Immersed in NZ Nature!
Immerse yourself in New Zealand's spectacular natural beauty on this unforgettable self-drive journey. Explore Auckland's rugged west coast, indulge in gourmet food and wine on Waiheke Island, and discover the history and pristine landscapes of the Bay of Islands. Continue to the stunning Coromandel Peninsula for a sea kayaking adventure to iconic Cathedral Cove before heading south to the alpine playground of Queenstown. Stay in unique luxury eco-lodges, soak in cliffside hot pools, cycle through renowned wine country, jet boat and Funyak through the Dart River wilderness, cruise the breathtaking Doubtful Sound overnight, and explore the magical glowworm caves of Fiordland.
Day 1
Auckland
Private Car/Driver Auckland International Apt to City Hotel - Luxury Mini Van
Accommodation at The Hotel Britomart Auckland
1 Double Waitemata View Room for 2 Nights
Soulful, smart and contemporary, The Hotel Britomart welcomes guests to Britomart, the vibrant centre of downtown waterfront Auckland. Still and calm, the 99 rooms and five beautiful suites at The Hotel Britomart pair simple elegance with the luxury of tactile materials. The Hotel Britomart is at the centre of a dynamic nine-block precinct of plant-lined streets, historic warehouses and the city’s best shopping and eating.
Afternoon Wilderness Experience
Embark on a 5 hour guided tour to West Auckland. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the Tasman Sea to the Pacific Ocean. Absorb the local history and admire the magnificent views. Head further west and experience the power of the wild and rugged west coast. Feel the soft, black sand beneath your feet as you stroll along some of the most awe inspiring beaches the world has to offer. With your knowledgeable and experienced guide, your eco-tour continues with an easy walk in the lush rainforest where you hear native birdsong as you walk amongst New Zealand’s famous kauri trees and giant tree ferns. Because New Zealand has existed for millions of years separate from the rest of the world, it has evolved its own unique flora and fauna and seventy percent its native plants are found nowhere else in the world.
Day 2
Ferry Service Auckland to Waiheke Island - Return
Board your ferry and enjoy the scenic 40-minute cruise to Waiheke Island through the beautiful Hauraki Gulf. This stunning island just off the Auckland coast boasts 92 square kilometres of beautiful beaches, vineyards, olive groves, native bush and laid back seaside villages. Some sailings will include a brief stop in Devonport on the way to Waiheke Island.
Full Day Private Gourmet Food & Wine Tour
Today, on your 7.75 hour guided tour, experience succulent fresh New Zealand oysters, award-winning olive oil and other locally-produced specialty foods, accompanied by wines from some of the Island’s top boutique vineyards. Your guide will provide an entertaining and informative commentary along the way. Visit an award-winning olive oil mill followed by two vineyards, each offering a range of gourmet tastes to accompany their wines. Treats may include oysters straight from Te Matuku Bay, wild honey, the famous local green herb spread and artisan cheeses. A vineyard lunch at one of the areas top vineyard restaurants is also included.
Day 3
Today collect your rental vehicle
Drive Auckland to Russell
(232 kms/144 miles - 4 hours non-stop drive time)
Today, depart Auckland – the Queen City of New Zealand – and travel north over the Waitemata Harbour via the Hibiscus Coast. As you leave the city, pass through the scenic Dome Valley and the rural town of Wellsford. If time allows, consider a short detour to Waipu Cove, a charming seaside resort and popular surf beach along Bream Bay’s beautiful coastline. Continue driving through the dairy lands of Northland. Follow the main highway north toward the junction town of Kawakawa. From here, take the turnoff that winds through rolling hills toward the small port in Opua. Upon arrival, board the car ferry for a short but scenic ride across the water to Okiato (also known as Old Russell). Tickets are purchased onboard for a small fee. After disembarking at Okiato, take the short scenic route to your destination – the historic town of Russell.
The Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Admission and Guided Tour
The Waitangi Treaty Grounds, overlooking the Bay of Islands, is New Zealand's pre-eminent historic site. It was here on 06 February 1840 that the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed between Maori and the British Crown. On this tour you will be introduced to the Birthplace of our Nation. Walk in the footsteps of our ancestors. Learn the significance of the ceremonial waka, the flagstaff, the carved Maori Meeting House (Te Whare Runanga) and the Treaty House.
Accommodation at Heaven NZ
1 Double 1 Bedroom Luxury Accommodation for 2 nights
Perched high above the sparkling waters of the Bay of Islands, this exclusive retreat offers a refined escape surrounded by native bush and sweeping coastal views. Designed across three spacious levels, the residence blends contemporary luxury with relaxed seaside living, featuring expansive open-plan interiors, floor-to-ceiling bi-fold doors and generous outdoor decking perfect for soaking in the scenery. Three beautifully appointed bedrooms, each with a private ensuite, provide comfort and privacy for up to six guests, while the gourmet kitchen and sophisticated entertainment systems create an ideal setting for both entertaining and unwinding. A saltwater spa pool adds another layer of indulgence after a day exploring the region. Located just minutes from the historic town of Russell, enjoy boutique shopping, cafés, swimming beaches, coastal bush walks, diving adventures and endless opportunities to experience the natural beauty and laid-back charm of the Bay of Islands.
Day 4
Half Day Puketi Eco Walk
Today your experienced guide will share the tranquil, natural beauty of the Puketi forest with you where native bird song lilts through the day from dawn to dusk. You will experience breathtaking views of waterfalls, fallen giants and forested valleys on this 3 hour tour.
Free Time to enjoy your accommodation and explore locally
The Bay of Island’s main centre is Paihia, a buzzing town with a vibrant café and restaurant culture. Across the harbour from Paihia, lies Russell. An elegant town with over 200 years of stories to discover; it’s full of history, cafés, restaurants, galleries and colonial architecture. Take a passenger ferry from the end of the Paihia wharf, or car ferry from Opua, and visit New Zealand’s oldest licensed pub and oldest existing church, which is still scarred with musket ball holes from the war in 1845.
Day 5
Drive Paihia to Matakana
(177 kms/109 miles - 2.5 hours hours non-stop drive time)
Depart Paihia, set in the beautiful Bay of Islands for your journey South to Auckland. If time allows, you may like to take a quick stop in the only city in the far North - Whangarei, for some lunch along the waterfront. Pass through the market gardening and dairy lands of Northland until you reach the beautiful coast line at Bream Bay. If you have time to take a short detour, head over to Waipu Cove where a popular surf beach and seaside resort reside. Before you reach the city of Auckland, you will pass through Wellsford and adventure through Dome Valley where there are some stunning viewpoints that are worth the 5 minute stop off. Turn off in Warkworth and head towards the east coast. From there, you arrive in your destination.
Accommodation at Te Arai Links
1 Double Ocean View Room for 1 night
The accommodation options at Te Arai Links all share a luxuriously understated aesthetic and uncompromising build quality. The structures, designed by Studio John Irving Architects, blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings, so that the architecture feels that it belongs in this absolutely stunning environment. The interiors, by Jenni Kayne, combine beauty, functionality and authenticity to create spaces that are calm, relaxing and provide enduring comfort. Play a round of golf or relax in the stunning spa!
Day 6
Drive Matakana to Whitianga
(252 kms/167 miles - 3 hours 45 minutes non-stop drive time)
Depart Matakana and make your way into the City of Sails today with a short one hour drive along State Highway 1. Leaving the City of Sails, cross the Bombay Hills and head East around the base of the Hauraki Gulf - the Firth of Thames. Travelling over the historical Kopu bridge, you will now be taking on some true New Zealand country roads. Wind your way around the Kopu-Hukuai road whilst taking in the breath-taking forest scenery of the Coromandel to the East Coast of the Coromandel Peninsula. As you approach the East coast of the Peninsula, take in the scenic views of the white sand beaches and the beautiful views of Mt.Paku from Tairua. Here is a great place for a quick stop to break up the drive if you are looking for a quick coffee or lunch stop. The final leg up to Whitianga, takes you around hilly, windy roads surrounded by beautiful New Zealand native bush. Stop off at some of the many lookout points that offer breath-taking ocean views. Whitianga is located on the eastern coast of the peninsula on Mercury Bay, the home of the world renowned Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach. The town offers a range of bars, cafes and restaurants. If you have some time to spare, we recommend a visit to the Lost Spring Geo-Thermal Ocean Resort.
Accommodation at 970 Lonely Bay
1 Double Purangi Suite for 2 nights
Nestled in New Zealand native bush close to the seaside town of Whitianga, this property boasts stunning water views across Mercury Bay and Cooks Beach. Offering three beautifully presented one bedroom suites and a premier two bedroom suite. Each suite offers a spacious bedroom, an ensuite bathroom and an outdoor terrace with views of lush native bush.
Day 7
Half Day Cathedral Cove Classic Kayak Tour
The Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve opens up a sea kayaking paradise full of beaches, islands and rock gardens that are just waiting to be explored. Today, you will paddle through sea caves, interact with the local marine life and discover the thrill of kayak sailing with the wind on your back. Land at Cathedral Cove where you will be treated to cappuccinos and hot chocolates on the beach.
Day 8 & 9
Drive Whitianga to Auckland (via Hikuai-Kopu Road SH25A)
(191 kms/119 miles - 2 hours 45 minutes non-stop drive time)
Leaving the seaside resort of Whitianga, reconnect with State Highway SH25 southbound. Drive the windy roads through the stunning scenery on the rugged Coromandel Peninsula. There are several towns that are worth a quick stop at on your way, the first being Tairua with scenic views out to the twin peaks of volcanic Mount Paku and the jagged Aldermen Islands. Inside the headland, Tairua's harbour offers sheltered waters for sailing, kayaking and windsurfing. From here, continue your drive through the natural scenery of the Coromandel Peninsula. Wind your way around the Kopu-Hikuai road (State Highway SH25A) while taking in the breath-taking forest scenery of the Coromandel Ranges. Cross over the historic Kopu Bridge and make your way around the Firth of Thames and across farmland of the Waikato Plains before connecting with State Highway SH1 at Pokeno to Auckland.
Queenstown
Today collect your rental vehicle
Drive Queenstown to Cromwell
(60 kms/37 miles - 1 hour non stop drive time)
Depart the alpine resort of Queenstown today and follow the Kawarau River through the rugged Kawarau Gorge with relics of the gold rush era still clinging to the steep cliffs. The Gorge is also home to Gibbston Valley, one of New Zealand's best wine-growing regions and famous for its Pinot Noir. If time permits, visit one of the many cellar doors along the way. Also worth taking a quick stop at is the the famous AJ Hackett Bridge Bungy - jumping or not jumping, it's the World Home of Bungy and a great place to stop on this journey. At the end of the Gorge sits one of New Zealand's biggest stone-fruit growing regions surrounding the historic town of Cromwell at the junction of two mighty rivers the Kawarau and the Clutha, now harnessed to create hydro electricity.
Accommodation at Taima PurePod
1 Double Glass Eco-Cabin for 2 nights
Sitting proudly in Cromwell, Central Otago, your PurePod is an easy one-hour drive from Queenstown and Wanaka. With its breathtaking views of the rocky Kawarau Gorge and rugged mountains, this PurePod offers some of the most spectacular scenery in Central Otago. From the comfort of your luxurious PurePod, you can revel in breathtaking sunsets and picturesque mountain vistas. Furthermore, this location offers convenient access to the world famous Lake Dunstan Trail, allowing you to explore the area’s natural wonders. Your accommodation features a glass floor, glass ceiling, three large glass sliding doors and a comfortable queen bed with crisp linen. It also has a fabulous shower and bathroom. The deck is the perfect spot for relaxing in the luxury camp chairs and taking in the stunning views or grilling on the BBQ. You also have a kitchenette with cooktop, cooking utensils, fridge, cooking oil, salt, pepper, tea, coffee, sugar and fresh drinking water, as well as an assortment of games, local reference books, a telescope and a whole lot of nothing to do! If you are staying for a couple of days, set aside some time to explore other wonderful activities the region has to offer, such as exploring the flavours of Central Otago (award-winning restaurants and wineries) or jump on the Clutha River Heritage Cruise.
Day 9
Enjoy your Purepod - relax, take a stroll, nap in the sun, unwind.
Day 10
Half Day Self-Guided Bridge to Vine Bike Tour
Your 4 hour self-guided tour begins with a scenic 25 minute drive from Queenstown to Arrowtown. Explore historic Arrowtown and grab a coffee before setting off to ride the most popular section of the Queenstown Trail. Follow the Arrow River Trail to the historic Kawarau Bungy Bridge. From there proceed into the Gibbston Wine Valley, making your way to a designated winery from which you will be shuttled back to Queenstown..
Gondola Ride
Please make your way to Skyline Gondola at a time that suits and enjoy the Gondola ride to the top for excellent views of the surrounds.
The Skyline Gondola will whisk you smoothly up 450 metres to Bob’s Peak, as Queenstown drops away below you. From the top enjoy breathtaking views, which extend almost 360 degrees from Coronet Peak around to the Remarkables and on to Cecil and Walter Peaks on the other side of Lake Wakatipu
Accommodation at The Rees Apartment Hotel
1 Double Executive One Bedroom Apartment - Executive Lake View for 3 Nights
Showcasing breath taking panoramic lake and mountain views, this sophisticated property is conveniently located just a gentle lakeside walk from Queenstown’s town centre. Boasting luxurious accommodation options including hotel rooms, apartments and 5 Lake Front Residences, all offer full service, complimentary WiFi, free movies, a fine dining onsite restaurant, an extensive wine cellar, purpose-built gymnasium, complimentary ski lockers, spa treatment services, library and private jetty.
Day 11
Full Day Funyak Safari Trip with Jetboat & Lunch
Embark on this 8.5 hour tour. A truly unique adventure and a fun way to intimately experience this amazing area. Start with an exciting jet boat trip up the Dart River with all the thrills of classic braided shallow river jet boating, complete with exhilarating jet spins. Stop along the way to discover why this area is so rare and special with its ancient 80 million year old ecology. You’ll then disembark and continue your journey in an inflatable canoe. Paddle and drift on a spectacular downstream journey, with your guide providing insight to the awe-inspiring sights and stories found amidst the Dart River’s sparkling channels. Stop amongst the ancient beech forest and enjoy a buffet style lunch and take the opportunity to explore the hidden side streams, rock pools and dramatic chasms such as the beautiful Rockburn. Afterwards continue downstream to ‘Paradise’, from where you’ll return to Glenorchy by coach via a back-country route, through stunning scenery and locations that have inspired movies the world over.
Day 12 & 13
Drive Queenstown to Te Anau
(170 kms/105 miles - 2.5 hours non-stop drive time)
Today, leave the picturesque resort town of Queenstown and make your way to the gateway of the Fiords, Te Anau. The first part of your journey will skirt Lake Wakatipu in the shadow of the rugged Remarkable Ranges until you arrive in Kingston, the home of a remarkable vintage steam train. From here, continue on through to Mossburn and into the tussock covered hills. Once the highest point is reached there are magnificent views of the mountains of Fiordland to the north, south and west. After a few miles the wide panorama of Lake Te Anau comes into view.
Navigator Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise - Private Cabin
Depart Manapouri and cruise across picturesque Lake Manapouri. Disembark at West Arm and travel by coach over Wilmot Pass through dense rainforest to Deep Cove. Board your overnight vessel, which was designed along the lines of a traditional New Zealand coastal trading scow to reflect Fiordland’s heritage. From Deep Cove you will explore Doubtful Sound viewing the wilderness scenery and wildlife. You may be lucky enough to see fur seals, dolphins and in season rare penguins. Your vessel will anchor overnight in one of Doubtful Sound’s hidden arms with opportunities to go kayaking or to explore the shoreline on the tender craft. This evening enjoy a delicious three-course buffet meal (beverages at own expense). The following morning, enjoy a hearty cooked breakfast before returning to Deep Cove. Return directly to Manapouri, arriving at midday.
Accommodation at The Cinema Suites
1 Double Cinema Suites for 3 nights
Hidden away in the heart of Te Anau, the Suite is located above the Fiordland Cinema and The Black Dog Lounge Bar. It features a wall panorama where gentle forest scenes envelop the weary traveler and plush wool carpets mimic moss creeping across the forest floor. Fine Egyptian linens grace the super-king bed while luxurious lounge chairs are adorned in forest-green velvet and lavished with feather-filled linen cushions. Upon arrival check in at the Cinema, the friendly staff will be there to assist you with anything you may need for your stay.
Day 14
Te Anau Glowworm Caves
Embark on this 2.25 hour tour. Cruise across beautiful Lake Te Anau to Cavern House on the lake’s western shores. Hidden beneath the mountains is an underground network of caves lit by thousands of glowworms. The crew will share stories about the natural history and early pioneers of the region. Below ground witness a twisting network of limestone passages and the roaring whirlpools and waterfalls of the Tunnel Burn Stream. Follow the path deep underground before transferring into small boats to drift silently along the river below a display of glittering glowworms in the glowworm grotto. Retrace your steps out of the caves and return to Te Anau.
Day 15
Full Day Milford Track Giant Gate Guided Walk ex Te Anau
Depart from Te Anau and transfer to Milford Sound where you will meet your guide at the Milford Sound Wharf Complex, the 11 hour tour begins with a short boat ride to Sandfly Point. An easy 11 kilometre round trip walk alongside the cascading Arthur River, then Lake Ada, on a well maintained track takes you to your destination, Giant Gate. This scenic waterfall is best viewed from the large swing bridge. At this point you return, walking under ancient temperate rainforest surrounded by an array of ferns, mosses and lichens in vibrant shades of green. Learn about the fascinating human heritage of the track. On completion of the walk an opportunity is made for photos at the sign marking the end the track, festooned with the boots of walkers that have made it to the end of the walk, not a single step further. Rejoin the boat for your transfer back to Milford, note you will have 2 hours free in Milford Sound before boarding your coach and transfer back to Te Anau.
Day 16
Drive Te Anau to Queenstown
(171 kms/106 miles - 2.5 hours non-stop drive time)
Depart beautiful Lake Te Anau and take the scenic drive to Queenstown. The drive features trout fishing rivers and high country scenery and there are plenty of places to stop to soak it all in. The small towns of Mossburn and Lumsden can be explored for unique shopping opportunities—a farm tour is another possibility. Allow time to take a break in Kingston, the home of a remarkable vintage steam train. The route then skirts along the shore, between the lake and the sheer faces of the Remarkable Range with snow-capped alpine peaks ahead, to the resort town of Queenstown.
Drop your rental car at the airport