Take in New Zealand’s breathtaking landscape from above as you jet across the country, stopping to indulge in unique food culture by experiencing delicious cuisine, sampling amazing wine, and discovering local traditions.
The “City of Sails” is certainly the most cosmopolitan of New Zealand’s cities and arguably one of the most vibrant cities in the world. The M?ori spirit that the country is known for shines throughout this diverse city, which is a melting pot of European, Pacific, and Asian influences.
Sprawled across an isthmus, the city envelops more than 40 extinct volcanoes, several of which stand in green pastoral parks, all developed to protect the stunning landscape. Adventure abounds here with countless activities related to natural monuments. Hike up Mount Eden for panoramic views of the city, stroll through the plant exhibits in the Wintergardens, or bike through the Auckland domain. Indulge in the city’s innovative culinary scene in Ponsonby or near the downtown waterfront.
With stunning views, rich culture, and gourmet dining as just a few of its assets, Auckland is an ideal place to begin your New Zealand adventure.
Join a private tour to learn what it takes to become, and stay, a professional rugby player at the All Blacks Experience. Hear the players’ stories and feel the passion behind the famous All Blacks “haka” before testing your rugby skills in a hands-on interactive zone.
Depart by ferry for Waiheke Island, a short 35-minute ride from downtown Auckland. Waiheke Island is 57 square miles of beautiful sandy beaches, native bush, vineyards, olive groves, and laid-back seaside villages. It is the perfect day trip.
Visit Connell's Bay Sculpture Park where you will see art and nature unite. Owners John and Jo Gow have a passion for art, theater, and the natural outdoor environment, and they bring these interests together to showcase New Zealand sculptors. Viewing these awe-inspiring art works on a private tour in this environment is an experience to be treasured. Enjoy lunch at Poderi Crisci, a hillside restaurant featuring classic Italian fare and sweeping vistas.
Set in the heart of Hawke's Bay wine country, Napier is known as New Zealand's Art Deco capital. Following a devastating earthquake on North Island, much of the city was rebuilt during the height of the art deco movement. Stroll these beautifully preserved streets as if you’re perusing the halls of a museum.
Located on the eastern coast of the island, Napier is in the perfect vicinity of a plethora of exquisite wineries, expansive golf courses, and ample wildlife opportunities. Head down to the Cape Kidnapper Gannet Reserve to see a colony of these pelican-like birds or visit the country’s largest aquarium.
On arrival, you will be collected at the airport by a luxurious vintage car for an Art Deco tour telling the story of the 1931 earthquake and how the city was rebuilt. Enjoy lunch at Clearview Estate and meet with the winemaker to understand the philosophy of crafting enduring wines with great fruit intensity which truly represent their terroir and varietal character.
Play the challenging Cape Kidnappers Golf Course, one of the most exciting courses in the Southern Hemisphere. You will love the breathtaking views from many of the fairways and greens. The par-71 course, 7,592 yards from the back tees, has five sets of tees for players of all levels. Not a golfer? Tag along to enjoy the views of the bay on every hole!
This is your unforgettable chance to see the rare, endangered kiwi in its natural habitat. Venture into the pine forests surrounding the Lodge at Cape Kidnappers with an experienced guide who will carry out essential monitoring of kiwi chicks. Assist your guide with checking the kiwi's radio transmitters, and weigh and measure the birds to monitor their wellbeing. Proceeds from this experience go to the Cape Kidnappers' Sanctuary to ensure the continuation of their work preserving New Zealand’s native species.
Wharekauhau's achingly beautiful surroundings feature an incredibly successful farming operation that put it on the map in the mid-1800s.
Bordered by the Rimutaka Range and Pacific Ocean, this classic New Zealand Romney sheep station features all the activities that have created New Zealand's legendary farming heritage including sheep shearing demonstrations, sheep dogs in action, and daily farm events.
Travel along the rugged coastline to the picturesque, historic fishing village of Ngawi, looking back overWharekauhau's achingly beautiful surroundings feature an incredibly successful farming operation that put it on the map in the mid-1800s. Bordered by the Rimutaka Range and Pacific Ocean, this classic New Zealand Romney sheep station features all the activities that have created New Zealand's legendary farming heritage including sheep shearing demonstrations, sheep dogs in action, and daily farm events. Palliser Bay to Wharekauhau. Continue to one of New Zealand's largest brown fur seal colonies where seals bask in this unspoiled natural environment. While there, climb to the top of the lighthouse for magnificent views.
Enjoy a round of clay shooting, which tests the reflexes like no other sport. What better place to enjoy a shoot than Wharekauhau's own clay target field?
Delight in a gin tasting of Wharekauhau's very own Lighthouse Gin. Lighthouse Gin starts with pure mountain spring water, sourced at Wharekauhau Estate. The water is harmoniously mixed with hand-zested navel oranges, Yen Ben lemons and hints of peppery native botanicals to create a premium gin of exceptional flavor and complexity.
