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Private Journeys to New Zealand

Epic Landscapes, Quiet Luxury, Adventure with Space to Breathe

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Home > Private Journey > New Zealand
New Zealand feels cinematic, but what lingers is not only the drama of the scenery. It is the sense of openness, the generosity of scale, and the way sophisticated lodges, vineyards, wilderness, and Māori culture can be woven into one beautifully varied journey. From alpine peaks to rolling farmland, coastal drives to geothermal wonders, this is a country that invites movement and rewards curiosity.

The North Island offers culture, wine, geothermal landscapes, and vibrant city life in places like Auckland, Rotorua, Hawke’s Bay, and Wellington. The South Island shifts into a more dramatic register, with Marlborough, Wanaka, Queenstown, Fiordland, and the Southern Alps delivering some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. It is ideal for self drive exploration, privately guided journeys, or lodge to lodge travel.

Featured Private Journey Itineraries

Top Experiences • Explore both North and South Island for the fullest sense of the country• Pair cities, vineyards, and culture with dramatic mountain and coastal landscapes• Cruise or fly into Fiordland for one of the world’s great natural spectacles• Stay in luxury lodges with immersive access to the outdoors• Experience hiking, cycling, wildlife, food, and wine at a beautifully manageable pace
Highlights of New Zealand – 14 Days
Auckland • Rotorua • Taupo • Wellington • Queenstown • Milford Sound • Mount Cook • Christchurch
Essence of New Zealand – 8 Days
Auckland • Rotorua • Queenstown • Milford Sound

Top Experiences

We like to highlight experiences that capture the essence of each destination and reflect what’s trending with today’s curious travellers. Each one offers a special glimpse into the character of the country and can be woven into your custom itinerary.
Experience hiking, cycling, wildlife, food, and wine at a beautifully manageable pace
Stay in luxury lodges with immersive access to the outdoors
Cruise or fly into Fiordland for one of the world’s great natural spectacles
Pair cities, vineyards, and culture with dramatic mountain and coastal landscapes
Explore both North and South Island for the fullest sense of the country

Good to Know

New Zealand is made for road journeys and scenic exploration, though internal flights are also very helpful when covering longer distances. English is widely spoken, Māori culture is an important part of the national identity, and the currency is the New Zealand Dollar. Seasons are opposite to North America and Europe, with summer falling from December through February.

Best Time to Visit

New Zealand shines year-round. Summer (December-February) is perfect for touring and outdoor adventures, while autumn (March-May) offers golden light, vineyards, and fewer crowds. Winter (June-August) brings skiing and cozy lodges in the South Island, and spring (September-November) delights with blossoms and great shoulder season value.

What to Eat

New Zealand’s cuisine is ingredient-driven and rooted in its diverse regions. Enjoy fresh local flavors in dishes like tender lamb, wild venison, and green-lipped mussels. Pair world-class Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir with farm-to-table dining, and taste Māori-inspired creations that blend tradition with modern innovation.

Favourite Accommodations

We like to recommend accommodations that reflect the spirit of each destination and meet our standards for warmth, authenticity, and service. Each one offers a distinctive sense of place and a memorable experience that complements your journey.
Blanket Bay
Park Hyatt Auckland
Solitaire Lodge
Rosewood Cape Kidnappers
Eichardt’s Private Hotel

Itineraries at a glance

We like to recommend itineraries that showcase the best of each destination, balancing iconic highlights with meaningful local experiences. Each journey offers a blend of history, landscapes, and discovery, and can be tailored to suit your personal interests and travel style.

Timeline

Day 1
Arrive in Auckland

Arrive and unwind by the harbour or in a nearby neighbourhood known for great dining and galleries.

Day 2
Auckland city and Waiheke Island

Explore key city sights then ferry to Waiheke Island for vineyards, beaches and coastal views before returning to Auckland.

Day 3
Travel to Rotorua

Travel south through farmland and forest to Rotorua, arriving with time for a lakefront stroll.

Day 4
Rotorua geothermal and cultural experiences

Visit geothermal parks and enjoy a deeper cultural encounter through guided experiences and shared meals.

Day 5
Travel to Taupo and Tongariro region

Continue to Lake Taupo with wide open landscapes and distant volcanic peaks.

Day 6
Taupo lake and short walks

Enjoy lakeside walks, a boat trip, or a shorter Tongariro option suited to your energy and interests.

Day 7
Fly to Nelson or Blenheim

Travel to the top of the South Island for arts and coastlines in Nelson or wine focused stays in Blenheim.

Day 8
Marlborough wine and coastal scenery

Taste wines at welcoming cellar doors and explore nearby coastline or cruise into the Marlborough Sounds for a softer, scenic day.

Day 9
Travel to Queenstown

Fly or connect onward to Queenstown and settle into your alpine base with time to explore the lakefront.

Day 10
Queenstown and surrounds

Enjoy the town’s viewpoints and easy walks, with the option to add a jet boat, gondola, or a relaxed spa style afternoon.

Day 11
Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound

A full Fiordland day by coach and boat, with the option to add a scenic flight for a spectacular aerial perspective.

Day 12
Arrowtown and Central Otago

Visit historic Arrowtown then continue into Central Otago’s vineyards and orchards for tastings and countryside views.

Day 13
Glenorchy and alpine landscapes

Travel to Glenorchy at the head of the lake for breathtaking mountain scenery and optional short walks.

Day 14
Depart New Zealand

Transfer to the airport and depart.

Cost Per Person

(minimum of two travellers)

From

C$11,040

Timeline

Day 1
Arrive in Auckland and transfer to your hotel

Evening at leisure by the harbour.

Day 2
Fly to Rotorua and settle in

Experience geothermal landscapes and Māori cultural highlights.

Day 3
Rotorua nature day with lakes, forests, and hot springs

Optional cultural performance and hangi style dinner.

Day 4
Fly to Queenstown and check in

Enjoy lakefront strolling and a relaxed evening.

Day 5
Day trip to Milford Sound through dramatic mountain scenery

Cruise the fjord for waterfalls and wildlife spotting.

Day 6
Queenstown adventure or scenic day

Options include wine tasting, jet boating, hiking, or a gondola viewpoint.

Day 7
A flexible day for Arrowtown, Glenorchy, or a winery lunch

Farewell dinner with alpine views.

Day 8
Transfer to the airport for departure

Farewell to New Zealand’s wild beauty.

Cost Per Person

(minimum of two travellers)

From

C$10,880

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Destinations

Central America & the Caribbean
    Central Asia
      East Asia
        Europe
          Himalaya
            Middle East
              North America
                Northern Africa
                  Oceania
                    Polar
                      South America
                        South Asia
                          Southeast Asia
                            Sub-Saharan Africa
                              West Africa

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