LUXURY LODGES OF NEW ZEALAND BY PRIVATE JET

18 November 2021: As your Tour Manager, Denise Van Sever welcomes you on this journey

18 November 2021: Your accompanying Tour Doctor for this journey is Dr Michele Zwi

Departing from Sydney, our private jet crosses the Tasman Sea and swiftly delivers us to New Zealand’s dreamy Bay of Islands region. Arriving at Kauri Cliffs Lodge in the afternoon, we admire its serene location on a sweep of unspoilt coastline and protected by a cluster of steep cliffs. Celebratory drinks and canapes are served before we are invited to a gourmet Welcome Dinner in one of our lodge’s elegant dining areas. Local produce caught and cooked fresh today by a team of expert resident chefs is the perfect start to our adventure.

Which direction to take today? Your World experiences offer two choices on how to spend your day. To fully appreciate the emerald islands and white sand beaches dotted across the sparkling sea, perhaps set sail aboard a private boat cruise. Alternatively, explore the region with a visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, as well as a culinary expedition to Northland’s finest food and wine artisans. We return to our lodge in time for dinner, ready once again to be captivated by the punchy flavours of the region.

Choose how to spend your day, thanks to a range of Your World experiences. Perhaps practice your swing with a round of golf at the lodge’s award-winning golf course. Or, delve into the region’s history on a guided heritage tour across Kauri Cliffs. There’s an option to visit a working farm. For the nature lovers, opt to embark on a scenic walk and follow the path to Hikurua waterfall, Waiua Bay or Little Takou Beach. Finally, perhaps indulge in a day of pampering at the lodge’s spa. We reconvene for dinner at our lodge.

After breakfast, we drive to Kerikeri airport and board our private jet for the journey to Taupo. Upon arrival, we join a private cruise along famous Lake Taupo, where we view Maori rock carvings. Our residence is Huka Lodge, a plush retreat rivalling the best in the world. The lodge welcomes us for a three-night celebration of the gorgeous Waikato River and its surroundings. Relax and marvel at the lush country, then prepare for a sumptuous five-course dinner prepared by Chef Paul Froggatt, whose resume boasts stints at multiple Michelin-starred restaurants around the world.

With such an abundance of natural beauty surrounding us, it may be difficult deciding how to spend your day. Relax on Huka Lodge's grounds or join a morning trip to Rotorua, where Maori culture and geothermal wonders speak to the essence of New Zealand’s spirit. Begin with a visit to Te Puia, home to the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute. Continue to the powerful Pohutu geyser, and stop in at Whakarewarewa, the Living Maori Village. We return to our lodge in the late afternoon. This evening, a momentous five-course dinner is served.

A selection of Your World experiences on offer this morning are the ideal way to make the most of Taupo’s abundant natural beauty. Try your hand at fly fishing at Tongariro River. Visit Opepe Scenic and Historic Reserve, where you will see the stunning native forest and call in at the graves of cavalry officers who perished in a fight with Māori warrior Te Kooti. Or, play a round of golf at either Kinloch or Wairakei golf course. The day culminates with a five-course dinner at our lodge.

After breakfast at Huka Lodge, we trade the rustic countryside for gleaming Queenstown, rejoining our jet for the South Island. On arrival, the Skyline Gondola takes us over the city. Up here, the 220-degree panorama takes in Lake Wakatipu, Coronet Peak and The Remarkables range. We separate to our respective residences, Matakauri Lodge or Eichardt’s Private Hotel.

Our journey continues with a drive through dramatic Kawarau Gorge to Gibbston Valley Winery, home of New Zealand's largest underground wine cave. Taste distinctive varietals while learning about the winemaking process. Just down the road, Gibbston Valley Cheese crafts artisanal sheep, cow and goat cheeses in the European style. We stop for lunch in charming Arrowtown, a village rich with pioneering and gold rush history. A free afternoon then presents the chance to experience Queenstown at your own pace, whether through exploration and adventure or rest and relaxation.