New Zealand in Style

Your journey begins with a VIP meet-and-greet as you disembark in Auckland, where you’ll be escorted smoothly through customs and transferred to the ferry terminal. From here, enjoy a scenic 40-minute cruise across the Hauraki Gulf to Waiheke Island, renowned for its vineyards, beaches and olive groves. The island’s relaxed pace makes it feel like a world away from the city, despite being so close. On arrival, a private transfer takes you to Delamore Lodge, a boutique retreat built into the cliffside, with sweeping views across the gulf. Inspired by both Mediterranean influences and Māori design, the lodge offers just a handful of luxury suites, each with private courtyards. Settle in with pre-dinner drinks and canapés while watching the sun set, before enjoying a restful night in this serene location.

Spend the day indulging in Waiheke Island’s gourmet treasures on a private guided tour. Your experience begins with a visit to an award-winning olive oil mill, followed by tastings at two boutique vineyards, each paired with artisanal treats. Depending on the season, you may savour fresh oysters from Te Matuku Bay, wild honey, green herb spread and fine local cheeses. A highlight of the day is a relaxed vineyard lunch, where the island’s flavours shine in a beautiful setting. Your knowledgeable guide will share stories of the island, its history, and its thriving food culture as you travel between vineyards and coastlines. After a day of indulgence, return to Delamore Lodge to unwind. Perhaps enjoy a glass of wine on your terrace or soak in the bathtub with uninterrupted ocean views, before another peaceful evening in this boutique haven.

This morning, return to Auckland by ferry, where your private driver-guide awaits to take you on a scenic four-hour journey south to Taupō. Along the way, pass through the Waikato region and charming rural towns such as Cambridge and Tokoroa, known for their equestrian and forestry heritage. Approaching Taupō, you’ll witness geothermal landscapes and stop at Huka Falls, where the Waikato River thunders through a narrow gorge. The drive concludes at Huka Lodge, an icon of New Zealand luxury nestled on the riverbank amid manicured gardens. Established in the 1920s, the lodge has hosted royalty and dignitaries, yet retains an intimate feel with only 20 suites. Your stay includes pre-dinner drinks, canapés and a multi-course gourmet dinner that changes daily. With three nights here, you’ll have ample time to experience both the tranquil grounds and the adventures of the Taupō region.

This two-day adventure blends thrilling experiences with serene relaxation amid the stunning landscapes of Lake Taupō and Huka Lodge. On the first day, take a scenic helicopter flight over volcanic craters, forested valleys, and the shimmering expanse of New Zealand’s largest lake. After landing, board a private launch for a three-hour cruise, enjoying a leisurely lunch, fine local wines, and the chance to try trout fishing in these world-renowned waters. Highlights include the striking Māori rock carvings at Mine Bay, a unique cliff-face artwork, before returning to Huka Lodge to unwind with a riverside dinner. Day two is yours to explore at leisure: wander the landscaped gardens, relax by the pool, or enjoy optional activities such as tennis, mountain biking, golf, jet boating, or guided tours with a local Māori descendant. For complete relaxation, indulge in an in-suite massage or facial, ending the day with another exquisite riverside dinner.

After breakfast, depart Taupō with your private driver for a journey east to Hawke’s Bay, one of New Zealand’s most celebrated wine regions. En route, stop in Napier, famed for its Art Deco architecture and coastal charm, before continuing into the countryside for a four-hour wine-tasting tour. Visit two cellar doors to sample the region’s finest vintages, accompanied by a platter-style lunch among the vines. If time allows, ascend Te Mata Peak for panoramic views of the bay and Pacific Ocean. Your day concludes at Rosewood Cape Kidnappers, a luxury lodge perched atop 6,000 rolling acres with dramatic ocean vistas. Blending rustic farmstead design with modern comfort, the lodge offers expansive suites with private balconies. Settle into your Hilltop Junior Suite, then enjoy pre-dinner aperitifs and a refined dining experience in this spectacular coastal retreat.

Today is yours to enjoy the incredible setting of Cape Kidnappers. You may choose to explore the Cape Sanctuary, the largest privately funded wildlife restoration project in New Zealand. Join a Kiwi Discovery Walk to learn about conservation efforts and perhaps even help monitor these rare nocturnal birds. For a different perspective, take a rugged Can-Am tour to the gannet colony or enjoy a shepherding experience on the working farm. Golf enthusiasts can test their skills on the world-class Tom Doak-designed course, which sits dramatically above the Pacific Ocean. Spa treatments with panoramic views provide a more tranquil alternative. In the evening, embark on a private night tour of Cape Sanctuary, entering the world of nocturnal wildlife. With luck, you may glimpse the elusive brown kiwi in its natural habitat. Return to your suite for a restful night.

This morning, transfer to Hawke’s Bay Airport for your flight to Christchurch. Upon arrival, a private driver will take you to Otahuna Lodge, an elegant Victorian mansion set amid pastoral landscapes and gardens. This historic residence, once New Zealand’s largest private home, has been beautifully restored into a boutique luxury lodge with just seven suites. Each room features ornate fireplaces, inglenooks and lavish bathrooms, complemented by fresh flowers from the estate gardens. During your stay, enjoy four-course dinners with expertly paired wines, pre-dinner drinks and canapés, as well as daily breakfasts and a light lunch. The lodge offers a unique blend of history, fine cuisine and refined hospitality, making it an enchanting base for exploring Canterbury. Spend the afternoon settling into your suite or strolling through the extensive gardens before dinner.

Set out today on a private full-day excursion to Akaroa, a picturesque French-inspired town on the Banks Peninsula. The journey itself is scenic, winding along the summit road with sweeping views of farmlands, bays and volcanic landscapes. On arrival, embark on a two-hour harbour cruise to encounter Hector’s dolphins, the world’s smallest and rarest species, as well as penguins and seabirds. Your skipper will share insights into the region’s volcanic past and rich cultural history as you glide past dramatic cliffs. Later, enjoy visits to local highlights such as Barry’s Bay Cheese Factory, the Little River Art Gallery and Birdling’s Flat, known for its wild coastal beauty. A relaxed lunch and tastings are included along the way. Return to Christchurch in the late afternoon and unwind at Otahuna Lodge, where another refined dinner awaits.

Transfer to the airport this morning for your domestic flight south to Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital. Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and framed by the jagged peaks of the Remarkables, Queenstown blends alpine charm with world-class dining, wine and outdoor pursuits. On arrival, you’ll be transferred to the ROKI Collection Queenstown, an ultra-luxury retreat on the lakefront. Your Junior Suite offers breathtaking views across the lake and mountains, as well as thoughtful touches such as a fireplace, walk-in wardrobe and indulgent bathtub. Facilities include a Roman bath-inspired wellness centre with a heated indoor pool, sauna and treatment rooms, alongside exceptional dining options. After settling in, the evening is yours to explore Queenstown at leisure, whether strolling the compact town centre or simply relaxing in your suite.

Today’s adventure begins with a scenic helicopter flight from Queenstown across alpine peaks, valleys and lakes, culminating in Milford Sound. Descend into this majestic fjord, dominated by Mitre Peak and sheer cliffs rising dramatically from the water. Swap air for sea as you board a boat for a cruise along the sound, passing waterfalls such as Stirling and Fairy Falls, and keeping an eye out for dolphins, fur seals and, in spring, Fiordland crested penguins. A picnic lunch is included as you soak in the natural grandeur. Following the cruise, your helicopter awaits for the return journey, complete with an alpine landing for another breathtaking perspective. The experience lasts around four hours and is highly weather-dependent. Back in Queenstown, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure before another night at the ROKI Collection.

Embark on a private full-day wine tour through the Central Otago region, famed for its Pinot Noir. Travelling in comfort with your personal guide, pass through Kawarau Gorge to Bannockburn, where you’ll enjoy a tasting at Mt Difficulty winery, perched high above Lake Dunstan. Lunch is available at your own cost at one of the region’s acclaimed winery restaurants, offering seasonal menus with spectacular views. Continue to the Gibbston Valley, known as the “Valley of the Vines,” where more tastings showcase the region’s bold reds and elegant whites. The dramatic schist landscapes and winding river gorges provide a stunning backdrop throughout the day. Return to Queenstown in the late afternoon, with time to relax before your final evening in New Zealand, perhaps dining out in town or enjoying the luxury of your lodge.

Your journey through New Zealand concludes today. After breakfast, a private transfer will take you from your hotel to Queenstown Airport for your onward flight. Reflect on the diverse experiences of the past two weeks, from Waiheke’s vineyards to Taupō’s geothermal landscapes, Hawke’s Bay’s wineries, Christchurch’s heritage, and Queenstown’s alpine splendour. With memories of helicopter flights, fine dining, wildlife encounters and breathtaking scenery, this itinerary offers a stylish and unforgettable exploration of Aotearoa.