New Zealand

Proposed Itinerary especially prepared for

Rebecca Recommends

Rooms with Views – Honeymoon Inspired

Welcome to New Zealand

Set in the azure seas of the South Pacific Ocean, New Zealand is

renowned for its clean green environment and remarkable scenic beauty

from rugged mountains and ancient glaciers to beaches, bays and bush.

Discerning travellers from all over the world rate New Zealand a

destination not to be missed.

New Zealand is more than magnificent landscapes, it is about a people

and a society that has a vibrant and rich culture; a melding of a proud

Maori heritage and modern European and Polynesian influences. New

Zealanders themselves – friendly and open are proud of their country

and its achievements. They have an egalitarian approach to life that

visitors find refreshingly calming and welcoming.

New Zealand offers outstanding experiences – including wilderness fly

fishing and deep-sea game fishing, hiking and helicopter adventures,

diving, hiking, hot air ballooning, skiing and golfing tours, gourmet

cuisine, wine trails, house and garden tours as well as sports, cultural

and artistic activities. New Zealand is also known for its fine foods and

wines. Seafood and top quality agricultural produce form the basis of

the exciting and innovative Pacific Rim cuisine.

Day 01, March 2017 – March 2018 Upon arrival at Auckland International Airport you will be met by a representative of Southern Crossings who will hand over your New Zealand documentation and transfer you to Auckland Downtown Ferry Terminal for your onward ferry sailing (approximately 40 minutes journey). Depart Auckland aboard the Waiheke Island Passenger Ferry Thirty-five minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland, the idyllic island of Waiheke provides a welcome haven with its magnificent beaches and warm, inviting island lifestyle. Rich in natural beauty, Waiheke’s coastline unfolds to reveal stunning white and golden sand beaches, rocky foreshores and estuaries rich in native birdlife. Stands of lush sub-tropical forest are bounded by farmland and vineyards. Arrive Waiheke Island On arrival at Waiheke Island you will be met by a representative of The Boatshed for a transfer to your accommodation (approximately 10 minutes journey). ACCOMMODATION FOR THREE NIGHTS IN A DOUBLE BOATSHED ROOM INCLUDING BREAKFAST AT: THE BOATSHED WAIHEKE ISLAND

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island – magical island paradise. Located just thirty-five minutes

by ferry from downtown Auckland, Waiheke is an enchanting blend of

beautiful beaches, lush native bush, farms, arts and craft stores and

vineyards creating an inviting and warm island lifestyle.

Day, 02 March 2018 This morning you will be met at your accommodation by your private car and driver for a full day private guided sightseeing tour of the islands vineyards. Your private tour allows you to craft your own personal itinerary, choosing from a delightful selection of fascinating people, places and tastes which combine to make Waiheke Island so unique. Since the late 1970's Waiheke's benign Mediterranean climate has seen the growth of a flourishing wine industry. A "small is beautiful" philosophy yields low quantities of extremely high quality fruit, which is made into international award-winning wines. The big Bordeaux-style reds of Stony Ridge the Goldie Estate are now appreciated by wine lovers all over the world, and more than 30 vineyards have followed in the footsteps of the original three. You can visit these and several others including Kennedy Point Vineyard, Te Whau Vineyard and Mudbrick Vineyard. The tour typically includes a two-hour lunch stop at a village or beachside café, or, for a memorable gourmet experience, at one of our top vineyard restaurants. Lunch is at your own expense, and your guide will be happy to make suggestions and reservations for you. This afternoon you will be returned to your accommodation.

Day, 03 March 2018 While at leisure on Waiheke Island we recommend the following unique local experiences: Visit any of the great vineyards on the island including Cable Bay, Man O’ War, Casita Miro, Mudbrick, Obsidian or Stoneyridge. Go swimming or just get some sun on the islands beautiful beaches. Explore the old World War II defences at Stony Batter. Walk the Arts and Crafts Trail either guided or unguided. Visit Wild on Waiheke where you can try archery, claybird shooting, or simply relax and sample some of the islands finest wine, beer and food. Eco zip-lining Walk through the bush and wetlands to find native birds. Hike, mountain bike or ride on horseback over the many tracks available on the island.

Day, 04 March 2018 This morning a representative of The Boatshed will transfer you to Matiatia Wharf prior to your onward ferry sailing (approximately 10 minutes journey). Depart Waiheke Island aboard the Passenger Ferry to Auckland (approximately 35 minutes journey). Upon arrival at Auckland you will be met by your private vehicle and driver who will transfer you and assist with the collection of your rental vehicle (approximately 10 minutes journey). Collect your mid-size automatic rental vehicle including daily insurance, unlimited kilometres, accident excess reduction and GPS. Drive south to Waitomo (approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes drive). Enjoy a visit to the famed Waitomo Glow-Worm Caves to marvel over the ancient underground labyrinth of limestone caves and grottos. Your guided tour will take you through over 250 metres of stunning underground scenery including a boat trip into the Glow-Worm grotto (approximately 1 hours duration). Continue to your accommodation at Taupo (approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes drive). ACCOMMODATION FOR TWO NIGHTS IN A DOUBLE LAKE VIEW ROOM INCLUDING PRE-DINNER DRINKS AND BREAKFAST AT: ACACIA CLIFFS LODGE TAUPO

Taupo

Taupo – ‘Trout fishing capital of New Zealand’. Set on the shores of

New Zealand’s largest lake with awe-inspiring panoramic views of the

diverse volcanic landscape from the pristine lake to the surrounding

mountain peaks of Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe.

Day, 05 March 2018 This morning enjoy a private cruise on the stunning Lake Taupo. Sit back and relax in luxury bean bags as you sail right up to the Maori rock carvings. They’re possibly the largest of their type in the world, so don’t miss out on visiting them when you’re in the region. Glide across stunning Lake Taupo as you soak up the warming sun or go for a swim (approximately 2 hours 30 minutes duration). Upon arrival at Taupo boat harbour continue back to your accommodation. This afternoon is at leisure in Taupo, and we recommend the following unique local experiences: Play golf at either of the two world class courses nearby, Kinloch and Wairakei. Go fly fishing on the surrounding rivers, or trolling on Lake Taupo. Get the adrenaline pumping on the Hukafalls Jet and view the staggering amount of water flowing over these falls every second. Take a helicopter to the ever simmering White Island, an almost constantly active volcano in the Bay of Plenty. Take a day to explore the geothermal wonders in the region including Craters of the Moon, Waiotapu, and the many different locations in Rotorua. For the more adventurous, try bungy jumping, quad biking, sky diving, gliding, or even racing around a track in a real Formula Challenge race car. Take to the bush on one of the many walks available, guided or unguided.

Day, 06 March 2018 This morning drive to Rotorua Airport and return your rental vehicle prior to your onward flight (approximately 1 hours drive). Fly Rotorua to Blenheim (cost not included) On arrival at Blenheim Airport collect your Mid-size automatic rental vehicle including daily insurance, unlimited kilometres, accident excess reduction and GPS and drive south via the scenic East Coast to your accommodation at Kaikoura (approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes drive). ACCOMMODATION FOR TWO NIGHTS IN A DOUBLE ONE BEDROOM TREE HOUSE INCLUDING DINNER AND BREAKFAST AT: HAPUKU LODGE KAIKOURA

Kaikoura

Kaikoura - Kai ~ food, Koura ~ crayfish. The seaside settlement of

Kaikoura situated on a peninsula on the rugged east coast of New

Zealand’s South Island is overlooked by majestic often snowcapped

mountains, a dramatic backdrop for the picturesque village. Renowned

for its eco tourism and recognised as nature’s playground offering

something for everyone.

Day, 07 March 2018 This morning enjoy a dolphin swim cruise, swimming with the dusky dolphins in their natural environment. The dusky dolphins inhabit the coastal waters off Kaikoura all year round, where wild dolphins can be encountered, weather permitting. Renowned for their acrobatic leaps and interactive behaviour you will have a unique experience (approximately 4 hours duration).

While at leisure in the Kaikoura we recommend the following unique local experiences: Kaikoura is famous for its marine life, particularly seals, dolphins and whales. Whale watching is a must do and can be done year round on a cruise or from there air in a helicopter or light plane. Spend a few hours fishing out on the ocean and have your chef cook up your spoils for dinner. Be sure to check out ‘street food’ Kaikoura style, divine crayfish (lobster) from ‘Seafood BBQ’, a caravan-come-restaurant serving up crayfish and fries right on the beach. Walkers will love the Peninsula Walkway for its beautiful coastal views. A truly special experience can be had just north of Kaikoura at the Ohau Stream Walk. During the day when their mothers are out fishing, seal pups make their way up the freshwater stream to a small pool at the base of a waterfall, and simply play about in the water all day. See the many different species of seabirds that call Kaikoura home, including albatross, gannets, shags and penguins. Take a half day Maori cultural tour to learn how a local Maori family interact with the marine life, flora and fauna of the region. Visit Fyffe House, the last remaining building of an old whaling station, and actually partly built with whale bones.

Day, 08 March 2018 Today drive further south via Christchurch to your accommodation at Pigeon Bay, near Banks Peninsula (approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes drive). ACCOMMODATION FOR TWO NIGHTS IN THE SEASCAPE VILLA INCLUDING ‘WE CATER YOU COOK DINNER AND BREAKFAST’ MEAL PROVISIONS AT: ANNANDALE PIGEON BAY NEAR BANKS PENINSULA

Banks Peninsula

The unique landscape of Banks Peninsula consists of exposed contours

and complex coastline - breathtakingly dramatic yet largely undiscovered.

The peninsula is named after Sir Joseph Banks, the renowned botanist

on board the Endeavour when Captain Cook made his first

circumnavigation of New Zealand in 1770, and a large number of New

Zealand’s unique bird and plant species can be seen at Annandale and

in the surrounding area.

Day, 09 March 2018 Enjoy a guided tour of the Annandale Farm. Taking you over rugged tracks whilst enjoying views on some of the higher, more scenic locations on the farm, your tour will incorporate the historic woolshed, seeing livestock up close and experiencing some of the practical sides of a working farm. (Tour duration is approximately 2 - 2 ½ hours). Just as the tide ebbs and flows, the seasons and colours of the 4,000-acre Annandale farm change throughout year, from luscious greens in spring to tussocky golds by autumn, all while enjoying the ultimate hideaway retreat. Optional on site activities available include: Watching sheep dogs at work Enjoy the atmosphere of the shearing shed, and if you’re lucky see the skilled shearers in action Hiking and biking Kayaking or powerboating Alternatively, in the Akaroa township we suggest the following optional activities: Harbour Nature Cruises* Dolphin Experience – swim with the dolphins* Horse riding* Visit Flea Bay where you will find the largest Little Penguin colony on mainland New Zealand Heritage attractions – the Akaroa Museum, Okains Bay Maori and Colonial Museum and historic buildings in the township

Day, 10 March 2018 This morning drive to Christchurch Airport and return your rental vehicle prior to your onward flight (approximately 2 hours drive). Fly Christchurch to Queenstown (cost not included) On arrival at Queenstown Airport you will be met by a representative of Azur for your transfer to your accommodation (approximately 20 minutes journey). ACCOMMODATION FOR THREE NIGHTS IN A DOUBLE VILLA INCLUDING PRE-DINNER DRINKS AND BREAKFAST AT: AZUR LODGE QUEENSTOWN

Queenstown

Queenstown - ‘Adventure Capital of the World’. Set on the shores of

Lake Wakatipu, amidst the towering peaks of the Southern Alps, the

scenery provides a perfect backdrop for endless activities and an idyllic

haven in which to relax.

Day, 11 March 2018 This morning you will be met at your accommodation by helicopter for a flight to Milford Sound. Fly through the grandeur of the Alps over rainforests, frozen lakes and majestic Milford to touchdown on an age old glacier. The views of the glaciers are overwhelming, with their many crevasses and blue and green ice falls. You will then return to Queenstown with views of New Zealand’s southern lakes en route (approximately 90 minutes duration).

Milford Sound

Majestic Milford Sound, one of New Zealand’s most spectacular areas

and a natural wonder of world fame, whatever the fiord’s mood, teeming

with rain or with sun glistening on deep water, it will inspire you. In the

foreground of the fiord, stands Mitre Peak, a remarkable presence

dominating the skyline.

Day, 12 March 2018 While at leisure in the Queenstown we recommend the following unique local experiences: Ply the waters of Lake Wakatipu aboard the 100 year old TSS Earnslaw. Ride the Skyline Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak for the best views over the town and Lake Wakatipu and for the more adventurous zip line or luge ride back down. Hike the variety of landscapes available nearby the town including lakeside, rainforest, high country, alpine and farmlands. Visit the picturesque historic gold mining town of Arrowtown and browse the boutiques housed in heritage buildings along the main street. Play on Queenstown’s world class golf courses such as Jacks Point, The Hills or Millbrook. Brave the iconic Kiwi adrenaline activity, bungy jumping, at the 134 metre Nevis River, the 43 metre Kawarau Bridge or the 47 metre Ledge. Speed down a narrow gorge mere centimetres from the rock walls on the world famous Shotover Jet. Visit any of the dozens of surreal film sites used in the Lord of the Rings, the Hobbit, and other movies. Sample some delicious drops at the regions leading cellar doors and restaurants such as Amisfield, Chard Farm, Peregrine and Gibbston Vineyards. Visit a remote high country station for a farm tour to watch the sheep dogs at work, see the adorable lambs, observe wool shearing or harvest your own fruit and vegetables from the orchards and fields. Of course, being the ‘Adventure Capital of the World’, there are plenty of adrenaline activities on offer including skydiving, canyoning, white water rafting, quad biking, and so much more.

Day, 13 March 2018 This morning you will be met at your accommodation by your private vehicle and driver and transferred to Queenstown Airport prior to your onward flight (approximately 30 minutes journey). Fly Queenstown to Auckland (cost not included) Depart Auckland

ARRANGEMENTS CONCLUDE

The Boatshed Waiheke Island, Auckland

The Boatshed is situated on Waiheke Island’s northern sun drenched face, 35 minutes ferry

ride from downtown Auckland. The Boatshed romantic hotel offers 5 guest suites and 2

bungalows, a collection of stylish baches – luxury beach cottages near the sea. An eclectic

mix of different spaces and room types, created with the same design philosophy, staying true

to the idea of the Kiwi Bach. Stroll down to the beach, grab an ice-cream and dip your toes

in the water.

The three-storey Lighthouse Suite stands pride of place, offering panoramic view from its

own private top floor lounge, with full north and west opening sides.

Acacia Cliffs Taupo

Acacia Cliffs Lodge is a unique lodge offering boutique

accommodation in stunning Lake Taupo. Architecturally-

designed to maximize the spectacular lake and mountain

views, the four bedroom property perches high on a ridge

offering an uninterrupted panorama of Lake Taupo, Mount

Tauhara and the Kaimanawa Ranges.

Large slider and bi-folds open out onto the many sun-

drenched decks and outdoor garden areas where you can

unwind, listen to music and plan the next day’s activities in

Taupo, or rest on a lounger with a good book and admire the

views.

Hapuku Lodge Kaikoura

With contemporary design which is complement to the breathtaking scenery, Hapuku Lodge

perfectly positions guests to take advantage of Kaikoura’s activities.

The Lodge sits between the mountains and the ocean, on a deer stud and olive farm, 7 miles

north of Kaikoura.

Featuring custom designed, handmade furniture, Hapuku Lodge offers accommodation

including well-appointed guest rooms in the main lodge building, a separate apartment, and

five luxury Tree Houses nested 30 feet in the treetops.

Set in a secluded bay, overlooking the sparkling

waters of the Pacific Ocean, this chic rural retreat,

less than two hours from central Christchurch,

makes a perfect romantic getaway.

From within, it appears you are floating on the

open sea, in thrall to its ever-changing moods, yet

safely embraced by luxury and modern comforts.

Outside, dolphins and seals often frolick in the

glittering water, with only you and the tussock

grass to witness them.

Guests can see all kinds of wildlife, including

dolphins and some of New Zealand's unique

native birds, experience a 4WD farm tour,

mountain biking, hiking, or perhaps even help with

some sheep and cattle mustering.

Seascape, Annandale

Banks Peninsula

Azur Sunshine Bay, Queenstown

Azur Lodge is nestled high above Lake Wakatipu, boasting

uninterrupted views of Queenstown, The Remarkables,

Cecil Peak, and spectacular Lake Wakatipu.

Each of the 9 villas incorporates its own private deck, lounge

and fireplace, 32” LCD screen TV, DVD/CD and

deluxe surround sound Denon stereo system. Each

bathroom features a spectacular spa bath with an

uninterrupted view of the lake and mountains.

Azur is 25 minutes from Queenstown Airport.