15 Days: Luxury Lodges
The four lodges on this 15-day New Zealand tour are set in outstanding, unique locations, and are known for their world-class cuisine and exceptional hospitality.
We use this itinerary as a starting point to create your perfect bespoke New Zealand luxury vacation.
INCLUDED IN YOUR LUXURY PRIVATE TOUR
Luxury Accommodation with Meals as Listed
All Experiences as Listed
Domestic Flights
Expert Local Tour Guides
Luxury Private Transport
View Map
Day 1: Welcome to Auckland the 'City of Sails'
Auckland, New Zealand's self-proclaimed "City of Sails" is the country's largest metro area. Resting between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, this urban paradise has something for everyone. Surrounded by native bush, rainforests, and an abundance of beaches, Auckland is a playground for both the city savvy and those with an eye for adventure. Explore the central museums and galleries on foot, or get out onto the water to experience the best views of the city.
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Private Transfer Auckland Airport to Delamore Lodge
You will be met at the Auckland airport by the driver and transferred to a private water taxi then onto Delamore Lodge.
Option for Private Helicopter transfer
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Delamore Lodge
Delamore Lodge is built cliffside with commanding views overlooking Owhanake Bay, superior facilities, first-class service, and delicious dining. Inspired by the Mediterranean with a unique New Zealand flavor, this elegant and exclusive luxury lodge is designed in the shape of a traditional Maori fish hook (Matau) and is literally molded into the hillside.
Includes: Breakfast and Dinner
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Day 2: Waiheke Island
Waiheke has abundant natural wonders to explore. For the more adventurous, there are numerous activities to pursue including mountain biking, sea kayaking, fishing, surfing, sailing, archery and much more.
The island is also well known for it's local artists and artisans so you can enjoy sculpture, glass blowing, painting and woodwork at the local shops and markets.
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The Wine Connoisseur's Tour
A private wine-focused tour for those who wish to indulge their passion for fine wine visiting three of Waiheke's top wine producers. Taste a selection of premium wines and learn about them from the winemaker, owner, or senior team member
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Delamore Lodge
Delamore Lodge is built cliffside with commanding views overlooking Owhanake Bay, superior facilities, first-class service, and delicious dining. Inspired by the Mediterranean with a unique New Zealand flavor, this elegant and exclusive luxury lodge is designed in the shape of a traditional Maori fish hook (Matau) and is literally molded into the hillside.
Includes: Breakfast and Dinner
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Day 3: Hauraki Gulf
With over a million hectares of sparkling blue waters dotted with emerald islands, the Hauraki Gulf offers countless water activities and island adventures.
With countless water activities and island adventures so close at hand, it’s no wonder Lonely Planet named Auckland harbour and the Hauraki Gulf the best experience in New Zealand.
Jet boating, kayaking, fishing, sailing and more – you’re spoilt for choice in Auckland. Relax on a harbour cruise
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Full Day Fishing Charter (Private)
Come on the ultimate Waiheke fishing charter. We will target in-season fish from snapper, kingfish, kahawai, john dory, and many other species along the way. We will go where the fishing takes us around the Hauraki Gulf. Our local and experienced Skipper will take you to the best fishing spots around the Hauraki Gulf and at the end of the day, your fish will be cleaned, filleted and ready to eat!
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Delamore Lodge
Delamore Lodge is built cliffside with commanding views overlooking Owhanake Bay, superior facilities, first-class service, and delicious dining. Inspired by the Mediterranean with a unique New Zealand flavor, this elegant and exclusive luxury lodge is designed in the shape of a traditional Maori fish hook (Matau) and is literally molded into the hillside.
Includes: Breakfast and Dinner
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Day 4: Auckland to Taupo
The private tour south from Auckland takes you past the Bombay Hills and into the rolling farmland and rich dairy pastures of the Waikato. The Bombay Hills mark the outer boundary of greater Auckland area and it's here you turn inland to central Waikato. Continuing on, you’ll pass several small farming communities before telltale signs of steam and other geothermal activity signal your arrival at the Huka Lodge
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Private Tour
Private guided sight seeing tour to Hula Lodge with multiple photos stops.
Option to transfer on a private helicopter
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Huka Lodge
Long regarded as one of the world’s most revered and inspirational luxury accommodations, Huka Lodge is set among established gardens along the banks of the surging Waikato River near Lake Taupō on New Zealand’s North Island. With humble beginnings nearly a century ago as a fishermen’s camp made famous for its trout-rich waters and featuring white canvas tents along the river’s edge, today Huka Lodge has secured its place as one of the country’s oldest and celebrated luxury lodge with an impressive heritage, welcoming some of the world’s most influential guests to the region.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 5: Taupo
Taupo, a town near the centre of New Zealand's North Island, is distinguished by its lakefront setting and outdoor sports ranging from fishing to jet-boating. The vast waters of Lake Taupo, a volcanic caldera, drain into the Huka Falls, dramatic, crystal-blue cascades reachable by hiking and biking trails. Surrounding Taupo are hot springs like those filling the Craters of the Moon reserve.
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Fly Fishing
Huka Lodge has its very foundations in the sport of fly fishing, as the trout-rich Waikato River which flows alongside the property was the original motivation for Alan Pye to set up a series of white canvas tents as a well-positioned fishermen’s camp. As word of the bountiful properties of the river spread, visitors came to the remote outpost from around the world to cast their lines and try for a bite.
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Huka Lodge
Long regarded as one of the world’s most revered and inspirational luxury accommodations, Huka Lodge is set among established gardens along the banks of the surging Waikato River near Lake Taupō on New Zealand’s North Island. With humble beginnings nearly a century ago as a fishermen’s camp made famous for its trout-rich waters and featuring white canvas tents along the river’s edge, today Huka Lodge has secured its place as one of the country’s oldest and celebrated luxury lodge with an impressive heritage, welcoming some of the world’s most influential guests to the region.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 6: Rotorua
Peppered with natural hot springs, boiling mud pools and steaming geysers, Rotorua sits within one of the worlds most active volcanic regions. Geothermal landmarks aside, this city of sulphur has a rich indigenous history. Home to several prominent Maori tribes, a visit to one of the Maori Villages should be high on your agenda, as should an excursion to the Polynesian Spa for an invigorating soak in its natural mineral hot springs.
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Mount Tarawera & Orakei Korako Thermal Explorer by Helicopter
Combine the thrill of landing on Mount Tarawera with a flight that includes spectacular aerial views of Rotorua's stunning crater lakes, the renowned Tarawera Falls and the vibrant Waimangu and Wai-O-Tapu geothermal reserves.
Leaving Wai-O-Tapu, descend to follow the Waikato River to the hidden valley of Orakei Korako. Once landed, you will ferry across the river and begin your land-based tour. Experience hot springs, gushing geysers and the natural beauty of this geothermal wonderland. The return flight takes in views of farmland and the Paeroa mountain range before flying over Rotorua City and returning to the lakefront pier.
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Huka Lodge
Long regarded as one of the world’s most revered and inspirational luxury accommodations, Huka Lodge is set among established gardens along the banks of the surging Waikato River near Lake Taupō on New Zealand’s North Island. With humble beginnings nearly a century ago as a fishermen’s camp made famous for its trout-rich waters and featuring white canvas tents along the river’s edge, today Huka Lodge has secured its place as one of the country’s oldest and celebrated luxury lodge with an impressive heritage, welcoming some of the world’s most influential guests to the region.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 7: Huka Lodge
A stay at Huka Lodge invites a step into another world, layered with refined luxury and calm, where palatial suites and two exclusive owners’ residences offer sumptuous, secluded retreat and open to views of the ever-changing Waikato River. Discover our range of specially tailored packages each with generous inclusions.
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Enjoy the Huka Lodges in-house wellness centre
A range of facial therapies employs the organic, plant-based Janesce skin care range to offer a rejuvenating, reinvigorating treatment using aromatic oils and healing masks as well as relaxing massage techniques. A green peel treatment aligns with Taupō's lush green surrounds and deep, rolling river..
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Huka Lodge
Long regarded as one of the world’s most revered and inspirational luxury accommodations, Huka Lodge is set among established gardens along the banks of the surging Waikato River near Lake Taupō on New Zealand’s North Island. With humble beginnings nearly a century ago as a fishermen’s camp made famous for its trout-rich waters and featuring white canvas tents along the river’s edge, today Huka Lodge has secured its place as one of the country’s oldest and celebrated luxury lodge with an impressive heritage, welcoming some of the world’s most influential guests to the region.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 8: Taupo to Christchurch
Take a domestic flight to Christchurch.
Christchurch New Zealand's garden city is steadily being transformed into a vibrant urban destination. Encompassing a large green belt, it is known for its wide tree lined avenues and lush gardens. A great way to explore the city or easy way to see the sights or ride the historic trams across town to the renowned botanic gardens and the unique cardboard Transitional Cathedral, that's right it is built of cardboard!
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Private Transfer to Taupo Airport then from Christchurch Airport to Christchurch Accommodation
You will be met at the Christchurch airport by the driver and transferred to your Christchurch accommodation.
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The George Hotel
The George is the essence of supreme comfort. The award-winning 5 star hotel is opposite Hagley Park and just a few minutes stroll from the Botanic Gardens. It also has an award-winning restaurant, 50 Bistro onsite.
Meals included: Breakfast
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Day 9: Christchurch to The Lindis
Crossing the Canterbury Plains, the rich farmland that attracted and helped settlers prosper becomes apparent as you head out of the city and towards the mountains.
Pass the turquoise lakes of Tekapo and Pukaki and New Zealand’s hight mountain Mt Cook then onto your accommodation, The Lindis Lodge.
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Private Tour
Private guided sight seeing tour to your accommodation with multiple photos stops.
Option to take a private Helicopter
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The Lindis Lodge
Near the bottom of the habitable world is the breathtaking and pristine Ahuriri Valley. Carved over millions of years by the once fierce glacial waters of the Ahuriri River, the valley is now a tranquil, yet a comfortingly rugged slice of paradise in New Zealand’s South. And resting almost imperceptibly on the valley floor is The Lindis, a truly unique luxury lodge.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 10: Mt Cook
A visit to the Mackenzie Region isn’t complete without a pilgrimage to New Zealand’s tallest mountain, the mighty Aoraki/Mount Cook! There are many walking and hiking tracks, most of which are suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.
The Hooker Valley track is one of the most popular with spectacular mountain views, alpine streams and impressive swing bridges.
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Mt Cook Private Heli Hike
A bespoke, private helicopter charter flying North along the main divide of the Southern Alps passing New Zealand’s highest peak Aoraki/Mt. Cook at 12,218 feet (3,724 metres).
Landing amidst the crevasses of the Tasman Glacier, you will put on snowshoes or crampons to explore the glacier’s seracs, icefalls, and astonishing caves of ancient blue ice. Lunch and all equipment is included and your professional guide will choose a stunning location to enjoy your gourmet picnic.
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The Lindis Lodge
Near the bottom of the habitable world is the breathtaking and pristine Ahuriri Valley. Carved over millions of years by the once fierce glacial waters of the Ahuriri River, the valley is now a tranquil, yet a comfortingly rugged slice of paradise in New Zealand’s South. And resting almost imperceptibly on the valley floor is The Lindis, a truly unique luxury lodge.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 11: The Lindis
The connection to the valley extends beyond the doors of the lodge. The Ahuriri Valley offers myriad ways to explore and partake in nature and our knowledgeable staff are always on hand to coordinate an excursion that suits any individual. With world-class fly fishing in the Ahuriri River, gentle and not-so-gentle horse trails and some of the clearest night skies in the world for stargazing, there truly is an experience for everyone right on our doorstep.
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Horse Riding
With 14-bay stables, 12 horses, and 1 foal on-site, trek across high country farmland with breathtaking views of Ben Avon station and the surrounding Ahuriri Valley.
3 treks are available, each catering to different riding levels
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The Lindis Lodge
Near the bottom of the habitable world is the breathtaking and pristine Ahuriri Valley. Carved over millions of years by the once fierce glacial waters of the Ahuriri River, the valley is now a tranquil, yet a comfortingly rugged slice of paradise in New Zealand’s South. And resting almost imperceptibly on the valley floor is The Lindis, a truly unique luxury lodge.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 12: The Lindis to Queenstown
Cross over the spectacular golden Lindis Pass, then onto Cromwell dotted with its award winning vineyards. Head south into the Queenstown region known as the adventure capital of the world.
Travel along the side of Lake Wakatipu onto your accommodation, Matakauri Lodge.
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Private Tour
Private guided sight seeing tour to Matakauri Lodge with multiple photos stops.
Option to transfer on a private helicopter
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Matakauri
With clean lines in glass, stone, and timber, Matakauri’s own take on luxury is understated and welcoming – embracing guests and championing the mountainscape. Four suites are classically located within the main lodge, with the remaining suites nestled on the banks of Lake Wakatipu overlooking the mountain panorama. Styled by acclaimed interior designer Virginia Fisher, you won’t want to leave your sumptuous suite with its awe-inspiring views
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
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Day 13: Milford Sound
Famously described by Rudyard Kipling as the 'eighth wonder of the world', Milford Sound / Piopiotahi is breath-taking in any weather - with its fiord's cliffs, mountainous peaks and waterfalls as high as 1000 metres. When it rains in Milford Sound, and it often does, those waterfalls multiply with magnificent effect.
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Milford Sound Fly/Cruise/Fly
Take a fixed wing shared flight spanning secluded alpine lakes, lush rainforest, and rugged mountain peaks of the Southern Alps. Land in Milford Sound and board a shared vessel for a 90 minute cruise. View cascading waterfalls, towering rocks, and unique wildlife as you voyage out to the Tasman Sea
At the end of your cruise return to Queenstown via a different flight path taking in lake Wakatipu and the Glenorchy.
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Matakauri
With clean lines in glass, stone, and timber, Matakauri’s own take on luxury is understated and welcoming – embracing guests and championing the mountainscape. Four suites are classically located within the main lodge, with the remaining suites nestled on the banks of Lake Wakatipu overlooking the mountain panorama. Styled by acclaimed interior designer Virginia Fisher, you won’t want to leave your sumptuous suite with its awe-inspiring views
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 14: Queenstown
Although celebrated as New Zealand's ‘adventure capital’ Queenstown offers far more than a fast paced action-packed holiday. Settled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu beneath a soaring panorama of the Remarkables Mountain Range, this alpine town is surrounded by a plethora of historic, gastronomic and scenic wonders.
And after all of that if you do really want the adrenaline rush Queenstown is known for take your pick from the Shotover Jet, Canyon Swing, Zipline, Luge or Heli-ski.
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Private Central Otago Wine Tour
The Classic Full Day Wine Tour that explores the scenery, history, food and wines of Central Otago. Enjoy an unhurried amble through six of the region's finest wineries, pausing only to admire the ever-present views. Savour the unique atmosphere of the arts, crafts and history of Old Cromwell Town and share the unforgettable indulgence of a gourmet lunch.
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Matakauri
With clean lines in glass, stone, and timber, Matakauri’s own take on luxury is understated and welcoming – embracing guests and championing the mountainscape. Four suites are classically located within the main lodge, with the remaining suites nestled on the banks of Lake Wakatipu overlooking the mountain panorama. Styled by acclaimed interior designer Virginia Fisher, you won’t want to leave your sumptuous suite with its awe-inspiring views
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Click images to enlarge
Day 15: Queenstown to Auckland
It’s time to say goodbye with a domestic flight back to Auckland
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Private Transfer Azur Lodge to Queenstown Airport