Part of the First Light Travel Group
South Pacific Specialists
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Discover the highlights of New Zealand's North Island and South Island. Flying saves you time, so you can experience both islands and six cities in just 10 days. Enjoy Auckland's beautiful harbour, Rotorua's geysers and hot pools, and Wellington, our creative capital city. Hop over to the South Island for Nelson, the Abel Tasman National Park beaches, the Southern Alps, and Christchurch. Finish your journey at Queenstown, the home of adventure.
Duration: 12 Days
Starts: Auckland
Finishes: Queenstown
Artists and free-spirits mingle with the rich and famous on blissful Waiheke Island.
Land in Auckland where a short ferry ride transports you to one of New Zealand’s favourite getaway spots: Waiheke Island.
Artists and free-spirits mingle with the rich and famous on this blissful island: it’s a haven of beautiful beaches, gastronomical treasures and small wineries. Waiheke Island is to Auckland as the Hamptons are to New York – the former being on a much smaller scale. Home to beautiful beaches and a friendly village atmosphere, Waiheke Island produces outstanding, award-winning wines.
2 Nights at The Boatshed
Join a local wine aficionado for exclusive behind-the-scenes access to Waiheke's premier wine producers.
Join a local wine aficionado for exclusive behind-the-scenes access to Waiheke’s premier wine producers…
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.
Bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers and natural hot springs and fascinating Maori culture
After a quick 45-minute flight land in Rotorua. Sitting squarely on the Pacific Ring of Fire, Rotorua’s landscape is unique: arriving here is like landing on the moon!
This is Earth’s crust at its most exciting. Giant geysers rocket into the air and colourful sulphur terraces hiss and boil. But Rotorua is about much more than boiling mud. Boasting ancient forests, pristine lakes and rugged volcanoes, it’s a haven for outdoor and adventure lovers hikers and mountain bikers.
It’s also a great place to immerse yourselves in the history and tikanga (culture) of Maori, the First People of New Zealand.
2 Nights at Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland & Maori Cultural Evening, Village, Hangi & Music
Today with your private driver you will visit Rotorua’s most natural and popular geothermal parks: Wai O Tapu and Waimamgu Volcanic Valley. You will see volcanoes, geysers, New Zealand’s largest boiling mud pool mud pools and hot springs. The two parks offer a variety of thermal activity: at Wai O Tapu, the colourful hot springs are the key features along with the famous Lady Knox geyser; at Waimangu Volcanic Valley, you will learn about the history and legends of the great eruption of Mt Tarawera which blew open this now spectacular, bush covered, geothermal park. To bring the story alive, you will visit The Buried Village, which is the site of a former Maori village, destroyed during the Tarawera volcanic eruption.
Maori Cultural Evening – Tū Te Rā – Maori Summer Harvest Feast
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. 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.
Famous for a vibrant creative culture it's “the coolest little capital in the world” - by Lonely Planet.
A short flight from Rotorua brings you to New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington. Situated at the southern end of the North Island, Wellington, New Zealand, was recently named “the coolest little capital in the world” by Lonely Planet.
Wellington’s inner heart beats with an amazing cultural offering all of its own. As New Zealand’s capital, you’d be forgiven for thinking that the city is all political banter and suits. However, this microcosm of creatives is actually a place where artistry, quirkiness and creative risk taking are celebrated within one of the richest arts environs in the southern hemisphere. Best of all, you can walk anywhere in the inner city in around twenty minutes, tops. On any given night, you’ll find something happening, whether it’s a poetry reading, a new art showing, book launch, gig or interpretive theatre piece.
For foodies, Wellington is a city brimming with colourful eateries, vibrant markets and tasty laneways. World-renowned for excellent coffee and award-winning restaurants, this is one city that has it all.
A Couple of musts…
1 night at Intercontinental Hotel Wellington
Nelson's is all about art, coastal landscapes and tasting trails
2 nights at Pihopa Retreat
Abel Tasman National Park is renowned for its golden beaches, sculptured granite cliffs, and its world-famous coast track.
Today you have a choice of a full Scenic Cruise or a cruise and walk from Marahau along the stunning Abel Tasman coastline. Abel Tasman National Park is our country’s smallest national park. It protects 23,000 hectares of the most natural stretch of easily accessible coastline in New Zealand. The coastline is characterised by islands just offshore, sheltered waters, estuaries and golden, sandy beaches.
Lie on a beach, or even go for a swim if the weather is warm. The park is sheltered from ocean swells, and enjoys a mild climate.
Approximate Distance: 52 km to Kaiteriteri
Total Driving Time: 1 hour
Christchurch - The Garden City
Enjoy a scenic quick 50-minute flight from Nelson to Christchurch. Christchurch is New Zealand’s second-largest city and the South Island’s capital. Bordered by the Pacific Ocean, Christchurch is our “Garden City”, blessed with beautiful parks and gardens right in the heart of town. English heritage buildings sit side by side with innovative post-earthquake regeneration in this vibrant place.
This afternoon why not relax with a punting trip down the Avon River? Gliding gently along in a flat-bottomed boat, you will take in Christchurch’s ‘must-see’ historic attractions and botanic gardens away from the hustle and bustle of the streets.
Make the most of your evening by exploring Christchurch’s foodie scene. With everything from relaxed cafes to fine dining on offer, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect spot.
Visit the picturesque harbourside village and take a nature cruise
Take a private day tour to Akaroa, the only settlement attempted by the French in New Zealand, passes through the beautiful landscapes of the Banks Peninsula. Your journey will lie through the beautiful Banks Peninsula on a high summit route which gives glorious views of farmlands, Akaroa Harbour. From the main wharf in Akaroa boats depart for your Nature Cruise, you may see Hectors Dolphins, little blue penguins, NZ fur seals and local bird life. You will have an opportunity to wander around the charming 175 year old French harbour side village of Akaroa with its museum of settlers’ history, art and craft shops and studios before enjoying lunch at an award winning cafe.
Queenstown is the ultimate alpine resort
Fly from Christchurch to Queenstown 55 Minutes. The flight itself is exceptional particularly as you descend into the steeped mountain walled approach – a highlight flight in New Zealand. The alpine resort of Queenstown is exciting, sophisticated, and fantastically scenic. It’s the place to source almost any kind of adventure including bungy jumping, jet boating, horse trekking, rafting, and river surfing. It’s also a destination for luxury experiences – gourmet food and wine, spa treatments, and leisurely games of golf.
For the most engaging way to experience the riches of Fiordland National Park.
For the most engaging way to experience the riches of Fiordland National Park. This option includes three modes of transport (land, sea & air) making this the ‘holy grail’ of combination tours.
Coach: Board a luxury coach for a journey into beautiful Fiordland. The Road to Milford is one of New Zealand’s most scenic drives. The first part is relatively mild farmland, and then you’ll ease into a beech forest near the entrance to the Fiordland National Park. Look for the Avenue of the Disappearing Mountain and the Mirror Lakes and through the rough-hewn Homer Tunnel to Milford Sound.
Cruise: Enjoy a scenic cruise of the entire length of Milford Sound viewing the spectacular waterfalls and famous Mitre Peak. Grand, brooding, serene and wild, Milford Sound draws visitors from all over the globe to cruise its length. The purpose-built cruise boat offers excellent viewing of waterfalls, rainforest, mountains, and wildlife with large windows, spacious decks, and comfortable lounges.
Fly: Experience the “Absolutely Stunning” scenery as you fly over Sutherland Falls and over beautiful Milford Sound and lakes Te Anau and Lake Manapouri on your way back to Queenstown.
Wake up in Milford Sound before returning to Queenstown airport for your onward flight
What a way to end your travels in New Zealand. Wake up to the Sounds of Silence in Milford Sound. Enjoy breakfast before taking your scenic flight back to Queenstown ready for your onward travel.
Not quite ready to end your wonderful travels? Speak to one of our Travel Designers about incorporating a stopover in the Pacific or Australia on your way home.
“This is a comprehensive trip to both the South and North Island, leaving out the driving but missing nothing of the highlights. With time for day trips to Waiheke Island, the french settlers' Akaroa Peninsula, sunny Nelson, and spectacular Fiordland - all in all a great itinerary...”
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.
Our team has access to the most unique accommodation, superb activities, and flight specials. Contact us for a personalised experience.
Christchurch to Kerikeri
Hawkes Bay to Queenstown
Auckland to Christchurch
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Chic luxury Waiheke accommodation, sitting just above the sun-drenched bay and white sandy beaches of Oneroa, a hip small luxury hotel in the true sense Its casual and elegant atmosphere working in perfect harmony with its seaside location.
The Boatshed luxury boutique hotel is just a 35 minute by ferry from New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland, or 10 minutes by helicopter from Auckland. Five minutes stroll to the local Oneroa shopping & markets – three minutes to the beach.
Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel cares about adding value beyond a room to rest your head. Their philosophy is about distinction and sharing the New Zealand story with you. All this in a setting of authentic luxury where everything you touch in these exquisite rooms is of the highest standard. The one acre of grounds includes rose gardens, sweeping lawns, swimming pool, secret grotto, sandy beach, private jetty, and nine guest rooms.
Adjacent to Wellington’s waterfront, InterContinental Wellington is the most centrally-located and experienced global five-star hotel in New Zealand’s capital city. It is the seamless and personal service of the team that makes your Wellington accommodation and travel experience truly memorable. Guests can spend time with the award-winning concierge team whose tips and insider knowledge help travellers discover the arts, events, shopping, and culinary cultures surrounding the hotel.
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.
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.
In this tour you will visit Rotorua’s most natural and popular geothermal parks: Wai O Tapu and Waimamgu Volcanic Valley. You will see volcanoes, geysers, New Zealand’s largest boiling mud pool mud pools and hot springs. The two parks offer a variety of thermal activity: at Wai O Tapu, the colourful hot springs are the key features along with the famous Lady Knox geyser; at Waimangu Volcanic Valley, you will learn about the history and legends of the great eruption of Mt Tarawera which blew open this now spectacular, bush covered, geothermal park. To bring the story alive, you will visit The Buried Village, which is the site of a former Maori village, destroyed during the Tarawera volcanic eruption.
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.
You have a choice of a full scenic cruise or a cruise and walk from Marahau along the stunning Abel Tasman coastline. Abel Tasman National Park is our country’s smallest national park. It protects 23,000 hectares of the most natural stretch of easily accessible coastline in New Zealand. The coastline is characterised by islands just offshore, sheltered waters, estuaries and golden, sandy beaches.
Lie on a beach, or even go for a swim if the weather is warm. The park is sheltered from ocean swells, and enjoys a mild climate.
When the day visitors depart a silence descends… An overnight cruise amidst spectacular Milford Sound is a “once in a lifetime” experience. Cruise the full length of spectacular Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea before anchoring for the night in sheltered Harrison Cove. Go exploring with our nature guide in the tender craft and kayaks. Then enjoy a delicious evening buffet meal in the spacious dining saloon, before retiring to your cabin. The Milford Mariner offers a very special dinner/Bed & Breakfast experience. Private cabins with ensuite bathroom are provided.
Scenic flight transfers are available by fixed wing or Helicopter. If you prefer the scenic drive then we can arrange a driver from Queenstown.
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.
Just 35 minutes by ferry from Auckland, across the beautiful Hauraki Gulf, Waiheke Island seems a million miles away in pace and beauty. Waiheke has a special charm and seaside holiday atmosphere. Waiheke Island is an eclectic mix of cultures, activities, vineyards, cafes, restaurants, art galleries, beautiful beaches, scenic walking tracks and much, much more. It’s a perfect relaxing start or finish to your New Zealand vacation. There are many outdoor activities and plenty to see and do, no matter what your interests or energy levels.
Arrive in Waiheke by passenger ferry, car ferry or by air with flights direct from Auckland Domestic Airport, or by helicopter from City Heliport at Mechanics Bay
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.
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.
Nestled between a dramatic harbour and bush clad hills, Wellington was recently dubbed as ‘the coolest little capital city in the world’. The city is the country’s centre for culture, politics, and home to the National Museum, Te Papa.
Surrounded by nature and fuelled by creative energy, Wellington is a compact city with a powerful mix of culture, history, nature and cuisine. Fuel your visit with strong coffee and world-class craft beer – Wellingtonians are masters of casual dining, with plenty of great restaurants, night markets and food trucks.
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.
Akaroa (Long Harbour) was the site of the country’s first French settlement and descendants of the original French pioneers still reside here. It’s a charming town that strives to recreate the feel of a French provincial village, down to the names of its streets and houses.
Take a scenic cruise exploring the beautiful, sheltered harbours. You’ll experience a rich variety of marine life including the unique and playful Hector’s Dolphin and the rare Little Blue Penguin.
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.