DAY ONE

Arrive Auckland – Queenstown. On arrival in Auckland you will be met by your SEASONZ Travel Representative and
escorted to the Domestic Terminal for your scheduled flight to Queenstown.

Queenstown is located near the bottom of the South Island and has become world famous for its scenery since the release of the Lord of the Rings Trilogy – many of the scenes were shot in the surrounding vast, butter9coloured landscapes.

The region is popular all year round and known as the Adventure Capital of New Zealand.  Queenstown offers a variety of activities, yet also presents a wonderful haven in which to relax.
 

Upon arrival you will be met by your local ACE Travel guide for transfer to your hotel, en-route enjoying an orientation tour
of Queenstown.

There is an opportunity for those wanting to Tandem Paraglide to take the Skyline Gondola cable car ride to Bob’s Peak where you will have spectacular views over Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu. Your paraglide flight takes you over a pine forest, practically skimming the top of the tall pine trees, the ground then drops dramatically away exposing you to 2500 feet of breathtaking views beneath you. A great welcome to the adventure capital!

This evening we recommend dinner at The Bunker Restaurant. The discreet exterior of this favorite Queenstown establishment belies an intoxicating mix of fine dining downstairs with a private cocktail lounge upstairs, complete with open log fires, ambient music and leather couches to sink into until the wee small hours.

DAY TWO
Queenstown

Today is at your leisure, or perhaps choose from one of the following recommended optional activities:
 

Sam Summer’s Hut Walk Walk: Take a guided walk through spectacular Central Otago scenery to Sam Summer’s Hut, an old stone hut dating back to the early gold9mining settlers. This 5 kilometre (3.1 mile) hike offers magnificent views of the surrounding countryside amidst plentiful native birdlife. The track climbs through Mountain Beech Forest and winds
high above Twelve Mile Creek Gorge.

Clarke Glacier Odyssey Odyssey: Lush, green rainforest cloaks the land between the Alps and the shore on the West Coast of New Zealand. This unique expanse of virgin native forest contrasts darkly against the sparkling white backdrop of the Southern Alps, just a few minutes away. A helicopter flight brings it all so very close. Take off on a scenic ride past spectacular mountains, icefalls, rivers and lakes before landing on Clarke Glacier in the Southern Alps.

Walk among ice pinnacles, glacial lakes, deep blue crevasses and cascading waterfalls. Take time to throw a snowball or two before heading back home. Lord of the Rings Sites 4WD Safari: Depart this morning on a private safari by four wheel drive vehicle into Skippers Canyon with your local guide. This road was hewn out of rock with pick and shovels over a period of 10 years by men, bitten with gold fever in the 1880's.

High above Queenstown the road traverses the Skippers Saddle, affording stunning views of heartland New Zealand. Each hairpin bend affords a new and more impressive vista as you wind along this ribbon road, as the mighty Shotover rushes below. Drive across the spectacular Skippers suspension bridge built in the 1900’s, to the old township of Skippers.
 

Cast a Line: Take advantage of the excellent fly-fishing waters in New Zealand as you drink in some magnificent scenery – majestic mountains, beech forest, and crystal-clear rivers and streams – stalking sighted brown and rainbow trout. Transfer by helicopter to a premium fly9fishing area, where you’ll see mile after mile of pristine river without an angler in sight. Your knowledgeable guide will help you get the most out of your experience, as you learn new tricks and swap old stories.
 

Tonight enjoy dinner at Bezu. Bezu is a distinctive Euro bar and restaurant offering an unparalleled wining, dining, cocktail and entertainment experience.

DAY THREE
Queenstown to Glenorchy

Today you will experience the Milford Sound Helicopter Excursion. You will see mountains gliding by as your helicopter winds its way through the Southern Alps on an unforgettable flight to Milford Sound. This breathtaking flight takes you over secluded alpine lakes, lush rainforest, through deep bush9-fringed valleys and past rugged mountain peaks. Land, take a stroll and absorb the natural beauty of Fiordland.

Your flight then sweeps the full length of the fiord until you reach the rugged West Coast offering a unique opportunity to view seals in their natural colonies. Experience a glacier landing before touching down at one of our secret wilderness sites for some special hospitality including Champagne and cheese board. Today’s flight is three and a half hours in duration and is truly a New Zealand highlight!
Your flight concludes with a landing at Blanket Bay Lodge, your next luxury experience. 

This afternoon is at your leisure, to relax and enjoy the surroundings or you may want to check out Blanket Bay’s
ultimate bliss Spa Treatments.

DAY FOUR
Glenorchy

This morning you will depart the Lodge to experience the untouched wilderness of New Zealand’s Southern Alps, normally only seen by hikers or from the air, during this adventurous excursion suited for all ages. A short private vehicle transfer takes you to the home base for Dart River Safaris, wh ere you will board a state of the art, super high-speed jet boat for a thrilling 75 minute ride up the river through some of New Zealand’s most scenic canyons.

Next, you’ll enjoy a slight slower pace (but equally fun), as you explore the river in “funyaks”, rubber three-seat canoes that
are stable and relatively easy to manoeuvre.

Enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the wilderness as you canoe through turquoise water, finally reaching the Rock Burn Chasm, a natural marvel that you have to see to believe. Have a wonderful riverside lunch before hopping back into the jet boats and heading back to base camp. This is a fantastic adventure, loaded with thrills, natural history, scenic beauty and shared experiences.

DAY FIVE
Glenorchy – Wanaka
 

This morning your private guide will meet you at the lodge to transfer you to Wanaka.  Wanaka is situated at the southern end of Lake Wanaka. It is the gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park. It was originally settled during the gold rush excitement in the 19th century. Nearby are Treble Cone and Cardrona, two of New Zealand's premier ski fields.

DAY SIX
Wanaka
 

High in New Zealand's Southern Alps, on the edge of the Mt Aspiring National Park, lies a unique alpine escape  Whare Kea Chalet - luxury where you would least expect to find it.

This morning make your way to the Chalet by helicopter. Enjoy a guided alpine walk followed by a gourmet picnic surrounded by the vista of high rocky mountains, glaciers, residual snow fields and alpine meadows.  After a glorious day settle back to enjoy a glass of champagne in the evening alpen glow followed by a delicious Whare Kea dinner.

DAY SEVEN
Wanaka - Nelson
 

This morning you will depart your chalet and be transferred to Queenstown Airport for your departing flight to Nelson.
On arrival into Nelson, your local ACE' representative will be there to meet you and will continue with a guided tour through the region, famous for its arts and crafts, and wine. Highlights include a visit to the workshop at Höglund Glass, where you can watch craftsmen blow exquisite colored vases and vessels. You’ll also visit the World of Wearable Arts gallery where you’ll see the outlandish fashion garments created over the past five years of this national fashion competition.

There are also gallery visits and private viewings with local artists on the agenda. Lunch will be at one of our favorite seaside restaurants or wineries. Your tour concludes today at The Lodge at Paratiho Farms.

DAY EIGHT
Nelson
 

This morning you will set off with your guide for your Private Helicopter & Boating Excursion of the Abel Tasman National Park Park. Your boat departs Kaiteriteri Beach for the golden sand coastline of Abel Tasman National Park. On this leisurely trip through the park you will experience some of the most magnificent coastline that New Zealand has to offer, where native bush meets golden sands and crystal clear waters are a play ground for birds, seals and dolphins.

Set in native bush, Awaroa is an idyllic place of peace and natural beauty. You'll have time to sit back and soak up the sun on the golden beach, and enjoy a delicious picnic. You will return to the lodge today by helicopter along the golden sand beaches of the Abel Tasman coastline.

DAY NINE
Nelson – Hawkes Bay

Depart the Lodge this morning with your guide to the Nelson Airport for your flight to Hawkes Bay.  Napier and her sister city Hastings are located in Hawkes Bay, a gentrified coastal bowl of market gardens, rich orchards and vineyards. Vines were
first planted in 1850 by a French Catholic mission, and climate is similar to that in the best grape growing areas of Europe.

Napier owes its distinctive Art Deco appearance to a disastrous earthquake that shook the area in 1931 and almost completely destroyed the city.
Your ACE' guide will meet you at the Napier Airport and transfer you to Black Barn, your own personal retreat. Once you have had time to settle in, you will set off with your guide on a Personalized Winery Excursion Excursion. This is a unique personal encounter with the wines and people of Hawke’s Bay.

Here is your chance to explore the wine making process from ‘grape to glass’ in this world renowned wine region of New Zealand.

Meet the local personalities behind the wines and sample the wonderful wines from the region this afternoon.

Your tour is completely up to you and your tastes.

DAY TEN
Hawkes Bay
 

This morning you will enjoy a Ballooning allooning Experience xperience over the Hawkes Bay Bay. Hawkes Bay is the perfect region for ballooning with wide open spaces of farmlands, orchards, vineyards and a picturesque mountain background. It has mild climate with low rainfall and many hours of sunshine. Your flight will take place in the early morning within the first few hours of sunrise.

This afternoon is at your leisure in which you may like to enjoy, a round of ound golf at Cape Kidnappers olf Kidnappers. 

A simply stunning Tom Doak designed golf course.

This is the sister course to Kauri Cliffs in the Bay of Islands.

Opened in 2004 the course is 6588m long and has a par of 71. 

The goal in designing the course was to create interesting holes you wouldn't find anywhere else.

That wasn't hard to do at Cape Kidnappers, because the site is not like anywhere else in golf.

It's an overwhelming experience to stand up on the cliffs, 140 meters above sea level, and look out across the waves far below in Hawke s Bay.

DAY ELEVEN

Hawkes Bay – Taupo

After a leisurely breakfast your ACE' guide will transfer you by private vehicle across the North Island to Taupo. A journey of approximately 2 hours.

This region enjoys a stunning location on the shores of Lake Taupo, looking out across to the Central Plateau mountain range. The lake, which was formed through a massive eruption thousands of years ago, is the largest in the country and is located in the centre of the North Island.  The town sits on an underground thermal belt, which results in boiling mud, steam and geysers north of Taupo at Wairakei Park and Orakei Korako. The region is also known for its naturally occurring hot-water-pools. Another famous attraction is the jawding Huka Falls on the Waikato River.

This afternoon we recommend a 192 hour Nature Walk Walk. The history of this volcanic region combined with stunning scenery, a huge lake and strong Maori culture makes it one of New Zealand’s most interesting reas for walking and hiking. Go on a scenic journey through native forests, geothermal and volcanic areas, river tracks and historical locations. Native bush, birds and diversity of terrain provide a great eco-experience.

DAY TWELVE
Taupo

Today you will experience the tranquillity and beauty of Lake Tarawera with a Private luxuryCruise Cruise. You will also explore the regions Volcanic area by private helicopter. A 10minute drive to the marina will find you boarding a float plane
and soaring high over Lake Taupo to Lake Tarawera, where a boat will be waiting for you.  Lake Tarawera lies at the foot of majestic Mount Tarawera, a dormant volcano that erupted in 1886, destroying the area’s world9famous pink and white terraces.

Visit historic sights around the lakeshore. Stop at Hot Water Beach for a swim in the thermal water while your skipper prepares a sumptuous meal for you to enjoy on board.  The majestic backdrop of a dormant volcano, naturally heated thermal waters and unspoiled flora and fauna provide a beautiful setting to experience all that this powerful and magical part of New Zealand has to offer. Today’s cruise is three hours in duration.

At the conclusion of your cruise this morning aboard your helicopter and head out to White Island on a Volcanic Safari Safari. You will take in views of lakes, forest and a volcanic fault line. You land for approximately one hour and trek up to the crater through remains of sulphur works, boiling water, crystallized sulphur and much more. On the return flight watch for dolphins and school fish on the surface and fly over Mt Tarawera. This evening enjoy dining on the Front Terrace of Huka Lodge.
 

DAY THIRTEEN
Taupo – Bay of Islands

Depart the lodge this morning and transfer to the Taupo Airport for your scheduled flight to Kerikeri in the Bay of Islands.
On arrival into Kerikeri you will be met by your ACE' Travel representative and transferred by private vehicle to Kauri Cliffs Lodge, a journey of approximately 30 minutes.

Classed as the only subtropical area of New Zealand, the Bay of Islands is at the top of the North Island. There are 144 islands in the area, which provides calm sailing, swimming and fishing waters.

Apart from the on-water activities there are sandy, golden beaches, native forests and historical attractions in this region – the best known being the Waitangi grounds. This is where the indigenous Maori chiefs signed the Treaty of Waitangi with the English settlers back in 1840 – this document joined the two peoples together as a nation.

This afternoon is at your leisure at the lodge or we recommend taking a gentle stroll along one of Kauri Cliff’s three private beaches or to the property’s own waterfall.   Or you may want to enjoy a round of golf.

DAY FOURTEEN
Bay of Islands
Today you will Explore the Bay of Islands on a Private Luxury Motor Launch Launch. The Bay of Islands is the finest Maritime Park in New Zealand with 144 islands, secluded bays and an abundance of wildlife including dolphins, penguins, whales, gannets and many other species.

You will travel by private vehicle to Doves Bay, where you will board a private sailing boat for your cruise through the islands.

Your hosts will stop in secluded bays for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking or simply sit back with a glass of wine and take in the scenery. You can even try your hand at a spot of fishing. Lunch and refreshments will be served on board today.

This evening enjoy a Barbecue at Pink Beach arbecue Beach. Fresh grilled seafood, lamb and local produce partnered with New Zealand wines and sea air create an experience not to be missed. Transport to and from the beach will be provided.

For those who prefer to walk, the trek is 35 minutes via the golf course and trail near the 6th green. Walking shoes or sneakers are advised.

DAY FIFTEEN
Bay of Islands

Today is at your leisure, or you may like to enjoy one of the following recommended activities:
 

Omata Estate Vineyards Vineyards: Take off from the lodge by helicopter for your 30 minute scenic flight over the stunning Bay of Islands, taking in the famous “Hole in the Rock” before landing at Omata Estate, a beautiful vineyard tucked away near Russell.

Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch in the vineyard’s restaurant, an immensely popular spot serving some of New Zealand’s finest cuisine.

After lunch, you’ll get a tour of the vineyard, where the grapes used in rich, full-bodied wines such as Syrah, Chardonnay and Merlot are grown. Learn about the vineyard’s history and taste some of its best vintages. End your day with a leisurely private
vehicle transfer back to the lodge.

Sea Kayaking Kayaking: There is no better way to explore this sub-tropical paradise than by sea kayak. You’ll depart from the Kauri Cliffs and transfer to the nearby picturesque Taupo Bay where with a private guide you will enjoy a two hour sea paddling adventure, through pristine waters and along this stunning coastline. Your guide will tailor your adventure to be as gentle or as challenging as you like.

Horse Riding Riding: A unique and exhilarating way to see the Bay of Islands is on horse back. Enjoy untouched locations rarely accessible atop one of our beautifully groomed horses. Soak up the beauty and tranquility of the area riding amidst 40km of trails on 5000 acres of bush, river, beach and farm land. From beginners to the advanced there are options aplenty and horses to match. Stop and enjoy refreshments on a deserted beach or gallop through pastures and bush clad tracks. The choice is yours!

Quad Bike & Sand Boarding Adventure: Quad bike through Gumfields, where 100 years ago Dalmation and Maori toiled side by side to extract the resin left in the ground from these ancient forests, and forage for your own gum. See breathtaking panoramic views out over Ninety Mile Beach before your exhilarating decent through the huge sand dunes. Enjoy a 10km ride along white beaches and over reefs, stopping to enjoy the thrill of sand boarding at one of these large and steep dunes!
 

Fishing on Waiaua Beach Beach: Fishing is a way of life on New Zealand’s northern coast, and this adventure hooks you up with a local legend, known throughout the area simply as “Des.” Begin with a wonderful walk up the scenic coast to Waiaua
Beach, listening to Des’ tall tales of adventure fishing along the way. You’ll marvel at the outrageous beauty and serenity of Waiaua Beach. Des will give you tips on beach fishing and will assist you as you cast out to sea. If you’re lucky, you may hook a snapper or kahawai (similar to a blue fish). And if the enticing waters are simply too much to resist, you can take a swim out to one of the tiny islands just off the shore.  At the end of the offsite, a 4WD vehicle will take you back to the lodge.

Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach by Helicopter Helicopter: You will be collected from Kauri Cliffs by helicopter and fly over Northland’s spectacular coast and Ninety-Mile Beach. Your flight you up to Cape Reinga Lighthouse, which is situated at the tip of New Zealand where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. On the way you will pass by tranquil, remote beaches, clear streams and giant sand dunes.

During your flight back to Kauri Cliffs you will enjoy spectacular views over Parengarenga Harbor and Great Exhibition Bay. You have the option to stop at a private beach for a stroll in one of the most remote and beautiful places in New Zealand. A gourmet picnic lunch and refreshments are provided.
 

DAY SIXTEEN
Depart Bay of Islands, New Zealand
 

Mid Morning with your guide you will be transferred to Kerikeri Airport for your departing flight to Auckland.

Eichardt’s Private Hotel, Queenstown

Eichardt's Private Hotel, situated in the heart of Queenstown on the lakefront, is an impeccably restored heritage building with an interior that looks like it has come from the pages of a magazine. This boutique hotel was recently voted the best boutique hotel in Australasia by Andrew Harper's Hideaway Report, and it is not surprising considering the hotel's opulent interior 9 complete with open fires, antique furniture and stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range.
 

Blanket Bay Lodge, Queenstown

Built in the grand style of the finest alpine lodges, Blanket Bay looks just as impressive from the banks of Lake Wakatipu as it does inside. With its high wooden studs, shiest stonework and deep sofas, this cosy lodge will make anyone feel at home. The most impressive part about Blanket Bay is its position at the foot of the mountains that are the gateway to Milford National Park, one of the largest and most diverse national parks in the country. The activities available at this lodge are unsurpassable helicopter rides across the park to visit seal colonies, champagne on a glacier, heli-skiing and hiking, fly fishing and jet boating – it is all right at your doorstep.

The lodge is intimate and can accommodate 22 guests in their range of suites and two villas.  Dine outside next to the outdoor
fireplace or cosy up in the wine cellar. Blanket Bay is only a 45 minute drive from Queenstown, or a ten minute chopper ride from the airport.   Guests can enjoy the nearby restaurants and bars in the evenings and during the day you're just a stone's throw from hikes, golfing on internationally renowned golf courses, jet boating and skiing.

Whare Kea Lodge, Wanaka
 

Amongst the mountains of New Zealand's spectacular Southern Alps and on the shore of glacial Lake Wanaka lies a private alpine haven Whare Kea Lodge.  Summer or winter at Whare Kea is the perfect hideaway or base for outdoor activities. Designed to capture the setting's unique feeling of space and light, Whare Kea appears to float above the water allowing guests to enjoy the magnificent vistas in an intimate atmosphere.  Beautiful lakeside walks start right at the front door. Spring and autumn are best for trout and salmon fishing in the surrounding lakes and mountain rivers. The region boasts three spectacular golf courses. At the end of the day indulge with a massage or just relax with a drink in the spa overlooking the lake.
Then enjoy dinner where the chef hand-picks the freshest and best produce, cooks it simply and presents it superbly. After
dinner play snooker in the games room or simply lounge by the fire.
 

The Lodge at Paratiho Farms, Nelson

The Lodge at Paratiho Farms is just 45 minutes drive from Nelson in the South Island. This luxurious retreat has been furnished with treasured antiques and possessions collected from around the world, a love of art and sculpture is apparent from the moment you reach the driveway to this beautiful lodge. Sculptures and artworks are dotted around the landscaped grounds and throughout the lodge, the result of 40 years of enthusiastic art collecting by the owners, who made Nelson their
home and built the lodge in the mid '90's.

Nestled in the centre of a 2000 acre working farm, with serene rural views, the Lodge at Paratiho Farms celebrates comfort, seclusion and wellbeing.  The owner’s vision of sharing an idyllic property in the golden Nelson landscape has been realized in a form that celebrates comfort, seclusion, and wellbeing.  There is also a fully equipped Pilates studio and a beauty spa on
site.

Taupo is the North Island's answer to Queenstown and Huka is simply the best lodge in the region.
 

Huka Lodge, Taupo

It’s been consistently voted as one of the best lodges in Australasia and this is where the Queen of England likes to rest her head when she's in the country.  Huka is one of the longest standing luxury lodges in New Zealand and it shows. Their level of service and attention to detail is immaculate, and the lodge's position alongside the emerald green Waikato River is as peaceful as it is beautiful.

The food at Huka is legendary; dine on the balcony overlooking the river, in the orchard, the wine cellar or beside the outdoor fireplace. The region offers trout fishing on Lake Taupo or fly-fishing up the many nearby rivers.

Black Kauri Cliffs, Bay of Islands
 

Already world famous for its breathtaking golf course on the east coast of sub tropical Northland, Kauri Cliffs has also forged a reputation for excellence in dining and luxury accommodation. The property has a variety of villas dotted along the golf course, each with its own private deck and views across the Pacific Ocean.

Obviously golf is a major draw card; however there are also three fabulous beaches, one a breathtaking pink shell beach, and all are safe for swimming. Likewise fishing charters shouldn’t be overlooked as the area boasts some of the finest game fishing in the country.
 

But the most incredible aspect of Kauri Cliffs is the position: pink sunsets that melt into the rolling farmland and across the Pacific Ocean are every day occurrences.