New Zealand is a destination in itself, one of the most picturesque countries you will ever visit. It is a wonderland for adventure seekers with a plethora of breathtaking views and action-packed activities.
New Zealand is a country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, consisting of 2 main islands, both marked by volcanoes and glaciation.
Starting in the South Island and working your way up is a strategic way to structure a trip to New Zealand. Connect through Auckland and begin your journey in Queenstown, where you can stay in town at the lovely and private Eichardt’s Hotel. Another option, a short 8 minute drive from town on the shore of Lake Wakatipu, is Matakauri Lodge. Both hotels will cater to your every need and will provide you with the most exquisite food and wine. During your stay in Queenstown, take a beautiful helicopter ride through snowcapped peaks to Milford sound, where the Lord of the Rings was filmed. While taking in the unbelievable views of glaciers and waterfalls, a gourmet picnic of champagne and cheese is served.
As is the case in every part of New Zealand, you have many activities to choose from: bungee jumping, sky diving, rafting, jetboating, zip lining, caving, off road driving, biking, hiking, swimming, star gazing, and even skiing if the season is right. There is something for everyone in New Zealand. Afternoons can range from playing golf on the amazingly extreme and beautiful courses to simply have a relaxing spa treatment at Matakauri Lodge.
The wine country also provides an amazing experience with a multitude of vineyard to go wine tasting. If you are looking for a little more than just a tasting, try the delicious 5 course lunch with wine pairings at Amisfielt.
From Queenstown, fly to Christchurch and then take a helicopter to Annandale, a unique and remote site; rural New Zealand at its best! Annandale consists of four different gorgeous accommodations: The Homestead, Scrubby Bay, Seascape, or Shepard’s Cottage. Once again, you can choose to do any activity your heart desires. Each accommodation is its own property, spread out from each other to foster a relaxing, private experience. The views are just as spectacular as the food. You can even have a private chef come in the evening and prepare any meal to your liking.
After a few nights, fly from Christchurch to Napier in the North Island and drive to Cape Kidnappers, a stunning and secluded location. A highlight here is the bike ride or hike through the extensive scenic property. Here you will find of the more challenging golf courses in New Zealand with one of the most incredible views. Finish the day off with a spa treatment before another incredible dinner.
Take a helicopter ride from Cap Kidnappers to Huka Lodge to indulge yourself in even more activites, food, and wine!
The next stop on the journey is Kauri Cliffs for another dose of stunning views. Not as challenging as the one in Cape Kidnappers, the golf course here is for more recreational purposes. Once again, the food and wine could not be beat.
The last stop is just a short drive and ferry ride away to the Bay of Islands to Eagles Nest, a luxury hotel destination. Enjoy another helicopter here and find yourself landing in a hole in the middle of a rock. Afterwards, come back to your villa for a quiet afternoon of sunbathing by your private pool, or a short walk to the beach. For dinner, a private chef will come to prepare a beautiful dinner paired with the finest wine.
Although New Zealand seems far away, there are an incredible amount of routes to get there. Y can take Air New Zealand to Auckland via San Francisco or Los Angeles, which provides you with flat beds in business class and lovely service. American Airlines has recently started flying a Dreamliner to Auckland from Los Angeles and United Airlines does the same from San Francisco. There are many ways to fly out there and New Zealand is an unforgettable destination you definitely do not want to miss.