A Complete Reset in New Zealand
Begin your journey with a mindful forest bathe in the verdant depths of Waiheke Island, before learning the art of foraging with an expert in West Auckland. Then head down to Arthur’s Pass National Park to marvel at the towering rock formations of Castle Hill, and explore the shimmering galaxies and stars of our night sky during your stay at Flockhill Lodge. End your journey with an invigorating hike along the Routeburn Track – a chance to disconnect and reset in the wild.
Highlights
- Learn about Māori traditions along the West Coast
- Relax with a mindfulness session above the Wakatipu Basin
- Explore the limestone rock formations at Castle Hill
- Reset your pace with a tea ceremony
- Wander through the cosmos with Flockhill Lodge's telescope
- Disconnect in the nature of Waiheke Island
Bespoke trips with Jacada
We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- Privately guided tours
- Private transfers
- Meticulously selected experiences
- Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge
Itinerary in detail
Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.
Days 1–4
Explore the nature of Auckland
Known as ’The City of Sails’, Auckland is regularly voted as having the highest quality of life in the world. It’s also New Zealand’s largest cosmopolitan centre, with a lively mix of culture, cuisine, music and art. Its sprawling green spaces and easily accessible beaches invite you to slow down amid nature’s beauty. The forested Waitakare Ranges beckon for you to envelop yourself in the wild. Only a short ferry ride from Auckland, Waiheke Island offers the chance for a complete reset.
Mindful experiences in Auckland
Nature walk
Foraging
Forest bathing on Waiheke Island
This experience focuses on enhancing your well-being and invites you to connect with the nature of Waiheke Island. Let the tranquil surroundings refresh your senses. Your nature and forest therapy guide will lead you through a series of invitations to deliberately slow down and become present and mindful. Conclude with a tea ceremony before boarding your ferry back to Auckland.
Nature experience at Hotel Britomart
Head to the beautiful Waitakare Ranges by electric vehicle where you’ll visit a forest farm which supplies traditional native plant ingredients to some of Auckland’s finest restaurants. You’ll forage for herbs and plants under the watchful eye of an expert. Along the way, you’ll discover how dedicated reforestation initiatives are vital in nurturing New Zealand’s remarkable biodiversity.
Then taste the distinct flavours of your harvested ingredients, perfectly paired with artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and freshly baked breads within an open-air glasshouse nestled in the heart of the forest.
Days 4–7
Slow down in Arthur’s Pass National Park
Arthur’s Pass National Park is in the heart of the Southern Alps, not far from Christchurch. Its setting of large emerald slopes, steep gorges and wide braided rivers form the ‘back bone’ of the South Island. The park is a sanctuary for plant and bird life, such as the endemic great spotted kiwi, as well as a place for mental restoration. Here silence is your only companion, allowing you to pause and reflect amidst towering peaks and alpine fields.
Make it mine
The night sky
Ancient sites
Stargazing at Flockhill Lodge
During your stay at Flockhill Lodge, enjoy stargazing in luxurious comfort with a fire pit, or reserve Flockhill’s telescope in advance to discover star clusters, moons and distant galaxies. With no light pollution, the night sky opens up for you to explore. Wander through the cosmos and become connected to the Southern hemisphere.
A visit to Castle Hill
Step 30,000 years back in time and explore what remains of an ancient sea floor thrust upward into an alpine setting. Castle Hill is made significant by its stunning topography, and is the filming site of Narnia’s great battle scene. It also holds spiritual significance for the ancient Waitaha and Maori people.
Enjoy the freedom of picking your own path through a myriad of limestone monoliths, taking the time to disconnect from the rest of the world and ground yourself.
Days 7–10
A reflective discovery of Glenorchy
Glenorchy, located at the remote head of Lake Wakatipu and a stone’s throw from Queenstown, is encircled by the towering peaks of the Southern Alps. Its scenic landscape provides the perfect backdrop for rejuvenating experiences that allow you to slow down and connect with nature.
During your time here, you can visit one of many surreal film sites used in the famed The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies, or explore the alpine and farmland scenery on horseback. Embark on a bushwalk through native rainforest for an intimate experience in Glenorchy.
Connect with nature
Mindfulness
Hiking
A private session high above the Wakatipu Basin
Enjoy a private session of movement and breath work high above the Wakatipu Basin to disconnect and relax in harmony with nature. Your instructor will weave together a synergy of Hatha, Vinyasa and embodiment practices that collectively offer a relaxing journey.
Following the Routeburn Track
Hike down a section of the Routeburn Track (approximately 15-18 kilometres) with a private guide. Begin your hike by the Routeburn Shelter, where the track meanders hrough native beech forest. Keep your eyes peeled for native inhabitants, such as the Yellowhead Mohua, Yellow-crowned Parakeet, Rifleman and the South Island Robin. After around an hour to two hours of hiking the forest will open up to grassy flats and the Routeburn Flats Hut.
You can then choose to follow the track more steeply upwards to the Routeburn Falls, where spectacular views of the valley await below.
Why book with Jacada
Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.
Positive impact
We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.
