9 Days / 8 Nights
For the Independent Traveler
Departures: Daily
from $2999 per person, double occupancy
Treetops Lodge & Wilderness Estate
Few places in the world embody the spirit of adventure more than the award-winning Treetops Lodge & Wilderness Estate. Situated in more than 2,500 acres of private wilderness in New Zealand's famed thermal region, Treetops is a carefully managed game and wildlife habitat for fly fishermen, sporting enthusiasts and their pampered guests. The Lodge with its elegant, architectural style derived from the country's pioneering past, echoes the beauty and simplicity of the great outdoors.
Offering the ultimate in world-class luxury accommodation, Treetops provides a haven with breathtaking scenic views, seven trout streams, four lakes, over 43 miles of hiking trails, mountain bike riding and horse riding. Treetops offers 4 suites and 8 private, ultra-luxurious villas. Each suite has its own unique style, design and exquisite furnishings.
Grasmere Lodge High Country Retreat
The villas, positioned a stroll from the Lodge, offer privacy and seclusion with views over lakes and wildlife.Located high in New Zealand's Southern Alps, Grasmere Lodge High Country Retreat offers a world of peaceful serenity, just an hour from Christchurch. Local attractions include trout fishing at one of the nearby lakes and rivers; kayaking on Lake Grasmere; walks in the native beech forests of Arthur's Pass National Park; or skiing on a choice of five ski fields (seasonal) - all within easy reach of the lodge. Perhaps travel between Christchurch and Grasmere on the TranzAlpine Train, recognized as one of the world's most scenic rail journeys.
Sofitel Queenstown
Situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, against a backdrop of the aptly named Remarkable Mountains, Queenstown is renowned for its spectacular scenery, countless adventure activities and delectable food and wine. Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa is located in the heart of this lake and alpine resort, with 82 well appointed rooms and suites.
With breathtaking views over Auckland Harbor and surrounding parks, Hyatt Regency Auckland provides a serene sanctuary from the bustling city center just a short stroll away. Located high in New Zealand's Southern Alps, Grasmere Lodge High Country Retreat offers a world of peaceful serenity, just an hour from Christchurch. Local attractions include trout fishing at one of the nearby lakes and rivers; kayaking on Lake Grasmere; walks in the native beech forests of Arthur's Pass National Park; or skiing on a choice of five ski fields (seasonal) - all within easy reach of the lodge. Perhaps travel between Christchurch and Grasmere on the TranzAlpine Train, recognized as one of the world's most scenic rail journeys. Situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, against a backdrop of the aptly named Remarkable Mountains, Queenstown is renowned for its spectacular scenery, countless adventure activities and delectable food and wine. Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa is located in the heart of this lake and alpine resort, with 82 well appointed rooms and suites. With breathtaking views over Auckland Harbor and surrounding parks, Hyatt Regency Auckland provides a serene sanctuary from the bustling city center just a short stroll away.
Included
8 nights accommodation 5 days full-size car rentalPrivate car transfers as indicatedPersonalized Rotorua Touring4WD sheep station tour, Grasmere8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 5 dinners Not included:
Note: International and domestic airfare not included. One-way car rental dropoff fee not included. All prices, itineraries and routings are subject to change. Please call your Travel Agent for our current prices.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to New Zealand
Upon arrival at Auckland airport, transfer by private car to your 5-star hotel. Day at leisure to wander Auckland Viaduct Basin - previously home of America's Cup. Overnight: Hyatt Regency Auckland, Regency Room for 1 night
Day 2: Auckland-Rotorua
Pick up your rental car this morning and drive 4 hours south to Rotorua, home of the bubbling hot springs and Maori culture. Your accommodation for the next 2 nights is Treetops Lodge, sprawling over spectacular terrain and offering extensive outdoor pursuits for the discerning adventure traveler. Full breakfast, pre-dinner drinks, canapes and a 4-course dinner are included daily. Overnight: Treetops Lodge & Wilderness Estate, Lodge Suite for 2 nights (B,D)
Day 3: Discover Rotorua
Enjoy an amazing journey through the volcanic wonders and natural history of Rotorua. Leave the city behind and head to Wai-O-Tapu, the thermal wonderland of geysers, mud pools and colorful hot springs. After morning tea, continue to Lady Knox Geyser and the Waimango Volcanic Valley. Board your vessel for an unbelievable cruise on Lake Rotomahana followed by a sumptuous lakeside lunch. Witness a myriad of wildlife and awe inspiring geothermal steam bursts, bubbling out of the largest hot springs in the world. The tour's duration is 9 1/2 hours. (B,L,D)
Day 4: Rotorua - Christchurch
Depart this morning for the airport and your connecting flight to Christchurch on the South Island of New Zealand (airfare not included). Upon arrival at Christchurch Airport, pick up your rental car and take a leisurely drive out to Grasmere Lodge High Country Retreat. The remainder of today is at leisure. Overnight: Grasmere Lodge, Lakeview Deluxe for 3 nights (B,D)
Day 5: Merino Sheep Station Tour
Join an experienced guide in a 4WD touring Grasmere's 13,000 acre sheep station, enjoying the spectacular views. See how New Zealand's famous fine wool merino sheep are raised and what happens to the wool. You are welcome to observe or take part in seasonal farming activities. (B,D)
Day 6: Outdoor Adventures
After enjoying breakfast, experience some of the numerous activities Grasmere Lodge has to offer. Take in spectacular views of the ranch as you explore it on horseback. Other activities include kayaking, mountain biking, fishing and skiing. We recommend an optional scenic flight over Arthur's Pass National Park. Relax in the evening after you enjoy a five-course dinner at the lodge. (B,D)
Day 7: Grasmere - Queenstown
Return to Christchurch where you connect with your flight to Queenstown (airfare not included). You will be met on arrival and transferred by private car to the ideally situated Sofitel Queenstown. Enjoy this evening at leisure to explore this alpine town and dine at one of the many fine restaurants along the lake shore. Overnight: Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa, Deluxe Lakeview Room for 2 nights (B)
Day 8: Queenstown
Discover today why Queenstown is known as New Zealand's "adventure capital." With countless activities available including jet boating along picturesque rivers, scenic helicopter flights, tours to the majestic Milford Sound and surrounding wineries, you can be as active as you like. Or choose to relax at the hotel and soak up the surrounds, and treat yourself to a treatment at the onsite spa. (B)
Day 9: Depart Queenstown
Today is at leisure until you are transferred by private car to Queenstown airport for your onward flight (airfare not included). (B)
Day City Hotel
Day - 1 Auckland - Hyatt Regency Auckland
Day - 2, 3 Rotorua - Treetops Lodge & Wilderness Estate
Day - 4, 5, 6 Christchurch - Grasmere Lodge
Day - 7, 8 Queenstown - Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa
