New Zealand’s Natural Wonders – President’s Pick

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President’s Picks

COUNTRIES VISITED

New Zealand

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Price starts at $4,400 Per Person, Per Day Land per person, per day, double occupancy.

TOUR LENGTH

13

Tour Highlights/Full Description

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  • Take a journey on a remote coastal ranch with a 4WD Farm Safari surrounded by the Rimutaka Mountains and Pacific Ocean.
  • Appreciate the vast and intriguing coastline of the Marlborough Sounds on a private helicopter ride to the Bay of Many Coves.
  • Embark on a thrilling helicopter ride through the mountains for a Tasman Glacier Heli-Hike.
  • Witness the dark, clear skies and unique celestial landscapes which make this New Zealand stargazing experience magical.
  • Sail from Split Apple beach and enjoy a full day of sailing through New Zealand’s stunning Abel Tasman National Park.

Day 1: Arrival In Auckland, New Zealand / Wellington / Wharekauhau
Welcome to New Zealand! On arrival at Auckland International Airport, you will be met at the gate of the plane and assisted with customs and immigration formalities, and then you will be assisted on your next flight to Wellington.
On arrival at Wellington Airport, you will be transferred to the Wellington Heli Depot You will be met by your private pilot and helicopter for your scenic transfer to Wharekauhau. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure.

Wharekauhau sits grandeur, gracious and intimate on the clifftops with sparkling Pacific Ocean views, and intimate spaces. Warm light streams in from the gardens to illuminate the kitchen, a large country kitchen table offers guests the chance to discuss our chefs’ secrets.
Wharekauhau Country Estate Palliser – Cottage Suite (D)

 

 

Day 2: Wharekauhau
This morning enjoy a 4WD farm safari to introduce you to the workings of this remote coastal ranch. Bordered by the Rimutaka Ranges and Pacific Ocean, this classic New Zealand Romney sheep station tour features highlights from the activities that have created New Zealand’s legendary farming heritage, and may include sheep shearing demonstrations, sheep dogs in action and daily farm events.
With the remainder of the afternoon is at leisure at Wharekauhau Country Estate we recommend the following optional local experiences (some of these activities may require a supplement):
– Go walking, hiking, mountain biking or quad biking on the many tracks on the estate.
– Visit the picturesque lighthouse at Cape Palliser and see seals at the colony.
– Try your hand at archery, claybird shooting or surfcasting (fishing from the beach) .
– Relax with a spa treatment at the Hauora Spa.
– Take a day excursion to the high end, boutique vineyards of Martinborough, cycling between them if you choose.
– Enjoy the swimming pool, gymnasium, tennis or croquet lawn at Wharekauhau, or head out for a ride on a complimentary mountain bike.
– Take a Wairarapa Artisans Tour into the villages around the South Wairarapa to visit some of the small artisans that take great pride in crafting small products of the highest quality.
– Enjoy Star Gazing from your cottage terrace with the insight of a passionate local astronomer – Head to a special location on the estate for a private picnic made on site by the chef.
Wharekauhau Country Estate Palliser – Cottage Suite (B,D)

 

 

Day 3: Wharekauhau
Today visit several of the boutique wineries situated near Wharekauhau – there are no less than 29 to choose from!
Discover the pleasures of the local wineries, tasting some of the world’s best Pinot Noir. International wine experts’ rate Martinborough as one of the finest wine growing regions in New Zealand and its Pinot Noir equal to anything that Burgundy has on offer.
Your guide will accompany you to some of the many vineyards and introduce you to the region’s best wines and vineyards.
Enjoy lunch in either a local vineyard or village cafe where you will have the opportunity to visit the boutique stores.
You will be returned to your accommodation later this afternoon.
Wharekauhau Country Estate Palliser – Cottage Suite (B,D)

 

 

Day 4: Wharekauhau / Bay Of Many Coves
Enjoy a leisurely morning.
In the late morning, you will be met by your private pilot and helicopter for your scenic transfer to Bay of Many Coves.
Bay of Many Coves is a luxury five-star resort, set in the heart of Queen Charlotte Sound, Marlborough. Nestled between stunning native bush and our secluded bay, you will enjoy an unforgettable experience: Whether you are seeking world-class cuisine, breath-taking scenery, adventure, or simply a sense of renewal, you will find it here, whatever the season.
Bay Of Many Coves Resort Marlborough Sounds – Apartment (B,D)

 

 

Day 5: Bay Of Many Coves
While enjoying a day at leisure at Bay of Many Coves Resort we recommend the following optional local experiences (some may require an additional supplement):
– Explore nearby sheltered bays and shimmering waters on complimentary kayaks or stand-up paddleboards.
– Put your walking shoes on and take to a section of the beautifully scenic Queen Charlotte Track which winds its way through rainforest, along deserted beaches, and atop ridgelines with stunning coastal views. The track can also be explored on mountain bike (please note the track is best accessed by water taxi).
– Take a track straight from the resort through 52 hectares of private bush alive with native birds.
– Learn some of New Zealand’s early history at historic Ship Cove, one of Captain James Cook’s favorite anchorages.
– Pack a picnic hamper and get dropped off at your very own remote beach with only the odd weka (swamp hen) to disturb you.
– Bird watchers won’t want to miss Motuara Island, a predator free sanctuary home to some of New Zealand’s rarest birds including little blue penguins, rowi kiwis, and the harmonic bellbird.
– Have the staff escort you to a secret spot in the surrounding bush where you can find dozens of twinkling glow worms.
– Indulge in a Maori inspired spa experience at on-site Miritu Spa.
– Visit Double Cove, a marine sanctuary with incredibly tame fish that will eat from your hand.
Bay Of Many Coves Resort Marlborough Sounds – Apartment (B,D)

 

 

Day 6: Bay Of Many Coves
You will be met at your accommodation by your private boat for your full day Marlborough Sounds sailing excursion.
With about 2,500 square miles of coastline to explore, the Marlborough Sounds sits on the South Island’s northeastern most point and comprises of one-tenth of the total length of New Zealand’s coast. The many coves and inlets of the outer Queen Charlotte Sound are surrounded by magnificent stands of virgin native bush, plunging down to crystal clear water.
Your trip will take you to places so remote that the only sounds you will hear are birdsong and the occasional splash from a diving gannet or dolphin.
You will sail on board of the Voila, a Beneteau Oceanis, 54 foot yacht, which was purchased new in 2012 from France. When there is wind, it is perfect to sail, but she also has a motor for those occasional windless days. She has a very roomy saloon and galley, where you can relax and unwind out of the weather. Start the day with a quick meet, greet and safety briefing, before you board the boat and we motor out to find some wind. This is usually a good time to have and tea/coffee and to chat a little about the Sounds and where you may go for the day. Then hoist the sails and really go where the wind takes you, finding a sheltered bay where you either pick up a mooring or drop the anchor. Lunch is then served.
You will then have the option to go ashore for a walk or hop in the tender and explore the shore line. A paddle board is available and a dive and swim off the boat is always refreshing. You may choose to simply lie in the sun and read a book.
The afternoon is yours to do whatever you want and the return time back to the marina is flexible.
On conclusion you will be returned to your accommodation.
Bay Of Many Coves Resort Marlborough Sounds – Apartment (B,L,D)

 

 

Day 7: Bay Of Many Coves / Picton / Blenhein / Queenstown / Lindis
Today you will be met at the Bay of Coves by your private water tax for a transfer to Picton.
On arrival at Picton, you will be met by your private driver and vehicle and transferred to Blenheim Airport for your flight to Queenstown.

Upon arrival you will be met at your accommodation by your private driver and vehicle for your scenic transfer to Ahuriri Valley via the Mackenzie Country and the Lindis Pass.
The Lindis Lodge Ahurir – Master Suite (B,D)

 

 

Day 8: Lindis
This morning you will be met at The Lindis by your private helicopter and pilot for a Tasman Glacier heli-hike and an Alpine Picnic Lunch. As the rolling hills of the great high-country farms give way to glacier-fed lakes and icy torrents, the flight path travels over the deep glaciated valleys of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.

Known to Māori as Aoraki (the cloud piercer), New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Mount Cook, looms over a vast icy wilderness. Thrill the close-ups of the Tasman Glacier — New Zealand’s longest glacier — a dynamic, ancient river of fascinating blue ice formations, giant seracs and jagged crevasses, and the famed Hochstetter Icefall.

Land in a high on the glacier to experience the thrill of hiking throughout this ancient river of ice, exploring the crevasses and caves or just stand in awe. Surprise your someone special with a romantic picnic date in the mountains. A moment in Paradise. Just you, the mountains, the views and an intimate setting for two. Breath-taking from any angle, our private picnic spot sits high in the Southern Alps. Your pilot will design your return scenic flight to the Lindis to create the perfect experience tailored to match your heart’s desire.

Tonight your private guide will meet you at the lodge and take you to a private spot in the valley to begin your night of star gazing. You will identify some of the closer and brighter stars, star clusters, Greek and Maori constellation as well as ancient techniques used for celestial navigation. Following this you’ll be able to look through the telescope where you’ll take a closer look at some of the interesting deep sky objects and planets.
The Lindis Lodge Ahurir – Master Suite (B,L,D)

 

 

Day 9: LINDIS
Today enjoy a privately guided hike. Leaving from the stables, climb from 2,400 feet altitude to 3,300 feet. The walk ends at the boundary of Ben Avon Station with views into Longslip Station and the head of the Avon Burn (approximately a 2 hour duration).

Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

With the rest of the day at leisure at The Lindis Lodge, we recommend the following optional local experiences (subject to availability – prior reservation recommended): – some of these activities require and additional supplement:
– Take advantage of one of the top ten fly fishing locations in the world, just a short stroll from the lodge
– Explore the rugged countryside on horseback or mountain bike
– Hike over 49,000 hectares through the surrounding wetlands, forests, tussock, and alpine countryside; guides are available
– Get off-road, exploring the property by 4WD buggy.
The Lindis Lodge Ahurir – Master Suite (B,L,D)

 

 

Day 10: THE LINDIS / QUEENSTOWN / NELSON
You will be met at your accommodation by your private driver and vehicle for your scenic transfer to Queenstown via the Mackenzie Country and the Lindis Pass (approximately a 2 hour 30 minute journey).
Upon arrival take the flight from Queenstown to Nelson.

On arrival at Nelson Airport, you will be met by your private driver and vehicle and transferred to your accommodation to enjoy an afternoon at leisure. (approximately a 1 hour journey).

The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure.
Your stay includes dinner and breakfast.
The retreat, located near Nelson is known for its gourmet Asian-Mediterranean fusion cuisine where every ingredient has been selected for its positive contribution to health and wellness. Indulge in the spectacular setting, original art and antiques, and unparalleled service. With the Abel Tasman National Park at your doorstep, pristine nature presents a kaleidoscope of constantly changing colors and patterns.
Split Apple Retreat Abel Tasman National Park – Suite (B,D)

 

 

Day 11: Nelson
This morning walk down to the Split Apple Beach to meet your private sailing charter

Start your day sailing from the Split Apple beach and enjoy a full day of sailing through New Zealand’s stunning Abel Tasman National Park. Either chill out and relax, get involved in the sailing or learn as you go – you decide.
Experience some great sailing, enjoy some stunning beaches and islands, with a full hour to enjoy your lunch and relax on Anchorage Beach. A great opportunity to go swimming or take a short walk and explore the caves.

Throughout this full-day, you will have an opportunity to visit the Fur Seal Colony, Split Apple Rock, and a range of beautiful destinations before returning to Kaiteriteri Beach. This incredible experience will have you seeing all the Abel Tasman National Park highlights in one day.
Split Apple Retreat Abel Tasman National Park – Suite (B,D)

 

 

Day 12: NELSON
Today you will be met at your accommodation by your guide to enjoy a leisurely private guided hike around the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park.

You will board a private water taxi at Kaiteriteri Beach and cruise along the coastline of Abel Tasman National Park disembarking at Medlands Beach, stopping to view Split Apple Rock along the way.

Walk through an ever changing forest of silver fern, strangely twisted manuka or kanuka, beech trees, large podocarp trees alongside Falls River, and over a swing bridge on to Torrent Bay. Stop to enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch at Torrent Bay before exploring the estuary area, visit Cleopatra’s pool or Pitt Head before meeting the water taxi at Anchorage for your return journey. The water taxi will pause at Adele Island wildlife sanctuary. Watch the antics of seals, spot Little Blue Penguins and listen for one of our rarest birds, the South Island Saddleback. This excursion focuses on walking through the park so you can spend more time exploring the many features on offer and discovering that there is much more here than anticipated. This added value, fully guided journey interprets the less obvious features such as the early settler activity, as well as Maori history and the endless stories that abound here, especially from the rich variety of vegetation, birds and aquatic life.
Split Apple Retreat Abel Tasman National Park – Suite (B,D)

 

 

Day 13: NELSON / DEPART
This morning at a pre-arranged time, you will be met by your private driver and vehicle for the transfer to Nelson Airport prior to your onward flight.
(B)

 

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