Journey Through New Zealand

(13 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Auckland, Rotorua & Taupo, Hawke’s Bay, Canterbury, West Coast & Franz Josef Glacier, Queenstown & Milford Sound

This is the ultimate private luxury tour of New Zealand. It’s ideal for travelers wanting to experience the best of the North and South Islands, including the most impressive natural and cultural attractions, outstanding luxury lodges in inspiring locations, incredible food and wine, and activities such as a private helicopter excursion to Milford Sound, a scenic train journey over the Southern Alps, and heli-hiking on a glacier.

Begin in Auckland, a cosmopolitan city built on volcanic hills overlooking a scenic bay. Enjoy a private tour that explores the city's most interesting neighborhoods, cultural attractions, and beautiful landscapes.
 
Next, transfer through the bucolic countryside to Rotorua, a highlight of the North Island. Enjoy flexible private touring of the region’s top attractions, such as active geothermal areas, Maori culture and a New Zealand sheep show. Continue to the lakeside town of Taupo and Huka Lodge, one of New Zealand's most acclaimed lodges. One day, take a private cruise on beautiful Lake Taupo, and perhaps try fishing for the lake’s abundant trout.

Continue to Hawke's Bay, a beautiful region of vineyards, orchards, rolling hills and beaches. Stay at The Farm at Cape Kidnappers, an exclusive lodge perched high above the sea. During private touring with your expert local guide, visit local vineyards, artisanal food shops and cultural sites. Also tour Napier, a seaside town filled with Art Deco architecture.

Next, fly to Christchurch on the South Island. Following an introductory private tour of the Garden City, transfer through the Canterbury countryside to Grasmere Lodge, a luxury lodge on a historic homestead in the foothills of the Southern Alps. One day, take a four-wheel drive tour of the extensive property.

Then, board the TranzAlpine train for one of the world's most scenic rail journeys. Travel over Arthur's Pass to Greymouth, passing through the high peaks of the Southern Alps and the rainforest of the West Coast. Upon arrival, transfer along the West Coast to Franz Josef. Enjoy a guided heli-hiking excursion on Franz Josef Glacier, as well as flexible touring of other regional highlights such as a bird sanctuary, lakes and native bush.

Next, transfer to Queenstown along the scenic Haast Pass Highway, taking in stunning views of mountains, rivers and lakes en route. Around the lakeside resort of Queenstown, enjoy a private tour of a historic gold mining town, wine country and other regional attractions. Continue to Matakauri Lodge, a luxury lodge overlooking Lake Wakatipu just outside Queenstown. One day, take a thrilling Dart River jet boat safari into the magnificent landscapes of Mount Aspiring National Park. Another day, take a spectacular private helicopter flight over the Alps to Milford Sound, one of New Zealand's most iconic and dramatic attractions.