• New Zealand Luxury Highlights

New Zealand Luxury Highlights

This 15 day Self Drive NZ itinerary is truly unique and ideal for couples, especially those on their honeymoon that want to enjoy New Zealand with a little luxury. We’ve combined luxury  accommodation with selected sightseeing operators that offer small intimate, unique tours giving you the best New Zealand experience.   You won’t go home disappointed with this package, it includes it all – Wine, Flora & Fauna, Maori Culture, beautiful golden beaches, the famous Tranzalpine Train, Glaciers, Stargazing, Jetboat and top it all off with a Scenic Helicopter Flight to Milford Sound.

Highlights: Waiheke Island Wine Tour, Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Farm – Forest & Freshwater Tour, Maori Hangi & Cultural Show, Abel Tasman Cruise & Lunch, Tranzalpine Train, Franz Josef Glacier Valley Walk, Milford Sound Heli Trip with Cruise, Sky Stargazing Tour and Glacier Jetboat Ride.  

Day By Day

1

Kia Ora, Welcome to Auckland

Arrive into Auckland, where you will be met and transferred to your city hotel.

Auckland city offers world-class shopping, restaurants, cafes, bars and galleries which are encircled by wine regions, stunning beaches, pristine rainforest and the magnificent Hauraki Gulf.

The remainder of the day is yours to explore.

Accommodation:
Hilton Hotel, Deluxe Waterview Room with Full Breakfast *

 This waterfront hotel has sundecks, private balconies and walls of windows for views of the harbour you won’t find anywhere else. Located a short walk from the central business district and Quay Street restaurants, shops and nightlife.  Each guest room and suite has floor-to-ceiling windows and a balcony.  Head for the 4th Floor for one of the most spectacular sights in town, the heated outdoor lap pool has a window at one end for amazing views of the harbour – the only underwater viewing point in Auckland.

 *If you are arriving early from an International Flight, talk to us about pre-registering your room for guaranteed access on your arrival. (at additional cost)

2

Auckland

Board your cruise to Waiheke Island, where on arrival you will be met by your knowledgeable and local guide.   During your Wine Tour, enjoy the scenic sights of Waiheke Island, your guide will offer commentary about the Island, its people and it’s produce.   Visit three of the Islands top boutique vineyards for tasting and enjoy a two-hour lunch stop at a village, beachside café or one of our world class vineyard restaurants (lunch additional).

Highlights:

  • Visit Waiheke Island, a beautiful scenic Island and learn about it’s people and it’s wine
  • Taste award winning wines from the Islands top vineyards

Accommodation:
Hilton Hotel, Deluxe Waterview Room with Full Breakfast

3

Auckland to Waitomo, Rotorua

Today’s Drive Time & Distance:
Auckland/Waitomo, 2.5 hours, 224km’s (139 miles)
And Waitomo/Rotorua, 2 hours, 139 km’s (86 miles)

Collect your Intermediate Sedan rental vehicle (Holden Cruze or similar) with all-inclusive insurance

Passengers: 5
Bags: 2 x Large
Key Features: Automatic Transmission, 4 Door Sedan, Air Conditioning and Dual Airbags.

Please contact us if you would like to upgrade your vehicle type to a larger vehicle or SUV/4WD (at additional cost).

Make your way to Rotorua, via Waitomo.

At Waitomo, visit the Glowworm Caves and enjoy a guided tour of over 250 metres of stunning underground scenery including the impressive Cathedral.  Then, a boat trip will take you through the spectacular Glowworm Grotto where you will glide silently through the starry wonderland of the Grotto, fascinated by these tiny glowworms that light your way.

Continue through to Rotorua, a volcanic wonderland, that is rich in Maori culture and history.

This evening, experience a challenge by Maori warriors, a karanga (call) from the women welcoming you onto the marae, and a whaikorero (welcome speech). Following the formal elements of this ceremony, relax and enjoy the beautiful waiata (songs), the world-renowned haka (challenge), and the elegant poi dance.   You will have a chance to participate before sitting down to enjoy traditional and indigenous hangi dinner (earth oven cooked meal).   Following dessert, return into the park and enjoy inspired delicacies and a hot drink beside the Pohutu geyser.

Highlights:

  • Explore the starry wonderland of Waitomo Caves and it’s Grotto.
  • Be captivated by our traditional Maori Culture with songs, dance and hangi meal.

Accommodation:
Regent of Rotorua Boutique Hotel & Spa, Superior Room with Full Breakfast

The Regent of Rotorua Boutique Hotel & Spa redefines modern hospitality with a visionary blend of modern design, luxurious facilities and bespoke service to inspire imaginative travellers. Located in the heart of Rotorua, within close walking distance of the lakefront and adjacent to the eating precinct.

4

Rotorua

Join your expert guide for your Farm, Forest & Freshwater Tour which takes in a world-class “environmentally friendly” dairy farm, traverses one of the world’s largest plantation forests and finishes with lunch and a half day walk in the Whirinaki Forest.

Whirinaki Forest is regarded as one of the country’s finest rainforest walks with the best example of lowland podocarp forest.   Your guide will take you into the heart of the rainforest where you will find towering 700 year old rimu, totara, matai, miro and kahikatea podocarp tree species.

Highlights:

  • Learn about a dairy farm that has changed its ways, to become a world class environmentally friendly farm.
  • Enjoy native birds and their birdsong while strolling in the Whirinaki Forest.

Accommodation:
Regent of Rotorua Boutique Hotel & Spa, Superior Room with Full Breakfast

5

Rotorua to Nelson

Return you rental vehicle to Rotorua Airport and connect with your internal flight to Nelson (flight not included).   Once in Nelson, collect your rental vehicle and make your way to your hotel.

Accommodation:
Rutherford Hotel, Premium Room with Full Breakfast

The hotel boasts a prime spot only minutes walk from Nelson’s landmark cathedral and main shopping district.  Explore the great indoors and soak up the comforts of the hotel:  enjoy a leisurely lap in the pool, relax in the steamy sauna, or workout in the gymnasium.

6

Abel Tasman National Park Day Trip

Today’s Drive Time & Distance: 1 hour, 61 km’s (38 miles) each way.

Drive to Stephens Bay, located in the Abel Tasman National Park to enjoy your scenic cruise, kayaking, swimming and bush walk adventure all in one day, along with visiting the Tonga Island Marine Reserve. The comfortable launch carries kayaks, snorkeling gear and towels and includes gourmet lunch, snacks and refreshments. Local beer and wine are complimentary with lunch.

Highlights:

  • Cruise, walk or kayak the stunning  coastline of the Abel Tasman National Park.
  • Swim, snorkel or relax at the golden beaches and bays.
  • A short bush walk takes in an historic Maori Pah Site and various native birds.

Accommodation:
Rutherford Hotel, Premium Room with Full Breakfast

7

Nelson to Christchurch

Today’s Travel Time & Distance: 5.5 hours, 450km’s (280 miles)

Leaving Nelson, you will travel through the Lewis Pass or take the coastal route through Kaikoura to Christchurch. Following the 2010-2011 earthquakes, Christchurch has re-emerged as a vibrant and ever-changing city.

Accommodation:
The George Hotel, Premium Executive Room with Full Breakfast

Overlooking the picturesque Hagley Park and River Avon and close to the vibrant cultural precinct this boutique luxury hotel is the only Christchurch hotel that offers a one-to-one staff to guest ratio, offering you impeccable service.   The George typifies luxury at every level. Extensive facilities, comprehensive service, excellent quality and attention to detail.   With two award-winning restaurants; 50 Bistro and Pescatore a beautiful setting and 5-star comfort The George is delightfully yours.

8

Christchurch to Greymouth, Franz Josef

Today’s Drive Time & Distance: 2.5 hours, 177km’s (110 miles)

Leaving your car with the hotel, you will transfer by private vehicle to the Railway Station and board the Tranzalpine Train, one of the world’s great train journeys.

The train travels coast to coast through forests and farmland and over the spectacular Southern Alps. It offers the comfort of world class carriages and allows passengers to see the fields of the Canterbury Plains and farmland, followed by the spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River. The train then climbs into the majestic Southern Alps to Arthurs Pass National Park, before descending through lush beech rainforest to the West Coast town of Greymouth.

From Greymouth, collect your rental vehicle and travel south to Franz Josef.

Highlights:

  • Experience one of the world’s great train journeys, The Tranzalpine.
  • Travel through spectacular scenery of farmland, rivers, forest and over the Southern Alps.

Accommodation:
Te Waonui Forest Retreat, Deluxe Room with Five Course Dinner and Full Breakfast

Encircled by native bush, it’s only natural to find Te Waonui Forest Retreat at the cutting edge of sustainable accommodation. Natural lighting is abundant, building materials have been chosen to minimise environmental impact, and the Retreat’s carbon footprint is reduced with energy efficient design. Furniture and fittings incorporate natural wool carpets, organic cotton bedspreads and even possum skin cushioning, in-keeping with the character of the region.   The sustainable, eco-friendly feel is enhanced by soft timbered detailing, natural colour schemes and recycled local materials to make the hotel at one with its magical surroundings.

9

Franz Josef

Meet your guide this morning for your Glacier Valley Walk, where you will walk alongside the mighty Waiho River bed which follows the glaciers path of retreat in this remarkable landscape.  Near the terminal face, cross over the public barriers and access their exclusive trails, where after a brief climb you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the rapidly changing terminal face of the glacier.

Please note this trip does not take you onto the ice, but it does go right up to the ice, if conditions are safe to do so.

Highlights:

  • An amazing guided walk to the Terminal Face, Franz Josef Glacier.

Accommodation:
Te Waonui Forest Retreat, Deluxe Room with Full Breakfast

10

Franz Josef to Queenstown

Today’s Drive Time & Distance: 5.5 hours, 352km’s (218 miles)

Travel south to Fox Glacier.  Time permitting we would suggest a short walk to Lake Matheson.  Continue along the coast to Haast before turning inland through Wanaka, and following Lake Wakatipu into Queenstown.

Accommodation:
The Rees Hotel, Executive Lakeview Room with Full Breakfast 

The Rees Hotel is a sophisticated five-star hotel situated right on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.  The Rees offers a variety of spacious and luxurious accommodation with terraces, showcasing spectacular views across Lake Wakatipu to the alpine panorama of the Remarkable Mountain range.  The many exceptional features at The Rees Hotel include a library of rare books and art, courtesy shuttle to/from Queenstown town centre, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, movies and local telephone calls, a fully-equipped gymnasium, secure undercover parking, electric car-charging station and its own private beach and wharf accessing jet-boat and water taxi services.

11

Milford Sound Day Trip

Meet your pilot and board your helicopter, bound for Milford Sound today.  On the flight into Milford, you will enjoy views of mountains, lakes and fiords of Fiordland National Park. Once in Milford, connect with Mitre Peak Cruises and cruise the length of the fiord taking in the Lady Bowen & Stirling waterfalls. You might even get to see seals, dolphins and the rare Fiordland Crested Penguins. Return to Queenstown by helicopter with an alpine landing for the ultimate experience.

Highlights:

  • A spectacular flight to the stunning Milford Sound, Fiordland National Park.
  • Take in the waterfalls and wildlife during your Milford Cruise.
  • Experience a remote alpine landing by helicopter.

Accommodation:
The Rees Hotel, Executive Lakeview Room with Full Breakfast 

12

Queenstown

Today is at leisure.

Optional Activities:
Whether its adrenaline adventures or a relaxing day your after, we would be happy to recommend a number of activities suitable.

Accommodation:
The Rees Hotel, Executive Lakeview Room with Full Breakfast 

13

Queenstown to Mount Cook

Today’s Drive Time & Distance: 3 hours, 255km’s (158 miles)

Travel through to Mount Cook Aoraki, the highest mountain in New Zealand at 3,764 metres.

Mount Cook is far from the city lights and therefore has some of the darkest skies in New Zealand, perfect for viewing the night sky. In June 2012 the Aoraki Mackenzie region, encompassing Mount Cook Village, was approved as one of only a few International Dark Sky Reserves (IDSR) worldwide. It is the world’s largest gold rated IDSR, meaning the darkness of our night skies is almost unbeatable!

This evening, begin with an introduction and orientation in the Theatre Planetarium before their informative astronomy guides take you to an outdoor stargazing site. Use state of the art telescopes, high powered binoculars and the naked eye to put your newly acquired knowledge into practise, identifying and exploring different elements of the spectacular southern sky.

Accommodation: 
The Hermitage, Premium Plus Room with Full Breakfast

The main Hermitage Hotel is the perfect ‘base camp’ to discover your ‘Peak’ experience and has a range of room types. All 162 rooms have ensuites, tea and coffee making facilities, satellite TV and fridges. All dining experiences offer the freshest and finest in New Zealand produce.

14

Mount Cook to Christchurch

Today’s Drive Time & Distance: 4 hours, 330km’s (205 miles)

Before departing Mt Cook, enjoy a three hour Glacier Jetboat Ride which takes you on an up-close encounter with icebergs, on the Tasman glacial terminal lake.  Enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and some of the best photographic opportunities as well. Your guide will give you an in-depth interpretation of glaciation, terminal lake formation, plate tectonics and a brief coverage of local and climbing history, flora & fauna leaving you with not just an insight into the Tasman Glacier but to the creation of New Zealand.

Continue to Christchurch.

Accommodation:
The George Hotel, Premium Executive Room with Full Breakfast

15

Depart Christchurch

This morning, explore Christchurch or grab your last minute gifts.    Return your vehicle to Christchurch Airport and connect with your departure flight. (flight not included).

Queenstown Luxury Getaway

This is the perfect luxury getaway to Queenstown.  Ideal for couples, this package takes with Queenstown’s best attractions – Jetboat Ride, Wine Tour and an unforgettable scenic helicopter flight to Milford Sound.

Highlights: Shotover/Kawarau Jet Ride Boat, Winery Tour with Lunch and Milford Sound Heli Trip with Cruise.  

Day By Day

1

Welcome to Queenstown

Arrive into Queenstown, where you will be met and transferred by private vehicle to your accommodation

From your accommodation this afternoon, you will be collected from the jetty for your jet boat ride. Enjoy 60 minutes of unforgettable thrills, spins and exhilaration across three waterways in one of the world’s most stunning locations. Cross the crystal clear Lake Wakatipu and journey under the Kawarau Falls Bridge onto the deep green waters of the Kawarau River.  Complete with 360 degree spins, your boat will navigate the fast–moving currents of the narrow, braided Shotover River, travelling up shallow channels in water that’s less than 10 centimetres deep in places.

Highlights:

  • Unforgettable Jetboat Ride taking in Lake Wakatipu, Kawarau & Shotover Rivers

Accommodation:
The Rees Hotel, Executive Lakeview Room with Full Breakfast 

The Rees Hotel is a sophisticated five-star hotel situated right on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.  The Rees offers a variety of spacious and luxurious accommodation with terraces, showcasing spectacular views across Lake Wakatipu to the alpine panorama of the Remarkable Mountain range.  The many exceptional features at The Rees Hotel include a library of rare books and art, courtesy shuttle to/from Queenstown town centre, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, movies and local telephone calls, a fully-equipped gymnasium, secure undercover parking, electric car-charging station and its own private beach and wharf accessing jet-boat and water taxi services.

2

Milford Sound Day Trip

Meet your pilot and board your helicopter, bound for Milford Sound today.  On the flight into Milford, you will enjoy views of mountains, lakes and fiords of Fiordland National Park. Once in Milford, connect with Mitre Peak Cruises and cruise the length of the fiord taking in the Lady Bowen & Stirling waterfalls. You might even get to see seals, dolphins and the rare Fiordland Crested Penguins. Return to Queenstown by helicopter with an alpine landing for the ultimate experience.

Highlights:

  • A spectacular flight to the stunning Milford Sound, Fiordland National Park.
  • Take in the waterfalls and wildlife during your Milford Cruise.
  • Experience a remote alpine landing by helicopter.

Accommodation:
The Rees Hotel, Executive Lakeview Room with Full Breakfast 

3

Queenstown

Enjoy an afternoon amongst the boutique vineyards and splendid alpine scenery of Central Otago. Enjoy visits to four premium wineries over two contrasting wine sub-regions, learn about the wine and pioneering history of the area, and visit the historic precinct of Old Cromwell (time and weather permitting). Your tour also includes a delightful shared platter lunch and a premium glass of wine.

Highlights:

  • Wine Tastings at Four Boutique  Vineyards
  • Shared Platter Lunch & Glass of Wine
  • Visit Central Otago including Old Cromwell

Accommodation:
The Rees Hotel, Executive Lakeview Room with Full Breakfast 

4

Depart Queenstown

This morning, explore Queenstown or  take in some last minute shopping.   Transfer to Queenstown Airport to connect with your departure flight. (flight not included).

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Mount Cook

Visit New Zealand's Aoraki Mt Cook, our highest peak. It stands at 3724 metres ... Read more

Contact Details

Phone Us
+64 3 3555 990
+64 21 461 971

Our Physical Address
21 Verona Place, Ohoka
Christchurch 7692
New Zealand

Our Postal Address
PO Box 36437, Merivale
Christchurch 8146
New Zealand

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Tour Inclusions

15 Day New Zealand Self Drive Itinerary

Terms & Conditions

Booking Terms & Conditions:

Currency

All pricing is in New Zealand Dollars and includes 15% GST (Goods & Services Tax).

Pricing

Pricing is subject to availability and confirmation of the stated itinerary at time of booking.  If we are unable to confirm the stated hotels and services, we will endeavour to confirm substitutes at similar rates, however additional costs may apply.

Rental Car Terms & Conditions:

Inclusions: unlimited kilometres, airport/ferry collection fee, full insurance (subject to reduced excess), front windscreen cover, personal accident insurance, guaranteed replacement vehicle in case of accident.

Exclusions: insurance excess reduction of $345.00 including GST (note, standard insurance excess is $3,450.00 including GST), bond, petrol costs, one way fee ($57.50), optional extras, (all additional expenses to be paid direct)

Payment Policy

We do require a non-refundable deposit of NZD$250.00 per person before we go ahead with securing any reservations.

In addition, some of our suppliers may require further deposits to cover their strict cancellation policies, in this case we would advise you at the time of quoting and confirming your itinerary.

The balance of your booking would be required 45 days prior to your travel date.   If you book inside 45 days, full payment would be required at time of booking.

Payment can be made by electronic wire transfer and should include the additional NZD $25.00 bank fee.   We also accept Visa and Mastercard at an additional fee of 3.1%.

Bank Account Details

Bank Name & Address: Westpac Bank, Mid City Queen Street, Auckland, New Zealand

Account Name: Inspired New Zealand Travel

BSB Number: 03-0296

Account Number: 0011146-000

Swift/Routing Code: WPACNZ2W 

Amendments

We are happy to amend your itinerary and dates, however please keep in mind that some of the original services may not be available for your new dates, which may incur additional costs for substituted services.   Amendment fees may apply with multiple changes.

Cancellation Fees

Once Confirmed               Non-refundable Deposit of NZD $250.00 per person

Inside 45 – 21 Days          A Cancellation fee of 30% of your total booking value will apply, along with any cancellation fees applied by our accommodation, sightseeing and other providers.

Inside 20 – 8 days             A Cancellation fee of 50% of your total booking value will apply, along with any cancellation fees applied by our accommodation, sightseeing and other providers.

Inside 7 Days                      Full Cancellations, 100% charge

We will however do our very best to recover and minimise these cancellation fees but recommend that you purchase Travel Insurance to cover yourself.

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