Luxury New Zealand Food and Wine Journey
- Waiheke Island
- Hawke's Bay
- Nelson and Abel Tasman
- Queenstown and Wanaka
A 12-day culinary adventure to Waikehe Island, Hawke's Bay, Nelson and Queenstown
Personalised journeys from start to finish
Every trip helps support Conservation
Every detail taken care of
What's included
-
Luxury accommodation throughout
-
Private transfers and domestic flights
-
Winery tours and wine tastings
-
Scenic flight to Milford Sound
-
Full support from your Travel Concierge before, during and after your trip
At a glance
New Zealand’s rich soil and favourable climate means it produces some of the world’s best food and wine. Embark on a 13-day culinary journey across both the North and the South Island, visiting beautiful vineyards, world-class wineries and artisan food producers.
On arrival into Auckland, you will head to Waiheke Island by ferry. You’ll spend two nights exploring from the beautiful Boatshed lodge, perched above the sandy beaches of Oneroa. Visit the island’s wineries in the company of an expert guide and self-confessed oenophile, learning what makes New Zealand wine so special. As well as being a wonderful destination for foodies, Waiheke Island is home to beautiful beaches and boasts a number of great hiking trails.
A helicopter will bring you back to Auckland from where you’ll fly to Napier and enjoy three days exploring Hawke’s Bay, the North Island’s wine country. The landscape here is a patchwork of vineyards and orchards and you’ll have the opportunity to meet some of the region’s top food and wine producers. From Napier, the next part of your food discovery takes you to the area around Nelson and Abel Tasman, one of New Zealand’s most beautiful national parks. The last three days are spent around Queenstown, visiting the majestic Milford Sound and the vineyards and wineries around Cromwell.
Example trip itinerary
Waiheke Island
Transfer
Meet and greet at Auckland airport
Transfer
Private transfer and ferry to Waiheke Island
Lodges on Waiheke Island
- Seven rooms
- Restaurant
- Spa treatments
Sitting just above the sun-drenched bay and white sandy beaches of Oneroa, The Boatshed, is a hip, small luxury hotel, its casual and elegant atmosphere in perfect harmony with the seaside location.
With five designer luxury suites with panoramic ocean views and two stylish baches (luxury beach cottages), The Boatshed is an exciting mix of unique spaces. Suites have a nostalgic beach hut feel with louvered shutters that open out onto gardens and let the sea breeze in. The Lighthouse is the most unique and romantic suite. Spiral your way to the top of the three-storey tower past the white washed bedroom to the sunny dayroom at the top from which you can watch boats bobbing in the bay.
It’s all about al fresco fine dining at The Boatshed. Enjoy some of the finest organic produce that Waiheke has to offer. Succulent seafood and gourmet cuts of meat are complimented by produce fresh from The Boatshed gardens, and New Zealand wines.
Treat yourself to a sensory journey with a relaxing massage or treatment in the privacy of your suite. The list of treatments on offer is extensive, but pre-booking is advisable. Fully rejuvenated, take a stroll down to the beach for an ice-cream and a refreshing dip. Oneroa, Waiheke’s eclectic village of cafes, art galleries and gift shops, is only a short walk from the hotel.
- Four suites and a two-bedroom apartment
- Infinity pool, jacuzzi and sauna
- In house chef
- Wine cellar
- Spa treatments
On the beautiful island of Waiheke, just a 35 minute ferry ride or five minute helicopter flight from downtown Auckland, Delamore Lodge sits with fabulous views over Owhanake Bay and the Hauraki Gulf.
Shaped to mimic a traditional carved Maori fishhook, the curving lodge is moulded into the cliffside, with expansive terraces, panoramic windows and infinity pool orientated to face the sea.
There are four guest suites and a two-bedroom apartment, each with an intimate courtyard where you can relax in uninterrupted privacy, or soak in your bath tub and take in the view.
You’ll also find cosy lounges, cave-like Jacuzzi, sauna and a wine cellar filled with award-winning wines here. The resident chef serves up individually tailored three-course dinners inspired daily by what is homegrown and harvested locally and with the abundance of fish from the rich local waters, or you can try one of the many great restaurants and vineyards on the island.
Three days on Waiheke Island
Waiheke is a haven of beautiful vineyards, olive groves and beaches, all just a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland in the Hauraki Gulf. White sandy beaches at Oneroa, Palm Beach and Onetangi slope gently down into the Hauraki Gulf and are perfect for swimming, kayaking, or having a picnic. If you’re a walker, explore the island’s trails which meander along cliff tops, down to the beaches and into cool enclaves of native forest.
Wine tasting on Waiheke Island
Meet your guide, a local wine expert and explore the island's wineries, learning what makes New Zealand wine some of the best in the world. Of course you will have the opportunity to taste some of their signature sauvignon blanc, chardonnay and pinot noir.
Helicopter flight to Auckland
Flight
Flight from Auckland to Napier
Transfer
Private transfer to your lodge in Hawke's Bay
Hawke's Bay
Lodges in Hawke's Bay
- 22 Suites
- 4 Bedroom Owner's Cottage
- Restaurant
- Wine Cellar
- Spa
- Gym
Set atop 6,000 rolling acres of pasture-land in Hawke’s Bay, The Farm at 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.
Each of the 22 spacious suites has a private balcony with views over the farmlands, golf course and the Pacific. Ideal for a family, or group, The Owner’s Cottage offers boutique hotel facilities for up to eight people. Relax in front of the stone fireplace, or soak in the outdoor Jacuzzi.
The culinary team aims to source produce as locally as possible, and with the Cape Kidnappers’ vegetable garden now fully established, the chefs can create daily menus based on the freshest ingredients. And they are delighted when guests ask to see the garden. The pastry chef makes everything from scratch on site – from cereals, cookies and bread, to jams, pastries and ice cream.
Enhance your stay by spending an indulgent day at the Cape Kidnappers Spa on the hillside above the lodge. Soak up the views across the valley, towards the sea or over the forest to snow-capped Mount Ruapehu.
There are a broad mix of activities on offer here, seasonal and changing daily, including farm tours, guided walks, star gazing, wine tasting, clay pigeon shooting, bird watching, golf, horse treks, mountain biking and more.
- 5 Suites
- Restaurant
- Wine Cellar
- Guest Lounge
The peaceful Breckenridge Lodge is the perfect place to experience superb Kiwi hospitality, gourmet food, local wine and beautiful scenery.
Nestled in the picturesque valley of Omarunui in Hawke’s Bay Wine Country, the lodge offers private, luxury accommodation and the freedom to explore the two acres of gardens and surrounding countryside.
Make yourself at home in one of five well-appointed guest rooms which overlook the vineyard and expansive rural landscape. The guest dining room is the focal point of the house. With its inviting, relaxed atmosphere, it’s the ideal place to swap stories with other guests and share tales of your day’s adventures in Hawke’s Bay. Or simply immerse yourself in one of the books or albums available to enjoy.
Host and Chef Malcolm Redmond uses fresh seasonal produce from his own organic garden and orchard, as well as local markets. The dinner menu features five courses, each paired with wine, and changes according to what produce is available. For those inspired by the chef’s sumptuous feasts, there are also cooking classes in which he shares some of his tips.
The lodge is committed to continually working towards the best environmentally conscious business practices – finding the balance between luxury and responsibility.
- 3 Suites
- 2 Lodge Rooms
- Cottage
- Dining Room
- Billiard Room
- Gym
- Swimming Pool
This intimate, serene and historic homestead is situated in the heart of Hawke’s Bay, with over 50 wineries, farmers’ markets and organic produce stores nearby.
Perched on a hilltop with mature trees, overlooking verdant farmlands, the homestead features suites which open out onto wide verandas overlooking the gardens.
The lodge includes three suites, two lodge rooms and a separate cottage with an outdoor bath. Four of the suites are named for notable characters in Greenhill’s history, from the first owner, Archibald McLean, to the architect who designed the lodge. Floor-to-ceiling windows with hand-painted lead lights look out onto country vistas, the central courtyard or pottage herb garden. The cottage is the perfect secluded hideaway for honeymooners or families with children.
The area is known as the ‘fruit bowl of New Zealand’ and Greenhill proudly showcases the best of what Hawke’s Bay has to offer when it comes to gourmet food and fine wines. Pairings are a speciality and the lodge tailors a four-course Table d’hote menu to guests’ preferences. Or enjoy a picnic hamper in the gardens.
To make the most of the lodge’s vantage, climb to the top of the three-storey viewing turret which sports a small sitting room complete with a telescope. The old homestead stables have been converted into a gym, and there is also an outdoor recreational area, swimming pool and log fireplace.
Explore the area taking in the surrounding vineyard, cycle through the rolling hills, fly fish on a Hawke’s Bay river or try any number of equestrian experiences from polo to rides on the beach.
Three days Exploring 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.
Hawke’s Bay food and wine tour
Become absorbed into the vibrant world of Hawke’s Bay wine. You'll have the chance to meet the people passionate about crafting world-class wine, visit some of the best wineries, and taste their award-winning labels. Rich soils and warm growing conditions attract innovative food producers and you'll get to sample a myriad of delicious products.
Flight
Flight from Hawke's Bay to Nelson
Transfer
Private transfer to your lodge in Nelson
Nelson and Abel Tasman
Lodges near Nelson and Abel Tasman
- 3 suites
- Gourmet food
- Infinity pool
- Mountain biking
- Cooking classes
- Spa treatments
- Sea kayaking
High above Tasman Bay, Split Apple Retreat offers both every indulgence as well as the promise of a focus on good health.
This quiet Abel Tasman National Park luxury retreat and wellness hideaway is the ideal place to relax and pamper yourself in pristine surrounds.
Two of the ocean-facing rooms, Fuji and Lotus, boast the best in Japanese-style luxury with private decks and gardens and Japanese granite baths. The third, Rainbow, a two-level room with a separate lounge, features colour-changing LED lights in the bath and shower.
Split Apple retreat specialises in serving gourmet food with a focus on good health and mouth-watering presentation. The result of a collaboration between a doctor specialising in nutrition and a culinary artist, the retreat has become known for its dedication to fine food that promotes longevity. To ensure guests can continue eating mindfully at home, the chef guides budding culinary artists through a number of her popular dishes.
Continuing the focus on wellness, there are a wide range of services to help guests unwind, relax and rejuvenate. Choose from a selection of massage treatments, learn how to meditate, or sign up for a private yoga session. The gym, infrared sauna, steam room and infinity pool leave guests feeling thoroughly refreshed. For adventuring beyond the lodge, private boats and water taxis land at Split Apple Beach to collect guests keen on visiting the Abel Tasman National Park.
- Five rooms
- Swimming pool
- Tennis court
- Massage facilities
Stroll along garden pathways towards the shoreline where your stylish suite awaits. Each of the apartment-style villas at Te Koi – The Lodge at Bronte is nestled among mature native trees, allowing for the ultimate in privacy.
The spacious rooms are beautifully appointed with fresh flowers and locally commissioned art adding splashes of freshness and detail. Large windows and patio doors allow fresh country air and sunshine to flood the rooms, and luxurious linens, home baking, and complimentary drinks and chocolates make the welcome a little warmer.
After a day of sight-seeing, relax on a wide veranda and enjoy the panoramic Waimea estuary and mountain views. The estuary is a dream for bird watchers, and the villas designed specifically to fit unobtrusively into the natural setting.
Three days exploring Nelson and Abel Tasman
New Zealand’s sunniest region has a diverse geography ripe for exploring from golden sand beaches to dense forests, the clearest fresh water lake in the world and secluded, enticing rivers. At the heart of it all is a creative, easy-going city deemed one of New Zealand’s most liveable. The region’s biggest attraction is the Abel Tasman National Park, the country’s smallest national park that frequents the front pages of tourist brochures with its dream-like golden sand beaches, emerald green waters and friendly fur seal population. Hike, boat or kayak into one of its many beaches and coves.
Nelson food foraging tour
Nelson has long had a reputation as one of the sunniest regions in New Zealand and has attracted innovative food, wine and craft beer producers from around the world. The amazing climate is ideal for many latitudinal crops and combined with the unique local and international flair of the residents an amazing array of food and produce can be found.
Among the city and surrounding hills and in the markets there is a tantalizing array of delicious treats and gourmet products that you can taste and collect. Your host will prepare and serve these as a Kiwi picnic in an idyllic setting while you relax with a glass of wine. The choice of food is wide and varied but will include different types of cheese, breads, fish, olives, nuts, fresh fruit and veg, and chocolate, as well as wine and craft beer.
You'll also visit a wild mushroom grower and enjoy a bowl of the best mushroom soup ever.
Abel Tasman day trip
Get a taste of all the Abel Tasman has to offer from the comfort of an Abel Tasman Charters' boat. You can just stay on board and relax or take one of the kayaks for a paddle. Go for a swim, snorkel over the marine reserve or be dropped off for a bush walk. Enjoy a delicious lunch and then do it all again. During the day you'll pass Split Apple Rock, Kaiteriteri, Marahau, round golden sandy bays, Adele and Fishermans Islands, and cruise on to Tonga Island seal colony. The cruise itinerary is flexible, and your friendly, knowledgeable skipper will ensure you are able to learn about the national park - if there is something to see on your day trip, like dolphins riding the bow wave or New Zealand fur seals fishing, then it can happen.
Flight
Flight from Nelson to Queenstown
Transfer
Private transfer to your lodge
Queenstown
Lodges near Queenstown
- 16 rooms
- Spa
- Dining options
Sat on the shores of the deep Lake Wakatipu, Matakauri Lodge is a tranquil haven of serene blue waters and sweeping mountain landscapes. Snow-capped peaks reach towards the sky, providing a backdrop like no other to this incredible luxury establishment.
Modern, bright and with plenty of room, the 16 suites have been styled by the highly celebrated designer Virginia Fisher. Four suites are found in the main lodge section while others have been built in a native forest with alpine panoramas. All have their own private balcony, lounge area and decadent bathroom, not to mention the cosy fireplace. The sizeable Owner’s Cottage is an idyllic getaway for larger groups or families.
Boasting a menu that changes constantly with the availability of seasonal produce, the kitchen at Matakauri Lodge focuses on a clean and fresh experience for the palate. There are a number of settings in which to savour this modern New Zealand cuisine, from the privacy of your own patio to the property’s spacious courtyards.
Located near great pine thickets, the spa provides an exclusive space where you can rejuvenate and reinvigorate your body with completely personalised treatments. Fall in love with the heated pool, let off some steam in the sauna or enjoy a leisurely time in the hot tub.
Whether you arrive to the long, warm days of summer or to a winter wonderland of snow, there is always so much to do during your stay at Matakauri. Walks and hikes dominate the area, as do scenic horse riding trails and wine tours. Avid golfers will rejoice to know a PGA-rated course is nearby; The Hills is surely one of the most stunning and gorgeously isolated round of 18 you can play anywhere in the world.
- 6 rooms
- Incredible sculptures
- Gym
- Grass tennis court
A picture of modernity in supreme wilderness, The Hills is set on 500 acres of tranquil grounds, dotted with contemporary and wondrous sculptures and stretching out to white-capped peaks that frame the horizon.
The six individual cutting-edge suites take luxury to the next level. Vast windows allow for plenty of views out to the gorgeous glacial valley, in return bathing the spacious interiors with plenty of natural light. Fireplaces and decadent en suite bathrooms ensure sophistication and comfort beyond all expectations.
Dining at the lodge is a joy, with a locally-sourced and seasonal gourmet menu. You can even join the chef in the kitchen to learn a thing or two if you like. The underground wine cellar is a unique way to enjoy your meal while sampling some of the region’s best.
After admiring the hotel’s comprehensive collection of ancient Maori art, you may want to stretch your legs around the stunning grounds or in the state-of-the-art fitness centre. Additionally, you can enjoy a set or two on the picturesque grass tennis court.
Perhaps one of the most popular attractions during your stay is the serene Hills Golf Course. Waterways and wetland can be found alongside breath-taking fairways and distinct artworks which populate the 18 holes. A recent creation, it is a championship course which hosted the New Zealand Open in 2007. The hotel itself also has its own private par 3.
- 6 rooms
- Kitchen garden
- Designed by acclaimed designer Neil McLachlan
A relic of stately Victorian elegance, Hulbert House is a luxury villa that operates as one of Queenstown’s oldest residences. Built in 1888, this boutique hotel offers historic charm with contemporary comforts and modern amenities.
Transformed by an award-winning designer, the interiors are vibrant while paying tribute to the antiquity of the property. The six luxury suites are all individually designed, carrying through a feeling of old-world opulence with extravagant, bold and fresh furnishing. Each has views over either Lake Wakatipu, Skyline Hill or the well-kept gardens.
A scrumptious breakfast of fresh and delicious ingredients waits those early morning risers, while the kitchen can provide tasty snacks throughout the day. Ideally placed, Hulbert House is found in close proximity to many of the attractions of Queenstown, with popular cafes, restaurants and shops all within walking distance. It is also only 450m from the banks of the large Lake Wakatipu and just a little further from the Skyline Gondola and Luge.
- 12 rooms
- Gourmet cuisine
- Spa
- Fitness equipment
Often adorned with flowers beneath a clear blue New Zealand sky, the rustic yet elegant stone lodge of Blanket Bay sits perched upon the shores of Lake Wakatipu. The establishment is found in an typical South Island alpine setting of vast valleys and great mountains.
There is a luxury element found throughout all the the 12 residences, from the separate chalet cottages to the spacious lodge rooms and suites, both enjoying incredible views and plenty of natural light. There is a charming antiquity to the spaces, beautiful timber beams reaching up along the ceiling and refined wooden furnishing adding to the already classic atmosphere.
When it comes to wining and dining, there is no letting up of world-class service. The menu is forever changing, making the utmost of the kitchen’s access to locally-sourced ingredients and produce. What you will find are modern, innovative takes on classical dishes incorporating fresh fish, lamb and venison and an array of fruits and vegetables grown in the region.
Forget about your troubles at the spa, embracing the unbridled pleasures of the sauna and Jacuzzi. Ease away those aches and pains with a massage by a professional therapist, ideally after a hard workout in the fitness centre or a few laps in the heated pool.
There are few other places on earth with so many activities and adventures on offer, from the numerous hiking trails meandering up mountain ranges, fly fishing hotspots in the pools, runs, rivers and smaller mountain lakes, heli-skiing in winter, jet boating and kayaking. Tackle 4WD tours and vineyard and art trails. Horse riding enthusiasts will not be disappointed with the available tracks while golfers of any calibre will surely revel in the splendour and beauty of championship-standard Jack’s Point Golf Course.
- 10 rooms
- Bar with tapas menu
- In-house spa treatments
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.
Three days exploring Queenstown, Wanaka and Milford Sound
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.
Visit the wineries around Cromwell
Enjoy some of the most spectacular scenery the South Island has to offer. See Aoraki/Mt Cook, Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki and experience the unique landscape of the Lindis Pass as you head south to Cromwell.
Located deep in the heart of Central Otago in the valley of Upper Clutha, Cromwell is a special place not to be missed. From rugged to rolling hills, two great rivers and the sparkling waters of Lake Dunstan, the natural beauty of the area is overwhelming. The Cromwell basin is home to a host of award-winning wineries; enjoy the scenery while enjoying some the world’s finest pinot noir vintages. The area also has a rich heritage past with remnants of goldfields. Wander down to the historic Cromwell Heritage Precinct for a selection of boutique shops, art galleries and cosy cafes.
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.
Other trips you may be interested in
Get in touch
Luxury New Zealand Food and Wine Journey
How we work
New Zealand’s rich soil and favourable climate means it produces some of the world’s best food and wine. Embark on a 13-day culinary journey across both the North and the South Island, visiting beautiful vineyards, world-class wineries and artisan food producers. On arrival into Auckland, you will head to Waiheke Island by ferry. You’ll spend two nights exploring from the beautiful Boatshed lodge, perched above the sandy beaches of Oneroa. Visit the island’s wineries in the company of an expert guide and self-confessed oenophile, learning what makes New Zealand wine so special. As well as being a wonderful destination for foodies, Waiheke Island is home to beautiful beaches and boasts a number of great hiking trails. A helicopter will bring you back to Auckland from where you’ll fly to Napier and enjoy three days exploring Hawke’s Bay, the North Island’s wine country. The landscape here is a patchwork of vineyards and orchards and you’ll have the opportunity to meet some of the region’s top food and wine producers. From Napier, the next part of your food discovery takes you to the area around Nelson and Abel Tasman, one of New Zealand’s most beautiful national parks. The last three days are spent around Queenstown, visiting the majestic Milford Sound and the vineyards and wineries around Cromwell. | Whats included?
|
Days 1-3 |
Waiheke Island |
|
Flights & transfers
Meet and greet at Auckland airport |
|
| Private transfer and ferry to Waiheke Island | |
|
Lodges on Waiheke Island
•
The Boatshed - $$$$$
Sitting just above the sun-drenched bay and white sandy beaches of Oneroa, The Boatshed, is a...
•
Delamore Lodge - $$$$$
On the beautiful island of Waiheke, just a 35 minute ferry ride or five minute helicopter...
|
|
| Three days on Waiheke Island Waiheke is a haven of beautiful vineyards, olive groves and beaches, all just a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland in the Hauraki Gulf. White sandy beaches at Oneroa, Palm Beach and Onetangi slope gently down into the Hauraki Gulf and are perfect for swimming, kayaking, or having a picnic. If you’re a walker, explore the island’s trails which meander along cliff tops, down to the beaches and into cool enclaves of native forest. |
|
| Wine tasting on Waiheke Island Meet your guide, a local wine expert and explore the island's wineries, learning what makes New Zealand wine some of the best in the world. Of course you will have the opportunity to taste some of their signature sauvignon blanc, chardonnay and pinot noir. |
|
| Helicopter flight to Auckland | |
|
Flights & transfers
Flight from Auckland to Napier |
|
| Private transfer to your lodge in Hawke's Bay | |
Days 3-6 |
Hawke's Bay |
|
Lodges in Hawke's Bay
•
The Farm at Cape Kidnappers - $$$$$
Set atop 6,000 rolling acres of pasture-land in Hawke’s Bay, The Farm at Cape Kidnappers is...
•
Breckenridge Lodge - $$$$$
The peaceful Breckenridge Lodge is the perfect place to experience superb Kiwi hospitality,...
•
Greenhill Lodge - $$$$$
This intimate, serene and historic homestead is situated in the heart of Hawke’s Bay, with...
|
|
| Three days Exploring Hawke's Bay The North Island’s wine country is one of New Zealand’s warmest, driest regions with golden colours stretching across arid plains. The scene here is made up of vineyards and orchards laden with fruit, fertile farmlands that sweep to the perfect waves on the coast and laidback seaside settlements. |
|
| Hawke’s Bay food and wine tour Become absorbed into the vibrant world of Hawke’s Bay wine. You'll have the chance to meet the people passionate about crafting world-class wine, visit some of the best wineries, and taste their award-winning labels. Rich soils and warm growing conditions attract innovative food producers and you'll get to sample a myriad of delicious products. |
|
|
Flights & transfers
Flight from Hawke's Bay to Nelson |
|
| Private transfer to your lodge in Nelson | |
Days 6-9 |
Nelson and Abel Tasman |
|
Lodges near Nelson and Abel Tasman
•
Split Apple Retreat - $$$$$
High above Tasman Bay, Split Apple Retreat offers both every indulgence as well as the promise...
•
Te Koi – The Lodge at Bronte - $$$$$
Stroll along garden pathways towards the shoreline where your stylish suite awaits. Each of...
|
|
| Three days exploring Nelson and Abel Tasman New Zealand’s sunniest region has a diverse geography ripe for exploring from golden sand beaches to dense forests, the clearest fresh water lake in the world and secluded, enticing rivers. At the heart of it all is a creative, easy-going city deemed one of New Zealand’s most liveable. The region’s biggest attraction is the Abel Tasman National Park, the country’s smallest national park that frequents the front pages of tourist brochures with its dream-like golden sand beaches, emerald green waters and friendly fur seal population. Hike, boat or kayak into one of its many beaches and coves. |
|
| Nelson food foraging tour Nelson has long had a reputation as one of the sunniest regions in New Zealand and has attracted innovative food, wine and craft beer producers from around the world. The amazing climate is ideal for many latitudinal crops and combined with the unique local and international flair of the residents an amazing array of food and produce can be found. Among the city and surrounding hills and in the markets there is a tantalizing array of delicious treats and gourmet products that you can taste and collect. Your host will prepare and serve these as a Kiwi picnic in an idyllic setting while you relax with a glass of wine. The choice of food is wide and varied but will include different types of cheese, breads, fish, olives, nuts, fresh fruit and veg, and chocolate, as well as wine and craft beer. You'll also visit a wild mushroom grower and enjoy a bowl of the best mushroom soup ever. |
|
| Abel Tasman day trip Get a taste of all the Abel Tasman has to offer from the comfort of an Abel Tasman Charters' boat. You can just stay on board and relax or take one of the kayaks for a paddle. Go for a swim, snorkel over the marine reserve or be dropped off for a bush walk. Enjoy a delicious lunch and then do it all again. During the day you'll pass Split Apple Rock, Kaiteriteri, Marahau, round golden sandy bays, Adele and Fishermans Islands, and cruise on to Tonga Island seal colony. The cruise itinerary is flexible, and your friendly, knowledgeable skipper will ensure you are able to learn about the national park - if there is something to see on your day trip, like dolphins riding the bow wave or New Zealand fur seals fishing, then it can happen. |
|
|
Flights & transfers
Flight from Nelson to Queenstown |
|
| Private transfer to your lodge | |
Days 9-12 |
Queenstown |
|
Lodges near Queenstown
•
Matakauri Lodge - $$$$$
Sat on the shores of the deep Lake Wakatipu, Matakauri Lodge is a tranquil haven of serene...
•
Lodge at the Hills - $$$$$
A picture of modernity in supreme wilderness, The Hills is set on 500 acres of tranquil...
•
Hulbert House - $$$$$
A relic of stately Victorian elegance, Hulbert House is a luxury villa that operates as one of...
•
Blanket Bay - $$$$$
Often adorned with flowers beneath a clear blue New Zealand sky, the rustic yet elegant stone...
•
Eichardt’s Private Hotel - $$$$$
With a history intertwined with the region’s gold rush, the building of Eichardt’s Private...
|
|
| Three days exploring Queenstown, Wanaka and Milford Sound 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. |
|
| Visit the wineries around Cromwell Enjoy some of the most spectacular scenery the South Island has to offer. See Aoraki/Mt Cook, Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki and experience the unique landscape of the Lindis Pass as you head south to Cromwell. Located deep in the heart of Central Otago in the valley of Upper Clutha, Cromwell is a special place not to be missed. From rugged to rolling hills, two great rivers and the sparkling waters of Lake Dunstan, the natural beauty of the area is overwhelming. The Cromwell basin is home to a host of award-winning wineries; enjoy the scenery while enjoying some the world’s finest pinot noir vintages. The area also has a rich heritage past with remnants of goldfields. Wander down to the historic Cromwell Heritage Precinct for a selection of boutique shops, art galleries and cosy cafes. |
