New Zealand Vacation Itinerary - The Ultimate New Zealand Escape

The Ultimate New Zealand Escape Unique, upmarket accommodations set amongst spectacular scenery, the opportunity to relax in privacy or indulge in adventure, not too much moving around but enough destinations for a variety of landscapes – simply the ultimate. Enjoy day trips from these hub locations. Book this itinerary

Itinerary

Arrival into New Zealand is at either Auckland or Christchurch where you immediately transfer to a connecting flight to Queenstown. The balance of the day is yours to relax at your accommodation, enjoying the views and indulging in the surrounding beauty.
Accommodation: Your Lodge provides luxury accommodation overlooking the magnificent Lake Wakatipu and offers guests a standard of service and care that is second to none. 4 night stay.

You have one full day to relax and enjoy the spectacular views or perhaps indulge in one or some of the adventures the Queenstown area has to offer. The Queenstown Activity list provided in your daily planner provided will assist with your decision.
Accommodation: Same as previous night.

Today you will jetboat the Dart River and then take an easy 1-1½ hour walk through the forest. You will retrace the stops of our pioneer miners and farmers in a 4WD vehicle and enjoy a picnic in the wilderness. This is Lord of the Rings country!
Accommodation: Same as the previous night.

A day trip to remember for a lifetime! You will be taken in a luxury glass roofed coach along the shores of Lake Wakatipu through to Te Anau and onto Milford. At Milford you will board the Milford Mariner for a leisurely cruise of the fiord. Have your camera ready! At the completion of your cruise you will then experience the beauty of the Sounds by air!
Accommodation: Same as previous night

Today you bid your lakeside retreat goodbye “and head for the hills”, the Southern Alps to be exact. Your journey takes you over the Lindis Pass with its smooth velvety brown rolling mountains. You will then continue on to the dramatic peaks of the Southern Alps with Mt Cook dominating the skyline. There is time to enjoy a scenic flight to see the mighty Mt Cook up close and the many glaciers that surround the mountain,like a skirt of ice. The turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki and Tekapo offer the perfect picnic spot for lunch.

Accommodation: Your Hotel is a renowned accommodation residing in the alpine village of Mt Cook, surrounded by the towering peaks of the Southern Alps. A spectacular alpine view of this World Heritage Park can be enjoyed from your superior room. 1 night stay.

Today's drive is only two hours, so you may choose to relax amongst the spendour of your remote Hotel or you may want to dash to indulge in some shopping, arts and gardens in Christchurch city before heading to your luxurious Lodge.
Accommodation: Your accommodation has been lovingly restored to her original grandeur, but boasting all the modern amenities you would expect in an exclusive luxury lodge. 2 night stay.

A full day to enjoy your country estate with its gardens, day spa, gymnasium and horse riding. If city action beckons, Christchurch city is only 20 minutes away. You may also enjoy a day trip to Akaroa, Kaikoura or Arthur's Pass National Park.
Accommodation: Same as previous night.

Today you say goodbye to the South Island and head north. A flight from Christchurch transports you to Auckland. Upon arrival at the “City of Sails” you pick up your last rental car and head over the Harbour Bridge to your accommodation. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax at your accommodation or venture out and explore this vibrant city.
Accommodation: Your accomodation is a gracious historic double bay villa luxuriously renovated and decorated. 2 night stay.

Take a stroll along the Viaduct, visit Kelly Tarlton's Undersea World and Auckland National Museum. Take the ferry to Waiheke Island with its vineyards and boutique cafes for the day.
Accommodation: Same as previous night.

Today you head north to your final New Zealand destination. We have chosen a location and accommodation that is sure to leave a lasting impression! This region offers thick native bush to walk through and endless water sports from sailing to dolphin swimming to fishing. Do it all or do nothing.
Accommodation: You will enjoy the stunning views and serenity from your hillside retreat! 3 night stay.

A full day to relax on a beach or explore the Bay of Islands and Far North Region. Sailing amongst the islands is glorious - whether on a self skippered bareboat or a grand Tall Ship. A journey up Ninety Mile Beach to Cape Reinga to see where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean offers a great day trip. See the Bay of Islands Activity List in your daily planner for options in the region.
Accommodation: Same as previous night

Your second day at the Bay of islands. A wonderful option is to kayak up the sheltered waters of the Waitangi Estuary to spend time exploring the mysterious mangrove forest. Spend time paddling at leisure amongst the trees and view fish and bird life along the way. Perhaps the arts, crafts and vineyards of Kerikeri beckon you? Or maybe a day of relaxing in the sun on a beach is your wish for your last day in paradise.

Accommodation: Same as previous night

Last day in paradise! Depending on your international departure flight, you may or may not have time today to further enjoy your glorious accommodation and setting. At the appropriate time you will need to head back to Auckland and the International Airport for your international departure.
Accommodation:

Pricing and Inclusions

Inclusions

• Upmarket Luxury Accommodations Listed
• 12 Breakfasts
• 3 Dinners
• Dart River Jetboat Adventure
• Luxury 4wd Toyota Prado or Ford Explorer Rental
• Milford Sound - Coach Cruise & Fly

Exclusions

• Any required Domestic Flights
• International Flights
• Departure tax (see Travel Tips)
• Meals not specified
• Optional activities not specified

Departures

Accommodation and Meals

	The Essence of New Zealand	22 days Self Drive
	New Zealand's Most Popular Sights	14 days Self Drive
	Our Favourite North and South Island Tour	14 days Self Drive
	Guided Milford Track & The South Island	14 days Self Drive
	Wilderness, Wildlife, Walks & Wine	14 days Self Drive
	21 Day Middle Earth Adventure	21 days Self Drive
	South Island Family Folly	14 days Self Drive
	The Ultimate New Zealand Escape	13 days Self Drive
	Family Fun - 14 day North and South Island Tour	14 days Self Drive