Ultimate Lodge Experience in New Zealand
Two islands offering breath-taking landscapes, a fascinating Maori culture, a foodie paradise and adrenaline pumping activities. Welcome to New Zealand! To make the experience even more unforgettable, nothing beats the charm of lodges.
The ultimate lodge experience in New Zealand is a 9 day itinerary takes you to three beautiful settings, starting off in Northland and the Bay of Islands, followed by a gourmet stop in Hawke’s Bay and finishing off with some adventure in Queenstown.
We’ve selected 3 superb lodges which you will call home during your holiday: The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs in the Bay of Islands, The Farm at Cape Kidnappers in Hawke’s Bay and Matakauri Lodge in Queenstown.
Day 1: Arrival
Upon arrival into Auckland, you will catch your flight to Bay of Islands airport, and from there be transferred to your first accommodation. The remainder of the day is at leisure. You can stay on the property and take a farm tour or relax in the hotel’s swimming pool, which overlooks the bay.
Day 2: Fishing and discovering the beauty of the Bay of Islands
In the morning, set off on a land based fishing excursion to one of the three private beaches (Waiaua Bay, Pink Beach or Little Takou). You will be able to taste your catch as the chef will be delighted to prepare them as part of your evening meal.
After your fishing excursion, you can choose to try your hand at surfing or perhaps take a scenic helicopter flight over Northland and the Bay of Islands. If you’re a little scared of heights, you can always chose to explore the Bay of Islands by Sea.
Day 3: A day on the links
Golf aficionados, what better way to start off your day by hitting the green! With the astounding scenery, you are bound to have a memorable day on the course.
If you’re not a golf enthusiasts, there are still many beautiful places to be explored; with 6000 acres, Kauri Cliffs boasts numerous great nature walks! If you just want to pamper yourself, nothing beats a nice massage at The Spa.
Day 4: From Bay of Islands to Hawke’s Bay
Early morning, you will be transferred to Hawke’s Bay where you will discover a new region in New Zealand’s North Island. A true paradise for foodies, the charming city of Napier is also home to world-class galleries, boutique shopping and wonderful climate. One of the main pull of the region is also the many wineries where you can do wine tasting.
Once you arrive into your hotel, take a tour of the extensive property – 6,000 acres with working sheep and cattle farm. For a little adventure, hop aboard a quad bike for your tour. If you’ve always wanted to try your hand at horse-riding, now’s your chance! The hotel can organize a horse trek allowing you to admire the beauty of Cape Kidnappers at the same time.
Day 5: Kiwi Discovery Walk
An exclusive experience awaits today, the Kiwi Discovery Walk. The Farm at Cape Kidnappers is home to the countries native bird, the Kiwi, which you will be able to get up close to during the day. You will be able to observe guides caring for the Kiwis and learning more about this fascinating creature.
Later on in the afternoon, you can choose to go on a wine tour and get a taste of the local flavours or perhaps take a scenic flight over Hawke’s Bay.
Day 6: On the links
Another great golf course, Cape Kidnappers has been hailed as one of the great modern marvels in golf and ranked the 38th best golf course by Golf Magazine.
Day 7: From Hawke’s Bay to Lake Wakatipu
Your next destination lies 10 minutes away from Queenstown, along the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Queenstown is a haven for those looking for a little adventure with spectacular backdrops. Once you arrive, take a short walk in the vicinity to familiarize yourself with the omnipresent beauty. You can also choose to take a scenic cruise up and down Lake Wakatipu on the 100 year old steamer the TSS Earnslaw or, for a more adrenaline pumping activity, the Shotover Jet Boat ride, with full 360 degree spins.
Stay: Matakauri Lodge
Day 8: Discover Milford and Doubtful Sound
The entire day will be taken up by a visit to Milford and Doubtful Sound. Whether you opt for a helicopter scenic ride or a cruise along the sea, you are sure to be enthralled by the amazing sights you will come across. Milford Sound is a world-renowned natural wonder with mountain peaks that stand tall, waterfalls tumbling down, and greenery throughout.
In the evening, indulge in a soothing massage at the hotel.
Stay: Matakauri Lodge
Day 9: Departure
You will have the morning at leisure to continue to explore the marvels that Queenstown has to offer before being transferred to the airport for your return flight.
Itinerary
| Duration | Description | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1: | Arrival | The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs |
| Day 2: | Fishing and discovering the beauty of the Bay of Islands | The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs |
| Day 3: | A day on the links | The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs |
| Day 4: | From Bay of Islands to Hawke’s Bay | The Farm at Cape Kidnappers |
| Day 5: | Kiwi Discovery Walk | The Farm at Cape Kidnappers |
| Day 6: | On the links | The Farm at Cape Kidnappers |
| Day 7: | From Hawke’s Bay to Lake Wakatipu | Matakauri Lodge |
| Day 8: | Discover Milford and Doubtful Sound | Matakauri Lodge |
| Day 9: | Departure |
Inclusions
Included
- Accommodation with daily breakfast
- Excursions
- Transfers or car hire
- Activities with guides
- 24 hour emergency contact
Not Included
- International flights
- Visa if necessary
- Personal expenses
- Hotel early check in / Late check out
- Tips and gratuities
- Travel insurance (please note that this is required for all Lightfoot Travel holidays)
Map
From USD 6,500 per person based on two persons travelling
Notes on our prices
- This price guide provides you with a broad indication of how much to budget for your holiday.
- Prices are generally based on two people travelling together (unless stated otherwise) on a shared room basis.
- Prices can fluctuate depending on season, standard of accommodation, excursions selected (private versus shared) etc.
- This basic structure works very nicely, but don’t forget that Lightfoot Travel can provide a range of experiences and we tailor-make each itinerary based on your travel requirements. Get in touch to start planning your perfect trip with your own travel consultant.
Your Travel Designer
Mei Yun
Itinerary Highlights
- Experiencing the charm of New Zealand’s best luxury lodges
- Scenic helicopter flights over astounding landscapes
- Adrenaline pumping activities in Queenstown
- Golfing on some of the world’s best links
Price Guide
From USD 6,500 per person
