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Arrive
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Day 1 Arrive in Auckland
On arrival in Auckland, you will be met at the airport and whisked off to the ferry terminal for your transfer to the delightful Waiheke Island. This magical island is famed for its white, sandy beaches, glorious wineries and verdant surroundings. Stay at the Boatshed, a stunning boutique hotel that offers wholesome food, a rustic nautical charm, and a warming welcome. The balance of the day is at leisure for you to recover from the journey, enjoy the wonderful surroundings and hospitality of The Boatshed or stroll down to the beach for an afternoon swim.
Overnight: The Boatshed
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Day 2 Free time on Waiheke Island
Wake up to your first morning on Waiheke Island and enjoy a day exploring independently. Waiheke is a rural escape and culinary capital, offering the freshest fish, locally sourced meats and produce, as well as rolling hills full of vines. Discover the charming streets dotted with cafes, restaurants and galleries. Perhaps head down to a peaceful beach for a picnic and a dip in the ocean, or discover some of the many superb wineries to be found on the island.
Overnight: The Boatshed
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Day 3 Vineyard Exploration
Spend the day with your private guide discovering the very best vineyards on Waiheke Island. The island is a paradise for wine lovers, thanks largely to its generous marine climate, rich soil and passionate wine producers. Among the must-see wineries is Mudbrick, set in a stunning location with sweeping views over the bay and Auckland skyline. Learn about the mastery of winemaking, trying out a variety from across Waiheke. Sit back, sip on Sauvignon and feast on a delicious lunch before returning for your last evening at The Boatshed.
Overnight: The Boatshed
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Day 4 Drive to Taupo
Wave goodbye to Waiheke Island as you to take a breathtaking helicopter flight back to Auckland. On arrival, collect your hire car for a magnificent road trip to Taupo, driving past stunning scenery. En route, stop by The Shire and enjoy a private tour of the Hobbiton set, experiencing the magic of this remarkable site and the surrounding lush green landscape. Continue on to the exceptional Huka Lodge, which overlooks the deep blue waters of the Waikato River. Steeped in history, the lodge has welcomed notable guests over many years including Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. An extensive refurbishment has brought generous doses of contemporary luxury to the lodge, whilst retaining the original heritage and charm of this New Zealand icon.
Overnight: Huka Lodge
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Day 5 - 6 Taupo activities from Huka Lodge
Enjoy two full days dedicated to Taupo explorations from your fabulous base at Huka Lodge. You could embark upon a spectacular guided hike in Taupo, a visit to Huka Falls and an exhilarating Jet Boat Ride. Sail past sheer cliffs, natural hot springs, and experience the best water-level view of Huka. Alternatively, play a leisurely game of tennis or stroll through the tranquil gardens. Evenings are spent enjoying the exceptional cuisine on offer at the lodge, and fine New Zealand wines.
Overnight: Huka Lodge
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Day 7 To Fiordland
Today, make your way to Taupo airport for your flight to Queenstown. From here, a delightful two-hour drive takes you into the South Island's spectacular Fiordland region and your scenic luxury base at Fiordland Lodge. Enjoy a free afternoon to begin settling in to your dazzling natural surroundings.
Overnight: Fiordland Lodge
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Day 8 Milford Sound
Set out to discover one of the highlights of the South Island - Milford Sound. On one of the smallest and most intimate cruises available in the national park, you will spend the morning on the water taking in the magical vistas of waterfalls cascading down the sheer rock and marine birds flitting across the horizon dominated by Mitre's Peak. Conclude your morning with lunch at one of the finest restaurants in the area before returning to Fiordland Lodge, making a stop at the beautiful Mirror Lake along the way.
Overnight: Fiordland Lodge
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Day 9 Kepler Track Heli Hike
One the best ways to appreciate the rugged, otherworldy scenery of the South Island is from the air, and that is how your day will begin. Soar over lakes and forests by helicopter, reaching the Mount Luxmore area where you will set out on a fabulous guided hike that showcases the wonderfully varied scenery of the region. Reaching the sandy beach of Brod Bay, a scenic boat cruise takes you back to Te Anau.
Overnight: Fiordland Lodge
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Day 10 Helicopter flight over Dusky Sound
Comprised of over 350 islands and islets, far-flung Dusky Sound is New Zealand's largest sound and one of its most blissfully remote. Flying over the sound by helicopter is the best way to appreciate its scale and beauty, as you look down over searing fiords and fly low into a hanging valley with its own lake and waterfall. Two landings are made during your unforgettable helicopter flight, which returns to Fiordland Lodge charting a stunning course over the main divide of the Southern Alps.
Overnight: Fiordland Lodge
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Day 11 Drive to the Ahuriri Valley
Leaving Fiordland behind, make your way to the Ahuriri Valley and your next hotel, The Lindis. Surrounded by 6,000 acres of forests, mountains and lakes, this stylishly designed boutique hotel is also one of the world's top fly-fishing locations. There is plenty of opportunity to explore the surrounding landscape on horse back, mountain bike and on scenic hikes. You can also enjoy fabulous cuisine, and accommodation in stunning suites looking out to the granite mountains.
Overnight: The Lindis
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Day 12 - 13 Activities from The Lindis
Enjoy two full days immersed in the invigorating surroundings of the Ahuriri Valley. Ride across the rolling expanses of farmland, soaking up the snowy-peaks of the Lindis Pass, or discover scenic trails through the forest and wetlands. Try your hand at fly fishing in the crystalline waters of the Ahuriri River, hone your archery skills or enjoy a gourmet picnic in an utterly magical location. In the evening, absorb panoramas of the unpolluted night skies lit up by millions of twinkling stars, and take in the unmatched silence and serenity of the valley.
Overnight: The Lindis
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Day 14 To the Bay of Islands
After a final breakfast at the Lindis, drive to Queenstown in time for your flight to Keri Keri in the Bay of Islands. This laidback coastal haven on the North Island is the perfect place to round off your New Zealand adventure with some relaxation on the Pacific Coast.
Overnight: Kauri Cliffs
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Day 15 - 16 Relaxation or adventures in the Bay of Islands
Rosewood Kauri Cliffs is the ideal spot to unwind and be pampered in the picturesque setting of the Bay of Islands. By now, you might be ready for a spell of complete relaxation, spending time by the pool, on one of the resort's three private beaches or ensconced in the spa. Those seeking a little more exertion can enjoy the championship golf course, tennis and pickleball courts or venture further afield with riding, fishing and ATV adventures.
Overnight: Kauri Cliffs
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Day 17 Depart
Fly back to Auckland in time for your international flight home.
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Depart
