Nature’s Masterpiece

Begin with two nights at Park Hyatt Auckland, overlooking Waitematā Harbour, putting the waterfront within easy reach. Then take to the skies by private seaplane for Waiheke Island, where vineyards tumble towards bays and lunch stretches into late afternoon. A private food and wine tour introduces you to the island’s local flavours before returning to Auckland.

Continue south to Huka Lodge, Beckons, tucked beside the turquoise waters of the Waikato River. Spend two nights here, with the option to visit the famous Hobbiton movie set or venture underground to witness the glowing Waitomo Caves. For something active, hike with a private guide around Lake Taupō or tackle the volcanic landscapes of the Tongariro Crossing.

Three nights at Rosewood Cape Kidnappers follow. Perched above Hawke’s Bay, this sprawling coastal retreat feels removed from everyday life, with rolling green farmland giving way to rugged cliffs and sea. Explore one of New Zealand’s great wine regions privately, stopping at local vineyards for tastings, good food and conversations with the people behind the bottles.

Then fly south to Christchurch for two nights at Otahuna Lodge, a grand Victorian homestead surrounded by gardens and countryside. A cooking class makes use of seasonal produce, while a private day on Banks Peninsula takes you through the harbour town of Akaroa. Next up, it’s on to the water for a dolphin cruise and a completely different perspective of the coastline.

Arriving by private helicopter through the Southern Alps, watch snow capped peaks and glacial landscapes unfold below as you travel to The Lindis Lodge for two nights. Remote and beautifully isolated in the Ahuriri Valley, The Lindis feels entirely disconnected from the real world, with little around you beyond mountains, tussock grasslands and an open sky.

Inside, the lodge is warm and understated, with spacious suites featuring floor to ceiling windows, deep bathtubs and private terraces. Spend time in the elegant lounge beside an open fire or slip into the outdoor hot tub as mountains rise around you. After dark, the lack of light pollution makes stargazing particularly special.

Up next is a night at Rosewood Matakauri, located just outside of Queenstown. From here, fly by private helicopter across the Southern Alps to Milford Sound, where mountains soar and waterfalls plunge into dark waters.

Change your vantage and be at one with the glacier-carved sea inlet with a stay aboard Fiordland Jewel, a custom designed, three-deck catamaran that sleeps a maximum of 22 guests. Cruise between towering peaks and quiet coves, dine on board and be surrounded by wilderness.

Back in Queenstown for a final night, a private tour opens up galleries, local artists and scenic highlights as well as giving you free time to explore. And yes, that should include a Fergburger – the Queenstown institution that has earned its famously long queues. It’s a relaxed note after two weeks of adventure and scenery.