- Nelson and Abel Tasman
- Kaikoura
- Lake Tekapo and Aoraki Mount Cook
- Queenstown and Wanaka
- Te Anau
- Dunedin and Coastal Otago
A luxurious 13-day adventure to soaking up the very best of New Zealand's scenic South Island
Personalised journeys from start to finish
Every trip helps support Conservation
Every detail taken care of
Itinerary highlights
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Exploring the pristine nature of Abel Tasman
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Spotting whales in the ocean from the air in Kaikoura
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Take a memorable scenic flight around Mount Cook
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Cycle around the beautiful landscapes that surround Queenstown
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Spend a night on the blissful waters of Milford Sound
What's included
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Privately guided tours and experiences
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Whale watching, Mt Cook and Milford Sound scenic flights
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Glacier helicopter flip
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Luxury accommodation throughout
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Full support from your Travel Concierge before, during and after your trip
At a glance
Explore the beautiful bays, snow capped mountains, stunning wildlife and endless adventure of New Zealand’s South Island by road. Begin with a trip to the stunning landscapes and beaches of Abel Tasman, where you will explore the very best of this majestic national park. While here, you’ll also head to nearby Nelson for a memorable food-foraging tour.
Next, drive south to quaint Kaikoura for two nights. A haven for wildlife enthusiasts, you’ll take to the skies in a light aircraft to spot the enormous whales that gracefully cruise past this seaside town from a unique and unforgettable perspective and head out to see playful dolphins in a most magnificent setting.
Continue southward via Christchurch to your lodge close to Lake Tekapo and Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, a stunning alpine area home to New Zealand’s highest mountain. You’ll fly over Mount Cook’s peak and nearby glaciers, and visit a traditional farm where Lord of the Rings was filmed.
You’ll then reach picturesque Queenstown for a stay of three nights. This is New Zealand’s adventure and outdoor capital, so thrill seekers are well catered for here, but the town itself is typically ‘South Island’ laid back and has a charm all of its own. We can tailor what you get up to here according to what you want to do, but no trip here would be complete without Milford Sound and the towering Mitre Peak, which you’ll see from the air and by boat. You’ll also experience the thrill of jet boating and mountain bike from colonial Arrowtown, before spending a night on the waters of Milford Sound aboard a luxury cruiser. Finally, you’ll head to Dunedin and experience the wonderful wildlife of the Otago Peninsula.
Example trip itinerary
Abel Tasman
Accommodation in 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.
- One suite
- Two cottages
- Dining room
- Artists' studio
- Heliport
Get a taste of six-star luxury at Edenhouse, nestled in the serene Orinoco Valley in the heart of rural Nelson. This enchanting country retreat, set in 50 acres of private grounds and eight acres of internationally acclaimed gardens, offers guests a unique and memorable experience.
There is one large luxurious suite in the main lodge, as well as two beautifully appointed and private cottages – the Folly Cottage with one bedroom and the Garden Cottage with two bedrooms. All rooms feature pure Irish linen sheets and deluxe toiletries. Edenhouse is furnished to a high standard, with the emphasis on comfort, understated luxury and attention to detail.
As well as enjoying the sitting room, dining room, artists’ studio and library, guests can explore the expansive landscaped gardens and several courtyard areas. The picturesque valley has an abundance of native bird life. During summer the gardens offer a cool oasis, while open fires throughout the lodge ensure the winter months are toasty.
Dinners at the lodge are prepared using fresh organic ingredients, and there are fine wines from local boutique wineries included on the menu.
Mindful of the importance of complete relaxation, a highly-qualified team of therapists is on hand to provide a variety of therapeutic treatments to guests in the peace and privacy of their suites.
Located at the top of South Island, bordered by rugged wilderness and golden beaches, the lodge is near to many popular tourist attractions, including The Abel Tasman National Park.


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.

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.

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.
Transfer
Self drive to Kaikoura
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.

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.

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
Self drive to Lake Tekapo and Aoraki Mount Cook
Lake Tekapo and Aoraki Mount Cook
Accommodation in Lake Tekapo and Aoraki Mount Cook
- 4 Rooms
- Private Spa
- On-site Observatory
- Wine Cellar
- Tennis Court
On the doorstep of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, the exclusive Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat is set in a forest wilderness by the azure waters of Lake Pukaki, with spectacular, uninterrupted views towards the Southern Alps and Aoraki Mt Cook itself, New Zealand’s highest mountain.
There is a range of accommodation options, from the private two-bedroom Ashley Mackenzie Villa and the Moraine Villas that overlook the magnificent Ben Ohau ranges, to the two-bedroom Pukaki Homestead, located just 350 metres from the villa.
Breakfast provisions and a three-course evening meal are included. Visit the garden and choose your favourite vegetables for dinner. The garden is bursting with berries, herbs and vegetables – for everything else, pureness and authenticity are paramount when it comes to suppliers.
The retreat is located in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. In the company of your hosts, enjoy a superb stargazing experience. Guests also have access to a tennis court, pétanque, croquet, and curling rink (winter).
- Six rooms
- Restaurant
- Media room
This luxury lodge on the shores of Lake Pukaki prides itself on being off-grid and spectacularly situated.
The six bedrooms are beautifully appointed and comfortable. Floor to veiling windows offer uninterrupted views of Lake Pukaki and the Southern Alps.
Meals are inpired by fresh local produce and menus change daily depending on what is available. And the chef will even prepare your fresh catch for you if you have a successful day out on the water. You’ll also find some of the best local wineries and craft breweries represented on the drinks menu.
Head out into the mountains in a helicopter, enjoy a relaxing massage, go cycling through the countryside, or star gaze from your own private bathtub.
- Two suites
- Dining room
Located near the shores of Lake Tekapo and just a short walk from the Church of the Good Shepherd, are Alpine Suites on Tekapo.
With just two suites, guests will feel right at home here. Bright and airy, rooms feature private outdoor decks from where you will enjoy views of Lake Tekapo and the Two Thumb Mountain Range. Owner Kevin Bowie is a fine art landscape photographer and beautiful images of New Zealand’s stunning scenery are displayed on the walls.
Breakfast is served in the dining room which enjoys views of the lake and the Southern Alps and guests will also enjoy complimentary New Zealand wines and craft beers along with local smoked salmon, cheeses and chutneys.
You’re ideally located to explore Lake Tekapo as well as Lake Pukaki which is less than a hour away.

New Zealand’s highest peak, Aroaki Mount Cook, is an arresting sight dominating the skyline of the national park which surrounds it. Its traditional Maori name means ‘cloud piercer’, apt in a stunning alpine landscape where 22 other snow-capped mountains stand over 3000m, towering above flowering meadows, glacial streams and turquoise lakes. One of the park’s highlights are the brightly hued waters of Lake Tekapo, watched over by the humble Church of the Good Shepherd, one of the most photographed buildings in New Zealand.
A haven for climbers – this is where Sir Edmund Hillary trained before ascending Everest – the park also offers hikers dozens of stunning tracks and walks to choose from. Add to this dizzying mountain biking trails, the chance to kayak around floating hunks of ice, helicopter flights onto the enormous Tasman Glacier and even some skiing, it is an adventurer’s dream.

Take a spectacular scenic flight that explores the Mt Cook and Westland National Parks and shows you the region from a privileged perspective. You will see beautiful turquoise glacial lakes, the braided river system of the Mackenzie basin, remote high country sheep stations, and New Zealand’s highest mountain Mount Cook, as well as Franz Joseph, Fox and Tasman glaciers.

Visit a private high country beef station, Tasman Downs. Your host and property owner Ian Hayman, will treat you to a quirky but informative tour of this three-generational property, sharing insights into a wonderful family history. This property was also transformed into one of the main film sites for The Hobbit Trilogy and you will stand on the shore where ‘Laketown’ was destroyed and its residents washed ashore. Ian will tell you of how 600 crew and cast, including Sir Peter Jackson took over the property for a month and the impact that had on their lives. The tour is conducted in a rather ‘unique vehicle’ so get ready for some fun!
Transfer
Self drive to Queenstown
Queenstown
Accommodation in 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
- 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.
- 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.
- Nine private villas
- Dining room
- Private sun deck
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.


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.

Enjoy a 13km bike ride (approx. 1.5hrs) from Arrowtown through to the Kawarau Bungy Bridge. Departing Arrowtown, you'll follow the Arrow River trail downstream, crossing five bridges - including two iconic suspension bridges. The ride is grade 1-2 with some undulating hills along the way, and the scenery is absolutely spectacular.
Once you have arrived at the Bungy Bridge, you have the option to cycle a bit further along the Gibbston trail to the wineries, where you can enjoy a wine or cheese tasting before being picked up from whereever you finish.
Transfer
Self drive to Te Anau
Te Anau
Accommodation in Te Anau
- Nine climate-controlled cabins
- Hot tub
- Three decks
- Unoccupied underwater robot
- Helipad
Offering unrivalled access to Milford Sound and the Fiordland region, Fiordland Discovery’s Fiordland Jewel boat features a hot tub, helipad, king suite and cuisine made using seasonal, locally-sourced produce.
The Fiordland Jewel sleeps up to 20 people in its nine climate-controlled cabins. Each cabin has its own en-suite bathroom. The boat was specifically designed so that even while on board guests could male the most of the scenery, even enjoying the views slipping by from the comfort of their luxurious beds. Fiordland Discovery’s Rob Swale designed and built the boat himself after looking at different options around the globe. He was adamant that the 24 m, three-deck catamaran needed to have large windows in the cabins and lounge, and that the private cabins should be suitable for families.
The Swale family and crew are extremely passionate about the Fiordland area and keen to share their knowledge with guests. There is also watersports equipment on board for those who would like to spend some time kayaking, exploring in a zodiac or fishing. The boat also boasts an unoccupied underwater robot (ROV) that provides high definition underwater footage of Milford Sound and Fiordland. It is fitted with powerful lights that attract marine life, and the live footage is transmitted back to the large screens in the boat’s lounge.

For the ultimate Milford Sound experience, spend the night aboard the Fiordland Jewel. Cruise the full length of Milford Sound, learning about the history and geology, with plenty of time to view the fiord's spectacular waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife - you're bound to encounter seals and, if you're lucky, maybe dolphin and penguins too. After cruising, anchor at Harrison’s Cove or Deepwater Cove for the night. There is then the opportunity to explore nearby in the on board sea kayaks.
As evening falls, enjoy a delicious meal and relax in the company of fellow travellers or indulge in some star-gazing before retiring to your private cabin. You will also have opportunity to witness its underwater life via the state-of-the-art ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle), which explores the marine environment below the boat as you watch from the comfort of the boat's lounge. Being so remote, few people have enjoyed this amazing, untouched part of New Zealand, and even fewer have had the chance to view its remarkable underwater world.
Transfer
Self drive to Dunedin
Dunedin
Accommodation in Dunedin
- 21 rooms
This beautifully renovated, heritage-listed former warehouse is located in the heart of Dunedin. The contemporary interior makes the most of the original features, with spacious, light-filled, apartment-style rooms. The large windows offer a range of views across the city.
Just a short stroll to the city’s cafés, restaurants and bars, and within easy walking distance of many of the most popular attractions, it’s the ideal place to call home if you’re wanting to make the most of your stay in Dunedin.
From the outside, it may seem to be a bold heritage industrial building, but step inside and you’re greeted by warm, tactile, welcoming interiors. The contemporary design perfectly complements the remaining beams, plaster and brickwork that hint at the building’s past. The unique rooms are spacious with high ceilings and tall windows, but they are still warm and comfortable. Each boasts great views of the city.


The main city of the southern part of the South Island, Dunedin is a vibrant place to spend a few days. Its name is distinctly Scottish and the city has a strong and proud Celtic history. The city is full of Victorian and Edwardian architecture and its centre is compact and easy to explore. It is centered around The Octagon, which itself is surrounded by the Public Art Gallery, municipal chambers and St. Pauls Cathedral.

Visit the beautiful Otago Peninsula and its wildlife hotspots. This tour offers a glimpse into the world of tourism and conservation working together for the benefit of the wildlife, and lets you observe estuarine and marine wildlife.
Your knowledgeable guides will take you to isolated places inaccessible to others, providing the best possible viewing of unique peninsula wildlife. The private conservation area ensures exclusivity with brilliant opportunities to photograph Hooker's sea lions, yellow-eyed penguins, blue penguins, a breeding colony of New Zealand fur seals and other sea bird colonies. From a cliff face at Taiaroa, you'll watch royal albatrosses flying about the headland and to and fro from the ocean. A further 25-30 other estuarine and marine bird species are seen during the experience around the bays and lagoons.
Transfer
Car rental drop off at Dunedin 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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The Best of New Zealand's South Island
How we work
Explore the beautiful bays, snow capped mountains, stunning wildlife and endless adventure of New Zealand’s South Island by road. Begin with a trip to the stunning landscapes and beaches of Abel Tasman, where you will explore the very best of this majestic national park. While here, you’ll also head to nearby Nelson for a memorable food-foraging tour. Next, drive south to quaint Kaikoura for two nights. A haven for wildlife enthusiasts, you’ll take to the skies in a light aircraft to spot the enormous whales that gracefully cruise past this seaside town from a unique and unforgettable perspective and head out to see playful dolphins in a most magnificent setting. Continue southward via Christchurch to your lodge close to Lake Tekapo and Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, a stunning alpine area home to New Zealand’s highest mountain. You’ll fly over Mount Cook’s peak and nearby glaciers, and visit a traditional farm where Lord of the Rings was filmed. You’ll then reach picturesque Queenstown for a stay of three nights. This is New Zealand’s adventure and outdoor capital, so thrill seekers are well catered for here, but the town itself is typically ‘South Island’ laid back and has a charm all of its own. We can tailor what you get up to here according to what you want to do, but no trip here would be complete without Milford Sound and the towering Mitre Peak, which you’ll see from the air and by boat. You’ll also experience the thrill of jet boating and mountain bike from colonial Arrowtown, before spending a night on the waters of Milford Sound aboard a luxury cruiser. Finally, you’ll head to Dunedin and experience the wonderful wildlife of the Otago Peninsula. | Whats included?
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Days 1-3 |
Abel Tasman |
Accommodation in Abel Tasman
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Split Apple Retreat - $$$$$
High above Tasman Bay, Split Apple Retreat offers both every indulgence as well as the promise...
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Edenhouse - $$$$$
Get a taste of six-star luxury at Edenhouse, nestled in the serene Orinoco Valley in the heart...
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Two nights in 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. |
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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. |
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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. |
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Flights & transfers
Self drive to Kaikoura |
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Days 3-5 |
Kaikoura |
Accommodation in Kaikoura
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Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses - $$$$$
The work of a family of architects and builders, Hapuku Lodge is an extraordinary ecolodge...
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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. |
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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. |
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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. |
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Flights & transfers
Self drive to Lake Tekapo and Aoraki Mount Cook |
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Days 5-7 |
Lake Tekapo and Aoraki Mount Cook |
Accommodation in Lake Tekapo and Aoraki Mount Cook
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Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat - $$$$$
On the doorstep of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, the exclusive Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat is...
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Lakestone Lodge - $$$$$
This luxury lodge on the shores of Lake Pukaki prides itself on being off-grid and...
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Alpine Suites on Tekapo - $$$$$
Located near the shores of Lake Tekapo and just a short walk from the Church of the Good...
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Days by Lake Tekapo and Aroaki Mount Cook New Zealand’s highest peak, Aroaki Mount Cook, is an arresting sight dominating the skyline of the national park which surrounds it. Its traditional Maori name means ‘cloud piercer’, apt in a stunning alpine landscape where 22 other snow-capped mountains stand over 3000m, towering above flowering meadows, glacial streams and turquoise lakes. One of the park’s highlights are the brightly hued waters of Lake Tekapo, watched over by the humble Church of the Good Shepherd, one of the most photographed buildings in New Zealand. A haven for climbers – this is where Sir Edmund Hillary trained before ascending Everest – the park also offers hikers dozens of stunning tracks and walks to choose from. Add to this dizzying mountain biking trails, the chance to kayak around floating hunks of ice, helicopter flights onto the enormous Tasman Glacier and even some skiing, it is an adventurer’s dream. |
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The 'Grand Traverse' scenic flight Take a spectacular scenic flight that explores the Mt Cook and Westland National Parks and shows you the region from a privileged perspective. You will see beautiful turquoise glacial lakes, the braided river system of the Mackenzie basin, remote high country sheep stations, and New Zealand’s highest mountain Mount Cook, as well as Franz Joseph, Fox and Tasman glaciers. |
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Tasman Downs Tour Visit a private high country beef station, Tasman Downs. Your host and property owner Ian Hayman, will treat you to a quirky but informative tour of this three-generational property, sharing insights into a wonderful family history. This property was also transformed into one of the main film sites for The Hobbit Trilogy and you will stand on the shore where ‘Laketown’ was destroyed and its residents washed ashore. Ian will tell you of how 600 crew and cast, including Sir Peter Jackson took over the property for a month and the impact that had on their lives. The tour is conducted in a rather ‘unique vehicle’ so get ready for some fun! |
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Flights & transfers
Self drive to Queenstown |
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Days 7-10 |
Queenstown |
Accommodation in Queenstown
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Matakauri Lodge - $$$$$
Sat on the shores of the deep Lake Wakatipu, Matakauri Lodge is a tranquil haven of serene...
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Hulbert House - $$$$$
A relic of stately Victorian elegance, Hulbert House is a luxury villa that operates as one of...
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Blanket Bay - $$$$$
Often adorned with flowers beneath a clear blue New Zealand sky, the rustic yet elegant stone...
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Eichardt’s Private Hotel - $$$$$
With a history intertwined with the region’s gold rush, the building of Eichardt’s Private...
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The Spire Hotel Queenstown - $$$$$
Nestled in the heart of Queenstown, The Spire Hotel offers award-winning luxury combining...
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Azur Lodge - $$$$$
Azur Lodge consists of nine private villas set on a hilltop overlooking the surrounding...
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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. |
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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. |
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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. |
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Arrowtown Ride, Wine and Dine Enjoy a 13km bike ride (approx. 1.5hrs) from Arrowtown through to the Kawarau Bungy Bridge. Departing Arrowtown, you'll follow the Arrow River trail downstream, crossing five bridges - including two iconic suspension bridges. The ride is grade 1-2 with some undulating hills along the way, and the scenery is absolutely spectacular. Once you have arrived at the Bungy Bridge, you have the option to cycle a bit further along the Gibbston trail to the wineries, where you can enjoy a wine or cheese tasting before being picked up from whereever you finish. |
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Flights & transfers
Self drive to Te Anau |
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Days 10-11 |
Te Anau |
Accommodation in Te Anau
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Fiordland Jewel - $$$$$
Offering unrivalled access to Milford Sound and the Fiordland region, Fiordland...
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Fiordland Jewel (2D1N) For the ultimate Milford Sound experience, spend the night aboard the Fiordland Jewel. Cruise the full length of Milford Sound, learning about the history and geology, with plenty of time to view the fiord's spectacular waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife - you're bound to encounter seals and, if you're lucky, maybe dolphin and penguins too. After cruising, anchor at Harrison’s Cove or Deepwater Cove for the night. There is then the opportunity to explore nearby in the on board sea kayaks. As evening falls, enjoy a delicious meal and relax in the company of fellow travellers or indulge in some star-gazing before retiring to your private cabin. You will also have opportunity to witness its underwater life via the state-of-the-art ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle), which explores the marine environment below the boat as you watch from the comfort of the boat's lounge. Being so remote, few people have enjoyed this amazing, untouched part of New Zealand, and even fewer have had the chance to view its remarkable underwater world. |
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Flights & transfers
Self drive to Dunedin |
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Days 11-13 |
Dunedin |
Accommodation in Dunedin
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The Chamberson - $$$$$
This beautifully renovated, heritage-listed former warehouse is located in the heart of...
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Two nights in Dunedin The main city of the southern part of the South Island, Dunedin is a vibrant place to spend a few days. Its name is distinctly Scottish and the city has a strong and proud Celtic history. The city is full of Victorian and Edwardian architecture and its centre is compact and easy to explore. It is centered around The Octagon, which itself is surrounded by the Public Art Gallery, municipal chambers and St. Pauls Cathedral. |
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Otago Peninsula wildlife tour Visit the beautiful Otago Peninsula and its wildlife hotspots. This tour offers a glimpse into the world of tourism and conservation working together for the benefit of the wildlife, and lets you observe estuarine and marine wildlife. Your knowledgeable guides will take you to isolated places inaccessible to others, providing the best possible viewing of unique peninsula wildlife. The private conservation area ensures exclusivity with brilliant opportunities to photograph Hooker's sea lions, yellow-eyed penguins, blue penguins, a breeding colony of New Zealand fur seals and other sea bird colonies. From a cliff face at Taiaroa, you'll watch royal albatrosses flying about the headland and to and fro from the ocean. A further 25-30 other estuarine and marine bird species are seen during the experience around the bays and lagoons. |
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Flights & transfers
Car rental drop off at Dunedin Airport |