Part of the First Light Travel Group
South Pacific Specialists
+64 (9) 320 1065
This trip offers an abundance of refined privacy for couples, families or friends travelling together. In the South Islands Craigieburn Valley you will have exclusive use of a high country station, Flockhill Lodge that has 36,000 acres of wilderness at your doorstep. Then fly north to the beautiful Bay of Islands for a further four nights to enjoy the coastal marine environment at the Eagles Nest - sail, swim, fishing and diving charters are all options for your stay.
Duration: 8 Days
Starts: Christchurch
Finishes: Kerikeri
Private Transfer to Flock Hill Station
Private transfer by road or air to a working sheep station of 36,000 acres, Flockhill is hidden in the Craigieburn Valley in New Zealand’s South Island. The landscape at Flockhill has unique flora, fauna & threatened species that are only found this far above sea level. You will have exclusive use of this property.
The Homestead sits proudly yet peacefully in an elevated position in the centre of a valley, attuned to the surrounding wilderness and bearing witness to undisturbed life in the Southern Alps. Your stay at the Homestead is complemented by dining options tailored to your needs and preferences. A personal chef and attendant are at hand to provide you with fresh, nourishing meals at the times of your choosing.
4 nights at Flockhill Station & Lodge
There are exceptional activities available from caving to fly fishing, horse riding, farm tours and cycling...
The Southern Alps is an area of many lakes and streams that enables you to experience the most appropriate fly fishing destination according to your angling experience, current weather patterns, river flow rates, and levels of fitness. You have access to other wilderness mountain streams by heading into the back country by helicopter. Discover untouched New Zealand with the anticipation of catching sly back country fish.
Our guided E-bike experience will take you to the furthest reaches of the Station. Guided through paddocks of Merino-Romney sheep, curious cattle and wildlife endemic to New Zealand mountainous regions. Your hours in the saddle will take you over changing elevations, but when required, you may call on the assistance of your E-bike for the boost you need. You will be offered refreshments at a prominent viewpoint. Your guide will ensure a seamless journey.
Transfer to the Eagles Nest
This multi-award winning New Zealand luxury retreat is set within a 75 acre estate atop its own private ridgeline offering spectacular views of the Bay of Islands. Designed and furnished in an eclectic international contemporary style, where gardens and lodgings blend into the natural topography and foliage.
Located in the Bay of Islands with easy access to the historic town of Kororāreka (Russell) in New Zealand, Eagles Nest offers a variety of luxury accommodation options for the most discerning of travellers.
The Bay of Islands is a world renowned holiday destination with 144 plus islands to explore in this sub tropical paradise. World class big game fishing, scenic cruising, sailing diving, kayaking, bush walking, mountain biking, helicopter flight seeing, romantic picnics are but some of the manyoptions available from Eagles Nest.
3 nights at Eagles Nest
After breakfast you will be chauffeured to the waterfront to meet your private charter boat for you Bay of Islands adventure
Step aboard a classic single mast sailing yacht you can get up close and personal with the stunning Bay of Islands. There is nothing quite like the sound of the ocean lapping against the hull and the smell of salt air to make you feel invigorated. Take the day to cruise sparkling waters and discover one of the richest sailing areas in New Zealand. With over 140 islands and bays to choose from disembark to kayak, swim, snorkel, or go for a walk on one of the secluded sandy beaches.
Spend your final day relaxing and soaking up the views from the Eagles Nest
Enjoy a sleep-in this morning and a free day of strolling to quiet beaches and around the town. Historic Duke of Marlborough hotel on the Russell foreshore is a pretty spot to relax and enjoy lunch while the boats bob in the bay. Back at your villa, you’ll welcome your personal chef tonight. They will get to work preparing a five course tasting menu with New Zealand wine matches, designed to suit your tastes and showcase local produce. Just relax on your balcony and enjoy the view over the Bay of Islands.
After breakfast you will be chauffered to Kerikeri Airport for your onward journey. We know you will enjoy your 8 Day Refined Wilderness experience and we hope you will return soon to discover even more highlights of the South Pacific.
“This trip is perfect for small groups of up to 8 people wishing to experience New Zealand for what is famed for - remote wilderness and exquisite untouched coastlines, whilst enjoying complete privacy.”
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!
ENQUIRELike what you see? Contact us today to find out more about our exclusive itineraries. Each Absolute New Zealand tour is tailored to who you are and what you want to do.
Our team has access to New Zealand's most unique accommodation, superb activities, and flight specials. Contact us for a personalised New Zealand experience.
Hawkes Bay to Queenstown
Queenstown to Queenstown
Auckland to Napier
Inspiring travel itineraries and expert advice delivered to your inbox.
START PLANNING
FlockHill Lodge | Refined Wilderness in Craigieburn
A stay at Flockhill is a remarkable experience for even the most well-travelled. A revelation into the sheer magnificence of New Zealand’s untouched landscapes. A true luxury escape in every sense of the phrase.
The Flockhill Homestead sits proudly yet peacefully in an elevated position in the centre of a valley, attuned to the surrounding wilderness and bearing witness to undisturbed life in the Southern Alps.
A working sheep station of 36,000 acres, Flockhill is in the Craigieburn Valley in New Zealand’s South Island. Located close to Arthur’s Pass, the property is surrounded by dramatic mountains, winding rivers and glistening lakes that support high country life in all its forms.
Flock Hill Homestead from WARREN AND MAHONEY on Vimeo.
This multi-award winning retreat is set within a 75 acre estate atop its own private ridgeline offering spectacular views of the Bay of Islands and offers over 144 islands to explore in this sub tropical paradise. Designed and furnished in an eclectic international contemporary style, where gardens and lodgings blend into the natural topography and foliage. It is located in the Bay of Islands within easy walking distance of the historic town of Russell in New Zealand. Your stay includes champagne on arrival, a fresh fruit platter daily, gourmet breakfast provisions daily and free transfers to and from Russell are also provided on request.
The scope of the land and breadth of our property offers many opportunities to explore through cycling, hiking, jetboating or paddleboarding—and each is delivered with the special Flockhill touch that will make your experience extraordinary. Bespoke itineraries can also be crafted for visitors to accommodate personal preferences, including exclusive off-site seasonal activities like heliskiing, golf, hunting, wine tours.
Farm Station Tour Experience a scenic journey into the back blocks of the station where you will get an appreciation for a day in the life of a flock. Our robust sheep are a part of New Zealand’s legendary farming heritage. You will find this is an experience that is both informative and interactive.
Fly Fishing Flockhill is suited to both learners and the more experienced angler – The Porter & Broken River are welcome spots for a fly-fishing tutorial while the aptly named Winding Stream is more challenging.
Guided E-bike experience will take you to the furthest reaches of the Station. Guided through paddocks of Merino-Romney sheep, curious cattle and wildlife endemic to New Zealand mountainous regions. You will be offered refreshments at a prominent viewpoint. Your guide will ensure a seamless journey.
Guided Hike The Waimakariri River walk takes you east where you look down on the braided river and wide shingle beds. Flock Hill Station rests for 18 km along its edge where the Esk River meets. The Waimakariri is an important habitat for wildlife, including endangered species of plants and animals.
The Bay of Islands are best seen on the water, and this full day private cruise is a great way to experience the marine life and bays all to yourself. Your private single mast yacht offers plenty of space and level sailing for a pleasant day on the water spotting dolphins, kayaking, swimming and paddle boarding around the pristine beaches and islands. Gourmet lunch and New Zealand wines are served onboard, with cruises able to be tailored to suit your plans.
Christchurch is the city of exploration, where urban regeneration and heritage thrive. The city is constantly evolving, always giving locals and visitors something new to explore. Expect street art and innovative projects, a bustling hospitality scene and established green spaces. Christchurch is the newest city in the world, and it’s time the world rediscovered its secrets.The central city is filled with cutting-edge architecture alongside some of the oldest buildings in New Zealand. The Avon River intersects the city, bringing a natural landscape to the urban environment.
The Craigieburn Valley is found on the Great Alpine Highway 73, just one and a half hours from Christchurch International Airport and 25 minutes from Arthur’s Pass. It is located between the small alpine village at Castle Hill and the township of Cass. The TranzAlpine Rail journey traverses this country following the Waimakiriri River which laces the foothills of the Southern Alps.
A subtropical wonderland of secluded bays, islands and history, the Bay of Islands is a coastal paradise. Get out on the water with a boat cruise or sailing charter and spot dolphins and whales frolicking in the water before seeing the Hole in the Rock, just off Cape Brett, up close. Stroll the streets of Russell, New Zealand’s first capital, and soak up its whaling and pioneering past. Learn about the birth of New Zealand in Waitangi, where the treaty that made New Zealand a British colony was signed.
