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ULTIMATE LUXURY NEW ZEALAND ITINERARY
Featuring the prime spots to visit in New Zealand
and some of the finest lodges and accommodations.

 
Pricing will vary with time of year - approximately US $13,500 per person.  Rates also vary according to exchange rate at time of payment.

DAY 1                         ARRIVE AUCKLAND

Upon arrival at Auckland International Airport you will be met by a representative of Southern Crossings who will hand over your documents and transfer you by private vehicle to your accommodation.

Auckland - ‘City of Sails’ is regularly voted one of the best lifestyle cities in the world. Set on the shores of the Waitemata Harbour, Maori name for ‘sparkling waters’, the city boasts marine reserves, golden swimming beaches and black sand surf. As New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland has a diverse ethnic mix providing a myriad of cultural experiences, reflected in the Pacific atmosphere and cuisine.

ACCOMMODATION FOR THREE NIGHTS IN A DOUBLE ROOM INCLUDING BREAKFAST AT:

                                    SKY GRAND HOTEL

                                    AUCKLAND

DAY 2                         AUCKLAND

We suggest the following optional activities during your leisure time:

·        Auckland Museum and Maori Challenge Performance, the surrounding Domain and nearby Winter Garden

·        Auckland Art Gallery and The New Gallery

·        Visit the Maritime Museum and enjoy dining out at the many restaurants, cafes and bars at the Viaduct Basin

·        A trip to the top of the Sky tower for magnificent views of Auckland and the Waitemata Harbour

·        Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World  

·        Auckland Harbour Bridge climb or bungy jump

·        Shopping in quaint and historic Parnell

·        Sail the Waitemata Harbour aboard past America’s Cup yachts NZL40 or NZL41

·        Cruise to Devonport – a charming historic seaside village with fine art and craft boutiques

·        Cruise to Waiheke Island – a favourite for local holiday makers with its vineyards, olive groves and sandy beaches

·        Day excursion to West Coast Beaches – unique coastal landscape, black sand and rugged surf-pounded cliffs

DAY 3                         AUCKLAND

                                    Today is at leisure.

DAY 4                         AUCKLAND TO THE BAY OF ISLANDS

Today you will be met at your accommodation by your private car and driver for your transfer to the Bay of Islands (approximately 4 hours journey).

Bay of Islands – a myriad of 144 islands in the clear waters of the glistening Pacific Ocean.  This collection of islands showcases endless marine wildlife and natural beauty with the local townships steeped in colonial history.

This afternoon your full size automatic rental vehicle including daily insurance, unlimited mileage and accident excess reduction will be delivered to your accommodation.

Please note that a jacket (tie optional) is required for gentlemen in the evenings at Kauri Cliffs.

ACCOMMODATION FOR THREE NIGHTS IN A DOUBLE SUITE INCLUDING PRE DINNER DRINKS, DINNER AND BREAKFAST AT:

KAURI CLIFFS

MATAURI BAY

BAY OF ISLANDS

DAY 5                         BAY OF ISLANDS

We suggest the following optional activities during your leisure time:

·        Relax at one of Kauri Cliffs three private beaches

·        Golf at Kauri Cliffs Course – ranked in the world’s top 100 golf courses

·        Nature bush walks/ nocturnal kiwi excursion

·        Horse riding

·        Kayaking

·        Tennis

·        Spa Treatments and yoga

·        Deep Sea Game fishing/land fishing

·        Scenic flight excursion to Cape Reinga – the northernmost tip of New Zealand

·        Swim with the dolphins

·        Scuba diving or snorkelling

·        Private boat charter to the Cavalli Islands

·        Kemp Mission House (one of New Zealand’s oldest buildings – 1822) and the Stone Store at Kerikeri

DAY 6                         BAY OF ISLANDS

                                    Today is at leisure.

DAY 7                         BAY OF ISLANDS TO AUCKLAND AND ROTORUA

Today drive to Kerikeri Airport and return your rental vehicle prior to your onward flight (approximately 35 minutes drive).

Fly Bay of Islands to Auckland and Rotorua (cost not included)

SUGGESTED FLIGHT SCHEDULE

11.30am                       Depart Bay of Islands aboard Air New Zealand flight NZ 8671

12.10pm                      Arrive Auckland

12.35pm                      Depart Auckland aboard Air New Zealand flight NZ2353

 1.15pm                       Arrive Rotorua

Upon arrival at Rotorua Airport uplift your full size automatic rental vehicle including daily insurance, unlimited mileage and accident excess reduction and drive to your accommodation

Rotorua – heartland of New Zealand’s Maori culture.  Surrounded by steaming lakes, bubbling hot pools and bursting geysers, Rotorua is host to some of the worlds most incredible earth forces, capturing all that is precious and unique – feel its spirit ~ Manakitanga.

ACCOMMODATION FOR TWO NIGHTS IN A DOUBLE SUITE INCLUDING BREAKFAST AT:

KAWAHA POINT LODGE

ROTORUA

DAY 8                         ROTORUA

We suggest the following optional activities during your leisure time:

·        Maori Arts and Crafts Institute and Te Puia Thermal Reserve

·        Agrodome Farm Show

·        Rainbow Springs Nature Park and Kiwi Encounter featuring unique flora and fauna and endangered and native species

·        Rotorua Museum of Art and History

·        Picnic at the scenic Green and Blue Lakes

·        Polynesian Spa – Thermal Pools and Beauty Retreat

·        Hell’s Gate (Tikitere) Thermal Reserve and Spa

·        Buried Village of Te Wairoa

·        Scenic helicopter flight over Mt Tarawera and White Island

·        ‘Zorbing’ – downhill ride in a large inflatable ball

·        Waiotapu Thermal Reserve (30 minutes south of Rotorua, enroute to Taupo)

DAY 9                         ROTORUA TO TAUPO

                                    Today drive to Taupo (approximately 45 minutes drive).

Taupo – ‘Trout fishing capital of New Zealand’. Dominated by the striking volcanic peaks of Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe and set on the shores of New Zealand’s largest lake the area boasts untouched, unspoilt and uncrowded scenery.

ACCOMMODATION FOR TWO NIGHTS IN A DOUBLE ROOM INCLUDING PRE DINNER DRINKS, DINNER AND BREAKFAST AT:

HUKA LODGE

TAUPO

DAY 10                       TAUPO

We suggest the following optional activities during your leisure time:

·        Spectacular Huka Falls and surrounding nature trails

·        Golf at Wairakei International course

·        Craters of the Moon and Orakei Korako Thermal Reserves

·        Jet boat ride on the Waikato River

·        Visit sacred Maori rock carvings by kayak or boat trip

·        Horse riding

·        Guided helicopter or 4WD fly fishing

·        Day trip to the Tongariro National Park

·        Taupo Hot Pools

·        Scenic helicopter flight over Mt Tarawera and White Island

DAY 11                       TAUPO TO WELLINGTON

Today drive to Taupo Airport and return your rental vehicle prior to your onward flight.

Fly Taupo to Wellington (cost not included).

SUGGESTED FLIGHT SCHEDULE

12.20pm                      Depart Taupo aboard Air New Zealand flight NZ 2511

 1.20pm                       Arrive Wellington

Upon arrival at Wellington Airport you will be met by your private car and driver for your transfer to your accommodation.

Wellington – Capital City and cultural centre of New Zealand.  Nestled between a dramatic harbour and bush clad hills, this thriving characteristic city is home to a feast of attractions including theatre, arts, parks and museums.

We suggest the following optional activities during your leisure time:

·        ‘Te Papa’ - Museum of New Zealand

·        Mount Victoria for panoramic views of the city and harbour

·        Historic house and birthplace of New Zealand’s renowned short story writer Katherine Mansfield

·        Stroll along Oriental Parade for great views of the city

·        Ride Wellington’s Cable Car to the Botanical Gardens and the Lady Norwood Rose Garden

·        Tour of the Parliament Buildings  

·        City Art Gallery

·        Bond Store – Museum of Wellington City and Sea

·        Dining out at one of the cities many cafés and restaurants

ACCOMMODATION FOR ONE NIGHT IN A DOUBLE CLUB FLOOR ROOM INCLUDING CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST AND CLUB FLOOR FACILITIES AT:

INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL

WELLINGTON

DAY 12                       WELLINGTON TO PICTON AND NELSON

This morning you will be met at your accommodation by your private car and driver for your transfer to Wellington Ferry Terminal.

  8.25am                       Depart Wellington aboard the Interislander ferry

 11.35am                      Arrive Picton

Upon arrival at Picton Ferry Terminal uplift your full size automatic rental vehicle and drive to your accommodation (approximately three hours drive).

Nelson – city of sunshine. A haven for artisans seeking a lifestyle amid a landscape of mountains, valleys, unspoilt shores and National Parks. The idyllic climate has enabled a winery and orchard trail to extend into by-roads and valleys throughout the region.

ACCOMMODATION FOR TWO NIGHTS IN A DOUBLE SUITE INCLUDING ALL MEALS AND ALL BEVERAGES AT:

THE LODGE AT PARATIHO FARMS

NELSON

DAY 13                       NELSON TO ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK AND RETURN

This morning you will be met at your accommodation by your private car and driver for your transfer to Kaiteriteri Beach.

                                      Depart Kaiteriteri for a private cruise within the Abel Tasman National Park which will be tailored to suit your interests and requirements. You will be able to enjoy one of New Zealand’s loveliest stretches of coastline where you will be taken close to the shore enabling you spectacular views of the many sandy coves and highlights. Depending on the duration of your cruise and weather conditions these may include - Split Apple Rock, historic Watering Cover, Shag Harbour, Wharf Rock, Cottage Loaf and the rugged beauty of the Awaroa Heads. You will be able to leave and return to the boat to enjoy shorts walks within the Abel Tasman National Park. Lunch has been included today.

                                    Return to Kaiteriteri Beach early afternoon and continue to

your accommodation with your private car and driver.

DAY 14                       NELSON TO KAIKOURA

                                    Today drive to Kaikoura (approximately 4 hours drive)

Kaikoura - Kai ~ food, Koura ~ crayfish - is bordered by the towering Kaikoura Mountain Ranges and is home to a rich plethora of marine life.  This idyllic seaside township is a centre of eco-tourism and is recognised as nature’s playground offering something for everyone.

ACCOMMODATION FOR ONE NIGHT IN A DOUBLE TREEHUT CHALET INCLUDING BREAKFAST AT:

HAPUKU LODGE

KAIKOURA

DAY 15                       KAIKOURA TO CHRISTCHURCH

An exhilarating Whalewatch excursion has been included which will provide the opportunity of viewing Sperm whales, dolphins and fur seals (approximately 3 hours duration).

Later today drive to Christchurch (approximately 2 hours 30 minutes drive).

Christchurch – ‘Garden City of New Zealand’. Historic architecture, art galleries, parks, landscaped gardens and the River Avon meandering through the city centre creates a tranquil and charming atmosphere, reminiscent of the cities English heritage.

Return your rental car to the city depot prior to 5pm.

ACCOMMODATION FOR ONE NIGHT IN A DOUBLE JUNIOR SUITE INCLUDING BREAKFAST AT:

THE GEORGE

CHRISTCHURCH

DAY 16                       CHRISTCHURCH TO ARTHURS PASS

Today you will be at your accommodation by your private car and driver for your transfer to Christchurch Railway Station.

   8.15am                      Depart Christchurch aboard the Tranz Alpine Railway reputed to be one of the greatest train journeys in the world travelling across the Canterbury Plains, to Arthur’s Pass.

10.12am                       Arrive Cass

                                    Upon arrival at Cass Railway Station you will be met by a representative of the Lodge who will transfer you to your accommodation.

Grasmere Lodge – nestled in the foothills of the Southern Alps, near Arthur’s Pass is a gracious high country retreat.  Dramatic peaks and rolling pastures offer a picturesque backdrop to the

gracious surroundings of the historic homestead.

ACCOMMODATION FOR TWO NIGHTS IN A DOUBLE SUITE INCLUDING PRE DINNER DRINKS, DINNER AND BREAKFAST AT:

GRASMERE LODGE

ARTHURS PASS

DAY 17                       ARTHURS PASS

During your stay at Grasmere Lodge enjoy a complimentary 90 minute 4WD tour of the Grasmere property (weather permitting). Grasmere is a full working sheep station in the traditional high country style and your tour will give you the opportunity to view seasonal farm activities. The drive is over the 13,000 acres of Grasmere Station selecting the most scenic views of lakes, rivers and mountains surrounding the lodge. Enjoy commentaries on Merino sheep, beef cattle and deer farming as well as some history of the area.

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We suggest the following optional activities during your leisure time:

·        Swimming Pool and beauty spa facilities

·        Horse riding

·        Tennis

·        Croquet and Boules

·        Nature Walks

·        Kayak rides

·        Mountain bikes

DAY 18                       ARTHURS PASS TO CHRISTCHURCH AND QUEENSTOWN

                                    Today you will be met by your private car and driver for your transfer to Christchurch Airport (approximately 2 hours journey).

                                    Fly Christchurch to Queenstown (cost not included).

SUGGESTED FLIGHT SCHEDULE

11.25am                       Depart Christchurch aboard Air New Zealand flight NZ5001

12.30pm                      Arrive Queenstown

Upon arrival at Queenstown airport uplift your full size automatic rental vehicle including daily insurance, unlimited mileage and accident excess reduction and drive to your accommodation.

Queenstown - ‘Adventure Capital of the World’. Set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, amidst the towering peaks of the Southern Alps, the scenery provides a perfect backdrop for endless activities and an idyllic haven in which to relax.

This evening cruise aboard the historic 1912 coal fired steamship TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Upon arrival at Walter Peak there is the opportunity to view the sheep dogs in action, sheep shearing and the magnificent Scottish Highland Cattle.  Stroll through the lakeside gardens to the Colonel's Homestead for dinner.  Return to Queenstown aboard the TSS Earnslaw.

                                    ACCOMMODATION FOR FOUR NIGHTS IN A DOUBLE DELUXE ROOM INCLUDING BREAKFAST AT:

                                    SOFITEL

                                    QUEENSTOWN

DAY 19                       QUEENSTOWN

We suggest the following optional activities during your leisure time:

·        Relaxing at ‘Body Sanctum’ – Queenstown’s exclusive Day Spa

·        Exhilarating jetboat ride on the Shotover River

·        Jetboat excursion or Fun Yak trip on the scenic Dart River

·        Gondola Ride to Bob’s Peak

·        Steamer cruise aboard the TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak

·        Visit a variety of leading boutique wineries and vineyards for which Central Otago is renowned - Amisfield, Chard Farm, Peregrine Wines, Lake Hayes and Gibbston Vineyards

·        Visit the historic and picturesque Gold Mining Settlement of Arrowtown

·        Golf at Millbrook Resort or Kelvin Heights

·        Hot air ballooning

·        Horse riding through rolling alpine countryside

·        Day excursion to Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound, located in the unique Fiordland National Park

·        Day hike to nearby Routeburn National Park

·        Visit the sites and surreal landscape where the ‘Lord of the Rings’ was filmed

·        For the more adventurous - bungy jumping, sky diving, parapenting, heli-surfing, river surfing, rock climbing, white water rafting, fly by wire adventure ride

·        Old Cromwell Town – self guided tour visiting local artists, historic buildings, shopping for gourmet preserves and fine homeware (45 minutes drive from Wanaka)

DAY 20                       QUEENSTOWN

                                    Today is at leisure.

DAY 21                       QUEENSTOWN

                                    Today is at leisure.

DAY 22                       DEPART QUEENSTOWN

Today drive to Queenstown Airport and return your rental vehicle prior to your onward flight

Fly Queenstown to Auckland (cost not included).

SUGGESTED FLIGHT SCHEDULE

  3.15pm                      Depart Queenstown aboard Air New Zealand flight NZ 644

  5.00pm                      Arrive Auckland

Upon arrival at Auckland Domestic Airport you will be met by your private car and driver for your transfer to the International Airport .

Depart Auckland

ARRANGEMENTS CONCLUDE