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South Pacific Specialists
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Beginning in the adventurous alpine resort Queenstown, for a customized tour of New Zealand's stunning landscapes, charming towns, and cultural experiences. Relax and enjoy the beauty of Samoa at the Seabreeze Resort for 5 days a true oasis of tranquility.
Duration: 21
Starts: Queenstown, New Zealand
Finishes: Apia, Samoa
Today you will be transferred to Sydney Airport to fly to Queenstown New Zealand, on arrival transfer to your hotel
Today is an exciting day as you depart from the bustling Sydney International Airport to embark on a journey to the picturesque Queenstown, New Zealand. This charming destination is renowned for its natural beauty and adventurous activities that attract visitors from all over the world. As you make your way to Queenstown, get ready to witness stunning landscapes, experience thrilling outdoor pursuits, and indulge in delectable cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed holiday, Queenstown has something to offer everyone. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
4 nights at Eichardts Private Hotel
Drive to and Fly back from Milford Sound - experience the full beauty of Fiordland
The journey begins with a comfortable coach ride from Queenstown, where you’ll be mesmerized by the stunning scenery of the Fiordland National Park. Once you reach Milford Sound, you’ll embark on a leisurely cruise along the pristine waters, surrounded by majestic peaks, waterfalls, and wildlife. The highlight of the trip is a scenic flight over the Southern Alps, where you’ll witness unparalleled views of the stunning scenery from a unique vantage point. This exhilarating adventure is an experience of a lifetime, perfect for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Approximate Distance: 287 km
Total Driving Time: 4 hours
Cruise to Lake Mou Waho and High Country Station by 4WD
Maximize your day in Wanaka with this guided nature encounter that offers a diverse range of activities. Start your day by cruising on the crystal-clear waters of Lake Wanaka, heading towards the Mou Waho Island Nature Reserve. A guided walk through the island’s trails leads you to a breathtaking summit, where you’ll discover the island’s unique feature – a lake on top of an island!
Get up close and personal with rare native birds, including weka, wood pigeon, and bellbird while enjoying a delightful ‘high tea.’ Take part in an eco-friendly experience by planting a tree on the island.
After lunch at one of Wanaka’s exceptional cafes (at your own expense), embark on a leisurely 4WD tour of a local sheep station to uncover the hidden secrets of Wanaka’s high country. This activity-packed tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts who want to experience the best of Wanaka in a day.
Take the Skyline view and private Onsen Hot Pools
Experience a relaxing day in Queenstown, New Zealand, with a visit to the Skyline Gondola and the Onsen hot pools. Start your day with a scenic ride on the Skyline Gondola, which offers stunning views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu.
Later, unwind and relax in a private bathing experience at the Onsen hot pools. Immerse yourself in the therapeutic mineral waters while soaking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. This unique and tranquil experience is the perfect way to end your stay in Queenstown.
Travel from Queenstown to Franz Josef over the Haast Pass for breathtaking views.
Today your driver will collect you as you embark on a breathtaking journey through the Haast Pass while driving from Queenstown to Franz Josef. The route offers an incredible display of natural beauty, with picturesque mountains, crystal-clear rivers, and dense forests lining the way. The journey takes you through remote and untouched areas of New Zealand, where you’ll experience stunning waterfalls, glacial lakes, and rugged terrain. This scenic drive is the perfect way to explore the wilderness of the South Island and offers numerous opportunities to stop and take in the stunning views along the way.
2 nights at Rainforest Retreat
Approximate Distance: 350km
Total Driving Time: 5 hours
Have a birds eye view over Franz and Fox Glacier with snow landing
Fly over Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier on a spectacular helicopter tour that includes a landing right on the snow. Seeing both glaciers on a single helicopter flight offers an incredible perspective and understanding of New Zealand’s massive ice sheets, and you touch down on one of the glaciers to snap up-close photographs of the frozen terrain.
Take one of the world's great train journeys across the Main Divide to Christchurch
Travelling from Franz Josef to Greymouth involves a picturesque drive along the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island. The route winds through lush rainforest and past stunning glacier-fed rivers. Upon arrival in Greymouth, board the Tranz Alpine train, which is a scenic journey through the Southern Alps to Christchurch. The train passes through towering mountain ranges, stunning gorges, and across remote valleys, providing breathtaking views of the Canterbury Plains and the braided Waimakariri River. The journey is a highlight of any New Zealand South Island itinerary, showcasing the natural beauty of the region.
1 night at The George
Approximate Distance: 171km
Total Driving Time: 2 hours 30 mins
Your driver will take you today to Kaikoura - known as the Serengeti of the ocean
Your driver will collect you from The George Hotel and take the scenic route north to Kaikoura. The journey takes visitors through a picturesque wine country, passing by lush vineyards, rolling hills, and stunning mountain ranges. Guests can also stop at several wineries along the way to sample some of the region’s famous wines. Afterward, the journey continues to Kaikoura, where guests can enjoy spectacular coastal views and unique marine wildlife experiences, such as whale watching or swimming with dolphins.
2 nights at Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses
Approximate Distance: 181km
Total Driving Time: 3 hours
See several species of whale and marine mammals, and pelagic seabirds on this informative day out
A Kaikoura whale watching tour is an exciting adventure that takes visitors out into the ocean to observe some of the world’s largest and most magnificent creatures. Visitors will have the opportunity to see several species of whales, including sperm whales, humpback whales, and orcas, in their natural habitat. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the whales’ behavior and biology. Other marine wildlife, such as dolphins, seals, and albatross, are also often spotted on the tours. The experience is both exhilarating and educational, providing a deep appreciation for the natural wonders of the ocean.
Take another Great Journey of New Zealand to the home of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc
Departing Kaikoura at 10am the Coastal Pacific Train is a scenic rail journey that takes passengers from Kaikoura to Blenheim, traveling along the rugged coastline of New Zealand’s South Island. The journey provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, rolling hills, and rugged mountains. After arriving in Blenheim at midday you have a private driver at your disposal for a half day, time enough to enjoy af fresco dining at one of the picturesque vineyards of the Marlborough region.
1 night at Hotel D'Urville
Total Driving Time: 2hr 10 minutes
Transfer from Blenheim to Nelson
Todays journey passes through the stunning Marlborough region, passing by scenic vineyards, and valleys with rolling hills, perhaps stop in the seaside town of Havelock for coffee before passing through the winding Whangamoa range and meeting the coastline again at Glenduan as you travel towards Nelson with the scenic Atawhai harbour lapping against the roads edge.
2 nights at Pihopa Retreat
Approximate Distance: 114km
Total Driving Time: 1 hr 50 mins
Enjoy a sailing, walk and seals trip in New Zealand's smallest National Park
Embark on a morning sail from Kaiteriteri Beach, taking in the breathtaking scenery along the Abel Tasman National Park coastline. Your journey includes passing iconic landmarks such as Split Apple Rock and observing playful NZ Fur Seals. Admire the golden beaches, bays, islands, and the sounds of birdsong while your knowledgeable skipper shares insights into the area’s history, marine life, flora, and fauna. After arriving at Anchorage Bay around midday, enjoy your own packed lunch on the beach, with pre-ordered catering options available. Take a refreshing swim before beginning a self-guided nature walk back to Marahau, encompassing sandy beaches, picturesque lookouts, and stunning native bushland scenery along the 3-4 hour coastal track.
Leave the South Island and arrive in the geothermal and cultural precinct of New Zealand
Board a flight from Nelson to Rotorua, and upon arrival, check in at the On the Point Lodge. Later tonight, immerse yourself in the traditional Maori culture by attending the Te Pa Tu experience. This captivating event showcases Maori art, music, and dance, providing a unique insight into their culture and customs. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness a breathtaking haka performance and enjoy a delicious Hangi feast, cooked using traditional methods. The Te Pā Tū experience promises to be an unforgettable highlight of your trip to Rotorua.
2 nights at On the Point Luxury Lodge
The morning explore the geothermal wonderland and the afternoon delve further into the culture
Discover Rotorua’s geothermal wonders on the Eco Thermal Park Morning Tour, departing daily between 8:00-8:30 am from your accommodation. Witness New Zealand’s largest boiling mud pool, colourful hot springs, and volcanic features at Wai-O-Tapu, before experiencing the Lady Knox geyser eruption at 10:15 am. Next, visit the Waimangu Volcanic Valley and learn about the Mt. Tarawera eruption that created this stunning geothermal park. In the Elite Cultural Afternoon Tour, immerse yourself in Maori culture by visiting Te Puia and the Rotowhio Marae. Observe the Pohutu geyser and Maori War Canoe, and learn about the region’s volcanic and Maori history.
Experience the wonderful world of Hobbiton on your journey north to Auckland
Enjoy a private transfer from Rotorua to Auckland via Hobbiton, where you can explore the picturesque movie set used in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. Marvel at the charming Hobbit holes, gardens, and other iconic locations before continuing your journey to Auckland. With a private transfer, you can travel in comfort and style, with the added benefit of stopping at Hobbiton for a unique and unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the chance to visit this enchanting film location and create lasting memories on your transfer from Rotorua to Auckland.
2 nights at The Hotel Britomart
Approximate Distance: 228km
Total Driving Time: 3 hrs 30 mins
Free time in the City of Sails
To get the lay of the land perhaps start your day with a visit to the Sky Tower, the tallest freestanding structure in the Southern Hemisphere, for stunning views of the city. Head to the Auckland Art Gallery to discover New Zealand’s art and cultural heritage. Then, explore the Viaduct Harbour and grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants and cafes. Take a ferry to the nearby islands, such as Waiheke Island, to enjoy wine tasting and beautiful beaches.
Today leave Auckland and travel to the Sanctuary that is the Seabreeze Samoa
The Seabreeze Resort is located on the southern coastline of Upolo. Following your arrival at Faleolo Airport it will take you 1.5 hours drive to arrive at the `soul ‘of Samoa in the heart of paradise at the Seabreeze Resort. The Seabreeze Resort is an adults only oasis of tranquility.
4 nights at the Seabreeze Resort
From the time you wake - there is always something new to experience
Relax by the infinity pool with cocktail in had, lae on thebeach or take a dip within the protection of the pristine lagoon. Make the most of the in-villa spa services, offering a range of luxurious treatments.
Swim at the Sua Trench and visit the friendly local villages
Over the next couple of days make the most of this visit to Samoa.
Only a short drive or walk from the Seabreeze you will arrive at the Sua Trench. This unique land formation consists of two giant lava rock openings joined via ancient lava tubes cabes to each other and the ocean. Enjoy the experience of swimming in turquoise water accessed by a ladder.
Vavau Beach – One of Samoa’s best kept secrets. This natural beauty is a 1.5K walk from the resort with its own little grotto and white sandy beach. With no facilities, it reflects the natural beauty of a deserted beach for you to enjoy.
Apia Township – visit the markets, restaurants, cafes, STA Cultural Village and Robert Louis Stevenson’s museum. Take the 50 minute hike to the top of the mountain for breathtaking views of Apia and visit the grave of the man himself!
Faamavae - Farwell
After an exciting 21 day trip to New Zealand and Samoa it is time to return home. You will transfer back to the airport for your onward flight. All aspects of this trip can be molded to suit your requirements exactly, with more island hopping or adding on Australia to your trip. We eagerly await your instructions!
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!
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Eichardt’s Private Hotel is a Queenstown icon providing fine accommodation in seven luxurious Lake View Suites, four comfortably appointed Lakefront Apartments, The Residence and The Penthouse, all situated on premium lakefront positions in the heart of Queenstown. Eichardt’s opulent suites invite guests to soak up a sense of quiet before exploring one of the world’s truly remarkable locations. The hotel suites all feature a super-king bed, fireplace and mini-bar, a dressing room and bathroom.
Soak yourself in alpine ambience. This incredible two bedroom Deluxe Spa Tree House features a private outdoor hot tub amongst the forest canopy for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Supremely spacious and stylish one and two bedroom raised Deluxe Tree Houses, privately nestled amongst lush rainforest with large outdoor decks that feature a large hot bubbly spa pool for unwinding and relaxation amongst the rainforest.
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.
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.
Hotel d’Urville is situated in the heart of Blenheim, surrounded by the famous Marlborough wine growing region, and is housed in the historic 1920s art deco Public Trust building. The hotel offers a unique combination of originality, classic charm, and international quality. Our ten room boutique hotel caters to modern travelers who seek something exceptional, distinctive, and enchanting. Each room has its own individual flavor, captured through an eclectic mix of four-poster beds, exotic fabrics, and antiques.
We invite you to enjoy a beautiful dining experience in our award-winning Mollies Restaurant and Bamboo Tiger Jazz and Cocktail Bar, where our team will create an unforgettable experience for you.
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.
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.
The Hotel Britomart offers a perfect city getaway. Its hand-made brick exterior and beautifully timber-lined rooms showcase exceptional attention to detail. Moreover, you can enjoy the best of downtown waterfront Auckland right outside your front door. The hotel is situated in a vibrant nine-block precinct filled with plant-lined streets, historic warehouses, and excellent shopping and dining options, making it the perfect base to explore your inner city surroundings.
Designed with a unique Samoan flair, these accommodations prioritize outdoor living, allowing you to fully embrace the tropical paradise. Every villa is thoughtfully equipped with everything you need for an unforgettable stay, ensuring that your time at Seabreeze Resort is nothing short of extraordinary.
Soar over secluded alpine lakes, dramatic waterfalls, snow-covered mountain peaks, pristine glaciers and native beech forest. And just when you think the scenery can’t get any better; Milford Sound and Mitre Peak appear from over the rise.
Add a boat cruise along the fjord, an alpine landing or extended flying time to your scenic helicopter flight for the full Milford Sound experience.
Fly over Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier on a spectacular helicopter tour that includes a landing right on the snow. Seeing both glaciers on a single helicopter flight offers an incredible perspective and understanding of New Zealand’s massive ice sheets, and you touch down on one of the glaciers to snap up-close photographs of the frozen terrain.
The TranzAlpine is one of the world’s great train journeys covering 223 kilometres (139 miles) one-way, taking just under 5 hours. You’ll traverse the majestic Canterbury Plains, to the backdrop of the mighty Southern Alps – the journey of a lifetime.
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.
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.
Your tour starts with a drive through the picturesque 1,250 acre sheep farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges. Your personal guide will escort you through the twelve acre site recounting fascinating details of how the Hobbiton Movie set was created.
The Hobbit Holes™, Green Dragon™ Inn, Mill and other structures created for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films can be viewed and you will see how this beautiful piece of Waikato farmland was transformed into The Shire from Middle-earth.
This unique land formation consists of two giant lava rock openings joined via ancient lava tubes caves to each other and the ocean. One without water and the other with a beautiful deep swimming hole with turquoise water accessed by a ladder.
Opposite the pool, visitors can find Fagaoneone beach and a lava field with blowholes and mini pools, perfect for fishing. Whale sightings are also possible from mid-September to November.
The entrance fee is currently 20 WST for adults and 10 WST for children. The fee helps to support the local community and to maintain the trench.
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.
Moody Dramatic and Stunning – Milford Sound is simply stunning. Milford Sound offers what is probably the most spectacular fiord scenery in the southern hemisphere, and the well-known and striking views of Mitre Peak from the head of the fiord form the subject of innumerable paintings, postcards, posters, and pictorial postage stamps. Whatever the fiord’s mood, teeming with rain or with sun glistening on deep water, it will inspire you.
Wanaka Town is located on the southern shores of Lake Wanaka, embraced by the Southern Alps, Wanaka is Otago’s second resort town after Queenstown. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Wanaka, New Zealand’s fourth largest lake, reflect the snow-capped peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park. Here you can absorb the unstoppable beauty of pristine wilderness and know that it will be easy to find a great restaurant for dinner. The township of Wanaka is a magnet for visitors who want to find the perfect combination of outdoor adventure and indoor luxury.
Franz Josef village is small (only 500 locals) and is located only ten minutes from the Glacier. The Franz Josef is a glacier located in Westland National Park on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island. Together with the Fox Glacier 20 km to the south it is a unique in the fact that it descends from the Southern Alps to just 200 metres above sea level amidst the greenery and lushness of a temperate rainforest. The glacier is currently 12 kilometres long and terminates 19 km from the Tasman Sea. The glacier exhibits a cyclic pattern of advance and retreat, driven by differences between the volume of meltwater at the foot of the glacier and volume of snowfall feeding the neve.
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.
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!
Blenheim lies in the center of Marlborough, a wine-growing region, and is among the sunniest towns in New Zealand, with an annual average of 2,438 hours of sunshine. The mountains around the area enclose it and capture the summer warmth, resulting in temperatures over 30°C being common in February and March. Blenheim is home to various coffee shops, restaurants, vineyards, bars, stores, artisan food vendors, and golf courses, as well as the popular walkways along the Taylor River Reserve, and the steeper Wither Hills Walkway.
With flat open geography it is ideal for cycling. Nearby is Picton at the very tip of the South Island where the Interislander ferry departs. There are many pleasant day cruises available through the Marlborough Sounds and the Queen Charlotte Track making it a year round popular location.
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.
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.
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.
Escape to the tropical paradise of Upolu, Samoa, where azure waters meet lush rainforests, and warm hospitality welcomes you to an unforgettable holiday. Begin your adventure by unwinding on pristine beaches, where the soft, white sand beckons for lazy sunbathing and the clear waters invite you to snorkel among vibrant coral reefs.
Immerse yourself in Polynesian culture by visiting traditional villages, where you can witness captivating dances and savor authentic Samoan cuisine.
For adventure seekers, Upolu offers thrilling activities like hiking to the cascading waterfalls of Papapapaitai Falls, exploring lush jungle trails to reach the dramatic To Sua Ocean Trench, or riding the waves at some of the world’s best surf spots.
History buffs will be captivated by the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, a glimpse into the life of the famous author who found solace in Samoa. And don’t miss the chance to soak in natural wonders like the Piula Cave Pool or the rejuvenating waters of the Alofaaga Blowholes.
Experience the harmony of nature and culture on this enchanting island, where the warm smiles of the Samoan people will leave you with cherished memories. Book your holiday to Upolu today for an escape that promises relaxation, adventure, and cultural enrichment.
Here is a list of activities to enjoy while visiting Upolu, Samoa:
Upolu, Samoa, offers a diverse range of activities for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those interested in immersing themselves in Polynesian culture.
