New Zealanders thrive in the great outdoors, and this mindset is infectious for visitors.
Dramatic landscapes, thrilling activities, and expansive wilderness beckon one from the doorstep, breathing in the pure, fresh air and pondering what adventures may fill your day.
This exhilarating itinerary harnesses all the awe and wonder of this spectacular nation, providing endless excitement as it whisks you across the country by boat, helicopter, quad bike, and on foot. For adventure enthusiasts, it is a journey of pure joy, enveloped in some of the post pristine environments found anywhere on the planet.
Highlights
- Take in all the excitement of ‘the adventure capital of the world’, Queenstown
- Enjoy a portfolio of exhilarating experiences
- Jet boat along winding glacial rivers surrounded by towering mountains
- Play one of the most extreme rounds of golf on the planet
- Fly by helicopter into the mountains for a glacier picnic
- Try your hand at the delicate art of fly fishing
- Climb the slopes and waterfalls of the Southern Alps
Itinerary
DAY 1
Arrival: Aukland – Queenstown
On arrival at Auckland International Airport, you will be met by a representative who will transfer you by private vehicle to the domestic airport prior to your onward flight to Queenstown.
On arrival at Queenstown Airport, you will be driven by private transfer to your first stunning accommodation: Eichardt’s Private Hotel. Rest and relax in preparation for the exhilarating adventures ahead.
DAY 2
Queenstown Guided Adventure Day
A spectacular day of excitement awaits for the first full day of your journey. Board the Shotover Jet for one of the most thrilling boat rides of your life, propelling you along the winding river of the impressive Shotover Canyon. Returning to land, you will have time to catch your breath with a more sedate, though fascinating tour through the nearby historic gold mining settlement of Arrowtown.
Continuing the adventure, you will have the option to take the 141-foot (43m) plunge from Kawarau Bridge, the birthplace of bungy jumping, or descend with a little more grace on the Kawarau Zipride.
Conclude your adrenaline-fuelled day with an exciting off-road excursion through the stunning Wakatipu Valley. Traversing all manner of terrain, this thrill ride will also include fascinating stories and facts from your informative and knowledgeable guide and driver.
DAYS 3
Routeburn Track Hike
Enjoy a day hiking one of New Zealand’s most famous alpine walks with stunning vistas of sweeping valleys below and majestic peaks above.
As you walk up the wide smooth track to Routeburn Flats your guide will point out the unique flora and birdlife of the Routeburn Valley. Enjoy a picnic lunch at Routeburn Flats Hut while taking in the splendor of the surrounding mountains before heading on to the Routeburn Falls or meandering home. The Routeburn Track traverses wild and scenic mountain country between the Hollyford and Dart Valleys at the base of New Zealand’s Southern Alps. Since the 1880s it has proved to be one of the most accessible and popular journeys into New Zealand’s forests and mountains.
DAY 4
Leisure Day with Plenty of Choice
Your activities today are completely at your discretion, but there is always plenty to choose from in this land of adventure.
Board a helicopter for a guided hike in the glacial mountains or to tee off on a round of heli-golf. Relive the excitement of yesterday with another jetboat ride or bungee jump, or descend down waterfalls and gorges for a spot of canyoning.
You are equally as welcome to enjoy a more relaxed day to yourself, exploring the nearby towns at leisure or enjoying the decadent spa and cuisine of your luxurious residence.
DAY 5
Waterfall Climb
Today you will gain a unique perspective of one of New Zealand’s myriad waterfalls, ascending the cascading torrents of Via Ferrata on a four-hour waterfall tour.
This is New Zealand’s only waterfall climb and Wanaka’s newest adventure. After learning safety skills, you will begin your climb alongside a spectacular waterfall on the Via Ferrata, scaling ladder rungs and crossing wire bridges. There are hidden pools beneath towering falls, picnic swimming spots along the way and the views of the surrounding mountains and lakes are surreal. The descent is by trail with panoramic views towards Wanaka.
DAY 6
Fiordland Helicopter Excursion
Explore this famously remote and untouched part of New Zealand by helicopter. Experience an eagle’s perspective of 2,000-foot (610m) waterfalls, traversing the majestic fiords, landing amongst herds of New Zealand fur seals, foraging for fresh lobster, hovering over glaciers, and landing on snowcapped summits for inimitable photo moments. Enjoy a gourmet barbecue picnic lunch on the mountain skyline before being flown back to an exquisite evening at Minaret Station Alpine Lodge, your accommodation for the night.
This is a completely tailored experience and will unquestionably be a highlight of your trip.
DAY 7
Taupo Transfer & Fishing Day
Today you will be collected from your lodge for the transfer to Taupo on the North Island. With a warmer climate and serene landscapes, Taupo’s tranquil landscapes welcome you with verdant hillsides and babbling rivers.
After settling into the quaint yet luxurious Huka Lodge, an experienced and eager fly fishing guide will take you to a remote backcountry stream. Your guide will share his knowledge of the stream pool by pool as you cast for rainbow and brown trout in crystal clear pools.
DAY 8
Mountain Excursion by Helicopter & Mountain Bike
Combine the thrill of landing on Mount Tarawera, the site of the largest eruption in New Zealand’s living memory, with a flight that includes spectacular aerial views of the pristine crater lakes, stunning waterfalls, and the vibrant Waimangu and Wai-O-Tapu geothermal reserves.
Enjoy a sumptuous picnic at an exclusive venue on top of Mount Tarawera before continuing your flight to Orakei Korako, also known as “the hidden valley”. Here you will board a ferry to cross the river and begin a guided 60-minute land-based tour. Experience hot springs, gushing geysers, and the natural beauty of this geothermal wonderland. Your flight will include the stunning Huka Falls, the Craters of the Moon geothermal valley, and Mount Ngauruhoe – the site used as Mount Doom in Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings movies.
Rotorua has some of the best mountain biking on this planet, and upon landing, your exciting excursion continues in the Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest, with over 60 miles (100km) of purpose-built trails past beautiful lakes and thermal areas.
Your ride today is very much catered to suit your abilities and preferences, and after a short warm-up, you can choose from the many options to suit your skill and fitness level, providing a fantastic day out.
DAY 9
Waitomo Abseiling & Glowworm Adventure
Abseil 330 feet (100m) into the lost world of the Waitomo Caves. Descend slowly as the mist-filtered light creates a surreal illumination of the strange plants and formations. The 30-minute abseil encapsulates the beauty of this iconic cavern. Once down you will embark on your journey back to the surface through a spectacular cave with massive vaults, glowworms, gigantic flowstone formations, and caverns.
DAY 10
Departure
Your electrifying adventure concludes today, and you will be transported by private vehicle to Taupo Airport for the short flight to Aukland International Airport and your journey home.