Part of the First Light Travel Group
South Pacific Specialists
+64 (9) 320 1065
Experience an unforgettable journey to stunning destinations, starting at Fiji's Tokoriki Island Resort, then exploring New Zealand's North and South Islands before ending at Matakauri Lodge in Queenstown. Enjoy fine dining, spa treatments, and outdoor activities amidst breathtaking mountain views. The perfect mix of adventure and relaxation in the South Pacific.
Duration: 20
Starts: Nadi, Fiji
Finishes: Queenstown, New Zealand
Arrive in Nadi, transfer to the Radisson Blue for your first night
Welcome to Fiji! Your adventure begins in Nadi, where you’ll be greeted at the airport by a friendly representative who will help you transfer to your first accommodation, the Radisson Blu Resort Fiji on Denarau Island. Just a short drive from the airport, this luxurious resort is set amidst lush tropical gardens and offers stunning views of the ocean. Check into your room, unwind and soak up the warm Fijian hospitality before embarking on your exciting journey ahead.
1 night at Radisson Blu Resort, Denarau Island
Total Driving Time: 20 mins from Nadi Airport
Take a relaxing water taxi to Tokoriki Island for an unforgettable arrival
Indulge in barefoot luxury with a three-night stay at Tokoriki Island Resort. Located on a secluded island, this adults-only resort offers stunning ocean views, white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy world-class dining, pampering spa treatments and a range of activities, including snorkelling, diving and cultural experiences.
3 nights at Tokoriki Island Resort
Return to Nadi airport for your flight to New Zealand
Bid farewell to the idyllic Tokoriki Island and take a short boat transfer to the main island of Fiji, Viti Levu. Fly from Nadi International Airport to Auckland, New Zealand. Upon arrival, explore the vibrant city with its blend of modernity and nature, including the stunning Auckland Harbour and Sky Tower. Enjoy a comfortable stay at luxurious QT hotel before continuing on your journey to explore the beauty of New Zealand.
2 nights at QT Auckland
Have a gourmet private food and wine tour of Waiheke Island
Experience a luxurious food and wine tour on Waiheke Island, just a short ferry ride from downtown Auckland. Visit some of New Zealand’s top wineries, sample award-winning wines and indulge in delicious cuisine at a selection of stunning vineyard restaurants. Enjoy breathtaking views of the island’s stunning landscapes and coastlines before returning to Auckland on the ferry.
Collect your rental car and start your self drive trip travelling south to Waitomo and Rotorua
After collecting your rental car, travel from Auckland to Waitomo and immerse yourself in the magic of the glowworm caves. Marvel at the twinkling lights of thousands of tiny creatures as you glide through the underground caverns. After your cave tour, head to On the Point Luxury Lodge, a secluded retreat nestled on the point overlooking Mokoia Island. This luxurious lodge offers a range of indulgent experiences, from fine dining to pampering spa treatments.
This evening you will be transferred to Te Pā Tū, It offers an immersive and interactive journey that allows visitors to learn about the rich Maori culture, traditions, and way of life. The experience, which is designed to be educational, engaging, and entertaining, ends with a traditional meal – cooked in the underground hāngi (earth oven).
2 nights at On the Point Luxury Lodge
Approximate Distance: Drive to Waitomo (200kms) Continue to Rotorua (140kms)
Total Driving Time: Drive to Waitomo (2 hours 30 mins) Continue to Rotorua (1 hours 50 mins)
Spend some time relaxing at the Polynesian Spa
Today is a day to relax and the lodge, followed by a visit to the mineral pools at the Polynesian Spa.
The Polynesian Spa in Rotorua is a world-renowned geothermal spa that offers a range of relaxing and rejuvenating spa treatments. The spa is situated on the shores of Lake Rotorua and features natural hot mineral pools that are heated by the earth’s geothermal activity. Visitors can soak in the therapeutic waters while enjoying stunning lake views. The spa offers a range of spa therapies, massages, and beauty treatments to choose from.
After your Grade 3-4 raft adventure travel to Lake Taupo
Today you will travel from Rotorua to Taupo, after enjoying a thrilling and scenic rafting trip on the Rangatikei River. The journey takes you through rugged terrain, past towering cliffs, and across turbulent rapids, providing an adrenaline-fueled adventure. The river is also surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including native bush, wildlife, and birdlife. The trip is led by expert guides who provide a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages and skill levels.
You’ll spend the next two nights staying at Taupo – on the shores of Lake Taupo that formed as a crater lake following an enormous volcanic eruption that began over 300,000 years ago.
2 nights at Huka Lodge
Approximate Distance: 80km
Total Driving Time: 60 mins
Helicopter access to the remote back country New Zealand is famed for
Optional today is to take a helicopter journey in to New Zealand’s best high country rivers, you can gain entry to some of the most pristine waters that are home to brown and rainbow trout. These fish typically have an average weight of 1-2 kilos, and lucky anglers may even have the chance to catch larger trophy trout each season. The helicopter transport allows you to access remote areas that are otherwise difficult to reach, providing a unique and exciting fishing experience.
Nelson is the sunshine capital of New Zealand and the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park
Fly from Taupo to Nelson for a quick and convenient way to access the stunning Abel Tasman National Park. Pihopa Retreat, is an idyllic haven nestled in native bushland, a short 5 minute ride from the airport. You have two nights in Nelson, a charming coastal city fringed by ocean and mountain views all around. Known for its stunning scenery, artistic culture, and delicious local cuisine, Nelson is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
2 nights at Pihopa Retreat
Spend time sailing, kayaking and exploring the golden sands of the Abel Tasman
Departing from Kaiteriteri Beach, visitors can enjoy a comfortable sail aboard a spacious catamaran while taking in the breathtaking views of the park’s golden beaches, turquoise waters, and lush forests. With no set timetable, you have the freedom to make the most of the opportunities that arise on the day. The full day tour (6 hours) provides exclusive use of the boat, skipper, and equipment. Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Abel Tasman National Park, including secluded coves, golden sand beaches, pristine waters, and native wildlife. Take your time to explore tidal lagoons, secluded beaches, or stretch your legs with a small walk in the park.
Travel via Marlborough Wine Country to Kaikoura
Traveling between Nelson and Kaikoura is a scenic journey that takes you through picturesque towns and stunning coastal views. To break up the trip, a stop at Cloudy Bay Winery is highly recommended, where you can sample some of the most famous Te Koko Sauvignon Blanc while taking in the panoramic views of the vineyards. From there, continue your journey to Kaikoura, known for its abundant marine life and rugged mountain ranges, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
1 night at Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses
Approximate Distance: 250 km
Total Driving Time: 3hrs 20 minutes
Experience a swim with the seals in Kaikōura before travelling to Christchurch
Kaikōura offers a life-changing opportunity to swim with Dusky Dolphins, known for their playful and acrobatic nature. With no enclosures or constraints, the encounter is entirely on the dolphins’ terms, making it a truly authentic experience. Kaikōura boasts one of the world’s highest success rates for swimming with dolphins, providing a memorable and exhilarating adventure in the open ocean. This encounter is a must-add to anyone’s bucket list and guarantees an unforgettable experience.
After an unforgettable dolphin swim experience in Kaikōura, a scenic drive south takes you towards Christchurch. This route follows the stunning coastline, providing an opportunity to witness the rugged beauty of the South Island’s eastern coast. Along the way, make a stop at the charming town of Cheviot, known for its picturesque countryside and locally-made products. As you reach Christchurch, prepare to be amazed by the city’s innovative rebuilding efforts following the 2011 earthquake, including the stunning Riverside Markets and The Terrace Dining Precinct, art installations, and the architecture of a re-envisioned city.
1 night at The George
Approximate Distance: 180km
Total Driving Time: 2hrs 20 mins
Travel inland to the Southern Alps, with Mount Cook being the highest New Zealand mountain
Travelling from Christchurch to Mount Cook Village via Tekapo is a scenic journey that offers breathtaking views of the South Island’s natural beauty. As you leave Christchurch, the landscape changes to rolling hills and farmland before reaching the picturesque Lake Tekapo, famous for its turquoise waters and the Church of the Good Shepherd. From there, continue your journey to Mount Cook Village, nestled in the heart of the Southern Alps, offering awe-inspiring views of New Zealand’s highest peak.
This evening take part in Mount Cook’s stargazing – in New Zealand’s Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve. With minimal light pollution, the reserve offers unparalleled views of the southern hemisphere’s stars, planets, and galaxies.
2 nights at The Hermitage
Approximate Distance: 330km
Total Driving Time: 4 hr 30 mins
Take the premier flight over the Mt Cook National Park and its vast glaciers and snowfields
Explore the expansive Mt Cook National Park and its vast glaciers and snowfields, where you can witness the ancient waters of the Tasman Glacier lake and embark on a thrilling flight along the length of New Zealand’s longest glacier, the Tasman Glacier. Enjoy a snow landing experience, standing amongst the mountains and taking in the breathtaking panoramic view of Aoraki/Mount Cook, the highest peak in New Zealand. Continuing your adventure, cross over to the West Coast to witness the formidable Franz Josef and Fox glaciers, before concluding your journey with uninterrupted views of the summit ridge of Aoraki/Mt Cook.
Travel over the Lindis Pass on full display stunning mountain ranges, crystal-clear lakes, and picturesque countryside as far as the eye can see
Embark on an awe-inspiring journey from Mount Cook to Matakauri Lodge via the scenic Lindis Pass and Gibbston Valley. As you traverse through the rugged mountain terrain, take in the panoramic vistas of the snow-capped peaks, vast glacial valleys, and crystal-clear rivers. Cross the stunning Lindis Pass, with its expansive tussock grasslands, before arriving at the famed Gibbston Valley wine region. Savor the award-winning wines and culinary delights of the region before continuing on to Matakauri Lodge, nestled amidst one of the world’s most spectacular landscapes, for an unforgettable luxury retreat.
3 nights at Matakauri Lodge
Approximate Distance: 270km
Total Driving Time: 3hrs 20 mins
Experience the thrill of a jump with a Queenstown tandem 12,000ft skydive
After waking up in the luxury of Matakauri Lodge, it’s time for an adrenaline-filled adventure. Get ready for a tandem skydiving experience at 12,000ft, with a 45-second freefall. Take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Wakatipu as you soar through the sky. With an experienced guide by your side, feel the rush of excitement as you jump out of the plane and experience the ultimate thrill of a lifetime. After the skydiving, return to the lodge to relax and reflect on the unforgettable experience.
Your last day in New Zealand, travel to a paradise of hanging glaciers and waterfalls
Experience a breathtaking helicopter ride with Over The Top Helicopters to the Earnslaw Burn, followed by a thrilling hike. Take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers as you soar through the air in a comfortable helicopter. Upon landing, embark on a scenic hike through the alpine landscape, past cascading waterfalls, and glacial pools. The Earnslaw Burn hike offers stunning vistas of the mountain range and the glacier-carved valley below. With an experienced guide by your side, immerse yourself in the beauty of the New Zealand wilderness and create unforgettable memories.
Fly from Queenstown to Auckland for your international connection
Today you will fly from Queenstown airport to Auckland for your onward international flight. Fiji and New Zealand will have exceeded your expectations for a trip in parts – pure relaxation and adventure. All elements of this trip will be tailored to suit your interests.
Ready to find out more? Talk to one of our friendly travel designers about his tour. We guarantee you it will be the experience of a lifetime!
ENQUIRELike what you see? Contact us today to find out more about our exclusive itineraries. Each Absolute tour is tailored to who you are and what you want to do.
Experience ultimate relaxation and adventure in paradise, from Fiji's turquoise waters to New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Our team has access to the most unique accommodation, superb activities, and flight specials. Contact us for a personalised experience.
Inspiring travel itineraries and expert advice delivered to your inbox.
START PLANNING
Experience a luxurious stay at the Radisson Blu Resort Fiji Denarau Island, nestled along the picturesque beachfront of Denarau Island. This upscale resort offers an array of contemporary rooms and suites, each featuring modern amenities and private balconies or patios. Guests can indulge in a variety of on-site dining options, including themed dinners and live entertainment, or unwind at the Harmony Retreat Day Spa. Enjoy the resort’s three swimming pools, water slide, and dedicated Kids’ Club. With its prime location, the resort is the perfect starting point to explore the island’s attractions and activities. 20 minutes from Nadi International Airport.
The adults only resort boasts 36 standalone villas that stretch along the main beach, ensuring a peaceful and uncrowded atmosphere. The most luxurious accommodations are the beachfront pool villas, featuring unparalleled ocean vistas and an exclusive infinity pool. Each villa also includes a personal cabana with a double day bed and a private pathway leading to the beach. Regardless of your chosen room type, all accommodations are designed to provide a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere, free from distractions like TV, internet, and phones. If you need to stay connected, the main lobby offers access, but you’ll likely prefer to spend your time in your peaceful bure.
What makes Tokoriki Unique
QT Hotels & Resorts are renowned for their personalized guest experience, exquisite dining, and unique design. QT Auckland, which opened in November 2020, is a luxurious and quirky retreat nestled in Viaduct Harbour. The hotel features 150 rooms and suites, a signature restaurant called Esther in collaboration with Chef Sean Connolly, and a sixth-floor bar with stunning views of the harbor. The design-led rooms and public spaces celebrate individuality and self-discovery, making for a memorable and unconventional stay.
What makes QT Hotels unique
On The Point is a charming luxury sanctuary nestled amidst the glistening waters of Lake Rotorua, boasting breathtaking vistas of the historic Mokoia Island. This exquisite haven provides an ideal hub for immersing oneself in New Zealand’s vibrant culture. Alternatively, guests can luxuriate in the serene ambiance of this picturesque setting while unwinding in our cozy entertainment areas replete with welcoming fireplaces. The resort’s lush surroundings offer a plethora of indulgences such as heavenly massages at our onsite spa, private beach fly fishing, aquatic sports, tennis, and boating excursions- all within arm’s reach.
Huka Lodge is sitting on 17 acres of countryside on the banks of the Waikato River, Huka Lodge boasts an outdoor swimming pool, a tennis court and a spa pool. Huka Lodge is just 10 minutes’ walk from the famous Huka Falls. You can also choose play a game of croquet, or explore the area using the free mountain bikes. The property also features a library, a terrace and massage services.
Pihopa Retreat is set in 5.5 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, giving you plenty of space to relax and wander. The luxurious suites provide a home away from home. Our spacious villas have a bedroom and lounge area to relax in, or you can venture outside to soak up the atmosphere on the balcony. After a busy day of sightseeing, Pihopa Retreat offers complete peace and luxury. Large and comfortable beds, a pillow menu to mull over and endless added extras to surprise you. We hope we can provide you with a place to completely re-charge.
Nested 30 feet (9 meters) up amidst a canopy of native Manuka grove is Hapuku Tree Houses, offering spectacular views over Kaikoura’s dramatic coastline. Each tree house has been designed to complement the natural environment, made from native woods and copper shingles.
The George hotel in Christchurch typifies luxury at every level. Extensive facilities, comprehensive service, excellent quality and attention to detail. Experience our signature style and consistent personalised service. The George restaurant – the award-winning 50 Bistro offers a beautiful setting overlooking Hagley Park, event spaces offer natural light, seclusion and all the modern conveniences while the accommodation offers 5-star comfort.
Proudly New Zealand & family owned, the Hermitage Hotel, Aoraki/Mount Cook is an iconic hotel with a rich history spanning over 130 years.
The Hermitage is the perfect base to explore the natural wonders of the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, with a variety of accommodation options, a collection of dining establishments & unique activities whilst providing genuine kiwi hospitality.
Spectacularly located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Matakauri Lodge looks out to a mesmerizing panorama of the big three; The Remarkables, Cecil and Walter Peak. Located a mere seven-minute drive away from the lively town of Queenstown, this lakeside retreat is situated in an alpine setting, surrounded by some of the world’s most stunning landscapes. The lodge’s luxurious aesthetic is unpretentious and inviting, featuring sleek glass, stone, and timber elements that highlight and celebrate the surrounding mountainscape. Matakauri has been ranked among the top three lodges in both New Zealand and Australia, making it the ultimate sanctuary to unwind and recharge after an adventure-filled day exploring the region’s mountain ranges, vast fjords, and thrilling activities.
Spectacularly located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Matakauri Lodge looks out to a mesmerizing panorama of the big three; The Remarkables, Cecil and Walter Peak. Located a mere seven-minute drive away from the lively town of Queenstown, this lakeside retreat is situated in an alpine setting, surrounded by some of the world’s most stunning landscapes. The lodge’s luxurious aesthetic is unpretentious and inviting, featuring sleek glass, stone, and timber elements that highlight and celebrate the surrounding mountainscape. Matakauri has been ranked among the top three lodges in both New Zealand and Australia, making it the ultimate sanctuary to unwind and recharge after an adventure-filled day exploring the region’s mountain ranges, vast fjords, and thrilling activities.
Since the late 1970s, Waiheke’s benign 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 internationally award-winning wines. At each vineyard, you’ll taste a selection of wines and enjoy an in-depth discussion with the winemaker.
For something a little more tactile, we can arrange a visit to a bronze crafting studio, a cobbler who creates individual pairs of shoes from scratch, a ceramic artist, or a tour of the spectacular sculpture park. As part of your tour, you can opt to break up the day with a scenic walk on one of Waiheke’s secluded beaches.
On this tour, you will have the opportunity to explore two distinctive caves. Firstly, you will be able to take a captivating boat ride through the Spellbound Glowworm Cave, which is renowned for having the brightest glowworms in Waitomo. Following that, you will be able to delve into the enigmatic depths of The Cave of the Spirit, which is an exclusive small group experience limited to only 12 people. During the tour, you are welcome to take photographs and enjoy hot drinks. Additionally, you will have the chance to take easy strolls through beautiful limestone landscapes as you travel between the caves, making this an unforgettable and rewarding excursion. This tour can be private by arrangment.
This four-hour evening is a feast of knowledge as well as divine seasonal kai (cuisine) within our forest Pā (sanctuary), its tawa trees and crackling bonfires.
Kai horotai (morsels) welcome guests with seasonal favourites that may include crispy pork and candied apple encased in kawakawa leaves, pāua (abalone), pickled pikopiko (native fern frond), smoked fish, ika mata (ceviche) and chilled kawakawa tea.
Within the forest-formed amphitheatre attention shifts to stories relayed through haka, song and drama, before torch light guides manuhiri (guests) to an al fresco dining space with three-course feast.
The famous hāngī shares a table with Māori fusion dishes developed and curated by celebrated Māori chefs, prepared by our own ringawera (hot hands). We serve dinner al fresco on warmer nights and in our wharekai (dining room) if the weather is inclement.
Enjoy a thrilling and scenic rafting trip on the Rangatikei River. The Rangitaiki Grade 3-4 adventure takes you to the next level of expedition by combining the stunning beauty of New Zealand’s native bush and plantation forests with the exhilarating rush of rapids and foamy white waters. This includes the iconic ‘Geoff’s Joy,’ a Grade 4 rapid that is sure to get your heart racing. Experience the thrill of navigating through the rapids while taking in the scenic views of the lush forests that surround you.
Fishing can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s hard to know where to start if you’re a beginner. Even if you’ve done some fishing before, it can be tough to know what gear to use, where to go, or how to catch trout in New Zealand’s pristine waters. Guided Fly Fishing is the perfect solution for anyone looking for a successful half day on the water. Our Orvis-endorsed guides will take you to some of the best fly fishing waters in Taupo, where you’ll have the chance to catch rainbow and brown trout in untouched waters.
Enjoy a fun-filled tour of the Nelson/Tasman region on your own private sailing catamaran. With no set timetable, you have the freedom to make the most of the opportunities that arise on the day. The full day tour (6 hours) provides exclusive use of the boat, skipper, and equipment. Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Abel Tasman National Park, including secluded coves, golden sand beaches, pristine waters, and native wildlife. Take your time to explore tidal lagoons, secluded beaches, or stretch your legs with a small walk in the park.
SWIMMING WITH DOLPHINS IS A LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCE
Kaikōura is one of the best places in the world to encounter dolphins in their natural environment. It’s just you, the open ocean… and Kaikōura’s wild Dusky Dolphins. One of the most interactive and acrobatic species of dolphin, they’re thrilling to watch and magical to interact with. Here the encounter is all on their terms. With one of the highest success rates in the world, this bucket list experience is one you will never forget!
Explore the expansive Mt Cook National Park and its vast glaciers and snowfields, where you can witness the ancient waters of the Tasman Glacier lake and embark on a thrilling flight along the length of New Zealand’s longest glacier, the Tasman Glacier. Enjoy a snow landing experience, standing amongst the mountains and taking in the breathtaking panoramic view of Aoraki/Mount Cook, the highest peak in New Zealand. Continuing your adventure, cross over to the West Coast to witness the formidable Franz Josef and Fox glaciers, before concluding your journey with uninterrupted views of the summit ridge of Aoraki/Mt Cook.
Embark on an exhilarating adventure with a tandem skydive from a height of 12,000 ft, where you will be securely fastened to a skilled jumpmaster. Brace yourself for an overwhelming rush of sensations as you exit the aircraft door and plummet towards the ground at a thrilling speed of 200kph, experiencing up to 45 seconds of freefall.
Take in the stunning vistas of New Zealand’s awe-inspiring scenery as you glide through the air, surrounded by snow-capped mountain tops above the Southern Lakes of Queenstown. Soak in the breathtaking views of the Wakatipu basin during a 5-minute canopy ride. This thrilling experience also includes a 15-minute scenic flight and transportation back to Queenstown.
The Earnslaw Burn with its hanging glacier and cascading waterfalls really is New Zealand’s best-kept secret, and a guided heli hike is the best way to experience it.
Departing Glenorchy, take a heli flight over Glenorchy, the Dart River, and Mt Alfred before touching down in the Mt Earnslaw basin.
After 1.5 – 2 hours of walking, your hike will conclude in the Earnslaw Burn by a tumbling waterfall and below Mt Earnslaw Glacier – a world famous glacier. Here, in this beautiful spot, you can sit back and relax with a picnic and soak in the tranquillity of this breathtaking location.
After your picnic, your pilot will return you to Glenorchy via a 1,000 metre (over 3,000 feet) ascent towards the blue ice of the hanging glacier.
Experience the ultimate integrated resort getaway in Fiji, all in one convenient location. Just a quick 20-minute drive from Nadi Airport, you will find Fiji’s most prestigious resort community. Indulge in luxury and relaxation at any of the nine family-friendly resorts, or unwind with leisurely activities such as playing a round of golf at the 18-hole championship golf course and exploring the nearby Port Denarau marina complex.
Tokoriki Island, part of Fiji’s Mamanuca archipelago, can be reached by a 15-minute helicopter or seaplane ride from Nadi International Airport or a 45-minute boat ride from Port Denarau. Embrace the captivating beauty of turquoise waters, tropical greenery, and vibrant coral reefs. Enjoy a variety of activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, or unwinding on the beach. With luxurious resorts, Tokoriki Island is an idyllic destination for a romantic getaway or a serene escape from daily life.
As the name belies, ‘The City of Sails’ – as Auckland is fondly known – is a stunning sea side city. The city centre surrounds a large harbour that bustles with life, both on water and on land. In the Auckland region, the North Island is geographically narrow and the city straddles a slim piece of land with coastline facing both the Pacific Ocean, and, on the wild West Coast, the Tasman Sea. Boutique shopping, pulsing, Pacific-inspired markets and a passionate cafe culture make this city a charming place to visit.
Rotorua is surrounded by steaming lakes, bubbling hot pools and bursting geysers, host to some of the world’s most incredible natural forces. A heartland of Maori culture, the local people have embraced this turbulent land. For the traveller there is a breadth of attractions – families will enjoy viewing farm attractions and native wildlife, adventure seekers can experience world class white water rafting or mountain biking, while culture enthusiasts can experience indepth vibrant Maori traditions.
Impressive is the word best used to describe Lake Taupo; after all, it is the biggest volcanic crater in the World! Lake Taupo is set amidst clean, green countryside, spectacular mountain scenery, beautiful native bush and some of the largest pine forests in the Southern Hemisphere. Taupo offers many leisure activities including exploring the lake by boat for scenery or fishing; view the mighty Huka Falls or visit local geothermal sites with natural hot pools and springs, steaming craters and boiling mud pools.
Nelson – City of Sunshine. A haven for artisans seeking a lifestyle amid a landscape of mountains, valleys, unspoilt shores and National Parks, including the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park. The idyllic climate has enabled a winery, art and orchard trail to explore by car or relaxing bike ride.
Few places in the world can boast of such natural wonders as those offered by land and sea in Kaikoura. Situated midway between Christchurch and Picton on the rugged east coast of New Zealand’s South Island, Kaikoura is overlooked by majestic mountains, which are snow-capped for many months of the year. This unique combination of ocean and mountains offers stunning coastal alpine scenery and a host of eco-tourism oriented activities, including Whale watching, Dolphin and Seal swimming, walks, and much more!
Christchurch is the city of exploration, where urban regeneration and heritage thrive. The city is constantly evolving, always giving locals and visitors something new to explore. Expect street art and innovative projects, a bustling hospitality scene and established green spaces. Christchurch is the newest city in the world, and it’s time the world rediscovered its secrets.The central city is filled with cutting-edge architecture alongside some of the oldest buildings in New Zealand. The Avon River intersects the city, bringing a natural landscape to the urban environment.
MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK
Mt Cook National Park is known for its exquisite alpine beauty and is home to the highest mountain in New Zealand, Mt Cook. Its Maori name, ‘Aoraki’ means ‘cloud piercer’ and at 12,016ft (3,755m) it towers above the surrounding snow-covered peaks in the park. A third of the park is covered in permanent ice and snow and the mighty Tasman Glacier is the longest glacier outside of the polar regions. This is the very heart and soul of a World Heritage and National Park wilderness playground. Ice, snow, hidden valleys, lakes and glaciers offer golden opportunities for discovery, relaxation and adventure.
Queenstown, located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the magnificent Southern Alps, is New Zealand’s most celebrated destination. Offering a wealth of accommodation to suit all travellers, there is huge diversity in the experiences to be enjoyed – from adrenaline activities such as bungee jumps and sky diving, adventurous excursions like jet-boating and hiking through to superb golf, gourmet food and wine tours, alpine tours and hiking.