14-Day Relaxing with the Best Scenery in New Zealand

Arrive in Auckland and hop in a private car The Bay of Islands is a subtropical micro-region known for its stunning beauty and history. For those that love beaches and water activities, it’s paradise. The Bay of Islands encompasses 144 islands between Cape Brett and the Purerua Peninsula.

From: Auckland
To: Pahia

Welcome to Paihia Beach Resort & Spa.

Located in the idyllic seaside town of Paihia in the Bay of Islands is the Paihia Beach Resort & Spa.

You are invited to experience the boutique resort, which has been designed with the guest’s ultimate comfort in mind. Relax at La Spa Naturale, take a dip in the pool, and dine at Glasshouse Kitchen & Bar. At Paihia Beach Resort & Spa your every need is taken care of.

Each guest room faces the ocean and features airconditioning, luxurious super king bed, unlimited Wi-Fi access, large flat-screen TV with 50+ Sky Channels, and 6-foot spa baths. Take in the spectacular Pacific Ocean views with your own private balcony or patio. At Paihia Beach Resort & Spa every room is an ocean view room.

Address: Paihia Beach Resort

With over 100 islands, the Bay of Islands is a subtropical micro-region of islands known for their beauty.

Within reaching distance of Auckland, it’s never long before you are basking in the natural beauty of the Bay of Islands. Whether you are looking to tap into the Maori culture of this region or are looking to explore the islands’ natural formations by ferry, kayak or small boat, the islands are incredibly accessible for their size and disparity.

Adventure-lovers will revel in the Bay of Islands as with the whole country! The North Islands are one of the country’s top diving spots, while you’ll find wrecks that are accessible through snorkelling and diving around Paihia. For those who are not willing to go underwater, you can still go on it with thrilling speed-boat rides to the Hole in the Rock on the Cape Brett Peninsula.

+ optional (not included in price)

Address: Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Take off on a 45-minute flight up to Cape Reinga via Northlands’ spectacular harbours, such as the Whangaroa Harbour and the Rangaunu Harbour. Pass some beautiful spots like Coopers Beach, Doubtless Bay and the famous Ninety Mile Beach. An air-conditioned mini-bus will meet you and take you on a 2 and a half hour tour around the top of New Zealand.

Salt Air’s ‘Cape Reinga Fly/Drive’ half-day tour by aeroplane is the alternative way to travel to the top of New Zealand to experience it’s beauty, history and scenery from both the air and on land, with the added bonus of avoiding a long road trip if you are short on time.

The initial stage of the tour consists of a 45-minute flight up to Cape Reinga via Northlands’ spectacular harbours, such as the Whangaroa Harbour and the Rangaunu Harbour. You’ll also pass across some beautiful beaches such as Coopers Beach, Doubtless Bay and of course the famous Ninety Mile Beach.

From Ninety Mile Beach, you then fly inland where you land at the airfield, which is only 20 kilometres from the Cape Reinga lighthouse.

Once on the ground, a comfortable air-conditioned mini-bus will meet the aircraft. It will take you on a 2.5-hour tour around the top of New Zealand. guided

Address: Cape Reinga, New Zealand

Leave the Bay of Islands behind and return to Auckland. Explore the Hokianga Harbour, a hidden gem of the North Island. You will be surrounded by panoramic views of the coast including an impressive network of sand dunes. Of all New Zealand’s kauri forests, none is more famous than Waipoua Forest on the west coast. As the largest remaining tract of native forest in Northland, Waipoua is an ancient green world of towering trees and rare birds. After exploring the harbour, return to the city.

From: Paihia
To: Auckland

One of the North Island’s best-kept secrets, Hokianga Harbour is a channel that slices into the North Island with its azure hue.

The fourth-largest harbour in New Zealand, Hokianga Harbour is abundant with nature, with towering sand dunes that are perfect for snowboarding, numerous beaches and arts and crafts shops in the towns that dot the seascape; Hokianga Harbour is definitely a more leisurely port!

Address: Hokianga Harbour, Northland, New Zealand

Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour is located in the heart of Auckland, a unique maritime experience between vibrant Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

Inspired by New Zealand’s landscape and boasting panoramic views of Waitemata Harbour, this beautifully designed hotel is a true landmark destination. All luxury appointed bedrooms and suites have private Juliet balconies, floor to ceiling windows and feature large bathrooms with separate rain showers and deep soaking bathtubs.

In New Zealand’s vibrant City of Sails, Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour offers some of the best panoramic waterfront views. Within an easy walking distance of the Viaduct Harbour Restaurant Precinct, you can enjoy an array of local cuisine and fine dining delights.

Complete your Auckland adventure with a nearby sea life safari, fishing charter or thrilling, high-speed jet boat tour or take the family to explore Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium, just a few minutes drive away.

Address: Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour Avenue, Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland is the main gateway city to New Zealand. Greater Auckland, with a population of over one million, is New Zealand’s largest urban area and centre of commerce and industry, but within minutes of the city, you can experience uncrowded beaches, rural countryside and forests.

You are free to hop on a ferry, bus or in a taxi and spend a few hours exploring the shopping district of Queen Street, the Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium, the panoramic views from the Sky Tower or the vineyards on nearby Waiheke Island.

+ optional (not included in price)

Address: Auckland, New Zealand

Leaving Auckland behind you’ll find Hamilton in the Waikato region; it’s easy to see why these rolling hills were chosen to portray Hobbiton and The Shire. Then, you’ll move onto Rotorua, known for bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers and natural hot springs, and Maori culture which you’ll get to explore at Wai-o-Tapu and Te Puia. With some of the North Island’s most impressive landscapes right on its doorstep, the Great Lake Taupo region is perfect for outdoor adventures.

From: Auckland
To: Taupo

Today, you’ll drive to Taupo via Rotorua, through The Lord of the Rings country! Two hours south of Auckland lies the lush farmland of the Hamilton – Waikato region. Famous for dairying and fine thoroughbred horses, it’s easy to see why these green pastures and rolling hills were chosen to portray Hobbiton and The Shire.

Rotorua is known for bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers and natural hot springs, as well as showcasing our fascinating Maori culture. From crystal-clear streams and magical forests to epic biking trails and thermal mud pools, Rotorua has it all.

With some of the North Island’s most impressive landscapes right on its doorstep, the Great Lake Taupo region is perfect for outdoor adventures.

Spanning an area of 70 hectares within the historic Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, Te Puia is an iconic destination which is home to the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute where one can learn all about the traditional Māori skills of carving and weaving.

Situated on the edge of Rotorua, Te Puia is your chance to gain an insight into this unique culture and where you’ll also discover the national schools of wood carving, weaving, stone and bone carving.

As well as being a cultural centre, Te Puia is also home to a range of spectacular scenery and natural formations including world-famous Pōhutu geyser, mud pools, hot springs and silica formations. You may even hope to spot the native Kiwi bird here!

Address: Bay Of Plenty 3010, New Zealand

Visit Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, a spectacular showcase of New Zealand’s most colourful and unique geothermal elements sculpted by thousands of years of volcanic activity.

Sculptured out of the volcanic activity and thousands of years in the making, Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is considered to be New Zealand’s most colourful and diverse geothermal sightseeing attraction.

You are introduced to a uniquely different natural landscape – the key to what you see lies below the surface – one of the most extensive geothermal systems in New Zealand, extending over 18 square kilometres.

Address: 201 Waiotapu Loop Rd, Waiotapu 3073, New Zealand

Experience real Kiwi hospitality with luxurious and modern five-star accommodation at Chalet Eiger.

A boutique lodge overlooking Lake Taupo and Mount Tauhara, this secluded retreat offers a tranquil paradise in private and peaceful surroundings. Perfectly positioned on the outskirts of Taupo in Acacia Bay, yet right in proximity to the best of the Central North Island.

Whether it’s a luxury retreat, romantic escape or just a weekend away, the unique blend of a Kiwi ambience with sophisticated European facilities gives you complete peace and luxury unrivalled. Chalet Eiger features a spectacular open-plan living area, four ensuite bedrooms, gym, bar, and outdoor dining. Discover the intimacy of a bed and breakfast with the facilities of a five-star hotel.

Address: Chalet Eiger Gillespie Place, Acacia Bay, Taupo, New Zealand

The Waikato River moves gracefully north from Lake Taupo between banks 100 metres apart. Just before the Huka Falls, it enters a shallow ravine of hard volcanic rock. The effect is a large-scale equivalent of a fire hose feeding into a very fine nozzle – it’s spectacular! You can then visit the Tongariro National Park, home to Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu volcanoes, it features some of New Zealand’s most contrasting landscapes. Finish the day in style with dinner on a luxury yacht.

The Waikato River, New Zealand’s longest river, leads gracefully from Lake Taupo to the great Huka Falls. As the river meets the falls you will see a spectacular sight.

Before the falls, the water narrows from a width of 100 metres to a 15-metre ravine of hard volcanic rock. The waters roar and rumble at great speed along the ravine before bursting into space out over Huka Falls to crash into the turbulent pool below. This waterfall is 11 metres tall.

You’ll want to position yourself on the footbridge below the falls for a prime position to witness the display of over 220,000 litres of water plummeting down every few seconds.

Address: Huka Falls, Wairakei, New Zealand

Located in the centre of New Zealand’s North Island, Tongariro National Park is the country’s oldest national park and the fourth national park in the whole world. It has been declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site of mixed cultural and natural values.

Covering an area of 786 kilometres-squared, the park is home to three active volcanos, Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe, and Tongariro; the most famous is Ngauruhoe which features as Mount Doom in the hit movie series, The Lord of the Rings. Mount Ruapehu is also famous for its skiing.

Home to the famed Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a trek which takes one full day, Tongariro National Park boasts emerald lakes, boiling mud pools and exciting wildlife. It is also home to a number of towns around its boundary including Ohakune, Waiouru, Horopito, Pokaka, Erua, National Park Village, Whakapapa skifield and Turangi.

Address: Tongariro National Park 3382, New Zealand

It wouldn’t be a trip to Great Lake Taupo without some exploring on the lake or along the mighty Waikato River. A scenic cruise is a perfect way to enjoy the water and Taupo’s stunning vistas.

You’ll enjoy cruising in comfort and style aboard a launch that offers fabulous views, marvel at the beautiful lake and indulge in an awesome dinner or lunch. Relax with a drink while you enjoy the scenery and if you’re here during the warmer months be sure to take your togs for a dip over the side of the boat.

Sunset cruises are an amazing experience, kick back with a glass of wine, watch the sun sink over the horizon and listen to the water lap against the side of the boat. Trout averages about 4 pounds and a typical Taupo fishing excursion on Lake Taupo will see your crew prepare your catch for a delicious snack either barbecue or sashimi style.

⚐ guided

Address: Taupo, New Zealand

Rise early to fly to Nelson in the north of New Zealand’s South Island. Nelson is a lifestyle; that’s the best way to describe it; it is the sunniest region in New Zealand. You’ll have a bicycle today and be advised on the best trails to follow, suited your abilities including any little ones that might be with you!.

From: Taupo
To: Nelson

We make bike hire easy and when you arrive at Gentle Cycling we’ll help you decide which route to take.

For the family, we have an easy peasy on-trail loop, which passes a bunch of playgrounds, a pretty pub and Pics Peanut Butter factory (open Monday-Friday). For a longer ride, the Coastal Route leads to Rabbit Island (a great swimming beach) and Mapua.

Mapua Wharf is a great lunch destination and the trip includes taking a ferry built just for bikes. A more relaxed option, take the Rail Route towards Brightwater and Wakefield, as there are plenty of foodie places along the way.

Address: 411 Nayland Road, Stoke, Nelson 7011, New Zealand

Rest, relax, explore, indulge. At the Waters, there is a serene environment for guests looking for a luxurious retreat or a lovely home to come back to after an exciting day of experiences.

Enjoy the famous Nelson sunshine and explore all that our wonderful region has to offer. With an enviable reputation as the sunniest part of New Zealand, the Nelson and Tasman region is a perfect destination for both the overseas and out-of-town visitor.

Three purpose-built luxury suites have been designed to offer a unique accommodation experience. Just metres from the shores of Kina Beach, in the centre of spectacular Tasman bay, with cantilevered decks that extend over the pond, The Waters is set on the edge of Windhover Estate, a 10-hectare property on the seaward side of Kina Peninsula.

Windhover Estate is an olive grove, orchard and vineyard and guests of The Waters are free to stroll among the vines and olives and enjoy the majestic setting, surrounded by mountains and sea.

Address: The Waters Kina Peninsula Road, Tasman, New Zealand

Abel Tasman National Park is New Zealand’s smallest national park- but it’s perfectly formed for relaxation and adventure. Join the iconic Golden Future Tour and spend the day cruising on a charter boat, visiting numerous beaches, islands and forests. Explore the coastal wonders and hidden waterways where marine and birdlife are in their natural habitat. Your expert guides will enthral you as the story unfolds around you. You’ll have the option to do a kayaking tour of the Marine Reserve too.

From: Nelson
To: Abel Tasman National Park

Join our signature Golden Future Boat Tour, a fun and relaxing journey through the ecosystems of the Abel Tasman National Park.

We explore the wonderous Islands, forests, beaches, rivers and seas of Te Tai Tapu (The Sacred Coast). Your expert guide is a trained biologist and will ‘open your eyes’ to the rich history and ecology of this stunning area.

⚐ guided

Address: Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand

Learn about New Zealand’s flora and fauna as you paddle amidst birdsong, bush clad hills and playful seals.

This is a full-day guided kayak tour like as the Kahu Classic Marine Reserve which focuses on the protected waters around Tonga Island. Begin at the beautiful bay of Onetahuti Beach, glide past the seals at Shag Harbour, visit the remarkable rock formation known as the “Arches of Tonga” and tuck into a delicious lunch with freshly brewed coffee.

You’ll see countless kilometres of golden sand, island sanctuaries, sea caves, reefs and sheltered tidal lagoons.

+ optional (not included in price)

guided

Address: 325 Sandy Bay-Marahau Road, Marahau 7197, New Zealand

From: Abel Tasman National Park
To: Nelson

Today has an interesting flavour of mountains and native flora and fauna as you travel through the rugged terrain that divides the east from the west. From Westport, your journey winds its way through the western slopes of the West Coast which displays a series of magnificent mountain ranges, and native New Zealand vegetation. Your journey will be interrupted with two of Punakaiki’s key attractions, Pancake Rocks and the glowworm caves before you arrive in the town.

One of Yasawa’s unique water-based activities is an excursion to the Blue Lagoon Caves.

Travel the picturesque length of Yasawa Island by boat with your fellow guests; skim over turquoise waters and past incredible cliffs and beaches. Hidden beneath a dramatic volcanic peak at the southern end of Yasawa Island are the Blue Lagoon Caves, one of the settings for the 1980 movie starring Brooke Shields and Christopher Atkins.

You can visit this spectacular lagoon and swim within its hidden chambers, linked to the sea by underwater passages.

Address: Yasawa, Fiji

A few minutes walking distance from the world-famous Pancake Rocks and Blow Holes of Punakaiki, this four-star resort is a stunning complex located on the wild West Coast at Punakaiki Beach.

Just two minutes from the beach, the hotel features two styles of accommodation; Standard Resort Rooms and Eco Suites. All rooms are modern studio units, with ensuite bathrooms, tea/coffee-making facilities and Sky TV. The suites boast rainforest and ocean views.

At the resort, you’ll find a wide range of services and facilities to ensure your stay is comfortable and relaxing, including an on-site restaurant and bar.

Address: Punakaiki Resort, Punakaiki, New Zealand

A short interpretative train ride in open carriages through the primaeval rainforest. The ‘Nile River Rainforest Train’ recreates a bygone era where bush trams once prevailed.

You will visit the Hall of Refugees to view its breathtaking array of calcite formations before emerging back to daylight to the overwhelmingly awe-inspiring Ananui entrance series- a prehistoric wonderland of outstanding beauty.

Leaving this behind, in the activity level, you will get really close to amazing galaxies of glow worms. The guides will enrich your journey with captivating illustrations, explanations and stories before returning to the surface for a short stroll back to the train.

A journey that takes you into one of the few cave systems you can see in its natural untamed wilderness state. This is a simply stunning eco-tour in a very special place.

+ optional (not included in price)

⚐ guided

Address: Charleston, New Zealand

Situated on the stunning West Coast of the South Island, Punakaiki is a small community on the edge of Paparoa National Park known for its fantastic Pancake Rocks and blowholes which draw in many visitors.

Here, you can gaze in awe as columns of water shoot skyward from rocks that resemble giant stacks of pancakes, hence the name. The pancake rocks were formed over millions of years by alternate layers of marine creatures and sand which were buried and compressed on the ocean floor creating layers of soft and hard limestone.

Over years of tectonic activity, this floor was pushed over the surface and as the weather began to erode the now visible rocks it created this wonderful phenomenon that you see today at Punakaiki.

Address: Punakaiki, New Zealand

You’ll leave the West Coast early morning to come to enter the glacial region. Along the way, you’ll stop to stretch your legs at the historical gold mining town of Hokitika. Hear about the shipwrecks, gold miners and pounamu hunters. Nearby, take a walk over a swing bridge to the Hokitika Gorge – one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand! Take a leisurely and scenic drive to the famous glacier region. Your day’s itinerary will end in the tiny settlement of Franz Josef.

From: Punakaiki
To: Franz Josef Glacier

You will visit the historical gold mining town of Hokitika. Historic Hokitika is a place to appreciate the fascinating history of the West Coast. Hear about the shipwrecks, gold miners and pounamu hunters.

Nearby, take a walk over a swing bridge to the Hokitika Gorge, this is truly one of the beautiful places in New Zealand! The beautiful turquoise waters are quite breathtaking as is the gorge itself.

Take a leisurely and scenic drive to the famous glacier region and your day’s itinerary will end in the tiny settlement of Franz Josef. The rugged West Coast is hemmed between the Tasman Sea and the imposing Southern Alps, making for spectacular contrasts in the surrounding scenery.

Often described as a cool little town, Hokitika is the heritage and cultural centre of the West Coast in New Zealand. It is a prime place to watch the pounamu carvers of greenstone and jade and the gold craftsmen at work.

The West Coast is known for its untamed natural wilderness, traditional and authentic experiences and its friendly characters, you’ll find all that at Hokitika. For a true taste of this town, you cannot leave without crossing the Hokitika Gorge with its swing bridge; regarded as one of the most beautiful spots in New Zealand.

It is also home to the Ruby Rock, New Zealand’s very own gemstone which can only be found in Hokitika. Whilst here, you can also visit the towns glass blowing studio and learn about this trade and glass lace creation.

Address: Hokitika, New Zealand

Westwood Lodge Bed and Breakfast is located in Franz Josef on the West Coast of New Zealand. The lodge is situated right in the forest, with stunning views of the World Heritage Westland National Park, the Southern Alps and Franz Josef Glacier.

The lodge is run by the owner Kaz Gilmore and her team of dedicated staff who will ensure your visit runs smoothly. This Bed and Breakfast is sitting below the stellar icy peaks of Franz Josef. The lodge-style accommodation includes ensuite guest rooms with beautiful garden views, a breakfast restaurant with a range of dining options, and a sumptuous guest lounge to relax in after a busy day.

Here at Westwood Lodge, there is a commitment to reduce the footprint on the planet by adopting sustainable environmental, economic and social practices. Management and staff are all actively involved in the ongoing commitment to reduce the impact on the natural environment. Together we can create a cleaner and greener little piece of paradise for all to enjoy now and in years to come.

Address: Westwood Lodge State Highway 6, Franz Josef
Glacier, New Zealand

Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers are two of New Zealand largest glaciers.

From above, you’ll view and appreciate the incredible natural phenomenon, towering ice formations and vastness the glaciers. You’ll top it off with a snow landing and stand on the ancient ice of the glaciers.

You’ll also fly over the Tasman Glacier on the eastern side of the Southern Alps and close to Mount Cook/Aoraki, New Zealand’s highest peak.

⚐ guided

Address: Franz Josef, Main South Road SH6, Franz Josef 7856, New Zealand

The premier flight over the Mount Cook National Park and its vast glaciers and snowfields.

See the ancient waters of the Tasman Glacier lake before flying the length of the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s longest glacier. Experience what it feels like to stand in the snow in the mountains as you take in a spectacular view of New Zealand’s highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook during your snow landing.

Cross to the West Coast and view the formidable Franz Josef and Fox glaciers before completing your journey with uninterrupted views of the summit ridge of Aoraki and Mount Cook.

+ optional (not included in price)

⚐ guided

Address: Glentanner Park, State Highway 80, Mount Cook 7999, New Zealand

Your first stop will be Mount Aspiring National Park, where you can stretch your legs and feed your soul in this beautiful wilderness of native forests and towering mountains. As you exit the national park, you will travel through what is known as “The Neck” a formation of land that separates two of our great South Island lakes, Hawea and Wanaka. Wanaka is also a lively town known for its outdoor activities and many water sports that take place on the lake.

From: Franz Josef Glacier
To: Wanaka

Leave Franz Josef and head towards Mount Aspiring National Park.

Named after Mount Aspiring, one of New Zealand’s highest peaks, this park is a dreamland of mountains, glaciers, river valleys and alpine lakes. Stretch your legs and feed your soul in this beautiful wilderness of native forests, towering mountains and long river valleys.

As you exit Mount Aspiring National Park you will travel through what is known as “The Neck” a formation of land that separates two of our great South Island lakes, Lake Hawea and Lake Wanaka.

Wanaka is a lively town known for its outdoor activities. Enjoy water sports on Lake Wanaka, visit the Wanaka Tree or go skiing in winter. With the Southern Alps and Mount Aspiring National Park on its doorstep, Wanaka is an awe-inspiring natural playground.

Based right on the lake in Wanaka, Edgewater’s hotel rooms, one-bedroom apartments, two-bedroom apartments and deluxe one-bedroom apartments are sure to meet all of your holiday accommodation needs.

Open from 10am daily, the Wineglass Cafe offers some of the best views of Lake Wanaka. Sargoods restaurant is also open for breakfast daily and for lunch and dinner functions. Guests can enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments for relaxation at Edgewater’s on-site Element Day Spa.

Address: Edgewater Hotel- Lake Wanaka, New Zealand Sargood Drive, Wanaka, New Zealand

Covering an area of 192 kilometres-squared, Lake Wanaka is New Zealand’s fourth largest lake. Situated in the stunning alp region of the South Island, the Wanaka region continues to draw travellers in with its breathtaking natural beauty and hive of activity.

The town by the same name, Wanaka, sits at the foot of the lake and is a popular destination filled with galleries, boutique shops and a number of cool cafes and restaurants. It’s proximity to the UNESCO-listed Mt Aspiring National Park makes Wanaka the ultimate base for outdoor activities.

Even though it has four distinct seasons, Lake Wanaka is a year-round destination bringing watersports enthusiasts, hikers and cyclists in summer, skiers and snowboarders in winter, trekkers in spring and photographers in Autumn to catch the beautiful oranges and reds on the trees which frame the lake.

Whichever way you choose to explore this outstanding region, whether that be by a scenic flight, a boat on the water, on a bicycle or on foot, you’ll be impressed by its sheer natural beauty.

+ optional (not included in price)

Address: Lake Wanaka, Otago, New Zealand

Go on a half-day jet boating trip beneath the spectacular scenery of glaciers, Lord of the Rings film locations, and into Mount Aspiring National Park. Beyond stunning, the Matukituki is the most spectacular jet boating river in New Zealand. You’ll also have the option of a boat cruise to the remote Mou Waho Island nature reserve, predator-free and home to the rare flightless Buff Weka which has been extinct on the mainland since 1920. In the afternoon, take a private car to Queenstown.

Hop on board a boat cruise to the remote and magical Mou Waho Island nature reserve, which is predator-free and home to the rare flightless Buff Weka (extinct on the mainland since 1920).

A one-hour return guided bush walk is included, which takes you up to reveal the island’s secret – a lake right on top of the island! Or, you can just sit back, relax and enjoy the birdlife at the beach and shelter at the island base with your own morning or afternoon tea.

We have “High Tea” on top of the island overlooking both of these lakes, where you can drink in the vibrant birdsong and the panorama of the Southern Alps spread out before us. Plant a native tree as part of your eco-experience. This is a unique opportunity to give back to this special island and New Zealand’s environment.

+ optional (not included in price)

⚐ guided

Address: Lakeside Rd, Wanaka 9305, New Zealand

Embark on the most exciting half-day Jet Boating adventure in New Zealand beneath the spectacular scenery of Glaciers and Lord of the Rings film locations, into Mount Aspiring National Park, part of Te Wahipounamu World Heritage area.

Beyond stunning, the Matukituki is the most spectacular jet boating river in New Zealand. Flowing from Glaciers, the pristine waters of the river are perfect to experience jet boating on the longest and most adventurous jet boat tour in New Zealand.

Travel at speed over shallow braids, drift into turns and experience thrilling spins, stopping in deep pools to breathe in the magic of the landscape whilst listening to stories of the land from your local guides. Deep in the mountains and off the beaten track, you’ll enjoy a 50-minute remote walk through moss-covered forest, waterfalls and glacier-fed streams.

⚐ guided

Address: 99 Ardmore Street, Wanaka 9305, New Zealand

From: Wanaka
To: Queenstown

Leave Wanaka for Queenstown via Central Otago, New Zealand’s fastest-growing wine region and also its most scenic.

From the Cardrona hotel the valley opens out and willows grow beside the little Cardrona River. Don’t be tempted to speed over the last few kilometres to Wanaka or you may miss out on the first view of distant snowy mountains, in particular of Mt Aspiring, towering on the skyline at 3.033.6 metres (9953 feet).

Later, you’ll arrive in Queenstown.

Idyllically situated in the heart of Queenstown and with wonderful views overlooking Lake Wakatipu to The Remarkables mountain range, Hotel St Moritz embodies the spirit of its location. Blending understated luxury with warmth, and genuine hospitality, Hotel St Moritz offers a choice of rooms and suites, each handsomely appointed to cleverly blend timeless classics with modern essentials. Hotel St Moritz features Lombardi Restaurant, Bar and Library, a gymnasium, and hot tub garden.

Offering unparalleled views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain ranges, Hotel St Moritz Queenstown is perfectly positioned for sightseeing and adventure. Take a stroll down the Esplanade for spectacular waterfront views, and into the town centre for wine, dining and a spot of shopping. You’ll be just a short drive to all four of Queenstown’s ski fields and popular attractions including the Shotover Jet.

Address: Hotel St Moritz Queenstown – MGallery by Sofitel Brunswick Street, Queenstown, New Zealand

Milford Sound is an area of extraordinary beauty. Your 35- minute flight finishes with an overflight of Milford Sound, then board your Milford Sound Cruise and traverse the full 12km of the fiord. Scenic highlights include the famous Skippers Canyon, the Paradise region, and the Donne glacier. Your return flight takes in the alpine lakes and waterfalls that Fiordland National Park is recognised for. If this flight isn’t for you, there are many others in the area covering Queenstown and Fiordland.

Milford Sound flights are the best way to reach this isolated gem.

Situated on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand, it is a world-renowned area of extraordinary beauty. Milford Sound is actually named incorrectly, it actually is a fiord, which measures 12 km long and is up to 320 metres deep.

The fiord receives an average yearly rainfall of approximately 7.5m (300 inches) because it is situated on one of the world’s most formidable coastlines, which is subject to rapidly changing weather conditions. The weather is famous for its ability to deteriorate or improve within a very short period of time. These dramatic weather patterns result in some of nature’s most amazing scenery transformations, especially when viewed from one of the Milford Sound scenic flights – which you are about to go on!

Scenic highlights include the famous Skippers Canyon, the Paradise region (made popular as film locations for Lord of the Rings), and the Donne glacier among many other awe inspiring features. Your 35-minute flight concludes with an overflight of the fiord of Milford Sound, prior to landing. Your pilot escorts you to the boat docks to board either the ‘Pride’ or ‘Spirit of Milford’ to enjoy your Milford Sound Cruise where you traverse the full length of the 12km fiord over 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Following your cruise, your return flight takes in many of the pristine alpine lakes and waterfalls that Fiordland National Park is recognised for, including the Sutherland Falls which span 580m (1904ft).

⚐ guided

Address: 3 Tex Smith Lane, Frankton, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

There is no better way to see Milford Sound than by helicopter.

Lift off from the Heliworks hangar and see the Wakatipu basin unfold in front of you as you climb up and over Queenstown itself before crossing the Richardson  Mountains on your way to Milford Sound.

The Dart and Rees rivers meet at the head of Lake Wakatipu to the North and the Greenstone and Caples valleys, famous for their backcountry fishing, to the south. Fly over the forested Hollyford valley and enjoy views of numerous alpine lakes before heading to the Ngapunatoru Plateau for a glacier landing. There will be time for photos and even some snowballs!

Return to Queenstown over the Humboldt Mountains and enjoy a second scenic landing with either spectacular lake views or a distinctly glacial vista!

+ optional (not included in price)

⚐ guided

Address: Milford Sound, New Zealand

Queenstown sits on the shore of crystal-clear Lake Wakatipu amidst dramatic mountain ranges; this stunning location will blow you away. Activities like paragliding, zip-lining, 4WD driving, and kayaking are the perfect way to enjoy Queenstown’s beautiful outdoors. If adventure isn’t your thing and you need time to kick back and relax, there are many rejuvenating experiences or treat yourself to some excellent local food and wine. Queenstown is one of the world’s top holiday destinations – enjoy!.

Arrowtown is a living historical settlement with many stories to tell. Wander the tree-lined streets of restored cottages and explore the gold mining sites of this quaint town.

A special highlight is a Chinese settlement at the edge of the river. Built by Chinese miners from 1868, this area of restored shelters and buildings paints a picture of times past. In April and May, Arrowtown ignites with colour as deciduous trees prepare for winter, emblazed with rich colours of red and orange.

+ optional (not included in price)

Address: Arrowtown, New Zealand

Queenstown is the ultimate adventure destination with exciting activities amidst some of New Zealand’s most spectacular natural scenery.

The town likes to be known as the ‘adventure capital of the world’, and it is not hard to see why with the enormous array of adrenaline-packed adventures that are available to explore.

Travellers from all over the world flock to Queenstown to experience activities such as skiing, 4×4 driving, golf and ziplining. Water sports like kayaking, jet boating and river rafting are the perfect way to enjoy Queenstown’s beautiful lakes.

Other activities like skydiving and bungy jumping offer an exhilarating day out and a great way to see the landscape of Queenstown from an entirely different angle.

+ optional (not included in price)

Address: Queenstown, New Zealand

Relax in the morning and when the time is right, you’ll take a private car to the airport.

From: Queenstown
To: Queenstown Airport