A NEW ZEALAND HONEYMOON

Day 1 Arrive in Auckland

On arrival into Auckland, you will be met and whisked off to the ferry terminal for your transfer to the delightful Waiheke Island. Home on your New Zealand trip for the next three nights, this magical island is famed for it’s white, sandy beaches, glorious wineries and apple green surroundings. Stay at the Boatshed, a stunning boutique hotel that offers wholesome food, a rustic nautical charm, and a warming welcome. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure for you to sit back and relax. Explore the Boatshed or stroll down to the beach for a little afternoon sunshine and a swim. You won’t find sprawling resorts, or big-name hotels, but you will find cosy boutique B&Bs, homely cafes and restaurants, and a calmer pace of life.

Overnight: The Boatshed, Waiheke Island

Day 2 Day at leisure

Wake up to your first morning on Waiheke Island and a 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 growing vines. Wander along the charming streets, passing by mouth-watering cafes and restaurants. Perhaps head down to the quiet, peaceful beaches for a picnic and warming dip in the ocean, or head to one of the many growing wineries that pepper the island. Indulge in a delicious feast back at the Boatshed, all freshly made.

Overnight: The Boatshed, Waiheke Island

Day 3 Vineyard Exploration

Spend the day with your private guide discovering the very best vineyards in the region. The island is a paradise for wine lovers, thanks largely to it’s generous marine climate, rich soil and ardent wine makers with a passion for making the tastiest wines. Among those must–see wineries is Mudbrick, which is 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 and sip on Sauvignon and tuck in to a hearty lunch, before returning for your last evening at the Boatshed.

Overnight: The Boatshed, Waiheke Island

Day 4 Drive to Taupo

Wave goodbye to the Boatshed and Waiheke Island as you shuttle back to Auckland on the ferry. On arrival, collect your hire car for a magnificent road trip to Taupo, driving past stunning scenery unlike anything else. 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. Once finished, stop by the Green Dragon Inn for a hearty brew or two of the local ale, before continuing on the road to your hotel. Your home for the next three nights is Huka Lodge, which sits on the edge of the rich blue waters of the Waikato River. With a Scottish influence, listen out for the bellow of the bagpipes from the Highland piper on the lawn, and the dash of Scottish tartan that covers the floors. Steeped in a rich history, the lodge originally began as a fishing camp on the banks of the Waikato river, just under a century ago, and has hosted many notable guests from Royals to writers, including the Queen herself. Today the Lodge offers 25 luxury suites within the beautiful grounds, all nestled along the banks of the river. Relax with your Pre-Dinner Drinks before settling down to a delicious dinner created by the outstanding chefs in the restaurant.

Overnight: Huka Lodge, Taupo

Day 5 - 6 Days at leisure

Wake up and tuck into a delicious breakfast, before you prepare for a two days doing as much or as little as you wish. The lodge offers an assortment of remarkable activities to keep you busy. There is a wonderful guided hike in Taupo or a trip 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, take it easy with a leisurely game of tennis or some catch-and-release fishing, followed by a gentle garden walk. In the evening, enjoy an inviting dinner by the crackling fire in the restaurant, or plan a private meal in the snug library or outdoor rooms, each warmed by a roaring fire to keep the chill at bay.

Overnight: Huka Lodge, Taupo

Day 7 Fly to Christchurch

Today, make your way to Taupo airport for your flight to Christchurch, dropping your car back at the Hertz depot. On arrival, make your way to the Hertz depot to collect your hire car, and make your way to Akaroa and The Shepherd’s Lodge in Annandale. Remote and rustic with a charming hilltop aspect, Shepherd’s Cottage overlooks the sparkling waters of Pigeon Bay and the spectacular snow brushed peaks of the Kaikoura Ranges. Once providing warm respite for Annandale farm’s shepherds, the cosy cabin has been given a modern and luxury update. Snuggle up with one of the sheepskin throws by the glowing open brick fireplace, and settle in the cosy king-size bedroom nestled under the wooden eaves. Outside, the alfresco bath tub beckons, embraced by foliage to spare the blushes of the local grazing cattle. The perfect romantic bolt hole, the vast farmland surroundings offer a private and charming escape.

Overnight: Shepherd's Cottage, Annandale

Day 8 - 10 Days at leisure

The following three days are at leisure for you to enjoy. Whether you explore the rolling hills of Annandale, or head to the local farm and take part in farming life, there is plenty to do in this rural paradise. Take a tour around the farm, learning all about rural life in New Zealand, before enjoying a leisurely walk, taking in the beautiful landscape. Grab a kayak and head for the dazzling turquoise blue sea, and explore the coastal bays, keeping an eye out for pods of curious dolphins. In the afternoons, why not try your hand at some art or cooking from the comfort of the house or find your inner zen with some yoga.

Overnight: Shepherd's Cottage, Annandale

Day 11 Drive to the Ahuriri Valley

Wave goodbye to Annandale and make your way to the Ahuriri Valley and your next hotel, The Lindis. Gently nestled in to the valley, and seamlessly blending in to the natural shape and hues of the hills. Surrounded by 6,000 acres of scenic mountains, forests 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 by horse, mountain bike, vehicle or on foot. On arrival, relax in your Master Suite, with sweeping views of the granite mountains, and indulge in the freshest ingredients, stylishly whisked up into the tastiest feast.

Overnight: The Lindis, Ahuriri Valley

Day 12 - 13 Days at leisure

Enjoy two days unwinding with the wide-range of on-and-off site activities, exploring the heart of the valley. Ride across the farm land, soaking up the snowy-peaks of the Lindis Pass, or walk across the wetlands, through scenic trails. Whilst in the valley try your hand at some fishing in the crystalline waters of the Ahuriri River and discover more about the area from your instructor. In the evenings, enjoy the fresh and wholesome dinners in the cosy restaurant, and take a moment to look up into the inky blue sky and soak in the millions of twinkling stars, unpolluted from city lights. The staggering silence of the valley brings with it incredible tranquility and peace.

Overnight: The Lindis, Ahuriri Valley

Day 14 Drive to Queenstown

Take a moment and say good bye to the Ahuriri Valley and continue on your magical journey through New Zealand. Drive to the ‘adventure capital of the world’, Queenstown, which teeters on the edge of Lake Wakatipu and is surrounded by the most spectacular snow tipped mountains. Stay at Hulbert House, a beautifully restored Victorian villa dating back to 1888 and bursting with history and charm. The property brings you a distinctive coupling of historic elegance, and contemporary service, and is the perfect ending to your honeymoon. Regarded as one of the most beautiful luxury boutique lodges that Queenstown has to offer, it is simply a stone’s throw away from Queenstown’s vibrant and buzzing centre.

Overnight: Hulbert House, Queenstown

Day 15 Helicopter over Milford Sound

Tuck in to a delicious breakfast before a thrilling helicopter adventure to Milford Sound, passing over craggy granite mountains, and cotton dipped peaks. Milford Sound is a blend of remarkable natural features and stunning scenery, once described by Rudyard Kipling as the 'eighth wonder of the world'. Float past sheer cliffs and flowing waterfalls, and swoop low towards pristine lakes, with an Alpine landing. Bringing you up close and personal to the mountain ranges, breath in the smooth and crisp air. Explore untouched terrains, learning about the history of the area, before settling down to a delicious picnic lunch. When ready, return to Queenstown and enjoy the rest of you day, doing as much or as little as you please.

Overnight: Hulbert House, Queenstown

Day 16 Honey and Wine Tour

Wake up to a full day ahead, delving into the art of wine and honey with your private guide. New Zealand is famous for it’s array of wines, from sweet and subtle Sauvignons to zesty and punchy Pinots, as well as its ultra-healthy Manuka honey. Begin with a sugary sweet tasting experience of five artisan honey’s, discovering more about the intricate process and diverse flora that give each such unique flavour. Pop by the bee hives and have a little peak inside, watching as these diligent and energetic bees work together, creating the rich golden honey we adore so much. With your bee keeper choose from creating your own beeswax candles and soaps or making your very own honey to take home as a reminder of your wonderful honeymoon. When ready continue to Gibbston Valley, famous for its leafy green vines and rolling hills, and indulge in an afternoon sipping on the finest wines. Stop at one of the wineries and fill up on a tasty and tantalizing lunch paired with a selection of the very best tipples, learning more about the fertile soil and methods that create such heavenly wines.

Overnight: Hulbert House, Queenstown

Day 17 Day at Leisure

Enjoy the last day of your New Zealand Honeymoon in Queenstown with a day at leisure. Depending how you are feeling, visit one of the beautiful beaches with a picnic and bottle of wine, and relax or head for the skies in the cable car, for panoramic views over the city and surrounding landscape. Grab a coffee in the heart of the city, and maybe a spot of brunch, before wandering around and soaking up the energetic atmosphere.

Overnight: Hulbert House, Queenstown

Day 18 Head home

Wave a fond farewell to your New Zealand vacation and the remarkable journey you have experienced in this rugged and serene country, and make your way to the airport, dropping the car off before departing home.