auckland & the coromandel peninsula Tours Unique & Boutique New Zealand

Itinerary:

Days 1-2 Auckland  
Kia Ora! Welcome to Auckland. Known for its soaring Sky Tower, diverse foodie scene and vibrant harbour, there are plenty of urban and natural attractions to explore.    

Day 3 Auckland to Rotorua    
Pick up your car and travel south to Rotorua, a unique geothermal wonderland of geysers and hot pools. Your quaint lakefront lodge boasts beautiful views across the lake to Mount Tarawera.    

Days 4-5 Rotorua to Turangi    
Continue south past Lake Taupo to the enchanting River Birches in Turangi. Poised on the banks of the Tongariro River, this delightful guesthouse offers opportunities for fly fishing and makes an excellent base to hike one of New Zealand’s most dramatic ‘Great Walks’: the Tongariro Crossing.    

Days 6-7 Turangi to Kapiti Coast  
The rolling rural landscape and unspoilt beaches of the Kapiti Coast are an idyllic place to rejuvenate. On day seven discover the rare birdlife of Kapiti Island on a captivating tour.  

Day 8 Kapiti Coast to Wellington    
Drive the short distance to New Zealand’s capital, Wellington, the cultural heart and soul of the country. Visit the Te Papa museum to learn about Maori heritage.    

Days 9-10 Wellington to Marlborough Sounds    
Catch the Interislander ferry across the Cook Strait and marvel at the lush green hills of the Sounds rising from the water as you arrive in Picton. A short water taxi ride takes you to the incredible Bay of Many Coves, nestled amongst the forest of Queen Charlotte Sound and boasting sublime views from every angle. Enjoy stand-up paddle boarding, walks along the Queen Charlotte Track and exquisite dining.    

Day 11 Marlborough Sounds to Blenheim  
After a water taxi back to Picton, pick up your car and continue to The Peppertree. This gorgeous Edwardian villa is conveniently located close to Malborough’s vineyards and also produces its own wine!    

Days 12-13 Blenheim to Kaikoura    
Follow the coastal road to Kaikoura. Totally unique, Hapuku Lodge offers a peaceful ambience surrounded by mountains and farmland. On day 13 discover the region’s marine life on a fabulous whale watch tour.    

Day 14 Kaikoura to Christchurch    
Make the short drive to Christchurch and stretch your legs with a walk along the pretty Avon River.    

Days 15-16 Christchurch to Franz Josef
Head through the rapidly changing landscapes of the Canterbury Plains and Arthur’s Pass to the picturesque west coast. Explore Franz Josef from your luxurious rainforest retreat and take a dip in the hot springs as night falls.

Days 17-18 Franz Josef to Queenstown    
Journey through the remote wilderness and river valleys of Mount Aspiring National Park en route to Queenstown. Your friendly boutique hotel is perched on a hillside and offers some of the best lake views around.  

Days 19-20 Queenstown to Fiordland NP    
Offering a traditional lodge experience, cosy Fiordland Lodge boasts a dramatic setting overlooking Lake Te Anau and is the perfect base to explore the national park.    

Days 21-22 Fiordland NP to Lake Pukaki
Continue to Lake Pukaki, where your gorgeous eco lodge looks across the glistening turquoise waters to Mount Cook, the perfect final stop on your adventure.    

Day 23 Lake Pukaki to Christchurch
Return to Christchurch.