the horizon and catch views of the incredible West Coast and wild Tasman Sea. Your last stop is the flight over the carved icebergs of the Tasman Terminal Lake on your return flight. In 50 minutes, you will have experienced the Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park at its finest. Life really doesn’t get any better than this!

Once your helicopter lands back in Mount Cook Village, you have the opportunity to stroll along one of the walking trails leaving from the village, or else return to your retreat to unwind.

Day 13 Queenstown

Driving time Lakestone Lodge to Queenstown – 3 hours

Today your journey takes you to Queenstown, the ultimate luxury destination on New Zealand’s South Island. From world-class luxury lodges to indulgent spa experiences, superb cuisine and exclusive tours, Queenstown is a delight to experience.

The journey to Queenstown deserves to be savoured as well – stop and take in the views from the top of Lindis Pass, sample fresh fruit in Cromwell, and perhaps stop for a picturesque vineyard lunch as you pass through the Gibbston Valley.

Your stay in Queenstown will be at Azur Lodge, a distinctively contemporary luxury lodge with nine private villas located on a hilltop overlooking some of the most spectacular scenery in New Zealand. The best of both worlds – the feeling of privacy and remoteness and yet in five minutes be part of the local dynamic scene in downtown Queenstown.

Stay 2 nights in Queenstown.

Accommodation: Azur Lodge

Day 14 Queenstown + Milford Sound Experience

Enjoy a scenic flight over Fiordland to reach Milford Sound. Upon reaching Milford Sound, you will enjoy a 2.5 hour Milford Sound Nature Cruise.

With specialist nature guides on board, Real Journeys Nature Cruises offer a close-up experience of Milford Sound’s rainforest, soaring rock walls, towering snow-capped mountains, cascading waterfalls, hanging valleys and wildlife… words just don’t do it justice, you have to see it for yourself! Throughout the cruise, the guides share stories of the fiord’s history and are happy to answer your questions.

After your cruise, relax on the flight while your pilot delivers you back to Queenstown.

The afternoon is yours to indulge in the best Queenstown has to offer. From exclusive wine tours to a plethora of adrenaline activities on offer, Queenstown will leave you hungry for more.

Day 15 Depart Queenstown

As your unforgettable holiday draws to a close, soak in the views one last time before departing Queenstown at your leisure.

Planning Luxury New Zealand Travel Packages

Our luxury New Zealand travel packages include superb accommodation (ranging from 5-star hotels to luxury lodges), exclusive activities, and a choice of transportation.

However, our New Zealand travel packages are fully customisable. The above itinerary includes the very best luxury lodges and hotels in each location. If you wish to reduce the price of your holiday, you may wish to change your accommodation level to suit.

Alternatively, you could choose between self-drive or privately guided travel depending on your preferences.

We also offer a 7 Day New Zealand Luxury Itinerary and a 10 Day New Zealand Luxury Itinerary.

Or you may wish to select one of our special interest tours. Choose from honeymoon and elopement packages, golf holidays, Lord of the Rings tours, ski tours, wilderness escapes, adventure tours, and more.