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Date: November 29th, 2018, Posted by macstudio
Step back and replenish your spirit with our 10 Day Wellness Retreat New Zealand. Our wellness itinerary offers the opportunity to rejuvenate, disconnect, and nourish your body with wholesome food and mindful movement.
Our suggested wellness retreat New Zealand itinerary is as follows:
The immersive programs at Aro Hā Retreat Queenstown create the opportunity for a full lifestyle shift. Re-balance your mental and physical wellbeing and leave feeling centered and rejuvenated.
Read on for more details on this transformative wellness retreat New Zealand.
Your exclusive New Zealand experience begins in Christchurch, the gateway to the South Island.
Upon arriving in Christchurch, explore the city or relax in your accommodation.
Stay 2 nights in Christchurch.
Accommodation: The George Hotel
Discover the vibrant and picturesque garden city, renowned for its natural beauty, lively entertainment scene, and strong cultural heritage. With its stunning botanical gardens and tree-lined avenues, Christchurch is both a sophisticated city and beautiful place to relax.
Your options include visiting the Canterbury Museum where you can find rare Maori artefacts; the stories behind them will fascinate you. The museum has a frequent range of special exhibitions, a café and a gift shop for you to browse. Other recommended activities include the Christchurch Gondola, Tramway, Punting on the Avon River and the Botanical Gardens Tour.
Flight time Christchurch to Nelson – 1 hour
Driving time Nelson to Abel Tasman – 1 hour
Board a domestic flight from Christchurch to Nelson today. Get a glimpse of the city before making your way to Abel Tasman, 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.
Split Apple Retreat, an exclusive, intimate luxury lodge, retreat, and wellness spa will re-ground you over the next three days. The retreat is renowned for its gourmet Asian-Mediterranean fusion cuisine, where every ingredient has been selected for its positive contribution to health and wellness. Indulge in the spectacular setting and unparalleled service.
Today is yours to unwind and indulge in the facilities and activities on offer at Split Apple Retreat.
Every aspect of the retreat revolves around relaxation. Facilities at the retreat include a salt-water infinity pool, a Japanese spa, a sauna, a steam room, a yoga pavilion, and a meditation theatre – make the most of your stay with a massage treatment, a private yoga session, a cooking lesson with Chef Pen, or a guided meditation.
Massage – indulge in a wide variety of massage treatments, including deep tissue, aromatherapy, reiki, acupuncture, craniosacral and reflexology.
Yoga – private yoga sessions are available with highly skilled instructors in the private yoga pavilion, choose between Hatha, Iyengar, Astanga and Vinyasa yoga.
Meditation – learn how to meditate quickly and effectively, the latest hi-tech brain-entrainment methods are used. A screening room with 8 luxurious reclining seats was constructed for this purpose.
Cooking lessons – if of interest, chef Pen will guide you through a number of dishes to make sure the health benefits of your stay are long-lasting.
Stay 2 nights in Abel Tasman.
Accommodation: Split Apple Retreat
Indulge in another day at the lodge or other bespoke activities that you may wish to sample in Abel Tasman National Park or Kahurangi National Park including boat trips, sea kayaking, fly fishing, cycling, private helicopter tours, and horseback riding.
Flight time Abel Tasman to Queenstown – 4 hours
Aro Hā is a next-level wellness experience, offering life shifting, body morphing, spirit lifting retreats. Aro Hā condense optimal living practices into signature wellness adventures. Multi-award winning, Aro Hā fuses advanced eco accommodation, permaculture based self-sufficiency, and world-class results-oriented programming.
Located in New Zealand’s ethereal Southern Alps, Aro Hā is designed for the rejuvenation of the human spirit. Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or friends, Aro Hā’s physically stimulating programs sculpt the body & mind with sub alpine hiking, vinyasa yoga, and dynamic movement. Programs include nutrient dense vegetarian cuisine, healing bodywork, and daily mindfulness practice. Your diligent attention to wellness will be rewarded with a youthful embodiment of exceptional health. If a shift is needed, you’ve found the right elixir.
Stay 6 nights at Aro Hā, Queenstown
Accommodation: Aro Hā
Aro Hā offer approximately three scheduled retreats per month, year round. New Zealand Luxury Holidays will work with you to ensure the retreat dates work in with your travel dates.
To provide an example retreat overview, each retreat is designed to quickly jumpstart your health. All fitness levels are welcome, and all will be supported while challenged.
Aro Hā’s Wellness Adventures are a refined retreat experience where all aspects of natural health are addressed. Expect your body to become lean, strong, and flexible, as your mind becomes calm, clear, and present. You are simply required to show up, be present, and allow the experience to unveil your inherent potential.
The entire experience is included, no “hidden” charges apply. Clients frequently report improved mood, sharper thinking, better sleep, lower blood pressure, improved direction in life, prolonged weight-loss, and even the lifting of depression.
The Aro Hā Difference
Typical Day
Aro Hā translates to, “In the presence of divine breath”. Breath is the foundation of life and wellbeing.
Harvard researchers have found we spend 46.9% of waking hours with a wandering mind, and this makes us unhappy. Mindfulness is a proven technique for dealing with stress, anxiety, and frustration. Practicing stillness connects us with a deep reservoir of intuitive wisdom.
At Aro Hā Mindfulness is sprinkled into your daily practices. Mindful sitting, walking, and eating will improve focus, build emotional intelligence, and help to uncover your innate joy.
Those living in isolation of friends and family have 4-6 times the chance of dying prematurely. At Aro Hā spend time connecting with your body and your environment. Share your adventure within a small group and create genuine friendships.
A healthy gut is required for a healthy body and mind. From hydration, to probiotics, to alkalinity, we build health from the digestive system outward.
At Aro Hā your will eat a rainbow of vegetarian cuisine. Paleo friendly, gluten free, dairy free, and enzymatically active, feed the body a diet rich in trace minerals, vitamins, and phytonutrients. You will be absolutely astonished by how delicious cleansing can be.
Movement increases endorphins and reduces cognitive decline. It reduces the stress hormones; cortisol & adrenaline. Exercise makes us all feel good, and is even a proven remedy for depression & anxiety.
Aro Hā blends movement with nature, spirit, and playfulness. You’ll practice Yoga, Pilates, interval training, and climbing mountains.
700 new chemicals introduced into our environment each year. Approximately 80,000 chemicals in use world wide. The average western newborn baby has 287 known chemicals in their umbilical cord blood.
While there is a greater issue that our society needs to remedy, at Aro Hā they minimise your personal chemistry experiment by supporting the elimination of toxins, and minimizing incoming toxic load.
The choices we make each day affect our brains, our bodies, and our minds. Whether looking at Epigenetics, Neuroplasticity, nutrition, or mindfulness the message is clear, we can promote healing physically & emotionally, or we can create illness.
Using the BREATH framework, your all-inclusive program will harness the collective wisdom of the Aro Hā Wellness Team to help you quickly unveil your own innate health. You will have no decisions to make, no business or family to attend to, just a step-by-step process that leaves you glowing.
As your unforgettable wellness holiday draws to a close, soak in the views one last time before departing Queenstown at your leisure.
A stay at Aro Hā New Zealand includes every aspect of your experience, from luxury rooms and wholesome food to immersive daily programs.
We aim to make your wellness retreat as straightforward and stress-free as possible.
Contact New Zealand Luxury Escapes today to plan your rejuvenating wellness retreat.
Posted in: 10 Day Luxury Escapes New Zealand, All Luxury Escapes, South Island, Wellness Experiences & Retreats
Date: November 28th, 2018, Posted by macstudio
Experience Middle Earth at its most enchanting with a New Zealand Lord of the Rings Tour.
New Zealand Luxury Escapes will whisk you away to stunning filming locations, the Hobbiton Movie Set, and Weta Workshop. Our New Zealand Lord of the Rings tour showcases the very best of Middle Earth.
Our recommended New Zealand Lord of the Rings tour itinerary is as follows:
Visit Hobbiton, Isengard, Weta Workshop, Lothlorien, the Misty Mountains, and more on this unforgettable Lord of the Rings tour.
Read on for full details of this New Zealand Lord of the Rings tour itinerary.
Your exclusive New Zealand experience begins in Auckland, the gateway to the North Island.
Auckland is known as the “City of Sails” and New Zealand’s largest city. Imagine an urban environment where everyone lives within half an hour of beautiful beaches, hiking trails and a dozen enchanting holiday islands.
Stay 1 night in Auckland.
Accommodation: Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour
Driving time Auckland to Taupo 4 hours or flight time 50 minutes
Make your way to Taupo today. Taupo is home to three of New Zealand’s iconic luxury lodges, world-class fly-fishing experiences and two of the country’s top 10 golf courses.
Nestled on the banks of the Waikato River in a location of immense beauty, Huka Lodge is consistently rated one of the world’s best luxury lodges. Enter a world where elegant and generous hospitality meets sophistication and style, creating a welcoming haven within 17 acres of magnificent manicured grounds. During your stay, indulge in pre-dinner drinks and canapés, a five-course gourmet dinner with a menu that changes daily, and a full country breakfast.
Stay 3 nights in Taupo.
Accommodation: Huka Lodge Taupo
Transfer Taupo to Matamata – 1.5 hours (each way)
Make your way to Matamata to discover the real Middle-Earth on the most picturesque private farmland. Near Matamata, visit the Hobbiton Movie Set from the Lord of the Rings films in a fascinating two-hour guided tour. The set has been completely rebuilt and will remain as it was seen in the films. There are spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges from the rolling green hills of the movie set, which is still a working sheep and beef farm. You can relax and soak up the unique atmosphere with a great cup of coffee or a light meal in The Shires Rest Cafe.
Unwind and enjoy all Huka Lodge has to offer today. Your options include a tutored whisky tasting, a massage or beauty treatment, tennis or croquet, or any of the activities on offer in the surrounding regions.
Driving time Taupo to Wellington 5 hours or flight time 1 hour
Wellington, New Zealand, was recently named “the coolest little capital in the world” by Lonely Planet. Surrounded by nature and fuelled by creative energy, Wellington is a compact city with a powerful mix of culture, history, nature and cuisine. Fuel your visit with strong coffee and world-class craft beer – Wellingtonians are masters of fine dining, with plenty of great restaurants to choose from.
Stay 3 nights in Wellington
Accommodation: Bolton Hotel
Today, join a full-day Lord of the Rings tour! Follow in the footsteps of Hobbits, Dwarfs, Elves and Men.You will cover a lot of ground on the tour, but there is enough time to explore, recreate scenes for yourself, and work out how the movies were made. The scenery of Wellington mirrors that of Middle-Earth.
You will be collected from your central city accommodation between 8.30 am and 8.45 am. The morning is spent exploring the city locations; you will spend 40 minutes walking through the Outer Shire. This location includes the famous ‘Get off the road’ scene, the ‘shortcut to mushrooms,’ the Black Rider scenes and many more. Then it’s off to the Weta Studios for an inside look at the Wellington film industry. Your visit to Weta will include the ‘Window into Workshop’ exhibition, which is a guided tour of the inner working of the Weta Studios. After the morning’s excitement, it’s time for an Orc-sized lunch. You will head out to Scorch-O-Rama cafe for an LOTR themed menu designed especially for Wellington Rover Tours. This is included in the cost of your tour.
The afternoon is spent exploring the Great River Anduin, the Gardens of Isengard, and Rivendell. You will also see the location where Helms Deep and Minas Tirith were filmed.
Relax at Oriental Bay, Wellington’s golden-sand inner-city beach and delve into the many museums, art galleries and theatre shows that make up the city’s pulsing cultural scene.
Flight time Wellington to Nelson 45 minutes
Driving time Nelson to Abel Tasman 1 hour or heli transfer 30 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.
Stonefly Lodge has four simply but beautifully appointed guest rooms, all with wide views across the river valley and nearby Kahurangi National Park. All power is generated on site and the lodge has been applauded for its sensitive environmental development and sustainability policy.
The Motueka River is renowned for its trout with some of the country’s highest trout populations; recent drift dives indicate populations of 100-500 trout per kilometre.
The lodge is centred around a high galleried great room with a large double-sided stone fireplace. The main dining area, bar, library-games area, and sunroom are all linked through this main room, providing a fabulous social space to mingle or withdraw, whatever your preference.
Stay 3 nights at Stonefly Lodge, Motueka.
Accommodation: Stonefly Lodge
Enjoy a boat cruise into Abel Tasman National Park, where you can relax on the hot golden sand, enjoy a day walk, or simply remain aboard for a return boat cruise. Take in the natural beauty and enjoy! This trip allows you to explore sections of the Abel Tasman Coast Track; the boat will stop at scenic points along the way where you can get off and walk a section of the track. The boat will then collect you later in the day. You could also just pack a picnic lunch and beach towels and laze on the beach for the day.
The day is yours to unwind, indulge in the facilities and activities on offer at Stonefly Lodge, or explore Abel Tasman National Park further.
You also have the option to add a Lord of the Rings helicopter flight to the entrance of the Mines of Moria (Mt Owen).
Flight time Nelson to Queenstown – 3 hours (2 flights)
Today your journey takes you to Queenstown, the ultimate luxury destination on New Zealand’s South Island.
Experience the best of Queenstown from the comfort of your premium lakefront penthouse at Eichard’s Private Hotel. For those who demand the height of excellence, the penthouse at Eichardt’s is the ultimate in luxury and sophistication. Overlooking the shores of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounds, the penthouse offers pure indulgence. The Penthouse experience commences on arrival. Your dedicated butler will escort you to your rooms, where you will enjoy every luxury, including pre-dinner cocktails served in-suite, Krug Champagne, and an excellent selection of Moet & Hennessy spirits replenished daily. Daily breakfast is prepared by your private chef.
Stay 4 nights in Queenstown.
Accommodation: Eichardt’s Private Hotel
Experience the best of The Lord of The Rings on this unique scenic helicopter tour of Lord of the Rings Forest locations.
After leaving Queenstown Airport, climb the steep slopes of the Misty Mountains to the Dimrill Dale and the great Gates of Khazad-dum. Mirrormere, source of the River Silverlode also lies below and after a pause for photographs you will cross Lake Wakatipu itself (Nen Hithoel) towards Amon Hen, scene of the Breaking of the Fellowship.
Excellent views can be obtained of the forest where Lurtz fought his final battle against Aragorn, Boromir, Legolas and Gimli. You will also see the site of the Ilithien camp where Frodo and Sam hid from the battle and first saw the Oliphants.
You will then continue Westward for a landing atop Mt Alfred (Dol Baran) where the vista of Nan Curunir (scene of Isengard and the Tower of Orthanc) unfolds. The great forest beckons, and as you fly over the outskirts of Lothlorien, the massive peaks of the Misty Mountains tower overhead.
Travel East towards the old gold mining area of Skippers before flying over the River Bruinen, the scene of the desperate encounter between Arwen and the Black Riders. Homeward bound, to your left can be seen further glimpses of the River Anduin (location of the Gates of Argonath) before landing back at Queenstown Airport.
This is the ultimate New Zealand Lord of the Rings tour for true Lord of the Rings fans – a flight through J.R.R. Tolkien’s imagination and Peter Jackson’s movie-making awaits you.
Today you have the option to explore the dramatic coastline of Lake Wakatipu on a cruise aboard the indulgent Pacific Jemm. Lake Wakatipu is over 80km long and offers a huge variety of landscapes to enjoy from out on the water. Secluded coves and towering mountain ranges, private beaches and a vibrant inner harbour give scope to make your experience one to remember.
On this cruise you would enjoy an antipasto lunch with champagne, before stopping off at Bob’s cove for a swim (if you dare!)
Today is spent at your leisure, either relaxing in the privacy of your Eichardt’s Penthouse and perhaps indulging in one of the spa treatments on offer, or adding another activity from the wide array available in Queenstown. Options range from guided nature walks to private wine tours.
As your unforgettable holiday draws to a close, soak in the views one last time before departing Queenstown at your leisure.
Our Lord of the Rings luxury holiday package is fully customizable. For example, you may wish to include additional filming locations along your route. Options include:
We can also change your accommodation level, modify the itinerary to suit your time frame, or add or remove activities.
When planning your Middle Earth holiday, read our Lord of the Rings tour information for ideas and inspiration.
You could even consider a stay in a hobbit hole for the ultimate Lord of the Rings experience.
Contact us today to begin planning your luxury New Zealand Lord of the Rings tour.
Posted in: 14 Day Escapes, All Luxury Escapes, Lord of The Rings, New Zealand
Date: November 28th, 2018, Posted by macstudio
At New Zealand Luxury Escapes, our New Zealand golf packages aim to give avid golfers the experience of a lifetime.
Golf in New Zealand is an unforgettable experience, with world-renowned courses that take advantage of our unique, breathtaking terrain. Play along ocean cliffs, beneath rugged mountains, and along rolling greens.
Our New Zealand golf packages showcase the very best courses the country has to offer.
For a 14 day New Zealand golf vacation, we recommend the following itinerary:
Our New Zealand golf packages are fully customisable. In other words, we can either modify this 14-day itinerary for golf in New Zealand or design a bespoke itinerary based on your tastes and preferences.
Read on for the full details of our 14 Day New Zealand Golf Packages.
Flight transfer Auckland to Northland – 1 hour
Your exclusive New Zealand golf experience begins in Auckland, the gateway to the North Island. Get a glimpse of the city before being whisked away to Northland. There, discover a subtropical wonderland of islands, marine life, kauri forests and Maori myths and legends.
The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs is where you will spend the next three days. Immerse yourself in relaxation while creating lifelong golfing memories at a course currently ranked #39 in the world by Golf Digest Top 100 Greatest Golf Courses. The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs is set on 6000 acres and affords spectacular 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean. In addition, the retreat gives access to three private beaches.
Named the number one resort in Australia and New Zealand by Travel + Leisure, Kauri Cliffs is a leisure travellers dream. Activities abound with immersive local heritage tours, bountiful fishing, bush walks, mountain biking, quad biking and a spa sanctuary hidden within native forest.
Stay 3 nights in the Northland.
Accommodation: The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs
The par 72 championship golf course measures 7,119 yards / 6,510 metres and offers five sets of tees to challenge every skill level. With cliff-edge fairways perched 140 metres above sea level and with a surface that remains firm and fast, this course offers holes unlike anything you will find elsewhere in the world. While every hole has spectacular views of the Bay, some play cautiously alongside deep ravines as others intimidate golfers with deep cliff top bunkers and sheer drops off the very edge of the earth. In contrast, the beautiful inland holes wind through marsh, forest and farmland, offering a range of scenic experiences in one location.
Looking for something more relaxing? Pamper yourself at The Spa. This indulgent spa is nestled at the edge of a Totara forest, overlooking a verdant fern glen and winding stream. Each treatment room, including the couple’s room, has floor to ceiling views and opens onto a private outdoor patio. The spa has a sauna, jacuzzi spa pool, indoor heated lap pool and fitness centre.
One of the many fine dining options at the lodge will make the perfect end to your day.
A day of adventure exploring Northland – fish, heritage, surf, fly, picnic, walk – the choice is yours.
Fishing is a religion around these parts. Join a local guide at one of the beaches on the property and test your skill at hooking a snapper or kahawai (similar to a blue fish). Bring your catch back to the lodge and the chef will prepare it for your dinner.
The Kauri Cliffs Guided Heritage Discovery tour will give you unparalleled insight into New Zealand’s complex identity. Journey through time as your experienced guide unravels the rich and diverse tapestry of history that took place at this vast property.
Surf some of New Zealand’s most beautiful untouched scenery including Kauri Cliffs. It is as though nature designed the Northland coastline with surfers in mind. Tiny coves, long sandy beaches, river mouths, point breaks, sandbars and reefs . . . all within a short drive. Enjoy a two-hour beginner’s lesson at Kauri Cliffs or an all-day Surf-safari of Northland beaches.
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Bay of Islands from the air with a Helicopter Bay of Islands Discovery Tour. Fly out to the world famous “Hole in the Rock”and take a bird’s eye view of Russell, Paihia & Waitangi townships.
Flight transfer Northland to Taupo – 2 hours
The Lodge at Kinloch is set within the tranquil 254ha grounds of the Kinloch Club Golf Course, on the shores of Lake Taupo. This modern uber-luxury lodge has been designed to emulate a version of the Kinloch region namesake Scottish castle, but with a truly modern 21st century design concept. The main lodge, with local schist stone exteriors features dramatic framed vistas of the sensational views of the golf course and the ever changing Lake Taupo. A commanding gangway entrance to the lodge leads to the lush central courtyard on guest arrival, with outdoor fireplace and reflecting pool.
Designed by one of the games best strategic thinkers, Kinloch is New Zealand’s only Jack Nicklaus designed golf course. With panoramic views of New Zealand’s largest fresh-water lake, Lake Taupo and the natural beauty of rugged rural farmland, this world-class championship Par 72 course is a hybrid between a Links and a Parkland course although it is often compared to the classic link courses of Scotland and Ireland.
Stay 3 nights at The Lodge at Kinloch, Taupo.
Accommodation: The Lodge at Kinloch
A Top 100 golf course, the Kinloch Club measures 6519 yards off the white tees, and 7363 yards off the Championship tees, Kinloch offers an exceptional golfing experience.
The design philosophy behind Kinloch was to enhance the natural environment – and allow the surroundings of the stunning Taupo region to shape each hole. But beware, it’s tough. The only flat lie you will have is on the tee box, so be prepared. Extensive bunkering guards the front of the greens and you’ll have to think carefully of every single hole shot. As Kinloch’s Director of Golf Tom Long states ‘’If you don’t come out of Kinloch mentally exhausted, your scores going to blow out.’’
There’s only one thing better than the satisfying feeling of holing out on the 18th at Kinloch, and that’s relaxing with friends in the superb luxurious Kinloch Clubhouse. The Kinloch Clubhouse features outstanding panoramic vistas all year round with comfortable indoor and outdoor seating to savour the views. With full gourmet catering and bar facilities available before, during and after your round of golf you’re sure to stay you energised and refreshed.
Today is spent at your leisure, either relaxing at the lodge, playing another round of golf (perhaps at Wairakei International), or exploring what Taupo has to offer.
Taupo is home to some of New Zealand’s most amazing natural wonders. Visit the Huka Falls, where you can witness the phenomenon of natural hydro power with more than 220,000 litres of water per second barreling over an 11 meter high waterfall. Take a kayak or boat tour around the scenic Western Bays of Lake Taupō to see the huge Māori rock carving at Mine Bay. Get active and hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing with a private guide, often described as New Zealand’s greatest day walk; lava flows, an active crater, emerald-coloured lakes and magnificent views combine to make this an unforgettable walking journey. Or visit Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, which showcases New Zealand’s most colourful and unique geothermal elements sculpted by thousands of years of volcanic activity.
Flight transfer Taupo to Cape Kidnappers – 1 hour
Far out to the east of Hawke’s Bay wine country, The Farm at Cape Kidnappers Luxury Lodge sits atop rolling hills and rugged cliffs that give way to vast sea views and an ever-present horizon. Named as one of the world’s most extraordinary luxury destinations, set on a 6,000 acre sheep and cattle farm, this unique property not only offers an exquisite luxury lodge and spa, it also boasts one of the world’s top golf courses.
Ranked as one of the top two hotels in New Zealand and Australia by Travel + Leisure, and within the top 20 hotels in the world by Conde Nast Traveller, Cape Kidnappers delivers stunning exclusive guest experiences including the Can-Am Farm Tour, Kiwi Discovery Walk, Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony and much, much more.
Stay 3 nights in Cape Kidnappers.
Accommodation: The Farm at Cape Kidnappers
The Farm at Cape Kidnappers boasts a par 71 championship golf course designed by Tom Doak. The golf course measures 7,119 yards (6,510 meters) and will challenge golfers of all skill levels. Completed in 2004, this spectacular New Zealand golf course has been hailed as one of the great modern marvels in golf. Built on a ridge-and-valley landscape and with stunning sea views, Cape Kidnappers Golf Course plays high above the ocean atop dramatic cliffs.
With cliff-edge fairways perched 140 metres above sea level and with surface that remains firm and fast, this course offers holes unlike anything you will find elsewhere in the world. The golf complex includes a world-class practice range, putting and chipping greens, a well-stocked golf shop, club house and premium ladies’ and mens’ rental clubs are available.
A diverse range of activities can be arranged. These include hikes across the farmland, to a visit to the gannet colony, picnics at Black Reef, can-am adventure tours, clay-bird shooting, shepherding shows, kiwi discovery walks, wildlife tours, horse riding and heli-fishing.
Cape Kidnappers Lodge sits in Hawke’s Bay, one of New Zealand’s leading wine regions. Red wines – cabernet sauvignon, merlot and syrah – are the standouts of this region, along with stunning chardonnays. It is also New Zealand’s Art Deco capital. The cities of Napier and Hastings were rebuilt in the architectural styles of the time following the devastating 1931 earthquake.
Flight transfer Cape Kidnappers to Queenstown – 4 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 and an array of world renowned golf courses, Queenstown is a delight to experience.
Your accommodation in Queenstown is at Hulbert House, regarded as one of the most beautiful luxury boutique hotels that Queenstown has to offer, Hulbert House provides both luxury accommodation in Queenstown and a luxury experience suitable for all discerning travellers. Situated just a short walk from Queenstown’s vibrant centre, Hulbert House is imbued with a sense of serenity and historic elegance. Your accommodation includes breakfast, refreshments, pre-dinner drinks and canapés, and personal concierge service.
If your traveling partners are not golfers, Queenstown offers a wide range of options for sightseeing and relaxation. For example, they may wish to indulge in the spa treatments on offer at Hulbert House. Alternatively, they could venture out to sample the activities available in Queenstown. Options range from guided nature walks and private cruises on Lake Wakatipu to more adrenaline-fuelled activities such as jet-boating and skydiving.
Stay 5 nights in Queenstown.
Accommodation: Hulbert House
The Hills is New Zealand’s most exclusive golf club. Members and guests enjoy an unparalleled level of service in a unique environment that incorporates a championship golf course with full practice facilities and the finest clubhouse hospitality.
Kiwi entrepreneur Sir Michael Hill’s private golf course in Arrowtown was designed by Darby Partners and opened in 2007 to host The New Zealand Open. Set over 500 acres of land across a glacial valley, the layout highlights the dramatic elevation changes and rocky schist outcrops that are a feature of the area. Sculptures crafted by New Zealand artists compliment the natural beauty of the courses lakes, waterways and wetland areas. The 6596 meter par 72 championship course features numerous elevated tees offering players an excellent view of the challenge ahead and 360 degree views of spectacular snow capped mountain scenery. There are no parallel fairways and no two holes alike.
While primarily a private club, The Hills accepts a limited number of visitor bookings daily. Players visiting have access to the clubhouse, locker room facilities, and driving range for the day of their booking. The clubhouse restaurant is open to players for both breakfast and lunch. In addition, food and beverages can be delivered on course by request.
With a backdrop of 2300 vertical metres of the Remarkables mountain range and an armchair view of outstanding lake panoramas, Jack’s Point Golf Course is one of the most visually spectacular in the world. As an 18 hole par 72 championship course it offers golfers of any calibre a challenging and unforgettable experience.
Jacks Point Golf Course works with nature, not against it. Designed with minimal excavation, the 6388 metre (7088 yard) course is built on the most spectacular of Jack’s Point terrain, weaving through tussocks grasslands, dramatic rock outcrops, steep bluffs and swathes of native bush to the edge of Lake Wakatipu. Stone walls adjacent to the fairways evoke its high country farming heritage, so the entire Jacks Point golf course has been designed to take advantage of its history and terrain – raw, dramatic and wild.
Set in a natural alpine amphitheatre against the backdrop of the Remarkables Mountain Range, this 27 hole golf course delivers world-class golf. Millbrook is simply an unforgettable Queenstown golfing experience.
This award winning golf course was also voted Best Golf Hotel at the World Golf Awards. In addition, Millbrook was named Oceania’s Best Golf Hotel in New Zealand. The course was originally designed by renowned professional golfer Sir Bob Charles, then renovated by Greg Turner in October 2010 with the addition of The Coronet Nine. Millbrook is a breathtaking environment to tee off at. The course offers three fabulous nine hole courses, each named after prominent Queenstown landmarks–The Remarkables, The Arrow and The Coronet Nine.
Explore the Queenstown area today on a heli wine tour. Depart Queenstown mid-morning on a scenic helicopter flight into the dramatic Remarkables Range. Surrounded by rugged peaks, you will land amidst the alpine scenery to take in the spectacular views. From there, explore the gorges and valleys between Queenstown and Banockburn before arriving in the heart of the wine region.
Land at Peregrine winery for a complimentary wine tasting amongst the picturesque Central Otago wine region.
Enquire for options on private tastings and tours.
Discover Queenstown today. there are many options available including lake cruises or discovering nearby towns such as Glenorchy and Arrowtown. If you are an adventurous soul, you may like to add on skydiving, bungy jumping, jet boating, rafting, heli-biking or a 4WD backcountry experience.
As your unforgettable New Zealand golf vacation draws to a close, soak in the views one last time before departing Queenstown.
New Zealand Luxury Escapes specialises in exclusive, high end New Zealand golf packages. Stay at New Zealand’s finest luxury lodges, play world-renowned courses, and enjoy the best our country has to offer.
When crafting our New Zealand golf packages, we ensure a well-balanced itinerary, with plenty of time for both golfing and relaxation. In addition, we make travel stress-free by overseeing every detail.
However, we realize every traveler is different. Our team have a vast array of local knowledge and expertise. So, if you would prefer a bespoke New Zealand golf holiday, we will work with you to design the ideal itinerary. Our New Zealand golf packages are a perfect starting point to get an idea of what is possible. After that, we will hone in on what matters most to you.
Our 14 day New Zealand golf tour includes these top courses:
In addition, many top golf destinations in New Zealand offer a range of courses to sample. For instance, Queenstown is home to more than five renowned golf clubs. If you wish to play as many top New Zealand golf courses as possible, we can amend your itinerary to include these.
We work with luxury accommodation providers around the country, from 5-star hotels through to all-inclusive luxury lodges.
For an unparalleled New Zealand golf tour, we recommend staying at the luxury lodges attached to exclusive golf clubs. For instance, The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs and The Farm at Cape Kidnappers are both exquisite luxury lodges. In addition, they serve as centerpieces for the Kauri Cliffs and Cape Kidnappers golf courses.
However, if you are hoping for more affordable luxury with our New Zealand golf packages, 5-star hotels are an ideal alternative.
Our New Zealand golf packages utilize flights between each golf destination. However, while you are staying in each region, you have the option to choose between three transportation options:
If you wish to explore between rounds of golf, New Zealand Luxury Escapes offers a range of luxury vehicles to enhance your golf vacation. Examples include:
These are some of the most popular models that suit both our clients and New Zealand roads.
Our New Zealand golf packages allow time to see the most enchanting landscapes of New Zealand at your leisure. Imagine soaring above Milford Sound in a private helicopter before landing atop a mountain for a champagne lunch, visiting New Zealand’s best wineries on a private tour, dining on freshly caught crayfish on a private yacht–the list of possibilities is endless.
If you have any preferences or experiences you don’t want to miss, let us know and we will make it happen.
As you begin planning, you may wish to consider our other New Zealand golf packages. We also offer a 7 Day New Zealand Golf Itinerary and a 10 Day New Zealand Golf Itinerary.
Posted in: 14 Day Escapes, All Luxury Escapes, Featured, Golf, New Zealand
Date: November 27th, 2018, Posted by macstudio
The South Island is famous worldwide for its adventure offerings, and our New Zealand South Island itinerary for 10 days brings you the best outdoor adventures in the country.
Swim with dolphins, hike in alpine splendor, and kayak a stunning stretch of coastline. Everywhere you travel, your adventures take place against a backdrop of breathtaking scenery.
For adventurous travelers, our recommended New Zealand South Island itinerary for 10 days is as follows:
Read on for the full details of our recommended New Zealand adventure itinerary.
Your exclusive New Zealand experience begins in Nelson, situated at the picturesque northern end of the South Island.
Driving time Nelson to Abel Tasman 1 hour
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.
Stonefly Lodge has four simply but beautifully appointed guest rooms, all with wide views across the river valley and nearby Kahurangi National Park. All power is generated on site and the lodge has been applauded for its sensitive environmental development and sustainability policy.
The Motueka River is renowned for its trout with some of the country’s highest trout populations; recent drift dives indicate populations of 100-500 trout per kilometre.
The lodge is centred around a high galleried great room with a large double-sided stone fireplace. The main dining area, bar, library-games area, and sunroom are all linked through this main room, providing a fabulous social space to mingle or withdraw, whatever your preference.
Stay 3 nights at Stonefly Lodge, Motueka.
Accommodation: Stonefly Lodge
This morning, venture to 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.
Explore the highlights of the remote Abel Tasman coastline today on a cruise and kayak tour that showcases the beautiful golden-sand beaches, rich marine life, tranquil lagoons and carved granite coastline of the Abel Tasman National Park. Your experience includes guided sea kayaking along the granite coastline, opportunities to hike sections of the Abel Tasman Coast Track, and swim off the sandy beaches. A delightful picnic lunch and refreshments are supplied as part of your full-day excursion.
Today, enjoy an unforgettable heli biking adventure along the Old Ghost Road with Helibike Nelson. This newly opened epic trail traverses spectacular alpine terrain. Begin with a helicopter flight over the remote and awe-inspiring peaks of Kahurangi National Park before landing at Ghost Lake Hut at the top of the Old Ghost Road. On the way, you will pass over the unique marbled landscape of Mt Owen, with deeply crevassed bluffs and lush native forest. After soaking in the views, your bike adventure begins past spectacular lookouts and along tranquil forest paths. This intermediate trip can be customised to suit novice riders.
Driving time Abel Tasman to Picton 3 hours
Your journey continues through the Marlborough region to reach Bay of Many Coves Resort, located near Picton in the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds. Marlborough is New Zealand’s largest wine growing region, so you may wish to sample award-winning wines.
There are few locations in the world where you can so easily discover the true romance of nature. Set in the heart of the Marlborough Sounds, Bay of Many Coves Resort is a luxury five star resort hotel nestled amid a rolling landscape of untouched native bush that kisses the shoreline of the tranquil bay below. Even arriving becomes part of the destination. Enjoy the all-too-brief journey from the ‘mainland’, by water or air, through some of the most spectacular scenery on the planet. Whether you are seeking world-class cuisine, breathtaking scenery, the spirit of adventure or simply a sense of renewal, you will find it there. Internationally-renowned walking tracks and adventure cruises await you on our doorstep. And, with our world-class chefs close at hand, Bay of Many Coves offers a unique experience that is unforgettably yours.
Stay 2 nights in the Marlborough Sounds.
Accommodation: Bay of Many Coves Resort
Option to join a charter today for a chance to swim with dolphins. Your cruise takes you through the calm waters of the majestic Marlborough Sounds, which is home to five species of dolphins. Swimming with dolphins is a truly unforgettable experience, and the Marlborough Sounds are ideal, with shimmering, flat waters and an abundance of wildlife.
Driving time Picton to Blenheim 30 minutes
Flight time Blenheim to Queenstown 3.5 hours (2 flights)
Driving time Queenstown to Glenorchy 1 hour
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.
Queenstown is also known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, and with this title comes a plethora of adrenaline activities from whitewater rafting and canyoning through to skydiving and bungy jumping.
Your accommodation near Queenstown is at Blanket Bay Lodge, in the picturesque and remote Glenorchy region. Voted one of the world’s best luxury lodges, Blanket Bay is nestled amidst the rugged snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. All rooms at Blanket Bay are positioned to take full advantage of the magnificent lake and mountain vistas. Natural materials are showcased throughout, echoing the lodge’s integration and interaction with the environment. Your stay includes breakfast, pre-dinner cocktails and dinner.
Stay 2 nights in Queenstown.
Accommodation: Blanket Bay Lodge
Choose from one of the range of unforgettable adventures on offer today. Jet-boat through the wilderness of Mt Aspiring National Park, skydive in one of the most scenic locations on earth, heli hike on a magnificent glacier, or fish in crystal clear waters.
Driving time Glenorchy to Milford Sound 5.5 hours or heli transfer 45 minutes
Embark on a scenic journey along the Milford Road, one of the finest alpine drives in the world. The scenery is exceptional, ranging from broad, grassy flats, dense rainforest, and towering mountains through to glacial lakes and alpine herb fields. No other road in Fiordland offers such a diverse glimpse into New Zealand’s alpine zone.
Once in Milford Sound, meet the Fiordland Jewel, a luxury vessel that will give you an exclusive taste of Milford Sound as you spend a night in the ‘eighth wonder of the world.’ You will be guided by the expert crew, who will share with you the incredible natural wilderness and wildlife, which can include seals, dolphins, and penguins.
Your stay includes an exquisite three-course evening meal as well as a full cooked breakfast. During your immersive Fiordland experience, you will have the chance to explore by kayak or tender boat, and the top-deck hot tub awaits you for a relaxing evening soak.
Stay 1 night in Milford Sound.
Accommodation: The Fiordland Jewel
Driving time Milford Sound to Queenstown 4 hours or heli transfer 45 minutes
Today after making your way back to Queenstown, you will be transferred by helicopter to Minaret Station, a secluded lodge accessible only by helicopter.
Your stay at Minaret Station will give you exclusive access to Mt Aspiring National Park and the multitude of adventures on offer in this alpine wonderland. Framed by the rugged beauty of the secluded mountain landscape, Minaret Lodge offers a level of comfort and style never before available in New Zealand’s wilderness.
Included in your stay are a full a la carte breakfast, lunch (picnic or seated), pre-dinner canapés and a gourmet three-course evening meal. Beverages are also part of the experience.
Stay 2 nights in Wanaka.
Accommodation: Minaret Station
Explore the stunning wilderness around Minaret Lodge today on a guided heli-hike. Helicopter transport ensures exclusive access to otherwise inaccessible locations. Choose to get up close to rushing waterfalls and craggy mountain ridges or simply meander through gently undulating valley floors, a landscape of remote tranquility. Pause to savour a delectable picnic lunch and soak in the breathtaking views.
As your unforgettable New Zealand vacation draws to a close, return to Queenstown Airport by scenic helicopter transfer. Soak in the views one last time before departing Queenstown at your leisure.
Our New Zealand adventure itinerary is fully customisable, as we know every traveler has different interests and must-do activities.
With so many rewarding adventure activities available in New Zealand, we have left space in this itinerary for you to pick and choose your favorites. For example, you have a free day in Queenstown to choose from the wide range of activities on offer. Sample jet-boat rides, “funyak” (inflatable kayak) adventures, skydiving, bungy jumping, 4WD tours, and much more.
We can also add adventure activities to our other South Island luxury holiday packages. Alternatively, we can modify this itinerary to match your timeframe if you have more or less than 10 days in New Zealand.
Contact our team at New Zealand Luxury Escapes today to begin planning your New Zealand adventure.
Posted in: 10 Day Luxury Escapes New Zealand, Adventure, All Luxury Escapes, South Island
Date: November 27th, 2018, Posted by macstudio
New Zealand offers bountiful fishing opportunities, from its thousands of kilometres of undulating coastline to its crystal-clear rivers and lakes. A New Zealand fishing trip takes in the top fishing destinations and most prized catches around the country.
At New Zealand Luxury Escapes, our New Zealand fishing trip itinerary showcases the best the country has to offer. We recommend the below 14 day itinerary as a starting point. However, we find every traveler is different, so we work with each client to craft a bespoke vacation package that best suits your interests.
Our luxury fishing tours include stays at the best New Zealand lodges and fishing excursions in a variety of landscapes.
We recommend the following 14 Day New Zealand Fishing Trip Itinerary:
Read on for full details of our recommended 14 Day New Zealand Fishing Trip.
Flight transfer Auckland to Bay of Islands – 1 hour
Your exclusive New Zealand fishing trip experience begins in Auckland, the gateway to the North Island. Get a glimpse of the city before being whisked away to the Bay of Islands a world renowned holiday destination offering over 144 islands to explore in a sub tropical paradise.
World class big game fishing, deep sea fishing, salt water fly fishing, scenic cruising, sailing, diving, kayaking, bush walking, helicopter flight seeing, romantic picnics on your own private island are but some of the many options available.
Eagles Nest, your multi-award winning New Zealand luxury hotel & retreat, is set within a 75 acre estate atop its own private ridgeline offering spectacular views of the Bay of Islands. Unlike so many New Zealand luxury hotels, Eagles Nest at Russell in the Bay of Islands also offers the services of its own resident personal trainer and spa therapists ensuring the most indulgent of stays. Four of the five world class villas offers its own private heated horizon edged lap pool.
A team of talented resident personal chefs can spoil you for the evening. They will offer a specially designed menu of your choice featuring freshly caught fish, venison, lamb, crayfish (lobster) and more.
Stay 2 nights at Eagles Nest, Bay of Islands (extend your stay for more fishing opportunities).
Accommodation: Eagles Nest
There are a range of luxury fishing charters available. The area is famous for its game fishing with species like marlin, tuna, mahimahi and yellowtail kingfish in the local waters. Deep sea fishing options are varied with snapper and hapuku as prime target species. There is excellent boat and shore based saltwater fly fishing available for snapper, kahawai and kingfish. Striped marlin are a local specialty and plenty of record-breaking fish have been caught in the Bay of Islands. Land your fish or catch and release – your choice.
There is also a smorgasbord of non-fishing adventures at your fingertips, scenic cruising, sailing, diving, kayaking, bush walking, mountain biking, helicopter flight seeing, romantic picnics on your own private island are but some of the many options available from Eagles Nest.
Flight transfer Bay of Islands to Rotorua – 1.5 hours
Rotorua is known for crystal-clear streams and world class fly-fishing, magical forests, shooting geysers and natural hot springs, as well as showcasing our fascinating Maori culture.
Your stay at Treetops Lodge and Estate will indulge your senses and rejuvenate your soul, brining you back to nature. The lodge is nestled in 2,500 acres of private native forest and pristine wilderness. Don your waders, tie your flies, and find the perfect spot to set your hook. Prepare for victory and eradicate that niggling tale of the one that got away with an amazing day of premier fishing in the pristine waters of the estate. Enjoy beautiful scenic vistas and crystal-clear waters and enjoy some of the best brown and rainbow trout fishing in the world, regardless of season.
Stay 2 nights at Treetops Lodge, Rotorua (extend your stay for more fishing opportunities).
Accommodation: Treetops Lodge Rotorua
Treetops is known for both its trout and saltwater fishing, being close to the central lakes and rivers, but only an hour from the deep sea fishing grounds of the Bay of Plenty. Locally there are 13 trout fishing lakes and 60 streams and rivers, and it’s an easy drive to the famed Tongariro River. Fishing for brown and rainbow trout is by fly, boat and spin fishing. There are also small numbers of brook and tiger trout. The nearby Bay of Plenty has some of New Zealand’s best game and saltwater sport fishing. The lodge will supply you with all the fly fishing gear you will need including waders, rods, reels and warm thermals. Charter boats will do the same for deep sea fishing
Outside of fishing, the lodge offers stunning walking, biking and horseback trails or refresh and unwind at the wilderness spa offering luxurious wellness treatments. Rotorua also offers fascinating geothermal and Maori cultural experiences as well as an adventure scene with an epic network of biking trails and adventure activities such as rafting and tree-top zip lining.
Flight Transfer Rotorua to Taupo – 30 minutes or Private Land Transfer – 1 hour
Poronui is the ultimate luxury sporting retreat, a place where you can have fun and relax in the authentic New Zealand countryside. Located in the beautiful Taharua Valley on New Zealand’s spectacular North Island, the estate boasts some of the world’s best wilderness experiences. The scenery is breathtaking, the hospitality is second-to-none, but it is the attention to the little things that makes a stay here truly memorable. Be engulfed by a warm welcome, unforgettable experiences, passionate people, luxury accommodation and gourmet New Zealand cuisine.
Poronui is one of New Zealand’s most well-known fishing lodges, and is rated one of the top 10 fishing lodges in the world by Forbes magazine. A favourite of passionate fishermen for its excellent brown and rainbow trout opportunities, it also attracts a lot of sporting hunters, and is a recognised wilderness retreat as well.
Stay 2 nights at Poronui Lodge, Taupo (extend your stay for more fishing opportunities).
Accommodation: Poronui Lodge
Poronui was the site of some of the earliest trout releases into NZ waters in the late 1800s. There is world-class brown and rainbow trout fishing on Poronui’s 40 kms (25 mi) of fishing rivers. Fishing at Poronui is synonymous with gin-clear waters surrounded by native forest and big brown and rainbow trout in the heart of New Zealand’s backcountry. You can stay close to home and travel on foot or by 4WD to some of Poronui’s easily accessible fishing rivers.
Uncover the full range of incredible fishing experiences by taking a helicopter ride to one of the many rivers available to anglers, including the famed Tongariro River. The helicopter will pick you up right in front of the lodge and the guides will lead you to some of the most challenging and legendary fly fishing in the world. Take pleasure in stalking and sight casting to large browns and rainbows in the shallow, clear waters.
**There are three accommodation options – the main Poronui Lodge is a world-class wilderness sporting lodge with just 7 adjoining cabins overlooking the Taharua Valley. The rustic-luxe Safari Camp, on the banks of the Mohaka River, has beautifully appointed canvas-roofed and walled cabins where you can really get a feel for the wilderness surrounding you without compromising on comfort. And Blake House is a stately owner’s residence available for exclusive use; it can accommodate up to 16 people in four double suites and two luxury bunkrooms.
Flight transfer Taupo to Marlborough Sounds – 2 hours
Today your journey takes you to New Zealand’s South Island. There are few locations in the world where you can so easily discover the true romance of nature. Set in the heart of the Marlborough Sounds, Bay of Many Coves Resort is a luxury five star resort hotel nestled amid a rolling landscape of untouched native bush that kisses the shoreline of the tranquil bay below. Bay of Many Coves Resort is a gorgeous place to enjoy some great sea fishing, delicious cuisine and let yourself and your partner or friends be thoroughly pampered.
The apartments are stacked across a hillside above the sea, overlooking the Bay of Many Coves, which opens off Queen Charlotte Sound. Fishing is provided by quality local charter boats with blue cod, terakihi, snapper, kahawai and gurnard in the inshore waters and the possibility of grouper as you get out towards Cook Strait.
Stay 2 nights at Bay of Many Coves Resort, Marlborough (extend your stay for more fishing opportunities).
Accommodation: Bay of Many Coves Resort
Day fishing charter options include a luxury launch and a more traditional local fishing boat. The main target species are blue cod (catch & release), terakihi, snapper, kahawai and gurnard; further out to sea there are grouper to be had in season there is also the chance to try for scallops. There are also opportunities to visit local salmon, paua (abalone), green-shelled mussel and oyster farms. All the fishing gear you require will be provided by the charter boats.
There are also plenty of other things to do. The resort is close to the renowned Queen Charlotte Track which provides a great day’s hiking. Go scuba diving (the wreck of the Russian liner, the Mikhail Lermontov, is definitely worth a dive if you’re experienced), go dolphin-watching or take a kayak or rowboat and explore the nearby bays. Join an eco-cruise and visit nearby protected islands and historic places.
Flight transfer Marlborough Sounds to Motueka – 45 minutes
Just imagine luxury accommodation, fine cuisine, remote location central to three spectacular national parks and easy access to world renowned rivers, for some of New Zealand’s best fly fishing experiences.
Stonefly Lodge has four simply but beautifully appointed guest rooms, all with wide views across the river valley and nearby Kahurangi National Park. All power is generated on site and the lodge has been applauded for its sensitive environmental development and sustainability policy.
The Motueka River is renowned for its trout with some of the country’s highest trout populations; recent drift dives indicate populations of 100-500 trout per kilometre.
The lodge is centred around a high galleried great room with a large double-sided stone fireplace. The main dining area, bar, library-games area, and sunroom are all linked through this main room, providing a fabulous social space to mingle or withdraw, whatever your preference.
Stay 2 nights at Stonefly Lodge, Motueka (extend your stay for more fishing opportunities).
Accommodation: Stonefly Lodge
There are dozens of rivers within an easy drive of the lodge and many more accessible by helicopter. Fishing is stalking and sight casting for wild brown trout. The Motueka river, right outside the front door (almost), is an excellent trout-fishing river, the average fish size is 1.5 – 2 kg (3 – 5 lb) but 3 kg (7 lb) fish are often caught, and the occasional 4.5 kg (10 lb) one as well. The lodge has good fishing gear available but if you want to bring your own – rod 5 -6 weight, 8ft 6′ to 9ft, reel should hold 100 metres plus of backing and have a good drag system. Fly line – floating line to suit the rod weight, with double taper or weight forward most suitable.
Stonefly Lodge is also an ideal base from which to explore the Abel Tasman, Nelson Lakes, and Kahurangi National Parks, along with all the wineries and craft studios the region is renowned for.
Flight transfer Motueka to Wanaka – 4 hours
Wanaka is like no other and is New Zealand’s premier alpine destination. Here you will find stunning glacial lakes, incredible mountain vistas, world class fishing and all manner of outdoor pursuits.
Minaret Station Alpine Lodge is the epitome of comfort and luxurious accommodation in the wilds of the Southern Alps. Minaret Station is only accessible by helicopter therefore treats guests, to an authentic Alpine experience. Framed by the rugged beauty of this secluded mountain landscape, guests will enjoy a level of comfort and style never before available in New Zealand’s wilderness.
Guests staying at Minaret Station’s luxury lodge are hosted either exclusively, or accommodated as part of a group in one of the four luxuriously appointed Alpine Chalets. Impeccable cuisine is central to any luxury vacation experience. Using fresh local produce, resident chefs and kitchen staff prepare modern European and Asian Fusion cuisine coupled with an extensive range of local and award winning wines. Guests can choose to dine in the Mountain Kitchen’s dining room, alfresco on the deck or in the privacy of their own chalet.
Stay 2 nights at Minaret Station Alpine Lodge, Wanaka (extend your stay for more fishing opportunities).
Accommodation: Minaret Station Alpine Lodge
All fishing at Minaret Station is heli-fishing, so the options are endless. A stay at Minaret Station is sure to be a wilderness highlight of any New Zealand fishing trip.
Minaret Station specialises in backcountry fly-fishing experiences targeting primarily rainbow and brown trout with both species often sharing the same stretch of water. Chinook salmon provide an exciting challenge during their short season.
Minaret Station privately owns a 50,000 acre parcel of wilderness providing guests with exclusive access to prime fishing rivers in the Southern Alps. In addition to this, Minaret Station holds independent concessions to fish on conservation lands covering some four million acres including National Parks and world heritage areas.
Gin-clear water allows early spotting of fish. This clarity however means that whilst anglers can see the fish, the fish can also see the angler. Spot and stalk is the method of choice and by far the most exciting. Anglers often use dry fly, streamer and nymph techniques on the same stretch of water. South Island river fishing opens at the beginning of October and runs through to the end of April.
Minaret Station also provides exciting and unique saltwater fishing opportunities. Deep water bass species including bluenose and grouper offer exhilarating sea fishing to enthusiasts of all abilities. Further south Fiordland’s internationally acclaimed fiords provide airily calm and sheltered conditions for sea fishing. Fiordland or blue cod is found exclusively around New Zealand’s rocky coastlines, and the fiord’s deep and cold waters provide a haven for this territorial fish.
Minaret Station offers a number of chartered sea fishing options on the Southwest Coast, Stewart Island, and in and around Fiordland. Guests have the opportunity to fly by helicopter directly to charter vessels moored up in one of several sounds within Fiordland, or Minaret Station’s own purpose built charter vessel – Storm Jet.
Fly fishing for Kahawai or sea trout is also an exciting option where glacier fed rivers meet the Tasman Sea.
Non fishing companions are welcome to enjoy a wide range of exciting or relaxing activities on offer.
Flight transfer Wanaka to Queenstown – 45 minutes
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.
Your accommodation near Queenstown is at Blanket Bay Lodge, in the picturesque and remote Glenorchy region. Voted one of the world’s best luxury lodges, Blanket Bay is the cherry on the cake as far as South Island fishing lodges go. Situated on a commanding site at the top end of beautiful Lake Wakatipu it enjoys spectacular alpine views and is surrounded by high mountains and deep rugged valleys.
The fishing is excellent, with wild brown and rainbow trout and salmon in the lake and nearby rivers. The lodge is 45 minutes from Queenstown, which is also the nearest airport. In addition to fly-fishing and heli-fishing there is also hiking, skiing and horse riding nearby and the highly regarded Otago wineries are just an hour’s drive away.
Stay 3 nights at Blanket Bay Lodge, Queenstown (extend your stay for more fishing opportunities).
Accommodation: Blanket Bay Lodge
Blanket Bay originally sprung from its owner’s love of fly-fishing. To ensure a magical fishing get a way, everything at Blanket Bay is designed to provide a world-class experience for the most demanding and experienced anglers. Blanket Bay is close to several of New Zealand’s iconic trout fishing rivers (The Greenstone and Caples are only minutes away by helicopter).
Large rivers, slow moving pools, fast runs and riffles, bush clad streams, open river floats, or small mountain lakes provide exciting options for your fishing pleasure. You may fish nearby in local rivers and streams, or the lake edge at Blanket Bay (a 10+ pound trout was caught at the mouth of Stoney Creek, just alongside the Lodge). Alternatively you may prefer to fly fish the lake banks, or the mouth of the rivers that flow into Lake Wakatipu.
Lake Wakatipu is home to Brown and Rainbow trout and land-locked Quinnat Salmon. Fishing season on the rivers runs from November through May. There is excellent nymph fishing during the early season and superb dry fly and nymph fishing during the summer months. Brown and Rainbow trout average more than three pounds, with five to six pound trout not uncommon. Trophy size trout over 10 pounds are more likely in early or late season.
Fishing on Lake Wakatipu is available year round.
The loyal fishing partner can discover endless ways to restore their physical and spiritual well-being. There is nowhere else on Earth where there are so many activities so close by – the country’s best hiking on the Routeburn or Milford Tracks, jet boating and kayaking, 4WD tours, horse riding, art trails and vineyards, plus flight-seeing over the World Heritage Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound. And let’s not forget the numerous international standard golf courses around Queenstown.
As your unforgettable New Zealand fishing trip draws to a close, soak in the views one last time before departing Queenstown at your leisure.
A fishing trip to New Zealand is sure to rank among your very best fishing experiences. Fishing Tips and Tricks in New Zealand.
New Zealand’s crystal-clear lakes and rivers offer excellent freshwater fishing, with abundant rainbow and brown trout as well as salmon on the South Island. In particular, Lake Taupo is world-renowned for its trout fishing.
And with 15,000 kilometres of secluded, idyllic coastline, sea fishing is equally rewarding.
Popular saltwater catches include:
The big game saltwater fishing season runs from December to June. Book a charter to catch marlin, kingfish, yellowfin tuna, and billfish.
Read more details about fishing in New Zealand here.
Contact New Zealand Luxury Escapes for more information or to begin planning your New Zealand fishing trip today.
Posted in: 14 Day Escapes, All Luxury Escapes, Hunting & Fishing, New Zealand
Date: November 26th, 2018, Posted by macstudio
Our New Zealand hunting packages offer the very best luxury hunting lodges, hunting tours, and New Zealand experiences.
Explore the top hunting destinations on the North and South Islands. New Zealand is one of the world’s best hunting destinations, with high success rates and unparalleled scenery. And our New Zealand hunting packages are designed to showcase the best our country has to offer.
In addition, our New Zealand hunting packages are fully customisable. In other words, we recommend using the below itinerary as a starting point to get an idea of what is possible, and from there, we will work with you to craft the ideal custom itinerary.
Our recommended 10 Day New Zealand Hunting Itinerary is as follows:
Read on for full details of our 10 Day New Zealand itinerary.
Flight transfer Auckland to Rotorua – 1.5 hours
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 Rotorua.
Treetops Lodge and Estate is one of New Zealand’s most unique luxury lodge and wilderness experiences, located in the heart of a 2,500 acre carefully managed eco and wilderness park — a New Zealand wildlife safari. Hunting at Treetops is all about the quality of trophies taken in the field. Spot and stalk type of hunting applies. There are six species of deer, pigs and a healthy population of free range pheasants to harvest each year.
Seek adventure, test your skill, and take on the challenge of hunting wild game in its natural habitat. Let the thrill of the hunt overtake you as you stalk your prey through the pristine wilderness and expansive grounds of the estate. Fly fishing its also available, as is heli-fishing.
There are also myriad things to do for non hunters and fishers: eco-tours, mountain biking, heli sightseeing and wine tours, photographic safaris, horse trekking, spa treatments and much more.
Stay 2 nights at Treetops Lodge, Rotorua (extend your stay for a longer hunt).
Accommodation: Treetops Lodge Rotorua
Treetops head gamekeeper and guide Dave is a professional gamekeeper, and believes there is nothing that gives him more pleasure than to take a hunter, whether novice or professional and achieve their trophy animal.
He has extensive experience managing and working on privately owned estates in New Zealand, United Kingdom and the USA – all with an emphasis on the habitat, hunt and game management. Dave holds a Diploma in Game Wildlife and Habitat Management and a National Certificate in Game Keeping and Water Keeping. “To complement a great days hunting – is enjoying a New Zealand wine around the lodge fireplace. This is where lifelong friendships are formed sharing hunting stories.”
Treetops also has its own expediter – John Mitchell. John has been with Treetops Lodge for a number of years and has all the credentials as far as shipping, boxing and delivering trophies to ports all around the world.
Flight Transfer Rotorua to Taupo – 30 minutes or Private Land Transfer – 1 hour
Poronui is the ultimate luxury sporting retreat, a place where you can have fun and relax in the authentic New Zealand countryside. Located in the beautiful Taharua Valley on New Zealand’s spectacular North Island, the estate boasts some of the world’s best wilderness experiences. The scenery is breathtaking, the hospitality is second-to-none, but it is the attention to the little things that makes a stay here truly memorable. Immerse yourself in the lodge with a warm welcome, unforgettable experiences, passionate people, luxury accommodation and gourmet New Zealand cuisine.
The main lodge and seven individually appointed guest cabins have evolved from what was once a rustic fishing camp into one of the world’s finest sporting lodges. Poronui Lodge is the spiritual centre of Poronui. It is here, pre-dawn, that hunters and guides gather in anticipation of the challenges ahead and trophies to be won. After the morning hunt, the lodge hosts a hearty brunch for returning hunters, who can then choose to relax here with a good book or coffee in front of the open fire. In the evening, guests gather here again to share stories over a dinner of outstanding local game expertly prepared in the lodge kitchen, and enjoy the genuine hospitality of Poronui staff.
Stay 4 nights at Poronui Lodge, Taupo (extend your stay for a longer hunt).
Accommodation: Poronui Lodge
As a New Zealand outfitter, Poronui Hunting offers superb trophy Red Stag hunting, along with Fallow, Rusa, Sambar, Chamois, Tahr and their speciality – Sika. You can also hunt wild boar, Arapawa Ram and Feral Goat.
Paddle in streams and crawl around fallen logs to get into the perfect position to take your shot. The terrain is challenging but achievable and the hunt is always exciting. The experienced guides are passionate and knowledgeable and will lead you on the adventure of a lifetime.
Poronui believe the experience of the hunt is just as important as the size of the trophy, and strive to exceed both expectations. Whatever your passion, guests talk of the magic of hunting in New Zealand – the breathtaking locations, the genuine Kiwi warmth, and the camaraderie they share with guides and fellow adventurers.
**Poronui have a range of accommodation options from the luxury hunting lodge to a high country hut and top New Zealand hunting guides. Each property offers different species and hunting conditions. Hunting is primarily spot and stalk and they cater for both bow and rifle hunters.
Flight transfer Taupo to Queenstown – 5 hours (2 flights)
Board a domestic flight from Taupo to Queenstown. Here, you will meet your helicopter transfer to Minaret Lodge near Wanaka.
Wanaka is like no other and is New Zealand’s premier alpine destination. Here you will find stunning glacial lakes, incredible mountain vistas, world class hunting and all manner of outdoor pursuits.
Minaret Station Alpine Lodge is the epitome of comfortable and luxurious accommodation in the wilds of the Southern Alps. Minaret Station is only accessible by helicopter therefore treats guests to an authentic Alpine experience. Framed by the rugged beauty of this secluded mountain landscape, guests will enjoy a level of comfort and style never before available in New Zealand’s wilderness.
Guests staying at Minaret Station’s luxury lodge are hosted either exclusively, or accommodated as part of a group in one of the four luxuriously appointed Alpine Chalets. Impeccable cuisine is central to any luxury vacation experience. Using fresh local produce resident chefs and kitchen staff prepare modern European and Asian Fusion cuisine coupled with an extensive range of local and award winning wines. Guests can choose to dine in the Mountain Kitchen’s dining room, alfresco on the deck or in the privacy of their own chalet.
Stay 3 nights at Minaret Station Alpine Lodge, Wanaka (extend your stay for a longer hunt).
Accommodation: Minaret Station Alpine Lodge
As one of New Zealand’s long established guided hunting businesses, Minaret Station offers a premium guided hunting experience. The Southern Alps are host to an expansive game population. With a temperate climate and in the absence of any natural predators, hunting provides excitement and trophy opportunities whilst also providing an important and essential conservation benefit.
Minaret Station privately owns a 50,000 acre parcel of wilderness, providing guests with exclusive access to prime hunting territory in the Southern Alps. In addition to this, Minaret Station holds independent concessions to hunt on conservation lands covering some four million acres including National Parks.
The region’s terrain is nothing short of dramatic. Gently undulating lowlands are shouldered by steep ridges rising to permanent snow fields. Clearly defined vegetation zones separate densely forested hillsides, sub alpine scrubland and open mountain-tops
A hand picked team of professional and highly experienced guides possess comprehensive local knowledge allowing guests to safely access remote areas of wilderness. All guides are well acquainted with the terrain and game species in New Zealand. Many have also spent numerous seasons guiding internationally, bringing a wealth of knowledge to enhance your experience. They are skilled at assessing a hunters’ personal ability and thus ensuring success. Whether guests are well seasoned and internationally experienced, or looking to pick up a rifle for the first time, the guides have the ability to adapt their expertise accordingly, ensuring the highest level of satisfaction is achieved. Minaret Station guides are also members of the New Zealand Professional Hunting Guides Association and are further trained specifically to exceed industry benchmarks.
Non-hunting companions are welcome to enjoy a wide range of exciting or relaxing activities on offer.
Relax…Heli Ski…Guided Fishing…More Hunting…Heli Adventures
Minaret Station provides New Zealand’s premier private heli-ski experience. Explore hundreds of square kilometers of untracked terrain on an exclusive private heli ski charter. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, if you can ski or snowboard then you can heli-ski.
Minaret Station Heli-Adventures allow guests to experience the otherwise inaccessible breathtaking wilderness of the Southern Alps. The options are endless. From scenic flights to heli-biking.
New Zealand is renowned as a world class fishing destination. Unquestionably Minaret Station is the first choice for guided fishing experiences. Minaret Station offers both freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities within the remote Southern Alps, and off the coastline of New Zealand’s West Coast. A great diversity of wild fish species provides exceptional experiences for anglers of varying abilities.
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.
Experience the best of Queenstown from the comfort of your premium lakefront penthouse at Eichard’s Private Hotel. For those who demand the height of excellence, the penthouse at Eichardt’s is the ultimate in luxury and sophistication. Overlooking the shores of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounds, the penthouse offers pure indulgence. The Penthouse experience commences on arrival. Your dedicated butler will escort you to your rooms, where you will enjoy every luxury, including pre-dinner cocktails served in-suite, Krug Champagne, and an excellent selection of Moet & Hennessy spirits replenished daily. Enjoy daily breakfast prepared by your private chef.
Choose from an array of adventures to finish your vacation on a high note.
Stay 1 night in Queenstown.
Accommodation: Eichardt’s Private Hotel
As your unforgettable holiday draws to a close, soak in the views one last time before departing Queenstown at your leisure.
As you begin planning your New Zealand hunting tour, read our answers to Frequently Asked Questions for more information. In addition, you can find more details about New Zealand hunting and fishing packages here.
If you want more time in New Zealand, we also offer a 14 Day New Zealand Hunting Itinerary.
Contact New Zealand Luxury Escapes today to begin planning the hunting trip of a lifetime.
Posted in: 10 Day Luxury Escapes New Zealand, All Luxury Escapes, Hunting & Fishing, New Zealand
Date: November 26th, 2018, Posted by macstudio
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:
Read on for the full details of our recommended 14 day itinerary for New Zealand travel packages.
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 or 10 minutes by helicopter.
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 a beautiful gourmet breakfast.
Stay 2 nights on Waiheke Island.
Accommodation: The Boatshed Hotel Waiheke Island
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.
Driving time Auckland to Rotorua 3 hours or flight time 30 minutes
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
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.
Following your helicopter flight, experience the highlights and serene lakes around Rotorua on an exclusive sail to secluded alcoves aboard Pure Cruise’s luxury yacht Tiua and bathe in the healing thermal waters of natural hot pools, in secret places known only to locals.
Later discover Rotorua’s captivating geothermal landscapes with colourful sinter terraces, spouting geysers and bubbling mud pools. Or join masterchef Charles Royal on an exclusive Māori food trail and bush tour.
Flight time Rotorua to Nelson 1 hour 15 minutes
Driving time Nelson to Abel Tasman 1 hour or heli transfer 30 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.
Stonefly Lodge has four simply but beautifully appointed guest rooms, all with wide views across the river valley and nearby Kahurangi National Park. All power is generated on site and the lodge has been applauded for its sensitive environmental development and sustainability policy.
The Motueka River is renowned for its trout with some of the country’s highest trout populations; recent drift dives indicate populations of 100-500 trout per kilometre.
The lodge is centred around a high galleried great room with a large double-sided stone fireplace. The main dining area, bar, library-games area, and sunroom are all linked through this main room, providing a fabulous social space to mingle or withdraw, whatever your preference.
Stay 3 nights at Stonefly Lodge, Motueka.
Accommodation: Stonefly Lodge
Enjoy a boat cruise into Abel Tasman National Park, where you can relax on the hot golden sand, enjoy a day walk, or simply remain aboard for a return boat cruise. Take in the natural beauty and enjoy! This trip allows you to explore sections of the Abel Tasman Coast Track; the boat will stop at scenic points along the way where you can get off and walk a section of the track. The boat will then collect you later in the day. You could also just pack a picnic lunch and beach towels and laze on the beach for the day.
Today is yours to unwind, indulge in the facilities and activities on offer at Stonefly Lodge, 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.
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
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.
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
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
Enjoy a relaxing morning after your late night of stargazing. In the late morning, make the scenic drive to Mount Cook Village, where you will venture deep into the wilderness on a helicopter excursion.
Your experience begins with a stunning scenic flight to a secluded location in paradise, where you will relax and savour a gourmet picnic with the finest New Zealand produce. Round off your picnic in paradise with a glass of wine or bubbles while taking in the sublime beauty of Aoraki Mt Cook National Park.
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.
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.
Experience the best of Queenstown from the comfort of your premium lakefront penthouse at Eichard’s Private Hotel. For those who demand the height of excellence, the penthouse at Eichardt’s is the ultimate in luxury and sophistication. Overlooking the shores of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounds, the penthouse offers pure indulgence. The Penthouse experience commences on arrival. Your dedicated butler will escort you to your rooms, where you will enjoy every luxury, including pre-dinner cocktails served in-suite, Krug Champagne, and an excellent selection of Moet & Hennessy spirits replenished daily. Daily breakfast is prepared by your private chef.
Stay 2 nights in Queenstown.
Accommodation: Eichardt’s Private Hotel
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.
As your unforgettable holiday draws to a close, soak in the views one last time before departing Queenstown at your leisure.
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.
Posted in: 14 Day Escapes, All Luxury Escapes, New Zealand
Date: November 25th, 2018, Posted by macstudio
This luxury South Island itinerary for 10 days offers a taste of New Zealand’s vast, untouched wilderness. Though New Zealand is small, this island country is home to a staggering diversity of landscapes, from glaciers and fiords to volcanoes and idyllic beaches.
Our South Island itinerary for 10 days sets visitors amidst some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery. Discover mountains, lakes, fiords, glaciers, and rivers.
For an unparalleled wilderness experience, we recommend the following South Island itinerary for 10 days:
Read on for the full details of our recommended 10 Day South Island Wilderness Itinerary.
Driving time Queenstown to The Lindis 3 hours or heli transfer 20 minutes
When you arrive in Queenstown, make your way to The Lindis, an exclusive wilderness retreat set in the stunning Ahuriri Valley. This iconic luxury lodge has been created for you to relax and unwind while taking in the surrounding idyllic setting. Immerse yourself in the stillness of nature while indulging in modern, sophisticated luxury and enjoying Kiwi hospitality at its best.
The daily menus at The Lindis provide a uniquely New Zealand style of refined cuisine, paying homage to the abundant local produce. Each plate is unique and designed to savour, using only the finest and freshest ingredients New Zealand has on offer. New Zealand wines are paired nightly, and hand-selected world class wines are available from the unparalleled wine cellar.
Stay 2 nights in Ahuriri Valley.
Accommodation: The Lindis
Today is yours to explore the Ahuriri Valley and indulge in any of the many activities on offer. From fly fishing in some of New Zealand’s most celebrated rivers and walking through stunning alpine panoramas to gliding and stargazing, there are countless ways to experience the beauty and solitude of your surroundings.
Driving time The Lindis to Wanaka 2 hours or heli transfer 15 minutes
When you reach the picturesque alpine town of Wanaka, you will be transferred by helicopter to Minaret Station, a secluded alpine lodge accessible only by helicopter. Framed by the rugged beauty of the secluded mountain landscape, Minaret Lodge offers a level of comfort and style never before available in New Zealand’s wilderness.
Included in your stay are a full a la carte breakfast, lunch (picnic or seated), pre-dinner canapés and a gourmet three-course evening meal. Beverages are also part of the experience.
Stay 2 nights in Wanaka.
Accommodation: Minaret Station
Minaret Station allows guests to experience the breathtaking yet otherwise inaccessible wilderness of the Southern Alps. Your options to take in this fantastic landscape are endless. From scenic flights and picnics in secluded alpine meadows to heli hiking and heli biking, the wide range of heli-adventures will help immerse you in your surroundings. Other choices include hunting, fishing, and high country farm tours.
Driving time Wanaka to Te Anau 3.5 hours or heli transfer 45 minutes
Situated at the edge of Fiordland National Park, Te Anau is the gateway to New Zealand’s largest untouched wilderness. The vertical peaks and heavy rainfall have kept this breathtaking region free from human habitation, and the only way to truly experience its majesty is by helicopter.
Start your stay in Fiordland with a visual feast – a three-hour helicopter tour that pays visits to all of the most spectacular destinations in Fiordland. Your exclusive helicopter tour takes in the most spectacular destinations in Fiordland, including Dusky Sound, Doubtful Sound, and the iconic Milford Sound, with three landings along the way to allow you to soak in the captivating scenery. At one of your landing locations, enjoy a gourmet picnic with the finest New Zealand produce and drinks.
Your accommodation tonight is at the well renowned Fiordland Lodge. Set amidst stunning mountain and lake scenery, Fiordland Lodge offers a secluded retreat on the doorstep of the national park. Your stay includes a complimentary mini-bar, pre-dinner canapés, a four course dinner, and breakfast.
Stay 2 nights in Te Anau.
Accommodation: Fiordland Lodge
Experience the finest of Fiordland today with a wilderness adventure. Choose from a day of fly fishing in one of New Zealand’s best trout fishing rivers, a truly unforgettable free dive for crayfish and other prizes off the rich fiords of the west coast, or a leisurely day exploring a high country farm.
Driving time Te Anau to Milford Sound – 2.5 hours
Embark on an unforgettable scenic journey to Milford Sound today. The Milford Road (between Te Anau and Milford) is one of the finest alpine drives in the world. The scenery is exceptional, ranging from broad grassy flats, dense rainforest, and towering mountains through to glacial lakes and alpine herb fields. No other road in Fiordland offers such a diverse glimpse into New Zealand’s alpine zone.
On arrival in Milford, board the Fiordland Jewel, a luxury vessel that will give you an exclusive taste of Milford Sound as you spend a night in the ‘eighth wonder of the world.’ You will be guided by the expert crew, who will share with you the incredible natural wilderness and wildlife, which can include seals, dolphins, and penguins.
Your stay includes an exquisite three-course evening meal as well as a full cooked breakfast. During your immersive Fiordland experience, you will have the chance to explore by kayak or tender boat, and the top-deck hot tub awaits you for a relaxing evening soak.
Stay 1 night in Milford Sound.
Accommodation: The Fiordland Jewel
Driving time Milford Sound to Glenorchy 5 hours or heli transfer 45 minutes
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.
Your accommodation near Queenstown is at Blanket Bay Lodge, in the picturesque and remote Glenorchy region. Voted one of the world’s best luxury lodges, Blanket Bay is nestled amidst the rugged snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. All rooms at Blanket Bay are positioned to take full advantage of the magnificent lake and mountain vistas. Natural materials are showcased throughout, echoing the lodge’s integration and interaction with the environment. Your stay includes breakfast, pre-dinner cocktails and dinner.
Stay 3 nights in Queenstown.
Accommodation: Blanket Bay Lodge
Explore the Queenstown area today on a heli wine tour. You will enjoy a scenic helicopter flight which includes a Queenstown landing high up on the Remarkables Mountain Range for dramatic views overlooking Queenstown.
Land at Peregrine Winery for a complimentary wine tasting in the picturesque Central Otago wine region.
Please enquire for private tasting and tour options.
Today is spent at your leisure, either relaxing at Blanket Bay and perhaps indulging in one of the spa treatments on offer, or adding another activity from the wide array on offer in Queenstown. Options range from guided nature walks and private cruises on Lake Wakatipu to more adrenaline-fuelled activities such as jet-boating and rafting.
As your unforgettable holiday draws to a close, soak in the views one last time before departing Queenstown at your leisure.
Read more about our wilderness itineraries here.
Our South Island wilderness retreats offer an intimate experience of untouched nature, from the rolling tussock lands of Lindis Pass to the still waters of Milford Sound.
Whether you have come for magnificent scenery, a chance to disconnect and rejuvenate, or an opportunity to enjoy outdoor adventures, we will spoil you with the very best New Zealand has to offer.
Contact New Zealand Luxury Escapes today to plan your wilderness experience.
Posted in: 10 Day Luxury Escapes New Zealand, All Luxury Escapes, Featured, South Island, Wilderness
Date: November 25th, 2018, Posted by macstudio
Our 10 Day New Zealand Luxury Itinerary offers the best of luxury travel New Zealand.
This itinerary is carefully designed to visit the top New Zealand luxury destinations while traveling at a comfortable pace. Explore breathtaking natural wonders from the Bay of Islands to Fiordland, staying at exquisite luxury lodges and hotels along the way.
Luxury travel New Zealand rewards visitors with an unparalleled look at the diverse natural beauty and sophistication this country has in abundance.
Our recommended 10 day itinerary for luxury travel New Zealand is as follows:
Read on for the full details of this 10 Day New Zealand Luxury Itinerary.
Flight transfer Auckland to Bay of Islands – 1 hour
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 the Bay of Islands a world renowned holiday destination offering over 144 islands to explore in a sub tropical paradise.
Eagles Nest, your multi-award winning New Zealand luxury hotel & retreat, is set within a 75 acre estate atop its own private ridgeline offering spectacular views of the Bay of Islands. Unlike so many New Zealand luxury hotels, Eagles Nest at Russell in the Bay of Islands also offers the services of its own resident personal trainer and spa therapists ensuring the most indulgent of stays. Four of the five world class villas offers its own private heated horizon edged lap pool.
A team of talented resident personal chefs can spoil you for the evening. They will offer a specially designed menu of your choice featuring freshly caught fish, venison, lamb, crayfish (lobster) and more.
Stay 2 nights in Bay of Islands.
Accommodation: Eagles Nest
A smorgasbord of adventures are at your fingertips. World class big game fishing, scenic cruising, sailing, diving, kayaking, bush walking, mountain biking, helicopter flight seeing, and romantic picnics on your own private island are but some of the many options available from Eagles Nest.
Flight transfer Bay of Islands to Rotorua – 1.5 hours
Rotorua is known for crystal-clear streams and magical forests, bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers and natural hot springs, as well as showcasing our fascinating Maori culture.
Rotorua also offers an adventure scene with an epic network of biking trails, walking trails and adventure activities such as rafting and tree-top zip lining.
Solitaire Lodge Rotorua, one of the first New Zealand luxury lodges, offers secluded luxury accommodation and attentive hosting from a spectacular lakeside location. Renowned for its fine dining, Solitaire Lodge serves contemporary New Zealand cuisine prepared with fresh local produce and complemented by superb wines from selected vineyards.
Your stay at Solitaire Lodge includes complimentary mini bar (alcoholic/non-alcoholic beverages and snacks), pre-dinner drinks and canapés, five course dinner, full country breakfast and light lunch. You will also have use of Lodge dinghies and kayaks.
Stay 2 nights in Rotorua.
Accommodation: Solitaire Lodge
Mid morning, sail to secluded alcoves aboard Pure Cruise’s luxury yacht Tiua and bathe in the healing thermal waters of natural hot pools, in secret places known only to locals.
Mid afternoon join Volcanic Air and 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.
Later, you have the option to join masterchef Charles Royal on an exclusive Māori food trail and bush tour.
Flight transfer Rotorua 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.
You may like to collect a rental car for the South Island section of your journey.
Nestled amidst rugged snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps on the shores of Lake Wakatipu is New Zealand’s finest Lodge – Blanket Bay. Here we celebrate the art of pure relaxation.
In this spectacular corner of New Zealand, discover endless ways to restore your physical and spiritual well-being. There is nowhere else on Earth where there are so many activities so close by – fly-fishing and heli-skiing, the country’s best hiking on the Routeburn or Milford Tracks, jet boating and kayaking, 4WD tours, horse riding, art trails and vineyards, plus flight-seeing over the World Heritage Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound. And let’s not forget the numerous international standard golf courses around Queenstown.
Stay 2 nights in Queenstown.
Accommodation: Blanket Bay Lodge
Today, enjoy an unforgettable helicopter picnic in an alpine wonderland. You will be flown to a favourite Queenstown location – Cecil Peak – where you get to land, relax and enjoy the stunning scenery with a gourmet picnic put together with all the finest New Zealand produce, including wine or bubbles.
You will also get an amazing view of The Remarkables Mountains and a bird’s eye view across Queenstown.
This is the perfect place for proposals, honeymooners or simply taking time out in paradise.
Driving time Queenstown to Te Anau – 2.5 hours
Fiordland is a special part of New Zealand. With dramatic fiords, abundant wildlife, pristine alpine lakes, and New Zealand’s tallest waterfalls, this is a landscape that needs to be seen to be believed.
Te Anau is the perfect base for exploring this untouched wilderness. Set amidst stunning mountain and lake scenery, Fiordland Lodge offers a secluded retreat on the doorstep of the national park. Your stay includes a complimentary mini-bar, pre-dinner canapés, a four course dinner, and breakfast.
Stay 2 nights in Te Anau.
Accommodation: Fiordland Lodge
Departing from a lakeside helicopter pad on the Te Anau lakefront, journey deep into the Fiordland wilderness and discover the treasures of our backyard. Soaring high over the Main Divide with its ever-changing scenery of beech forest, mountains, bright blue alpine lakes, waterfalls and hanging valleys, you’ll love this little-seen part of South-West New Zealand.
Breathe the crisp alpine air when you land on Mount Kidd, a remote, picturesque area complete with inky blue lake. From here, soak up the epic views out over Fiordland’s landscapes. Make sure your phone or camera is charged – this is a scene you’ll want to revisit time and time again!
This flight is 40 minutes in duration, with the option to add a hike to your excursion.
Driving time Te Anau to Queenstown – 2.5 hours
Return to Queenstown before meeting your helicopter transfer to Minaret Station Alpine Lodge.
Wanaka is like no other and is New Zealand’s premier alpine destination. Here you will find stunning glacial lakes, incredible mountain vistas, and all manner of outdoor pursuits.
Minaret Station Alpine Lodge is the epitome of comfort and luxurious accommodation in the wilds of the Southern Alps. Minaret Station is only accessible by helicopter therefore treats guests, to an authentic Alpine experience. Framed by the rugged beauty of this secluded mountain landscape, guests will enjoy a level of comfort and style never before available in New Zealand’s wilderness.
Guests staying at Minaret Station’s luxury lodge are hosted either exclusively, or accommodated as part of a group in one of the four luxuriously appointed Alpine Chalets. Impeccable cuisine is central to any luxury vacation experience. Using fresh local produce resident chefs and kitchen staff prepare modern European and Asian Fusion cuisine coupled with an extensive range of local and award winning wines. Guests can choose to dine in the Mountain Kitchen’s dining room, alfresco on the deck or in the privacy of their own chalet.
Stay 2 nights in Wanaka.
Accommodation: Minaret Lodge
Relax…Heli Ski…Guided Fishing…Guided Hunting…Heli Adventures
Minaret Station provides New Zealand’s premier private heli-ski experience. Explore hundreds of square kilometers of untracked terrain on an exclusive private heli ski charter. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, if you can ski or snowboard then you can heli-ski.
Minaret Station Heli-Adventures allow guests to experience the otherwise inaccessible breathtaking wilderness of the Southern Alps. The options are endless. From scenic flights to heli-biking.
New Zealand is renowned as a world class fishing destination. Unquestionably Minaret Station is the first choice for guided fishing experiences. Minaret Station offers both freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities within the remote Southern Alps, and off the coastline of New Zealand’s West Coast. A great diversity of wild fish species provides exceptional experiences for anglers of varying abilities.
As one of New Zealand’s long established guided hunting businesses, Minaret Station offers a premium guided hunting experience. The Southern Alps are host to an expansive game population. With a temperate climate and in the absence of any natural predators, hunting provides excitement and trophy opportunities whilst also providing an important and essential conservation benefit.
Flight transfer Minaret Station Alpine Lodge to Queenstown – 20 minutes
As your unforgettable holiday draws to a close, soak in the views one last time before departing Queenstown at your leisure.
Our luxury itineraries offer discerning travelers the very best experiences and indulgences for luxury travel New Zealand. In addition, we specialize in designing bespoke holidays to match exactly what you dream of.
We therefore offer a wide range of luxury, from 5-star hotels to exquisite luxury lodges, and from luxury vehicle rentals to helicopter transfers.
If you hope to experience both islands, we also offer a 7 Day New Zealand Luxury Itinerary and a 14 Day New Zealand Luxury Itinerary.
In addition, we offer a range of special interest itineraries, including honeymoon and elopement packages, golf holidays, Lord of the Rings tours, adventure holidays, and more.
Posted in: 10 Day Luxury Escapes New Zealand, All Luxury Escapes, New Zealand
Date: November 25th, 2018, Posted by macstudio
Our New Zealand luxury holidays open up a world of breathtaking views, relaxation, and indulgence. If you have only seven days in New Zealand, planning is of the utmost importance. Our recommended 7 Day New Zealand Luxury Itinerary packs in a range of top New Zealand experiences while allowing time to unwind and rejuvenate.
In our New Zealand luxury holidays, we include the very best hotels and luxury lodges as a way to demonstrate the very best on offer. However, you may wish to choose 5-star city hotels or luxury holiday homes and villas for a different experience. Your personal travel consultant will help determine which option is best suited to your holiday.
Our recommended 7 Day New Zealand Luxury Itinerary is as follows:
Read on for the full details of this luxury holiday package.
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 or 10 minutes by helicopter.
The Boatshed Hotel will be your haven for the night, a hip small luxury hotel sitting 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.
Stay 1 night in Waiheke Island.
Accommodation: The Boatshed Hotel Waiheke Island
Make your way back to Auckland by boat or helicopter, before boarding a domestic flight to Rotorua.
Flight time Auckland Rotorua – 1 hour
Rotorua is known for crystal-clear streams and magical forests, bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers and natural hot springs, as well as showcasing our fascinating Maori culture.
Rotorua also offers an adventure scene with an epic network of biking trails, walking trails and adventure activities such as rafting and tree-top zip lining.
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 lodge is the perfect place to simply relax, indulge and rejuvenate. Easy lake access allows exploration of surrounding waters with secluded private bays, deep water swimming and shoreline trails through native bush to explore on foot. From the Lodge’s jetty you have a choice of boating options including motorised dinghies and kayaks.
Stay 2 nights in Rotorua.
Accommodation: Solitaire Lodge
Mid morning, sail to secluded alcoves aboard Pure Cruise’s luxury yacht Tiua and bathe in the healing thermal waters of natural hot pools, in secret places known only to locals.
Mid afternoon join Volcanic Air and 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.
Later, you have the option to join masterchef Charles Royal on an exclusive Māori food trail and bush tour.
Featured: Lift off to Mt Tarawera
Flight time Rotorua 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.
Your accommodation in Queenstown is at Matakauri Lodge, spectacularly situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Matakauri’s take on luxury is understated and welcoming, with the stunning mountain landscape taking the place of honour. Voted one of the top five lodges in New Zealand and Australia, Matakauri is the ultimate sanctuary as well as a convenient base for exploring the wonders of southern New Zealand. Your stay includes pre-dinner drinks and canapés, a multi-course dinner, and daily breakfast.
Stay 4 nights in Queenstown.
Accommodation: Matakauri Lodge
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.
Featured: Milford Sound
Explore the Queenstown area today on a private gourmet wine tour that visits some of New Zealand’s most memorable vineyards. This intimate experience will showcase the best of Central Otago, with tastings at 4 vineyards and a gourmet lunch with five stunning dishes cooked in wine barrels and paired with matching wines. Other highlights include a tour through New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave and a cheese and wine presentation at one of the wineries.
Today, enjoy an unforgettable helicopter picnic in a spectacular alpine wonderland. You will be flown to a favourite Queenstown location – Cecil Peak, where you get to land, relax and enjoy the stunning scenery with a gourmet picnic put together with all the finest New Zealand produce, including wine or bubbles.
You will also get an amazing view of The Remarkables Mountains and a bird’s eye view across Queenstown.
This is the perfect place for proposals, honeymooners or simply taking time out in paradise.
Featured: Helicopter Picnic Experience
As your unforgettable holiday draws to a close, soak in the views one last time before departing Queenstown at your leisure.
If you wish to spend longer in New Zealand, read about our 10 Day New Zealand Luxury Itinerary or our 14 Day New Zealand Luxury Itinerary.
We also offer a range of alternative 7-day escapes, from North and South Island itineraries to special interest tours. As you begin planning your New Zealand luxury holiday, you may wish to find inspiration on our travel blog.
Posted in: 7 Day Escapes, All Luxury Escapes, Featured, New Zealand
Date: November 23rd, 2018, Posted by macstudio
Explore the very best of the North Island with our luxury New Zealand tours. From private beaches to luxury lodges, discover a world of sophisticated splendor.
Our recommended luxury New Zealand tours are designed to serve as a starting point as you begin to plan your travels. From there, we will work with you to customise your chosen itinerary until it suits exactly what you imagined. Alternatively, we can work with you to design a bespoke itinerary if you have an idea of what you wish to include.
For a 10 Day North Island Luxury Itinerary, we recommend the following:
Read on for full details of our 10 Day North Island Luxury Itinerary.
Flight transfer Auckland to Northland – 1 hour
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 Northland a subtropical wonderland of islands, marine life, kauri forests and Maori myths and legends.
The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs is where you will spend the next three days being immersed in relaxation. The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs is set on 6000 acres and affords spectacular 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean, giving access to three private beaches.
Named the number one resort in Australia and New Zealand by Travel + Leisure, Kauri Cliffs is a leisure travellers dream. Activities abound with the David Harman-designed golf course, immersive local heritage tours, bountiful fishing, and bush walks, mountain biking, quad biking and a spa sanctuary hidden within native forest.
Stay 3 nights in the Northland.
Accommodation: The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs
A day of relaxation and rejuvenation.
The par 72 championship golf course measures 7,119 yards / 6,510 metres and offers five sets of tees to challenge every skill level. Fifteen holes view the Pacific Ocean, six of which are played alongside cliffs which plunge to the sea.
The Spa is nestled at the edge of a Totara forest, overlooking a verdant fern glen and winding stream. Each treatment room, including the couple’s room, has floor to ceiling views and opens onto a private outdoor patio. The spa has a sauna, jacuzzi spa pool, indoor heated lap pool and fitness centre.
One of the many fine dining options at the lodge will make the perfect end to your day.
A day of adventure exploring Northland, fish, heritage, surf, fly, picnic, walk…
Fishing is a religion around these parts. Join a local guide at one of the beaches on the property and test your skill at hooking a snapper or kahawai (similar to a blue fish). Bring your catch back to the lodge and the chef will prepare it for your dinner.
The Kauri Cliffs Guided Heritage Discovery tour will give you unparalleled insight into New Zealand’s complex identity. Journey through time as your experienced guide unravels the rich and diverse tapestry of history and culture that all took place at this vast property.
Surf some of New Zealand’s most beautiful untouched scenery including Kauri Cliffs. It is as though nature designed the Northland coastline with surfers in mind. Tiny coves, long sandy beaches, river mouths, point breaks, sandbars and reefs . . . all within a short drive. Enjoy a two-hour beginner’s lesson at Kauri Cliffs or an all-day Surf-safari of Northland beaches.
Discover the rich and diverse beauty of the Bay of Islands from the perspective only possible by air with a Helicopter Bay of Islands Discovery Tour. Fly out to the world famous “Hole in the Rock”and take a bird’s eye view of Russell, Paihia & Waitangi townships.
Flight transfer Northland to Rotorua 1.5 hours
Rotorua is known for crystal-clear streams and magical forests, bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers and natural hot springs, as well as showcasing our fascinating Maori culture.
Rotorua also offers an adventure scene with an epic network of biking trails, walking trails and adventure activities such as rafting and tree-top zip lining.
Your stay at Treetops Lodge and Estate will indulge your senses and rejuvenate your soul, brining you back to nature. The lodge is nestled in 2,500 acres of private native forest and pristine wilderness. Immerse yourself in the pulse of the land by walking, biking or horseback and explore the lush forest trails, quite woodland glads and rolling grasslands. Wilderness hunting and fishing experiences are also on hand or refresh and unwind at the wilderness spa offering luxurious wellness treatments.
Stay 2 nights in Rotorua.
Accommodation: Treetops Lodge Rotorua
Sail to secluded alcoves aboard Pure Cruise’s luxury yacht Tiua and bathe in the healing thermal waters of natural hot pools, in secret places known only to locals.
Fly to Mt Tarawera by helicopter with Volcanic Air, stand on the crater’s edge of this sacred mountain with sweeping panoramic views and experience a thrilling walk along the crater’s edge.
Later, discover Rotorua’s captivating geothermal landscapes with colourful sinter terraces, spouting geysers and bubbling mud pools. Or join masterchef Charles Royal on an exclusive Māori food trail and bush tour.
Featured: Pure Cruise Lake Rotoiti
Flight transfer Rotorua to Taupo – 30 minutes or Land transfer – 1 hour
Taupo is home to three of New Zealand’s iconic luxury lodges, world-class fly-fishing experiences and two of the country’s top 10 golf courses.
Immerse yourself in style on the shores of the Waikato River at Huka Lodge, long considered one of the top retreats in the world. Relaxation will come easy as you soak up the serenity with a glass of New Zealand wine expertly paired with cuisine by executive chef, Paul Froggatt. There are over 20 private dining options, from an intimate riverside pavilion to the atmospheric underground wine cellar.
For the active relaxer, what better way to experience the vast natural landscape than a stay at Poronui, the ultimate luxury wilderness retreat hidden in the secluded Taharua Valley. Take a scenic helicopter flight deep into the mountains and fine-tune your casting skills with a skilled fly-fishing guide.
If golf is your passion, you will find two premier golf clubs to explore: Wairakei Golf and Sanctuary and The Kinloch Club. Stay at The Lodge at Kinloch, an architecturally designed lodge within the tranquil grounds of the golf course, surrounded by rugged farmland and stunning panoramic views of the Lake.
Stay 2 nights in Taupo.
Accommodation: Huka Lodge Taupo or Poronui Lodge or The Lodge at Kinloch
Featured: Poronui Lodge Taupo
Today is spent at your leisure, either relaxing at your luxury lodge of choice, or exploring what Taupo has to offer.
Visit the Huka Falls, where you can witness the phenomenon of natural hydro power with more than 220,000 litres of water per second barreling over an 11 meter high waterfall. Take a kayak or boat tour around the scenic Western Bays of Lake Taupō to see the huge Māori rock carving at Mine Bay. Get active and hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing with a private guide, often described as New Zealand’s greatest day walk; lava flows, an active crater, steam vents, emerald-coloured lakes and magnificent views combine to make this an unforgettable walking journey. Or fuel your adventurous side by skydiving, bungy jumping, jet boating or rafting.
Featured: Privately Guided Tongariro Alpine Crossing Hike
Flight transfer Taupo to Cape Kidnappers – 40 minutes or Land transfer – 2.5 hours
Hawke’s Bay is among New Zealand’s leading producers of wine; notably red wines – cabernet sauvignon, merlot and syrah – and stunning chardonnays. It is also New Zealand’s Art Deco capital, with the cities of Napier and Hastings rebuilt in the architectural styles of the time following the devastating 1931 earthquake.
Notable landmarks include Cape Kidnappers, home to the world’s largest mainland colony of gannets; Lake Waikaremoana, home to one of New Zealand’s nine Great Walks; and Te Mata Peak, with its 360 degree views of Hawke’s Bay and spectacular walking tracks.
The Farm at Cape Kidnappers, your luxury lodge for the next two nights, is one of the world’s most extraordinary luxury destinations, set on a 6,000 acre sheep and cattle farm with breathtaking views over the Pacific.
Honoured by Conde Naste Traveller’s Gold List 2017, The Farm exudes character and comfort. With 24 ultra-cosy and spacious cottage suites and a four-bedroom Owner’s Cottage – all with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean – a stay at the Relais & Chateaux Cape Kidnappers is truly “farm luxe” at its best.
Stay 2 nights in Cape Kidnappers.
Accommodation: The Farm at Cape Kidnappers
Leisure opportunities abound with a par 71 championship golf course designed by Tom Doak, luxurious spa facility, Kiwi Discovery walks where guests can interact with this precious native bird, and adventurous Can Am tours to the outreaches of Cape Kidnappers station.
Flight transfer Hawkes Bay to Auckland – 1.5 hours
Finish your vacation in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city. Spend the afternoon relaxing in the city and sampling the exciting culinary scene. For more adventurous options venture to wild west coast beaches, namely Muriwai Beach or Piha, where the Tasman Sea meets long, vast stretches of black sand. Or visit nearby Rangitoto Island a dormant volcanic cone that sits just off the coast from the central city.
Stay 1 night in Auckland.
Accommodation: Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour
As your unforgettable holiday draws to a close, soak in the views one last time before departing Auckland at your leisure.
We also offer a 7 Day North Island Luxury Itinerary and a 14 Day North Island Luxury Itinerary.
Alternatively, explore our full range of luxury New Zealand tours. We offer special interest tours, South Island holidays, and more.
As we begin to customize your New Zealand vacation package, choose from a range of accommodation that includes luxury lodges on the North and South Island, 5-star hotels, wilderness lodges, luxury holiday homes and villas, and wellness retreats.
In addition, choose whether you prefer to rent a luxury vehicle, travel with a private guide, or use air transfers between each destination.
Finally, you have the option to change the experiences, destinations, and scheduling of our luxury New Zealand tours.
Contact New Zealand Luxury Escapes today to begin planning your North Island luxury holiday.
Posted in: 10 Day Luxury Escapes New Zealand, All Luxury Escapes, North Island
Date: November 23rd, 2018, Posted by macstudio
Plan an unforgettable all inclusive holiday to New Zealand with our 14 Day North Island Luxury Itinerary.
This itinerary samples the very best of the North Island, from private beaches and helicopter tours to luxury lodges and wine tours.
14 days is the perfect length for a relaxing all inclusive holiday to New Zealand, while still allowing time to see the most captivating sights on the North Island.
In addition, our recommended itinerary is fully customizable. We partner with every luxury travel provider in New Zealand, so we can book any luxury hotel or lodge in the country or arrange any tours and excursions that catch your interest.
As a starting point, we recommend the following 14 Day North Island All Inclusive Holiday to New Zealand:
Read on for full details of the 14 Day North Island Luxury Itinerary.
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 or 10 minutes by helicopter.
The Boatshed Hotel will be your haven for two nights, a hip small luxury hotel sitting 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.
Stay 2 nights in Waiheke Island.
Accommodation: The Boatshed Hotel Waiheke Island
Wake up to glistening sea views and gentle bird song. If you are feeling energised take a morning stroll to start your day, exploring the island’s trails which meander along cliff tops, down to beaches and into 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.
Driving time Auckland to Bay of Islands 3.5 hours or flight time 1 hour
Your next destination is the Bay of Islands, a world renowned holiday destination offering over 144 islands to explore in a sub tropical paradise.
Eagles Nest, your multi-award winning New Zealand luxury hotel & retreat, is set within a 75 acre estate atop its own private ridgeline offering spectacular views of the Bay of Islands. Unlike so many New Zealand luxury hotels, Eagles Nest at Russell in the Bay of Islands also offers the services of its own resident personal trainer and spa therapists ensuring the most indulgent of stays. Four of the five world class villas offers its own private heated horizon edged lap pool.
A team of talented resident personal chefs can spoil you for the evening. They will offer a specially designed menu of your choice featuring freshly caught fish, venison, lamb, crayfish (lobster) and more.
Stay 2 nights in Bay of Islands.
Accommodation: Eagles Nest
A smorgasbord of adventures are at your fingertips. World class big game fishing, scenic cruising, sailing, diving, kayaking, bush walking, mountain biking, helicopter flight seeing, and romantic picnics on your own private island are but some of the many options available from Eagles Nest.
Driving time Bay of Islands to Auckland 3.5 hours or flight time 1 hour
Stop off in Auckland City for an overnight stay. Auckland, a buzzing urban hub nestled between two contrasting coastlines offers an exhilarating mix of natural wonders and urban adventures.
Spend the afternoon relaxing in the city and sampling the exciting culinary scene. Venture to wild west coast beaches, namely Muriwai Beach and Piha, where the Tasman Sea meets long, vast stretches of black sand. Or visit nearby Rangitoto Island a dormant volcanic cone that sits just off the coast from the central city – take a short ferry ride from the city to walk or do a guided tour to the summit for spectacular views.
Stay 1 night in Auckland.
Accommodation: Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour
Driving time Auckland to Rotorua 3 hours or flight time 2 hours
Rotorua is known for crystal-clear streams and magical forests, bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers and natural hot springs, as well as showcasing our fascinating Maori culture.
Rotorua also offers an adventure scene with an epic network of biking trails, walking trails and adventure activities such as rafting and tree-top zip lining.
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
Sail to secluded alcoves aboard Pure Cruise’s luxury yacht Tiua and bathe in the healing thermal waters of natural hot pools, in secret places known only to locals.
Fly to Mt Tarawera by helicopter with Volcanic Air, stand on the crater’s edge of this sacred mountain with sweeping panoramic views and experience a thrilling walk along the crater’s edge.
Later, you have the option to discover Rotorua’s captivating geothermal landscapes with colourful sinter terraces, spouting geysers and bubbling mud pools. Or join masterchef Charles Royal on an exclusive Māori food trail and bush tour.
Featured: Pure Cruise Lake Rotoiti
Driving time Rotorua to Taupo 1 hour or flight time 20 minutes
Taupo is home to three of New Zealand’s iconic luxury lodges, world-class fly-fishing experiences and two of the country’s top 10 golf courses.
Immerse yourself in style on the shores of the Waikato River at Huka Lodge, long considered one of the top retreats in the world. Relaxation will come easy as you soak up the serenity with a glass of New Zealand wine expertly paired with cuisine by executive chef, Paul Froggatt. There are over 20 private dining options, from an intimate riverside pavilion to the atmospheric underground wine cellar.
For the active relaxer, what better way to experience the vast natural landscape than a stay at Poronui, the ultimate luxury wilderness retreat hidden in the secluded Taharua Valley. Take a scenic helicopter flight deep into the mountains and fine-tune your casting skills with a skilled fly-fishing guide.
If golf is your passion, you will find two premier golf clubs to explore: Wairakei Golf and Sanctuary and The Kinloch Club. Stay at The Lodge at Kinloch, an architecturally designed lodge within the tranquil grounds of the golf course, surrounded by rugged farmland and stunning panoramic views of the Lake.
Stay 2 nights in Taupo.
Accommodation: Huka Lodge Taupo or Poronui Lodge or The Lodge at Kinloch
Today is spent at your leisure, either relaxing at your luxury lodge of choice, or exploring what Taupo has to offer.
Visit the Huka Falls, where you can witness the phenomenon of natural hydro power with more than 220,000 litres of water per second barreling over an 11 meter high waterfall. Take a kayak or boat tour around the scenic Western Bays of Lake Taupō to see the huge Māori rock carving at Mine Bay. Get active and hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing with a private guide. This is often described as New Zealand’s greatest day walk; lava flows, an active crater, steam vents, emerald-coloured lakes and magnificent views combine to make this an unforgettable walking journey. Or fuel your adventurous side by skydiving, bungy jumping, jet boating or rafting.
Featured: Privately Guided Tongariro Alpine Crossing Hike
Driving time Taupo to Cape Kidnappers 3 hours or flight time 1 hour
Hawke’s Bay is among New Zealand’s leading producers of wine; notably red wines – cabernet sauvignon, merlot and syrah – and stunning chardonnays. It is also New Zealand’s Art Deco capital, with the cities of Napier and Hastings rebuilt in the architectural styles of the time following the devastating 1931 earthquake.
Notable landmarks include Cape Kidnappers, home to the world’s largest mainland colony of gannets; Lake Waikaremoana, home to one of New Zealand’s nine Great Walks; and Te Mata Peak, with its 360 degree views of Hawke’s Bay and spectacular walking tracks.
The Farm at Cape Kidnappers, your luxury lodge for the next two nights, is one of the world’s most extraordinary luxury destinations, set on a 6,000 acre sheep and cattle farm with breathtaking views over the Pacific.
Honoured by Conde Naste Traveller’s Gold List 2017, The Farm exudes character and comfort. With 24 ultra-cosy and spacious cottage suites and a four-bedroom Owner’s Cottage – all with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean – a stay at the Relais & Chateaux Cape Kidnappers is truly “farm luxe” at its best.
Stay 2 nights in Cape Kidnappers.
Accommodation: The Farm at Cape Kidnappers
Leisure opportunities abound with a par 71 championship golf course designed by Tom Doak, luxurious spa facility, Kiwi Discovery walks where guests can interact with this precious native bird to New Zealand, and adventurous Can Am tours to the outreaches of Cape Kidnappers station.
Driving time Cape Kidnappers to Wairarapa 4 hours or flight time 1 hour
A rural area with an off-the-beaten-track charm, Wairarapa offers travellers a wide range of experiences. Martinborough is the centre of the local wine industry, while Greytown has architectural charm.
Cape Palliser is worth a visit; on your way you’ll pass through the tiny fishing village of Ngawi where you’ll see a colourful array of old bulldozers and tractors parked on the beach. The fur seal colony at the cape is the North Island’s largest. Climb the 250 steps to the Cape Palliser lighthouse for rewarding views across the ocean.
Nestled between the foothills of the Rimutaka Mountain range and the clifftops above the dramatic Palliser Bay, Wharekauhau Country Estate is located at the heart of one of the most spectacular farms in the world. Built along the lines of an Edwardian country manner, Wharekauhau Country Estate cuts an elegant figure as it presides over 3,000 acres of rolling pastureland.
The main lodge consists of a large country kitchen, wood-burning open fireplaces, formal dining room, wine cellar, games room, intimate library, heated indoor swimming pool, gymnasium and plenty of winter snugs in which to cosy up with a good book. In keeping with the luxury farm stay New Zealand experience, it wouldn’t be complete without farm to table dining.
Stay 2 nights in Wairarapa.
Accommodation: Wharekauhau Country Estate
With 5,500 acres of private land including ancient forests, peaceful lakes, rivers, and a wild and rugged coast, guests are spoilt for choice when it comes to a route for walking, mountain biking, or ATV quad bike adventures.
Clay target shooting is available at Wharekauhau’own clay-target field. A full-size English croquet lawn awaits you on the upper-courtyard lawn. Just opposite the herb and strawberry garden is the all-weather surface tennis court. Or slip into the heated, 24 metre-long swimming pool for a refreshing swim in any season.
The bountiful coastline along Palliser Bay offers a variety of interesting and edible fish. Discover the best spots to fish with professional instruction. Alternatively there is complimentary use of fishing equipment for those wishing to fish without a guide.
Driving time Wairarapa to Wellington 1.5 hours or flight time 30 minutes
Wellington, New Zealand, was recently named “the coolest little capital in the world” by Lonely Planet. Surrounded by nature and fuelled by creative energy, Wellington is a compact city with a powerful mix of culture, history, nature and cuisine. Fuel your visit with strong coffee and world-class craft beer – Wellingtonians are masters of fine dining, with plenty of great restaurants to choose from.
Relax at Oriental Bay, Wellington’s golden-sand inner-city beach and delve into the many museums, art galleries and theatre shows that make up the city’s pulsing cultural scene.
Stay 1 night in Wellington
Accommodation: Bolton Hotel
As your unforgettable holiday draws to a close, soak in the views one last time before departing Wellington at your leisure. Option to catch a domestic flight from Wellington to Auckland to connect to your international flight.
A luxury all inclusive holiday to New Zealand with New Zealand Luxury Escapes includes:
In addition, many luxury lodges include all meals for a truly all-inclusive luxury travel experience.
When planning your all inclusive holiday to New Zealand, you have many options.
Choose 5-star hotels, luxury lodges (North and South Island), wilderness lodges, wellness retreats, or luxury holiday homes and villas. For an affordable luxury holiday, 5-star hotels offer convenience and superb comfort. On the other end, luxury lodges create an unforgettable all-inclusive experience, often nestled within a picturesque natural setting.
You also have the option to choose different levels of accommodation for different destinations. For instance, you may wish to sample one of the country’s top luxury lodges while staying in convenient 5-star hotels elsewhere.
Choose from any of a vast range of activities on offer in New Zealand, or select more exclusive experiences such as helicopter sightseeing and private tours.
For your luxury transportation, choose from the following options:
We also offer a 7 Day North Island Luxury Itinerary and a 10 Day North Island Luxury Itinerary.
Otherwise, you may wish to look through our full range of luxury itineraries. We offer special interest tours, honeymoon and elopement packages, and much more.
Posted in: 14 Day Escapes, All Luxury Escapes, North Island
Date: November 22nd, 2018, Posted by macstudio
New Zealand Luxury Escapes is committed to offering the very best New Zealand luxury vacations. Our team combines expertise, personalized service, and attention to detail to create unforgettable luxury experiences.
Our New Zealand luxury vacations are fully customisable, and most travelers choose to work alongside a personal travel consultant to design a bespoke itinerary. However, we have designed a range of sample itineraries to showcase the best New Zealand has to offer.
For a 10 day luxury Christchurch to Queenstown road trip, we recommend the following itinerary:
Read on for the full details of this 10 Day South Island Luxury Itinerary.
Your exclusive New Zealand experience begins in Christchurch, the perfect gateway to the South Island. Spend the afternoon relaxing in the city and sampling the exciting culinary scene, or venture to Akaroa to visit wineries and the Barry’s Bay Cheesery.
Stay 1 night in Christchurch.
Accommodation: The George Hotel
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
Enjoy a relaxing morning after your late night of stargazing. In the late morning, make the scenic drive to Mount Cook Village, where you will venture deep into the wilderness on a helicopter excursion.
Your experience begins with a stunning scenic flight to a secluded location in paradise, where you will relax and savour a gourmet picnic with the finest New Zealand produce. Round off your picnic in paradise with a glass of wine or bubbles while taking in the sublime beauty of Aoraki Mt Cook National Park.
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.
Driving time Lakestone Lodge to Wanaka – 3 hours
Journey over the Lindis Pass today as you travel from the Mackenzie Basin to Central Otago. Wanaka marks your arrival into the Queenstown Lakes region, New Zealand’s premier alpine destination. Here you will find stunning glacial lakes, incredible mountain vistas, and all manner of outdoor pursuits.
Escape the bustle of town at Mahu Whenua, a ridgeline homestead and eco sanctuary. This luxurious high country homestead offers total privacy, unforgettable experiences, and exquisite food and wine in a setting which spans over 55,000 hectares of majestic natural beauty. Your accommodation includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, morning and afternoon tea, pre-dinner canapés, refreshments, picnics, and premium wine and other beverages.
Stay 2 nights in Wanaka.
Accommodation: Mahu Whenua
Explore your surrounds at Mahu Whenua today, with the option to enjoy the Homestead facilities, which include two open fireplaces, a large open living area with expansive views, a media & games room, a library, a pool table, an outdoor spa pool, a sheltered swimming pool, and a large deck that makes the most of the incredible location.
You could also indulge in the activities in offer around Wanaka, from hiking in Mt Aspiring National Park to kayaking on Lake Wanaka and touring the wineries of Central Otago. Heli-accessed hiking, farm tours, and winery tours are also on offer.
Driving time Wanaka to Te Anau – 3.5 hours
Fiordland is a special part of New Zealand. With dramatic fiords, abundant wildlife, pristine alpine lakes, and New Zealand’s tallest waterfalls, this is a landscape that needs to be seen to be believed.
Te Anau is the perfect base for exploring this untouched wilderness. Set amidst stunning mountain and lake scenery, Fiordland Lodge offers a secluded retreat on the doorstep of the national park. Your stay includes a complimentary mini-bar, pre-dinner canapés, a four course dinner, and breakfast.
Stay 2 nights in Te Anau.
Accommodation: Fiordland Lodge
Departing from a lakeside helicopter pad on the Te Anau lakefront, journey deep into the Fiordland wilderness and discover the treasures of our backyard. Soaring high over the Main Divide with its ever-changing scenery of beech forest, mountains, bright blue alpine lakes, waterfalls and hanging valleys, you’ll love this little-seen part of South-West New Zealand.
Breathe the crisp alpine air when you land on Mount Kidd, a remote, picturesque area complete with inky blue lake. From here, soak up the epic views out over Fiordland’s landscapes. Make sure your phone or camera is charged – this is a scene you’ll want to revisit time and time again!
This flight is 40 minutes in duration, with the option to add a hike to your excursion.
Driving time Te Anau to Queenstown – 2.5 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.
Your accommodation in Queenstown is at Hulbert House, regarded as one of the most beautiful luxury boutique hotels that Queenstown has to offer, Hulbert House provides both luxury accommodation in Queenstown and a luxury experience suitable for all discerning travellers. Situated just a short walk from Queenstown’s vibrant centre, Hulbert House is imbued with a sense of serenity and historic elegance. Your accommodation includes breakfast, refreshments, pre-dinner drinks and canapés, and personal concierge service.
Stay 3 nights in Queenstown.
Accommodation: Hulbert House Queenstown
Explore the Queenstown area today on a heli wine tour. You will enjoy a scenic helicopter flight which includes a Queenstown landing high up on the Remarkables Mountain Range for dramatic views overlooking Queenstown.
Your guide will meet you at the Bannockburn vineyard to begin your private, chauffeured journey through Cromwell, Bannockburn and the Land at Peregrine Winery for a complimentary wine tasting in the picturesque Central Otago wine region.
Please enquire for private tasting and tour options.
Today is spent at your leisure, either relaxing at Hulbert House and perhaps indulging in one of the spa treatments on offer, or adding another activity from the wide array on offer in Queenstown. Options range from hot air ballooning, guided nature walks, and private cruises on Lake Wakatipu to more adrenaline-fuelled activities such as jet-boating and rafting.
As your unforgettable holiday draws to a close, soak in the views one last time before departing Queenstown at your leisure.
The above itinerary follows a comfortable pace while visiting many of the top destinations of the South Island. Highlights include:
In addition, this South Island luxury holiday includes stays at many of New Zealand’s most sumptuous luxury lodges, such as Matakauri Lodge and Mahu Whenua.
Of course, our New Zealand luxury vacations are fully customisable, so you can modify this itinerary as much as you wish. For example, change your accommodation level to 5-star hotels for a more affordable luxury package, or add sightseeing experiences based on your preferences.
Yes. It takes approximately 6.5 hours to drive from Christchurch to Queenstown. However, we recommend staying one night along the way to break up the drive. This also allows more time to explore the highlights of the Mackenzie Basin, which include Lake Tekapo and Aoraki/Mt Cook.
This itinerary includes a stay along the shores of Lake Pukaki, looking out towards Aoraki/Mt Cook. However, other popular places to spend the night include Lake Tekapo, Mt Cook Village, and The Lindis Luxury Lodge.
We offer a range of South Island luxury vacation packages. You may wish to consider our 7 Day South Island Luxury Itinerary or our 14 Day South Island Luxury Itinerary. In addition, you will find a range of special interest holidays, including honeymoon and elopement packages and luxury adventure tours.
Posted in: 10 Day Luxury Escapes New Zealand, All Luxury Escapes, South Island
Date: November 22nd, 2018, Posted by macstudio
Our New Zealand vacation packages are carefully designed to take advantage of the best luxury experiences and accommodation the country has to offer.
With our 7 Day North Island Luxury Itinerary, visit boutique wine regions, explore the geothermal landscape by helicopter and enjoy stunning lakeside townships with hiking and boating on offer.
In addition, stay at a number of New Zealand’s most renowned luxury lodges. The North Island is home to several highly acclaimed lodges, including Huka Lodge. We can also customise our New Zealand vacation packages to include 5-star hotels or luxury holiday homes and villas.
Our 7 Day North Island Luxury Itinerary is as follows:
Read on for more details on this luxury New Zealand North Island itinerary for 7 days.
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 40 minutes from downtown Auckland by boat or 10 minutes by helicopter.
Stay at The Boatshed, offering chic luxury Waiheke accommodation, sitting just above the sun-drenched bay and white sandy beaches of Oneroa. Experience designer luxury hotel suites, each totally private with panoramic ocean views. Private all day dining for hotel guests is a wonderful way to make the most of the hotel’s beautiful design, architecture, art and the local surrounds, as well as the beautiful bay and ocean views. Walk on the beach, read a book, relax and be pampered.
Stay 2 nights in Waiheke Island.
Accommodation: The Boatshed Hotel Waiheke Island
Wake up to glistening sea views and gentle bird song. If you are feeling energised take a morning stroll to start your day, exploring the island’s trails which meander along cliff tops, down to beaches and into 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.
Driving time Auckland to Rotorua 3 hours or flight time 2 hours
Rotorua is known for crystal-clear streams and magical forests, bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers and natural hot springs, as well as showcasing our fascinating Maori culture.
Rotorua also offers an adventure scene with an epic network of biking trails, walking trails and adventure activities such as rafting and tree-top zip lining.
Unwind at Solitaire Lodge, one of New Zealand’s premiere luxury lodges. Set in lush forest with a volcanic backdrop, Solitaire Lodge enjoys breathtaking views over Lake Tarawera and is a highlight. The subtle design brings the outdoors in, inviting you to unwind and soak up the peace and quiet of this tranquil setting. While you are located within easy access of the multitude of activities on offer in Rotorua, the lodge is also the perfect place to simply relax, indulge, and rejuvenate. During your stay, take part in the daily changing menus that showcase the seasonal highlights of the region. Includes pre-dinner drinks and canapés, a five course evening meal, a complimentary mini bar, an extensive breakfast and a light lunch.
Stay 2 nights in Rotorua.
Accommodation: Solitaire Lodge Rotorua
Fly to Mt Tarawera by helicopter with Volcanic Air, stand on the crater’s edge of this sacred mountain with sweeping panoramic views and experience a thrilling walk along the crater’s edge.
Later, discover Rotorua’s captivating geothermal landscapes with colourful sinter terraces, spouting geysers and bubbling mud pools. Or learn about our history and Maori culture.
Driving time Rotorua to Taupo 1 hour or flight time 20 minutes
Taupo is home to two of New Zealand’s iconic luxury lodges, world-class fly-fishing experiences and two of the country’s top 10 golf courses.
Immerse yourself in style on the shores of the Waikato River at Huka Lodge, long considered one of the top retreats in the world. Huka Lodge is set among established gardens along the banks of the surging Waikato River near Lake Taupō on New Zealand’s North Island. Relaxation will come easy as you soak up the serenity with a glass of New Zealand wine expertly paired with cuisine by your executive chef. There are over 20 private dining options, from an intimate riverside pavilion to the atmospheric underground wine cellar.
For the active relaxer, what better way to experience the vast natural landscape than a stay at Poronui, the ultimate luxury wilderness retreat hidden in the secluded Taharua Valley. Take a scenic helicopter flight deep into the mountains and fine-tune your casting skills with a skilled fly-fishing guide.
If golf is your passion, you will find two premier golf clubs to explore: Wairakei Golf and Sanctuary and The Kinloch Club.
Stay 2 nights in Taupo.
Accommodation: Huka Lodge Taupo or Poronui Lodge
Featured: Huka Lodge
Today is spent at your leisure, either relaxing at your luxury lodge of choice, or exploring what Taupo has to offer.
Visit the Huka Falls, where you can witness the phenomenon of natural hydro power with more than 220,000 litres of water per sec barreling over an 11meter high waterfall. Take a kayak or boat tour around the scenic Western Bays of Lake Taupō to see the huge Māori rock carving at Mine Bay. Get active and hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing with a private guide – often described as New Zealand’s greatest day walk; lava flows, an active crater, steam vents, emerald-coloured lakes and magnificent views combine to make this an unforgettable walking journey. Or fuel your adventurous side by skydiving, bungy jumping, jet boating or rafting.
Featured: Privately Guided Tongariro Alpine Crossing Hike
Driving time Taupo to Auckland 4 hours or flight time 50 minutes
Your exclusive New Zealand experience ends in Auckland City. Spend the afternoon relaxing in the city and sampling the exciting culinary scene, or venture to vast black sand beaches.
Stay 1 night in Auckland.
Accommodation: Fable Auckland City or Hilton Hotel
As your unforgettable holiday draws to a close, soak in the views one last time before departing Auckland at your leisure.
If you wish to spend more time on the North Island, we also offer a 10 Day North Island Luxury Itinerary and a 14 Day North Island Luxury Itinerary.
Alternatively, browse our full range of holidays, including special interest itineraries.
In addition, every one of our New Zealand vacation packages is fully customisable. Use one of our recommended itineraries as a starting point, or work with our expert team to design a bespoke holiday.
Posted in: 7 Day Escapes, All Luxury Escapes, Featured, North Island
Date: November 21st, 2018, Posted by macstudio
A New Zealand South Island itinerary 14 days offers the chance to experience the best of the South Island, from top to bottom. Our 14 Day South Island Luxury Itinerary takes in dramatic scenic highlights, from golden-sand beaches to glaciers and fiords.
In addition, this New Zealand South Island itinerary 14 days allows travelers to indulge with a gourmet wine tour, a captivating tree house lodge stay, and exclusive helicopter tours.
Our recommended New Zealand South Island itinerary 14 days is as follows:
Read on for full details of our 14 Day South Island Luxury Itinerary.
Driving time Nelson to Abel Tasman – 1 hour
Your exclusive New Zealand experience begins in Nelson, situated at the picturesque northern end of the South Island.
When you arrive into Nelson, venture north to 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.
Your stay here will take in the serenity and rejuvenation on offer at Split Apple Retreat, an exclusive, intimate luxury lodge, retreat, and wellness spa. The retreat is renowned for its gourmet Asian-Mediterranean fusion cuisine, where every ingredient has been selected for its positive contribution to health and wellness. Indulge in the spectacular setting, original art and antiques, and unparalleled service.
Stay 2 nights in Abel Tasman.
Accommodation: Split Apple Retreat
Today is yours to unwind, indulge in the facilities and activities on offer at Split Apple Retreat, or explore Abel Tasman National Park further.
Every aspect of the retreat revolves around relaxation. Facilities at the retreat include a salt-water infinity pool, a Japanese spa, a sauna, a steam room, a yoga pavilion, and a meditation theatre – make the most of your stay with a massage treatment, a private yoga session, a cooking lesson with Chef Pen, or a guided meditation.
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.
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
Today enjoy a unique 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.
Learn about Kaikoura’s resident Sperm Whales and other marine mammal species. Whales and dolphins are orbited at a height of 150 metres giving passengers the opportunity to clearly see and photograph these incredible creatures. View the entire whale from head to tail as he breathes on the surface of the ocean.
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.
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.
The George is the only Luxury 5 Star Boutique Hotel Christchurch and embodies everything you could dream of in a luxury boutique hotel. The only luxury 5-star boutique hotel in Christchurch with a one-to-one staff to guest ratio, you are guaranteed to receive impeccable service. The George typifies luxury at every level. Extensive facilities, comprehensive service, excellent quality and attention to detail. Experience signature service with our one-to-one guest ratio, and consistent personalised service. With an award-winning restaurant; 50 Bistro and a beautiful setting and 5-star comfort The George is delightfully yours.
Stay 1 night in Christchurch.
Accommodation: The George Hotel Christchurch
Driving time Christchurch to Franz Josef – 5.5 hours
Your journey from east to west today is also a journey from civilisation to wilderness. New Zealand’s West Coast is a landscape of extremes, a narrow margin of land caught between the dramatic western faces of the Southern Alps and the wave-tossed Tasman Sea.
Along the way, your route will pass through Arthurs Pass, surrounded by rolling tussock-lands, dramatic peaks, and braided rivers.
You will be perfectly poised to experience the solitude and grandeur of the West Coast from your accommodation at Te Waonui Forest Retreat, an exclusive luxury hotel. Encircled by native bush, Te Waonui Forst Retreat has been built with both comfort and ecological awareness in mind. During your stay, indulge in a 5-course degustation dinner along with daily breakfast.
Stay 2 nights in Franz Josef.
Accommodation: Te Waonui Forest Retreat
Experience the best of Franz Josef and Fox Glacier from the air today with an unforgettable scenic helicopter flight. See pinnacles, crevasses, and the deep blue ice of glacier country. Your glacier experience also encompasses breathtaking views of Aoraki/Mt Cook and Mt Tasman, and culminates in a snow landing to immerse you in the magnificent surroundings.
To make the most of your stay in Franz Josef, you may wish to stroll along one of the local forest walks this afternoon or indulge in a spa treatment at Amaia Luxury Spa or Glacier Hot Pools.
Driving time Franz Josef to Wanaka – 4.5 hours
Discover Haast Pass today as you venture through the heart of the Southern Alps once more on the journey to Wanaka. This is a densely forested wilderness with cascading waterfalls, tumbling rivers, and hanging glaciers.
Lakes Wanaka and Hawea are your first glimpse into the Queenstown Lakes region, New Zealand’s premier alpine destination. Here you will find stunning glacial lakes, incredible mountain vistas, and all manner of outdoor pursuits.
Escape the bustle of town at Mahu Whenua, a ridgeline homestead and eco sanctuary. This luxurious high country homestead offers total privacy, unforgettable experiences, and exquisite food and wine in a setting which spans over 55,000 hectares of majestic natural beauty. Your accommodation includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, morning and afternoon tea, pre-dinner canapés, refreshments, picnics, and premium wine and other beverages.
Stay 2 nights in Wanaka.
Accommodation: Mahu Whenua
Explore your surrounds at Mahu Whenua today, with the option to enjoy the Homestead facilities, which include two open fireplaces, a large open living area with expansive views, a media & games room, a library, a pool table, an outdoor spa pool, a sheltered swimming pool, and a large deck that makes the most of the incredible location.
You could also indulge in the activities in offer around Wanaka, from hiking in Mt Aspiring National Park to kayaking on Lake Wanaka and touring the wineries of Central Otago.
Driving time Wanaka to Te Anau – 3.5 hours
Fiordland is a special part of New Zealand. With dramatic fiords, abundant wildlife, pristine alpine lakes, and New Zealand’s tallest waterfalls, this is a landscape that needs to be seen to be believed.
Te Anau is the perfect base for exploring this untouched wilderness. Set amidst stunning mountain and lake scenery, Fiordland Lodge offers a secluded retreat on the doorstep of the national park. Your stay includes a complimentary mini-bar, pre-dinner canapés, a four course dinner, and breakfast.
Stay 2 nights in Te Anau.
Accommodation: Fiordland Lodge
Doubtful Sound is one of the region’s largest – and most spectacular – fiords, it is also located deep in the heart of remote Fiordland.
The Doubtful Sound Scenic Flight offers a spectacular birds’ eye view of the rugged mountains, waterfalls and rainforests of this fiord.
Leaving from a lakeside Te Anau base, soar high above the Iris Burn Valley and Lake Manapouri, also known as the ‘Lake of Many Islands’ (it’s easy to see why!) Spot the infamous West Arm Power Station on Lake Manapouri before flying up and over the Wilmot Pass into Doubtful Sound. This long and winding fiord is one of Fiordland’s deepest and is home to a number of stunning waterfalls.
If the weather is suitable, your helicopter will detour into magical Campbell’s Kingdom, a beautiful hanging valley encompassing a lake and a waterfall. This is the stuff of fairytales.
From here, take a peek at Bradshaw Sound before soaring over the Main Divide of the Southern Alps for a second remote landing at scenic Mount Kidd. Make sure you have the camera or phone well charged for this flight – you’ll want to re-visit the scenes and landscapes you visit over and over again!
Driving time Te Anau to Queenstown – 2.5 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.
Eichardt’s Private Hotel is a Queenstown icon providing fine accommodation in seven luxurious Lake View Suites, four comfortably appointed Lakefront Apartments, The Residence and The Penthouse, all situated on premium lakefront positions in the heart of Queenstown.
Stay 3 nights in Queenstown.
Accommodation: Eichardt’s Private Hotel Queenstown
Today, enjoy an unforgettable helicopter picnic. You will be flown to a favourite Queenstown location – Cecil Peak, where you get to land, relax and enjoy the stunning scenery with a gourmet picnic put together with all the finest New Zealand produce, including wine or bubbles.
You will also get an amazing view of The Remarkables Mountains and a bird’s eye view across Queenstown.
This is the perfect place for proposals, honeymooners or simply taking time out in paradise.
Explore the Queenstown area today on a private gourmet wine tour that visits some of New Zealand’s most memorable vineyards. This intimate experience will showcase the best of Central Otago, with tastings at 4 vineyards and a gourmet lunch with five stunning dishes cooked in wine barrels and paired with matching wines. Other highlights include a tour through New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave and a cheese and wine presentation at one of the wineries.
As your unforgettable holiday draws to a close, soak in the views before departing Queenstown at your leisure.
Our luxury holiday packages include superb accommodation, exclusive sightseeing and activities, and transportation.
The above itinerary is merely an example of what is possible. When planning your South Island luxury escape, you have many choices.
Two weeks is enough time to see the major highlights around New Zealand. If you choose just one island, two weeks allows you to travel at a relaxed pace and still see most of what the island has to offer.
We offer a range of South Island luxury vacation packages.
Choose a 7 Day South Island Luxury Itinerary or a 10 Day South Island Luxury Itinerary, or browse our special interest tours. These include honeymoon and elopement packages, ski tours, and adventure holidays.
Posted in: 14 Day Escapes, All Luxury Escapes, South Island
Date: November 21st, 2018, Posted by macstudio
When planning luxury escapes New Zealand South Island, our team will help craft an unforgettable holiday. Choose one of our sample luxury itineraries or work with your personal travel consultant to design a bespoke tour.
Our recommended South Island New Zealand itinerary for 7 days is as follows:
Read on for the full details of this 7 day New Zealand luxury itinerary.
Your exclusive New Zealand experience begins in Christchurch, the perfect gateway to the South Island. Spend the afternoon relaxing in the city and sampling the exciting culinary scene, or venture to Akaroa to visit wineries and the Barry’s Bay Cheesery.
Stay 1 night in Christchurch.
Accommodation: The George Hotel
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
Enjoy a relaxing morning after your late night of stargazing. In the late morning, make the scenic drive to Mount Cook Village, where you will venture deep into the wilderness on an exclusive helicopter excursion.
Your experience begins with a stunning scenic flight to a secluded location in paradise, where you will relax and savour a gourmet picnic with the finest New Zealand produce. Round off your picnic in paradise with a glass of wine or bubbles while taking in the sublime beauty of Aoraki Mt Cook National Park.
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.
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 accommodation in Queenstown is at Matakauri Lodge, spectacularly situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Matakauri’s take on luxury is understated and welcoming, with the stunning mountain landscape taking the place of honour. Voted one of the top five lodges in New Zealand and Australia, Matakauri is the ultimate sanctuary as well as a convenient base for exploring the wonders of southern New Zealand. Your stay includes pre-dinner drinks and canapés, a multi-course dinner, and daily breakfast.
Stay 4 nights in Queenstown.
Accommodation: Matakauri Lodge
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.
Explore the Queenstown area today on a private gourmet wine tour that visits some of New Zealand’s most memorable vineyards. This intimate experience will showcase the best of Central Otago, with tastings at 4 vineyards and a gourmet lunch with five stunning dishes cooked in wine barrels and paired with matching wines. Other highlights include a tour through New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave and a cheese and wine presentation at one of the wineries.
Today is spent at your leisure, either relaxing at Matakauri Lodge and perhaps indulging in one of the spa treatments on offer, or adding another activity from the wide array on offer in Queenstown. Options range from guided nature walks and private cruises on Lake Wakatipu to more adrenaline-fuelled activities such as jet-boating and rafting.
As your unforgettable holiday draws to a close, soak in the views one last time before departing Queenstown at your leisure.
Every traveler is unique. Therefore, we rarely book set luxury holiday packages. Instead, we work with our clients to design a bespoke holiday that matches exactly what they are hoping for.
You have many choices when we begin creating your luxury holiday. For example:
The above itinerary follows a relaxing schedule, with plenty of time to unwind and indulge in the best the South Island has to offer.
We also offer a 10 Day South Island Luxury Itinerary and a 14 Day South Island Luxury Itinerary. In addition, you can choose from our range of special interest South Island itineraries. These include honeymoon and elopement packages, ski tour itineraries, adventure holidays, wellness retreats, wilderness experiences, and more.
Posted in: 7 Day Escapes, All Luxury Escapes, South Island
Date: February 16th, 2018, Posted by macstudio
Our New Zealand adventure tours and experiences showcase New Zealand at its most exciting.
New Zealand is a mecca for adventure enthusiasts, offering everything from helicopter sightseeing to jet-boating and skydiving. Heli-adventures offer access to pristine, untouched backcountry, while exclusive tours can be arranged for any adrenaline activities on offer–rafting, surfing, snowmobiling, jet-boating, kayaking, skiing, caving, canyoning, and much more.
Our top New Zealand adventure tours include:
Whether you choose to join a group tour or book an exclusive experience, New Zealand’s adventure scene offers myriad rewards, from heart-pounding adrenaline to breathtaking scenery.
Discover some of our favourite New Zealand Luxury Adventure Itineraries:
10 Day Luxury South Island Adventure Escape
10 Day South Island Wilderness Escape
10 Day Queenstown/Wanaka Luxury Ski Experience
Read on to learn about our top recommended luxury adventure experiences.
New Zealand is a country of mountains and fiords and volcanoes, a very special place where vertical scenery dominates the skyline. A New Zealand helicopter tour offers unparalleled access to some of the country’s most dramatic wilderness. In addition, many experiences below combine a helicopter flight with an adventure activity for an even more rewarding experience.
These are a few of the most spectacular helicopter tours in the country.
Because Queenstown is situated close to many of New Zealand’s most dramatic wilderness regions, Queenstown helicopter tours open up the opportunity to see a vast array of scenery.
With exclusive Heliworks Queenstown helicopter tours, you can see:
Discover the captivating coastline and 144 islands of the Bay of Islands from the air with a Salt Air helicopter tour. Explore the Hole in the Rock, venture as far north as Cape Reinga, or discover the coast on an unforgettable heli adventure.
If you stay at The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs during your time in the Bay of Islands, your exclusive Bay of Islands discovery flight will be arranged through the lodge.
A heli-skiing adventure provides access to thousands of kilometres of untouched terrain, with bowls, snowy ridges, and powder basins to ski and board. Combine this with magnificent views for a thrilling day out.
With Alpine Heliski, choose from heli skiing locations spanning from Mt Cook down to Queenstown. Some locations are deep in the backcountry, while others perch just above Queenstown with staggering views over the Wakatipu Basin. This region offers myriad runs in excess of 1200 metres.
A stay at Minaret Station opens up countless heli ski opportunities in the surrounding mountains. Lift off from your remote wilderness lodge for a day of adventure, deep powder, and breathtaking views.
Take in the magnificent views over Queenstown and Arrowtown with an unforgettable hot air balloon flight with Sunrise Balloons. Rise to altitudes of up to 3000 metres and drift with the breeze as you discover some of New Zealand’s most captivating scenery.
Lifting off at dawn, when the air is calmest, marvel at the views unfolding below–mountains, lakes, rivers, golf courses, and even Lord of the Rings filming locations. No matter the season, Queenstown is stunning.
Once you land, your hot air balloon Queenstown experience culminates with a champagne celebration. Enjoy tea, coffee, cheese, and sweet treats to round off an incredible morning.
New Zealand offers an abundance of world-class hiking opportunities. With guided walks and heli hikes, venture deep into the wilderness to discover the country’s most breathtaking scenery. Exclusive New Zealand hiking experiences range from beach trails in Abel Tasman National Park to helicopter-accessed mountain terrain.
Situated within easy access of both Mt Aspiring National Park and Fiordland National Park, Queenstown is a hiking mecca. Encounter glaciers, braided rivers, high country stations, fiords, lakes, and native forest on a guided walk or heli hike.
Enjoy an easy stroll through the unique microclimate at the shores of Lake Wakatipu on this enchanting half-day experience with Guided Walks New Zealand. Encounter native birdlife and learn about an array of edible and medicinal plants used by Maori and European settlers.
This full-day adventure departs from Queenstown for an immersive Fiordland experience. Southern Lakes Helicopters will collect you for a breathtaking flight over the lakes, rivers, and mountains of Fiordland National Park as you venture to Te Anau.
Landing on the Kepler Track, an exposed ridgeline with dramatic views across Lake Te Anau, embark on a guided downhill hike towards the shores of Lake Te Anau. A boat will transfer you to the town of Te Anau, where the next segment of your adventure continues.
Return to Queenstown by stunning scenic back roads, crossing through Mavora Lakes Conservation Area and Walter Peak Station. From Walter Peak Station, board the TSS Earnslaw Steamship to complete your journey back to the Queenstown waterfront.
Abel Tasman National Park is an enchanting region of golden-sand beaches, sheltered bays, and lush native bush. Winding along the coastline is the Abel Tasman Coast Track, one of the nine New Zealand Great Walks. Experience the best of this stunning trail with a day hike along the most scenic portions.
Walk the highlights of the Abel Tasman Coast Track with Wilsons Abel Tasman. A regular water taxi travels between different points along the coast, allowing you to hike portions of the trail, swim, and relax on the beach for a memorable day out.
The volcanic scenery of Tongariro National Park has an otherworldly appearance, with twisted lava formations, moonscape-like craters, volcanic cones, and jewel-colored lakes. Hikers will relish the chance to explore the fascinating landscape up close.
Internationally renowned as one of the best day hikes in the world, the Tongariro Crossing invites hardy adventurers to tackle its steep climbs and rugged terrain. As your private guide leads you along the stunning 21-kilometre track, learn about the geology and volcanic history of the region.
If the Tongariro Alpine Crossing does not suit your hiking level, Tongariro National Park offers countless shorter trails to explore. Choose from a range of privately guided hikes through the dramatic volcanic landscape to lakes, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints.
Fiordland National Park is home to three New Zealand Great Walks: the Milford Track, the Routeburn Track, and the Kepler Track. In addition, Fiordland boasts countless other trails through untouched wilderness.
The Expedition Fiordland experience (described above) offers a fantastic Fiordland encounter out of Queenstown. However, you can enjoy a hike along the same stretch of trail on a much shorter experience departing from Te Anau.
On the Fiordland Heli-Hike, Southern Lakes Helicopters lifts you from Te Anau up to Luxmore Hut on the Kepler Track. From here, panoramic views open out in every direction, with Lake Te Anau below and the peaks of Fiordland National Park rising beyond.
Descend from the ridge on an easy hike towards the Te Anau lakefront, where you will be collected by water taxi for the return journey to Te Anau.
Minaret Station offers unparalleled access to hiking opportunities in the Wanaka and Mt Aspiring National Park regions. Explore ridgelines, rivers, waterfalls, and valleys on exclusive guided half-day and full-day heli hike excursions.
New Zealand is home to over 3000 glaciers, spread across both islands. For an up-close look at the grandeur and scale of these glaciers, no experience can compete with a helicopter landing on the snow. And if you seek an even more immersive experience, a glacier heli-hike allows you to spend several hours exploring the ice.
Dropping nearly to sea level, Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier are New Zealand’s most famous–and most accessible–glaciers. Lush subtropical rainforest gives way to a river of ice for a stunning contrast. These dynamic glaciers change shape constantly, built up from the immense snowfall that compacts near the top each year and melting into rough rivers flowing straight out to sea at the base. Moreover, these two glaciers sit just opposite the Main Divide from Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park. In other words, a helicopter tour of either glacier offers unparalleled views of the main spine of the Southern Alps.
Experience the best of Franz Josef and Fox Glacier from the air on an immersive 40-minute flight with Heliservices. See pinnacles, crevasses, and the deep blue ice of glacier country. This unforgettable glacier helicopter flight also encompasses breathtaking views of Aoraki/Mt Cook and Mt Tasman, and culminates in a snow landing.
On your unforgettable heli hike with Franz Josef Glacier Guides, spend time exploring the ice formations with the help of crampons and an ice axe.
Begin with a breathtaking helicopter ride over the dramatic West Coast mountains, taking in views of Franz Josef Glacier below and craggy peaks all around. Once you land on the ice itself, spend two hours exploring the pristine features of this incredible frozen wonderland. Your guide cuts steps in the ever-changing ice, seeking the safest and most spectacular route across the glacier. Slide through narrow crevasses and between towering walls of ice, crawl through blue ice tunnels, explore ice caves, or even witness the glacier calving.
Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park boasts some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking alpine scenery. Home to the country’s highest mountains and largest glacier, this national park encompasses a wonderland of ice plateaus, hanging glaciers, craggy peaks, and braided rivers. As this extreme landscape is largely inaccessible except to mountaineers, a helicopter flight affords unparalleled access to the very best New Zealand glacial scenery.
Heliworks Mt Cook takes you deep into the breathtaking Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park on a 45-minute helicopter excursion. Fly the full length of Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s largest glacier, and take in magnificent views of Aoraki/Mt Cook. This region is home to some of the most stunning mountain scenery in New Zealand, and your helicopter tour offers the chance to see hanging glaciers, blue ice, and craggy mountain peaks. Finish your experience off with a landing atop Tasman Glacier.
For a comprehensive helicopter tour of this awe-inspiring mountain paradise, choose the Aoraki/Mt Cook Ultimate Scenic Flight with Heliworks. This 55-minute flight circles around the summit of Aoraki/Mt Cook, and on a clear day, views open up toward the West Coast, where you will see Franz Josef and Fox Glacier nestled in steep valleys. View hanging glaciers, rivers of ice, the otherworldly blue of deep crevasses, and icebergs floating on the Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake. Finish your experience with a landing high on Tasman Glacier, where your helicopter will shut down so you can experience the stillness and silence of this very special place.
If you wish to spend even more time immersed in the glacial wilderness of Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, the Tasman Glacier Heli Hike offers two hours on the ice. Travel with Mt Cook Glacier Guiding for an unforgettable heli hike experience.
Combine a breathtaking helicopter flight with an expedition across the ice–explore crevasses, blue ice caves, tunnels, and otherworldly formations as you traverse the face of this magnificent glacier. Your guide cuts steps as you go, choosing the most spectacular route across Tasman Glacier.
New Zealand is crisscrossed with bike trails, from easy family-friendly tracks to challenging mountain biking terrain. Among the most notable New Zealand mountain biking destinations are:
Surrounded by lush native and redwood forests, dotted with picturesque lakes and geothermal attractions, Rotorua is a mountain biking paradise.
The Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest is home to one of the oldest mountain bike networks in the country, with finely crafted trails, unbeatable riding surfaces, varying topography, and fantastic scenery.
In addition, Skyline Rotorua offers a network of gondola-accessed mountain biking tracks.
If you choose to stay at Solitaire Lodge or Treetops Lodge & Estate during your visit to Rotorua, these lodges open up exclusive mountain biking opportunities.
From Solitaire Lodge, embark on a biking adventure along the geothermal cycle trail, passing through lush forest. See steaming springs and multi-colored lakes at Rainbow Mountain and the Waimangu and Wai-O-Tapu thermal valleys, and take the chance to soak in a natural hot stream or at the Waikite Pools.
Treetops Lodge also offers an array of mountain bike excursions, from forest tracks to geothermal routes.
During a stay in Nelson or the nearby Abel Tasman National Park, you have the opportunity to discover a staggering diversity of wilderness on guided heli biking and mountain biking excursions.
Helibike Nelson offers a wide range of guided tours, from gentle coastal explorations in Golden Bay to technical mountain biking through untouched natural scenery. Most iconic of these excursions is a heli bike tour of the Old Ghost Road, a breathtaking trail that takes in ridgeline and forest scenery.
Home to the famous Alps2Ocean Cycle Trail, the Mackenzie Basin offers flat, easy cycle trails backed by magnificent scenery.
Lakestone Lodge sits right along the Alps2Ocean Cycle Trail, and the lodge offers complimentary bike hire if you wish to explore a section of this dramatic cycle trail.
Further south, a stay at The Lindis opens up opportunities to discover a different part of the Mackenzie Basin. Explore Ben Avon Station or the Ahuriri Valley with an e-bike tour through rugged, remote mountains.
Marlborough is home to two iconic biking activities: bike-to-wine tours and Queen Charlotte Track mountain biking.
The Sounds Retreat offers two complimentary bikes for guests who wish to explore the Queen Charlotte Track. In addition, the lodge can arrange bike-to-wine tours around Renwick, where most of the iconic Marlborough wineries are situated.
Heliworks Queenstown has partnered with All Mountain NZ to offer two exclusive heli biking excursions around Queenstown. Tackle Bowen Peak or Ben Cruachan on an unforgettable guided mountain biking tour, taking in spectacular scenery in every direction.
And if you stay at Blanket Bay Lodge, you have the opportunity to explore the stunning Glenorchy region by bike. The lodge has six Specialized bikes available for guests to use.
With thousands of kilometres of idyllic coastline, New Zealand is a paradise for sea kayaking.
The best destinations for sea kayaking in New Zealand include:
A stay in Paihia opens up an idyllic stretch of coastline to explore by sea kayak. Book a guided tour or rent kayaks to paddle the sheltered coast, or enjoy a short kayak excursion during your full-day chartered cruise aboard the luxury yacht Cool Change.
If you choose to stay at The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs, your luxury lodge provides exclusive access to a stretch of stunning coastline. On a guided sea kayaking excursion, discover the coastal flora and fauna that makes this one of the most scenic regions in the world. You may even encounter dolphins or spot little blue penguins during your paddle. Refuel at the unpopulated Little Waiaua Bay with a gourmet picnic lunch and wines to match. Afterwards, continue your paddle or dive under and discover marine life as you snorkel through sheltered kelp reefs.
For the ultimate Abel Tasman sea kayaking experience, Split Apple Lodge offers guests an exclusive full-day boat trip and kayaking excursion. Cruise into Abel Tasman National Park, kayak around Tonga Island’s seal colony, enjoy a leisurely walk along the coast, and indulge in a delicious picnic lunch. If you’re lucky, you may see blue penguins, dolphins, or even orcas.
Wilsons Abel Tasman offers a range of fantastic sea kayaking excursions, from short paddles suited to beginners to full-day kayaking adventures. Explore sheltered bays, encounter seals and native birds, and even combine your kayaking excursion with cruising and walking along the coastline for a comprehensive Abel Tasman experience.
During your stay at Bay of Many Coves Resort, you have the opportunity to use the kayaks available for guests to explore the nearby coastline. Guided trips are available as well.
If you choose to stay at The Sounds Retreat, the staff can help arrange guided half-day and full-day kayak tours along the idyllic coastline. Encounter a variety of birdlife, and possibly even see rays, seals, little blue penguins, dolphins, and orcas.
The scale and remoteness of Fiordland National Park is difficult to grasp. What better way to immerse yourself in this wilderness grandeur than with a sea kayaking excursion.
Embark on a small group kayaking tour with Real Journeys. Explore the spectacular Lady Bowen Falls, venture close to Sinbad Gulley–where you will find Mitre Peak, New Zealand’s most photographed mountain–and view the rainforest in beautiful detail.
Choose from a short kayak excursion combined with a Milford Sound cruise or a longer paddle with 4-5 hours on the water.
An overnight luxury Milford Sound cruise aboard the Fiordland Jewel includes the opportunity to enjoy a bit of sea kayaking. Once the Fiordland Jewel anchors in a sheltered cove, explore the nearby waters by sea kayak.
For a rewarding wilderness experience, join Real Journeys on a full-day kayaking adventure in Doubtful Sound. The excursion includes a cruise across the stunning Lake Manapouri, a coach trip over Wilmot Pass, and three hours of paddling on the still waters of the fiord. Explore Deep Cove, Rolla Island, and Olphert Cove on this unforgettable adventure deep in the vast wilderness of Fiordland National Park.
With crystal-clear turquoise water, dramatic gorges, and stunning natural settings, New Zealand’s rivers are a treat to explore by jet boat. And this is an adrenaline activity the whole family can enjoy–children as young as three years old can join jet-boat tours.
The two major destinations for jet boating are Queenstown and Taupo.
This iconic Queenstown experience is a must-do for most travellers. Speed through the narrow, dramatic canyons of the Shotover River and hold on tight as the jet boat turns dizzying 360-degree spins.
Travelling deep into the wilds of Mt Aspiring National Park, the Dart River Jet is both a breathtaking wilderness encounter and an adrenaline-pumping thrill ride. Follow the braided Dart River past staggering peaks and hanging glaciers and beech forest, with views of many Lord of the Rings filming locations along the way.
Travel to the foot of the crashing Huka Falls on a thrilling ride with Hukafalls Jet. Get up close to the thundering blue water and feel the power of the falls.
Take your luxury vacation to new heights with a thrilling skydive. Queenstown, Taupo, and Wanaka are the most notable places to skydive in New Zealand, with breathtaking mountain and lake scenery.
NZONE Skydive Queenstown will take you high above the Southern Alps and Lake Wakatipu for an exhilarating freefall. Choose from skydive heights up to 15,000 feet and relish in the unforgettable scenery.
Coast to coast views of lakes, volcanoes, and rivers, and New Zealand’s highest skydive, combine to make Taupo Tandem Skydiving an unforgettable experience. Jump from up to 18,500 feet for up to 75 seconds of freefall.
Skydive Wanaka rivals Queenstown as New Zealand’s most scenic mountain skydive. Take in breathtaking views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps as you face your fears and jump from a plane.
With pristine rivers and thrilling rapids, white water rafting in New Zealand makes for a fantastic wilderness adventure.
Go Orange offers a range of Queenstown rafting experiences, from leisurely family-friendly excursions to Grade 5 heli rafting adventures. Tackle the Shotover River or the Kawarau River and discover rugged canyon scenery and epic rapids.
The Shotover River Heli Rafting Adventure is the ultimate rafting experience, with a helicopter flight through the dramatic Skippers Canyon followed by a heart-pounding paddle through Grade 5 rapids.
The rivers around Taupo and Tongariro National Park offer countless rafting adventures. During a stay at Huka Lodge, you have the opportunity to experience a white water rafting trip on the Tongariro River. Raft over 50 rapids on pristine water as you pass volcanic landscapes and native bush. Choose from Grade 3 or Grade 5 rafting expeditions.
From Hobbiton to Isengard, a New Zealand Lord of the Rings tour reveals the stunning landscapes of Middle Earth in real life. Experience top filming destinations, from helicopter locations to the Hobbiton Movie Set, with these Lord of the Rings tours.
Explore charming hobbit holes and sample a hobbit-themed drink at the Green Dragon Inn on a Hobbiton Movie Set Tour. Private tours are available. For a more immersive experience, choose the Hobbiton Evening Banquet Tour.
Nomad Safaris offers a range of unforgettable Queenstown Lord of the Rings tours, from 4WD tours to exclusive heli-drive excursions.
In addition, Heliworks Queenstown takes guests on breathtaking helicopter tours of aerial filming locations throughout the Queenstown, Glenorchy, and Fiordland regions.
Your unforgettable Lord of the Rings experience begins with a helicopter flight to the blue ice and cascading waterfalls of Earnslaw Glacier, where scenes from The Hobbit were filmed. From there, land in the stunning Glenorchy region for a bespoke Nomad Safaris Lord of the Rings tour by luxury Tesla.
This Queenstown adventure tour with Nomad Safaris packs in countless breathtaking Lord of the Rings filming locations, along with thrilling 4WD action. On your private Lord of the Rings tour, discover the magic of Middle-earth and visit filming locations such as the Misty Mountains, the Pillars of the Kings (Argonath), and many more. Finally, follow a historic gold mining road and take the opportunity to try gold panning yourself.
The private Nomad Safaris tour to Glenorchy takes guests along one of New Zealand’s most scenic drive, following the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Visit filming locations that include Isengard, Ithilien Camp, Lothlorien, Fangorn Forest, and the Battle of Amon Hen, and enjoy breathtaking panoramas of Lake Wakatipu and the Southern Alps.
This unforgettable scenic flight with Heliworks Queenstown makes a fantastic introduction to Middle Earth. Fly towards the steep ridges of the Misty Mountains, climbing ever higher to reach the first top at Dimrill Dale. This valley marks the western door of the Gates of Khazad-dum (Moria) and Mirromere, source of the River Silverlode.
As your flight continues, you will also encounter Amon Hen, the Ithilian camp, the Ford of Bruinen, and the River Anduin.
Discover the dramatic Lord of the Rings filming locations around Queenstown, Arrowtown, Glenorchy, Skippers Canyon, and the surrounding mountains on a Heliworks Queenstown tour to the forests and peaks of LOTR.
Land at an exclusive Heliworks landing site, discover the blue ice and cascading waterfalls of a hanging glacier, and visit filming locations including Isengard, the Misty Mountains, Dimrill Dale, the Gates of Khazad-dum, Amon Hem, and Lothlorien.
This 75-minute helicopter flight includes two landings and offers staggering views of the dramatic scenery.
This ultimate Lord of the Rings tour includes three hours of breathtaking scenery and memorable filming locations spanning the Queenstown region and Fiordland National Park. Venture deep into Isengard, across the Misty Mountains, and to the Ford of Bruinen.
Your experience includes multiple landings, a visit to Milford Sound, and views of glaciers, rivers, and lakes. This is Middle Earth at its most captivating, with majestic scenery unfolding before you as your guide points out key filming locations.
Explore Weta Workshop, the Outer Shire, Rivendell, and the Gardens of Isengard on a Wellington Lord of the Rings tour with Rover Rings Tours. This comprehensive tour travels around the city centre and outskirts of Wellington, offering an enjoyable overview of the region.
Browse our range of New Zealand adventure itineraries as you begin planning your luxury holiday.
We can also add adventure activities to any of our New Zealand luxury itineraries.
Contact New Zealand Luxury Escapes today to begin planning the adventure of a lifetime.
Posted in: Experiences
Date: February 16th, 2018, Posted by macstudio
New Zealand offers countless wilderness experiences and 13 national parks showcasing more than 30,000 square kilometres of diverse, natural scenery ready to be explored by foot, boat, or air. In addition, New Zealand is home to the darkest skies in the world. Here, the heavens appear closer to earth. See constellations, shooting stars, unique celestial features and otherworldly landscapes.
New Zealand also has three World Heritage Sites: Te Wahipounamu, Tongariro National Park, and the Subantarctic Islands. Te Wahipounamu features include glaciers, fiords, rocky coasts, towering cliffs, lakes and waterfalls. Tongariro National Park is famous for its herb fields, forests, tranquil lakes, desert-like plateaus, and active volcanoes. The Subantarctic Islands are particularly notable for the large number of seabirds and penguins.
The best wilderness NZ experiences and destinations include:
Immerse yourself in New Zealand’s wilderness with our 10 Day South Island Wilderness Itinerary. Surround yourself with untouched natural splendor at exclusive wilderness retreats and indulge in delightful outdoor activities.
New Zealand boasts some of the world’s best stargazing. With clean air and wilderness areas free of light pollution, New Zealand offers unparalleled views of the Milky Way and even the Southern Lights (the Aurora Australis).
The Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve is New Zealand’s most iconic stargazing destination. Sparsely populated, the Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve encompasses the central basin near Aoraki/Mount Cook and Lake Tekapo. This world-renowned stargazing destination also boasts a state-of-the-art observatory for Lake Tekapo stargazing.
Experience Mackenzie Basin and Lake Tekapo stargazing with:
If you are lucky enough to encounter clear skies in Fiordland, an overnight cruise on Milford Sound offers an unforgettable stargazing opportunity. Indulge in a luxury overnight cruise on the Fiordland Jewel and stargaze from the deck-top hot tub after dinner.
Fiordland National Park is one of the most untouched wilderness areas in the world. The vertical topography, dense temperate rainforest, and extreme weather make this stunning region largely inaccessible and uninhabitable. Only one road allows access to Fiordland National Park by land; this region is best explored by water and by air.
Famous around the world, Milford Sound is home to the iconic Mitre Peak and some of the most arresting views in Fiordland National Park. The Milford Road allows visitors to drive directly to Milford Sound, while cruises and helicopter flights offer an even more captivating perspective of this dramatic fiord.
Explore Milford Sound with:
Even larger and more dramatic than Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound is much less accessible and therefore far less visited. Here you will discover the vast wilderness and breathtaking silence of Fiordland National Park.
Discover Doubtful Sound with:
Situated right along the Pacific Ring of Fire, New Zealand is a wonderland of volcanic landscapes. In particular, the North Island boasts several breathtaking volcanic regions, including Tongariro National Park and Egmont National Park.
Largest and most varied of New Zealand’s volcanic regions, Tongariro National Park encompasses the famous Tongariro Crossing day hike; the Tongariro Northern Circuit, one of the New Zealand Great Walks; two ski fields on Mt Ruapehu; and filming locations from the Lord of the Rings.
Explore Tongariro National Park with:
Just 24 kilometres from Rotorua, Mt Tarawera is a dramatic volcanic dome with a deep fissure down the centre. As the site of one of New Zealand’s largest historic eruptions, Mt Tarawera is fascinating to discover.
Visit Mt Tarawera with:
Cut off from the rest of the world for most of its evolutionary history, New Zealand is home to countless unique bird species found nowhere else in the world. Wildlife enthusiasts will never forget an encounter with these fascinating, charismatic birds, which include yellow-eyed penguins, Fiordland crested penguins, kiwis, keas, wekas, and gannets.
Only found in a very few parts of the world, penguins are a delight to see in the wild. New Zealand is home to many penguin colonies, and visitors may be lucky enough to encounter yellow-eyed penguins, Fiordland crested penguins, and little blue penguins around the coast.
The best destinations for penguin encounters include:
The Cape Kidnappers gannet colony is famous worldwide, with spectacular cliff-side views and abundant birdlife. In addition, Muriwai Beach, an hour’s drive from Auckland, boasts a thriving gannet colony of its own.
You can view gannets:
Once abundant throughout New Zealand, native birds have been driven often to the brink of extinction by introduced predators. However, these friendly, inquisitive native birds flourish on predator-free bird sanctuary islands around the country.
The Motuara Island Bird Sanctuary, in the Marlborough Sounds, is particularly notable. Home to blue penguins, bellbirds, Kereru (New Zealand pigeons), kakariki (yellow-crowned parakeets), and more, this island is a delight to explore.
Visit this bird sanctuary island with:
Home to the most fresh water per capita in the world, New Zealand is crisscrossed by hundreds of stunning rivers. Explore the dramatic gorges and river valleys around New Zealand with:
New Zealand is one of the best places in the world to encounter whales and dolphins. See bottlenose dolphins, Hector’s dolphins orcas, humpback whales, blue whales, southern right whales, sperm whales, and more.
World-renowned for whale watching, Kaikoura is one of the only places in the world where sperm whales can be seen year round. These magnificent whales are drawn by the rich marine ecosystem of the underwater Kaikoura Canyon. Humpback whales, blue whales, southern right whales, and orcas can also be sighted at different times of year.
Spot whales off the Kaikoura Coast with:
Dolphins live off the coast in many parts of New Zealand, from top to bottom. From sheltered bays to deep fiords, New Zealand’s coastline offers countless stretches of idyllic marine habitat.
Some of the top dolphin encounter destinations and options include:
With many metres of rainfall every year and an abundance of native species, New Zealand’s West Coast rainforest is unique.
Discover this captivating temperate rainforest with:
Shy and nocturnal, kiwi birds are very difficult to see in the wild. Even most New Zealanders never see their famous kiwi bird in the wilderness. However, you have the opportunity to encounter these charming flightless birds on a kiwi tour.
The best kiwi encounter tours are:
Home to mountains, glaciers, river valleys, and alpine lakes, the stunning Mt Aspiring National Park straddles the southern end of the Southern Alps. Discover this superb wilderness region with helicopter tours, guided hikes, and outdoor adventures.
The top experiences in Mt Aspiring National Park include:
The Redwoods Forest in Rotorua is a wilderness New Zealand highlight.
Explore this atmospheric forest with:
Learn more about our wilderness holiday packages here.
Many of our other New Zealand itineraries include helicopter tours, cruises, and lodge stays in picturesque natural settings. We can also modify any itinerary to include immersive encounters with wildlife and nature.
Contact New Zealand Luxury Escapes today to begin planning your wilderness retreat.
Posted in: Experiences
Date: February 16th, 2018, Posted by macstudio
New Zealand Luxury Escapes specialises in exclusive New Zealand guided hunts and fishing expeditions throughout the country. Whether you have one day or 1-3 weeks, we will craft your ideal hunting or fishing trip.
Read on for information about hunting and fishing in New Zealand.
New Zealand is a very popular destination for the hunting enthusiast. In addition, New Zealand boasts some of the finest trophy hunting in the world.
The big game hunting season in New Zealand starts in February and finishes in August.
There are daily direct flights that leave Los Angeles and San Francisco for Auckland, which is your point of entry to New Zealand. Auckland is also the port where you will clear customs. It is recommended that you arrive 1-2 days prior to your first hunt commencing. That way, you can adjust to our climate and get over any jet lag you may have.
New Zealand is a “hunter friendly” destination. It is very easy to bring a conventional sporting firearm into the country; to apply online, please click here. It should take no longer than 5-10 minutes to clear your guns on arriving at Auckland International Airport.
There are 12 species of big game available to the hunter in New Zealand. These include Red Deer, Fallow Deer, Whitetail Deer, Sambar Deer, Rusa Deer, Sika Deer, Wapiti (Elk), Austrian Chamois, Himalayan Tahr, South Pacific Goat, Wild Pig, and Wild Bulls. All provide good trophies and many have exceeded the trophy potential of their country of origin.
There are 6 water-foul species: Mallard, Paradise, Grey and Shoveler Duck, Black Swan and Greater Canadian Goose.
Typically, visitors book guided hunts on private land. Hunting on private blocks is a fair chase and offers the excitement of tracking and the thrill of the hunt.
Start by looking at our two sample hunting itineraries:
These are designed to give you information about the hunting experiences and lodges on offer in New Zealand. From there, New Zealand Luxury Escapes will tailor the ideal hunting package for you.
For more information and FAQs, click here.
New Zealand is a spectacular and popular fishing destination. With crystal-clear wilderness rivers and tranquil lakes, New Zealand offers some of the world’s best fishing.
There is great trout fishing year round in New Zealand’s outstanding rivers and lakes. Summer river fly fishing in October-May is available throughout the country and advance reservations for guides is an absolute requirement. In winter, you’ll find the world’s best fresh water rainbow trout runs in the central North Island. Boat and deep-sea fishing is enjoyed year round.
Our 14 Day New Zealand Fishing Experience Itinerary is designed to give you information about the fishing experiences and lodges on offer in New Zealand. After that, New Zealand Luxury Escapes will tailor the ideal fishing package for you.
Posted in: Experiences
Date: February 16th, 2018, Posted by macstudio
A luxury cruise New Zealand offers an unforgettable opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
With a long coastline boasting extraordinary variety, countless pristine lakes, and turquoise glacial rivers, New Zealand is defined by water. Magnificent cruises offer the best way to experience the essence of New Zealand. Discover secluded coves, pristine sandy beaches, breathtaking fiords, and incredible wildlife.
For your luxury cruise New Zealand, we recommend:
Many of our New Zealand luxury itineraries include these luxury cruises or the opportunity to add one.
Read on to learn about our top New Zealand luxury cruises.
Pure Cruise offers a genuine, personal sailing experience exploring the native bays and coves of the beautiful Lake Rotoiti under sail. Fish for rainbow trout, soak in thermal pools at the lake’s edge, and hear stories and legends of the local Maori, all accompanied by fine wine and great food. For a full day of discovery, begin with an exclusive helicopter flight over the spectacular Mount Tarawera to White Island, New Zealand’s only permanently active volcano and finish this once-in-a-lifetime experience with an afternoon cruise.
The Fiordland Jewel is the perfect way to explore the wilderness of Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park. This luxury catamaran features a helicopter pad, a top-deck hot tub, a private king suite, and chef-prepared cuisine. Guests can experience a range of trips from day cruises on Milford Sound to multi-day expeditions through the southern fiords.
Indulge in an overnight cruise aboard the Fiordland Jewel with these luxury itineraries:
Explore the dramatic coastline of Lake Wakatipu on a cruise aboard the indulgent Pacific Jemm – visit iconic high country farms, enjoy spectacular mountain scenery surrounded by crystal clear water, enjoy a gourmet meal while watching the sun set over the Southern Alps, or even spend a night in the stylish suites on board.
Escape to paradise in style and comfort aboard the private cruise launch MV Tarquin as you explore the Marlborough Sounds. Offering understated luxury for the discerning cruisers, Tarquin boasts stylish surrounds with home comforts. The Marlborough Sounds are formed by an intricate coastline of sheltered inlets and sandy bays, with forested hills rising steeply from the sea. Discover sanctuary islands teeming with wildlife, sample seafood fresh from the ocean, and explore sandy beaches and picturesque bays.
The luxury yacht Cool Change caters for the discerning visitor who seeks an exclusive sailing experience in the Bay of Islands. On your private charter, enjoy an island stopover and choose from a range of pursuits, including kayaking, swimming, and stand up paddleboarding. The Cool Change can also cater for any special interests, including marine mammal viewing and snorkeling. Round off your experience with a gourmet lunch including beverages. The elegant vessel is comfortably equipped for couples, families, and groups of all sizes.
Posted in: Experiences
Date: February 16th, 2018, Posted by macstudio
With a gentle, varied climate and thousands of kilometres of coastline, New Zealand is home to a stunning array of local food and wine. From the exquisite New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc found in the rolling Marlborough wine region to freshly-caught seafood, New Zealand is a country worth savoring. And you can taste the most enticing vintages and dishes of this beguiling country with our New Zealand wine tours and fine dining experiences.
Fly by private helicopter to a stunning alpine ridge to enjoy an unforgettable champagne picnic. Taste wines on a private tour hosted by the vintner. Soak in the atmosphere of high country farm life with an exclusive meal at Mt Nicholas Station. Catch your own crayfish or trout for an immersive wild food experience.
These are just some of the top luxury wine and food experiences on offer in New Zealand. Read on to discover the very best of New Zealand’s exclusive food and wine scene.
New Zealand is home to 11 major wine regions, encompassing a wide variation in topography, from mild subtropical islands to rugged mountainous terrain. Around the world, New Zealand wines have gained recognition for their bold flavors and unique varietals.
Most iconic among the New Zealand wine regions are Marlborough, Central Otago, Hawkes Bay, and the micro-region of Waiheke Island. These New Zealand wine tours showcase the very best wineries in New Zealand.
Wineries nestled in the spectacular, rugged hills of Central Otago are home to world-renowned Pinot Noir along with bold white wines. A Queenstown wine tour visiting these top vineyards makes for an unforgettable experience.
Choose from a variety of New Zealand wine tours on offer with Appellation Wine Tours, from private tours to helicopter wine tasting excursions.
Spend an afternoon among the boutique vineyards of Central Otago with the 5.5-hour Private Boutique Wine Tour. Visit 4 premium vineyards in the Gibbston Valley, Bannockburn, and Cromwell sub-regions, enjoying 12-15 wine tastings and a sumptuous platter lunch accompanied by a glass of wine at a renowned vineyard restaurant.
This unforgettable wine tour offers a fantastic overview of the very best of Central Otago, with visits to internationally acclaimed vineyards and an abundance of dramatic scenery.
For a more leisurely and indulgent experience, the Private Gourmet Wine Tour tantalizes visitors with 6.5 hours of wine and cheese tasting combined with local sightseeing.
In addition to the highlights of the Private Boutique Wine Tour, enjoy a cheese and wine presentation, tour New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave, indulge in 5 gourmet dishes cooked in wine barrels and paired with matching wines, and stroll through Old Cromwell or the picturesque Arrowtown historic centre.
This tailor-made full day wine experience can be catered to your interests.
Take to the sky and discover New Zealand’s most picturesque wine region in luxury and style. Explore the mountains and valleys of Central Otago from air and land with a 45-minute helicopter flight combined with a scenic drive in a chauffeured luxury vehicle.
Along the way, taste wines from 3 premium wineries, indulge in an a la carte lunch and glass of wine at a vineyard restaurant, and land atop a ridge for panoramic views over Central Otago.
During a stay at Mahu Whenua, you have the opportunity to explore the region on a Central Otago wine tour centred around Wanaka.
Your experience begins when your helicopter taxi collects you directly from the on-site helipad at Mahu Whenua. Enjoy a scenic flight to a privately owned vineyard, where you will indulge in 6-8 tastings. From there, enjoy a gourmet platter lunch at Mt Difficulty. Finally, your helicopter will drop into the picturesque Cardrona Valley, where you will visit Cardrona Distillery for a final tasting before your return flight to Mahu Whenua.
On this privately chauffeured tour, travel by luxury vehicle to four boutique Central Otago vineyards and craft breweries in the Wanaka area. As you explore the dramatic region, your expert guide will bring the history and heritage of this incredible region to life. Taste premium wines and craft beers and indulge in a vineyard lunch.
This boutique wine region delights visitors with a host of fresh local cuisine, from olive oil grown and pressed on Waiheke Island to oysters straight from Te Matuku Bay.
Indulge in the best the island has to offer on an unforgettable wine and food tour with Ananda Tours.
Choose from a range of private custom tours and group tours, with a range of experiences on offer, including tastings of wine, olive oil, and mussels; microbrewery visits; and gourmet platter lunches. New Zealand wine tours on Waiheke Island are an experience to be savoured.
During your stay at the Bay of Many Coves Resort or The Sounds Retreat in Marlborough Sounds, you have the option to experience a gourmet wine and food experience. These take in the exquisite vineyards of Marlborough New Zealand, our country’s largest and most acclaimed wine region, with a chance to sample the iconic New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.
Sample the best of the region on a personalised tour of the leading Marlborough wineries. We can design your experience to include a range of unforgettable food and wine highlights, from indulgent vineyard lunches and tastings at desired wineries to an opportunity to sample Marlborough Greenshell Mussels.
Experience the best of the Marlborough wine scene with this delicious gourmet tour. Designed for those with a real interest in wine and gourmet foods, this reserve-grade tour focuses on wine appreciation, wine and food matching, and wine education. The 6-hour tour includes transfers from The Sounds Retreat.
Enjoy a fabulous mix of the Marlborough wine region and the Marlborough Sounds in one day. Spend the morning visiting exquisite Marlborough wineries, finishing with a gourmet vineyard lunch. After that, board a Marlborough Sounds cruise for a leisurely afternoon of seafood tasting. This tour is 8 hours in duration and includes transfers from The Sounds Retreat.
Enjoy an unforgettable half day cheese-making tour and experience at the Cranky Goat, an award-winning local cheesery. Learn the cheese-making process, make your own cheese, and taste award-winning cheeses with a glass of Marlborough wine. The following day, the cheesemaker will deliver your own finished cheese to The Sounds Retreat.
What better way to combine breathtaking scenery and fine cuisine than with a helicopter picnic. Heliworks will lift you high into the mountains, where you will land on a stunning alpine ridge to enjoy unparalleled views. Top destinations for helicopter picnics include Aoraki/Mt Cook and Queenstown, which are among New Zealand’s most scenic destinations.
This is an amazing choice for proposals, honeymoons, anniversary celebrations, or simply taking time out in an incredible location.
Fly into the magnificent landscapes of Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, where your private helicopter will land in a stunning alpine location. Enjoy a gourmet picnic hamper packed with the finest New Zealand produce, and pair your lunch with wine, beer, or bubbles. As you indulge in your delicious picnic, take in the breathtaking views in every direction.
Lift off and fly to a stunning Queenstown location, Cecil Peak, where you will land amidst breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and the Southern Alps. Enjoy a gourmet picnic with fresh New Zealand produce and wine or bubbles while you savour the views.
This location sits high above the shores of Lake Wakatipu, with views towards the head of the lake, a landscape of towering glacier-capped peaks. Only Heliworks offers access to this exclusive landing site, and the longer helicopter flight to The Hummocks showcases even more breathtaking scenery from the air.
High country stations shaped New Zealand’s early pioneering history, and many are still operational today, steeped in heritage charm. Many of these iconic high country stations are nestled in valleys and across hillsides around Queenstown and Wanaka. In addition, many luxury lodges are situated on sheep stations, taking advantage of the vast open spaces and commanding views these offer. Examples include Mahu Whenua in Wanaka and The Farm at Cape Kidnappers in Hawke’s Bay.
One of the best ways to enjoy the atmosphere of a historic high country station is with a gourmet meal.
This extravagant full-day sightseeing adventure with Heliworks Queenstown combines a comprehensive helicopter tour of Fiordland National Park with a gourmet dining experience at Mt Nicholas Station.
Fly over the Richardson Mountain Range for the spectacular Earnslaw Burn, where your helicopter will land to take in views of Mt Earnslaw’s hanging glacier with waterfalls cascading below. Continue over the Hollyford Valley towards Mt Tutoko, the highest peak in Fiordland, before flying over the iconic Milford Sound to a rugged West Coast beach. On the return flight, take in views of the dramatic Sutherland Falls before landing at Mt Nicholas High Country Station.
Immerse yourself in the dramatic scenery with a hearty lunch at Old Nicholas Cottage before embarking on a 2 hour farm tour of Mt Nicholas Station. Finally, a water taxi will collect you for the return trip across Lake Wakatipu to Queenstown.
From hunting and fishing to foraging for native plant species, New Zealand abounds with wild food opportunities.
Many luxury lodges offer the chance to connect with nature as you pursue the country’s best wild foods.
At Treetops Lodge Rotorua, experience the Estate to Plate Safari, the Wild Food Cooking School, or the Maori Food Trail. Embark on an expedition through the forest as you discover local wild foods and forage for the ingredients for a gourmet meal.
At Salt + Earth Te Anau, indulge in a sumptuous Taste Fiordland Dining Experience. Sample the best of Fiordland’s wild food, including crayfish, venison, paua, and blue cod. For an even more immersive experience, join your host in harvesting your own crayfish off the Fiordland coast on a helicopter-accessed snorkeling expedition.
For a unique dining experience, board the Christchurch Tramway for a memorable dinner as you tour the city centre. Enjoy a welcome drink and four-course meal using New Zealand produce on this heritage tram.
Posted in: Experiences
Date: February 16th, 2018, Posted by macstudio
New Zealand is home to a stunning array of golf courses set in incredible locations. With dramatic scenery, long stretches of coast, lush greenery, and soaring mountains, New Zealand is an unforgettable destination for golf.
Luxury courses have been designed to make the most of the natural terrain and show off the best scenery. Pair these with exquisite lodge accommodation, and your golf experience will be unsurpassable.
New Zealand Luxury Escapes has crafted a 14 Day New Zealand Golf Itinerary, a 10 Day New Zealand Golf Itinerary, and a 7 Day New Zealand Golf Itinerary to showcase New Zealand’s top golf courses. These itineraries can be customised to suit your preferences.
New Zealand has world class golf courses spread across the North and South Islands, many claiming world top 100 status. Below are the courses that we recommend should be included in any golfing itinerary of New Zealand.
Read on to learn more about the best New Zealand golf courses.
Kauri Cliffs is one of the most visually spectacular courses you will ever play. Designed and built by David Harman of Golf Course Consultants, this par 72 course offers five sets of tees to challenge every skill level. Fifteen holes offer views of the Pacific Ocean, six of which are played alongside cliffs which plunge to the sea. The beautiful inland holes wind through marshes, forest, and farmland.
The only Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course built in New Zealand, Kinloch showcases a design philosophy that aims to enhance the natural environment – allowing the surroundings of the stunning Taupo region to shape each hole. Ranked as New Zealand’s number one golf course in 2014, Kinloch Club is often compared to the classic link courses in Scotland and Ireland. Instead of traditional sea views, this world-class championship par 72 course boasts panoramic views of Lake Taupo and the natural beauty of rugged rural farmland.
Widely regarded as New Zealand’s top golf course, Cape Kidnappers is one that every serious golfer in the world should play. Designed by legendary golf architect Tom Doak, the Cape Kidnappers par 71 course will challenge golfers of all skill levels. Built on a landscape of ridges and valleys, backed by stunning sea views, Cape Kidnappers has been hailed as one of the great modern marvels in golf. With cliff-edge fairways perched high above the ocean atop dramatic cliffs, this course offers holes unlike any you will find elsewhere in the world.
Since its opening in 2015, Tara Iti has been taking the golf world by storm. This exclusive, private golf club has debuted at No. 6 on Golf Digest’s ranking of the World’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses, and membership is small and hand-picked to ensure the club maintains an intimate vibe. The unadorned course gives you constant views of the coastline and offshore islands, with dramatic views of waves crashing on the white-sand beach. The course is true links, with fescue grass covering both fairways and greens. Rather than traditional tee boxes, rambling areas contain any number of possible starting positions for each hole.
Jack’s Point golf course is an unforgettable experience. Designed in harmony with the natural environment, the course weaves through natural contours of tussock grassland, dramatic rocky outcrops and steep bluffs overlooking Lake Wakatipu. With the rugged Remarkables Range forming a stunning backdrop, the par 72 championship course offers golfers an exciting challenge with five tee positions.
The Hills was designed by Darby Partners and opened in 2007 to host the New Zealand Open. Set over 500 acres of land across a glacial valley, the layout highlights the dramatic elevation changes and rocky schist outcrops that define the area. This championship layout provides a serious challenge for accomplished players, though the well-rounded design means the course is equally enjoyable for golfers of all levels. The course’s beautiful lakes, waterways, and wetland areas are complemented by a stunning array of sculptures.
Posted in: Experiences
Date: February 15th, 2018, Posted by macstudio
Luxury hotels New Zealand offer the chance to soak in the atmosphere of New Zealand’s top cities.
Often located in the heart of town or along the waterfront, with unbeatable views, New Zealand 5 star hotels and luxury resorts offer uncompromising quality and top locations. Along with the comfort of your magnificent room, luxury hotels and resorts offer exquisite dining, spa facilities, full concierge services, and more to make your stay welcoming and personal.
A few of the best hotels in New Zealand include:
We include these luxury hotels New Zealand in many of our itineraries. Or you may wish to select a favourite option to add into your stay in New Zealand.
Whether you are searching for luxury hotels in Auckland, luxury hotels in Christchurch or particular properties like Eagles Nest, Sofitel Auckland or Boatshed Waiheke, read on.
The George Christchurch is the only luxury 5 star boutique hotel located in the heart of Christchurch City. Offering one-to-one staff to guest ratio, you are guaranteed to receive impeccable service.
New Zealand luxury accommodation at Eagles Nest NZ. Experience Bay of Islands luxury hotel accommodation set within a 75 acre estate offering spectacular views. Services include the resident personal trainer and spa therapists ensuring the most indulgent of stays.
Henley Hotel Cambridge is a modern country manor-style boutique hotel with 14 beautifully appointed rooms offering a blend of relaxed luxury, and contemporary design all set within 29 acres of grounds and manicured gardens.
Bolton Hotel, Wellington’s only 5 star boutique hotel offering elegant studios to one and two bedroom suites in the heart of Wellington’s CBD.
Eichardt’s Private Hotel is a Queenstown icon providing fine accommodation in luxurious Lake View Suites, Lakefront Apartments and The Penthouse, in the heart of Queenstown.
Chic luxury Boatshed Waiheke accommodation, sitting just above a sun-drenched bay and white sandy beach. Designer luxury hotel suites, each completely private with panoramic ocean views.
Immerse yourself in a sense of timeless elegance at Hulbert House. One of Queenstown’s original residences, Hulbert House Queenstown is the personification of luxury.
Sofitel Auckland offers sophisticated and exquisite guest rooms or suites with floor to ceiling windows and private Juliet balconies opening up to views of the city, calming internal water feature or the marina.
The luxury hotel lodge, Te Waonui Forest Retreat nestled in the rainforests near the Franz Josef Glacier offers a 5 star eco-retreat experience.
Set in the heart of the Marlborough Sounds, Bay of Many Coves is a luxury 5 star resort hotel nestled in untouched native bush that kisses the shoreline of the tranquil bay below.
Regent Of Rotorua is a gem that stands apart from the crowd as Rotorua’s most stylish hotel, this central city hotel has been designed with the modern traveller in mind.
Located just 20 minutes outside of Queenstown, Millbrook Resort encompasses luxury accommodation, a championship golf course, an award-winning day spa, and much more. For New Zealand elopements, Millbrook Resort serves as an ideal wedding destination.
Commanding stunning lake views and boasting a wide variety of rooms, from hotel studios to the sumptuously appointed Rees Residences, The Rees Hotel is among the top Queenstown luxury hotels.
Exquisite and conveniently located in the heart of Queenstown, the French-inspired Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa delights visitors with luxurious suites and attention to detail. With two opulent penthouses to choose from, Sofitel Queenstown is sure to impress.
Hotel Montreal offers spacious, luxurious 5-star suites in the heart of Christchurch. For the ultimate experience, choose to stay in the lavish penthouse.
Posted in: Luxury Accommodation NZ
Date: July 24th, 2017, Posted by macstudio
If you enjoy privacy and the comforts of home while traveling, luxury holiday homes and villas are the best places to stay in New Zealand.
Relax and enjoy the ultimate private escape in New Zealand at a luxury holiday home or villa. Experience unwavering attention to detail, award-winning architecture and impeccable decor in New Zealand’s finest properties, from luxury holiday homes and private retreats to seaside villas and expansive country estates. Many offer additional services such as private chefs, knowledgeable staff and local guides to immerse you in New Zealand’s best authentic luxury experiences.
Read on to learn more about our choices for the best places to stay in New Zealand. These luxury holiday homes and villas are sure to be a highlight of your vacation. We can add a luxury villa or holiday home stay to any New Zealand itinerary.
Mākoha is an oasis of peace and tranquility, a luxurious haven created for discerning travellers with an adventurous spirit. Mākoha is derived from the Maori word meaning to be tranquil, undisturbed, gentle and compassionate. It is a unique, adults only property, nestled on a protected headland in the heart of the magnificent Tutukaka Harbour – the gateway to the world famous Poor Knights Islands.
Dunalistair House is one of New Zealand’s finest luxury holiday homes, escape with friends and family to this luxurious 4 super king / 4 bathroom home with spacious, open plan living areas. Dunalistair House is available to rent exclusively for up to 8 friends, families, golfing groups and a small number of corporate retreats or intimate weddings (max 80 guests).
Luxury Lodge Accommodation in Wanaka. Wake up each morning to one of the most spectacular views in the South Island, overlooking Lake Wanaka. Your personal chef is available to prepare meals using local organic produce, while your personal concierge can help plan your day in paradise.
Luxury Lodge Accommodation, Hurakia Lodge, Auckland Harbour NZ, is located on Rakino Island, just 5 minutes from downtown Auckland by helicopter. A luxuriously secluded escape, accessible only by helicopter or boat, the villa boasts spectacular 360 degree sea views. Hurakia has five double bedrooms all with well appointed ensuites, spacious indoor and outdoor living areas including pool and spa. Personal Chef or self catering options are available.
Luxury home located 25 minutes drive from Wanaka, uniquely positioned within 50-acres of tussock and natural bush. Te Kahu features multiple living areas and all three bedrooms have beautifully designed ensuite bathrooms. Its sheltered outdoor area, complete with seating and open fire, provides the perfect spot to cozy up and enjoy the breath-taking lake views.
Queenstown Luxury Accommodation, Bel Lago, offers a luxurious four bedroom home with multiple balconies, sauna, outdoor spa pool and magnificent lake views.
Revel in this privately located four bedroom luxury villa with majestic views of Lake Wakatipu, the snow-capped Remarkables Mountains, and Queenstown City. A short distance to Queenstown shops, restaurants and bush walks. Aspen House Luxury Queenstown Villa is sure to impress.
Otaha Beachfront Lodge, your private luxury retreat in the Bay of Islands, is situated in close proximity to Kerikeri and only a two minute walk to the beach. This luxury lodge has five spacious beautifully appointed bedrooms each with their own ensuite and private decking area. There is also an additional room for a nanny or caregiver.
Cascata Queenstown, is a grand structure that makes an impact right from the moment you step onto the property. This architecturally designed four bedroom residence is an entertainer’s haven. The property has plenty of social spaces each with different views and features, including a pizza oven; built-in roof heating, log fire, surround sound, 10-seater spa and sauna.
Posted in: Luxury Accommodation NZ
Date: July 24th, 2017, Posted by macstudio
New Zealand is a leading destination for wellness retreats, with choices like Aro Ha New Zealand and Split Apple Retreat gaining worldwide recognition.
Escape to wellness retreats NZ to slow down, relax, and rejuvenate. Wellness retreats in New Zealand offer an opportunity to reconnect with the calming beauty of nature, stimulate the mind and body, and lift the spirit. Enjoy gourmet cuisine designed to maximise your health, partake in activities such as yoga, massage, and outdoor pursuits, and soak in the extraordinary views and serene atmosphere.
Aro Ha and Split Apple Retreat are among our top recommendations.
See our top rated 10 Day Wellness Itinerary.
Aro Ha New Zealand is a next-level wellness experience, offering life shifting, body morphing, spirit lifting retreats. Aro Hā condenses optimal living practices into signature wellness adventures. Multi award-winning, Aro Hā fuses advanced eco accommodation, permaculture based self-sufficiency, and world-class results-oriented programming.
Located in New Zealand’s ethereal Southern Alps, Aro Hā is designed for the rejuvenation of the human spirit. The experience is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or friends. The physically stimulating programs sculpt the body and mind with sub alpine hiking, vinyasa yoga, and dynamic movement. Programs include nutrient dense vegetarian cuisine, healing bodywork, and daily mindfulness practice. If a shift is needed, you’ve found the right elixir.
Split Apple Retreat is an exclusive luxury lodge and wellness retreat located at the edge of the Abel Tasman National Park. Immerse yourself in the pristine surrounds, saltwater infinity swimming pool, spa and detoxifying sauna, massage therapy, acupuncture, meditation, and other stress reduction therapies. Private paths lead to two beaches – one at the base of the property and another to the beach with the famous 120 million year old Split Apple Rock, after which the retreat was named. The retreat, located near Nelson, New Zealand, is renowned for its gourmet Asian-Mediterranean fusion cuisine where every ingredient has been selected for its positive contribution to health and wellness.
Indulge in the spectacular setting and unparalleled service. With Abel Tasman National Park at your doorstep, pristine nature presents a kaleidoscope of constantly changing colors and patterns. Every aspect of the retreat revolves around relaxation. Enjoy the salt-water infinity swimming pool and Japanese spa overlooking Tasman Bay, along with the FAR-infrared sauna, steam room, yoga pavilion, and meditation theatre.
Posted in: Luxury Accommodation NZ
Date: March 20th, 2017, Posted by macstudio
The North Island is home to some of the very best luxury lodges of New Zealand.
Luxury lodges cater to the most discerning visitor. These exclusive properties offer the finest experience, from fine gourmet cuisine and the highest standard of hosting and facilities through to spa treatments, helicopter flights, private golf and wilderness encounters. Your host will provide a welcoming experience set against the backdrop of New Zealand’s stunning natural landscapes.
The top North Island luxury lodges include:
Read on to learn more about these exquisite luxury lodges of New Zealand.
You can add a luxury lodge stay to any of our luxury North Island itineraries.
The Farm At Cape Kidnappers is considered one of the top luxury lodges in Hawkes Bay and New Zealand. Indulge in a luxury getaway with panoramic ocean views, home to not only a lodge and spa, this unique property also boasts one of the world’s top golf courses, a sanctuary for some of New Zealand’s most precious flora and fauna, and a working farm.
Luxury lodge accommodation in the Bay of Islands, The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs offers opulent and elegant suites with panoramic views across the untouched coastline. Indulge in fine cuisine created by award-winning chefs and relax, rejuvenate and revive your spirit at the spa nestled at the edge of a Totara forest. Kauri Cliffs also famously boasts a championship golf course, currently ranked #37 in the world by Golf Digest.
Enjoy a world where elegant and generous hospitality meets sophistication and style. Huka Lodge Taupo, nestled along the banks of the magnificent Waikato River, upstream from the mighty Huka Falls is regarded as one of the top luxury lodges in New Zealand. Set within 17-acres of gorgeous manicured grounds, accommodation is available within just 19 Lodge Suites and two private cottages.
Treetops Lodge & Estate is the leader when it comes to Rotorua Luxury Accommodation. Your Wilderness Retreat, discover this elegant, rustic lodge, nestled in 2,500 acres of private native forest and pristine wilderness. Succumb to the allure of inviting spaces that comfort the soul and set the heart at ease, suffused with warmth and the sustaining essence of home. Explore native trails, immerse yourself in the pure tranquillity of the land, and embrace your wildlife.
Delamore Lodge is a small luxury resort hotel located in a spectacular setting on Waiheke Island. Delamore Lodge offers some of the most stunning luxury accommodation in the Auckland region and boasts an infinity swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna and day spa. With stunning, breath-taking views, superior facilities, first-class service and scrumptious cuisine, Delamore Lodge is the perfect base for those seeking the ultimate holiday experience.
Wharekauhau Lodge is regarded as one of the top luxury lodges in New Zealand. At Wharekauhau Country Estate immerse yourself in the warmth and atmosphere of life in the country. Whether you are relaxing in front of the crackling fire and watching the sea, sharing laughter and wine in the sunny kitchen, or riding an ATV across the black sand beach, your stay will be a memorable one. Embrace nature with friendly sheep dotting the pastures.
Solitaire Lodge Rotorua, one of New Zealand’s premiere luxury lodges and top luxury resorts, enjoys breathtaking views over Lake Tarawera. The subtle design brings the outdoors in, inviting you to unwind and soak up the peace and quiet of this tranquil setting. The lodge is the perfect place to simply relax, indulge and rejuvenate, left in the able hands of your hosts.
Kinloch Manor Luxury Lodge & Villa is located in Taupo New Zealand. Escape to a world of bold luxury, where intimate surroundings bid welcome and celebrate the brave of heart and the adventurous of spirit. Embark on a journey of culinary exploration, from estate to plate. Discover a truly unique golfing experience, created by one of golf’s most enduring legends, and rise to the challenge of the championship course.
Lake Rotorua Accommodation at Peppers on the Point provides exclusive Rotorua accommodation with spectacular views overlooking Lake Rotorua. The former 1930s mansion retains its distinct charm and design throughout. Peppers on the Point has a relaxed and tranquil ambiance, with lavish features and amazing views over the beautiful Mokoia Island. Rotorua is a New Zealand Maori heartland in the Rim of Fire region with a cultural history like no other.
Planning a visit to the South Island? Read about the top South Island luxury lodges here.
Posted in: Luxury Accommodation NZ
Date: March 20th, 2017, Posted by macstudio
A stay at a luxury wilderness or hunting lodge is an unforgettable New Zealand experience. Typically accessible only by helicopter or boat, these backcountry retreats offer an exclusive opportunity to immerse yourself in New Zealand’s exquisite natural beauty. These backcountry retreats frequently offer hunting, heli-skiing, boating, hunting, and fishing opportunities.
The top New Zealand wilderness lodges include:
Stay at wilderness lodges in our Wilderness Itineraries, Hunting & Fishing Itineraries, and Adventure Itineraries.
Read on to learn more about these top New Zealand luxury wilderness resorts.
Offers guided hiking, fly-fishing, heli-skiing, and hunting amidst the spectacular Southern Alps.
Minaret Station Alpine Lodge is a very unique Luxury Lodge in New Zealand. Minaret Station is New Zealand’s premier alpine experience near Queenstown and Wanaka, accessible only by helicopter. Set in a remote glacial valley surrounded by towering peaks, Minaret Station provides guests with a taste of New Zealand’s great outdoors, offering warmth and authenticity.
Offering fly fishing, hunting, mountain biking, horse trekking, walking plus spa and relaxation.
Poronui Lodge is the ultimate luxury sporting retreat, a place where you can have fun and relax in the New Zealand countryside. Located in the beautiful Taharua Valley on New Zealand’s spectacular North Island, the estate boasts some of the world’s best wilderness experiences. Be engulfed by a warm welcome, unforgettable experiences, passionate people, luxury accommodation and gourmet New Zealand cuisine.
Offers relaxation and land-based and water-based activities, from shellfish gathering to hiking.
Homewood Bay Lodge offers luxury accommodation in a unique setting featuring solitude and anonymity in the Marlborough Sounds amidst a private nature reserve, accessible only by boat, floatplane, or helicopter. Enjoy breathtaking views and exclusive use of the 1100 acre reserve with its 4 miles of waterfront. Solitude and relaxation are at your disposal. Discretion is assured.
Stonefly Lodge specialises in fly fishing experiences, offering amazing guided fishing packages and trips.
Situated on 150 acres of private forest just 50 minutes from Nelson, Stonefly Lodge offers luxury accommodation and fine cuisine. Stonefly Lodge, with its stunning remote location is central to three spectacular national parks and offers easy access to world renowned rivers, for some of New Zealand’s best fly fishing experiences.
Luxury lodge created for you to relax and unwind, fly fish, stargaze, hike, bike or horse trek.
The Lindis, New Zealand’s newest Luxury Lodge. Slow down and enjoy the stillness of nature in modern, sophisticated luxury, all while enjoying The Lindis hospitality at its best. Look out your window and take advantage of one of the top fly fishing locations in the world. Stargaze, hike, mountain bike or horse ride, the choice is yours at The Lindis.
Posted in: Luxury Accommodation NZ
Date: March 20th, 2017, Posted by macstudio
Many of the best luxury lodges in New Zealand are found on the South Island. Here, dramatic landscapes form a backdrop to exquisite properties.
Luxury lodges on New Zealand’s South Island cater to the most discerning visitor. These exclusive properties offer the finest experience, from fine gourmet cuisine and the highest standard of hosting and facilities through to spa treatments, helicopter flights, private golf, and wilderness encounters. Your host will provide an authentic and welcoming experience set against the backdrop of New Zealand’s stunning natural landscapes. Queenstown luxury accommodation is especially renowned for its views.
Read on to learn about the best lodges in New Zealand. These South Island lodges include:
Many of our South Island luxury itineraries include stays at these top luxury lodges.
Matakauri Lodge is one of the top rated luxury lodges in Queenstown and New Zealand. Just seven minutes from bustling Queenstown, Matakauri Lodge offers an alpine, lakeside retreat, nestled in one of the world’s most strikingly beautiful landscapes. Lodge rooms and suites suit singles and couples plus Matakauri Lodge also offers luxury family accommodation in Queenstown.
The Sounds Retreat Luxury Lodge is one of New Zealand’s most intimate exclusive luxury lodges serving exquisite food and fine wine in the stunning Marlborough Sounds on New Zealand’s South Island. Located just 5 minutes from the famous Queen Charlotte Track and 25 minutes from Picton and Blenheim.
New Zealand’s Ultimate Alpine Escape. Blanket Bay Lodge Queenstown, is voted as one of the worlds best luxury lodges. Nestled amidst rugged snow capped peaks on the shores of Queenstown’s Lake Wakatipu is New Zealand’s finest Lodge – Blanket Bay. Come and celebrate the art of pure relaxation and restore your physical and spiritual well-being.
Set in a World Heritage Area, Fiordland Lodge in Te Anau offers the discerning traveller style, comfort and privacy, and is the perfect base from where to explore Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, and the surrounding Fiordland National Park. The Lodge itself sits on a superb rural site with commanding views out across Lake Te Anau. With its fine wine and food, exceptionally warm staff, it is quite simply the perfect retreat on one’s journey through Middle Earth.
Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses is a contemporary country hotel located on a deer breeding farm in the South Island of New Zealand, 12 kilometres north of the renowned eco-marine town of Kaikoura. The Lodge provides luxurious accommodation on Kaikoura’s rugged coastline, a place for guests to relax in its intimate indoor/outdoor setting and a place from which you can explore the larger maritime landscape of Kaikoura.
Bay of Many Coves is set in the heart of the Marlborough Sounds nestled in untouched native bush that kisses the shoreline of the tranquil bay below. Whether you are seeking world-class cuisine, breathtaking scenery, the spirit of adventure or simply a sense of renewal, you will find it at Bay of Many Coves. Internationally-renowned walking tracks and adventure cruises await you on your doorstep. And, with world-class chefs close at hand, Bay of Many Coves are dedicated to a unique experience that is unforgettably yours.
Otahuna Lodge is New Zealand’s premier historic estate offering modern luxury in the context of a restored Victorian mansion. New Zealand’s largest private historic residence has been revitalised with luxury accommodation, glorious gardens and sophisticated cuisine. 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.
Lakestone Lodge is set in secluded grounds overlooking the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki. The lodge sits right on the doorstep of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. From your room you can enjoy uninterrupted views up Lake Pukaki to the Southern Alps and Aoraki Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain. The night sky is spectacular being located within the gold level Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.
Stoneridge Estate is regarded as one of the top boutique lodges in Queenstown & sits majestically amidst 12 acres of picturesque gardens and vineyards, with breathtaking views across Lake Hayes and beyond. Located just a 10 minute drive from Queenstown Airport and a 5 minute drive from Arrowtown. Stay in one of the three Luxurious Scenic Suites or the Honeymoon Cottage and delight with the finest food and most famous wines of the Otago region.
Mahu Whenua – a New Zealand Luxury Lodge and Eco-Sanctuary. Close to both Wanaka and Queenstown in New Zealand’s beautiful South Island, this luxury lodge is available for up to 12 guests. As a Mahu Whenua guest you will enjoy total privacy, unforgettable experiences and exquisite food and wine in a setting which spans over 55,000 hectares of majestic beauty – towering mountains, lush green valleys, native bush, forests and meandering rivers.
Hulbert House is one of Queesntown’s finest Luxury Boutique Lodges. Hulbert House provides both luxury accommodation in Queenstown and a luxury experience suitable for all discerning travellers. Situated just a short walk from Queenstown’s vibrant centre, Hulbert House is imbued with a sense of serenity. The six suites, each with their own unique decor, offer stunning views overlooking Lake Wakatipu or the Skyline Hill.
Planning a visit to the North Island? Read about the top North Island luxury lodges here.
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