head north for beaches, bays and boats
For world-class beaches, bays and boutique hotels, the northern tip of New Zealand’s North Island is where it’s at. Locals call Auckland the City of Sails because of their love affair with the sea, and we can highly recommend you join in. Jump on an America’s Cup yacht and race with the pros before dinner on the harbour to the sounds of masts clinking in the breeze. The heart of the Maori state of Tamaki Makarau, here you can visit the beach where the first Polynesian canoe landed on discovery of the island. Chat to Maori carvers with full facial tattoos and learn about their many traditions, customs and values still preserved today.
north island beaches
Fancy some sun? The Bay of Islands is the ultimate spot for some seriously scenic chill-out time, interrupted only by jaw-dropping helicopter trips to around the northern cape, Cape Reinga, as well as Ninety Mile Beach and Doutbless Bay. Whatever you do, don’t forget your camera. Not until you’re lying on your private beach with thick rainforest-covered hills behind you and dolphin-filled seas in front, waiting for your al fresco BBQ, are you really experiencing New Zealand.
wonderful winelands
New Zealand is globally reputed for its delicious wines, and in our opinion there is no better wine country to visit than Hawkes’ Bay. Home to over 70 vineyards, from the oldest in the country to the most cutting-edge, exploring the area with a connoisseur is the ultimate wine-lovers dream. Why here in particular, you may ask? Well, the warm maritime climate and unique mountainous landscape create perfect conditions for world-class chardonnay and top-quality Merlots. Just the way we like it.
stunning winelands
Stay at Cape Kidnappers on a sheep and cattle farm which stretches right up to cliffs which drop dramatically into the ocean below.
And Hawkes’ bay isn’t just about wine (believe it or not). Packed full of adventure, from adrenalin-pumping quad biking to legendary golf courses, mountain trekking, climbing and helicopter journeys, it’s a stop certainly worth fitting into any kiwi itinerary.
into the wild in tarahua
For a totally refreshing wilderness experience, venture to the Taharua region (South West of Auckland) for some luxury camping, kiwi-style. Poronui safari camp is miles from anywhere, but gives you all the comfort you need with crisp cottons sheets and queensized beds, just a timber wall away from the glistening river. Ride horses through the mountains, and fish for rainbow trout in the Tarahua creek, before tucking into starlit gourmet dinner around the bonfire.
mud pools in tarahua
Hop over to Lake Taupo (Australasia’s largest freshwater lake, no less) to breathe in the freshest mountain air, and see stunning lakeside landscapes with your own eyes. Hike, or heli, over steaming volcanoes and hot pools, bubbling mud (jump in, it’s great for your skin) and glacial valleys, and head underground to see glow worms radiating by eerie subterranean waterfalls. In this geothermal region the landscape is literally breathing with geysers, and decorated with Maori rock carvings. Stay at Acacia Cliffs for contemporary style and panoramic views of the lake, set in sculptured gardens: the ideal bolthole for the luxury road trip of a lifetime.
south island adventure
Queenstown may be known as the adventure capital of the world (and yes, we do love a hair-raising hang gliding trip every now and then), but there is so much more to see than white water gushing over the side of your boat.
lake wanaka
For starters, Branches High Country Station is a little spot of wilderness on a ranch just out of the city, perfect for mountain-biking, fishing in a mirror-still lake or even gold panning.
On the other side of Queenstown, the Wanaka mountains may look familiar. That’s because they are the iconic peaks from the film Lord of the Rings, so why not head up by foot or helicopter for some jaw-dropping photos (and epic skiing in winter). Release private retreat here is just one example of pristine, cutting-edge design where heli skiing, or biking, is best.
heli biking
Freewheeling 6,000 feet back down to earth on a bike made for this dramatic terrain, with no up-hill cycling first is simply incredible. Talk about getting the wind in your hair.
Back in the city, the least of your problems will be trying to find somewhere with quality food and wine.
Looking for traditional Maori cooking, or ‘hangi’? Look no further, Queenstown is a culinary hub of restaurants serving fusion inspired meats and fresh fruit and vegetables cooked in every way from ancient to modern. And while you’re there, be sure to grab the opportunity to watch an All Blacks’ rugby match on their home turf.
picturesque queenstown
The rumbling from the players feet during the Haka, and the cheering from the dedicated crowds watching are literally spine-tingling.
colonial christchurch and nelson, the city of sunshine
Ever been to a town nestled in the heart of an extinct volcano? Well, now’s your chance. The French colonial town of Akaroa is a charming fishing village on a jut of land east of Christchurch, which was once a live volcano. Regularly visited by dolphins and utterly charming, with French street names and traditional-lux boutique hotel Maison de la Mer, it’s an ideal South Island spot for total tranquillity.
While down south, another must-see is Nelson. Drive up to the shore of Tasman Bay at the Northern end of the South Island. Renowned for its quirky lifestyle, alternative music and its artistic culture we’ll arrange a private guide to show you what’s hot, from art and music festivals to restaurants and bars. Time your trip right and you may get to experience the National Arts Festival and the Adam Chamber Music Festival for a dose of kiwi culture. Stay in the cottage at the award-winning Edenhouse, and to really indulge in the local produce, visit the orchards, olive groves, lakes, and vineyards which surround this aptly named ‘city of sunshine’.
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