New Zealand Travel Insights

Drive at your own pace around the scenic Coromandel Peninsula

New Zealand North Island Highlights - 14 Days

Explore the best of New Zealand's North Island with this two-week trip combining remote scenery, Maori culture, and famous film locations. Start in Auckland, where you'll sail across the picturesque harbors and explore the Waitakere Ranges. Then, pick up your rental car and begin an exciting road trip to the Coromandel Peninsula, Hobbiton, Rotorua, and Lake Taupo. Continue onto Napier, where the wineries of Hawke's Bay await, and finish with two days in the walkable capital, Wellington.

Jet boat down the Shotover River and explore the nearby gold rush town of Arrowtown on this 11-day New Zealand road trip

New Zealand Explorer: Road Trip Across the North & South Islands - 11 Days

This scenic self-drive adventure through New Zealand gives you a glimpse of both the North and South islands over 11 days. Starting in Christchurch, explore the city then start your road trip south to Aoraki / Mount Cook, the country's highest mountain. Take a scenic flight over ice falls and glaciers, and continue to Wanaka and Queenstown. Cruise across Milford Sound / Piopiotahi and get your thrills with a jet boat ride, then fly to the North Island for a quick taste of Auckland and Rotorua.

The drive toward Hawkes Bay takes you to a landscape of world-class wineries and independent farms

Sustainable New Zealand Road Trip: An Eco-Friendly Journey from Auckland to Queenstown - 13 Days

New Zealand is a fabulous country for a road trip, with scenery that makes the journey truly the destination. This 13-day itinerary is geared up for electric vehicles to make your trip more sustainable. As you wind your way south from Auckland to Queenstown, you'll enjoy meals from ingredients harvested on-site, wine purchased from the source, and increasingly eco-friendly and carbon-neutral activities on a trip that seeks to both showcase and preserve New Zealand's powerful natural heritage.

Head north to see the white-sand beaches of Cathedral Cove on the Coromandel Peninsula

New Zealand Active North Island Road Trip: Auckland, Coromandel & Rotorua - 9 Days

Nine days is the perfect amount of time to get a taste of the North Island's cities, beaches, and geothermal wonders. This adventurous and active itinerary starts in Auckland, with dinner atop the Sky Tower and a whale and dolphin watching cruise. Then, start your road trip north to the Coromandel Peninsula, where you'll dig holes at the beach to reach a hot spring and go sea kayaking around Cathedral Cove. End with a scenic drive south to Rotorua, famous for its volcanic activity and Maori culture.

New Zealand Winter Landscapes & Skiing Tour - 9 Days

Pack your puffer jacket and experience winter in the Southern Hemisphere with this nine-day New Zealand itinerary. On the North Island, tick off Auckland and its famous Sky Tower, and transfer to Rotorua via Hobbiton. Then, fly to the South Island, where snowy landscapes abound. Travel from Christchurch to Queenstown via the beautiful Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, go skiing at The Remarkables and Coronet Peak ski fields, and visit the inspiring Milford Sound / Piopiotahi.

The majestic drive to Aoraki / Mount Cook is a trip highlight

Scenic New Zealand South Island Road Trip & Cycling Adventure - 13 Days

New Zealand's South Island has a well-deserved reputation for extraordinary landscapes, and this 13-day self-drive itinerary ensures you'll cover highlights like Aoraki / Mount Cook, Queenstown, Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, and Franz Josef / Waiau Glacier. It's not all driving, though—as well as some city fun to bookend the trip, you'll enjoy four days of unmatchable scenic cycle trails. Throw in world-class hiking, a boat or two, a tram, and a train, and you have the ultimate South Island adventure.

Hike the Routeburn Trail on a wilderness tour of New Zealand's North and South Islands

19 Days in New Zealand - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Domestic flights and rental cars allow you to experience both the North and South Islands in 19 days. Foodies will appreciate a Maori feast at Te Pa Tu and wine tasting on Waiheke Island. An Abel Tasman National Park hike or beach day and spotting dolphins and penguins while kayaking in the Tonga Island Marine Reserve are a treat for nature lovers. Active travelers can tackle a hut-to-hut hike along the Kepler Track and mountain bike at Cardrona Mountain Resort.

A young couple stands atop Roy's Peak between Wānaka and Glendhu Bay

2 Weeks in New Zealand - 5 Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas

During a two-week honeymoon adventure in New Zealand, you can experience mighty mountains, pristine coastlines, and good old-fashioned Kiwi hospitality. Take a romantic road trip through the North and South Islands to experience a bit of everything, or stay on one island to immerse yourselves in thrilling nature-themed activities. If your escape is in winter, enjoy picturesque hot pools and stunning cruises, while those who love hiking can look forward to a honeymoon brimming with multiday treks.

Stroll hand-in-hand through dreamy vineyards during a one-week honeymoon trip in New Zealand

1 Week in New Zealand - 5 Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas

With a one-week honeymoon in New Zealand, you can explore the South Island's rugged mountains or the North Island's geothermal wonders and serene coastlines. First-time visitors shouldn't miss the adventure-filled Queenstown and the glacier landscapes of Lake Tekapo, while couples seeking wine and culture will enjoy Rotorua and Napier. For a mix of both islands, choose a fast-paced, activity-packed trip or opt for a romantic escape via water taxi into the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds.

Drive to Roturua, situated along Lake Rotorua, and visit the natural attractions

Classic New Zealand & Australia Adventure - 19 Days

Strap yourself in for this 19-day trip that starts in New Zealand and ends in Australia. You'll land in Auckland, New Zealand's largest city, and take a little road trip to Rotorua in North Island's heart. Then, skip over to Australia, exploring the best of Melbourne before flying to the Red Center to see Uluru. After a few evenings beneath desert stars, fly to sub-tropical Brisbane and drive to the Gold Coast for fun in the sun. Finally, fly south to Sydney to tick off icons and enjoy Australia's most famous city.

Hike through the South Island's incredible scenery on the Kepler Track

Active Trekking Tour of New Zealand: North & South Islands - 19 Days

Strap on your hiking boots for this 19-day active adventure across New Zealand's most visual landscapes! From conquering volcanic peaks to kayaking through glowworm caves, this itinerary is focused on exploring the great outdoors. Tackle two multiday hikes, including the famous Kepler Track, and spend a day hiking into a crater. You'll also shred some mountain bike trails in Wanaka, explore geysers and Maori heritage in Rotorua, and soak in a hot tub overlooking Queenstown's Shotover Canyon.

Finish the honeymoon road trip in Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world

Ultimate New Zealand Winter Honeymoon - 14 Days

This New Zealand honeymoon road trip combines the best of the country's North and South islands into one brilliant winter vacation. Over 14 days, you'll fly above world-famous sights such as Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, experience the beauty of glacial valleys and turquoise lakes up close, and learn about the night sky while floating in a natural hot spring. You'll also see the mountains around Lake Tekapo covered in snow and finish the trip with a relaxing—and private—onsen experience in Queenstown.

Take the ferry to Picton on the South Island for the full-day Queen Charlotte Track

Honeymoon Hiking Adventure in New Zealand - 14 Days

What better way to start a marriage than by conquering diverse terrains, from volcanic wonders to ancient rainforests and coastal views? This memorable honeymoon has been designed for the intrepid couple. If you connect over a love of the great outdoors, this New Zealand road trip with daytime endorphins and cozy evenings under starry skies is for you. You'll explore the North and South islands with a rental car, squeezing in three multiday hikes, full-day crater treks, wildlife spotting, and even some spa time.

Spend three days hiking the scenic Routeburn Track in New Zealand

New Zealand's Ultimate Self-Drive Hiking Adventure: Auckland to Queenstown - 19 Days

This epic 19-day self-drive itinerary is perfect for avid hikers looking to experience the best of the North and the South islands. Pack your best walking boots as this trip includes two three-day treks: the coastal Queen Charlotte Track, and the Routeburn Track, which crosses two national parks. You'll also go wildlife spotting on a boat cruise, visit Hobbiton, and connect with Maori culture in Rotorua. If that's not enough, you'll also hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and explore the natural beauty of Wanaka.

Take scenic trains, cruises, and water taxis to explore the South Island's pristine coastline

New Zealand's South Island Coastal Honeymoon - 7 Days

Lovers of seafood, wine, marine life, and ocean views will be drawn to this weeklong honeymoon in New Zealand's South Island. After a night in Christchurch, take a scenic train to the Marlborough Sounds. You'll stop in beautiful Kaikoura to go whale watching by airplane, then continue north to Picton, where a seafood cruise awaits. Marvel as the wild beauty of the Queen Charlotte Sound from your secluded lodge. End the trip in Nelson, a small coastal city and gateway to Abel Tasman National Park.

Rent a car on both islands of New Zealand during this two-week honeymoon

New Zealand Honeymoon Road Trip: North & South Islands - 14 Days

Combine nature, sightseeing, and relaxation with this two-week New Zealand honeymoon road trip. You'll tick off both the North and South islands, starting in Auckland and ending in Christchurch. Start by exploring geothermal wonders and Maori culture in Rotorua, followed by a sunset hike in Tongariro and free time in Wellington. Then, fly south to Queenstown to cruise through the remote Doubtful Sound, discover glowworm caves in Te Anau, and soar above Aoraki / Mount Cook.

Your most active day will be a full-day hike in Tongariro National Park

New Zealand's North Island Honeymoon Highlights - 14 days

With a mix of activities, this New Zealand honeymoon explores the best of the North Island. Over 14 days, you'll take part in outdoor and cultural pursuits and some well-deserved relaxation. Start with a romantic dinner in Auckland, then begin your epic road trip to see the Coromandel Peninsula, geothermal Rotorua, thrilling Taupo, and Art Deco Napier. Then, visit Tongariro National Park, where you'll accomplish a famous all-day hike before wine tasting in Martinborough and sightseeing in Wellington.

Fly to Milford Sound for a remarkable cruise during a two-week luxury New Zealand adventure

2 Weeks in New Zealand - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

Two weeks in New Zealand is an excellent amount of time to uncover the country's dramatic landscapes and luxury novelties. If you're a first-time visitor, pair a rental car with exclusive tours to experience the wonders of the North and South Islands. Focus on the South Island for a deeper dive into the impressive Southern Alps and untouched coastlines. Or, stick to the North Island to hop between remarkable islands, lakes, and wineries and tackle world-renowned golf courses.

Drive your way from east to west while exploring the South Island's best national parks and attractions

New Zealand's South Island Active Honeymoon - 14 Days

This New Zealand honeymoon is perfect for fit and active newlyweds who love the great outdoors. You'll spend two weeks road-tripping from Christchurch to Queenstown, stopping in Akaroa, Lake Tekapo, Wanaka, and Te Anau en route. Along the way, take part in kayaking, cycling, hiking, and jet boating across the South Island. Of course, a romantic holiday should include relaxation, so you'll float in hot pools, stargaze beneath snowy peaks, and cruise across Milford Sound / Piopiotahi.

Visit wineries in two key areas of the North Island on this weeklong adventure

New Zealand's Ultimate Food, Wine & Culture Honeymoon - 7 Days

Gourmands and culture lovers will relish this weeklong New Zealand honeymoon that focuses on the North Island. Start in Auckland, where you'll cruise to Waiheke Island for wine tasting. Then, begin your romantic road trip south to explore Rotorua's geothermal wonders and connect with Maori culture. From there, hop to Napier to discover Art Deco architecture and cycle around Hawke's Bay's best vineyards before reaching Wellington, where you can visit the capital's top museums and restaurants.

Fly and cruise to snowcapped views of Milford Sound on your last full day of the trip

Winter Honeymoon in New Zealand: North & South Island - 7 Days

Over seven incredible days, this cozy winter honeymoon explores the best of New Zealand's North and South islands. Land in Auckland, the "City of Sails," for a chic dinner for two before commencing a short road trip south. Explore Rotorua's geothermal and natural highlights, from romantic after-dark strolls through the redwoods to spa treatments in bubbling pools. Then, fly south to Queenstown, where adrenaline-pumping adventures and views of Milford Sound / Piopiotahi await.

Finish the trip in Rotorua, where you can explore geothermal activity and redwood forests

Honeymoon Road Trip Escape to New Zealand's North Island - 7 Days

Experience the beauty of New Zealand's North Island with this weeklong honeymoon itinerary. After a special evening in Auckland and a rugby experience with the All Blacks, grab the keys to a rental car and journey north to the spectacular Coromandel Peninsula. Here, you'll hike among native bushland, swim at secluded beaches, and join a glass-bottom boat tour. Then, drive south to Rotorua, a geothermal wonderland with bubbling mud pools, spurting geysers, redwood forests, and constant volcanic activity.

Drive at your own pace on the South Island and enjoy plenty of scenic stops along the way

New Zealand Honeymoon Road Trip on the South Island - 7 Days

Get ready for an outdoorsy honeymoon that ticks off the best of New Zealand's South Island. Start in Queenstown, where you'll see the world-famous Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, then grab a rental car and start your road trip. At Lake Tekapo, soar above national parks and glaciers aboard a scenic flight, followed by stargazing. Continue to Akaroa, a wild peninsula where you'll meet friendly dolphins and penguins, and stay in a remote glass cabin. End in Christchurch with a foodie walking tour before departure.

Experience the serene beauty of the Bay of Islands

See New Zealand's North Island by Bus: Auckland, Paihia & Rotorua - 8 Days

Experience the contrast of cosmopolitan cities and windswept coastlines on New Zealand's North Island with this eight-day adventure. Kick back and relax as you connect between Auckland, Paihia, and Rotorua by scenic Intercity and tour buses, experiencing geothermal wonders, twinkling caverns, and dense forest canopies along the way. Highlights include an immersive Maori forest feast, a scenic cruise around the Bay of Islands, and a tour through the Tolkien-inspired landscapes of Hobbiton.

Drive around New Zealand's North and South Islands, stopping at luxury homesteads, eco-retreats, and lodges along the way (photo courtesy of Mahu Whenau)

North to South New Zealand Luxury Road Trip: Auckland to Queenstown - 14 Days

Perfect for discerning travelers who like to blaze their own trail, this two-week road trip races across New Zealand's North and South Islands at a brisk pace. Break up epic coastal and mountain drives with outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and stops at luxury lodges and secluded eco-retreats. Highlights include cruising around the Bay of Islands, picnicking on the slopes of Mount Ffyfe, sipping your way around the wineries of Marlborough, and soaring over the Southern Alps by helicopter.

Stay at one-of-a-kind luxury retreats as you explore the South Island (photo courtesy of Hapuku Lodge and Tree Houses)

Luxury Food, Wine & Landscapes of New Zealand's South Island - 14 Days

Explore the best of New Zealand's South Island—with a touch of luxury—on this two-week itinerary filled with adventure, relaxation, nature, and wine. Starting and finishing in Christchurch, you'll take the scenic Coastal Pacific Train north to reach the famous Marlborough wine region and the golden beaches of Abel Tasman National Park. Then, fly to Queenstown to cruise the glassy waters of Milford Sound / Piopiotahi and explore the glaciers of Aoraki / Mount Cook by helicopter and kayak.

Stop over at luxurious lodges and estates on your road trip down New Zealand (photo courtesy of Rosewood Matakauri)

New Zealand Luxury Highlights: Road Trip Through the North & South Islands - 14 Days

See the highlights of New Zealand's North and South Islands in style with this two-week luxury self-drive itinerary. Start in Auckland, then drive to Rotorua, Hawkes Bay, and the Wairarapa before flying south to tackle Queenstown, Aoraki / Mount Cook, and Christchurch. Blending the excitement of 4WD tours, heli hiking, and jet boating with leisurely indulgence—think vineyard bicycle tours, spa treatments, fine dining, and harbor cruises—this tour truly showcases some of New Zealand's finest features.

Explore the North Island from north to south, staying at the country's best luxury retreats along the way (photo courtesy of Wharekauhau)

Luxury Highlights of New Zealand's North Island - 14 Days

This indulgent two-week getaway combines the best of the North Island's natural beauty with stays at some of New Zealand's most exclusive luxury estates and lodges. The fun kicks off in the north as you get to know Auckland and the spectacular Bay of Plenty. Then, it's time for an epic road trip as you wind your way south through Rotorua, Taupo, Napier, and Martinborough—savoring an itinerary of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, wine-tasting tours, and relaxing spa days en route.

Split your time between four of the country's finest luxury resorts and their world-class links (photo courtesy of Rosewood Kauri Cliffs)

New Zealand Luxury Golf Experience - 14 Days

Grab your clubs and play your way across New Zealand's premier greens with this 14-day deluxe golfing trip that includes the North Island's finest fairways. Over two weeks, you'll tee off at four prestigious courses—Te Arai Links, Kauri Cliffs, Kinloch, and Cape Kidnappers. When not on the green, cruise across the spectacular Lake Taupo, connect with Maori culture, meet the largest mainland gannet colony, and go wine tasting in Hawke's Bay.

Spend two nights outside of Taupō on a luxury tour of New Zealand's North Island (photo courtesy of Huka Lodge)

10 Days in New Zealand - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days to savor New Zealand's nature-immersed luxuries, you can hit the highlights of the North and South Islands on a classic tour or a winter getaway. Alternatively, focus on one island and cater the adventure to your interests. A driving tour from Auckland to Wellington is perfect for wine enthusiasts, while the Southern Alps and Fiordland call to adventure seekers. For those who find golf courses their paradise, hop between the top-notch courses of Mangawhai, Taupō, and Napier.

Experience three of the world's most scenic links on this luxury golf itinerary (photo courtesy of Rosewood Cape Kidnappers)

New Zealand Luxury Golf Experience - 10 Days

Get ready to chip, drive, and putt your way through New Zealand's finest golfing destinations with this 10-day luxury trip across the North Island. Tee off in style and elevate your golfing game with special stays at three prestigious courses—Te Arai Links, Kinloch Golf Course, and Cape Kidnappers Golf Course. After the nineteenth hole, you'll find no shortage of things to do in paradise as you connect with Maori culture, visit the largest mainland gannet colony, and cruise across the spectacular Lake Taupo.

Hop in a helicopter to ascend the icy slopes of Aoraki / Mount Cook

Winter Luxury in New Zealand: Auckland to Queenstown - 10 Days

Experience New Zealand's charms in the cooler months of June through September with this luxurious winter road trip. In 10 days, you'll travel from subtropical Auckland to the snowcapped mountains of Queenstown, checking off destination hotels and bucket-list excursions along the way. Sip your way around the "wine island" of Waiheke, soar over Rotorua's geysers by floatplane, trek atop a glacier in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, and warm up with an evening in the onsen hot springs of Queenstown.

Stay in secluded bliss at historic farmstays and luxury lodges (photo courtesy of Wharekauhau)

Luxury Highlights of New Zealand's North Island - 10 Days

Experience New Zealand's distinct brand of laid-back luxury with this 10-day North Island road trip featuring some of the country's best boutique lodges and historic farmstays. En route from Auckland to Wellington, you'll meet the residents of a kiwi sanctuary in Rotorua, jet boat through the turquoise rapids of Huka Falls, taste your way through the wine country of Hawke's Bay and Martinborough, and wander among the otherworldly rock formations of the Putangirua Pinnacles.

Stay in luxurious boutique lodges as you make your way across the North and South Islands (photo courtesy of Rosewood Cape Kidnappers)

New Zealand Luxury Highlights: North & South Islands - 10 Days

This relaxed 10-day getaway introduces you to the highlights of New Zealand's North and South Islands in luxurious style. Between exclusive excursions and tours, you'll embark on scenic road trips between some of the country's loveliest boutique lodges. Soar over Rotorua in a floatplane, cycle between the wineries of Hawke's Bay, cruise around Art Deco Napier in a vintage car, boat across the glassy waters of Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, and soak in natural hot springs on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.

End your trip at a luxurious lakeside lodge outside Queenstown (photo courtesy of Azur Lodge)

New Zealand South Island Luxury Getaway - 10 Days

This 10-day road trip across New Zealand's South Island squeezes in the best nature experiences and active adventures as you journey from Christchurch to Queenstown. Wake up in remote luxury lodges and 5-star hotels, then tick off bucket-list experiences in ways you didn't expect. Ride a chopper to a mountaintop whisky bar, climb up a waterfall in Wanaka, explore the remote Doubtful Sound by boat, hike part of the famous Routeburn Track, and soak in relaxing onsen hot springs.

Drive to some of the most scenic areas of the South Island on this adventure

New Zealand Outdoor Adventure: Fiords, Glaciers & Mountains - 13 Days

This 13-day New Zealand itinerary covers both islands using a variety of transportation methods, including a rental car. Start in Auckland, where you'll see otherwordly Rotorua and the Waitomo Caves. Then fly to Christchurch and take the TranzAlpine Scenic Train to Greymouth to pick up your car. After choosing between scenic tours at Franz Josef Glacier, head to Queenstown for horseback riding before cruising along Milford Sound to spot wildlife and get drenched under waterfalls.

Active Highlights of New Zealand's South Island - 14 Days

Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, this two-week New Zealand trip embraces the wild beauty of the South Island. Start in the adventure capital of Christchurch and catch a ride on the TranzAlpine Train across the island. Then, it's time for a road trip, as you collect a rental car to reach Franz Josef Glacier, Queenstown, Te Anau, Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, and Aoraki / Mount Cook. Along the way, you'll kayak, jet boat, hike, cruise, and helicopter your way through ever-shifting landscapes.

Spot sheep in the snow-covered farmland of New Zealand's South Island

New Zealand Winter Discovery - 14 Days

If you plan to visit New Zealand in June, July, or August, this two-week winter trip includes the best of the North and South islands, with seasonal adventures like skiing and whale watching adding a layer of richness. Your self-drive journey begins in Queenstown with a snow day and a Milford Sound / Piopiotahi tour. Journey north to Picton via Aoraki / Mount Cook, Christchurch, and Kaikoura, then cross between the islands by ferry to see the best of temperate Wellington, Rotorua, and Auckland.

Pause in Dunedin for spectacular coastal scenery and a castle and cruise tour

New Zealand South Island Explorer: Southern Alps, Glaciers, Lakes & Fjords - 14 Days

Buckle up for an epic 14-day self-drive adventure through New Zealand's South Island. Cruise Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, spot fur seals in Otago Harbor, and land on a snow-covered glacier. You'll also ride a jet boat on the Shotover River, meet penguins, explore glowworm caves in Te Anau, and paddle a Maori canoe. But it's not all nature and aquatics. There's also time for a wineries tour, food safari, and the historic Larnach Castle before ending with a world-class train trip over the Southern Alps.

See Milford Sound / Piopiotah by boat and plane on a scenic, all-day adventure

New Zealand North to South Highlights - 14 Days

Eager to explore the vast beauty of New Zealand without driving? This two-week itinerary uses convenient transfers, buses, and flights to ensure you experience the country's top highlights, from cities to countryside. Start in Auckland and travel south to the wonders of Rotorua before flying to the South Island. Take a dramatic bus trip from Christchurch to Lake Tekapo, then continue to Queenstown and Franz Josef / Waiau Glacier. Finally, ride the TranzAlpine Scenic Train back to the city.

Experience the verdant beauty of Kaikōura in style from a treetop luxury cabin (photo courtesy of Hapuku Lodge and Tree Houses)

1 Week in New Zealand - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

With one week in New Zealand, you can indulge in the finer things in life while admiring soaring mountains, lush vineyards, and turquoise lakes. Focusing on either the North Island or South Island ensures you have plenty of time to explore, and you can take your pick between a wellness escape, an off-the-beaten-path adventure, or an itinerary featuring wineries and farm-fresh cuisine. Other options include a luxury road trip from Christchurch to Queenstown and a highlights of the North Island tour.

See gannet colonies on the dramatic clifftops of Cape Kidnappers (photo courtesy of Rosewood Cape Kidnappers)

Luxury Highlights of New Zealand's North Island - 7 Days

Discover the highlights of New Zealand's North Island on this weeklong luxury tour. From Auckland, you'll hit the road south, staying at spectacular 5-star hotels as you make your way toward Wellington. Meet native wildlife, soar above Rotorua's geothermal landscapes on a floatplane, go wine tasting in Hawke's Bay, and take an Art Deco vintage car tour in Napier. Explore Maori culture as you go with a traditional spa experience at Wai Ariki and a visit to the Ngati Pikiao community.

Wraparound views of Lake Wakatipu from your Queenstown luxury lodge (photo courtesy of Azur Lodge)

New Zealand South Island Luxury Getaway - 7 Days

This luxury South Island road trip takes you from Christchurch to Queenstown in a relaxed fashion, enjoying exclusive tours and 5-star stays along the way. Soar above Mount Cook National Park and Milford Sound / Piopiotahi on scenic flights, take a helicopter to New Zealand's highest-altitude whisky bar, and explore the unspoiled Mackenzie region by 4WD. Other highlights include steaming onsen baths beneath the stars, exhilarating jet boat rides, and Kiwi barbecue feasts.

Visit farms and vineyards and take whale watching flights from Kaikōura

Luxury Food, Wine & Landscapes of New Zealand's South Island - 7 Days

Savor the best of New Zealand's world-class wines and farm-to-fork cuisine on this luxurious weeklong tour of the South Island. Begin in history-soaked Christchurch, then road trip north through coastal towns and wine regions. Take in the scenery with heli-picnics, whale watching flights, and boat trips in Kaikoura and Nelson, then taste fine wines in the renowned Marlborough region. Foodie highlights include visiting a kiwi farm and a cooking class with an acclaimed chef at Hapuku Kitchen.

Enjoy quiet luxury at Otahuna Lodge, in Christchurch (photo courtesy of Otahuna Lodge)

Luxury New Zealand Wellness Escape - 7 Days

Pamper yourself with a weeklong luxury wellness break in New Zealand's South Island. As you drive a scenic route from Christchurch to Nelson, you'll stay at boutique, 5-star retreats where decadent spa sessions, woodland hot tubs, yoga classes, and nature hikes await. Soak in geothermal pools at the award-winning Maruia Hot Springs and sail the idyllic Tasman Bay, pausing to explore isolated golden beaches where you can swim and relax.

Explore Mount Aspiring National Park from your base at the 5-star Minaret Station (photo courtesy of Minaret Station)

Off-the-Beaten-Track Luxury in New Zealand’s South Island - 7 Days

Step off the beaten track and explore remote corners of New Zealand's South Island with this weeklong luxury tour. On this self-drive adventure, travel from Christchurch to Queenstown, staying at far-flung, 5-star lodges where gourmet cuisine, heli-tours, and hot tubs beneath the stars await. Discover natural gems like Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, the Mackenzie Region, and Milford Sound / Piopiotahi by air, 4WD, and boat, traveling as far as the country's highest-altitude whisky hut.

Drive & Cycle New Zealand's South Island - 9 Days

Explore New Zealand by car and bike as you enjoy the freedom of the open road and trail. Learn some of Christchurch's history before you pedal around Lake Tekapo. Enjoy the scenic drive into Queenstown and discover bike trails along Lake Wanaka. Take a helicopter ride over Franz Josef Glacier and land on it for stunning views. Take in all the shades of blue at Hokitika Gorge, followed by a full day of mountain biking near Lake Kaniere, then hop aboard the TranzAlpine Train to return to Christchurch.

Spend time exploring the stunning Franz Josef Glacier on New Zealand's South Island

17 Days in New Zealand - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 17 days in New Zealand, you can experience the country's incredible landscapes without feeling rushed. If you're a first-time visitor, opt for a self-drive adventure that hits the highlights of Queenstown, Wellington, Rotorua, and Paihia. Or, slow down things and focus on the country's warm culture on a road trip to the cities, mountains, and lakes. Adrenaline seekers will love a trip that includes bungee jumping and zorbing, while hiking enthusiasts should focus on the South Island's pristine trails.

Travel through the Waimakariri Gorge on the scenic TranzAlpine Train

16 Days in New Zealand - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In New Zealand, it's possible to visit nine destinations in just over two weeks. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the Coromandel Peninsula and the glowworms in Te Anau, while first-timers will experience a combination of big-city attractions and Maori culture in Rotorua. Hike around Franz Josef Glacier on an active adventure or take a car ferry ride to Blenheim and the Marlborough wine region on a self-drive itinerary. Travelers seeking wilderness experiences should add Tongariro National Park.

Cruise across remote Doubtful Sound on New Zealand's South Island

New Zealand Panorama: Auckland to Christchurch - 17 Days

This 17-day New Zealand adventure ticks off the best of the North and South islands with extreme thrills, cultural connections, and unusual destinations and experiences. Land in Auckland, then drive south to Rotorua for a Maori feast and zorbing adventure. Swap to the South Island to experience Fiordland National Park, then chase thrills with bungee jumping, swings, and a jet boat in Queenstown. Helicopter to the Fox Glacier, then board the TranzAlpine Scenic Train for Christchurch.

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