At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
Starting in the deep south, where accents are thick, and the landscape is vast. Dunedin, Otago Peninsula and the Catlins offer rugged coastlines, native wildlife and picturesque surroundings. Heading inland to Lake Wanaka, be sure to take a helicopter flight for a birds-eye view. Afterwards, zoom across the glistening waters of the lake on a jet boat.
Quick facts about this sample journey
This itinerary will be customised to suit your individual wishes
Best travel time is between February and March
Accelerated travel pace with 1-2 night/s at each location
The average drive between each accommodation is 2-3 hours
Stay with locals at 12 locations, away from the crowds
Choose from a diverse mix of activities with locals
Domestic flight from Christchurch to Dunedin
Collect your rental car in Dunedin and return in Auckland
Ferry crossing - Picton to Wellington
If you would like to start planning your New Zealand holiday, contact one of our travel specialists, obligation-free, to find out how we can help you experience an authentic and unforgettable experience down under. Below, you can discover our suggested locations.
Route and Impressions
Have a close encounter with wildlife on the Otago PeninsulaExplore an untouched, rugged corner of New ZealandLake Wanaka is the gateway to exploring the wilderness of Mount Aspiring National ParkConquer the Fox Glacier Heli-hikeTravel at a relaxed pace and find the hidden gems of the West Coast RouteHop from vineyard to vineyard in the Waipara ValleyJoin a boat cruise, swim with dolphins and seals or take a scenic flight in KaikouraKapiti Coast stretches along 30 kilometres of coastlineGet up close to native Tui birds on Kapiti IslandVisit the iconic Bridge to Nowhere in the Whanganui National ParkVisit geothermal wonders with a local guideBethells Beach - where the Waitakere River meets the Tasman Sea
Otago Peninsula
1 night
The scenic drive to Otago Peninsula boasts rugged volcanic views with untouched beaches. Home to an abundance of wildlife including New Zealand fur seals, albatross and yellow-eyed penguins.
Catlins
2 nights
Swim with rare Hector’s dolphins at Curio Bay. Spot yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals and sun-bathing sea lions. Heading inland, there are many waterfalls to explore, scattered around the coastal rainforest.
Wanaka
2 nights
An ultimate outdoor base to explore the Southern Alps and Mt Aspiring National Park. The crystal clear waters of Lake Wanaka are ideal for fly fishing, boat cruises, jet boating, kayaking and swimming.
Franz Josef & Fox
2 nights
Originating from the Southern Alps and descending to sea level, both glaciers flow around ten times faster than most valley glaciers. Get a birds-eye view on a scenic helicopter flight.
Punakaiki
2 nights
Punakaiki lies at the edge of the Paparoa National Park, the home of the famous Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. Wander through native forest to the rugged coastline and gaze at the unique limestone formations.
Waipara Valley
1 night
The rural region is known for its long dry summers, high sunshine hours and cool nights. Wine lovers will be spoilt for choice with a variety of Chardonnay, Riesling and Pinot Noir grapes grown here.
Kaikoura
2 nights
Kaikoura lies between the rugged Seaward Kaikoura Mountain Range and the Pacific Ocean, offering spectacular views. The nutrient-rich water attracts whales, seals, albatross and dolphins.
Kapiti Coast
1 night
An outdoor playground for Wellingtonians, with sandy beaches, wild nature and the gateway of Kapiti Island. Kapiti Island is home to the endangered Kiwi bird.
Kapiti Island
1 night
A predator-free paradise, a place where endangered species can once again thrive. This is one of New Zealand’s oldest and most accessible nature reserves.
Whanganui River Valley
2 nights
Brimming with hiking trails, rivers, valleys, mountains, native forest and birds. Whanganui River is a grand highlight, flowing from Mount Tongariro out to the Tasman Sea.
Rotorua
2 nights
Situated on one of the world’s most active volcano regions, Rotorua is brimming with remarkable Maori culture, world-class activities and astonishing scenery.
Auckland South
1 night
Explore the parkland pastures, wetlands and sandy beaches in Awhitu Regional Park or visit the iconic wooden Manukau Lighthouse for 360-degree views.
Price From
£4,610Per person
What's included?
21 nights staying at small-scale accommodations
Accelerated travel pace with 1-2 nights at each location
Stay at 12 different locations
Your trip supports CO2 offset projects
Average distance between each accommodation is 2-4 hours
Stay with locals, away from the crowds
Ferry crossing
Fully insured medium SUV
Return economy flights
Choose from a diverse mix of activities in nature with locals
We can alter this itinerary to suit your needs and interests
At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
Questions? Speak to one of our specialists by phone Mon - Sat 9am until 6pm. You can discuss your travel plans in detail where and when it suits you, also in the evenings and on weekends on a no obligation basis.
020 36 95 95 69
