New Zealand: 2 weeks - Summer

The best of New Zealand focusing on exploring the natural highlights, active adventure and comfort.

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Highlights: South Island - Lake Wakatipu - Heli Hiking - Fiordland, Dusky Sound - Minaret Wilderness -The Siberia Valley Experience - The Routeburn - The Rees Valley - Queenstown.

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North Island: Rotorua Lakes - Historic North - Sea Kayaking E Biking - Bay of Islands - Wine Tasting.

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Summer offering an unparalleled journey through a country renowned for adventure. We’ll take you to the secret parts of New Zealand where few humans have ever set foot.

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Discover the dramatic fjords of Milford Sound, the geothermal and cultural wonders of Rotorua, and the serene and isolated inlets of the Bay of Islands. Enjoy luxurious lodges, world-class dining, and private guided experiences that provide an intimate look at New Zealand’s diverse ecosystems, stunning scenery and wildlife.

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From the deep south to the ‘’winterless North’’, every moment is curated to deliver an unforgettable experience to last a lifetime. This bespoke adventure promises to reveal the very best of New Zealand in absolute style and comfort - with a little adventure thrown in as only a kiwi experience demands.

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Welcome to a journey like no other.

• DAY 1 | Welcome to New Zealand — Journey to the Deep South. Overnight in Glenorchy.
• DAY 2 | Explore The Peaks Heli Hike. Overnight in Glenorchy.
• DAY 3 | Experience the Routeburn Valley. Overnight in Glenorchy.
• DAY 4 | Rees Valley Packraft Experience. Overnight in Glenorchy
• DAY 5 | Shadowland Dusky Sound Experience. Overnight at Minaret Alpine Station.
• DAY 6 | The Solitude of Minaret. Overnight at Minaret Alpine Station.
• DAY 7 | Siberia Valley + Jet Boat + Heli Hike. Overnight at Minaret Alpine Station.
• DAY 8 | Explore Queenstown. Overnight in Queenstown.
• DAY 9 | Journey to the North + Geothermal Pools. Overnight in Rotorua.
• DAY 10 | Whakarewarea Forest Biking + Secret Spot. Overnight in Rotorua.
• DAY 11 | The Far North. Overnight at The Landing.
• DAY 12 | Explore New Zealands History. Overnight at The Landing.
• DAY 13 | Experience the Bay of Islands. Overnight at The Landing. 
• DAY 14 | Departure. Overnight in Auckland upon request. 

Welcome to New Zealand

• Day One: Southern Lakes. Overnight Blanket Bay, Glenorchy.

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Welcome to New Zealand. Aotearoa - (The Land of The Long White Cloud) as it was named by Maori explorers, the first peoples of New Zealand. Aptly named, this maritime landmass in the South Pacific does indeed capture cloud, wind, intense sun, rain and everything in between, making this a wonder of geographic and historic adventure.

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Upon your arrival in Auckland, your dedicated EliteLyfe host will meet you and accompany you on a transfer to the private aviation terminal where we’ll board a private flight bound for the Southern Lakes District. Our destination is Blanket Bay. Set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu amidst the rugged snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps, Blanket Bay is where relaxation and adventure meet - this luxury retreat is the perfect introduction to New Zealand, and the deep South.

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Settle into your luxury chalet, soak in the lake and mountain views, and enjoy your first taste of fine kiwi cuisine, wine and hospitality.

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Heli Hike Earnslaw Burn

• Day Two: Southern Lakes. Overnight Blanket Bay, Glenorchy.

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This morning there’s ample opportunity to relax and absorb the sun rising over Lake Wakatipu before boarding our helicopter to fly into the mountains of Mt Aspiring National Park.

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This wilderness area of steep peaks, deep green forests, waterfalls and U-shaped valleys. This zone is the definition of pristine and this bird’s eye view will showcase it in all its glory. We’ll land in the alpine basin at the foot of a spectacular glacier, and hike down the once glacier covered valley, following the stream that the huge icefall above us feeds. Enjoy a chef-prepared lunch and hear stories of the geological and natural history of this region from a prominent New Zealand mountaineer.

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We’ll board our helicopter once clearing the forest and head back to Blanket Bay to relax. Indulge in the spa experience for post hike recovery. Enjoy pre-dinner cocktails at the main lodge, before a chef-prepared dinner overlooking the lake.

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Experience the Routeburn

• Day Three: Glenorchy. Overnight Blanket Bay.

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Tucked away at the edge of Mt Aspiring National Park likes the beginning of one of the worlds Great Walks - the Routeburn Track.

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We’ll have the chance to hike a section of this incredible track today, beginning with a very short drive to the Routebrun Shelter, and the start of the walk. We’ll follow the crystal clear waters of the Routeburn river, through pristine beech forest, flanked by high peaks on the left and the right. We’ll arrive at Routeburn Flats, where a fine gourmet lunch awaits. Routeburn Flats is a glorious alpine meadow and a perfect place for a break!

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We’ll make our way back to the Shelter this afternoon and return to Blanket Bay to relax by the lake.

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Packraft the Rees + Onsen Experience

• Day Four: Southern Lakes. Overnight Blanket Bay.

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Dive deeper into Mt Aspiring National Park today, with a packrafting experience in a location that very few humans experience.

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Breathtakingly beautiful, remote and best of all, peaceful, this packrafting experience on crystal clear water and through pristine canyons with expert guides is a unique way to explore an untouched river system. Paddle through deep gorges and calm pools on your own packraft and experience the thrill of swift moving water in the exciting sections. This is a day to remember.

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After leaving the river behind, we’ll return to Blanket Bay to relax and recharge after an adventurous day in the Rees Valley.

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Blanket Bay. Glenorchy

Blanket Bay, is the ideal staging ground for exploring the Mt Aspiring National Park. Set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu amidst the rugged snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps. Blanket Bay is where relaxation and adventure meets luxury accommodation, unparalleled service and five star facilities. For an unparalleled experience the fully serviced villa has it all. Shared spaces within the Villa are centred around the grand lounge, bar and commercial kitchen.

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Award winning local Chef Dan Reynolds heads up the Blanket Bay kitchen showcasing New Zealand’s finest, fresh produce sourced from bespoke local purveyors.

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Dusky Sounds Wilderness

• Day Five: Fiordland. Overnight Minaret Alpine Station.

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We’ll depart Blanket Bay this morning and head west by helicopter and deep into the heart of Fiordland National Park. Our destination is Dusky Sound, only accessible by helicopter or ocean going vessels.

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This region is utterly pristine. After a stunning scenic flight, we’ll land on a custom-built floating helipad before boarding a private boat to enjoy a day of fishing, discovery and wildlife viewing. This exclusive day expedition features the cuisine - abundant sea life including crayfish and other delicacies only found here and an exploration of the pristine shoreline of this World Heritage Area to retrace the steps of explorer Captain Cook. The archaeological evidence of Cook’s visit can still be seen in the tree stumps cut by his crew for timber used to repair the vessel, Resolution in 1773.

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Later we’ll board our helicopter from our floating helipad and fly north over Mt Aspiring national park to Minaret Station, a private, luxury lodge set in a remote glacial valley surrounded by towering peaks, accessible only by helicopter.

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The Solitude of Minaret

• Day Six: Mt Aspiring National Park. Overnight Minaret Alpine Station

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Wake up in the wilderness this morning and take time to soak in this ancient glacial valley. There are a number of options on offer today - from fly fishing, alpine landings and hiking to horse trekking. All of which can be done without a single living sole in sight - a huge wilderness all to yourself.

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Your host is always on hand to offer the options and build out your dream day. If kicking back and relaxing is your preference today, there’s no place better. A private chef is on hand to deliver exquisite mountain cuisine with local wine preferences to match.

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Comfortable in every sense, with warm hospitality and world class cuisine, Minaret Station Alpine Lodge is truly an extraordinary location to escape the “real world”. Family owned, with more than fifty years hosting guests from New Zealand and all around the world.

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The Siberia Valley

• Day Seven: Overnight at Minaret Alpine Station.

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This morning’s flight will take us into the most beautiful part of Mt Aspiring National Park. Our helicopter will drop us at the geographical wonder that is Lake Crucible. Surrounded by towering walls, Lake Crucible is a circular alpine lake that lies behind the terminal face of the glacier which hangs high above.

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Through all the seasons, large chunks of ice fall from the walls above and remain floating in the lake. If you’re prepared to brave the cold, a swim in the lake is an option! We’ll walk down through the alpine beech forest below the lake, take in a gourmet wilderness lunch and arrive at a wide open river valley flanked by alpine meadows.

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We’ll be met by a jet boat on the banks of the Wilkin River for a riveting high speed ride down the river valley. We’ll arrive at the frontier village of Makarora and board our helicopter back to Minaret Station to catch the evening light as the sun sets on the surrounding mountains.

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Minaret Lodge, Minaret Station

The family owned lodge provides the opportunity to enjoy some of life’s most precious elements; time, fresh air and open space, whilst creating life-long memories with friends and family, in complete privacy.

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Enjoy 3 nights in the heart of New Zealand’s backcountry. Accessible only by helicopter this luxury lodge is set in a remote glacial valley surrounded by towering peaks. There are few, if any, places quite like this in the world. Comfortable in every sense, with warm hospitality and world class cuisine, Minaret Station Alpine Lodge is truly an extraordinary location to escape the “real world”.

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Lounge by the fire-pit, explore the expansive property, or perhaps recharging in the hot-tubs.

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Explore Queenstown

• Day Eight: Queenstown. Overnight at The Penthouse.

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No visit to New Zealand would be complete without a day to soak in the sights and sounds of Queenstown. This idyllic, yet bustling town serves as an escape from the real world and is the perfect springboard for adventure and leisure alike. With fine dining, boutique shopping and a number of hidden secrets for spa and rejuvenation, there is a little bit (or alot) of something for all tastes. It’s a short but incredible flight from Minaret Station.

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After a short vehicle transfer to Eichardts Private Hotel. An architectural beauty on Lake Wakatipu, Eichardt’s Private Hotel has welcomed travelers through its doors since 1861.

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The Eichardts story is rich with colorful characters and pioneering endeavors woven deep within lovingly preserved walls. For more than 160 years, the Eichardt’s reputation for hospitality and generosity has never wavered, and an icon has endured.

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The Penthouse, Queenstown

The Penthouse exudes contemporary opulence and chic interior styling. Complementing unsurpassed views across the deep waters of Lake Wakatipu and the majestic mountain ranges beyond.

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An extraordinary level of luxury combined with one-of-a-kind hosting, crafted by a team devoted to faultless and discreet service. Experience a taste of Queenstown history with rootsstretching back to 1866. The Penthouse is centrally located. Not only is it completely private, but you are also still so close to Wineries, Cafes, Bars. Enjoy the spa-like marble bathrooms, private pool terrace, personal chef and a round the-clock butler. It’s a spectacular space for enjoying the finer things in life.

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Experience the best on offer in Queenstown or perhaps a more intimate private dining experience on the Penthouse balcony.

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Journey To Rotorua

• Day Nine: Central Lakes. Overnight at Solitaire Lodge.

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This morning we’ll begin our exploration of the North Island, which offers a stark and beautiful contrast to the South Island. Transfer by private aircraft from Queenstown to Rotorua, the cultural heart of New Zealand.

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Renowned for its rich Māori culture, world-class spa and wellness experiences, otherworldly geothermal landscapes, and incredible backyard of lush forests and sparkling lakes. Arriving in Rotorua, we take a short vehicle transfer to Solitaire Lodge Rotorua, one of New Zealand’s premiere luxury lodges. Enjoy breathtaking views over Lake Tarawera, with lush natural bush and volcanic landscape backdrop.

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After arriving at the lodge, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the property, take in the views and relax before dinner. Feeling like a something a little more active, the team will be on hand to take you for an evening walk through the stunning Redwood Forest.

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Sea Kayak + E-Biking

• Day Ten: Central Lakes. Overnight at Solitaire Lodge.

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We’ll meet Bradley, our sea kayak guide, for a full briefing before taking to the water in sea kayaks to paddle across this ancient lake, lined with dense native forest. A short paddle across the lake brings us to the Manupirua Springs hot pools. This place is out of this world! Soak in glorious hot pools overlooking the lake without the sounds of roads or civilisation - a New Zealand trip highlight, that is inaccessible for many!

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Later, it’s time to experience this thermal region on two wheels. Rotorua is world famous for mountain biking. No matter what type of riding you enjoy, there’s a trail for everyone in this incredible area of forest on the outskirts of town. From wide gentle paths through dense forest, to steep trails to get the heart pumping. After being kitted out with mountain bike, helmets and gear, we’ll head out with Jamie, our resident mountain biking guru and expert guide, for an exploration of the trails in the Whakarewarewa forest.

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Solitare Lodge, Rotorua, New Zealand

Enjoys breathtaking views over Lake Tarawera, with lush natural bush and volcanic landscape backdrop, at one of New Zealands premier luxury lodges. The perfect staging ground in Rotorua, minutes from a multitude of activities. The lodge is also the perfect place to simply relax, indulge and rejuvenate.

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The Tarawera Suite features floor to ceiling glass that embraces an uninterrupted view from the tranquil bay, across the glassy lake and up to the majestic summit of Mount Tarawera. This suite has a split level design and features a generous bedroom, with lavish super king bed, relaxing sitting area and separate dining room. Private balconies are perfectly positioned to take in one of New Zealand’s most spectacular views.

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Solitaire Lodge’s talented chefs create daily changing fare to tantalize guests’ culinary desires. The full board menu features contemporary New Zealand cuisine prepared with fresh local ingredients, complemented by a variety of superb wines from selected regional vineyards.

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The Far North

• Day Eleven: Northland. Overnight at The Landing.

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We’ll take a short transfer to Rotorua Airport this morning, before taking our private aircraft to the ‘’winterless North’’ AKA The Bay of Islands.

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Infused in both Maori and European history, the Bay of Islands is considered to be the birthplace of New Zealand as a bi-cultural nation, and is now home to many diverse cultures and people. It is also a maritime wonder - with over 140 picturesque islands, offering endless opportunities for sailing, kayaking, and dolphin watching. Remote beaches, historic sites, and lush forests complete this idyllic escape.

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The ultimate retreat to properly honor this uniquely historic and spectacularly beautiful part of New Zealand is The Landing. From the moment you set foot on The Landing, you will have arrived at a special place. Miles of sun-soaked white-sand beaches and an epic marine playground call you to swim, dive, fish, surf and explore. The native forest and wetlands ring with birdsong and at night New Zealand’s shy native icon, the kiwi, emerges to meet you. There’s world-class food and wine to enjoy in incredible settings. And around every corner, history whispers in the wind.

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The Bay of Islands

• Day Twelve and Thirteen: Northland. Overnight at The Landing.

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These two days are yours to choose from the multitude of experiences on the doorstep. The Landing has six private beaches ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling or relaxing on the golden sand as your children play in the safe, quiet waters of the bay.

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The skippered private vessel Iti Rangi is available for you to cruise the coves of the peninsula to fish and encounter seabirds and other marine life. Or if you like to chase big game, the luxury sport-fishing vessel Ata Rangi can be taken out for the day or overnight for some of the best marlin, tuna fishing in the world.

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The Bay of Islands also offers incredible scuba diving, and wreck diving, including the famous Rainbow Warrior and HMNZS Canterbury, parasailing, and hole-in-therock cruises.

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The Landing, The Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Located on the southern tip of the Purerua Peninsula, in the Bay of Islands on the site of the first bicultural European and Māori settlement in New Zealand. The 1000-acre property boasts six private beaches, four architecturally designed residences and a private chef available to cater all meals.

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On-site activities include wine tastings, kayaking, paddle-boarding, biking, tennis, guided kiwi-spotting walks amongst one of the densest kiwi populations in the country. Plus a private boat available for sight-seeing cruises and water activities.

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The Landing is the vision and personal passion of Peter Cooper, a Northlandborn New Zealander. The Landing is home to some of the world’s most spectacular coastal scenery, and is known for long sunshine hours, marine leisure activities, and access to exceptional fresh produce and seafood.

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The five-suite Cooper Residence is home to a significant collection of Māori taonga (treasures), historic artifacts, archeological relics and contemporary New Zealand art. Its spaces range from expansive indoor and outdoor entertaining areas and a grand wine cellar and tasting room, to intimate conversation and contemplation corners, a library, outdoor fireplace and observatory tower deck. Built in 2012 with five master suites within the expansive 1142m2 floor area boasting undisturbed 360-degree views from a headland position.

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The hours before dinner become a highlight with the team returning from the days adventure. Relax on the deck, the chef prepares the daily fare — typically comprising of the sea food sourced locally.

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Depart New Zealand

• Day Fourteen

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Today is your last day of your New Zealand adventure. We hope you’ve enjoyed your kiwi experience - taking in the pristine wilderness, abundant wildlife and warm hospitality.

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We’ll take the last private helicopter trip of the trip down to Auckland where you’ll depart New Zealand and take with you memories that will last a lifetime.

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Impeccible Cuisine

No adventure is complete without good food. Your New Zealand journey will bring together a mix of private chefs, ocean to plate and wilderness cuisine experiences. Enjoy impeccable award winning cuisine high in the mountains, on the shores of the pristine alpine lakes, or after a sunset cocktail relaxing at your lodge.

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New Zealand is renown for fresh delicacies, wild, organically sourced produce and exception quality. Make no mistake, the food here is to die for!

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Transfer upgrades are available upon request.

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EliteLyfe provides tailored transportation solutions, including helicopter, private jet, or chauffeur-driven luxury vehicles.

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KEY INFORMATION

Airports & Transfers

The major international airports to enter NZ are Auckland and Christchurch however private international facilities are available at Queenstown, Rotorua, Wellington and Dunedin. For the above itinerary the best port of entry is Auckland.

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Equipment

Due to the nature of this adventure package we will provide you with an up-to-date gear list. Need equipment in country, we have a range of high quality suppliers available and can ensure you’re comfortable and kitted out for the trip.

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Inclusions

All ground transport and shuttles, guiding and hosting, park entrance fees, lodging, meals including snacks. Some exclusions may apply such as travel insurance, personal riding gear, upgrades and international flights

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Climate and Weather

Weather can be varied in NZ, with cold winters and dry hot summers. Although summer months (Nov - March) are warm and dry, the weather can change extremely quickly so it is vital to ensure a diverse range of clothing no matter when you travel.