New Zealand
Nature comes alive
New Zealand
8 day itinerary
Verdant green landscapes, oceans with world-class surf breaks, laid-back locals and Māori culture come together in New Zealand and its islands. This is a country that loves the natural beauty than spans its shores, and takes care of it.
Auckland
'TĀMAKI MAKAURAU', THE CITY OF LOVERS
Arrive in Auckland to join your charter yacht where a traditional Maori Party greeting will send you on your way. Relax onboard in the ‘City of Sails’, dine at world class restaurants, marvel at the iconic Auckland Harbour Bridge, or browse designer shops and the city's many art galleries and museums. Cruise to the Hauraki Gulf, Auckland’s playground.
Waiheke Island
VINEYARDS AND RAINFORESTS
The 20-kilometre-long island of Waiheke is a paradise just a short cruise from the city. Wander the island’s vineyards and sample delicious local wines and food, visit the Waiheke Island Brewery to try their handcrafted beers, or get your adrenaline rush ziplining through the rainforest. Call in at quirky art galleries and craft shops. Throughout the island, enjoy stunning views of beautiful sandy beaches on one side and emerald green bays on the other.
Coromandel Peninsula
BACK TO NATURE
The Coromandel Peninsula is a sub-tropical paradise of canyons, waterfalls and panoramic cliffs. Hunt out abandoned gold mines or soak up the atmosphere at Lost Springs, New Zealand’s luxury thermal resort, whose natural waters are sourced from a geothermal underwater spring. Hike through forests, home to the mighty Kauri trees which grow 50m tall, or explore the volcanic coastline in a kayak, making sure you stop at Cathedral Cove, a photogenic natural tunnel that runs through the clliffs.
Great Barrier Island
NATURE AND STARGAZING
Off the grid and reliant on solar power of its energy, nature is king on Great Barrier Island. Discover the native wildlife in its protected forest hiking trails, swim, surf or kayak at spectacular beaches and bays, or enjoy a round of golf in a wonderful natural environment. For stargazing enthusiasts, the island is the perfect place for taking in stunning starry vistas: it is a designated as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary, one of only three worldwide.
Poor Knights Islands
UNDERWATER ADVENTURES
Jacques Cousteau put this marine reserve in his top ten dive sites in the world. Dive this vibrant underwater land, with caves and arches, tunnels, sheer cliffs and even a giant staircase tumbling down. Encounter stingrays, mosaic moray and Lord Howe coral fish, vibrant anemones, ecklonia kelp forests and gorgonian fans. Non-divers can take paddleboards to explore the world’s largest sea cave, Riko Riko, or visit Tutukaka, a bustling nautical town with great views and waterfront cafes.
Bay of Islands
PROTECTED MARINE PARK
One of New Zealand’s most famous maritime parks, these 144 islands are pristine and teeming with vibrant sea life. Spend a couple of days fishing, diving and kayaking, or wander the small villages dotted around the Bay. Visit the historical spot where the Waitangi Treaty was signed in 1840, for an insight into New Zealand's fascinating heritage and culture. Later, enjoy a traditional Maori meal and entertainment on a private island.
Whangaroa Harbour
LUXURY ON LAND
Spend a day at the Kauri Cliffs luxury resort in Whangaroa. Play a round of golf on the challenging top-ranking course enjoying spectacular views, or enjoy a Manuka Honey cocooning wrap and relaxing massage at the spa. Take to the skies for an aerial view of your trip by helicopter, or visit this stunning 6,000 acre coastal property on quad bikes or horseback. Go fishing for snapper or kawahai for the chef to prepare for a barbeque on the beach later.
Cape Reinga
DISEMBARKATION
Disembark and spend the final day of your holiday in Cape Reinga, the highest point in New Zealand. See two oceans collide as the mighty Pacific Ocean meets the Tasman Sea in a spectacular swirl of currents. This famous landmark sits at the tip of the Te Paki Recreation Reserve and is a highly significant area to Maori, as it marks the point from which Maori wairua (spirit) return to their traditional homeland. Fly from Kerikeri back to Auckland for onward travel.