- Destination: New Zealand
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Duration: 14 days
Highlights:
Unveil the secrets of both North and South Islands of New Zealand hand in hand with your loved one, romancing the dreamy countryside
Programme Overview
Auckland, Rotoura, Christchurch, Franz Joseph, Wanaka, Queenstown
Highlights
A scenic drive along Auckland’s waterfront & visit the quaint Victorian village of Parnell with panoramic views from the extinct volcano – Mount Eden
Discover Te Aroha’s rich history
A helicopter tour of White Island / Mount Tarawera Active Volcano
Te Po Combo & Te Puia Indigenous Experiences
Tranz Alpine Train to Greymouth
A private scenic helicopter tour over Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier
A private hot pool reservation at the Glacier Hot Pools
A Wanaka Nature Encounter Tour on board a boat cruise on the pristine waters of Lake Wanaka to Mou Waho Island Nature Reserve
A helicopter tour to the World Heritage listed Milford Sound
A tandem jump/ sky diving near Queenstown
A&K Advantage
Visit Rainbow Springs for an exclusive tour through Kiwi Encounter
Join an Old Antarctic Explorer on an exclusive and personalized tour of Christchurch’s International Antarctic Centre
Private arrival and departure airport transfers
The services of an A&K Representative
* On arrival in each country, you are welcomed by your A&K Representative who conducts a briefing on your time in the country. An A&K Representative is always at hand to provide unparalleled 24/7 support, be it local travel tips or reconfirming arrangement details, to providing recommendations for restaurants and shopping. Should you ever need help or advice, dial your A&K Representative’s mobile phone for prompt and courteous service at any time.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: AUCKLAND
On arrival into Auckland meet your A&K guide and transfer by private vehicle to your accommodation where you will be assisted with check-in.
This contemporary hotel is located 300 metres out to sea on Princes Wharf offering superb views across Auckland’s harbour and city. Built in the concept of a luxury ship, the hotel is the focal point of the wharf development and boasts an upbeat mix of apartments, retail outlets, restaurants, and cafes and bars. The hotel is also within easy walking distance of Auckland’s CBD and Viaduct Basin, the hub of the city’s new restaurant and nightlife scene.
Overnight: Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour
Meal plan: B
Day 2: AUCKLAND
Morning at leisure
This afternoon meet your A&K guide in the lobby and depart on your half day private sightseeing tour of Auckland. Today’s sightseeing tour of Auckland includes a scenic drive along the waterfront, the quaint Victorian village of Parnell and panoramic views from the extinct volcano–Mount Eden. At the Auckland Museum see a world-renowned collection of Polynesian arte facts including a 25-metre long war canoe built in 1836. On conclusion you will return to your accommodation.
The area around the hotel is an extremely vibrant one and is great for eating out and partying, with a selection of more than 30 exciting bars and restaurants. Auckland’s Classic nightlife in the Viaduct area kicks off around 5pm on a Friday with after-work drinks and also makes for a lively Saturday night.
Enjoy a fantastic meal overlooking the water followed by a drink at one of the popular bars such like Goldfinch or Soul. Or you could dance the night away at Snapdragon and Spy Bar. Alternately, you could do a pub crawl & head to Danny Doolans or O’Hagan’s Irish Pub for some live music and a pint.
Overnight: Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour
Meal plan: B
Day 3: AUCKLAND / ROTOURA
Depart by private vehicle to your accommodation in Rotoura. A journey of approximately three hours; travelling south through the lush pasturelands of the Waikato, stopping en-route for lunch (own expense) and an optional bush walk, at the settlement of Te Aroha. Discover Te Aroha’s rich history when “taking the waters” was a fashionable pastime and a cure for everything. Be transported back in time to the gold mining days of Waiorongomai Valley where fortunes were made and lost, where you can still follow old miner’s trails and discover relics of the gold rush days. On completion continue to your accommodation in Rotoura.
Nestled in 2,500 acres of 800-year old native forest, award-winning Treetops Lodge & Wilderness Experience is a life-long dream realised by owner and passionate naturalist, John Sax. This uniquely New Zealand experience is a sanctuary and retreat of breathtaking terrain, offering the ultimate in world-class accommodation and adventure. Located in Rotoura the Maori heartland and trout fishing capital of the world the Lodge’s elegant, ecology-inspired architectural style was derived from the country’s pioneering past, with timber and stone finishes echoing the natural beauty and simplicity of the great outdoors. Treetops offer seven streams, on-site trout fishing, four lakes, and over 70 kilometers of adventure trails.
Overnight: Treetops Lodge & Estate
Meal plan: B
Day 4: ROTOURA
Today’s full day tour begins with a visit to the beautiful Government Gardens and the Rotoura Museum housing exhibits devoted to the 1886 eruption of Mount Tarawera, a nearby dormant volcanic mountain. You will then visit Rainbow Springs where you will take a tour through Kiwi Encounter, a hatchery and nursery for the unique and treasured “Kiwi” bird. You may enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch enjoy a stroll through the magnificent Redwood Forest before returning to your accommodation.
This A&K exclusive tour is all about becoming better acquainted with New Zealand’s exclusive kiwi. Your tour will begin with a brief introduction at the incubation room and hatchery where you are able to see the equipment working. You will then continue to the Kitchen where the artificial diet for the young kiwi is prepared and you can see a variety of interesting food including worms and insects! Visit the nursery room filled with “brooders” – breeding units where the kiwi chicks stay in the nursery until they are approx. 400 grams in body size then they are moved to outdoor enclosures where they grow until they are 1.2kg. From here you will enter the indoor nocturnal area where kiwi enclosures are completely open with no partitions between the kiwi and visitors! Your tour concludes with a static display of Kiwi Encounter that provides a wealth of information and audio visual of kiwi.
Overnight: Treetops Lodge & Estate
Meal plan: B
Day 5: ROTOURA
This morning meet your pilot in the lobby and make your way to your waiting helicopter to depart on your White Island / Mount Tarawera Active Volcano Tour.
Have you ever wondered what it is like standing on the edge of a live volcanic crater? Fly to White Island and land for a guided walk in the crater of New Zealand’s most active Volcano, once home to factory workers who mined the island for Sulphur. Ruined remains of this hard life still exist today. During your flight be on the lookout for dolphins, a common sight in the Pacific Ocean. Your return flight includes an exclusive Mount Tarawera landing. On conclusion you will be returned to your accommodation.
You will have time at leisure until late afternoon when you are collected from your accommodation by private vehicle and transferred to connect with the scheduled evening cultural experience.
Te Po Combo is an Indigenous Evening Experience plus the Te Puia Daytime Experience – a feast of storytelling, entertainment and Maori cuisine, with a daytime guided tour included. Enjoy an exclusive guided tour at 4:30pm with one of Te Puia’s world renowned guides. It includes a visit to the New Zealand national carving and weaving schools where you can watch these disciplines in practice under the guidance of our master carvers and weavers. The tour will include a visit to the award winning interactive galleries and Kiwi House, where you can see New Zealand’s flightless bird up-close, followed by a visit to the mud pools and geysers.
Po evening experience begins at Te Keketanga-a-Rangi (Heavenly Origins), a space comprising twelve monumental carvings reaching skyward. Hear stories of the past prior to assembling at the waharoa (gateway) of our marae. Experience an authentic Maori welcome ceremony, warrior’s challenge and kappa haka (performing arts) concert.
The Maori Feast a culinary opportunity like no other. The range of traditional and indigenous inspired dishes has been designed to create a memorable cultural experience. On conclusion you will be met and transferred by private vehicle back to your accommodation.
Overnight: Treetops Lodge & Estate
Meal plan: B
Day 6: ROTOURA/ CHRISTCHURCH
Meet your A&K chauffeur in the lobby and transfer by private vehicle to the airport to connect with your domestic flight to Christchurch.
On arrival in Christchurch you will be met by your chauffer who will help transfer you to your hotel. The George, a luxury boutique hotel, is the essence of supreme comfort and is renowned for offering a personalized stay and attentive staff as well as two award winning restaurants. Located in the heart of Christchurch overlooking the picturesque Hagley Park and river Avon you will find a peaceful retreat. Impeccable service in an intimate ambience is guaranteed at The George, the only Christchurch Hotel with a one-to-one staff to guest ratio.
Unwind a bit & later meet your A&K guide and be taken on a private afternoon sightseeing tour. Today’s sightseeing tour includes a scenic drive along the River Avon the Botanical Gardens. Drive to the top of the Port Hills for a wonderful vista of Christchurch and the surrounding countryside including quaint Lyttleton Harbour. Visit the International Antarctic Centre that focuses on the great southern continent and join an exclusive tour. Enjoy a leisurely punt on the Avon River before being returned to your accommodation.
Join a 3-hour personalized Antarctic experience by visiting an Old Antarctic Explorer on an exclusive and personalized tour of Christchurch’s International Antarctic Centre discovering New Zealand’s Scott Base, The Snow & Ice Experience and the Antarctic Storm where you will experience extreme wind chill Antarctic conditions. Enjoy a cruise to Antarctica on board an Antarctic Cruise Ship in the brand new 4D Extreme Theatre or enjoy watching the penguins being fed in the New Zealand Penguin Encounter.
Overnight: The George Christchurch
Meal plan: B
Day 7: CHRISTCHURCH/GREYMOUTH/FRANZ JOSEPH
Meet your A&K chauffeur in the lobby and transfer by private vehicle to the Christchurch train station to connect with the Tranz Alpine train to Greymouth.
The Transalpine scenic train journey travels between Christchurch and Greymouth, from one coast of New Zealand to the other. Climb into the Southern Alps and descend through lush beech rain forest to the West Coast town of Greymouth.
On arrival in Greymouth meet your A&K driver / guide who will escort you down the West Coast of New Zealand over the coming days. You will depart Greymouth for Franz Josef, a journey of approximately two and a half hours. The road to Franz Josef is rural, but with a wild streak. The farmland is trying to turn back into forest, and the beauty of the rivers is raw and primeval. On arrival in Franz Josef you will be set down at your accommodation.
Westwood Lodge has a warm relaxed atmosphere in a quiet rural setting and is only minutes from the world-renowned Franz Josef Glacier. The lodge is set in bush and farmlands with views of the mountains. It is just a short stroll to the township of Franz Josef and to all activities. It is the perfect place to relax and unwind, with just the right level of personal attention and unobtrusive service.
Overnight: Te Waonui Forest Retreat
Meal plan: B
Day 8: FRANZ JOSEPH
Meet your A&K driver / guide in the lobby and transfer by private vehicle to connect with your private scenic helicopter tour.
This premier flight lets you experience two of New Zealand’s finest National Parks. Discover the gigantic expanse of the Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier snowfields with a landing at high altitude. Step out of your helicopter and experience how it feels to stand in snow. The flight includes fantastic views of the Tasman Glacier and Mount Cook.
After your helicopter tour meet your driver / guide and enjoy an afternoon touring this area. Franz Josef Glacier Village’s natural credentials are impeccable and there is a huge variety of natural attractions just a short distance from the Franz Josef Glacier Village. Lakes, rainforests, surging waterfalls and the glacial rivers of ice mean that the area is an adventure and leisure destination that is ready to be explored. The Village itself is the hub of the region with restaurants, nightlife and shopping.
This afternoon / evening a private hot pool has been reserved for you (45 minutes) at the Glacier Hot Pools. Your driver / guide will transfer you and from the pools this evening. Nestled in lush rainforest, the Glacier Hot Pools is a haven of natural tranquility and the perfect way to unwind and experience a blissful state of pure relaxation after travelling along Te Tai o Poutini (The West Coast) or enjoying one of its many attractions. The pools are conveniently located in the heart of Franz Josef township on Cron Street, and can be enjoyed all year round from 12 noon to 10pm (Last entry 9pm).
Overnight: Te Waonui Forest Retreat
Meal plan: B
Day 9: FRANZ JOSEPH / LAKE WANAKA
Today make your way to your accommodation in Wanaka, a journey of approximately four hours. Discover the rugged scenery along one of New Zealand’s most awe-inspiring highways. Your journey will take you via the Haast Pass, the southernmost pass that connects the communities of the East and West. Marvel at the vast rainforests to the clearest waterfalls that eclipse this untouched landscape. Enjoy breathtaking sights, from high mountain peaks to blue lakes before arriving into Wanaka.
Situated amongst the mountains of New Zealand’s spectacular Southern Alps on the shores of glacial Lake Wanaka lays a private alpine retreat. Whare Kea Lodge & Chalet is designed to capture the setting’s unique feeling appearing to float above the water giving magnificent vistas in an intimate atmosphere. All of the six suites have a separate bath and shower and have direct access to the sun deck.
Overnight: Whare Kea Lodge & Chalet
Meal plan: B
Day 10: LAKE WANAKA
Today you will enjoy a Wanaka Nature Encounter Tour! You will be collected from your accommodation and transferred to connect with the scheduled boat cruise on the pristine waters of Lake Wanaka to Mou Waho Island nature Reserve. Enjoy a guided walk to the spectacular summit that reveals the island’s secret – A Lake on top of an Island! – Enjoy a serene “High Tea” here, up close and personal with rare native birds, and plant a tree as part of this unique eco experience. On conclusion you will return to Wanaka where you will meet your guide and enjoy lunch before continuing on to the 4WD part of your day.
After lunch experience the stark beauty and solitude of the spectacular high country, bordering a World Heritage area by 4WD. You will explore the private farm tracks on an historic Wanaka sheep, cattle and deer station. From the site of Nehenehe, an ancient Maori settlement abandoned in the 1830, to the ruins of Wanaka’s first European settler’s farmhouses, this journey offers a unique insight into Wanaka’s rich history, heritage and modern-day farming life. On conclusion of your tour you will be returned to your accommodation.
Overnight: Whare Kea Lodge & Chalet
Meal plan: B
Day 11:LAKE WANAKA/ QUEENSTOWN
Meet your A&K driver / guide in the lobby and transfer by private vehicle to Queenstown, a journey of approximately one hour. Your journey today is alongside the Clutha River, Lake Dunstan and the Shot over River, through to Queenstown. The vineyards of the Gibbston area and bungee jumpers at the Kawarau River Bridge are interesting distractions along the way.
This afternoon, we would highly recommend an adrenaline rush activity and an experience that will change your life forever! Do the tandem jump at N Zone! Experience immense personal challenge & satisfaction as you step out of that aircraft door and free-fall at 200km/hour for some 60 odd seconds. Skydive & parachute over the amazing mountains & get a bird’s eye view of Lake Wakatipu.
At the end of the dive, you will get some photos & videos that will capture this experience for a lifetime!
Matakauri Lodge offers absolute comfort as well as stunning panoramic views. The Lodge and its adjoining suites are luxuriously appointed and have been designed to be in harmony with the lakefront environment and surrounding bush. It is one of New Zealand’s most private and serene vacation retreats, nestled among bush on the edge of Lake Wakatipu, just 10 minutes’ drive from Queenstown. Lodge facilities included a business centre, full equipped gymnasium, heated infinity pool and Jacuzzi.
Note: During cocktails and dinner, gentlemen are required to wear a jacket (the Lodge has jackets available for guest use at Reception).
Overnight: Matakauri Lodge
Meal plan: B
Day 12: QUEENSTOWN
Today you will be whisked by helicopter to the World Heritage listed Milford Sound flying over secluded alpine lakes, lush rainforest, through deep bush-fringed valleys and past rugged mountain peaks. Take in the beauty of the Southern Alps on your way into Milford Sound, experiencing this amazing glacial creation. View Lake Quill, the source of the spectacular Sutherland Falls and the second highest waterfall in the Southern Hemisphere.
Sweep the full length of the fiord, flying to a remote West Coast beach to view seal colonies. Before heading for home, weather permitting, you have a chance to land on top of the world – where you can stand among the ancient ice flows of the Fiord land Glaciers. Enjoy a picnic lunch before flying back to Queenstown and transfer to the hotel.
Overnight: Matakauri Lodge
Meal plan: B, L
Day 13: QUEENSTOWN
Today’s tour of the Wakatipu basin includes a visit to the historic gold-mining settlement of Arrow town, local artist studios and the Lakes and District Museum, followed by the Kawarau Bridge made famous by A.J. Hackett and over one million bungee jumpers.
After private winery experience and lunch you will return to Queenstown to take the Skyline Gondola cable car ride to Bob’s Peak for spectacular panoramic views over Lake Wakatipu. On conclusion you will be returned to your accommodation.
Mount Edward winery is situated in the Gibbston sub region of Central Otago, some 25km east of Queenstown. Founded in 1997 by the godfather of Central Otago Pinot Noir, Alan Brady, the winery grows limited quantities of premium pinot noir, single vineyard designates, and small batch classic white varieties. The first Mount Edward vineyard, “The Drumlin”, is situated on the steep hillside slope next to the winery and is testament to both hard work and vision, the 30 deg slope a reminder that nothing great can come easily.
Overnight: Matakauri Lodge
Meal plan: B, L
Day 14: QUEENSTOWN
Meet your A&K chauffeur in the lobby and transfer by private vehicle to the airport to connect with your onward flight.
Meal plan: B
Extension options:
Option 1:
5 Days BORA BORA
Day 1: AUCKLAND TO PAPEETE
Take a private charter flight from Auckland to Papeete.
On arrival you will be welcomed by your A&K Representative traditionally with flower lei and transfer to your resort in a private vehicle. Check in to your exclusive room.
Relax and treat yourselves to a private couple’s traditional Polynesian massage. Many of the exotic spa preparations used employ native, natural ingredients like indigenous fruit, flowers and Tahitian vanilla, as well as the mineral-rich black sand of Matavai Bay.
Overnight: Radisson Plaza Resort
Meal plan: B
Day 2: TAHITI – BORA BORA
You will be transferred to Bora Bora by a private charter. Upon arrival, the resort staff will welcome you directly at the airport and take you by a private boat to the resort. The resort overwater villas face the main island of Bora Bora and are the biggest area wise in the Pacific. The villas are designed aesthetically in exotic woods and marble; and feature a private terrace and gazebo which convert the villas into islands of tranquility and romance.
At sunset, saber a bottle of Champagne on the terrace of your villa. Your dedicated waiter will serve you along with an assortment of cold canapés to add to the romance of the view.
Overnight: St Regis Bora Bora
Meal plan: B
Day 3: BORA BORA – LAGOON CRUISE WITH SHARK & RAY DISCOVERY AND LOBSTER CHAMPAGNE LUNCH
This morning you will be taken for a private cruise around the lagoon. Explore the lagoon and to add to the adventure you will go snorkeling. The boat will cruise you to the most stunning spots of the lagoon where you may feed rays, watch sharks & swim in a coral garden. It will also be an amazing opportunity to capture these beautiful sights in a camera. Your morning will end with a stop on an islet for some fresh fruits and juice.
Cruise ahead for the tour of the island. While getting enticed by the island’s exotic charm stop by for a Lobster Champagne lunch.
Arrive at the villa at leisure.
Overnight: St Regis Bora Bora
Meal plan: B, L
Day 4: BORA BORA – PEARL DIVING
Today you will visit the pearl farm located at the main island for a unique pearl diving experience. You will have the opportunity to find the symbol of your eternal commitment as you dive to the bottom of the lagoon to find a pearl. This will be your own pearl, yours to keep and symbolic of your eternal love. You will be taken on a guided tour around the farm.
You can also get a unique, unduplicated creation of jewelry designed and created just for you on the spot. You hand pick the design, mounting and the precious metals that will mirror your personality, sit back and watch your peerless, original Tahitian pearl jewelry take shape.
This evening you may enjoy a romantic and an Intimate candlelit Gazebo dinner on our main beach which will be setup privately and exclusively for you.
Overnight: St Regis Bora Bora
Meal plan: B
Day 5: DEPART BORA BORA
You will be transferred to Papeete in style for your onward flight.
Meal plan: B