Traverse New Zealand at your own pace on this self-drive itinerary, staying in some of the country’s finest accommodation, each with their own charm and plush features. These exclusive properties provide easy access to many of New Zealand’s highlights but are located away from the busier tourist areas. Stays are complemented by superb food, wine, service and facilities.
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On arrival in Auckland, you will be met and transferred to the Marino Ridge luxury hosted accommodation on Waiheke island for a peaceful 2-night stay. (N) (B) Activities on offer: Optional excursions available include wine tasting on Waiheke island, scenic flights over Auckland and surrounding area by seaplane, or charter a yacht in the harbour.
Collect your car hire downtown and drive to the lakeside town of Taupo in the centre of North Island. Stay at Huka Lodge for 2 nights, set among stunning scenery with lakes, forests and waterfalls nearby. (B, D)
Day at leisure to explore the lodge’s manicured gardens, or take a scenic helicopter flight over the Kaimanawa Ranges followed by a cruise on Lake Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand. (B, D)
Drive along the Thermal Explorer Highway towards the award-winning wine region of Hawke's Bay. Check in for 2 nights at the Farm at Cape Kidnappers, set above almost 2,500 hectares of pasture land with 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean. (B, D)
Take advantage of your time in New Zealand’s second largest wine-growing region with a visit to some of the 70 local wineries. Options include a short shared wine-tasting excursion, or private tour taking you into the cellars of some of the country’s finest vineyards. (B, D)
Drive to the Kapiti coast for an overnight stay at Greenmantle Estate, situated just 40km from Wellington. Enjoy an indulgent afternoon tea at the estate with a range of delicious sweet and savoury snacks. (B, D)
Board the Interislander ferry to South Island, passing the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds en route. On arrival, take a water taxi to the Bay of Many Coves resort for a 2-night stay. (B)
Options today include a hike along the worldrenowned Queen Charlotte Track or kayaking along the coastline in search of secluded beaches. (B)
Return to the mainland by water taxi, then drive along the spectacular east coast towards Kaikoura for a 2-night stay at Hapuku Lodge and Treehouses. This contemporary country lodge has suite accommodation in the main lodge, or luxury treehouses set 30 feet above the ground. (B, D)
Discover the rich marine life in the local waters by taking a cruise in search of whales, dolphins and albatross. (B, D)
Drive to Christchurch to catch a short flight to Queenstown. Collect a new hire car and drive west to Te Anau for a 2-night stay at the Fiordland Lodge, at the gateway to some of the most dramatic scenery in New Zealand. (B, D)
Explore the natural beauty of the Fiordland National Park by foot, kayak or cruise. (B, D) Activities on offer: For something special, book an optional spectacular scenic helicopter flight over Milford Sound.
Drive past lakeside vistas on the gentle route to Queenstown and stay 2 nights at Matakauri Lodge. Relax this evening on the shore of Lake Wakatipu with stunning views of The Remarkables mountain range. (B, D)
Day at leisure. Optional pre-bookable excursions include a visit to a working sheep farm, horse riding through glacier-fed rivers and tours into the pristine Dart River Valley. (B, D)
Return your car hire to the airport this morning and fly home, or continue your holiday. (B)
As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
International flights are not included with this itinerary.
This itinerary can be arranged using private transfers by chauffeured car or helicopter between properties. Please ask your consultant for details.
Featuring some of the most luxurious accommodation throughout the tour. Prices are based on the standard category, unless indicated otherwise.
For a price quote based on alternative accommodation standards, to discuss flight options or to tailor this itinerary, please call 020 3930 5042 or email Info@CoxandKings.co.uk.
This tour can be booked / reserved online by clicking on one of the coloured links below.
NZL2018: 15 Nights
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