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This 8-day journey showcases how many luxury experiences of New Zealand’s North Island you can indulge in even if you are short on time. This curated escape blends natural beauty, cultural depth, and refined luxury for an unforgettable North Island adventure that can be catered to your specific taste.
Duration: 8 Days
Starts: Auckland
Finishes: Auckland
Where vibrant city life, waterfront views, and refined luxury set the tone for your North Island adventure
Upon arrival at Auckland Airport, you’ll be met and transferred to The Hotel Britomart, a refined retreat in the heart of the city. Once checked in, step out to explore Auckland—New Zealand’s largest and most cosmopolitan city. Wander the bustling Britomart precinct with its designer boutiques and vibrant eateries, then stroll along the Waitematā Harbour or take in views from the Sky Tower. From contemporary art galleries to waterfront dining and lush inner-city parks, Auckland blends urban sophistication with natural beauty—offering the perfect start to your luxury North Island escape.
2 Nights Accommodation at The Hotel Britomart
Sail in style aboard a luxury yacht, indulge in premium wine tastings and a gourmet vineyard lunch
Experience a luxurious day with Lusso Vigneto on Waiheke Island. Begin with a 45-minute cruise aboard the Italian-designed Wally 43 yacht, departing Auckland’s Viaduct and arriving at Kennedy Point Marina, complemented by a glass of champagne. On the island, enjoy curated visits to premier vineyards such as Mudbrick, Cable Bay, and Te Motu, indulging in tastings of award-winning wines amidst stunning landscapes. Savor a gourmet lunch at a vineyard restaurant, pairing exquisite cuisine with local vintages. This seamless blend of maritime elegance and viticultural excellence offers an unforgettable Waiheke experience.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Journey to New Zealand’s largest lake, is a sparkling volcanic caldera surrounded by alpine beauty
Begin your luxury journey by collecting your premium rental vehicle in Auckland and setting off on a scenic drive toward the acclaimed Huka Lodge in Taupō. As you leave the city, the landscape transitions into rolling green hills and tranquil farmland. Arrive at Lake Taupō, New Zealand’s largest lake, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, geothermal wonders, and dramatic volcanic landscapes. Nestled beside the Waikato River, Huka Lodge welcomes you with world-class hospitality and a serene, nature-filled setting for an unforgettable stay.
3 Nights Accommodation at Huka Lodge Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Approximate Distance: 270 km
Travel Time: 4 hours
Explore Lake Taupō in style with a luxury charter offering tailored experiences and premium service
A luxury private charter with Chris Jolly Outdoors offers an unforgettable way to explore Lake Taupō in style. Choose from an elegant fleet including the boutique Levante or spacious Cruise Cat, perfect for intimate escapes or larger celebrations. Enjoy tailored experiences such as trout fishing, scenic cruising to the Māori Rock Carvings, or gourmet dining on board. Optional enhancements include private guides, helicopter transfers, and cultural storytelling. Whether relaxing with champagne on deck or casting a line in pristine waters, Chris Jolly delivers a premium lake experience with impeccable service and local expertise.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy a private yoga session and massage or explore with a Huka Falls jet boat tour, helicopter flight or fly fishing trip
A free day at Huka Lodge blends relaxation and adventure. Start with a gourmet breakfast overlooking the Waikato River, then unwind with a book by the pool or stroll through the 17-acre gardens. Enjoy complimentary activities like tennis, pétanque, and croquet. For added indulgence, schedule a private yoga session or an in-suite massage. Optional excursions include fly fishing, jet boating to Huka Falls, or a scenic helicopter tour over Lake Taupō. As evening falls, savor pre-dinner drinks and canapés before a multi-course dinner featuring seasonal New Zealand cuisine.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Journey to Rotorua via Wai Ariki Spa, where Māori healing, geothermal bathing, create a deeply restorative experience
Embark on a tranquil journey from Huka Lodge in Taupō to Treetops Lodge in Rotorua, pausing at Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa for a rejuvenating experience. Indulge in the 150-minute Signature Massage + Sanctuary Bathing package, which begins and ends with a traditional karakia (prayer), and features a 90-minute mirimiri massage using native oils and plant remedies, complemented by access to geothermal pools overlooking Lake Rotorua. This culturally immersive spa treatment offers deep relaxation and a connection to Māori healing traditions. Afterwards, continue to Treetops Lodge, where luxury and nature harmonise for a restorative retreat.
2 Nights Accommodation at Treetops Lodge & Estate Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Approximate Distance: 80 km
Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Experience a dual landing on Mt Tarawera & Orakei Korako geothermal reserve
Combine the thrill of walking around the summit of Mount Tarawera with a scenic flight over crater lakes, Tarawera Falls, and the vibrant Waimangu and Wai-O-Tapu geothermal reserves. Descend over the Waikato River to land in the hidden valley of Orakei Korako. Enjoy an hour-long self-guided tour among bubbling springs, erupting geysers, and colourful silica terraces. The return flight offers views of farmlands and the Paeroa Range before soaring over Rotorua City and landing at the lakefront pier. This unforgettable adventure blends geology, culture, and natural beauty.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Make your way back to Auckland Airport in time for your onward journey
As your luxurious North Island adventure draws to an end, take in the final leg of your self-drive journey from Rotorua to Auckland Airport. The route offers a last glimpse of New Zealand’s natural beauty—verdant farmland, shimmering lakes, and distant volcanic peaks. Reflect on the unforgettable coastal escapes, indulgent culinary experiences, and immersive cultural encounters. With your bags packed and camera full, arrive at the airport relaxed and enriched, carrying the essence of Aotearoa with you as you prepare for your onward journey.
Included Meals: Breakfast
“This self-drive tour showcases the best of New Zealand’s North Island with luxury accommodation, stunning scenery, and exclusive experiences. It’s the perfect mix of freedom and indulgence—ideal for travellers who want flexibility without compromising on comfort or style.”
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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Hotel Britomart, located in Auckland, is a stylish boutique hotel that exudes contemporary elegance. Situated in the vibrant Britomart precinct, it offers easy access to the city’s attractions. The hotel boasts thoughtfully designed rooms with modern amenities and an emphasis on sustainability.
Nestled on 17 acres of lush countryside along the Waikato River, Huka Lodge in Taupo offers a luxurious escape just minutes from the iconic Huka Falls. Renowned for its elegant décor and exceptional service, the lodge features an outdoor pool, spa pool, tennis court, and free mountain bikes for exploration. A highlight is the exquisite multi-course tasting menu, paired with fine wines, making every evening unforgettable.
Treetops Lodge offers the ultimate in world-class luxury accommodation and is located in the heart of the trout fishing capital of the world and famed therapeutic thermal region, Rotorua, New Zealand. Nestled amidst magnificent native forests and valleys, Treetops Lodge & Estate offers a uniquely New Zealand experience. The Lodge with an elegant architectural style derived from this country’s pioneering past. Timber and stone finishes echo the beauty and simplicity of the great outdoors at Treetops Lodge.
As the name belies, ‘The City of Sails’ – as Auckland is fondly known – is a stunning sea side city. The city centre surrounds a large harbour that bustles with life, both on water and on land. In the Auckland region, the North Island is geographically narrow and the city straddles a slim piece of land with coastline facing both the Pacific Ocean, and, on the wild West Coast, the Tasman Sea. Boutique shopping, pulsing, Pacific-inspired markets and a passionate cafe culture make this city a charming place to visit.
Just 35 minutes by ferry from Auckland, across the beautiful Hauraki Gulf, Waiheke Island seems a million miles away in pace and beauty. Waiheke has a special charm and seaside holiday atmosphere. Waiheke Island is an eclectic mix of cultures, activities, vineyards, cafes, restaurants, art galleries, beautiful beaches, scenic walking tracks and much, much more. It’s a perfect relaxing, romantic escape; family holiday at the beach or weekend away. There are many outdoor activities and plenty to see and do, no matter what your interests or energy levels.
Impressive is the word best used to describe Lake Taupo; after all, it is the biggest volcanic crater in the World! Lake Taupo is set amidst clean, green countryside, spectacular mountain scenery, beautiful native bush and some of the largest pine forests in the Southern Hemisphere. Taupo offers many leisure activities including exploring the lake by boat for scenery or fishing; view the mighty Huka Falls or visit local geothermal sites with natural hot pools and springs, steaming craters and boiling mud pools.
Rotorua is surrounded by steaming lakes, bubbling hot pools and bursting geysers, host to some of the world’s most incredible natural forces. A heartland of Maori culture, the local people have embraced this turbulent land. For the traveller there is a breadth of attractions – families will enjoy viewing farm attractions and native wildlife, adventure seekers can experience world class white water rafting or mountain biking, while culture enthusiasts can experience indepth vibrant Maori traditions.
