17 Days: Nature in Luxury
Experience New Zealand’s unique flora and fauna; this 17-day luxury tour highlights the special scenery, native birds and sea life.
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
Experiences as Listed
Domestic Flights
Expert Local Tour Guides
Luxury Private Transport
Option to Self-Drive in a Luxury SUV
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 Auckland Accommodation
You will be met at the Auckland airport by the driver and transferred to your Auckland accommodation.
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M Social Hotel Auckland
A contemporary hotel for the curious, the explorers and those who thrive on new experiences. Functionally chic, this contemporary hotel overlooks the vibrant Princes Wharf that is home to a good array of dining, entertainment and shopping experiences.
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Day 2: Auckland to Rotorua
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. You’ll soon go through the town of Matamata where you can visit the fully intact Hobbiton film set used in the shooting of the Lord of The Rings and Hobbit trilogies. Continuing on, you’ll pass several small farming communities before telltale signs of steam and other geothermal activity signal your arrival into Rotorua.
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Spellbound Glowworm Private Tour
A private tour ensures that you enjoy an exclusive tour all to yourselves! Bring your own group, and enjoy our classic Spellbound Glowworm and Cave tour. It can be customized for a special occasion and it's ideal for keen photographers who would like to take their time getting the perfect glowworm shot. Please contact us directly to arrange your own Private Tour.
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Solitaire Lodge
Solitaire Lodge Rotorua, one of New Zealand’s premier luxury lodges, enjoys breathtaking views over Lake Tarawera, with lush natural bush and volcanic landscape backdrop. The subtle design brings the outdoors in, inviting you to unwind and soak up the peace and quiet of this tranquil setting. Minutes from this iconic resort you will discover a multitude of activities.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 3: 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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SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Private Day Tour of Rotorua
You are picked up from your accommodation venue and met by your driver/guide. We then take a short drive out to New Zealand’s largest active boiling mud pool, then onto the colourful geothermal park of Wai-O-Tapu.
You can choose either a walk through Waimangu Volcanic Valley, a scenic geothermal valley containing New Zealand’s largest hot spring and spectacular native bush, or perhaps a scenic helicopter or float plane flight around the lakes and geothermal area.
Next, we visit one of New Zealand’s most popular wildlife sanctuaries, Rainbow Springs. See Kiwi birds, as well as many other endangered birds, Rainbow trout and the Tuatara. Experience a showcase of New Zealand flora and fauna, all explained to you by your own exclusive guide.
We then drive around the Rotorua lakefront, seeing its historical sites and geothermal activity.
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Solitaire Lodge
Solitaire Lodge Rotorua, one of New Zealand’s premier luxury lodges, enjoys breathtaking views over Lake Tarawera, with lush natural bush and volcanic landscape backdrop. The subtle design brings the outdoors in, inviting you to unwind and soak up the peace and quiet of this tranquil setting. Minutes from this iconic resort you will discover a multitude of activities.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 4: Rotorua to Napier
Today’s private tour will take you through the thermal region just south of Rotorua. before you move on to Napier. Continue on to Taupo and marvel at the lake, a giant crater formed following a volcanic eruption in the year 180 CE. As you approach the city, be sure to stop at Huka Falls to view the spectacular sight of hundreds of cubic metres of water spilling every second down the narrow 11 metre drop.
For an extra thrill take a jet-boat ride to the base of the falls. Leaving Taupo, follow the road as it climbs the rugged Ahimanawa Range before descending back down the Pacific Coast to art deco Napier.
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Huka Falls Jet Boat Ride
The Huka Jet is 30 minutes of pure fun and exhilaration, skimming close to cliffs, sliding past trees, feeling the adrenalin of full 360-degree spins. The excitement continues right up to the base of the foaming Huka Falls, where you get a spectacular water-level view of New Zealand's most visited natural attraction.
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The Farm at Cape Kidnappers
Located in Hawke's Bay, one of New Zealand's most important wine districts, Cape Kidnappers has a rich history. The Farm is a five-star experience set on a 6,000-acre sheep and cattle farm which encompasses land reminiscent of Montana but plunges 800 feet straight into the sea. A championship golf course designed by Tom Doak is just one reason to experience The Farm.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 5: Napier
With its Mediterranean climate and Art Deco style, Hawke's Bay is an attractive holiday prospect. As the nation's first winemaking region, a visit to one of its 30 wineries is a must. A trip to Mission Estate touted as the birthplace of NZ wine can't be missed. For the truly enthused head out on a tour of the vines. Those into Gatsby will enjoy the chance to view prominent Art Deco landmarks on a 1930s Vintage Car Tour. Passengers will spend just over an hour learning about the history of the city's architecture including the Napier Municipal Theatre, one of the top ten Art Deco Buildings in the world
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Gannet Safari Private Overland Tour
Experience a Gannet Safari Overland Tour catered to your own wishes and needs. Book a private tour and create personalised, lifelong memories. Available for individuals and groups, discover the natural wonders and wildlife of Cape Kidnappers in beautiful Hawke’s Bay anytime from sunrise to sunset.
We will work together with you to create an itinerary that helps you make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience into the heart of the largest most accessible Gannet colony in the world.
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The Farm at Cape Kidnappers
Located in Hawke's Bay, one of New Zealand's most important wine districts, Cape Kidnappers has a rich history. The Farm is a five-star experience set on a 6,000-acre sheep and cattle farm which encompasses land reminiscent of Montana but plunges 800 feet straight into the sea. A championship golf course designed by Tom Doak is just one reason to experience The Farm.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 6: Napier to Wellington
The rolling countryside of the Hawke's Bay leads you into some of New Zealand’s richest farmland, located around the Manawatu region. Passing along the Manawatu Gorge the Wairarapa welcomes you. Masterton is home to the golden shears sheep shearing competition while just further south Greytown boasts the largest concentration of historic wooden buildings in the country.
Nearby Martinborough is home to dozens of boutique wineries. The route takes you over the Rimutaka Range and along the magnificent natural harbour that the capital city of Wellington sits upon.
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Zealandia By Night Wildlife Sanctuary Tour
Taking a night tour of Zealandia wildlife eco-sanctuary is an unforgettable experience and one that comes highly recommended. A conservation success and safe haven for some of New Zealand's rarest native animals, Zealandia is home to many remarkable species of birds, reptiles and insects living wild within a beautiful 225 hectare (one square mile) valley, just 10 minutes from the central city.
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Naumi Studio Hotel Wellington
Naumi Studio Wellington, an iconic heritage landmark in the heart of the Cuba Street precinct. After an extensive renovation, this 116-room property has transformed into visual feast for the senses, enthralling guests with eclectic spaces inspired from seafaring, the library world and enduring love.
Meals included: Breakfast
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Day 7: Wellington 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 Wellington 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 8: Christchurch to Mt Cook
Today you'll drive through the heart of the South Island, crossing the vast Canterbury plains. Catch your breath in Geraldine before continuing through Fairlie. Ascending Burkes Pass, you'll come to the picturesque lakeside town of Tekapo. Follow the road and take in the view of Aoraki Mount Cook (New Zealand's tallest mountain) from the shores of Lake Pukaki, known for its glacier-fed turquoise blue color. Continue along the lake to your final destination, Mount Cook Village.
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Private Tour
Private guided sight seeing tour to your accommodation with multiple photos stops.
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Mt Cook Retreat
Enjoy luxury accommodation, fine cuisine, exceptional stargazing, and inspiring landscapes. Rest, revive, dine, explore. Your time is your own at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat. Private luxury villas. Lake and mountain views. Exclusive lakeside estate.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 9: Day in 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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Heli Hike
Scenic helicopter flight from Aoraki / Mount Cook Airport over spectacular ice formations, landing on the Tasman Glacier.
Encounter glacial ice formations up close on a professionally guided 2-hour hike with Alpine Guides, Ltd. exploring Aotearoa New Zealand's longest glacier.
Soar above the Southern Alps and pass the Hochstetter Icefall on your return flight.
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Mt Cook Retreat
Enjoy luxury accommodation, fine cuisine, exceptional stargazing, and inspiring landscapes. Rest, revive, dine, explore. Your time is your own at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat. Private luxury villas. Lake and mountain views. Exclusive lakeside estate.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 10: Mt.Cook to Dunedin
Today you'll leave Aoraki Mt Cook National Park and travel past Twizel, one of the locations for the Lord of the Rings films. Stretch your legs in Oamaru, known for its white stone buildings constructed with the local Oamaru Stone.
Continue south down the coast to Moeraki, and take a detour towards the beach to see the Moeraki Boulders, a unique geological feature well worth a look. As you arrive in Dunedin, take in the city’s Edwardian and Scottish heritage.
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Private Day Tour
Private guided sight seeing tour to your accommodation with multiple photos stops.
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Camp Estate at Larnach Castle
A luxurious country house, situated 500m from Larnach Castle. The house is built from blue stone and features a spectacular marble staircase. The rooms are all double glazed and the reception rooms are all heated by open fires and underfloor heating. Staying at Camp Estate offers total privacy, with entry to Larnach Castle and grounds included.
Meals included: Breakfast, Speciality Dinner
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Day 11: Day in Dunedin
From edgy urban street art to adorable penguins, Dunedin is a region full of surprises. Take a walk up the world’s steepest street or enjoy fish and chips at the popular St Claire beach front.
Dunedin is home to rare wildlife. On the Otago Peninsula, you can spot little blue penguins, yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals and sea lions.
You can also visit the world’s only mainland breeding colony of Northern Royal Albatross.
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Private Albatross Tour
Tour includes a short walk to reach our glassed exclusive viewing observatory and commentary on the Northern Royal Albatross, history and culture of Pukekura “Taiaroa Head’. Witness the chance of seeing these majestic birds in flight and hear the fascinating life of a royal albatross at the world’s only mainland breeding colony in the world and help support a private charitable conservation trust.
Please note: October is difficult to guarantee albatross sightings as chicks depart the headland in September and new season nests are built in late October.
During tours in October, we hope to see some new season adults either on the ground, in the air or both, but there is a small chance we may not see any.
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Camp Estate at Larnach Castle
A luxurious country house, situated 500m from Larnach Castle. The house is built from blue stone and features a spectacular marble staircase. The rooms are all double glazed and the reception rooms are all heated by open fires and underfloor heating. Staying at Camp Estate offers total privacy, with entry to Larnach Castle and grounds included.
Meals included: Breakfast, Speciality Dinner
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Day 12: Dunedin to Te Anau
The tour to Te Anau takes you through classic Southland farming scenery. Head off-the-beaten-track today and follow the coastline instead of the inland route. Go through The Catlins area and be sure to take a detour to Kaka Point to view its majestic cliffs and pounding surf. Continue through Invercargill to Riverton and Colac Bay, and then head north to Manapouri. From here you can embark on a day or overnight cruise to the remote Doubtful Sound, renowned for its natural beauty. Just a short way further will bring you to your lakeside destination of Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland National Parkand Milford Sound.
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Private Day Tour
Private guided sight seeing tour to your accommodation with multiple photos stops.
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Fiordland Lodge
Set in a World Heritage area Fiordland Lodge offers the discerning traveller comfort and privacy. The elegance and splendour of the Lodge is mirrored in the breathtaking views of Lake Te Anau and Fiordland. Private and serene, the Lodge is perfect for relaxation, or as a base for your Fiordland experience.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 13: Day in Fiordland National Park
Fiordland National Park is known around the world for its breathtaking collection of fiords which ironically are mostly named as sounds. Interestingly, both terms are correct. Fiord is a geological term for an ice-carved landscape that has been inundated by water (usually the sea), and a sound is a geographical term for a large ocean inlet. Cast your eye over a map of the South Island’s untamed western coastline and read out a roll call of names both in Maori and English - each with their own story to tell. In order to convey the sense of majesty that the landscape provides the entire area was named Fiordland.
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Private Helicopter Flight to Doubtful and Dusky Sound
The best of both Fiords, enjoy and be amazed of what these two magnificent Fiords have to offer with the bonus of seeing Breaksea Sound and Wet Jacket arm. You will also have 2 remote landings for great photo opportunities.
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Fiordland Lodge
Set in a World Heritage area Fiordland Lodge offers the discerning traveller comfort and privacy. The elegance and splendour of the Lodge is mirrored in the breathtaking views of Lake Te Anau and Fiordland. Private and serene, the Lodge is perfect for relaxation, or as a base for your Fiordland experience.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 14: Milford Sound
Milford Sound sits within Fiordland National Park in the southwest of New Zealand’s South Island. The park is part of Te Wahipounamu, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Milford Sound is the jewel of Fiordland National Park – a hidden secret waiting to be discovered.
Despite its name, Milford Sound is actually a fiord, not a sound. It is also the only fiord in New Zealand that is accessible by road. However, its remote location, bounded by steep cliffs and dense rainforest, means its special features remain unspoilt. Rain or shine, Milford Sound continues to captivate even the most experienced traveller with its beautiful surroundings, ink-dark waters, gushing waterfalls and captivating views
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Private Tour
Your driver/guide will stop at multiple locations along the Milford Rd for photos plus enlighten you of the rich and amazing history, flora, and fauna in the Fiordland National Park. Join an overnight cruise and experience Milford Sound without the crowds. With a boutique atmosphere, an overnight experience aboard the Fiordland Jewel is the perfect mix of ultimate relaxation and adventurous exploration, with opportunities for kayaking and tender boat excursions, as well as well-deserved pampering with a soak in the top deck hot tub and delicious meals cooked by our onboard chef. Spending the night in this very special part of the world means truly taking in its splendour.
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Fiordland Jewel
With a boutique atmosphere, an overnight experience aboard the Fiordland Jewel is the perfect mix of ultimate relaxation and adventurous exploration, with opportunities for kayaking and tender boat excursions, as well as well-deserved pampering with a soak in the top deck hot tub and delicious meals cooked by our onboard chef.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 15: Milford Sound to Queenstown
Enjoy the wonderful drive along the Milford Road as you head back towards Te Anau. Crossing the rolling tussock lands, pass through Mossburn, the deer capital of New Zealand. Following the lake north, the Remarkable mountain range towers over you as you approach the adventure capital of Queenstown.
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Private Tour
Private guided sight seeing tour to your accommodation with multiple photos stops.
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Accommodation - Azur Lodge
It's hard to imagine a more perfect view than the one from Azur Lodge, this luxury accommodation offers amazing vistas of Lake Wakatipu & the surrounding mountains. As well as the luxury guest villas, there is a main lodge for guest use, breakfast dining room & stunning guest lounge.
Meals included: Breakfast
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Day 16: 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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Accommodation - Azur Lodge
It's hard to imagine a more perfect view than the one from Azur Lodge, this luxury accommodation offers amazing vistas of Lake Wakatipu & the surrounding mountains. As well as the luxury guest villas, there is a main lodge for guest use, breakfast dining room & stunning guest lounge.
Meals included: Breakfast
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Day 17: 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