Day 1 : Arrival
Christchurch to Arthurs
Pass
We have the opportunity to transfer you to Christchurch to meet your
private driver and then be at your exclusive lodge accommodation by early
afternoon. Historic Grasmere Lodge, nestled in the mountains of New
Zealand's South Island, is a country retreat of unrivalled charm and
distinction. This traditional New Zealand high country station (ranch), set
amid towering 7000 ft peaks, is a haven for those in need of relaxation and
a wonderland for those seeking a more adventurous interlude. For the
discerning guest or traveller, Grasmere Lodge offers the highest level of
hospitality in a wild and invigorating landscape.
Day 2 : Enjoying Arthurs Pass
Leisurely pursuits at Grasmere Lodge include horse riding, tennis,
croquet and boules, or a walk in the tranquil native beech forests. Or
guests can cast a line for some of the area's legendary trout in one of the
five lakes and three rivers nearby. Professional guides can lead the way to
the best fishing spots. For the more adventurous, there are exhilarating
kayak rides and wild tussock country to explore on mountainbikes.
Day 3 : Arthurs Pass - Greymouth - Punakaiki - Murchison
Today is your first self drive experience and the lack of traffic on the
South Island's west coast makes it an easy experience. Coastal historic
Greymouth awaits along with the blowholes of Punakaiki and then the sheer
magnificence of the Buller River Gorge. Your lodge tonight offers exclusive
luxury accommodation overlooking the banks of the beautiful Maruia River,
one of the finest Trout fishing rivers in the South Island of New Zealand.
An idyllic country retreat for the discerning traveller. Come and indulge
yourself at a haven of tranquility and relaxation set in stylishly
comfortable surroundings.
Day 4 : Murchison - Kahurangi National Park - Murchison
This day starts with a wonderful flight, from the Maruia River Lodges's
airstrip, through the mountains of Kahurangi National Park. Your guide for
the day will point out some of the outstanding geology of this, New
Zealand's second largest and ecologically most diverse National Park. You'll
land at the West Coast settlement of Karamea, where you will be driven into
the bush and guided on a short walk to the incredible limestone arches of
the Oparara River. Lunch is served either at the arches or at an alternative
destination, a rugged palm fringed beach at the end of the famous Heaphy
Track. The whole day's experience is heightened by the guides knowledge of
the unique flora, fauna and history of the area. Be aware that the guides
are picked not only for their knowledge, but also for their sense of humour.
You may be led a wee bit astray on some points of natural history, so be
careful when they offer you a taste of the native herbs! On returning to
Karamea, refreshments are provided at the Karamea Village Hotel where you
can sample some real Kiwi hospitality and maybe a whitebait fritter or two!
Your return flight to the Lodge will over another section of the Park,
possible the Heaphy Track or the Wilderness Coast. This is a truly memorable
day; don't forget your camera.
Day 5 : Murchison - Nelson - Marlborough Sounds
Today you have the choice of including Nelson in your list of destinations
or heading directly to Marlborough. Nelson, a city rich in culture set by
the sea and home of the famous 'Wearable Arts Festival'. This is only one
example of the creative people that live here. There are many live art
galleries that you can visit to watch pottery, paintings, hand blown glass
and carvings come alive before your eyes. New boutique wineries are
available for visits along with many outdoor actives from horseback riding,
kayaking and four wheel bike (ATV) safaris available. Marlborough offers
great food, great wine and the only true Sound in New Zealand (the Sounds at
Fiordland are actually fiords). Marlborough Sounds is a menagerie of
islands, bays, inlets, mountains and deep green bush pasted against the blue
waters. This region is for those who enjoy hiking and solitude.
Day 6 : Marlborough Sounds
A classic 40 foot bridgedeck vessel, Lady Karita was built in 1939 of
Kauri, Teak and Mahogany timbers. An original New Zealand built masterpiece,
she is kept by the Lodge in oiled, original and pristine condition. Every
morning at 10am Lodge guests can board this beautiful craft for a
complimentary cruise through the marvellous Sound ( Captained by our
resident Launchmaster ) to picnic at a perfect secluded bay, becoming at one
with nature and the magic of the Pelorus where native flora and fauna meet
the sea. The sheltered, scenic inner Sound cruise, returns to the Lodge by
3.00pm ensuring you will be fully relaxed and refreshed in time to enjoy the
complimentary pre dinner cocktail hour.
Day 7 : Marlborough Sounds -
Wellington
Today
it's goodbye to your Marlborough accommodation and South Island rental car
then off to our country's Capital City and your introduction to the North
Island. The afternoon is free to enjoy some shopping or the new Te Papa
Museum. Wellington is the cultural capital and this is a great opportunity
to enjoy some Kiwi Culture. After six nights of Lodge Dinners you have the
opportunity to dine in the style of your choice.
Day 8 : Wellington
- Wairarapa
Back out of the city and up into the Wairarapa where wine country or
wildlife awaits. Dramatic coastal scenery, the unearthly Pinnacles, a quirky
fishing village, fur seal colony, a lighthouse walk, Aorangi Forest Park and
Maori heritage sites are all wrapped into one breathtaking coastal drive to
the southernmost point of the North Island. You'll feel like you've reached
the end of the world. The Putangirua Pinnacles have been carved into
enormous organ pipe-shaped towers formed by rain washing silt and sand from
the hard rock, leaving individual pinnacles exposed. This is a barren
haunting environment with the atmosphere of a prehistoric time. Ngawi
fishing village is a popular base for commercial fishing operators with a
beach lined with fishing boats and bulldozers, those who are keen to get out
and do some fishing can arrange charter trips. It boasts a golf course
grazed by sheep, a seal colony with the North Island's largest breeding area
for New Zealand fur seals. Cape Palliser Lighthouse- climb the 250 steps to
the top and be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the coast and South
Island.
Day 9 : Wairarapa
The opportunity to visit the nearby wine centre of Martinborough.
Martinborough has become a unique wine village with over 20 boutique
vineyards, most within walking distance of the charming town square. To
really learn what makes this tiny area so special for producing
world-beating varietals and renowned Pinot Noir, you'll need to spend some
time getting acquainted with the wine, dining and sunshine.
Day 10 : Wairarapa - Hawkes Bay
Your drive today is through heartland New Zealand. You will pass seemingly
endless farms and charming small towns. A must stop is Mt Bruce Wildlife
sanctuary where you can enjoy a walk through thick native bush and see the
results from tireless efforts to save rare and endangered New Zealand bird
species. Your drive ends at Napier, well known and loved for its history,
Art Deco style, wine and Gannet colony.
Day 11 : Hawkes Bay
Today you may choose to enjoy a visit to the Gannet Colony, indulge in a
few vineyard visits or go trout fishing. Other popular attractions include
Marineland (swim with dolphins), the Hawkes Bay Aquarium and a Kiwi House
(where you can actually touch a kiwi!).
Day 12 : Hawkes Bay - Back Country Rotorua
Today you head to your last New Zealand destination and we have made sure
it is a special one! Depart Napier over the Napier/Taupo highway. A scenic
pass that offers a few surprises along the way and passes the largest
planted forest in the world. You may choose to spend some time in Taupo
enjoying the stunning Huka Falls before heading to your final destination
and lodge.
Day 13 : Rotorua
Although
there is much to do at near by Rotorua, we belive you will not want to leave
the facilities and grounds of your special lodge. Enjoy 140km of hiking
trails, go fishing or hop on a horse outside your villa and ride through the
native bush. A place that will capture your soul.
Day
14 : To Auckland &
International Departure
After your final New Zealand breakfast your hosts will bid you farewell and
you can enjoy a leisurely drive to Auckland for some final shopping before
your night-time departure. Stops enroute include the small towns of Tirau
and Cambridge with some wonderful antique and wool shops. A visit to one of
Cambridge's world famous Thoroughbred Studs is also an option for your last
day. International departure.
Other
New Zealand Tour Packages...
