CLASSIC NEW ZEALAND

Day 1 Arrive in Auckland

When you arrive in Auckland, collect your rental vehicle and make your own way to the Sofitel in the buzzing centre of Auckland. The rest of the day is at leisure for you to recover from the journey and perhaps take a stroll along the harbour front.

Overnight: Sofitel Auckland

Day 2 Free time exploring Auckland

Enjoy a free day in Auckland to do as much or as little as you please. Auckland is home to more than half of the country's population, but never feels crowded and is a delight to explore. We recommend a stroll around the harbour with time to stop in one of the many wonderful cafes. Around one hours' drive east of Auckland is the Coromandel Peninsula, a wild and beautiful area of forest trails, old gold mines and deserted beaches. You could pick up some ingredients for a delicious picnic and spend a leisurely afternoon exploring this beautiful region.

Overnight: Sofitel Auckland

Day 3 To Taupo via geothermal Rotorua

Leave the city behind today as you drive south to the picturesque surroundings of Lake Taupo. Along the way, make a stop to witness the lively geothermal activity around Rotorua with a visit to Oraki Kurako. You may also wish to ramp up the adrenaline with a canopy zip lining circuit through the forests near Rotorua before you continue your journey to Taupo and your boutique lodge offering panoramic lake views.

Overnight: Acacia Cliffs Lodge

Day 4 Taupo cycling & Huka Falls

Today you will delve into some of the highlights of the Taupo region. Take a leisurely cycle along the shores of Lake Taupo until you reach the stunning Huka Falls. After ample time explore the walkways and photograph the magnificent falls, you will embark upon a thrilling jet boat ride that takes you right to their base.

Overnight: Acacia Cliffs Lodge

Day 5 Leisure time in Taupo or golf at Kinloch

Spend another day enjoying the attractions of Taupo and your charming lodge. Golf lovers must not miss the opportunity to play a round at the Kinloch Golf Club - New Zealand's only 18-hole Jack Nicklaus signature course. If golf does not appeal, you could kayak past the Maori rock carvings at Mine Bay, go hiking or rafting and fishing on the Tongariro River.

Overnight: Acacia Cliffs Lodge

Day 6 To Hawkes Bay

Today you will journey south on an easy two-hour drive to the eastern coast of the North Island and your charming country lodge in Hawkes Bay. This afternoon you could take advantage of the tennis court, swimming pool, inviting spa or sample one of Mangapapa's legendary High Teas.

Overnight: Mangapapa Hotel

Day 7 Wine tasting in Hawkes Bay

Spend a full day exploring some of the fabulous wineries to be found around Hawkes Bay. A private guide and driver accompanies you today, meaning you do not have to concern yourself with transport. You can simply dive head first into the fabulous scenery, wine estates and cuisine of glorious Hawkes Bay.

Overnight: Mangapapa Hotel

Day 8 To Wellington

Continue your journey through the North Island down to Wellington, on the island's southernmost tip. Contrast the natural landscapes of the previous days with the urban surroundings of New Zealand's capital city, which has a character all of its own.

Overnight: The QT Wellington

Day 9 Explore Wellington

With its café culture, rolling hills, waterfront promenades and Victorian timber architecture, New Zealand's small capital has big appeal. Wellington is renowned for its award-winning restaurants and creative energy. Much loved by locals it has various nicknames including Wellywood, reflecting its role as the production base for the Lord of the Rings films. Visit its lively harbour, enjoy its sandy beaches and take in its hip boutiques. For panoramic views ride the cable car from Lambton Quay shopping area to the glorious botanic garden.

Overnight: The QT Wellington

Day 10 Cross the Cook Strait & train to Kaikoura

Rise early for a short drive to drop off your rental vehicle and enjoy the wonderful three-hour ferry crossing to the South Island. The journey across the Cook Strait, Marlborough Sounds and Tory Chanel is often referred to as one of the most spectacular in the world. On arrival in Picton, board he scenic trans-coastal train to Kaikoura where you will stay in a spectacular treehouse at Hapuku Lodge, offering views over the ocean and mountains.

Overnight: Hapuku Lodge & Treehouses

Day 11 Whale watching in Kaikoura

Today make your way to Kaikoura for an exhilarating whale watching experience. From your boat you might see dolphins, seals and other marine life whilst waiting for the magnificent sperm whales to surface. Return to the mainland and collect your vehicle before making your way towards Christchurch. On arrival at Annandale farm, the lodge owners will meet you and take you to Shepherds Cottage, a blissfully private cottage surrounded by stunning scenery, where you can explore or simply relax and enjoy the views over the Pacific Ocean and snow-capped peaks.

Overnight: The Shepherds Cottage, Annandale

Day 12 Free time in Annandale

On your free day in Annadale, you may wish to explore your delightful natural surroundings on foot as there are several easily accessible walking trails. The Pigeon Bay Walkway is particularly lovely, and your hosts will provide a delicious picnic lunch and a map for you to take with you. There are bicycles to ride, kayaks to paddle, fishing charters and cooking classes. Relaxing at the cottage with a good book is equally enjoyable.

Overnight: Shepherds Cottage Annandale

Day 13 Travel to Mount Cook

Bid farewell to Annandale and collect your hire car for a scenic drive across the centre of the South Island to Mount Cook. The Mount Cook region - Aoraki - is one of New Zealand's most dramatic and beautiful. The ever-changing mountain panoramas will be on full display at your inviting hotel facing out to Mount Cook.

Overnight: The Hermitage Hotel

Day 14 Tasman Glacier heli-hike

An unforgettable adventure awaits today as you soar over Mount Cook and the rugged mountains by helicopter and land on the Tasman Glacier. Here, a fabulous glacier hike awaits where you can take in the dazzling scenery that surrounds New Zealand's largest glacier.

Overnight: The Hermitage Hotel

Day 15 To Queenstown

From Mount Cook, travel south along the mountainous spine of the South Island until you reach Queenstown. This thriving town is one of the liveliest on the South Island, and you will be based at a boutique hotel that is perfectly positioned for sampling some of Queenstown's best restaurants and bars.

Overnight: The Spire

Day 16 Queenstown adventures

New Zealand's adventure capital is brimming with opportunities for adrenaline-filled activities as well as more leisurely pursuits showcasing the wonderful lake and mountain surroundings at a more gentle pace. Included today is one of Queenstown's most quintessential experiences - a thrilling jet boat ride through a pristine river valley, marking an exhilarating finish to your time in New Zealand.

Overnight: The Spire

Day 17 Depart

Travel to Queenstown airport today for your domestic flight to Christchurch or Auckland, followed by your international flight home.