Magical New Zealand

After breakfast, we will arrive in Auckland, known as the City of Sails. A private transfer will take us to our hotel located in the heart of the vibrant waterfront district. The Britomart Hotel offers views of Waitematā Harbour and blends sustainable design with contemporary comfort. It is a calm and stylish base to begin our journey.

You will have free time to rest or explore the nearby boutiques, galleries, and cafes tucked into the laneways of Britomart.

In the early evening, we'll gather for welcome cocktails at the hotel. Afterwards, we will walk through the lively Britomart precinct to Amano, one of Auckland’s most celebrated restaurants. Known for its seasonal Italian-inspired cuisine and stylish setting, Amano highlights ingredients sourced from local farms and producers. It is a relaxed and flavorful way to open our week together.

After breakfast at the hotel, we will leave the city and travel south into the Waikato region, an area known for its rolling farmland and rich cultural heritage.

Our first stop will be at the countryside home of a local chef and interior designer. Here we will enjoy a private cooking demonstration with a distinctly Kiwi flair, followed by a relaxed lunch in a beautifully styled rural setting.

In the afternoon, we will visit the renowned Hamilton Gardens. Unlike any other public garden in the world, this award-winning site tells the story of global gardening traditions through a series of themed spaces. From a traditional Chinese scholar’s garden to a bold surrealist landscape, each section offers a window into a different time and place.

By late afternoon, we will arrive in Cambridge and check into the Clements Hotel, a restored historic property set right in the town center. With elegant rooms and a warm atmosphere, it is the perfect place to settle in and unwind.

Dinner tonight will be at Alpino, a popular Italian-style restaurant known for its wood-fired dishes and thoughtful wine list.

We'll start the day with breakfast at the hotel. Then, we’ll visit the local Farmers Market in Cambridge which is a sheer delight. There will be some free time to peruse adorable Cambridge shops. 

In the quintessential little town of Otorohanga, we'll walk through New Zealand’s largest free-flight dome aviary, listen to a keeper talk about the brown Kiwi, and see this unique flightless bird up close. The Kiwi is indigenous to New Zealand. We'll also see the tuatara, a native reptile that predates dinosaurs, and take a short drive to the world-renowned Waitomo Glowworm Caves.  

As our guide takes us deep into the cave, we'll see thousands of glowworms. Arachnocampa luminosa is endemic to New Zealand. These tiny creatures radiate their unmistakable luminescent light. Did you know that the female glowworm has a unique ability? Despite the name, the glowworm is not a worm but a beetle. While males resemble typical beetles, the females are easily recognizable by the glowing light they emit. This glow attracts mates in the darkness of their grassland habitats. We'll discover the caves' historical and geological significance through informative commentary. Then, we'll take a magical boat ride under the beautiful glowing lights.

Later in the afternoon, we will visit the Otorohanga Kiwi House. This conservation park is home to New Zealand’s iconic flightless bird and offers a chance to see the brown kiwi up close during a keeper-led talk. We will also meet the tuatara, a rare native reptile that dates back to the age of the dinosaurs, and explore the country’s largest free-flight aviary.

Dinner tonight will be back at the Clements Hotel, offering a cozy and welcoming close to a day rich with nature and discovery.

After an early light breakfast, we will set out for a truly unique experience at Hobbiton, the movie set made famous by The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Whether you are a fan of the films or simply curious, the visit is an extraordinary walk through rolling green hills dotted with hobbit holes, the Mill, and the iconic Green Dragon Inn. We'll enjoy a complimentary drink in this picture-perfect pub before heading to the Millhouse for a hearty brunch overlooking the Shire.

Later, we will stop in the village of Tirau for a bit of independent browsing. Known for its corrugated iron sculptures and quirky charm, this small town is a great place to find homewares, gifts, or clothing from local shops.

By mid-afternoon, we will arrive in Rotorua and check into the Pullman Hotel, a modern property in a prime location near Lake Rotorua and the city’s geothermal attractions. With lake views and thoughtful amenities, it offers a restful space to recharge before the cultural experiences ahead.

We will begin with a visit to Ōhinemutu, a living Māori village where geothermal activity and traditional life blend together. Guided by a local resident, we will walk past steaming vents and bubbling hot pools, and hear how the community uses the natural heat for cooking and bathing. We will also visit St Faith’s Anglican Church, an elegant building that features Māori carvings and stained glass with views over Lake Rotorua.

Our cultural journey continues with a warm welcome at Tunohopu Marae. We will be introduced to the traditional whakatau process, including a ceremonial call and speech. During our visit, we will learn about Māori beliefs, values, and social customs. A traditional hāngī meal will be cooked in the natural geothermal steam, and we will have the opportunity to ask questions, join in songs and dance, and even try the art of poi.

In the evening, we will visit Wai Ariki for a restorative journey that blends indigenous knowledge with spa wellness. This multi-sensory experience uses geothermal heat, water, and mud to rejuvenate body and mind, drawing on the legacy of Ngāti Whakaue healing traditions. It is a beautiful and relaxing close to a powerful day.

After breakfast we'll depart for Tikitere, where we'll walk through clouds of geothermal steam and discover New Zealand’s most active geothermal reserve and mud spa, more commonly known as Hells Gate. Māori warriors used the nutrient-rich waters and mud to heal their battle-scarred bodies. This has been a popular spot for visitors to ease inflammation and rejuvenate skin for the past century.

Spend the morning soaking in the healing sulfur pool, exfoliating in the mud, strolling through the geothermal bushland, and feeling completely refreshed! Light snacks at the cafe will be available.  

The afternoon is yours to enjoy your choice of activity! Rotorua has several thrilling activities: white-water rafting, helicopter-ride to Mt Tarawera volcano, ziplining, walking or cycling in the forest; riding on a WWII amphibious craft. To book please go to Add-On section. 

After dinner at Atticus Finch, we visit the Redwoods Forest for a night walk among the treetops on eco-suspended bridges and platforms. The massive trees are illuminated with beautiful lanterns designed by David Trubridge, creating a truly magical experience.

After breakfast, we will board a flight to Te Waipounamu, the South Island of New Zealand. Upon arrival in Christchurch, we will head straight to the International Antarctic Centre, located just outside the airport. As one of the world’s key Antarctic gateway cities, Christchurch offers a rare chance to engage with the spirit of exploration.

Inside the centre, we will experience the chill of an Antarctic storm in a climate-controlled room, ride in a Hägglund all-terrain vehicle designed for icy landscapes, and observe the adorable Little Blue Penguins during their feeding time. These are New Zealand’s smallest penguins, and their curious personalities are always a highlight.

In the afternoon, we will check into The Observatory Hotel, located within the historic Arts Centre in the heart of Christchurch. With its elegant interiors and creative energy, the hotel offers a peaceful and character-filled stay surrounded by galleries, shops, and green spaces.

Later, we will walk to Cellar Door, a stylish local restaurant just a few steps from our hotel. Over a wine flight tasting and seasonal three course menu, we will enjoy a relaxed evening celebrating regional flavors and thoughtful pairings.

After breakfast, we will begin the day with a gentle punt ride along the Avon River. Guided by a classically dressed punter, we will glide past tree-lined banks and historic buildings, taking in Christchurch from a peaceful and elegant perspective.

Next, we will board a beautifully restored vintage tram for a loop through the city. As we ride, our tram driver will share stories about Christchurch’s heritage and transformation, pointing out key landmarks along the way. A short stop at the Transitional Cathedral will offer insight into this remarkable structure, built from cardboard and designed as a symbol of hope after the Canterbury earthquakes.

Lunch will be independent today at Riverside Market, a lively collection of food stalls and specialty shops housed in an architecturally striking building. With a wide range of local and international flavors, it is the perfect place to sample something new or enjoy a casual bite.

The afternoon is free for you to explore the city at your own pace. You might choose to visit Quake City for a deeper look at the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes, explore the Christchurch Art Gallery, or browse local design stores and galleries. The city’s evolving street art, including works by Wongi Wilson, adds another layer of discovery for those who enjoy walking and photography.

In the evening, we will enjoy dinner at King of Snake, one of Christchurch’s top dining spots. Overlooking the Avon River, the restaurant offers bold Euro Asian flavors in a sleek and moody setting.

After breakfast, we will leave the city behind for a scenic drive through the Canterbury countryside. We will pass through small towns, cross braided rivers, and travel alongside vineyard-covered hills as we make our way into the Hurunui region.

By mid-morning, we will arrive at Nape Nape Farm, a 500 hectare working sheep, beef, and deer property overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Surrounded by native bush and dramatic limestone outcrops, this coastal farm offers a rare chance to experience rural life in Aotearoa. Owners Jenny and Tim will welcome us with a demonstration of their skilled working dogs and share insights into the farm’s daily rhythms, traditions, and commitment to sustainability.

Lunch will be served at the homestead, where we will enjoy fresh regional fare followed by time to stroll through the gardens or simply take in the sea views.

In the afternoon, we will get our hearts pumping with a jet boat ride on the Hurunui River. This exhilarating experience will take us through narrow gorges and wide river plains with plenty of thrills and open-air excitement.

On the return to Christchurch, we will stop in Waipara, one of New Zealand’s premier wine regions, for a relaxed wine and cheese tasting at Greystone Vineyard. Known for its organic practices and award-winning Pinot Noir, Greystone offers a final taste of the land before we continue to a nearby country pub for a casual dinner.

After breakfast, we will journey southeast toward the Banks Peninsula, a region shaped by ancient volcanic activity and known for its coastal beauty. Our drive will take us up and over the hills, offering panoramic views before we descend into the charming harbor town of Akaroa.

Our first stop will be The Giant’s House, a whimsical garden filled with vibrant mosaics and imaginative sculpture. Created by artist Josie Martin, this hillside property has been recognized as a Garden of National Significance and offers a joyful and colorful exploration of art and landscape.

We will enjoy an early lunch of fish and chips on the wharf before boarding a comfortable catamaran for a two hour cruise around Akaroa Harbour. As we sail through the crater rim of this ancient volcano, we will look out for Hector’s dolphins, the world’s smallest and rarest species, as well as seals, seabirds, and perhaps even penguins. With a 98 percent chance of sightings, it is a memorable way to connect with New Zealand’s marine life. Refreshments and homemade treats will be served on board.

Back in Christchurch, we will gather for a final dinner at Manu, where contemporary Māori and Pacific flavors come together in a warm and celebratory atmosphere. It is a fitting close to our journey, surrounded by stories, flavor, and good company.

After breakfast, we will check out of the hotel. A private transfer will take you to Christchurch Airport for your flight home or onward travels.

For those continuing with us on the Queenstown extension, we will transfer to the airport together for our domestic flight to the South Island’s adventure capital, where a new chapter of the journey awaits.

After breakfast, we will say goodbye to those not continuing on the extension and transfer to Christchurch Airport for our flight to Queenstown. Surrounded by jagged peaks and the deep blue of Lake Whakatipu, Queenstown greets us with its dramatic setting and alpine charm.

We will begin with a scenic drive to Arrowtown, a gold rush village nestled along the Arrow River. A short orientation tour will introduce the town’s heritage streets and landmarks, after which you will have free time to explore. Visit the Chinese miners’ settlement, browse boutiques, or take a quiet riverside walk through this picture-perfect historic town.

Later, we will check into Millbrook Resort, a tranquil retreat tucked among rolling hills and fairways just outside Arrowtown. Our deluxe studios offer privacy, space, and sweeping mountain views in one of New Zealand’s most celebrated luxury resorts.

This evening, we will return to Arrowtown for a cozy dinner at Postmasters. Set in a beautifully preserved cottage, this local favorite serves nourishing seasonal dishes in a relaxed setting filled with old-world character.

After breakfast, we will travel through the Gibbston Valley and Kawarau Gorge into Central Otago’s wine country. Our first stop is Te Kano Estate, a boutique vineyard perched above the river where we will enjoy a relaxed wine tasting surrounded by breathtaking views.

Next, we will visit Carrick Vineyard, an organic winery known for its Pinot Noir. We will enjoy lunch on the lawn with handmade pizza and a glass of wine, soaking in the quiet charm of Bannockburn’s rural landscape.

In the afternoon, we will continue to Cardrona for a tasting at the Cardrona Distillery, where award-winning vodka and whisky are crafted in small batches. A short stroll away, we will stop at the historic Cardrona Hotel, a local institution where travelers and locals gather in the garden bar.

We will return to Millbrook Resort via the Crown Range, New Zealand’s highest main road, offering spectacular views as we descend back into the Wakatipu Basin.

Dinner tonight will be at the Millhouse Restaurant, set in a restored stone building just a short walk from your room. The setting is intimate and elegant, and the menu showcases the best of the region.

After breakfast, we will ease into the day with a one-hour Signature Massage at Millbrook Spa. Recognized as New Zealand’s best spa and the winner of multiple global awards, Millbrook Spa offers a peaceful sanctuary surrounded by nature.

We will then head to Ayrburn Bakehouse for a late lunch. Located in a newly restored estate with sweeping grounds, Ayrburn offers elegant cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.

In the afternoon, we will stop at the Kawarau Bridge, home to the world’s first commercial bungy jump. You’ll have the chance to watch thrill seekers take the plunge — or try it yourself if you’re feeling adventurous (optional, at own cost - go to add-on section to sign up).

Our final adventure is a high-speed jetboat ride through the Shotover River canyons. Invented in New Zealand, the jetboat is built for shallow water and sharp turns, making this one of the country’s most iconic thrill rides.

After some free time in central Queenstown, we will board the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship for a cruise across Lake Whakatipu. On arrival at Walter Peak Station, we will enjoy a BBQ dinner at the Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant, followed by a working dog demonstration and a walk through the gardens of this high country farm.

We will cruise back to Queenstown as the sun sets, with live piano music on board and time to reflect on an unforgettable journey.

After breakfast, we will check out of Millbrook Resort and transfer to Queenstown Airport for your onward journey.

Whether you are heading home or continuing your travels, we hope you leave feeling refreshed, inspired, and connected to the spirit of Aotearoa.