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Start with Hawkes Bay Wine region and soak up the art and food scene before heading to the tranquility of the Queen Charlotte Sounds for walks, swimming, and nature. Helicopter to remote Minaret Station and enjoy life on a high country ranch in their luxurious alpine lodge. Then it's away to a private launch on Dusky Sound - this is the ultimate end to your memorable New Zealand vacation.
Duration: 10 Days
Starts: Hawkes Bay
Finishes: Queenstown
With a lifestyle that favours wine, food, art & culture there is plenty to savour
Located on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island, Hawke’s Bay has many unique features to offer to its visitors. From stunning beaches and coastal lines, native bush, and wildlife to rolling hills and picturesque wineries, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage, you will not be disappointed.
3 nights at Greenhill Lodge
200 vineyards, 70+ wineries and 30+ cellar doors, with excellent al fresco dining options
If you thought New Zealand was all about Sauvignon Blanc, you are missing out on some of the best wines we have to offer. Wines from Hawke’s Bay have scored more 90+ ratings in Wine Spectator than any other New Zealand District!
Hawke’s Bay is home to the oldest winery in New Zealand. The story began with a group of French missionaries who sailed to New Zealand in 1838, with little more than their faith and a few vines. Today, Hawke’s Bay is the second-largest viticultural region in New Zealand, producing local and international award-winning wines.
Today your private guide will take you to the best of these cellar doors, and dine al fresco at one of the many winery restaurants.
Visit Te Mata Peak and Art Deco Napier
With a driver at your disposal today, you have the luxury to go anywhere within the province. Head to the magnificent Te Mata Peak for a 360 degree view of the region. Napier has an interesting mix of history in the Art Deco building style, coffee houses, and hole-in-the-wall art galleries. Take lunch on the Napier waterfront – or try another winery restaurant, Black Barn Vineyard is a favourite in Havelock North, or for rustic charm try Clearview Estate at the seaside at Te Awanga.
Fly to Wellington, Helicopter transfer to the Bay of Many Coves
In the heart of the Queen Charlotte Sounds, nestled into the hillside where virgin native bush extends from hilltops to water’s edge you will find the Bay of Many Coves Resort. The Sounds offers tranquility and birdsong like no other part of New Zealand is able – due to the predator free nature of this area. This property is boat access only – so the only other visitors will be boaties and the few other guests staying at the property, in the luxury of private villas. From here it is possible to hike sections of the Queen Charlotte Track or to enjoyed the sheltered bays from the water.
3 nights Bay of Many Coves
Lush native forests and regenerating bush are perfect for recharging the spirit.
Take one of several tracks leading out from the Resort that lead you through 52 hectares of private bush, alive with native birds. Venture from the Bay of Many Coves Resort to the Queen Charlotte Track, or we can arrange a boat pick up from any of the entry and exit points along this magnificent walkway.
Take the day to explore the beautiful Marlborough Sounds
Fresh fish is what the Marlborough Sounds is famous for, so why not catch your own?
Whether fishing is a passion or on your ‘Bucket List’, we can arrange a Fishing charter for you within the inner-Sounds (catch and release blue cod) or an extreme outer-Sounds fishing expedition.
Fly to Queenstown, helicopter transfer to Minaret Station
Accessible only by helicopter, you’ll transfer by helicopter after flying into Queenstown. Minaret Station is New Zealand’s first and finest luxurious alpine lodge. The lodge is set at the head of a picturesque glacial valley within the untouched landscapes and beauty of the Southern Alps, near Wanaka.
In addition to the Alpine Lodge, Minaret Station also provides authentic experiences throughout New Zealand’s South Island including an extensive range of helicopter touring, hiking, backcountry fly fishing, guided hunting, and heli-skiing.
3 nights at Minaret Station - Alpine Lodge
A tailored experience of Minaret Station for guests staying at the Alpine Lodge.
Start the day by hiking down the valley from the Alpine Lodge with your guide. Here you will be picked up by helicopter and flown onto the 50,000 acre farm where you will enjoy a combination of private farm tour, lake fishing, gourmet lunch and the opportunity for further exploration on this private property.
Far to the south, over rain forests, mountains and deep glaciated valleys lies beautiful Dusky Sound in Fiordland.
After a stunning scenic flight you will land on our custom-built floating helipad and transfer to our boat to enjoy a day of fishing, discovery and wildlife viewing. At Dusky Sound, it’s possible to explore the pristine shoreline of this World Heritage Area and retrace the steps of explorer Captain Cook.
The archaeological evidence of Cook’s visit can still be seen in the tree stumps cut by his crew for timber used to repair the vessel, Resolution in 1773. This is a spectacular region of Fiordland National Park that is only experienced by a few lucky visitors who take away indelible memories.
Very few people visit Dusky Sound. It’s isolated location at the South-Western tip of Fiordland makes it inaccessible to all but ocean-going vessels and helicopters. Consequently, the environment here is as pristine as it is possible to be.
Return to Queenstown Airport for your onward journey
We know you will enjoy your 1o Day Luxury Fly Around Tour – soaking up the hospitality and the unique landscapes – returning home refreshed and revitalised from your time in New Zealand.
“This trip allows the guest to experience rural and remote New Zealand, with as much downtime or activity to suit any preferences. Sunlit al fresco lunches, bush clad hikes and high country farming - other worldly locations. Let this trip be the trigger for your next adventure.”
Ready to find out more? Talk to one of our friendly travel designers about his tour. We guarantee you it will be the experience of a lifetime!
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Once an iconic, colonial Edwardian styled homestead, Greenhill has been transformed into a charming country house style property which has hosted English royalty. The exclusive, historic mansion is situated on a hill top overlooking classic New Zealand farm and grazing land. The décor entrancingly combines today’s favourite colour palette of clay’s, granites furniture and an interesting collection of paintings and prints. The property features a swimming pool, fitness centre and tennis court.
Just a short water taxi ride from Picton Harbour, and within easy reach of all major New Zealand airports, you’ll find a slice of pure paradise. Discover perfect seclusion on the water’s edge deep in the Marlborough Sounds with 5-star luxury accommodation, world-class cuisine and a taste of 100% pure relaxation. Savour the delights of fresh local seafood and other provincial produce in our waterfront café, guest-lounge and fine-dining restaurant. Our cellar offers a broad selection of Marlborough’s finest wines balanced with national and international labels. A choice of 3, 2, or 1 bedroom architecturally designed luxury apartments set in the bush with beautiful bay views. During the day, experience wonderful bush and coastal walks with the Queen Charlotte Track on your doorstep; kayaking, sailing, motor yacht cruising, eco and wildlife adventures, day spa treatments, wine tours, fishing and diving.
Minaret Station comprises a working farm with tens of thousands of sheep, deer and cattle destined for the local market and for premium export, as well as the luxurious Alpine Lodge for tourists. The main homestead is where guests meet for mealtimes: hearty breakfasts, moreish canapes and three-course gourmet dinners prepared from local produce, matched with regional wines.
With a roaring wood fire in the lounge at one end and a cosy library and cellar at the other, the homestead is where guests compare stories and share photos. (Incidentally, the main homestead is also where guests drop off muddy shoes and wet jeans, which come back clean, dry and folded within a couple of hours. Magic.)
If you thought New Zealand was all about Sauvignon Blanc, you are missing out on some of the best wines we have to offer. Wines from Hawke’s Bay have scored more 90+ ratings in Wine Spectator than any other New Zealand District!
With such an extensive range of vineyards to choose from, we can take you to your preferred wineries to meet a winemaker for a behind-the-scenes look into the local wine industry. Or if you prefer, simply taste while enjoying the beautiful settings as you are driven around the region in our modern, comfortable vehicles.
The day is yours to explore with a private driver to view a place through a slightly different lens – if you enjoy exploring some of the hidden haunts and quiet, quirky quarters frequented mainly by locals. Venture off the well-beaten tourist track. Discover & experience some authentic Hawke’s Bay ‘treasures’ that seldom feature on a standard Hawke’s Bay sightseeing itinerary.
Fresh fish is what the Marlborough Sounds is famous for, so why not catch your own?
Whether fishing is a passion or on your ‘Bucket List’, we can arrange a Fishing charter for you within the inner-Sounds (catch and release blue cod) or an extreme outer-Sounds fishing expedition.
Start the day by hiking down the valley from the Alpine Lodge with your guide. Here you will be picked up by helicopter and flown onto the 50,000 acre farm where you will enjoy a combination of private farm tour, lake fishing, gourmet lunch and the opportunity for further exploration on this private property.
After a stunning scenic flight you will land on our custom-built floating helipad and transfer to our boat to enjoy a day of fishing, discovery and wildlife viewing. At Dusky Sound, it’s possible to explore the pristine shoreline of this World Heritage Area and retrace the steps of explorer Captain Cook.
The archaeological evidence of Cook’s visit can still be seen in the tree stumps cut by his crew for timber used to repair the vessel, Resolution in 1773. This is a spectacular region of Fiordland National Park that is only experienced by a few lucky visitors who take away indelible memories.
Very few people visit Dusky Sound. It’s isolated location at the South-Western tip of Fiordland makes it inaccessible to all but ocean-going vessels and helicopters. Consequently, the environment here is as pristine as it is possible to be.
The Marlborough Sounds lie at the South Island’s north-easternmost point, between Tasman Bay in the west and Cloudy Bay in the south-east. The almost fractal coastline has 1/5th of the length of New Zealand’s coasts. The steep, wooded hills and small quiet bays of the sounds are sparsely populated, as access is difficult. Many of the small settlements and isolated houses are only accessible by boat.
This is one of the most beautiful and tranquil places in New Zealand, endowed with natural beauty, this intricate maze of waterways with its attractive beaches and lush greenery provides for the perfect nature experience. Many visitors to Marlborough arrive by ferry through the deep coves and bays of Tory Channel and Queen Charlotte Sound.
Sail, paddle, kayak, mountain bike, walk or motor through this picturesque maritime area. Fine restaurants and accommodation lodges are scattered throughout the Sound.
Wanaka Town is located on the southern shores of Lake Wanaka, embraced by the Southern Alps, Wanaka is Otago’s second resort town after Queenstown. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Wanaka, New Zealand’s fourth largest lake, reflect the snow-capped peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park. Here you can absorb the unstoppable beauty of pristine wilderness and know that it will be easy to find a great restaurant for dinner. The township of Wanaka is a magnet for visitors who want to find the perfect combination of outdoor adventure and indoor luxury.
Queenstown, located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the magnificent Southern Alps, is New Zealand’s most celebrated destination. Offering a wealth of accommodation to suit all travellers, there is huge diversity in the experiences to be enjoyed – from adrenaline activities such as bungee jumps and sky diving, adventurous excursions like jet-boating and hiking through to superb golf, gourmet food and wine tours, alpine tours and hiking.
