New Zealand November 1-15, 2025
About this trip
On this specially-curated itinerary, we will discover its majestic, unspoiled landscape, its stunning food and wine, and the warm hospitality of New Zealanders. On the North Island we’ll visit Waiheke, discovering its history and several of its best wineries; also on the North Island, we’ll experience a Restorative Journey at a Maori spa and visit a Maori master carver. On the South Island, we’ll really immerse ourselves in wildlife and nature and cuisine. There will be a fishing trip in the Pacific Ocean after which we will prepare our catch. Off the coast of Kaikoura we’ll go whale watching and then take the scenic Pacific Coastal train to Christchurch as the breathtaking coastal landscape goes by. We will also explore a remote area not included on most itineraries where we’ll discover a unique history of New Zealand’s origins that not even many Kiwis know.
Even for the well-traveled, New Zealand offers a uniquely refreshing experience. It stretches across the two main islands and is home to only 4.5 million people. Called “Land of the Long White Cloud” by its indigenous Maori people, this clean, green paradise is renowned internationally for its stunning scenery, fresh produce, award-winning wines and friendly, welcoming people. The South Island in particular has a coastline boasting dramatic scenery, captivating wildlife and splendid isolation. From snow-covered alpine peaks to lush rain forests and the coast, there is a treasure trove of geological and wildlife sites, which are all set amid a wonderfully uncrowded space. I hope you’ll join me on this very special and enriching journey next November.
DATES
November 1-15, 2025
PRICE
Shared Room $7,120
Internal airfare not included, estimated at around $810.
Day 1 - Arrival in Auckland (three nights)
“Haere Mai Ki Aotearoa” - welcome to the Land of the Long White Cloud. Your room will be available for check-in at 3:00 pm. If you have an early arrival, the hotel can store your luggage until your room is ready, or you may prefer to have the room booked from the night before to ensure immediate check-in on arrival. This afternoon, let’s Uber to the Auckland Art Gallery which showcases the faces and artefacts of New Zealand’s indigenous people. Discover their origins, the stories of their early endeavors in a new land, their spiritual understanding of the world, their language and customs, history and culture, all contained within a building that is a work of art itself. Later this afternoon there is free time for those who wish to head to the suburbs for a walk in Western Springs Park. Spend the afternoon and evening at leisure. This evening we’ll gather for dinner in the hotel restaurant.
Day 2 - City tour, picnic lunch
This morning is a very special experience. As day breaks take travel to a marae on Bastion Point for a Karakia (a prayer used to invoke spiritual guidance and protection) for your journey. This is optional, but well worth it.
After the prayer, our guide will share the history of the Maori and the significance of the area to his iwi (tribe).
Afterwards, we will begin to explore Auckland starting with the “Maungakiekie” volcanic summit in Auckland City set at 600 feet above sea level. Take in the 360ª views of Auckland and learn about the history of the mount. The rest of the tour will be
Continue on and enjoy scenery across the iconic Harbour Bridge that connects Auckland city to the suburb of the North shore. Explore Devonport, one of Auckland’s most historically authentic villages. It’s a place where time slows down and where boutique shops fill the spaces of Victorian-era buildings. We’ll also enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch on the beach.
En route back to the hotel there is the option to disembark at the Auckland Museum or go back to the hotel and check out shops along the waterfront.
Day 3 - Waiheke Island Tour
Our day trip to Waiheke Island today has a little bit of everything. Considered Auckland’s weekend playground, it’s reminiscent of both the Hamptons and Napa Valley with a little bit of Portland thrown in.
It begins with the very scenic ferry ride from Auckland to the island (a 40-minute cruise). Upon arrival we will be taken up to one of the best lookouts on the island to learn more about the island - past and present. Afterwards we’ll visit an artisanal olive oil producer, just one of the unique foods that thrives in the Waiheke microclimate. Then we’ll explore the northern coast of the island before our route takes us to the first of three boutique wineries followed by lunch at the second. We will have time for a stroll in a rainforest before we go to the final winery and then take the ferry back to Auckland. Dinner at leisure this evening.
Day 4 - Auckland -> Spa - > Lake Taupo (three nights)
This morning will be an early departure for a flight to Rotorua. Upon arrival, we’ll drive to Wai Ariki Springs Spa for a Restorative Journey. Drawing mineral rich waters directly from the earth, this package delivers a unique therapeutic, relaxing and rejuvenating experience, going through five distinct areas, each drawing on the centuries-old legacy of Ngāti Whakaue practices and culture.
Afterwards, we’ll drive an hour to Lake Taupo and check into the hotel. Dinner this evening at a Taupo bistro (paid directly).
Day 5 - 'Ko tahi Te ra' Experience
Today as a group, we’ll have an authentic Maori food experience just for us. Our host, Tom Loughlin, is warm and generous host and loves a to share stories. He is also passionate about the magic of the New Zealand bush and the Kaimanawa Ranges. He is more than just a host - he is a chef and caretaker of this special part of New Zealand. Here you will participate in traditional Maori food preparation and cooking of the hangi (feast). Afterwards our meal, enjoy a walk through the Orakei Korako Thermal Reserve. Learn how the Maori grew, stored, harvested, and captured their food. Through that, discover how they connected to the natural environment. (Please note - superb vegetarian options are available at all meals.)
Day 6 - Taupo
After breakfast, visit the studio of a local master carver Delani Brown. We’ll spend some time with him learning about the Maori craft of carving and visit sites with significant carvings. The Maori had no alphabet when Europeans arrived, yet were capable of reciting their genealogy dozens of generations back. This knowledge was kept in carvings and weavings, and blended with spiritual knowledge. The carver is second only to the chief in a tribe and is looked upon as a preserver of history, tradition and values. Delani will show us his own and other significant local designs.
A scenic boat cruise on beautiful Lake Taupō is one of the best ways to experience New Zealand's largest lake, and this will be our next stop. There is much to enjoy: from native water birds, beautiful bush-clad coves, the evocative Mine Bay Maori rock carvings and the breathtaking views of the mountains. On board, we’ll enjoy a light lunch of gourmet sandwiches, salads and a selection sweet treats and fresh fruit. Afterwards, we’ll return to the hotel for the rest of the afternoon and evening at leisure.
Day 7 - Blenheim -> Kaikoura (two nights)
Today we’ll fly to the South Island, starting in Blenheim, one of its three main wine regions. Upon arrival, we’ll visit the Fromm winery for a tasting and lunch. Their philosophy places terroir over technology, and grape quality over quantity. All Fromm wines are organic and have an emphasis on texture and drinkability.
We’ll continue to Kaikoura and check in at the hotel for the next couple of nights. Few places on Earth possess the magic of Kaikōura. Many who visit leave transformed. It is a special part of New Zealand, imbued with powerful natural energy. A place where tectonic plates collide, towering peaks fall to the sea and ocean currents converge. Take some time this afternoon to explore the town.
Day 8 - Private cooking class
Today will be a unique sea/land culinary experience. We’ll begin with a fishing trip along the coast. Once on the water, it will only be a short trip to abundant fishing grounds where we can expect some truly exceptional fishing action against a backdrop impressive local wildlife such as albatross and seals and the breathtaking Kaikoura mountain range. The ocean is rich with blue cod and sea perch and we will also have the opportunity to check the crayfish pots. Afterwards, we’ll take our catch into the kitchen to learn to fillet and cook your catch with the freshest ingredients, inspired by the wild Kaikōura landscape. When lunch is ready, we’ll settle down for a feast, accompanied by local wine and locally-brewed craft beers (as well as non-alcoholic beverages).
Day 9 Kaikoura -> Christchurch (one night)
This morning we’ll embark on a whale watching cruise . It was a whale that led the Māori ancestor Paikea to New Zealand many centuries ago. His descendants live in Kaikōura today. Fittingly, the whale continues to guide the people of Kaikōura and the visitors they host. The's group whale watch safari is a great adventure to learn about the incredibly rich marine life of this area. They congregate here because the 3km deep Kaikōura Canyon runs right up against the coast creating a rare system of sea currents that sustain an incredibly rich marine food chain.
Later this afternoon, we’ll take the Coastal Pacific train to Christchurch. Traveling along the rugged coastline on a timeless journey of breathtaking beauty. While we ease back and enjoy the seaside scenery and views of Marlborough's world-famous vineyards, we'll be servied a menu filled with freshly picked ingredients from the lands you pass through.
Day 10 Christchurch -> Akaroa (two nights)
Depart the hotel by coach this morning to visit the beautiful unspoilt old French whaling depot of Akaroa on Banks Peninsula. Akaroa was settled by the French in an early attempt to colonise New Zealand and still retains a good deal of French character in its street names, boutique shops and cafes.
On arrival to Akaroa, enjoy some free time to walk around this charming village before taking a harbor cruise during which we will meet the world’s smallest and rarest dolphins. Easily spotted by their distinguishable rounded dorsal fins, the Hector’s dolphins are only found in New Zealand waters. Watch while they ride the bow putting on a spectacular show.
Rugged cliff faces and dramatic panoramic views will take your breathe away. Dinner this evening is on your own, but there are plenty of great options.
Day 11 - Akaroa
This morning after breakfast the group will split in half. Six guests will spend the morning on a special tour of Akaroa and the other six guests will have the morning at leisure.
Get to know Akaroa with an inspirational nature & history tour with a seventh generation descendant from the French Settlers of Akaroa. The tours provide a deep understanding of New Zealand history and nature that fuses Māori and European history together to create a unique worldview that will inspire you.
Afterward, enjoy fish and chips on the beach with your six other fellow travelers from the other group, before they go for their tour.
Day 12 - Queenstown (three nights)
This morning we will depart early for the flight from Christchurch to Queenstown and the final three days of the trip. Situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by dramatic alpine ranges, Queenstown is a vibrant, buzzing little city and is breathtakingly beautiful, even by New Zealand's standards. Our accommodation here will be in wine country, in cottages of a historic sheep station, now a winery. Kinross Cottages are set on a vineyard, surrounded by views of the mountains AND within the Kawarau Gibbston Dark Sky Park.
On arrival at Kinross, we will have a Cellar Door tasting and lunch among the vines. Afterwards, enjoy the rest of the day to relax and explore the property. Feel free to take a walk among the vines or sit on your porch, looking at the view - just enjoying some downtime.
Day 13 - Queenstown
Today begins with a trip into Queenstown and a ride across Lake Wakatipu aboard a 1912 vintage steamship, the TSS Earnslaw. In between stunning views of Lake Wakatipu, you will have ample time to tour the bridge and decks of the TSS Earnslaw, visit the engine room and view displays on history in the Gallery.
We’ll disembark at Walter Peak High Country Farm, one of the first farms set up in the region and still a working farm. In the ambience of the Colonel’s Homestead, enjoy a delicious gourmet BBQ lunch which the chef will prepare in front of you. After lunch enjoy an entertaining brief farm experience including a sheep shearing demonstration. (This is a shared experience.) Afterwards, we’ll cruise back to Queenstown and then continue on to Kinross.
Day 14 - Queenstown
Today is a day at leisure to enjoy the many activities and attractions available in the area.
One option is to spend a wonderful day visiting Milford Sound. Travel by helicopter, and enjoy this world-famous area from the sky, including rainforest covered valleys and spectacular alpine lakes. On arrival take a cruise around the sound, during which you will see the Hanging Gardens and Fairy and Stirling Falls. You might also get to see some of the local wildlife, like New Zealand fur seals, dolphins and the very rare Fiordland crested penguin (spring/early summer).
Alternatively, spend the day in and around Queenstown. There is shopping and lunch for those wanting to stay close, or stretch your legs on a hike in the area. Meet back at the cottages for an optional final farewell dinner.
Departure
This morning, there will be an airport transfer from the cottages to Queenstown Domestic Airport.
On arrival to Auckland, you will be met by a driver who will take us back into the city for free time to explore some more. Return to the airport in the early evening to check in for your flight home.
