A Boutique Private Journey Through Aotearoa Itinerary

When you touch down in New Zealand you will be met at the airport by Your Private Driver/Guide. 

Our guides have been with us for a long time and are seasoned professionals. Our aim is to give ‘you’ our guests a memorable experience of New Zealand and its stunning scenery. With years of experience in tourism in New Zealand, we guarantee that you will receive a first-class service!

The best part about our guides is that they are local and chances are they have their go-to destinations that only locals know about. Whether it’s a hole-in-the-wall restaurant, a favourite local pub, or a fantastic attraction that most tourists overlook, our guides can help recommend authentic experiences that you may not discover on your own.

‘Haere Mai’ and welcome to Queenstown.

Relax: you're now on vacation and we have taken care of everything for you. After meeting you at the airport we will help you to transfer to your waterfront hotel to settle in.

Sophisticated Queenstown offers bespoke and authentic luxury experiences in a beautiful snowy mountain setting, hosted by the naturally warm and welcoming Kiwi people. While the town is known for its wide variety of adventure activities, you needn't be an adrenaline junkie to enjoy Queenstown: the tranquil lake and mountain setting is a major part of its appeal. From relaxing vineyard tours or boat cruises to extreme adventures, Queenstown has it all.

Accommodation: Queenstown - 2 Nights
 

See Fiordland National Park in style on a scenic helicopter flight over the lakes, rivers, mountains, and forests of this unique World Heritage Area.

As your helicopter takes off, keep your camera close by there are scenic wonders everywhere, crying out to be captured from above. You'll discover isolated valleys of ancient forests and pristine trout-fishing rivers, as well as mountains carved by the ice over thousands of years. The stunning Mirror Lakes, glacier-formed Eglinton Valley, and iconic Mitre Peak are among the show-stopping highlights of this vast and remote wilderness.

Landing in Milford, you'll enjoy a short nature walk and find the perfect spot for that iconic Mitre Peak photo. After your stroll, an exhilarating flight past spectacular mountains and blue-green ice falls transports you to Mt Tutoko glacier in the heart of Fiordland National Park.

Return to Queenstown tonight, wondering if it was all a beautiful dream.
 

Travel with your private driver/guide from Queenstown to Wanaka, enjoying a scenic journey through dramatic alpine landscapes. Along the way, pause for photos and take in sweeping mountain and lake views. Arrive in Wanaka, a relaxed lakeside town set beneath the Southern Alps, known for its crystal-clear waters, boutique wineries, and access to incredible walking trails. Your private driver/guide provides local insight, ensuring a seamless and enriching introduction to this stunning region.

Approximate Distance: 75 km | 47 miles Total Driving Time: 1 hour 15 mins

Accommodation: Wanaka - 2 Nights
 

Today, explore the natural beauty of Lake Wanaka on a small-group cruise to Mou Waho Island, a predator-free sanctuary. Step ashore for a guided nature walk through native bush, learning about the island’s unique ecology, birdlife, and conservation efforts. Surrounded by alpine scenery, enjoy panoramic views and discover the island’s hidden lake before returning to the Wanaka shoreline.

Be transported to the South Island's wild West Coast today on one of New Zealand's most breathtaking scenic drives.

The scenery is impressive all the way, and once over the Haast Pass, it changes dramatically. There's beauty around every bend, with woodland walks and dramatic waterfalls along the way — perfect for picnic stops. After the ancient forests and mountain passes give way to coastal views, you'll soon be nearing glacier country.

Approximate Distance: 285 km | 178 miles Total Driving Time: 4 hours 15 mins

Accommodation: Franz Josef - 2 Nights
 

Experience some of the most stunning ‘ice architecture’ of any Glacier in the world with a helicopter tour over Franz Josef.

Franz Josef Glacier is a mighty river of solid white, a unique relic of the last ice age. Following a spectacular collapse of the terminal face in 2012, the Glacier is now only accessible by helicopter.

Your flight today covers it all: Glacial icefalls, crevasses and neves, and views from ocean to the Alps. Crossing the rugged spine of the Southern Alps, you'll circle the magnificent peak of our tallest mountain, Aoraki / Mt Cook, as well as the very beautiful Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. Get your camera ready for a spectacular snow landing — with the rotors off, the silence is all-encompassing.
 

Travel with your private driver-guide from Franz Josef to Christchurch, crossing the Southern Alps via Arthur’s Pass. Experience ever-changing landscapes—from rainforest and rivers to snow-capped peaks—pausing for scenic views and photo opportunities along the way. Descend onto the wide Canterbury Plains and arrive in Christchurch, a city blending heritage charm with modern vibrancy, gardens, and riverside attractions.

Approximate Distance: 385 km | 240 miles Total Driving Time: 5 hours

Accommodation: Christchurch - 2 Nights

Experience a full-day journey from Christchurch to Hanmer Springs, travelling through the scenic Canterbury foothills and alpine landscapes. Discover the charming village, famous for its natural hot pools, forest walks, and boutique cafés. Unwind in the thermal waters, explore the surrounding trails, or simply soak up the mountain views. After a day of relaxation and exploration, return to Christchurch, with your tour guide sharing local insights and ensuring a smooth, comfortable journey back to the city.
 

Journey from Christchurch to Kaikōura along the stunning Pacific coastline, with your private driver-guide sharing local insights along the way. Pass through rolling farmland, dramatic cliffs, and sweeping ocean vistas, with opportunities to stop for photos or short walks. Arrive in Kaikōura, a charming coastal town renowned for its marine life, including whales, dolphins, and seals. This scenic journey blends comfort, flexibility, and natural beauty, offering a memorable introduction to one of New Zealand’s most picturesque and wildlife-rich regions.

Approximate Distance: 180 km | 112 miles Total Driving Time: 2 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Kaikoura - 2 Nights
 

Kaikoura's most famous residents are the many whales and dolphins who feast on the abundant seafood in its waters. Sperm whales visit year-round, while the mighty humpback is a regular visitor in June and July.

Today you'll soar above the ocean for a birds-eye view of Kaikoura's whales from the air. Enjoy spotting them as they breach the surface, spouting seawater from their blowholes before diving in search of tasty squid.
 

Follow the grapevines to reach Blenheim right in the heart of the world-renowned Marlborough wine growing district.

Not surprisingly, it’s a great base from which to tour the local vineyards and enjoy the artisanal food offerings. Don’t miss tasting a glass of the local Sauvignon Blanc – the vineyards surrounding Blenheim produce some of the world’s best. If you grab a bottle for later, the designated driver won't have to miss out!

One of Blenheim's popular attractions is the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre. There are some very rare planes on display and even some genuine personal memorabilia from the famous Red Baron - the top scoring fighter pilot from World War One.

Approximate Distance: 130km | 80 miles Total Driving Time: 2 hours

Accommodation: Blenheim - 2 Nights

Enjoy a waterfront lunch before departing on your fantastic Mussel and Wine Cruise heading into the tranquil Marlborough Sounds. Your Skipper will tell fascinating stories of the ancient Maori tribes of the region and the history of the pioneering families who settled over 6 generations ago.

Green-lipped mussels (known to Māori as kutai) are indigenous to New Zealand, and cannot be found anywhere else. Their flesh is distinctive from other mussel species, and sampling them is a real New Zealand must-do. You'll visit a Greenshell Mussel farm to taste this local treat — delicious freshly steamed mussels, matched perfectly to a glass of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc.

Approximate Distance: 85 km | 53 miles Total Driving Time: 1 hour 15 mins

Farewell the South Island and take a short flight to the North Island, arriving in Wellington - New Zealand’s "coolest little capital", alive with culture, harbour views, and a bustling arts scene.

On arrival in Wellington, meet your new private drive/guide and transfer to your accommodation in Martinborough, the heart of New Zealand’s premier wine region. This charming town is famed for its boutique wineries, relaxed village atmosphere, and scenic vineyard-lined streets. Along the way, enjoy views of rolling countryside and the Wairarapa landscapes. Once settled, explore Martinborough’s gourmet cafés, artisan shops, and local cellar doors, immersing yourself in the region’s vibrant food and wine culture while enjoying the tranquillity of this picturesque North Island destination.

Approximate Distance: 85km | 50 miles Total Driving Time: 1 hour 45 mins

Accommodation: Martinborough - 2 Nights

Spend a leisurely day in Martinborough, soaking up the relaxed village atmosphere. Stroll the charming streets, browse boutique shops, and enjoy local cafés. Discover the region’s renowned Pinot Noir with tastings at nearby boutique wineries, or simply unwind amid the scenic vineyard-lined surroundings. For those seeking a gentle outing, guided walks and local tours offer insight into the area’s culture, history, and natural beauty, making for a perfectly unhurried day to relax, explore at your own pace, and savour the charms of this iconic wine region.

Heading north, today you'll discover the delights of the Hawkes Bay region, famed for its sensational coastal scenery, fine wines and the beautifully preserved Art Deco city of Napier.

Boasting a relaxed country lifestyle, Hawke's Bay is the perfect setting to unwind and forget any everyday cares. You'll be staying in the Hastings District, a sensational place to enjoy the Great New Zealand Outdoors with outstanding beaches, cycling trails, and walking tracks, as well as iconic natural landmarks such as Cape Kidnappers and Te Mata Peak.

Approximate Distance: 280 km | 174 miles Total Driving Time: 3 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Hastings - 2 Nights

The most authentic way to experience Hawke's Bay is to get to know the colourful characters who live here. Today's tour introduces you people and places that are unforgettable.

This customised Hawke's Bay tour allows you to discover the Bay your way. Here are some of the highlights you may wish to experience:

• Stroll amongst the celebrated art deco buildings of Napier.
• Gain a spiritual insight into Maori culture at a beautiful rural coastal settlement, where you'll meet and talk with a Maori elder.
• Visit creative food producers on their land: taste, touch and smell the tantalising products they make from the deep soils.
• Taste beautifully crafted local wines at prestigious Hawke's Bay wineries, meeting the personalities involved in making the wines.
• Be welcomed by fascinating local artists in their studios and view their paintings, sculptures or ceramics.

The tour will be customised to your tastes and will take you on a special journey to find the true essence of this beautiful region.
 

The heartland of New Zealand’s North Island, Rotorua is host to some of the world’s most incredible geothermal forces as it is situated right on the Pacific Ring of Fire. Volcanic activity is a key part of the city’s past and present. On your journey today, take time for a picnic lunch on the shores of Great Lake Taupō, visit the mighty Huka Falls or explore Wai-O-Tapu, a geothermal park between Taupō and Rotorua.

Approximate Distance: 245 kms | 152 miles Total Driving Time: 3 hours 45 mins

Accommodation: Rotorua - 2 Nights
 

Today’s highlight is a visit to Te Puia, featuring the Te Ra Guided Experience and Haka. Explore Māori traditions, stories, and artistry with an engaging guided tour, then witness the intensity and cultural significance of the haka performance. This immersive experience combines education and entertainment, offering a deeper understanding of local customs and Māori heritage, with insight into artistry, ritual, and the spirit of Māori life, creating memorable connections in a captivating setting.

Swap the volcanic landscapes of the Central Plateau for the harbourside City of Sails, Auckland. Journey through changing scenery, from rolling farmland to urban skylines, and enjoy views of rivers, coastlines, and lush landscapes along the way. Arrive in Auckland, the country’s largest city, known for its harbours, beaches, and vibrant cultural scene. Explore the city’s highlights at leisure or simply soak up its energy, blending natural beauty with cosmopolitan charm.

Approximate Distance: 230 kms | 143 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Auckland - 1 Night

Travel north to the Bay of Islands, passing through lush countryside, coastal towns, and scenic harbours along the way. Journey past rolling hills, farmland, and subtropical landscapes before arriving in Paihia, a charming seaside town offering access to islands, marine life, and Māori heritage. Explore at leisure, enjoy waterfront cafés, or take in the stunning views, setting the stage for your exploration of this iconic Northland destination.

Approximate Distance: 230 km | 142 miles Total Driving Time: 3 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Paihia - 2 nNights

Your 45-minute scenic flight to Cape Reinga showcases Northlands’ most spectacular harbours and bays, passing across stunning Coopers Beach, Doubtless Bay, and the famous Ninety Mile Beach. After you land, an air-conditioned minibus will spirit you away on a 2.5-hour tour of New Zealand's Far North.

You'll visit the Cape Reinga lighthouse and see where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean, their waves crashing together. Stroll along the beach at Tapotupotu Bay before heading to the giant sand dunes of Te Paki quicksand stream: "sand surfing" down the dunes is exhilarating fun for all ages!

From the stunning beauty of the Bay of Islands, return to Auckland with your private driver-guide, enjoying scenic views of rolling countryside, coastline, and lush landscapes along the way. On arrival in Auckland, say farewell to your driver-guide and enjoy some free time to relax, settle into your accommodation, or explore the city at your own pace.

Approximate Distance: 230 kms | 143 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Auckland - 2 Nights

Experience the natural wonders of the Coromandel on this full-day private tour from Auckland. Explore pristine beaches, hidden sea caves, and lush native forests, with plenty of opportunities for photos and short walks. Enjoy a scenic coastal drive and immerse yourself in the region’s dramatic landscapes and tranquility. A delicious lunch is included, giving you time to relax and savour local flavours. This guided tour offers a personalised and memorable way to discover the Coromandel’s unique beauty before returning to Auckland.

"Haere rā" Goodbye! and Bon Voyage!

Enjoy a private transfer to the airport, providing a comfortable and stress-free end to your New Zealand journey. Take a moment to reflect on your experiences, the stunning landscapes you’ve explored, and the memories you’ve created. Depart with plenty of photos, lasting impressions, and smiles from your adventure, carrying the spirit of Aotearoa with you. Wishing you a safe and pleasant homeward journey, and we hope your time in New Zealand inspires you to return for more unforgettable experiences.