Part of the First Light Travel Group
South Pacific Specialists
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Take a delicious journey through the country’s premier culinary regions—from Waiheke Island and Hawke’s Bay to Marlborough, Central Otago, and beyond. Enjoy exclusive vineyard tastings, gourmet dining, and immersive food experiences with local artisans, all paired with stunning landscapes and boutique accommodations. It's the ultimate exploration of Aotearoa’s rich flavours and fine wines.
Duration: 20 Days
Starts: Auckland
Finishes: Queenstown
Ease into the timezone with an easy "When in Auckland" Private Walking Tour
Arrive in New Zealand’s largest city, set on picturesque Auckland Harbour. You’ll be met at the airport, and transferred to your accommodation. Explore the city on foot from downtown Auckland with a personal guide. The exact route of the tour will be tailored accordingly to your interests. Whether it be Maori culture, boutiques, local arts and crafts, food or heritage architecture – everything can be covered on this tour. You will walk at a pace to suit and always allow time for photo stops. Discover the city Aucklanders love, far from the beaten path.
2 Nights Accommodation at The Hotel Britomart
Board the ferry for a return day trip to wine and dine on Waiheke Island
Delight in fresh Te Matuku Bay oysters, award-winning olive oil, and locally sourced delicacies paired with wines from Waiheke Island’s top boutique vineyards. Visit a prestigious olive oil mill and enjoy tastings at two acclaimed vineyards known for gourmet pairings. Indulge in treats like wild honey, the island’s signature green herb spread, and artisanal cheeses. Your knowledgeable guide shares engaging insights throughout the journey. Enjoy a leisurely platter lunch at one of the island’s finest vineyard restaurants before being chauffeured back to your accommodation or the ferry, concluding a day of culinary discovery.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Geothermal wonderland and cultural heartland, known for its bubbling mud pools and natural hot springs
Rotorua is nestled among vibrant geothermal landscapes, featuring steaming lakes, bubbling mud pools, and impressive geysers that showcase some of the planet’s most extraordinary natural phenomena. This region is a cultural cornerstone for the Maori, whose deep connection to the land is evident in their traditions. Rotorua is also renowned for its unique geology, with a rich volcanic history contributing to breathtaking scenery. The area boasts stunning forests, serene lakes, and diverse flora and fauna, making it a true gem.
2 Nights Accommodation at On the Point Luxury Lodge Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Approximate Distance: 230 km
Total Driving Time: 2 hours
Behind-the-scenes Māori Arts and Crafts cultural tour and a traditional geothermally cooked feast
Experience one of New Zealand’s top attractions in a uniquely intimate way with a private guided tour of the Māori Arts and Crafts Institute. Enter via the exclusive southern gate and explore the geothermal valley and cultural schools without queues. Gain behind-the-scenes insight into traditional carving and weaving, and admire artworks in the on-site gallery. Conclude with a geothermally cooked Māori feast prepared by a private chef, paired with local wines and live music performed by a Māori artist.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Visit the Mighty Huka Falls and explore the unique Art Deco architecture of Napier
Depart Rotorua this morning and drive east to picturesque Hawkes Bay, one of New Zealand’s renowned wine-producing regions. Huka Falls is five minutes’ drive from Taupō town centre and is well worth a stop. Once you leave the lakeside resort of Taupō and cross a forest clad plateau, crossing the Mohaka River before descending down the Esk Valley to the Pacific Ocean which provides a stunning backdrop to the Hawke’s Bay. The city of Napier was rebuilt due to a large earthquake in the 1930’s and is now a showpiece Art Deco City.
2 Nights Accommodation at Craggy Range Included Meals: Breakfast
Approximate Distance: 250 km
Total Driving Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Journey through acclaimed vineyards, pairing world-class varietals with gourmet cuisine and countryside views
This luxury private wine tour in Hawke’s Bay is ideal for wine enthusiasts, offering a tailored exploration of the region’s renowned wineries. Enjoy expert insights into local varietals, regional history, and wine education as you sample standout reds like Syrah, Merlot, and Pinot Noir, along with whites such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Gris. Dessert wines like Semillon and Riesling may also feature. The tour includes visits to five boutique or well-established wineries and a delicious two-course lunch, making for a rich and immersive wine-tasting experience.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Renowned for its creative energy, waterfront charm, and rich blend of culture and cuisine
Located between a dramatic harbour and bush-clad hills, Wellington has earned its reputation as “the coolest little capital in the world.” As New Zealand’s cultural and political heart, it is home to Parliament, a vibrant arts scene, and the acclaimed national museum, Te Papa. Wellington’s thriving café culture is celebrated globally, drawing coffee lovers from around the world. The city also plays a starring role in the film industry, most famously as the creative hub for the Lord of the Rings trilogy and numerous other cinematic productions.
3 Nights Accommodation at Sofitel Wellington Hotel Included Meals: Breakfast
Approximate Distance: 325 km
Total Driving Time: 5 hours
A culinary journey featuring artisan coffee, award-winning chocolates, lunch, gelato, craft beer, and scenic drives
Embark on Kaewa Tours’ private 7-hour Wellington Foodie Delights Tour, a curated culinary journey through New Zealand’s vibrant capital. Begin with a hands-on “bean to cup” coffee roasting experience at a local roastery, followed by sampling award-winning artisan chocolates at Baron Hasselhoff’s. Enjoy a gourmet lunch at the iconic La Bella Italia or Avida, then indulge in handcrafted gelato at Zelati Dessert Café. The tour concludes with a craft beer tasting at Fortune Favours Brewery and a scenic drive around Mt. Victoria and the Eastern Bays. All tastings, lunch with a beverage, and transport are included .
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Enjoy the perfect day with vibrant culture, waterfront walks, boutique shopping, and world-class cuisine
Wellington offers a vibrant mix of urban life and natural beauty. Spend your day wandering through the city’s lively streets, filled with street art, local cafés, and unique shops. Explore the creative galleries that showcase Wellington’s artistic vibe, then relax in one of the city’s peaceful gardens. For a great view of the city, take a short walk up one of the hills nearby. With everything close together, you can easily enjoy the art, culture, and charm that make Wellington special.
Included Meals: Breakfast
The heart of Marlborough’s wine making district, renowned for its world-class Sauvignon Blanc and relaxed rural charm
Today you will be transferred to Wellington Airport and fly to Blenheim. Set in the picturesque Wairau Valley, Blenheim is surrounded by stunning vineyards and rolling hills of Marlborough. The changing colors of the vines through the seasons create a beautiful landscape. Known for its fertile soils and sunny climate, the region produces exceptional wines. Nearby, the Marlborough Sounds offer breathtaking views, while the town itself features a vibrant culinary scene and cultural attractions, making it a delightful destination.
2 Nights Accommodation at The Marlborough Boutique Hotel & Vineyard Included Meals: Breakfast, Pre-dinner Drink & Canapés
Guided exploration of the Wairau and Southern Valleys vineyards and enjoy a hosted Cellar Door tasting
Embark on an exclusive journey through the heart of Cloudy Bay with the Private First Taste Tour, hosted by a knowledgeable Cloudy Bay Ambassador. Travel in style aboard a beautifully restored 1985 Land Rover Defender as you explore select vineyard sites, each showcasing the unique soils and microclimates that shape the estate’s renowned wines. Learn how terroir influences flavour and aroma, before enjoying a flute of Pelorus NV atop Mustang Vineyard, overlooking the Wairau Valley. Enhance your visit with an optional meal at Jack’s Raw Bar, the winery’s seasonal outdoor restaurant.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Pre-dinner Drink & Canapés
A coastal town renowned for its marine wildlife encounters and natural beauty
Today you will continue your journey to Kaikoura. Few places offer such breathtaking natural wonders, where ocean meets snow-capped mountains in spectacular coastal alpine scenery. Kaikoura is renowned for eco-tourism adventures, including whale watching, dolphin and seal encounters, and scenic walks. At Hapuku Lodge, guests can explore the landscape with mountain bikes or set out on short or long walks from beach to bush, with an optional picnic and a botanical tour of the local native flora.
2 Nights Accommodation at Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Approximate Distance: 130km
Total Driving Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Take a breathtaking whale-watching flight before landing at Hapuku Kitchen for a hands-on cooking class
Experience the best of Kaikōura with South Pacific Helicopters’ Whales & Hapuku Kitchen tour. Begin with a scenic helicopter flight over the Kaikōura Canyon, where you’ll spot majestic whales and sweeping coastal views. After your aerial adventure, touch down at the renowned Hapuku Kitchen for an intimate cooking class hosted by Chef Fiona Read. Forage from the garden, prepare seasonal dishes using local ingredients, and enjoy a leisurely lunch paired with regional wines. This exclusive 4.5-hour experience combines marine wildlife, fine cuisine, and hands-on culinary discovery in a breathtaking setting.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy an exclusive food experience in Christchurch that blends curated tastings with rich Māori culture
A progressive dinner with a twist! At night the City of Ōtautahi Christchurch provides a whole new atmosphere, your local hosts know the best spots that are guaranteed to delight your senses. Join the mystery journey, your host will introduce you to the local culture, discover delicious kai (food), ignite the senses with paired liquid delights and immerse you in the emerging foodie scene. Something to suit even the fussiest of eaters.In between courses your local host will let you in on some of the city’s best kept secrets, you will learn Māori culture and the team will introduce you to some of the friendly locals as you move through the vibrant and dynamic city of Ōtautahi Christchurch.
1 Night Accommodation at The George Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Approximate Distance: 180 km
Total Driving Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Discover a stargazing experience like no other underneath some of the world’s clearest, darkest skies
Embark on a scenic drive from Christchurch, stopping at Lake Tekapo to admire its turquoise waters and the Church of the Good Shepherd. Continue past the stunning Lake Pukaki, with reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook, before arriving at the serene Mount Cook Lakeside Retreat. Situated within the Aoraki International Dark Sky Reserve, the retreat offers an unforgettable stargazing experience. Join your hosts for a dark sky tour at the Pukaki Observatory, followed by a wine and whisky tasting and an astrophotography session capturing distant planets and star clusters.
2 Nights Accommodation at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Approximate Distance: 285 km
Total Driving Time: 4 hours
Sip fine whisky on a private helicopter escape to New Zealand’s most remote high-country hut
Experience the ultimate alpine escape with Mackenzie Helicopters’ Whisky Hut adventure. Departing from Lake Tekapo, enjoy a scenic flight over snow-capped peaks and dramatic high country before landing at “The Bad Decision,” a remote whisky hut nestled deep in the Southern Alps. Inside this off-grid retreat, sip on a handpicked selection of premium whiskies while taking in breathtaking 360-degree mountain views. Step outside to tee off biodegradable golf balls into the vast wilderness below. This exclusive 90-minute experience offers indulgence, seclusion, and stunning scenery in one unforgettable package.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Framed by soaring mountains, Queenstown is a premier destination for adventure, luxury, and natural beauty
Set within the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand, Queenstown captivates with its unparalleled beauty and serene ambiance. The pristine shores of Lake Wakatipu reflect the majestic mountains, creating a stunning backdrop. The charming streets are lined with vibrant shops and cafes, inviting exploration. Rich in Māori culture, Queenstown offers a unique glimpse into New Zealand’s heritage. With its tranquil setting, Queenstown promises an unforgettable escape into nature’s wonders, making it a must-visit destination.
3 Nights Accommodation at Eichardts Private Hotel Included Meals: Breakfast
Approximate Distance: 210 km
Total Driving Time: 3 hours
Private Farm, Lunch and Wine Experience at Royalburn Station
The Private Rustic and Robust Royalburn Farm Tour by Alpine Luxury Tours offers an immersive five-hour journey into the heart of sustainable high-country farming. Guests enjoy exclusive access to Royalburn Station, exploring regenerative agriculture practices and meeting the stewards behind them. The experience includes a guided farm tour, a private wine tasting with Mora Wines, and a chef-prepared BBQ lunch at the historic Prohibition House. Luxury Mercedes transfers from Queenstown ensure comfort throughout. Optional enhancements like helicopter transfers or a sunset dinner elevate this authentic New Zealand adventure.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
A tailor-made wine experience, offering exclusive access to Central Otago’s finest vineyards and winemakers
Central Otago, famed for its dramatic landscapes and mountainous terrain, is home to some of the world’s finest wines, particularly its celebrated Pinot Noir. From Queenstown, enjoy a private full- day wine experience, showcasing the diverse subregions of Gibbston, Bannockburn, and beyond. Through exclusive relationships with renowned wineries and winemakers, enjoy access to truly exceptional, privately hosted wine tours, each led by expert and passionate connoisseurs.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Return to Queenstown Airport for your onward journey
As your 20-day culinary journey through New Zealand draws to a close, take a moment to reflect on the flavours, landscapes, and warm hospitality that defined your experience. From vineyard tastings to chef’s tables, coastal seafood to mountain feasts, each day has celebrated the best of Aotearoa. With your palate enriched and your spirit inspired, depart with cherished memories and a deeper connection to New Zealand’s food, wine, and culture. Until next time—haere rā and bon appétit!
“From vineyard valleys to ocean-view kitchens, this 20-day culinary journey through New Zealand invites you to savour the soul of the land—one glass, one plate, and one unforgettable bite at a time.”
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 in Lake Rotorua’s glistening waters, On The Point is a luxurious sanctuary with stunning views. Immerse yourself in vibrant culture or unwind by the cozy fireplace. Indulge in heavenly spa treatments, private beach fly fishing, aquatic sports, tennis, and boating excursions.
Located at Craggy Range’s Giants Winery in Havelock North, in the heart of New Zealand’s Hawke’s Bay, Craggy Range’s Vineyard, River and Garden Cottages and Luxury Lodges offer boutique accommodation among the vines under the escarpment of Te Mata Peak.
Nestled in lush botanical gardens, Sofitel Wellington blends French elegance with the charm of New Zealand’s capital. Located near Parliament, shopping, and Sky Stadium, the 5-star hotel offers luxurious rooms with Sofitel MyBed and chic French amenities. Guests enjoy Club Sofitel’s breakfast, refreshments, and evening canapés. Dine at La Serre Bar or Jardin Grill, and unwind at Sofitel Fitness or explore Wellington’s landmarks like Te Papa and the Cable Car.
Nestled within 16 acres of lush gardens and a working vineyard, The Marlborough Boutique Lodge offers an intimate escape in the heart of New Zealand’s renowned wine country. Guests unwind in one of ten elegantly appointed rooms, each featuring contemporary design and private balconies with views of the surrounding landscape. The historic lodge, originally a 1901 convent, seamlessly blends heritage charm with modern luxury. On-site, the acclaimed Harvest restaurant serves seasonal, locally sourced cuisine, complemented by estate-grown wines. With amenities like a heated outdoor pool, tennis courts, and guided vineyard tours, The Marlborough provides a tranquil yet enriching retreat
Nested 30 feet (9 meters) up amidst a canopy of native Manuka grove is Hapuku Tree Houses, offering spectacular views over Kaikoura’s dramatic coastline. Each tree house has been designed to complement the natural environment, made from native woods and copper shingles.
The George hotel in Christchurch typifies luxury at every level. Extensive facilities, comprehensive service, excellent quality and attention to detail. Experience our signature style and consistent personalised service. The George restaurant – the award-winning 50 Bistro offers a beautiful setting overlooking Hagley Park, event spaces offer natural light, seclusion and all the modern conveniences while the accommodation offers 5-star comfort.
Experience world-class service at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat. Set in Lake Pukaki in the Canterbury region, Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat offers accommodation with free WiFi and free private parking, as well as access to a hot tub. The accommodation features a hot tub. All units come with a fridge, microwave, a coffee machine, a minibar and kettle. There is a private bathroom with shower in every unit, along with free toiletries, a hairdryer and slippers. The lodge offers a sun terrace.
Eichardt’s Private Hotel is a Queenstown icon providing fine accommodation in seven luxurious Lake View Suites, four comfortably appointed Lakefront Apartments, The Residence and The Penthouse, all situated on premium lakefront positions in the heart of Queenstown. Eichardt’s opulent suites invite guests to soak up a sense of quiet before exploring one of the world’s truly remarkable locations. The hotel suites all feature a super-king bed, fireplace and mini-bar, a dressing room and bathroom.
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.
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.
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.
Nestled between a dramatic harbour and bush clad hills, Wellington was recently dubbed as ‘the coolest little capital city in the world’. The city is the country’s centre for culture, politics, and home to the National Museum, Te Papa.
Surrounded by nature and fuelled by creative energy, Wellington is a compact city with a powerful mix of culture, history, nature and cuisine. Fuel your visit with strong coffee and world-class craft beer – Wellingtonians are masters of casual dining, with plenty of great restaurants, night markets and food trucks.
Few places in the world can boast of such natural wonders as those offered by land and sea in Kaikoura. Situated midway between Christchurch and Picton on the rugged east coast of New Zealand’s South Island, Kaikoura is overlooked by majestic mountains, which are snow-capped for many months of the year. This unique combination of ocean and mountains offers stunning coastal alpine scenery and a host of eco-tourism oriented activities, including Whale watching, Dolphin and Seal swimming, walks, and much more!
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.
Lake Tekapo is about three hours drive south-west of Christchurch in the Mackenzie Basin. The township faces north across the remarkable turquoise coloured lake to the mountainous drama of the Southern Alps. Lake Tekapo gets its intense milky-turquoise colour from the fine rock-flour (ground by glaciers) which is suspended in the water.
The unforgettable night sky reveals why Lake Tekapo has a reputation for clear air. Lake Tekapo offers a wide range of outdoor activities throughout the year including hiking, mountain biking, fishing, kayaking and skiing.
MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK
Mt Cook National Park is known for its exquisite alpine beauty and is home to the highest mountain in New Zealand, Mt Cook. Its Maori name, ‘Aoraki’ means ‘cloud piercer’ and at 12,016ft (3,755m) it towers above the surrounding snow-covered peaks in the park. A third of the park is covered in permanent ice and snow and the mighty Tasman Glacier is the longest glacier outside of the polar regions. This is the very heart and soul of a World Heritage and National Park wilderness playground. Ice, snow, hidden valleys, lakes and glaciers offer golden opportunities for discovery, relaxation and adventure.
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.
