Highlights of New Zealand

This luxurious introductory tour visits the highlights of New Zealand. Enjoy the most recommended private tours in each location, a variety of stunning landscapes, and accommodation at New Zealand's most acclaimed properties, including elite luxury wilderness lodges and a high country retreat on a working farm.

Begin on the North Island in Auckland, a city of harbors, islands, beaches and volcanic hills. While there, enjoy a private excursion to nearby Waiheke Island, renowned for its beautiful landscapes, excellent vineyards and fine restaurants.

Next, transfer with your private driver-guide to Rotorua, surrounded by volcanoes and active geothermal activity. Enjoy a private tour of the region’s countless natural and cultural attractions and see exploding geysers, steaming lakes, Maori cultural attractions, and a sheep show. Continue to Taupo for two nights at Huka Lodge, one of New Zealand's most acclaimed lodges. While there, enjoy a private cruise on Lake Taupo and the opportunity for fly-fishing, if desired.

Continue to Hawkes Bay, the Tuscany of New Zealand, a region of wine, farms, sun and beaches, and home to some of the country’s oldest and most acclaimed wineries. Stay at an exclusive lodge overlooking the sea. During private touring with your expert local guide, explore the region according to your interests. Perhaps take a tasting tour that visits local vineyards and artisanal food shops, visit a bird sanctuary, go golfing, or tour Napier, a town filled with Art Deco architecture.

Next, continue to Christchurch, the "Garden City." Enjoy a private city tour and see the renowned Arts Centre, the Avon River and the city's lovely parks and gardens. Continue to the nearby countryside and spend several nights in Canterbury at an historic, luxurious homestead . While there, touring highlights include a 4WD tour of the working sheep and cattle station—a quintessential NZ experience—and a tour of beautiful Arthur's Pass National Park.

Conclude in Queenstown, an upscale resort town on the South Island surrounded by the majestic Southern Alps. . Enjoy a private tour of town and nearby Arrowtown before being transferred out to Glenorchy for three nights at a luxury wilderness lodge. While there, we'll arrange for you to take a thrilling Dart River jet boat safari into the magnificent landscapes of Mt. Aspiring National Park. Another day, take a spectacular private flight over the Alps to Milford Sound, one of New Zealand's most famous and dramatic attractions. This memorable tour also includes a glacier landing.