Best of New Zealand - in Style

 
Take four weeks to experience the best of New Zealand at leisure. Stay at boutique B&Bs and luxurious lodges on this self-drive tour that covers almost all of New Zealand’s National Parks and major cities. Enjoy fine food and generous hospitality in stylish surroundings.   16 5 3 4 2 1 17 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6   28 days
USD 5,019.001
EUR 3,689.00

Recommended
travel period:
January – May, September – December


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1st day: Christchurch

Arrival at Christchurch Airport
Flight - by own arrangement
   
 
Taxi from Airport to Accommodation - by own arrangement
In front of the arrival terminal, you can easily catch a taxi to get to your accommodation.
   
 
Neo-Georgian Building: Classic and Elegance
Neo-Georgian Building: Classic and Elegance

Heritage & Character Inn by the Park
This Heritage & Character Inn is a well known Christchurch landmark and was built in 1924 for George Weston, a prominent Christchurch lawyer. Described as the finest Neo-Georgian building in New Zealand, the house has been extensively restored and tastefully refurbished. Today the owners, Len and Stephanie, can offer two luxurious and elegant rooms to be found in the former servants' quarters. The rooms combine classical style and antiques with modern comfort and convenience. Guests are pampered with complimentary sherry, fruit and home baking, as well as fine New Zealand wines each evening before they venture out to dine! A courtesy vehicle is available for airport transfers and pickup's and dropoff's at Christchurch railway station for guests arriving or departing on the TranzAlpine Train. Situated on prestigious Park Terrace guests will find the Botanic Gardens, the city centre and most of its best restaurants to be an easy walk away.
   
2 nights
Bed & Breakfast
 
  Christchurch  more info »
 

2nd day: Christchurch

 
Rental car pick-up
Type: Compact Auto
Pick-up location: Christchurch, City/Downtown

   
duration of rental:
26 days
 
 

3rd day: Dunedin

 
passing the Moeraki Boulders
Distance: 36 0 km Travel t ime: 5 :00 h
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On Otago Peninsula: New Zealand\'s only Castle
On Otago Peninsula: New Zealand\'s only Castle

Lodge in the Grounds of a Castle
Situated on Otago Peninsula the lodge is set in the beautiful gardens and grounds of New Zealand's only castle. It was built in 1871 by William Larnach, merchant baron and politician, for his beloved first wife Eliza. Larnach spared no expense on his dream home, which features the finest materials from around the world such as marble from Italy, tiles from England, glass from France and slate from Wales. Today the castle, still privatly owned, showcases a unique collection of New Zealand antiques and fine dining for lodge guests. The twelve bedrooms built in a restored colonial farm building are individually decorated and offer spectacular views of the ocean a staggering 300 metres below. Guest of the lodge are invited on a complimentary tour of the castle during opening hours. The city of Dunedin and the peninsula's wildlife attractions can be reached within 20 minutes.
   
2 nights
Bed & Breakfast


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  Dunedin  more info »
 

5th day: Te Anau

 
towards Fiordland National Park
Distance: 290 km Travel time: 4:00 h
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stunning location & unique architecture: Lodge in Fiordland
stunning location & unique architecture: Lodge in Fiordland

Luxury Lodge overlooking Lake Te Anau
Located on the highway to Milford Sound, this luxury lodge offers the discerning traveller style, comfort and privacy, yet is only five kilometers from the tourist township of Te Anau. Forty acres of rolling grass lands surround the lodge. The open architecture of the lodge reflects the vastness of the Fiordland National Park. Echoes of the forest are found in the striking natural timber construction. The lodge's comfortable dining area serves excellent food coupled with superb wine from the cellar. The ten luxury guest rooms look out across Lake Te Anau. Complementing the ten luxury lodge rooms are two traditionally built log cabins, ideal for families or those who want more privacy, providing bed and breakfast and the option to dine in the lodge. The warm interiors of the log cabins feature extensive use of recycled native New Zealand timber. The lodge owners, Robynne & Ron, know the area well and are happy to arrange excursions to Milford and Doubtful Sounds, trout fishing, escorted golf tours, horse riding, sea or lake kayaking, hiking, nature walks, alpine flower tours in the summer, bird watching, or glow worm cave tours for their guests.
   
1 night
Dinner, Bed & Breakfast


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  Fiordland National Park  more info »
 

6th day: Te Anau

 
Overnight Cuise on Doubtful Sound  Real Journeys
Overnight Cuise on Doubtful Sound Real Journeys

Overnight Cruise on Doubtful Sound
Known for its wilderness, peacefulness and wildllife, Doubtful Sound is the second largest of the 14 fiords in Fiordland National Park and it is three times longer and 10 times larger than Milford Sound. Following a short cruise across beautiful Lake Manapouri and a coach trip over Wilmot Pass, one will board the vessel at Deep Cove, Doubtful Sound. The vessel, purpose built for cruising in the fiords, offers spacious viewing decks, a comfortable dining saloon, an observation lounge and private cabins with ensuite bathrooms. Apart from the stunning scenery, fur seals and bottlenose dolphins can often be admired, and at times, rare penguins can be observed. There is also time to kayak around the shoreline or go exploring in the tender craft with a nature guide. As the shadows lengthen, the crew will drop anchor at a favourite mooring for the night. A delicious evening buffet meal will then be served in the spacious dining saloon. The tour starts at Pearl Harbour in Manapouri just after midday, and finishes 24 hours later at the same place.
   
1 night
DBB with activities


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7th day: Queenstown

 
from Fiordland to Queenstown
Distance: 170 km Travel time: 2:00 h
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Boutique B&B elevated over Lake Wakatipu
Boutique B&B elevated over Lake Wakatipu

Boutique B&B elevated over Lake Wakatipu
This boutique B&B is an architecturally designed contemporary homestay, offering comfort, style and relaxation. Built in 1998, the house is elevated over the lake and from its rocky ledge, and from its dining room window one has a bird's eye view of Lake Wakatipu and a 280 degree panorama of surrounding mountains. Both guestrooms are tastefully decorated and open to a north facing stylish courtyard garden to capture the all-day sun. Hosts Derek and Margaret are friendly New Zealanders who clearly enjoy sharing their exciting home with visitors. The township of Queenstown is only a five minute drive away.
   
1 night
Bed & Breakfast


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  Queenstown  more info »
 

8th day: Wanaka

 
Over the Crown Range
Distance: 120 km Time: 1:30 h
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Country Lodge near Wanaka: elegant & comfortable
Country Lodge near Wanaka: elegant & comfortable

Boutique Lodge near Wanaka
Set on a 10-acre estate with uninterrupted mountain views and only eight minutes drive from Lake Wanaka, this boutique lodge offers accommodation for the discerning traveller. Four elegant guestrooms and two superior suites are available. French Doors open out to the garden from each room. Guests also have exclusive use of the stylish lounge and dining area, with its impressive open log schist fireplace. SKY TV; CD / DVD Player; CD, DVD and book libraries; high speed internet access, ski storage, a drying room, tea and coffee; fresh fruit and chilled mineral water are all on hand for guests to enjoy throughout their stay. Apart from offering a full breakfast, with buffet and cooked options, and complimentary aperitifs in the evening, Sally and Rebecca, the friendly lodge owners, are able to offer guests a 3 - 4 course dinner, featuring a seasonal menu and the best of Central Otago's fine wines. The grounds include a five-hole pitch and putt golf course, sheltered swimming pool as well as a relaxing spa pool, petanque and croquet. For the more adventurous, mountain bikes are available to explore the surrounding countryside.
   
2 nights
Bed & Breakfast


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  Wanaka  more info »
 

10th day: Lake Moeraki

 
across Haast Pass to the West Coast
Distance: 1 90 km Travel t ime: 3 : 0 0 h
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Lodge Surrounded by Ancient Rainforest
Lodge Surrounded by Ancient Rainforest

Lodge on Moeraki River
Located in the heart of the 2.7 million hectare South West New Zealand World Heritage Area, this unique lodge was set up in 1989 by Anne, a teacher, and Gerry, biologist and former director of New Zealand's largest environmental organisation, to help protect the rainforest and share this extraordinary natural setting with visitors. The lodge is landscaped in a lakeside clearing surrounded by 1000 year old rainforest trees. It offers a high level of comfort in attractive lodge rooms with lounges and a restaurant that overlook the lovely Moeraki rapids. Radiating from the lodge is a network of rainforest and Tasman seacoast walks. There is a fleet of canoes for guest to explore Lake Moeraki and the Moeraki river. Today, West Coasters Dorothy and Malcolm are the managers at Lake Moeraki and a team of enthusiastic guides will introduce lodge guests to crested penguins, fur seals, giant tame eels and New Zealand's unique birdlife and ancient forests.
   
2 nights
DBB with activities


Display route
 
  Lake Moeraki  more info »
 

12th day: Franz Josef Glacier

 
via Fox Glacier
Distance: 120 km Time: 2:00 h
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Lodge near Franz Josef Glacier: Lounge with Mountain Views
Lodge near Franz Josef Glacier: Lounge with Mountain Views

Lodge by the Glacier
Set in bush and farmlands with views of the mountains,this boutique lodge offers a warm and relaxed atmosphere in a quiet rural setting, just 2 km north of the Franz Josef village and only minutes from Franz Josef Glacier itself. The lodge is purpose built, crafted entirely from wood. Six of the suites have mountain views from the rooms and verandahs. Two have private courtyards, which catch all-day sun, and are planted with trees to encourage the native fantails, tuis, white-eyes and bellbirds.
   
1 night
Bed & Breakfast


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  Franz Josef Glacier  more info »
 

13th day: Greymouth

 
up the West Coast
Distance: 200 km Time: 3:00 h
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Country Homestead near Greymouth
Country Homestead near Greymouth

Country Homestead south of Greymouth
Only 10 minutes away from Hokitika and 20 minutes south of Greymouth, this peaceful and private coastal country retreat is set in extensive gardens featuring natives and conservation planting including traditional flax gardens. Guest will be warmly welcomed by the Te Rakau family at their colonial-style homestead, to experience wood stove warmth, a private outdoor spa and country cooking. Hosts Pauline & Hemi are happy to share their Maori and European cultural and historic knowledge of the site and the area. Accommodation comprises three ensuite bedrooms in the house as well as a separate self-contained apartment with a further two guestrooms. French doors open from all bedrooms onto the verandahs. Self-catering is optional for apartment guests. Free-range chickens provide farm-fresh eggs every day. Tours, such as scenic flights, hunting, fishing and bird-watching can be arranged. Award-winning cafés and the studios of greenstone, gold, wood, pottery and fibre artists can be visited nearby.
   
1 night
Bed & Breakfast


Display route
 
  Paparoa National Park  more info »
 

14th day: Motueka

 
Through the Buller Gorge
Distance: 320 km Travel time: 4:30 h
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close to Abel Tasman National Park: boutique lodge
close to Abel Tasman National Park: boutique lodge

Buotique Lodge nestled in Native Bush
On the doorstep of the beaches of Abel Tasman and the wilderness of Kahurangi National Parks, this boutique lodge is nestled in 50 acres of native bush close to the source of the Riwaka river. There are four spacious lodge rooms and two self-contained cottage suites; all have private balconies and spectacular views. Facilities include pool, spa and bush walks. This place is ideal for couples who enjoy nature, the outdoors & good food. Each evening, guests are invited to join their hosts, Clare & Peter for cocktails. A 4-course dinner prepared with fresh ingredients from one on New Zealand's most bountiful regions and accompanied by fine Nelson wines will follow. Clare and Peter. keen travellers themselves, lived and worked in the UK, France, Asia, US and Australaisia and returned to New Zealand in 2003 to start up the lodge. They offer friendly advice and help guests plan activities.
   
2 nights
Dinner, Bed & Breakfast


Display route
 
  Abel Tasman National Park  more info »
 

16th day: Picton

 
to Picton
 Distance : 150km Time : 2:30 h
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surrounded by vineyards: Lodge near Blenheim
surrounded by vineyards: Lodge near Blenheim

Boutique Lodge on a Working Vineyard
This small lodge offers fully hosted boutique B&B accommodation on a working vineyard with a difference. It is housed in a unique modern straw-bale building nestled amongst the Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir vines of Barrow's Vineyard. Situated on the world renowned wine producing river flats of the Wairau Valley. Nettie & Jane, the hosts provide home-cooked and fresh home-grown produce, a taste of wine from the vineyard and the option to be professionally guided or advised on individually designed wine, trekking, cycling, walking, fishing, skiing, discovery, craft or gourmet trails of Marlborough. Guests are accommodated away from the main house in three private suites, which have a quiet comfort that is accentuated by quality fittings and custom designed and hand crafted furniture. Each suite has its own private entrance and vineyard setting incorporating verandah, courtyard and lounge area. Guests have free use of the large out-door spa set amongst the vines, petanque area, BBQ courtyard, living area with open fire, separate guest's kitchen/dining area, garden/vineyard grounds, and complimentary use of the lodge's bikes to explore the neighbouring wineries, riverbanks, swimming holes and countryside. Two sets of golf clubs are available with some wonderful courses nearby. A generous breakfast is served in the mornings. Guests also have the option of joining their hosts for a full three course dinner with wine. Blenheim is only a 15-minute drive away.
   
2 nights
Bed & Breakfast


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  Blenheim  more info »
 

18th day: Wellington

 
Cruising between Picton and Wellington: Interislander Ferry
Cruising between Picton and Wellington: Interislander Ferry

Drop Off Rental Car at Picton Ferry Terminal
When travelling to the North Island, a changeover vehicle will be supplied at the ferry terminal in Wellington - if renting from one of the big companies, like AVIS. (No need to take the car onto the ferry and pay extra for a vehicle fare).

Ferry from Picton to Wellington

The Interislander Ferry is one of the best ways to travel between New Zealand's North and South Islands. The 83-kilometre journey between Picton in the South and Wellington in the North is regarded as one of the world's great scenic cruises - lasting three hours. Departing from the picturesque township of Picton the ferry passes through the majestic Marlborough Sounds - a haven of tree-lined coves, inlets and crystal clear water. Between the two islands lies Cook Strait, which offers stunning views and the opportunity to spot wildlife such as whales, dolphins and seabirds. After passing the rugged southern coastline of the North Island the journey ends at Lambton Harbour in Wellington, the capital of New Zealand. (The fare for the ferry is included in the package price and included in 'Extras'.)
   
 
Guest-Lounge in Villa: warm & welcoming
Guest-Lounge in Villa: warm & welcoming

Edwardian Villa in the Heart of Wellington
Located in the heart of Wellington City this Homestay B&B is a short walk from some of Wellington's best restaurants and cafes, and a few minutes walk from some of Wellington's major attractions such as Te Papa museum and the Oriental Bay beaches. The hosts, Coral & Bill, offer two double rooms in their renovated Edwardian villa for discerning travellers. Dinners can be provided by arrangement but if guests choose to dine out, they can enjoy complimentary pre-dinner refreshments with their hosts. The hosts are also pleased to make arrangements for guided tours, theatres or other events either before their guests arrive or during their stay.
   
2 nights
Bed & Breakfast


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  Wellington  more info »
 

20th day: Napier

 
via Martinborough to Napier
 Distance : 330km Time : 5:00 h
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Villa in Napier: overlooking Hawkes Bay
Villa in Napier: overlooking Hawkes Bay

Edwardian Villa in Napier
This turn of the century Edwardian villa offers three bedrooms overlooking Cape Kidnappers upstairs, and a fully self-contained two-bedroom apartment downstiars. The grand doorway with its original stained glass window and eye catching wood work gives the house lots of character. There is also a room with a balcony with stunning views, especially for those who wish to sit and drink a local award-winning wine. The host, Tim & Tina are happy to organise as much or as little as required. Continental or cooked breakfast is served in the main dining room. The house is located only 10 minutes walk from the City Centre and plenty of street parking is available.
   
1 night
Bed & Breakfast


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  Napier  more info »
 

21th day: Rotorua

 
via Taupo to Rotorua
 Distance : 230 km Time : 3:30 h
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on the lakeshore: Lodge near Rotorua
on the lakeshore: Lodge near Rotorua

Lodge on the Shores of Lake Rotorua
The unique lake-front lodge nestles in a peaceful garden setting near the tip of Kawaha Point, a leafy peninsula on the western shore of Lake Rotorua. While it is just a five-minute drive from the city centre, guests are secluded from traffic noise and sulphur fumes. A variety of accommodation is offered. Guests can swim from the private beach, then relax in the lakeside open-air spa and the Finnish sauna or enjoy a massage on site. The private jetty is an ideal starting point for floatplane and boating excursions. Complimentary green fees make a round of golf popular at the nearby 18-hole golf course. The breakfast buffet offers European breads, sliced meats, seasonal fresh fruit, cooked offering and more.
   
2 nights
Bed & Breakfast


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  Rotorua  more info »
 

23th day: Waipoua Forest

 
to the Kauri Coast
Distance: 4 50 km Time: 6 :30 h
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Boutique Lodge on the Edge of the Kauri Forest
Boutique Lodge on the Edge of the Kauri Forest

Boutique Lodge on the Edge of the Kauri Forest
This lodge is nestled on a ridge overlooking the mighty Waipoua Forest, home to New Zealand's biggest and most majestic kauri trees. "Tane Mahuta", New Zealand's largest kauri tree, is just 16kms from the lodge. The kauri villa has accommodated guests since 1890 and in winter 2003 was carefully restored by its new owners Nicole and Chris, retaining it's history and character. Guests can relax in the lounge by the fire, in the sunroom library, or choose a soothing wine from the bar to enjoy on the deck overlooking the 3 acres of gardens. Dinner is served at a time of the guests' choice. Four private self contained apartments are housed within the orginial farm buildings, which were also completely rebuilt in 2003. Tile bathrooms, private lounges, ensuites, king beds, robes, cds, and quality linen are there to enjoy and warm the soul. The landscaped gardens, filled with birdsong, lead to a native bush walk at the bottom of the garden.

Umfulana-Tip: A guided night walk - 'Twilight Encounter' - through the Waipoua Forest. Friendly experienced and local Maori guides from Footprints Waipoua willingly share their knowledge, stories, song and musical instruments to enlighten and enhance this tranquil and spiritual location. Depending on the season, the tour starts around 6pm finishes at 9pm. This tour can be pre-booked by Umfulana or later on by the lodge.
   
1 night
Bed & Breakfast


Display route
 
  Waipoua Forest  more info »
 

24th day: Bay of Islands

 
via Hokianga Harbour into the Bay of Islands
Distance: 120 km Time: 2:30 h

   
 
Breakfast with commanding views of the Bay of Islands
Breakfast with commanding views of the Bay of Islands

Lodge on Flagstaff Hill
Set high on a hill above the historic township of Russell in five hectares of native bush, this small lodge is not only a haven for bird life - including a recently released kiwi that can sometimes be heard calling at night - but also a haven for travellers. From the large wooden deck guests have commanding views of the town and of the labyrinths of sea winding between the peninsulas and islands of the bay. The guests rooms are bright, modern, spacious and elegantly appointed. Host Colwyn is a former local policeman and a former New Zealand softball player who speaks fluent Maori. The lodge is also a great honeymoon destination and, because Colywn is a marriage celebrant. Small wedding are sometimes held at the lodge and can be arranged by Umfulana.
   
2 nights
Bed & Breakfast


Display route
 
  Bay of Islands  more info »
 

26th day: Auckland

 
via Whangarei to Auckland
Distance: 240 km Time: 4:00 h
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