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Across the Tasman Sea lies New Zealand, a land of incredible contrasts with snow capped mountains, breathtaking fjords and spectacular thermal pools. Being welcomed onto a traditional Maori marae is an experience you will never forget.

Journeys in New Zealand

Australasia

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New Zealand Luxury Holidays

"New Zealand has always rated favourably with the British clientele and it is not surprising as my several visits has demonstrated that although the scenic New Zealand is just as charming as before, the choice of lodges, restaurants, activities has improved greatly."

Steve Manley

one of our Australasia Experts

Call our Australia & New Zealand team on 0844 488 1123 or send us an enquiry

Things to do and see

AUCKLAND & ABOVE

Surrounded by three harbours, New Zealand’s largest city is renowned as the ‘City of Sails’. Its environs are breathtaking: rainforest covered hills; dozens of dormant volcanic cones perfect for invigorating walks. There is also a vibrant viaduct harbourfront, excellent shopping and a number of interesting museums from which to visit. The perfect place to recover from a long flight or end a tour, the Bay of Islands are just a couple of hours drive north of Auckland and has something for everything: delightful beaches and the sand dunes of Cape Reinga; fascinating history; the Giant Kauri Tree Forest and glow-worm caves.....

COROMANDEL & THE BAY OF PLENTY

Just a 2 hour drive from Auckland lies the stunning coastline, white sand beaches and forest hinterland of the Coromandel. With a range of short coastal paths to multi day treks, it’s a walkers’ paradise. The marine reserve of Cathedral Cove (Te Whanganui- A-Hei) – only accessible on foot or by boat, is a sensory wonder land, with looming limestone cliffs, vibrant volcanic coastline, crystal clear waters and mass of marine life. The Bay of Plenty has a rugged coastline where you will find golden beaches and green kiwifruit orchards. Lying 48 kilometres off the coast is White Island, an active volcano and private scenic reserve where visitors can walk straight inside its main crater.....

ROTORUA & THE THERMAL REGION

Rotorua, with its cobbled, lantern lined street ways and striking Tudor architecture shows off New Zealand’s significant colonial history. But it is the geysers, boiling mud pools and steaming craters that have made it so popular a destination, especially for therapy lovers. If that’s you, then merely mentioning the 26 hot mineral bathing pools and extensive range of treatments at Polynesian Spa should be starting to engender a warm feeling for this special part of the North Island. Visit the glow worm caves of Waitomo or enjoy a walk amongst the mountain peaks of Tongariro National Park. While closer to home you’re never far from Maori culture in the form of concerts, traditional singing and frequent performances of their legendary dances.....

NAPIER & HAWKES BAY

Napier’s variety of 1930’s architecture is almost unrivalled: Stripped Classical and Spanish Mission and especially Art Deco are all in evidence. Almost continual sunshine makes ocean spa hot pools and the swimming complex well worth a visit. A chilled glass of Sauvignon, on Marine Parade, whilst staring across the Pacific towards Cape Kidnappers and the world’s largest gannet colony is also recommended. Not visiting Hawkes Bay world-class wineries would be a mistake. Why not do it NZstyle on a bike? The relatively easy tour takes in vineyards, olive groves, ostrich farms, horse studs, orchards, six wineries and, yes, some of their stupendous output! A big draw for nature lovers are the safaris to the unique Gannet Reserve at Cape Kidnappers, on the east coast.....

WELLINGTON & WAIRARAPA

Wellington is protected by hills and a rugged coastline and boasts one of the world’s most beautiful harbours, from which wooden Victorian houses trail in picturesque terraces. The capital city has the nation’s parliament and national museum (Te Papa), as well as spectacular views, delightful gardens, challenging walks, superb shopping, a thriving café entertainment scene and a serious arts habit. Wine buffs will also love Martinborough’s famous wineries all within a short drive of the city! Nature lovers will do well to visit the Kapiti Coast from the native Tauua Ranges to Kapiti Island, home to many rate and endangered birds.....

NELSON & MARLBOROUGH

Marlborough’s wine capital offers cafés, restaurants, bars, shops, artisan food outlets, golf courses and wineries in abundance. Whilst Nelson offers a diversity in landscape – snow-capped mountains, rolling vineyards, golden beaches – all offering a wide array of outdoor activities and adventures. Picton, the gateway to this region is a pretty port at the head of the scenic Queen Charlotte Sound and if you head to Nelson you will find artisan galleries and the closeby Abel Tasman National Park where there is the opportunity to enjoy a walk, boat ride or a kayak along the golden sandy beaches. The vineyards just to the south of Blenheim is the centre of New Zealand’s largest wine-making region where visitors can enjoy sampling at the cellar door, or perhaps stop for lunch at one of the vineyards.....

CHRISTCHURCH & CANTERBURY

Described as the most English city outside of England, Christchurch offers historic sights, a flourishing restaurant and café society, a restored tram network and its own River Avon complete with punting locals. Christchurch is nicknamed the ‘Garden City’ with good reason: its Botanic Gardens feature one of the finest collections of exotic and indigenous plants in New Zealand, all in 21 hectares totally dedicated to the horticulturist’s art. Further afield at the foot of the rolling hills of the Banks Peninsula is the quaint village of Akaroa with its French influences, the departure point for some wildlife cruises. Along the coast is Kaikoura, known as one of New Zealand’s premier spots for whale watching excursions, either by sea or air.....

MOUNT COOK

Mount Cook is the highest mountain in New Zealand. Lying in the Southern Alps range, it’s a serenely beautiful year-round resort. Whether you’re attracted by the glacier skiing in the winter, or the hiking, boat trips and fishing in the summer, there’s only one place to stay: The Hermitage Hotel.....

FRANZ JOSEF & THE WEST COAST

The West Coast is memorable for its bizarre limestone landscapes, mysterious lakes and raging rivers, primal rainforest and magnificent, wild coastline. Highlights of this region include the huge ice valleys of Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. You may choose to talk a guided walk onto the glacier itself or enjoy a thrilling flight from above where there is even the opportunity to land on the top of a glacier. Other sights along the coast include the resort of Punakaiki, home to the ‘Pancake Rocks’, formed from layers of limestone resembling a stack of pancakes, one of New Zealand’s most spectacular natural landscapes. Greymouth is the gateway of the TranzAlpine train to Christchurch, one of New Zealand’s most spectacular rail journeys.....

QUEENSTOWN & THE SOUTHERN LAKES

Located by the majestic Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown offers superb wining and dining and outdoor adventure in the most beautiful Hollywood-perfect scenery imaginable. So good in fact, that this was where much of The Lord of the Rings was filmed. Whether you ride, walk, fly or sail, the wildlife, waterfalls, valleys, clear lakes, and mountainscapes of Queenstown will absolutely overwhelm you with their unspoilt magnificence. Lake Wanaka and its sister, Lake Hawea, are two crystal clear, scenically perfect, glacially created bodies of water in the centre of towering alps. Discover just how beautiful they are by mountain biking the high trails, walking the myriad tracks, or, if it’s winter, skiing the superb Alpine slopes. The region’s highest point, Mount Aspiring National Park has landing zones as start points for hikers, climbers and hunters.....

DUNEDIN & OTAGO

Dunedin is a Victorian and Edwardian heritage city with a Scottish influence, so much so it is known as the 'Edinburgh of the South'. It also proudly hosts New Zealand’s oldest Botanic Garden.The Otago Peninsula's diversity of coastal wildlife is unmatched as it provides a haven for kinder climate loving Antarctic species. The world’s only mainland albatross breeding colony is on Taiaroa Head, above a colony of Shags perching on the cliff crags. The Yellow Eyed Penguin, the world’s rarest, lives here as does the shy Little Blue Penguin. Stuart Island is a wildlife haven and one of the best opportunities to see a kiwi.....

FIORDLAND

Often seen as the eighth Wonder of the World, the Milford Sound offers breathtaking scenery - lush rainforest, soaring cliffs, shimmering lakes and cascading waterfalls. Not to mention the mighty Mitre Peak, which dominates the skyline. Doubtful Sound is a wilderness area of rugged peaks, rainforest and twisting, hidden inlets the second largest of the 14 fiords in Fiordland National Park. Whether you opt for an ever popular day cruise, an overnight cruise or a scenic flight the memories of either of these momentous sights will never leave you!....

Places to stay

The Bay of Islands Lodge

Located in a private reserve of native bushland just 5 minutes drive from Paihia, the Bay of Islands Lodge is a luxurious cedar clad property that overlooks the Veronica Channel. Custom designed to perfectly showcase its natural setting, the lodge offers 4 spacious, en suite rooms that boast large balconies, an infinity plunge pool on the lower floor and an array of modern amenities. A choice of excellent contemporary New Zealand cuisine adds to an already superb accommodation option. ....

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Cotter House

Located in a historic inner Auckland suburb only a short drive to the city Cotter House is exquisitely restored with its Regency architecture well preserved, and offers a rare cultural and historic experience. There are 2 guest rooms and 2 suites all with en-suite bathrooms. The property showcases some spectacular modern artwork, and is set in lovely grounds.....

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Peppers on the Point

Surrounded by the sparkling waters of Lake Rotorua, Peppers on the Point is a historic, luxurious and tranquil lodge, just 10 minutes from the city centre. The luxury lodge is a converted 1930’s mansion, elegantly decked out with beautiful antiques, spacious entertaining rooms with log fires, and a wood-panelled dinning room. Each beautifully appointed suite comes exquisitely furnished with separate lounge areas, colour television, DVD/CD player, in-room safe, mini bar, luxurious spa bathrooms and most offer delightful views of the lake. A superb 4-course table d’hote dinner boasts fabulous New Zealand cuisine, combining the freshest local ingredients with the finest wines and an extensive continental buffet breakfast is also included. ....

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The County Hotel

Considered one of the finest hotels in the Hawkes Bay region, The County Hotel is a beautifully restored Edwardian Art Deco hotel offering guests the choice of 18 well appointed suites and rooms and a multi award-winning restaurant in the centre of Napier. Some rooms boast private lounges, therapeutic spa baths and balconies, whilst all feature an array of elegant amenities. Chambers has been acclaimed as Napier’s best restaurant; offering charming ambience and a choice of over 80 locally produced wines.....

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The Duxton Hotel

Situated in the heart of Wellington, The Duxton Hotel provides a luxurious base from which to explore the highlights of New Zealand’s cultural and historic capital city. A choice of 192 deluxe and club rooms provides guests with separate living and sleeping areas, an array of modern amenities including television, mini bar, separate bath and shower and, in the case of Club guests, access to the Club Lounge facilities. The hotel restaurant offers a range of excellent international cuisine, accompanied by an enviable cellar of premier wines.....

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The George

An award-winning hotel, internationally recognised for its fine dining and impeccable service, The George is a boutique hotel overlooking Hagley Park and the Avon River. Ideally located close to the centre of the city, it affords discerning guests intimate style in any one of its 55 spacious rooms and suites which are designed with a stylish eye for detail and come complete with luxury amenities, ensuring you the most comfortable stay. The hotel’s two award-winning restaurants, Pescatore and 50 on Park are renowned for creating some of New Zealand’s most innovative and exciting food, matched with superb local and international wines. ....

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The Dairy Private Luxury Hotel

Centrally located and recently refurbished, The Dairy presents 13 private en suite bedrooms that afford views of Queenstown and the surrounding landscapes. Considered one of Queenstown’s premier boutique establishments each of the stylishly appointed spacious rooms offer a range of modern comforts along with beautifully relaxing, timeless interiors. The guest lounge presents the ideal spot to unwind, with deep sofas and an open fire. Breakfasts are served in the historic old 1920’s Dairy, from which the hotel takes its name. The property also offers delicious home made afternoon teas. There are mountain bikes for guests to use and an outdoor Jacuzzi. ....

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Edgewater Resort

Edgewater hotel and apartment's location, on the shores of the boutique destination of Lake Wanaka in the South Island of New Zealand. The hotel also offers guests access to natural attractions like the Milford Sound, Dunedin, and the Fox Glacier. The Edgewater Resort Wanaka is set in its own park-like grounds.....

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Hermitage Hotel

The original Hermitage Hotel was opened to adventurous travellers in 1884. It has since been rebuilt, modernised and refurbished with the latest development completed in 2001. The Hermitage Complex consists of 214 rooms offering a range of accommodation options including the popular Aorokai Wing, offering spacious guestrooms with two queen sized beds, sitting area with sofa, flat screen television and large picture windows with fantastic vistas of Mount Cook looming in the background. The hotel offers the choice of the a la carte Panorama Restaurant with its stunning views, or the spacious Alpine Restaurant with an extensive dinner buffet selection.....

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Fletcher Lodge

Just a few minutes stroll from the centre of Dunedin, Fletcher Lodge combines restrained elegance and intimate luxury with all the modern comforts of contemporary living. Dating from 1924, this historic property features 6 guestrooms, 2 apartments and a luxury spa, all set amidst secluded and restful gardens that are conveniently located close to many of the city’s finest restaurants and cafes.....

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Westwood lodge

Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s spectacular Glacier Country, Westwood lodge is an ideal place to unwind and explore Franz Josef Glacier. The warmth of natural timber throughout the lodge reflects the New Zealand West Coast forest environment and complements the traditional hospitality for which the region is famed. All nine rooms are comfortable, large open plan suites with stylish under floor-heated en suite bathrooms. The lounge and bar with impressive fire and views offer a relaxing haven at the end of the day.....

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Fiordland Lodge

Beautifully set on 40 acres of rural rolling grassland, overlooking the shimmering Lake Te Anau, Fiordland Lodge offers a tranquil retreat just 10 minutes from Te Anau. This property has been designed to reflect its rural setting with high ceilings, timber furnishings, trunk pillars, large windows and a grand river stone fireplace. Each of the 10 guestrooms is spacious and well appointed whilst being light and airy with views out across the lake. A delicious 4 course dinner using superb, locally produced food coupled with the finest wine is served daily in the dining room....

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Staff Favourites

APT Touring

For the weary traveller wanting to be in small groups, try APT Touring, some groups of no more than 30 guests, escorted with choosing sightseeing tours to join in, choice of meal times, with whom you eat and a choice of restaurants in some locations.

Car or Motorhome Hire

Hire a car or motorhome, mixed with a few internal flights and you will have the freedom to do an itinerary to suit you, visiting friends/relatives, indulge in outdoor pursuits, great places to stay in a country of contrasts for all seasons.

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Journeys in New Zealand