Lodge surrounded by tall trees and a big garden
Lodge surrounded by tall trees and a big garden
Pure luxury in New Zealand

5 weeks from Central Otago to the Bay of Islands

Would you like a holiday Down Under with the perfect mix of luxury and nature? This trip is perfect for you. New Zealand is a natural wonderland, filled with an assortment of native wildlife and pristine wilderness. Have close encounters with unique flora and fauna that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. And stay at luxurious accommodations that blend in with nature.

Quick facts about this sample itinerary

Below, you can discover our suggested locations. Feel free to adjust your comfort level, add activity packages along the route, and indicate whether you would like us to arrange your flights. The price indication is based on travel in high season, so shoulder season travel will often give you a price advantage.

Route and Impressions

new-zealand
Cycle through New Zealand's spectacular landscapes
Cycle through New Zealand's spectacular landscapes
Lake Wanaka is the gateway to exploring the wilderness of Mount Aspiring National Park
Lake Wanaka is the gateway to exploring the wilderness of Mount Aspiring National Park
Don't miss out on a picture-perfect moment at The Church of the Good Shepherd
Don't miss out on a picture-perfect moment at The Church of the Good Shepherd
Join a boat cruise, swim with dolphins and seals or take a scenic flight in Kaikoura
Join a boat cruise, swim with dolphins and seals or take a scenic flight in Kaikoura
Hike the Queen Charlotte Track
Hike the Queen Charlotte Track
Visit the Nelson markets and find the local gems
Visit the Nelson markets and find the local gems
Savour Wellington city's assortment of culinary delights
Savour Wellington city's assortment of culinary delights
Visit the impressive gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers
Visit the impressive gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers
Catch the sunrise on Ohope Beach
Catch the sunrise on Ohope Beach
Swim with majestic dolphins
Swim with majestic dolphins
Rangitoto Island is a 25-minute ferry ride from Auckland City or Devonport
Rangitoto Island is a 25-minute ferry ride from Auckland City or Devonport
Experience the magic of the Bay of Islands
Experience the magic of the Bay of Islands
Discover a variety of walking tracks in the Mahurangi Regional Park
Discover a variety of walking tracks in the Mahurangi Regional Park

Central Otago

3 nights

Featuring a vast brown landscape, snow-capped mountains, crystal blue rivers, deep gorges and tussock-clad hills. Go vineyard hopping or cycle the 152-kilometre Otago Central Rail Trail.

Wanaka

3 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.

Tekapo

3 nights

Gleaming with bright turquoise waters and surrounded by the peaks of the Southern Alps. It’s the best place to stargaze in New Zealand, with its clear nights and lack of light pollution.

Kaikoura

4 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.

Marlborough Sounds

4 nights

With three main bodies of water - Queen Charlotte, Kenepuru and Pelorus Sounds, outdoor enthusiasts have come to the right place. Kayak, cycle and hike through the sheltered bays. 

Nelson

3 nights

This colourful gem is full of artists, galleries, boutique craft shops and cafes. Soak up the creativity and explore the diverse landscapes, vineyards and orchards.

Wellington City

2 nights

A vibrant and compact city, bursting with an array of things to see and do. Dive into the coffee culture, visit Te Papa Museum and soak up the views from Mount Victoria.

Hawkes Bay & Napier

4 nights

Renowned for sunshine, fruitful vineyards and award-winning wineries. Go back in time to the 1930s, with a visit to the Art Deco-styled, Napier.

Whakatane

2 nights

Join local Maori to hear ancient stories and experience a traditional feast called a Hangi. Go swimming, kayaking and snorkelling at Whale Island.

Tauranga

2 nights

A metropolitan harbourside hub with golden sand beaches and lots of sunshine. Climb the summit of Mount Maunganui for spectacular 360-degree views of the coastline.

Waiheke Island & Hauraki Gulf

2 nights

A true New Zealand paradise for sailors and adventurers alike. Waiheke Island boasts a subtropical climate, perfect for exploring the white sandy beaches, vineyards, olive groves and art galleries.

Bay of Islands

3 nights

A natural playground with over 140 sub-tropical islands. Discover the secluded bays, dramatic coastline, crystal blue waters and marine wildlife by boat.

Auckland North

2 nights

Known for its golden beaches and sand dunes, regional parks, bush walks and a relaxed, outdoor lifestyle.

Price guide per person

Travellers
Select accommodation and car
Included accommodations
  • 37 nights in exclusive lodges and cottages
  • Spacious suites with an eye for luxury and design
  • Includes all breakfasts and several dinners
Included car
  • Rental for a large SUV for 38 days
  • Full insurance with $0 excess as standard
  • During your trip, your kilometres (and flights) are fully CO2 compensated
A sitting room with a fireplace and amazing view
A large marble bathroom
Included accomodations
  • 37 nights in superior lodges and cottages
  • Elegant suites with magnificent views
  • Includes all breakfasts and several dinners
Included car
  • Rental for a large SUV for 38 days
  • Full insurance with $0 excess as standard
  • During your trip, your kilometres (and flights) are fully CO2 compensated
A high end luxury lodge in North Auckland
Enjoy meals from the herb and vegetable garden
A light well-decorated living room in a luxury accommodation
Included accomodations
  • 37 nights in world-class lodges
  • Exquisite suites with exceptional service and views
  • Includes all breakfasts and several dinners
Included car
  • Rental for a large SUV for 38 days
  • Full insurance with $0 excess as standard
  • During your trip, your kilometres (and flights) are fully CO2 compensated
Luxury accommodation on the Banks Peninsula | New Zealand holidays
Be treated to pure luxury in our small-scale accommodations
Luxury accommodation on the Banks Peninsula | New Zealand holidays
Unique accommodation with amazing views | New Zealand holiday
Add flight
Enjoy Cathay Pacific's excellent Business class meals
Explore the history, architecture and culture of Hong Kong during your stopover
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Add activities
Price guide per person
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Adults 18+
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Youth 12-17 yrs
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Children 2-11 yrs
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Infants 0-1 yr
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During shoulder season you can enjoy significant price savings. Talk to a specialist now on 020 36 95 95 69

Detailed pricing and information

Every holiday is tailor-made based on your wishes and needs. Our advisors are locals with many tips and ideas to ensure your holiday is just perfect, for you.

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Your journey
Detailed guide for
5 weeks from Central Otago to the Bay of Islands
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