Wildlife, adventure and helicopter rides on a 13-day family trip across the North and South Island
Personalised journeys from start to finish
Every trip helps support Conservation
Every detail taken care of
What's included
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Luxury accommodation throughout
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Private transfers
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Jet boat experience
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Full support from your travel designer and concierge before, during and after your trip
At a glance
With bubbling mud pools, beautiful islands, wonderful wildlife and adrenaline-pumping activities, New Zealand is the perfect setting for an unforgettable family adventure.
This epic 13-day exploration starts in Rotorua, a lunar-like landscape of steaming craters and erupting geysers. Enjoy an exhillarating ziplining adventure, learn about Maori culture and discover the picture-perfect village of Hobbiton made famous in the Lord of the Rings. A short flight will then bring you to Wellington, New Zealand‘s picturesque capital. Explore its museums and galleries and enjoy an exclusive tour of the Weta Studios where you can get up close to the props used in the filming of The Hobbit, The Chronicles of Narnia and more. You’ll also get up close to some of New Zealand’s famous wildlife with a night-time tour of Zealandia.
A scenic cruise along the Cook Sound will bring you to the Marlborough Sounds where the beautiful Bay of Many Coves is your home for the next two days. Explore the sparkling blue waters and swim, sail and kayak to your heart’s content. There is also plenty of wildlife of your doorstep too, including a group of resident penguins who live under the lodge. It’s then onto Kaikoura where you’ll enjoy an unforgettable whale watching boat trip and swim with the playful seals.
The last stop on your family adventure is Queenstown, New Zealand‘s adventure capital. Here you’ll take to the skies with a scenic helicopter flight to Milford Sound and get the adrenaline pumping with a jet boat ride through narrow canyons, with 360° spins thrown in for good measure.
Example trip itinerary
Rotorua
Flight
Flight from Auckland to Rotorua
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel
Accommodation in Rotorua
- 10 suites
- Restaurant
- Spa treatments
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Kayaking
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.
- 12 rooms
- The Kinloch Golf Club
- Spa
The Treetops Lodge is hidden away in 2,500 acres of ancient forest typical of New Zealand’s abundant natural beauty.
The 12 residences are varied yet all retain an exceptional level of award-winning hospitality, meaning your stay at this acclaimed eco-lodge will be both memorable and leisurely. Settle down in the lavish interiors of a secluded villa or perhaps you are in a large group, in which case the incredibly spacious Pheasant Cottage or Lodge Rooms are ideal.
Dining is a treat at the Treetops Lodge. Wake up to a gourmet breakfast, sit down to a delicious lunch of locally-sourced trout or game and, as night falls, savour dishes exploding in spectacular flavours, colours and smells. Of course, there is a comprehensive wine list of local vintages as well as a selection of fine coffees, teas and cocktails.
Maori healing rituals can be found at the spa, an environmentally-sensitive and sustainable wellness centre designed to best integrate into the wilderness around you. Ease aching muscles under the expert hands of a professional masseuse or enjoy the healing powers of a Manuka honey body scrub.
- 11 rooms
- Fine-dining
- Fitness centre
A charming mansion built in the 1930s, Peppers on the Point retains its old-world elegance and unique luxury in this, the heartland of Maori culture. With brilliant views over Lake Rotorua and Makoioa Island, your stay is one of tranquility and uninterrupted serenity.
The 11 rooms have the warm comforts and necessities of home, built originally as a large family house. Décor has about it a sense of relaxation and countryside simplicity, with various options such as villas, apartments and suites to suit all discerning tastes.
Dine in absolute contentment when seated amongst guests in the rustic hall or order food to be delivered straight to your suite. Indeed, if you wish for a more intimate setting, you can always request the private dining chamber.
Allow the stress and tension of travelling to wash away under the soothing hands of professional masseuses. Gym facilities mean you can keep yourself fit and slim while you can meet some friendly donkeys, alpaca, sheep and miniature ponies who wonder the grounds. Of course, one cannot forget to visit the geothermal pools and geysers, a highlight of a trip to Rotorua.


Steaming mud pools, erupting geysers and Maori traditions all make Rotorua and Taupo a special area to visit and one that is distinctively unique to the rest of New Zealand. Explore geothermal parks before heading into nearby native forests for hiking or mountain biking the numerous world-class trails. Lake Taupo is actually a volcano crater, the lake’s deep blue waters draw visitors with its idyllic swimming holes, reputable fishing and adventure sports. On a clear day the views stretch out over the glassy water to the snowcapped volcanoes of Tongariro National Park in the distance.

Today enjoy a guided excursion through the evergreen native forests of the Mamaku Plateau, just minutes from Rotorua. Experience one of the North Island’s last remaining remnants of untouched forest in the most exciting and unique of ways.
Take on the sights, smells and sounds of the forest on a tour where you'll see tree and bird species not seen on any other country on earth. These include centuries-old giant trees, monster tree ferns and perching plants. If you are lucky you may even hand feed wild native birds. The journey traverses a 1.2 km network of ziplines (flying foxes) walking trails, suspended bridges and treetop platforms. Along the way, your guide will bring the forest to life as you learn about its history, inhabitants and the conservation dream driving it all.
The highlight for many is the jaw-dropping 220m Tui Song zipline where you step out of the canopy of a 500-year-old rimu tree and fly over a long forgotten valley deep into the forest beyond.

Begin the evening with an immersive cultural experience with a private dinner of Kiwi cuisine with two course at a Maori family home. Next up is a magical walk on a series of suspension bridges between 22 Californian redwoods, the forest illuminated by huge hanging lanterns designed by famous NZ artist, David Trubridge.

Visit the Hobbiton movie set near the rural town of Matamata, made famous as the original setting of Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Your tour gives an astonishing insight into how these movies were made and which parts were filmed here. You will see Hobbit Holes, The Green Dragon Inn, The Mill, the iconic double arched bridge and other structures and gardens built for the films. Spectacular views extend across to the Kaimai Ranges from the rolling green hills of the movie set, which is still a working sheep and cattle farm.
Transfer
Private transfer to Rotorua airport
Flight
Flight from Rotorua to Wellington
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel
Wellington
Accommodation in Wellington
- 163 rooms and apartments
- Two restaurants and bars
- Swimming pool
- Gym
- Spa and sauna
Immerse yourself in a world of colour and texture at QT Wellington. This design-driven hotel boasts a fascinating collection of high and low-brow art.
The harbourside hotel offers guests 163 luxurious rooms and apartments to choose from. Sophisticated décor in muted tones offer a calming juxtaposition with the busy public spaces in the hotel.
A meal at French-inspired Hippopotamus Restaurant and Cocktail Bar is an experience not to be missed. The menu features a mix of comfort food and fine-dining. Or tuck into Asian-inspired dishes at Hot Sauce, where you’ll find traditional Vietnamese, Japanese, Korean and Thai flavours with a contemporary twist.
- 129 rooms
- Restaurants
- Lounge
- Gym
Lose yourself in a world of vintage bronze and golds and rich textures at Sofitel Wellington.
The 129 rooms and suites, some of which offer views out over the surrounding hillsides, are designed to be luxurious havens in which to unwind after busy days adventuring in the city and surrounds.
Go on a gastronomic journey at the sophisticated Jardin Grill, where the botanical theme of the décor combines perfectly with the gourmet menu. Dine inside, or stay warm beside the outdoor fire pit in the courtyard.
Apart from the comfortable rooms, the hotel has various other welcoming spaces for guests to enjoy. Curl up in front of a fire in the chic Lounge, or enjoy a light meal a chat with your fellow guests in The Green Room.


Nestled on rolling green hills that spill down to a charming harbour, New Zealand’s capital is an epicentre of culture and creativity - renowned for its arts, gastronomy, heritage and bohemian character. The CBD is a creative hub and easy to get around by foot. Wander pedestrianised Cuba Street to get a taste of what makes this city tick with its theatrical street performers, colourful sculptures, cafes spilling out into the road, boutique shops and numerous watering holes to sample the local craft beers and coffee that the city is renowned for. Wellington is also home to New Zealand’s national museum, Te Papa, which is well worth a visit for an interactive account of the country's history and insight into Maori culture and traditions.

A must for any film lover, this tour allows you to get up close to the props, weapons, armour and vehicles crafted for The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, District 9, King Kong, The Chronicles of Narnia and more.
You'll also enjoy a three-course meal at CoCo at the Roxy and dine among incredible artworks, movie memorabilia and sculptures.

Explore the sanctuary by torchlight as your guide leads you in search of some of the more distinctive sights and sounds of New Zealand’s native forest. Experience many of the rare and endangered species and see those which only come out at night. See unique species such as wētā, glow worms, and tuatara. Your group may see some of the 130 little spotted kiwi who call Zealandia home. Sightings of kiwi are common on these tours but are not guaranteed, and if you are lucky you may even spot morepork, pāteke, longfin eel, little spotted kiwi, Maud Island Frog, kākā, and takahē. Gain insights into New Zealand’s natural history and the significance of the unique species within Māori culture. The tour will end with a replenishing cup of hot kawakawa (bushman’s tea) in the visitors' centre.
Transfer
Private transfer to Wellington Airport
Flight
Flight from Wellington to Blenheim
Transfer
Private transfer to Picton
Transfer
Boat transfer from Picton to Bay of Many Coves
Marlborough Sounds


The Marlborough Sounds is an adventurer’s paradise where you can indulge your passions, challenge your senses, and try new things you’ve always dreamed of doing. Take to the waters by kayak or motoryacht, arrange a fishing charter, or head out in search of dolphins - including the rare Hector’s dolphin - with the chance of swimming with these incredible marine mammals. You can also explore this beautiful ribbon of coastline by hiking a section of the famed Queen Charlotte Track, go bird watching, bush walking, tour the vineyards of Marlborough or relax on your own personal beach, by the pool or at the spa.


Beviamo is a 42-ft luxury yacht and the perfect vessel for exploring the Marlborough Sounds. The boat has a twin helm and two steering wheels, making it ideal for people who want to try their hand at sailing, in the knowledge that support is close at hand. Your skipper has been sailing in the Marlborough Sounds for over 55 years and knows the area like the back of his hand. As you naviagate the tranquil waterways on this half-day excursion, you'll soon realise there is no better was to discover this beautiful part of New Zealand.
Transfer
Boat transfer from Bay of Many Coves to Picton
Transfer
Train to Kaikoura
Transfer
Private transfer to your lodge
Kaikoura
Accommodation in Kaikoura
- 12 rooms and suites
- Restaurant
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Hot tub and sauna
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.

Kaikoura, a quaint village between the snowcapped Kaikoura Range and Pacific Ocean, is a haven for wildlife fanatics and adventure sports enthusiasts alike. For the former, the region has been dubbed the ‘maritime Serengeti’, the sea here one of the best places in New Zealand to go whale and dolphin watching. For the active, there are wonderful hiking and mountain biking trails along the coast, fine surfing, sea kayaking and more.

Head out into the waters by boat and get close to the world's largest toothed predator, the giant sperm whale, in their natural environment.

Meet your guides and fellow swimming in Kaikoura where you'll be provided with warm, buoyant wet suits and snorkeling equipment before taking a short bus and boat trip .Along the way you will be given a briefing on New Zealand Fur Seals, aspects of snorkeling, seal swimming etiquette and safety. One to two experienced guides, equipped with large float boards will then accompany each group in the water. From here every tour is different as the seals are totally wild. Due to the seals natural curiosity swimmers can reasonably expect to get some interactions, some up close and personal. Generally around one hour is spent in the water before returning back to base for hot showers.
Transfer
Private transfer to Christchurch airport
Flight
Flight from Christchurch to Queenstown
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel
Queenstown
Accommodation in Queenstown
- 22 rooms
- Dining room
- Lounge
Set against a gorgeous mountain background among lush parkland, the Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel is an upmarket, eco-friendly hotel.
With a fresh and modern aesthetic, all 22 rooms and suites are furnished with a discerning eye. Stylish and modern, the Gondola rooms enjoy a private outdoor area while those in the spacious Remarkable rooms and suites can lounge on balconies, savouring beautiful views of the Remarkables mountain range.
The Tower Suite, operating as a private penthouse, is spread across two levels and features a kitchen, lounge and dining area enjoys panoramic views from the verandah and private garden. There is also a two-bedroom tower suite with a kitchen, lounge and dining area which opens onto a balcony.
The guest lounge is the perfect place to enjoy complimentary pre-dinner drinks and canapes, before sitting down to enjoy a meal made using ingredients grown in the hotel’s herb and vegetable garden.
- 10 Suites
- Restaurant and Bar
- Library
- Gym Access
Nestled in the heart of Queenstown, The Spire Hotel offers award-winning luxury combining genuine hospitality, serenity and style.
Ten spacious suites boast fine contemporary furnishings and design elements, large balconies and roomy bathrooms.
Enjoy outstanding local produce prepared with a Mediterranean twist at the in-house bar and restaurant No5 Church Lane. Choose from a variety of Otago and international wines, and signature cocktails. Featuring work by local artists and contemporary furnishings, the restaurant offers a chic yet casual place to relax.
The five-star hotel is located within walking distance of the city’s vibrant cultural scene. There are plenty of shops and cafes to explore, as well as an active nightlife and a variety of lake and mountain activities to make your stay a memorable one.
- 60 rooms and 90 apartments
- Restaurant
- Bar
With beautiful lake and alpine views, this luxury hotel on the shores of Lake Wakatipu is just a short stroll from the town centre of Queenstown. It is named after the founder of Queenstown, William Gilbert Rees, who established the tradition of hospitality in the town almost 150 years ago.
The spacious and luxurious accommodation options include 60 rooms and 90 apartments. In each of them you can relax on a private balcony overlooking Lake Wakatipu and out towards the Remarkable Mountain range.
At True South Dining Room the seasonal menu is created using the freshest ingredients from suppliers in Central Otago and is tweaked according to what is available. The chef’s team puts together creative dishes with a focus on flavour. Enjoy fine wines from around the world in the Bordeau Lounge Bar as you catch up with your fellow guests in front of the fire.


From the towering alpine ranges that envelop Queenstown, to its laidback lakeside sister Wanaka and the incredible Milford Sound, this is easily one of the most spectacular regions of the country. Seek out one of the endless thrills on offer here from skiing, white water rafting, canyon swinging, jet boating, mountain biking and bungy jumping, or slow down to the cosmopolitan pace of life in Queenstown and cool Wanaka and you’ll discover its flourishing arts scene, excellent vineyards, fine dining and quiet lakeside shores where you can take in the incredible scenery. And, of course, Milford Sound with its spectacular 1692m-high Mitre Peak (Rahotu in Maori) is unmissable.

Explore Milford Sound's stunning fjord from both the air and the water. Enjoy an exhilarating helicopter flight past spectacular rivers, valleys and mountains with blue-green ice falls, and land on Mt Tutoko glacier in the heart of Fiordland National Park. Upon landing in Milford, you'll enjoy an unforgettable cruise past sheer cliffs and waterfalls - keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, seals and penguins.

Board your twin-engine jet boat and speed across crystal-clear Lake Wakatipu at breath-taking speed, surrounded by majestic mountains and mesmerising scenery. Zoom under the Kawarau Dam onto the deep green waters of The Kawarau River, complete with lots of 360° spins. You will then arrive at the pier for a complimentary view from Queenstown's Underwater Observatory.

A short way out of Queenstown, at the head of Lake Wakatipu, lies Glenorchy, gateway to New Zealand's Mount Aspiring National Park and Te Wahipounamu. Renowned for its natural beauty, notably in the Lord of the Rings Trilogy, ride alongside and across braided, glacial fed rivers and take in the spectacular scenery, including views of The Misty Mountains, The Wizard’s Vale and The Mighty Methedras.
Transfer
Private transfer to Queenstown Airport
We design private journeys for people who wish to go beyond the typical and experiencing something truly special. Our amazing team of travel designers, concierges and local guides work together to create unique journeys that get deep under the skin of where you’re visiting.
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An Epic Family Adventure in New Zealand
How we work
With bubbling mud pools, beautiful islands, wonderful wildlife and adrenaline-pumping activities, New Zealand is the perfect setting for an unforgettable family adventure. This epic 13-day exploration starts in Rotorua, a lunar-like landscape of steaming craters and erupting geysers. Enjoy an exhillarating ziplining adventure, learn about Maori culture and discover the picture-perfect village of Hobbiton made famous in the Lord of the Rings. A short flight will then bring you to Wellington, New Zealand‘s picturesque capital. Explore its museums and galleries and enjoy an exclusive tour of the Weta Studios where you can get up close to the props used in the filming of The Hobbit, The Chronicles of Narnia and more. You’ll also get up close to some of New Zealand’s famous wildlife with a night-time tour of Zealandia. A scenic cruise along the Cook Sound will bring you to the Marlborough Sounds where the beautiful Bay of Many Coves is your home for the next two days. Explore the sparkling blue waters and swim, sail and kayak to your heart’s content. There is also plenty of wildlife of your doorstep too, including a group of resident penguins who live under the lodge. It’s then onto Kaikoura where you’ll enjoy an unforgettable whale watching boat trip and swim with the playful seals. The last stop on your family adventure is Queenstown, New Zealand‘s adventure capital. Here you’ll take to the skies with a scenic helicopter flight to Milford Sound and get the adrenaline pumping with a jet boat ride through narrow canyons, with 360° spins thrown in for good measure. | Whats included?
|
Days 1-4 |
Rotorua |
Flights & transfers
Flight from Auckland to Rotorua |
|
Private transfer to your hotel | |
Accommodation in Rotorua
•
Solitaire Lodge - $$$$$
Solitaire Lodge is located in a lush environment upon the fringes of Lake Tarawera, with a...
•
Treetops Lodge - $$$$$
The Treetops Lodge is hidden away in 2,500 acres of ancient forest typical of New Zealand’s...
•
Peppers on the Point - $$$$$
A charming mansion built in the 1930s, Peppers on the Point retains its old-world elegance and...
|
|
Three nights around Rotorua Steaming mud pools, erupting geysers and Maori traditions all make Rotorua and Taupo a special area to visit and one that is distinctively unique to the rest of New Zealand. Explore geothermal parks before heading into nearby native forests for hiking or mountain biking the numerous world-class trails. Lake Taupo is actually a volcano crater, the lake’s deep blue waters draw visitors with its idyllic swimming holes, reputable fishing and adventure sports. On a clear day the views stretch out over the glassy water to the snowcapped volcanoes of Tongariro National Park in the distance. |
|
Ziplining adventure Today enjoy a guided excursion through the evergreen native forests of the Mamaku Plateau, just minutes from Rotorua. Experience one of the North Island’s last remaining remnants of untouched forest in the most exciting and unique of ways. Take on the sights, smells and sounds of the forest on a tour where you'll see tree and bird species not seen on any other country on earth. These include centuries-old giant trees, monster tree ferns and perching plants. If you are lucky you may even hand feed wild native birds. The journey traverses a 1.2 km network of ziplines (flying foxes) walking trails, suspended bridges and treetop platforms. Along the way, your guide will bring the forest to life as you learn about its history, inhabitants and the conservation dream driving it all. The highlight for many is the jaw-dropping 220m Tui Song zipline where you step out of the canopy of a 500-year-old rimu tree and fly over a long forgotten valley deep into the forest beyond. |
|
Maori Family Experience and Redwoods Nightlights Begin the evening with an immersive cultural experience with a private dinner of Kiwi cuisine with two course at a Maori family home. Next up is a magical walk on a series of suspension bridges between 22 Californian redwoods, the forest illuminated by huge hanging lanterns designed by famous NZ artist, David Trubridge. |
|
Hobbiton tour Visit the Hobbiton movie set near the rural town of Matamata, made famous as the original setting of Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Your tour gives an astonishing insight into how these movies were made and which parts were filmed here. You will see Hobbit Holes, The Green Dragon Inn, The Mill, the iconic double arched bridge and other structures and gardens built for the films. Spectacular views extend across to the Kaimai Ranges from the rolling green hills of the movie set, which is still a working sheep and cattle farm. |
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Rotorua airport |
|
Flight from Rotorua to Wellington | |
Private transfer to your hotel | |
Days 4-6 |
Wellington |
Accommodation in Wellington
•
QT Wellington - $$$$$
Immerse yourself in a world of colour and texture at QT Wellington. This design-driven hotel...
•
Sofitel Wellington - $$$$$
Lose yourself in a world of vintage bronze and golds and rich textures at Sofitel...
|
|
Two nights in Wellington Nestled on rolling green hills that spill down to a charming harbour, New Zealand’s capital is an epicentre of culture and creativity - renowned for its arts, gastronomy, heritage and bohemian character. The CBD is a creative hub and easy to get around by foot. Wander pedestrianised Cuba Street to get a taste of what makes this city tick with its theatrical street performers, colourful sculptures, cafes spilling out into the road, boutique shops and numerous watering holes to sample the local craft beers and coffee that the city is renowned for. Wellington is also home to New Zealand’s national museum, Te Papa, which is well worth a visit for an interactive account of the country's history and insight into Maori culture and traditions. |
|
Weta Studios tour A must for any film lover, this tour allows you to get up close to the props, weapons, armour and vehicles crafted for The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, District 9, King Kong, The Chronicles of Narnia and more. You'll also enjoy a three-course meal at CoCo at the Roxy and dine among incredible artworks, movie memorabilia and sculptures. |
|
Explore Zealandia by night Explore the sanctuary by torchlight as your guide leads you in search of some of the more distinctive sights and sounds of New Zealand’s native forest. Experience many of the rare and endangered species and see those which only come out at night. See unique species such as wētā, glow worms, and tuatara. Your group may see some of the 130 little spotted kiwi who call Zealandia home. Sightings of kiwi are common on these tours but are not guaranteed, and if you are lucky you may even spot morepork, pāteke, longfin eel, little spotted kiwi, Maud Island Frog, kākā, and takahē. Gain insights into New Zealand’s natural history and the significance of the unique species within Māori culture. The tour will end with a replenishing cup of hot kawakawa (bushman’s tea) in the visitors' centre. |
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Wellington Airport |
|
Flight from Wellington to Blenheim | |
Private transfer to Picton | |
Boat transfer from Picton to Bay of Many Coves | |
Days 6-8 |
Marlborough Sounds |
Two nights at Bay of Many Coves The Marlborough Sounds is an adventurer’s paradise where you can indulge your passions, challenge your senses, and try new things you’ve always dreamed of doing. Take to the waters by kayak or motoryacht, arrange a fishing charter, or head out in search of dolphins - including the rare Hector’s dolphin - with the chance of swimming with these incredible marine mammals. You can also explore this beautiful ribbon of coastline by hiking a section of the famed Queen Charlotte Track, go bird watching, bush walking, tour the vineyards of Marlborough or relax on your own personal beach, by the pool or at the spa. |
|
Private boat charter around the Marlborough Sounds Beviamo is a 42-ft luxury yacht and the perfect vessel for exploring the Marlborough Sounds. The boat has a twin helm and two steering wheels, making it ideal for people who want to try their hand at sailing, in the knowledge that support is close at hand. Your skipper has been sailing in the Marlborough Sounds for over 55 years and knows the area like the back of his hand. As you naviagate the tranquil waterways on this half-day excursion, you'll soon realise there is no better was to discover this beautiful part of New Zealand. |
|
Flights & transfers
Boat transfer from Bay of Many Coves to Picton |
|
Train to Kaikoura | |
Private transfer to your lodge | |
Days 8-10 |
Kaikoura |
Accommodation in Kaikoura
•
Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses - $$$$$
The work of a family of architects and builders, Hapuku Lodge is an extraordinary ecolodge...
|
|
Two nights in Kaikoura Kaikoura, a quaint village between the snowcapped Kaikoura Range and Pacific Ocean, is a haven for wildlife fanatics and adventure sports enthusiasts alike. For the former, the region has been dubbed the ‘maritime Serengeti’, the sea here one of the best places in New Zealand to go whale and dolphin watching. For the active, there are wonderful hiking and mountain biking trails along the coast, fine surfing, sea kayaking and more. |
|
Whale watching boat trip Head out into the waters by boat and get close to the world's largest toothed predator, the giant sperm whale, in their natural environment. |
|
Seal Swim Kaikoura Meet your guides and fellow swimming in Kaikoura where you'll be provided with warm, buoyant wet suits and snorkeling equipment before taking a short bus and boat trip .Along the way you will be given a briefing on New Zealand Fur Seals, aspects of snorkeling, seal swimming etiquette and safety. One to two experienced guides, equipped with large float boards will then accompany each group in the water. From here every tour is different as the seals are totally wild. Due to the seals natural curiosity swimmers can reasonably expect to get some interactions, some up close and personal. Generally around one hour is spent in the water before returning back to base for hot showers. |
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Christchurch airport |
|
Flight from Christchurch to Queenstown | |
Private transfer to your hotel | |
Days 10-13 |
Queenstown |
Accommodation in Queenstown
•
Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel - $$$$$
Set against a gorgeous mountain background among lush parkland, the Queenstown Park Boutique...
•
The Spire Hotel Queenstown - $$$$$
Nestled in the heart of Queenstown, The Spire Hotel offers award-winning luxury combining...
•
The Rees Apartments - $$$$$
With beautiful lake and alpine views, this luxury hotel on the shores of Lake Wakatipu is...
|
|
Three nights in Queenstown From the towering alpine ranges that envelop Queenstown, to its laidback lakeside sister Wanaka and the incredible Milford Sound, this is easily one of the most spectacular regions of the country. Seek out one of the endless thrills on offer here from skiing, white water rafting, canyon swinging, jet boating, mountain biking and bungy jumping, or slow down to the cosmopolitan pace of life in Queenstown and cool Wanaka and you’ll discover its flourishing arts scene, excellent vineyards, fine dining and quiet lakeside shores where you can take in the incredible scenery. And, of course, Milford Sound with its spectacular 1692m-high Mitre Peak (Rahotu in Maori) is unmissable. |
|
Helicopter Experience: Milford Sound with fjord cruise Explore Milford Sound's stunning fjord from both the air and the water. Enjoy an exhilarating helicopter flight past spectacular rivers, valleys and mountains with blue-green ice falls, and land on Mt Tutoko glacier in the heart of Fiordland National Park. Upon landing in Milford, you'll enjoy an unforgettable cruise past sheer cliffs and waterfalls - keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, seals and penguins. |
|
Kjet jet boat experience Board your twin-engine jet boat and speed across crystal-clear Lake Wakatipu at breath-taking speed, surrounded by majestic mountains and mesmerising scenery. Zoom under the Kawarau Dam onto the deep green waters of The Kawarau River, complete with lots of 360° spins. You will then arrive at the pier for a complimentary view from Queenstown's Underwater Observatory. |
|
Horse ride: Dart River Stables half day tour A short way out of Queenstown, at the head of Lake Wakatipu, lies Glenorchy, gateway to New Zealand's Mount Aspiring National Park and Te Wahipounamu. Renowned for its natural beauty, notably in the Lord of the Rings Trilogy, ride alongside and across braided, glacial fed rivers and take in the spectacular scenery, including views of The Misty Mountains, The Wizard’s Vale and The Mighty Methedras. |
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Queenstown Airport |