A Grand tour of Australia and New Zealand

Price guide

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A Grand tour of Australia and New Zealand

Duration25 days

Price guide

From

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Destinations

Days 1–4

Rotorua

Explore the best of Australia and New Zealand, from the unbeatable Whitsundays to the awe-inspiring mountains of Milford Sound and beyond, on an epic 25-day adventure.

Trip Highlights

Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge at twilight
Enjoy a private Sydney Harbour cruise
Fly over the Whitsunday's Heart Reef in a helicopter
Take to the skies by helicopter over Milford Sounds
Whale watch with a scenic flight over Kaikoura
Hike to summit of Mount Tarawera

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Sydney Harbour cruise

Whitsunday's Heart Reef

Milford Sounds

Kaikoura

Mount Tarawera

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

Black and white illustration of two guides pointing to a building in the distance

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

Welcome to Sydney

The city of Sydney on the east coast of Australia is as idyllic is it appears from its instantly recognisable cityscape. It boasts a rich and intriguing history, famous beaches and iconic landmarks, with a diverse and friendly population, all spread around an elaborate shoreline of Port Jackson’s yacht-filled inlets, bays and rivers.

Pubs, markets, modern restaurants, theatres and galleries old and new add an exciting, sophisticated cultural air, while the fine weather and surrounding natural wonders of New South Wales make it a very outdoorsy place, and a great base from which to explore nearby beaches, mountains and national parks.

Where you could stay

Sydney

Park Hyatt Sydney

The Park Hyatt is found in the historic district of The Rocks with views of the iconic Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Interiors are modern with a contemporary and clean design. Rooms have a neutral colour scheme of chocolate and cream, naturally-textured fabrics and soft lighting ensures rooms are bright and calm. Specially commissioned paintings and artwork from prominent Australian artists adorn the walls. At the Dining Room, the hotel’s signature restaurant, diners are treated to spectacular vistas of the harbour while enjoying a French-inspired menu. The Living Room has a more relaxed atmosphere while The Bar is a stylish location in which to enjoy fine wine, cocktails and live music. For those looking to relax and let go, indulge in a treatment at the spa or take a dip in the waters of the rooftop pool after working out at the fitness centre.

Sydney

Shangri-La Sydney

The beautiful port city of Sydney plays host to the luxury Shangri-La Hotel located in the historic Rocks district. The rooms are both contemporary in design and spacious in size, soundproof windows ensuring you get the perfect night’s sleep. Guests are treated to breathtaking panoramas, views covering both the iconic Sydney Opera House as well as the vast expanse of the Harbour Bridge. After a day of exploring the city, nothing beats coming back and sitting down for a bite to eat at the world-class Altitude Restaurant. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide a beautiful backdrop as you enjoy contemporary Australian cuisine and world-class wines. The Café Mix offers all-day dining with a menu of Asian classics with a twist. For some of best views of the city, head to Blu Bar on 36 where the sparkling lights of Darling Harbour, Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House are laid out before you. The health and wellness centre provides you with everything you need to unwind. Sink into the Jacuzzi, indulge in a treatment at the spa, take a dip in the indoor pool or stick to your usual routine in the full-equipped gym.

Sydney

The Langham Sydney

The Langham enjoys a quaint location among cobbled streets and the old architecture of the historic Rocks district. Rooms are spacious with high ceilings, large windows flooding them with natural light and letting in the warm Australian sunshine. Some rooms come with a balcony from which you can enjoy views of the iconic Sydney cityscape. Stop by the sophisticated Palm Court bar for an expertly mixed cocktail and vistas of the Western Harbour, before enjoying dinner at Bistrot Remy, boasting a contemporary menu that makes the most of Australia’s finest produce. Guests can also enjoy a decadent afternoon tea served on fine Wedgwood china, along with a glass of champagne. The underground spa is an oasis of calm while the health club, indoor swimming pool and tennis court are great for those who like to stay active while on holiday.

Sydney

Capella Sydney

Balancing storied architectural features with modern design, celebrating Australia in aesthetic and ethos.

Make it mine

Dreamtime Detour

Up high

On the water

My Dreamtime ‘Ngurrumpaa’ Detour

Ngurrumpaa means ‘my relationship with my place and everything in my place’. During this unique experience, you’ll connect with the spirit of traditional Aboriginal life and culture. In the company of Aboriginal elders and passionate guides, you explore several dimensions and historical layers in the East Coast. Get an insight into how Aboriginal people lived in Australia for millennia, learning about spiritual and meaningful sites in the East Coast of Australia, discover a broad scope of Aboriginal people’s skills and talents, taste real ‘bush-tucker’ and connect to the ancient land.

Bridge Climb at twilight

Gather at the BridgeClimb office for a safety briefing and get kitted out with safety overalls before setting out on your ascent of this iconic landmark as the sun sets. In groups of up to 14 people, set out along catwalks, up ladders, and steadily to the summit of the world famous Sydney Harbour Bridge, 134m (440 feet) above Sydney Harbour. The steady incline leaves you free to focus your attention on the view that encompasses 360° of Sydney, including the ocean to the east, the mountains to the west and the harbour city surrounds.

Sydney Harbour cruise on the Emma Mei

Enjoy sailing through one of the most beautiful harbours in the world aboard the Emma Mei yacht. Your skipper will guide you through Sydney’s intriguing history, explaining all about the city’s waters, luxury homes, leafy parks, beaches and iconic landmarks.

Days 4–6

Exploring Wolgan Valley

Sat between two national parks, the Wollemi and Gardens of Stone, the Wolgan Valley is a beautiful area ripe for exploring. Head out on nature walks, horse riding, mountain biking and game drives in search of local wildlife, or get involved with the reserve’s conservation efforts. You can also learn about aboriginal and colonial history on heritage tours, hike into the surrounding mountains and experience the magnificent night sky around a campfire.

Where you could stay

New South Wales

Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley

Only two and a half hours drive from Sydney, enter a world away from it all at Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley. There is a strong focus here on reducing waste and recycling, as well as finding increasingly environmentally sustainable ways to operate. This seriously luxurious lodge is one special place. It sits in a 7,000-acre pristine nature reserve in the middle of two of Australia’s most prominent national parks. Luxury is in every detail, with opulent styling, all the creature comforts, cosy lounges with open fireplaces, and idyllic private swimming pools. The 40 villas invoke a sense of total seclusion and privacy, with uninterrupted views into the wilderness that are frequented by hundreds of friendly kangaroos, wallaroos and wombats. Each villa has a temperature controlled inside-outside pool, a lounge with inviting, large sofas and double-fronted fireplaces. The site of the hotel was originally a homestead in 1832 and the original farm buildings have been preserved and are now home to a museum. The restaurant offers panoramic views and serves up modern Australian cuisine using seasonal, local and organic produce. The star attraction of the property has to be its stunning surroundings, which you can explore by foot, bicycle, horseback or go on guided hikes and bird watching excursions. Return to the homestead at the end of the day and sink into the plush armchairs in front of the fire with a gin and tonic, soak up more of the scenery at the beautifully designed outdoor pool or head to the excellent spa for treatments which uses the hotel’s own range of organic products.

Days 6–9

Island life in Whitsundays

A chain of 74 islands, four of which boast renowned luxury resorts, the Whitsunday Islands are found in the middle of the incomparable Great Barrier Reef just off the coast of Queensland. Surrounded by the natural wonders of this marine paradise, you couldn’t be better placed to explore this natural marvel. The waves of its crystal-clear blue waters wash onto silver beaches beneath the warm sun. It comes as no surprise that these parts are celebrated as some of the finest beach spots in the country.

Where you could stay

Whitsundays

Qualia

Sitting quietly on the secluded northern tip of Hamilton Island in the Great Barrier Reef, Qualia is an alluring expression of world-class luxury and design. From the moment you arrive at this resort you will feel time slow down as you sink into the aura of calmness and tranquility, with every detail meticulously planned and no expenses spared to ensure a delight for all the senses and absolute relaxation. The idyllic sun-drenched resort is set on 30 acres of elegant landscape with fabulous views, two swimming pools, impeccable service, and a private beach – making it one of Australia’s top beachside retreats. Each of the 60 rooms offer uninterrupted views of sparkling waters, Whitsunday Islands or Australian bushland. Choose from a variety of suites with private decks, infinity pools, enormous bathrooms and floor to ceiling windows. The resorts two restaurants offer fine dining and exquisitely presented cuisine. The service throughout the resort is attentive and personable and guests are given the use of a private golf buggy to get around the resort and island – a fun and easy way to explore.

Whitsundays

InterContinental Hayman Island

Found sitting pretty on a five by three-mile private island, located in the very north of the Whitsunday Islands, you’ll find the modernist InterContinental Hayman Island. This island is filled with wonderful flora and fauna such as brightly coloured birds, wallabies and a beautiful variety of sea life along the Great Barrier Reef. The interior is extremely slick in design thanks to a multi-million-pound refurbishment, and the hard lines of the white walls and stone floors make for an interesting visual contrast to the wild and exotic vegetation surrounding it. The 160 rooms here are spacious and feature four-poster beds for the upmost comfort and style as well as offering equally roomy lounges. Bathrooms are grand in design with sleek marble and boast baths big enough for two, as well as large showers. Private balconies offer incredible views over the blue ocean ahead or the pristine pool, while rooms on the ground floor offer access to the gardens and pool area. Here you will also find six beachside studio-style villas which provide the perfect place to relax: a private courtyard plunge pool. Dining options here are plenty, with five restaurants and a bar on-site. Head to Pacific restaurant for typically Australian laid-back vibes, with contemporary Australian cuisine served with the country’s best wines and boutique beers. Or for a more bold and energetic atmosphere, head to Bam Bam restaurant, located beside the infinity pool, where you can indulge in a range of Asian cuisine. For contemporary Italian cuisine, head to Amici Trattoria where you’ll find Amalfi Coast-inspired interiors. Or for a truly romantic experience you can enjoy private dining on the beach. The hotel’s location perfectly lends itself to a range of land and water activities, such as hiking and walking trails, as well as swimming, scuba diving, snorkelling through a string of reefs and sailing on the sparkling sea. After a busy day of exploring the island’s wonders, head to the Hayman Spa where you’ll find ten luxurious treatment rooms and a range of healing body treatments.

Make it mine

View from above

Reef cruise

heart-reef-great-barrier-reef-whitsundays-australia

Heart Reef and Whitehaven helicopter flight

Experience the best views of the Whitsundays with a helicopter trip over Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet, Heart Reef, Great Barrier Reef and various islands.

MV Savannah private charter

A private charter round the outer reef is an experience not to be forgotten. You’ll board the MV Savannah early in the morning and cruise for approximately two hours to a specially selected location on the outer ribbon reefs. Typically the visibility is excellent, the marine life abundant and the coral amazing as you immerse yourself in this extraordinary natural wonder. Guests are encouraged to relax and enjoy the reef and gorgeous vessel. Lunch is served by your very own chef.

Days 9–11

Magical Melbourne

Melbourne sits at the end of Port Phillip Bay, split by the winding Yarra River, with its suburbs reaching out around the shoreline. With handsome Victorian-era architecture, museums, galleries, theatres, green parks, and an innovative art and nightlife scene, this is undoubtedly Australia’s cultural heart. It’s also a city known for a collective obsession with coffee, the aromas of roasting beans fill the air, with hip cafes and delis at every turn, and love of sport, especially Australian rules football, cricket, horse racing and motorsport.

Where you could stay

Victoria and Melbourne

Park Hyatt Melbourne

Located in the buzzing metropolis of Melbourne, the Park Hyatt is an endearing blend of the old world and the new. The hotel features 240 spacious rooms boasting Italian marble bathrooms. The suites feature dark wood, polished metal and plush fabrics some with views overlooking St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Dining at the Park Hyatt is varied, from the international inspirations of radii restaurant & bar to memorable afternoon teas which offer fresh scones, delicate desserts and a varied supply of robust teas and coffees. For that most relaxing of experiences, indulge in a treatment at the spa, take a dip in the indoor swimming pool, work out in the fitness centre or enjoy a game of tennis.

Victoria and Melbourne

The Langham Melbourne

Nestled on the bustling Southbank Promenade, The Langham Melbourne enjoys a central location and magnificent views. The 388 Rooms are classic and comfortable with rich fabrics, large windows looking out over either the Yarra River or the sparkling city skyline. Some of the larger rooms and suites feature private balconies from which to soak up the sun and the views. Guests can enjoy the open and interactive kitchen at the Asian-inspired Melba. The Aria Bar & Lounge is the perfect setting for afternoon tea or a glass of wine from the Yarra Valley, and here you can savour light bites to eat with ingredients sourced from the Tasman Sea and Victoria’s bountiful farmlands. Relax and unwind at the hotel’s award-winning wellness centre which features the Chuan Spa, indoor pool and fitness equipment.

Victoria and Melbourne

QT Melbourne

Right in the heart of the Central Business District (also know simply as the ‘CBD’), the QT Melbourne is a stylish new boutique in old cinema befitting Australia’s most creative city. Expect eye-catching artworks and installations, a buzzing rooftop bar and popular restaurant with the rest of Melbourne right on your doorstep. There are 188 suites featuring bespoke designer furnishings, timber floorboards and gel-topped beds for the ultimate night’s sleep. The Pascale Bar & Grill is influenced by European bistros and guests can get a glimspe into the behind-the-scenes goings on thanks to the open kitchen. Korean and Japanese-inspired dishes can be found in the Hot Sauce restaurant while those with a sweet tooth will want to make a beeline for the on-site cake shop. A trip up to the rooftop bar with its views over over the city, is the perfect place to end the day.

Day on the Great Ocean Road

Enjoy a day out on the Great Ocean Road. Known as the world’s most inspiring coastal drive, the Great Ocean Road stretches 550 km along the southern coast of Victoria. You follow its winding trail through the lush Otway rainforests, to the breathtaking, windswept drama of the Shipwreck Coast. Get an insight into Australian surfing culture at Bells Beach, with rugged cliffs and big waves. Discover seaside villages such as the popular town of Lorne, where you can stroll on the stunning beach before stopping at Kennett River where high in the trees is a colony of wild koalas. Head inland through the towering forests, your first stop, the Twelve Apostles, the central feature of the spectacular Port Campbell National Park. There will also be time to go to Loch Ard Gorge and hear stories from your guide about the tragic and romantic shipwreck whilst marvelling at the landmark.

Days 11–13

Unwind on Mornington Peninsula

Spend the next couple of days relaxing at the serene Jackalope Hotel, where you’ll find an outdoor pool and a fantastic art gallery for your viewing pleasure. The Mornington Peninsula has long been a beloved destination for coastal getaways and cozy winter retreats. In the warmer months, you’ll find inviting swimming and surf beaches, along with seaside restaurants and local markets. For thrill-seekers, the region offers adventure gardens, marine activities, and iconic attractions.

Where you could stay

Victoria and Melbourne

Jackalope Hotel

The Jackalope is an ambitious boutique hotel blending art, design, fine dining, story telling, glamour and a hint of the surreal to the surrounding Willow Creek vineyard setting. It takes it name from the legendary giant horned jackrabbit, an enormous statue of which sits out front, along with a other site-specific art installations spread across the public spaces There are 46 starkly monochrome yet welcoming rooms with wonderful views and one off design pieces created by a whole host of Melbourne creatives. Outside you’ll find a black infinity pool and a yoga lawn. Restaurants include the headline Doot Doot Doot, with a contemporary four- or eight-course dégustation menu, and Rare Hare, a more casual option with all-day dining. The 19th century McCormick House, has stood gracefully at the end of Jackalope’s meandering driveway, has been reborn as the hotel’s bar, Flaggerdoot. Just a one hour drive from Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula has long been known as Melbourne’s weekend playground, offering some of Australia’s best food and wine, golf, adventure, beach and leisure activities.

Days 13–16

Picturesque Queenstown

Queenstown is one of New Zealand’s most picturesque towns, sitting on the tip of the crystal clear Lake Wakatipu. It’s a bustling hub of international and local visitors come to seek out one of the endless thrills on offer here from skiing, white water rafting, canyon swinging, jet boating, mountain biking and bungy jumping. But Queenstown is not just a gathering point for adrenaline junkies, slow down to the cosmopolitan pace of life and you’ll discover its flourishing arts scene, excellent vineyards, fine dining, international-standard golf courses and quiet lakeside shores where you can take in the incredible scenery.

Where you could stay

Queenstown and Wanaka

Eichardt’s Private Hotel

With a history intertwined with the region’s gold rush, the building of Eichardt’s Private Hotel carries with it the understated and classic elegance of a bygone era. With sweeping views of Lake Wakatipu’s emerald blue waters and eminent mountain peaks, it is a gateway to Queenstown and the untouched wilderness beyond. Choose from Eichardt’s lake view or mountain view suites, or the one- or two-bedroom apartments. For more privacy, or for those looking for a group getaway or family foray, there is the stand-alone three-bed Eichardt’s Residence which has a spacious kitchen, private dining area and sweeping balconies. The hotel bar has been considered a town favourite since 1867, providing the perfect environment in which friends and colleagues can sit down for a refreshing cocktail or a refined vintage from the famed Otago wine region. For those feeling peckish, there are comprehensive tapas menus to suit every palate, with locally sourced seasonal ingredients. The bar also serves breakfast, lunch and dinner in a cosy dining area with a fireplace. From the hotel you can treat yourself to an extensive range of in-room spa treatments provided by a local spa, wander down to the lake edge or head into the heart of the action in bustling Queenstown.

Queenstown and Wanaka

Azur Lodge

Azur Lodge consists of nine private villas set on a hilltop overlooking the surrounding mountain ranges and Lake Wakatipu. The open-plan villas feature a lounge, dining room and a bath tub which has been set into a bay window so you can enjoy the scenic views as you soak. There is also a private sun deck from which to gaze out across the wilderness. Breakfast, afternoon tea and evening canapes are included, and there is the option to dine in the main lodge or in the privacy of your villa. You are conveniently located just 20 minutes from the airport and five minutes from downtown Queenstown, so exploring this wonderful part of New Zealand couldn’t be easier.

Make it mine

Over the falls

Raise a glass

Helicopter experience: Milford Sound and Mt Tutoko

Explore Milford Sounds stunning fiord from the air. Fly the length of Milford Sound past sheer cliffs and gushing waterfalls, out to the Tasman Sea where you’ll land on a wild West Coast beach. In Milford, enjoy a short nature walk and gain that iconic Mitre Peak photo. Enjoy an exhilarating flight past spectacular rivers, valleys and mountains with blue-green ice falls, and land upon Mt Tutoko glacier in the heart of Fiordland National Park.

Central Otago wine tour

Drive over Queenstown Hill to Bannockburn in historic Central Otago. The first stop is Amisfield Estates for a private behind-the-scenes tour with the winemaker, who will show you how they craft their award-winning wines. Continue through Bannockburn’s rugged landscape to the Cellar Door at Mt Difficulty to sample more wines. Heading back to Queenstown, stop in at boutique tasting room Wet Jacket Cellar Door, which is located in a 150-year-old former wool shed. Finally drive through Arrowtown, a historic gold mining town.

Days 16–18

Quaint Kaikoura

With the swelling Pacific Ocean on one side and the snowcapped Kaikoura Range on the other – Kaikoura is a quaint peninsula village that is a base for discovering some of New Zealand’s best wildlife. It is a remote coastal community midway between Christchurch and Blenheim famous for and even named after its crayfish – in Maori, ‘kai’ means food and ‘koura’ is crayfish.

Where you could stay

Kaikoura

Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses

The work of a family of architects and builders, Hapuku Lodge is an extraordinary ecolodge perfectly placed between the white peaks of the Kaikoura Mountain Range and waves of Mangamaunu Bay. With an environmentally-friendly focus, this lodge was carefully constructed from salvaged timber and seeks to be sustainable in every area. There are four ultra-spacious rooms in the main lodge with wonderful mountain views, Japanese soaking tubs with room for two and immense custom beds – said to be the best on the island. The two suites also have their own fireplaces and a living area. However, the real stars of the show are the luxurious treehouses, standing 10m (30 feet) above the ground in the canopy of a native Manuka grove, each with a wood-burning fireplace, spa bath, open rain showers and large glass windows with a birds-eye view to the coast. There are two storey options for families, and the standalone Olive House Suite has room for two adults and up to three children. Dining at Hapuku means an organic and locally-sourced menu, with produce collected from the hotel’s own herb and vegetable gardens, free-range chicken populations and meat from nearby hunters and fishermen. Constantly changing and evolving offerings may include venison, wild blackberries, a variety of cheese, crayfish and even homemade plum ice cream. A comprehensive wine list makes sure to incorporate vintages from all over New Zealand, the ideal accompaniment to a wonderful meal. There are adventures to be had in every corner of Kaikoura’s coast, dubbed the ‘Maritime Serengeti’ by the local National Geographic. Head out on the waves in a sea kayak, swim with dolphins and seals or go whale watching to spot the gentle grey giants in the ocean blue. Mountain bikes can be borrowed from the lodge to traverse the surrounding trails while there are also Maori cultural tours, horse riding and the acclaimed surfing of Mangamaunu Bay a short walk away.

Scenic whale watching flight

Whale watching by from the air offers a unique perspective and the opportunity to view whales and dolphins in their natural environment, experiencing the true magnitude of some of the world’s largest animals, and offering a fabulous view for photographers. This scenic flight lasts for around 30 minutes.

Days 18–20

Around Marlborough Sounds

The Marlborough Sounds is made up of three main bodies of water – the Queen Charlotte, Kenepuru and Pelorus. Large areas of these ancient sunken river valleys, flooded with the Pacific Ocean, are only accessible by sea and getting out on the emerald green waters is a great way to take in their splendor. Among them there are over 50 nature reserves with numerous sanctuaries to protect the unique native wildlife. The region draws travellers keen to kayak through its inlets, hike or mountain bike the endless trails, or head out on a fishing excursion where you’re more than likely to come across a friendly pod of dolphins.

Where you could stay

Marlborough Sounds and Wine Region

Bay of Many Coves

Located in the heart of the beautiful Marlborough Sounds, the Bay of Many Coves is a tranquil haven where switching off and reconnecting with your natural surroundings has never been easier. This is a place where dolphins, orcas and seals come to splash in the waters; sweeping views of Queen Charlotte Sound greet you at every corner; and where you can meet the local wildlife during the day and relax with a Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc overlooking the bay as the day draws to a close. The Bay of Many Coves is reached by boat, cruising across a sheltered bay until you reach the resort perched on the water’s edge. Nestled within the native bush that surrounds, are a selection of one, two or three-bedroom apartments, each with their own balcony that looks out over the bay. The Kereru Suite has its own private entry and features two en-suite bedrooms, making it a perfect option for families. When it comes to eating and drinking, guests are spoiled for choice. Enjoy fine dining in the award-winning Foredeck Restaurant, brunch in the lounge and signature seafood dishes at the cafe on the jetty. Of course wherever you choose to eat, a crisp glass of local Marlborough wine is never far away. With such beautiful surroundings, you’ll want to head out and explore what’s on your doorstep. Grab a kayak or paddleboard and take to the water, go bush walking, visit the cormorant breeding colonies or head out at night to witness the spectacle of hundreds of twinkling glow worms.

Make it mine

Cook's footsteps

Private charter

Queen Charlotte Track

Step ashore at Ship Cove, in the footsteps of explorer Captain Cook, for our this rightly popular 15km (9 miles) walk. Through magnificent virgin forest you’ll emerge at the ridgeline to breathtaking views of Cook Strait and Resolution Bay, before descending to the sheltered shoreline of Endeavour inlet.

Chartered boat through the Marlborough Sounds

Enjoy an exclusive charter in beautiful Marlborough Sounds aboard the 75-year-old Kauri classic launch called Tutanekai. Explore Queen Charlotte Sound with Pete and Takutai, a Maori family who will share with you stories of the area and also do some shell fish gathering and eating on board. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the beautiful Ship Cove surrounded by virgin bush – Captain Cook’s favourite anchorage in the South Pacific.

Days 20–22

Golden Hawke's Bay

The North Island’s wine country is one of New Zealand’s warmest, driest regions with golden colours stretching across arid plains. The scene here is made up of vineyards and orchards laden with fruit, fertile farmlands that sweep to the perfect waves on the coast and laidback seaside settlements.

Where you could stay

Hawke's Bay

Rosewood Cape Kidnappers

Set atop 6,000 rolling acres of pasture-land in Hawke’s Bay, Rosewood Cape Kidnappers is the perfect place for a getaway. With spectacular views of the ocean, the luxury lodge combines the rustic and textured aesthetic of a working farm with chic modern and genuinely luxurious touches.

Progressive winery dinner

Wine glass at a vineyard in Marlborough, New Zealand

Take a scenic drive through the vineyards as you learn about the region and its wines before enjoying a full interactive wine tasting alongside gourmet platters at Vidal Estate. Take in the breathtaking panoramic views from Te Mata Peak while enjoying a glass of bubbles as the sun sets from 399m above sea level (overlooking the glimmering lights of the Twin Cities in winter). Proceed to Craggy Range or Elephant Hill for the main course served with wine. Finish the evening at the country’s oldest and grandest winery the Mission Estate for dessert and dessert wines.

Days 22–25

Volcanic Rotorua

Steaming mud pools, erupting geysers and Maori traditions all make Rotorua and Taupo a special area to visit – one that is distinctively unique to the rest of New Zealand. You’re likely to smell the sulphur-rich geothermal playground of Rotorua before seeing it, with its endless volcanic pools bubbling throughout the city. This destination is one of the most popular tourist spots in the North Island thanks to its unique thermal activity and multitude of activities. Explore and wander around the assortment of geothermal parks, or take inspiration from the locals and while away the hours soaking in the mineral-rich hot pools.

Where you could stay

Rotorua and Taupo

Solitaire Lodge

Solitaire Lodge is located in a lush environment upon the fringes of Lake Tarawera, with a spectacular backdrop of volcanoes and forest, a vista which each of the 10 stylish suites makes the most of through vast glass walls. Fine dining at the restaurant is a particular highlight here, with Solitaire’s talented chefs creating daily changing contemporary New Zealand fare prepared with fresh local ingredients, complemented by a variety of superb wines from selected regional vineyards, enjoyed in the communal dining room or somewhere more private. Head down to the lake to explore its waters aboard the lodge’s motorised dinghies and kayaks, fish from the jetty or simply swim from the private beach. There’s a spa menu to indulge in, self-guided hikes to nearby Tarawera Falls and cycle trails past some stunning geothermal sites. Scenic helicopter flights, Maori guided tours of Rotorua and more challenging hikes can also be arranged, along with a full roster of adventure sports nearby or perhaps a visit to the Hobbiton village movie set from The Lord of the Rings.

Rotorua and Taupo

Poronui Lodge

Poronui is a magical wilderness retreat, a 16,000-acre private estate in the breathtaking Taharua Valley in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island. The collection of luxurious lodgings make it the ideal getaway for hikers, anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. Dotted across the reserve, places to stay include the main lodge and seven individually appointed guest cabins that have transformed a rustic fishing camp into one of the world’s finest sporting lodges, with a kitchen serving up gourmet seasonal cuisine – much of it sourced on the estate – and a convivial feel to be found around the crackling fires. There’s also the private use Blake House, sat overlooking the Taharua River, with two grand suites as well as two bunkrooms making it ideal for families and small groups. The kitchen here is well equipped for either guest use or with your own personal chef. Finally, the two canvas and wooden huts of the rustic Safari Camp provides an authentic wilderness experience without foregoing creature comforts like crisp cotton sheets, hot running water, flushing toilets, gourmet food and fine wine. For the use of all the guests at Poronui, the stables contain modern gym and health club facilities – including steam, sauna, and massage treatment rooms. Also located in this complex is a full-sized antique English billiard table and two additional dining venues – the cabana (outdoor barbeque) and the atmospheric underground wine cellar. Activities at Poronui are suitably outdoorsy, and range from incredible fly fishing to horse riding, guided walks, hikes, cultural experiences with the Ngati Tuwharetoa tribe of the Maori, mountain biking, archery and shooting. Poronui is also close to various attractions such as the geothermal lands of Central North Island, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and adventure sport enthusiast favourite Taupo.

Make it mine

Geothermal highlights

Hot pools

Crater hike

Discovering Rotorua

Meet with your Maori guide for a tour that combines the most colourful and active geothermal area with breathtaking scenery, and forest walks. This is all intertwined with Maori stories, legends, history and songs.

Solitaire Lodge: Hot pools experience

This excursion starts with a 15-minute private launch and takes you to the other side of Lake Tarawera and near to the site of the now lost pink and white Terraces. Geothermal activity in this area yields natural thermal pools and a hot stream with bath temperature bathing – a special outdoors experience.

Solitaire Lodge: 4WD and hike to summit of Mt Tarawera

Your guide from the indigenous Ngati Rangitihi tribe, the Kaitiaki or ‘Guardians of the Mountain’, will drive you by private vehicle to the foot of the magnificent Mount Tarawera. There you will ascend part of the Maunga by 4WDrive, before beginning a hike to the 1111m Summit. Along the way, your guide will delight you with stories of the 1886 volcanic eruption and the area’s colourful Maori legends including the tale of the mysterious Phantom Canoe. Enjoy lunch on the peak followed by the descent into the crater.

“Once in a lifetime trip to India‌”

Jacada Travel (as well as their partner in India, Banyan Tours) put together an extraordinary three week tour of India for my wife and I. We've been back home for two weeks now and I still can't stop thinking about what an amazing experience we had. Our guides, particularly Sameer who was with us in Rajasthan, were really able to…

Published 06th April 2023 on Trustpilot

Donald Taylor

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.