Magical New Zealand

Upon your arrival at Auckland airport, our driver will take you to the Britomart Hotel, conveniently situated in the city center. This hotel provides stunning views of Waitematā Harbour and combines sustainable design with modern comfort. It serves as a serene and elegant starting point for our journey.

We'll have free time to relax or explore the nearby boutiques, galleries, and cafes tucked into the laneways of the Britomart neighborhood. 

In the early evening, we'll meet for welcome cocktails at the hotel. Afterwards, we'll take a stroll through the vibrant neighborhood to Amano, one of Auckland’s top restaurants. Renowned for its seasonal Italian-inspired dishes and trendy atmosphere, Amano emphasizes ingredients from local farms and producers. It offers a laid-back and delicious beginning to our week together.

After breakfast at the hotel, we'll 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'll enjoy a private cooking demonstration with a distinct Kiwi flair, followed by a relaxed lunch in a beautifully styled rural setting.

In the afternoon, we'll 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'll 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's 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 delight filled with fresh produce and handmade goods. We'll have some free time afterward to explore the charming shops in Cambridge before we meet for lunch.

In the afternoon, we'll head to Hobbiton, the iconic movie set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Whether a fan or just curious, it's an extraordinary walk through lush hills with hobbit holes, the Mill, and the famous Green Dragon Inn. We'll have a complimentary drink in this lovely pub before heading to the Millhouse for a hearty brunch with views of the Shire.

Dinner tonight will be back in Cambridge at Alpha St., a locally owned, down-to-earth bistro in the heart of town that specializes in local ingredients, honest cooking, and warm service.

After breakfast, we'll set off on a drive to the world-renowned Waitomo Glowworm Caves.  

Once we arrive, our guide will take us deep into the cave, where we'll see thousands of glowworms. Arachnocampa luminosa is endemic to New Zealand. These tiny creatures radiate luminescent light. We'll explore the caves' historical and geological significance through commentary, followed by a magical boat ride under the glowing lights.

A scenic 2-hour drive takes us through to Arapuni, where we'll stop for lunch and stretch our legs with a stroll over the swing bridge for views of the Waikato River and dam.

By mid-afternoon, we'll 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're in for a treat with a late-afternoon visit to Wai Ariki for a restorative journey blending indigenous knowledge and wellness. This multi-sensory experience uses geothermal heat, water, and mud to rejuvenate, drawing on Ngāti Whakaue healing traditions. 

Dinner is a fully immersive experience at Te Pā Tū. We'll be formally welcomed onto a marae with a traditional pōwhiri, coming face to face with Māori warriors in a powerful and moving introduction. 

We'll journey through the forest to interactive learning areas where we’ll discover the art of poi, the fundamentals of haka, and gain insight into traditional food preservation methods. 

The experience concludes inside a meeting house, where we’ll enjoy a vibrant performance of traditional song and dance, followed by a hearty hāngī feast, prepared using time-honored Māori cooking techniques.

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, better known as Hell's 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 will be available at the cafe.  

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

Before dinner, we'll visit Ōhinemutu, a living Māori village where geothermal activity and traditional life blend. Guided by a local, we'll walk past steaming vents and hot pools, learning how the community uses natural heat for cooking and bathing. We'll also visit St Faith’s Anglican Church, an elegant structure with Māori carvings and stained glass overlooking 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, our guide will teach us about Māori beliefs, values, and customs.

After dinner at Atticus Finch, we'll 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.

We'll enjoy breakfast before transferring to the airport to board a flight to Te Waipounamu, the South Island of New Zealand. 

Upon touchdown in Christchurch, we'll head to Riverside Market for lunch. There are over 40 stalls to choose from in the market, selling everything from freshly roasted coffee drinks to decked-out hashbrowns and fresh fish. 

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

Around 3 pm, we'll board a small boat for a gentle punt ride along the Avon River. Guided by a classically dressed punter, we'll glide past tree-lined banks and historic buildings, taking in Christchurch from a peaceful and elegant perspective.

Our next stop is a beautifully restored vintage tram for a loop around the city. As we ride, our tram driver will share stories about Christchurch’s history and how it has changed, pointing out important 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.

In the evening, we're in for a thoughtfully prepared 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, moody setting.

Christchurch offers a rare chance to engage with the spirit of exploration as one of the world's five Antarctic Gateway Cities. What better way to learn more about this than with a visit to the International Antarctic Center?

Inside the center, we'll 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.

After our visit, we'll leave the city behind for a scenic drive through the Canterbury countryside. Passing through small towns, crossing braided rivers, and traveling alongside vineyard-covered hills, we'll make our way into the Hurunui region.

By early-afternoon, we'll 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 can enjoy fresh regional fare, followed by time to stroll through the gardens.

In the afternoon, get ready for a boost of adrenaline as we board a jet boat for a ride on the Hurunui River. This exhilarating experience will take us through narrow gorges and vast river plains with plenty of thrills and open-air excitement.

We'll have some time to rest back in Christchurch before gathering for dinner tonight at the Cellar Door, a stylish local restaurant and wine bar just a few steps from our hotel. Over a wine flight tasting and seasonal three-course menu, enjoy a relaxed evening celebrating regional flavors and thoughtful pairings.

We'll fuel up with breakfast and 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 is The Giant’s House, a whimsical garden filled with vibrant mosaics and imaginative sculptures. Created by artist Josie Martin, this hillside property has been designated a Garden of National Significance and offers a joyful, colorful exploration of art and landscape.

We'll sit down for 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, keep an eye 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's a memorable way to connect with New Zealand’s marine life. Refreshments and homemade treats will be served on board.

Back in Christchurch, we'll gather for a final dinner at Twenty Seven Steps on the colorful New Regent Street, where fresh, contemporary flavors come together in a warm, intimate dining den. It's the perfect place to close out this leg of our journey, surrounded by stories, flavor, and good company.

After breakfast, let's pack up and transfer to Christchurch Airport for a short flight to Queenstown. Surrounded by jagged peaks and the deep blue of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown greets us with its dramatic setting and alpine charm.

Once we touchdown, we're headed to the Gibbston Valley and Kawarau Gorge into Central Otago’s wine country. We'll stop along the way at Kawarau Bridge, home to the world’s first commercial bungee jump. You’ll have the chance to watch thrill seekers take the plunge — or try it yourself if you’re feeling adventurous.

Nestled within the gorge, we'll find the Goldfields Mining Center. Mining played a huge part in New Zealand's history, and this authentic site offers spectacular insight into the way of life during the gold-mining days. We'll visit the replica village inspired by real 1860s miners' homes and try our hand at gold panning.

Our next stop offers a calmer atmosphere: Te Kano Estate. This boutique vineyard is perched above the river, where we can enjoy a relaxed wine tasting surrounded by breathtaking views.

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

We're in for a scenic drive to our accommodation via the Crown Range, New Zealand’s highest main road, offering spectacular views as we descend into the Wakatipu Basin.

Coronet Ridge Resort awaits us, with each of us checking into one of their beautifully decorated suites. This 4-star resort is the perfect intersection of nature, elegance, and comfort, feeling like a little slice of paradise in Queenstown.

Dinner will be at the hotel's chic Elevation Bar & Restaurant with sweeping views over the Shotover River as the sun sets. 

After breakfast, it’s a short drive to the historic village of Arrowtown, nestled next to the Arrow River and surrounded by natural beauty. This little town is rich in heritage and charm, with a very cute main street lined with tiny miners’ cottages and boutique shops to browse.

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.

All of that relaxing is going to make us hungry! There's no better place to enjoy a late lunch than at Ayrburn Bakehouse. Located in a newly restored estate with sweeping grounds, Ayrburn offers elegant cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.

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'll board the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship for a cruise across Lake Wakatipu. A barbecue dinner awaits us once we arrive at Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant, followed by a working dog demonstration and a walk through the gardens of this high country farm.

We'll 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'll check out of Coronet Ridge Resort and transfer to Queenstown Airport for onward journeys.

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