Audley New Zealand & the South Pacific

N e w Ze al and & Th e S o u t h Pac i f i c

Ta i lor - m a d e J o u r n e y s

for

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D i s c e r n i n g T r av e l l e r

Dear Traveller With truly awe-inspiring landscapes just asking to be explored and photographed, New Zealand is one of the most beautiful countries I’ve visited on my travels. It’s not just the scenery that makes it special however. There’s a wide range of outdoor activities, unique flora and fauna, and vibrant towns and cities, all bound together by the warmth and friendliness of the people you meet. Maybe that’s why I’ve been drawn back several times. Across both islands you will undoubtedly discover the delights of New Zealand’s food and wine too, from experiencing a traditional Maori hangi to sampling local farm produce, the freshest of seafood and the country’s exceptional wines.

Easily combined with New Zealand, or as a destination in its own right, the South Pacific is the tropical paradise of the imagination. If you can tear yourself away from the beautiful beaches and turquoise lagoons you’ll also discover a thriving island culture and wonderfully friendly people.

I hope you will find that the passion our specialists have for the region is reflected in the pages of this brochure, and that it inspires you to visit these beautiful destinations for yourself.

Craig Burkinshaw, Founder

Introducing Audley I

t was a trip around Asia in the early 1990s that ignited Craig Burkinshaw’s passion for travel.

On his return he was so keen to share his experiences that he founded Audley, or Asian Journeys as we were then called. We offered a new type of travel – individual journeys, designed to match the traveller’s interests, tastes and budget, created with an absolute commitment to quality and authenticity. Today this desire to share authentic travel experiences is undiminished and Audley is one of the UK’s most highly regarded specialist tour operators, providing tailor-made trips throughout Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, Australasia, North America, Antarctica and the Arctic.

Specialist knowledge

Tailor-made journeys

Speaking to one of our specialists is the best way to start planning your trip, whether you already know where you want to go or just have the seed of an idea. They can discuss your plans, offer advice and give you ideas and inspiration for your trip, before creating a detailed itinerary, which will be forwarded to you together with maps, accommodation descriptions and a price.

The same specialist will then refine the plans until you are completely satisfied and will be on hand to answer questions from your very first telephone call until you return from your trip.

The beauty of tailor-made travel is that every trip is unique. Whether you want to stay in simple or luxurious accommodation, have great guides on hand or explore under your own steam, travel for one week or five, we can create a trip to match your tastes and budget. We can also design trips for a special occasion, whether this is a spectacular honeymoon or milestone anniversary. Throughout the brochure you will find suggested itineraries and some of our favourite places to stay, but these are all just for inspiration as each trip is created uniquely for you and there are many more options available.

Our New Zealand and South Pacific specialists have all travelled extensively throughout the region and in many cases lived there, so you can rely on their in-depth, first-hand knowledge.

They regularly return to discover new hidden gems in each country, stay in the accommodation and meet our guides – many of whom are firm friends – as well as experience all the excursions and activities. We believe this is the only way that we can genuinely offer you a tailor-made service and enable you to experience a side of New Zealand and South Pacific that others might miss.

Planning your trip

Financial security All travel arrangements in this brochure that include a flight from the UK are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is 4817. Those package arrangements which are not protected by our ATOL are covered by ABTOT, the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust. Please see our booking conditions for more information or visit www.audleytravel.com/protect

Polynesian woman, Samoa

Contents Introduction 2-7 New Zealand 8-67 North Island 10-33 Maori cultural experiences Cycling in New Zealand

23 34-35

South Island 36-67 New Zealand wine & food

42

Fiordland National Park cruises

57

Sub-Antarctic Islands

63

Walking & trekking

64-65

The South Pacific 68-85 Cruising & sailing

73

Diving 81 Getting there 86 Useful information 87

Introduction

3

Experience

New Zealand & the South Pacific W

ith sublime scenery, vibrant cities, fine food and Maori culture, New Zealand has a wealth of experiences to enjoy. The exotic South Pacific islands operate at a slower pace and offer all the white tropical beaches, crystal-clear lagoons and swaying coconut palms you could wish for. Situated just a short distance from New Zealand they are perfect for an extended trip or as a stop en route.

Landscapes

Fijian girl, Vanua Levu

For the majority of visitors, it is New Zealand’s majestic scenery that is the greatest draw. From snow-capped peaks to rumbling volcanoes, pristine beaches, glacial lakes, tranquil fiords and lush forests, the landscapes are incredibly diverse and almost otherworldly in their beauty. Both the North and South islands share many common features but they are also wonderfully different. The North Island is fertile and volcanic, cloaked in dense native forest and edged with spectacular coastlines. The South Island is less populated and more extreme, with the jagged spine of the Southern Alps forming a natural barrier from the rolling Canterbury Plains, while further south the mountains are peppered with sparkling alpine lakes. The island nations of the South Pacific offer archetypal scenes of palmfringed beaches and tropical lagoons, but some islands also offer dramatic mountain peaks and rolling fields of sugar cane.

Culture Lake Rotoiti, near Saint Arnaud, South Island

War canoe, Waitangi Treaty Grounds, North Island

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The countries in this region all have dynamic cultures that are made up of a unique combination of traditional heritage, colonial history and geographic isolation. New Zealanders are proud of their Maori roots, and the culture and language of the indigenous people are part of the fabric of modern society. The arrival of Europeans resulted in a large decline in the Maori population and although today Maori constitute less than 10% of the overall population, their culture is still very much alive. In the small, remote South Pacific islands, strong Polynesian and Melanesian cultural values survive, making them both a glorious place to relax and a fascinating one to explore.

Wine tasting near Gisborne, North Island

Food & drink You can sample a variety of culinary delights across the countries in this region. New Zealand’s major cities are known for their fine restaurants and organic, seasonal, local produce is at the forefront of most menus right across the country. However, dishes of more humble origin such as a true Kiwi pie, a roast or fish and chips are never far away. For the uninitiated, New Zealand fish and chips are an entirely new experience. Wonderfully fresh hoki, blue warehou or red cod, complemented by a side of kumara chips. For those seeking traditional Maori fare, experiencing the smoky flavours of a hangi (food cooked in an earth oven) is a must. It goes without saying that the best way to accompany all of this is with a glass of local wine and this small nation has established a reputation for fabulous wineries, many internationally acclaimed.

The cuisine of the South Pacific centres on superb seafood including tuna and mahi-mahi (dorado), and the Polynesian staples of coconuts, breadfruit, yams, sweet potatoes, taro and tropical fruit. Religious festivals are celebrated with a delicious roast suckling pig, usually cooked in a traditional hot stone underground oven.

Cathedral Cove, Coromandel Peninsula, North Island

Festivals & special events

Wildlife

Colourful festivals are held regularly across New Zealand and the islands of the South Pacific. On the North Island of New Zealand, music and arts are widely celebrated and our favourite events are the Wellington Fringe Festival and the World of Wearable Arts show. Wine and food are celebrated on the South Island where you have the Marlborough Wine and Food Festival and for the more adventurous, the fabulous Hokitika Wildfoods Festival. Sport is a key feature of the nation and every rugby match is dubbed a special event by locals; watching a game played by either the infamous All Blacks or a local Sevens team is a rousing and energetic experience. Visitors to Fiji, and other parts of the South Pacific, should not miss participating in a traditional kava ceremony. This traditional drink is offered to visitors as a sign of friendship and welcome.

New Zealand’s varied terrain and geographical isolation have proved the ideal breeding ground for a unique collection of flora and fauna. Close descendants of prehistoric wildlife such as the tuatara (a lizard-like reptile), weta (an insect species) and giant snail still inhabit the forests, but it is the birdlife which really takes centre stage. With no natural predators many of New Zealand’s bird species became flightless including the kiwi, takahé, kakapo and the world’s largest bird, the now extinct moa.

At a number of coastal locations you can spot rare yellow-eyed penguins or little blue penguins, and the South Island is home to the largest mainland breeding colony of royal albatrosses in the world. New Zealand’s waters sustain abundant marine life including dolphins, whales and fur seals, and we work with several local operators who focus on protecting these species and offer you a unique glimpse of their world.

Kiwi, North Island

In the South Pacific shallow tropical reefs are home to shoals of exotic fish as well as manta rays, sharks, humpback whales, dolphins and sea turtles. Small islets and atolls are populated with boobies and frigate birds whilst the tropical rainforests of the larger islands are home to honeyeaters and brightly coloured parrots.

Sperm whale off Kaikoura, South Island

Vineyard near Blenheim, South Island

01993 838 800 • Introduction

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Explore

New Zealand & the South Pacific

Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, North Island

Activities

Walking

The rugged landscape of New Zealand begs to be explored on foot, by bike, by boat or by air.

Pioneering individuals have dreamed up an array of adrenaline-pumping extreme sports, but you don’t have to throw yourself off a suspended platform into a steep-sided gorge to appreciate the country’s superb scenery. Drift along an untouched coastline in a sea kayak, take to the air on a helicopter flight, skim shallow braided rivers in a jet boat or cycle along a historic railway route; whatever you choose you will get to see New Zealand from a different angle.

Boat trips abound, and even those who find water travel uncomfortable will be delighted by the tranquil waters of Fiordland or some of the country’s beautiful lakes. You will also find world-class golf courses and excellent fishing. The South Pacific by comparison has coral atolls teeming with iridescent marine life that make for unsurpassed swimming, snorkelling and diving.

Walking – or ‘tramping’ as the locals call it – is a national pastime in New Zealand. There are endless day walks as well as multi-day ‘great walks’, and at almost any point along your route you will find short tracks, boardwalks and nature trails just off the main highway, always well marked and complete with Department of Conservation information boards that describe the local flora and fauna. Longer trails offer anything from basic hut accommodation to comfortable lodges, but due to their popularity these often need to be booked well in advance.

These can easily be incorporated into your itinerary and your specialist can advise you on both the scenery and level of difficulty. Walking is also a delightful way to explore the exotic landscape of the South Pacific islands; some islands offer superb beach walks whilst on others trails take you through verdant vegetation, past waterfalls and to lookout points with superb coastal views.

Angelfish off Tahiti, French Polynesia

Jet boat near Queenstown, South Island

Cycling in Central Otago, South Island

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Lady on the beach, Rarotonga, Cook Islands

Self-drive New Zealand is a wonderful country to explore with a hire car; the roads are scenic, safe and largely empty. All of our specialists have driven extensively around the country and can recommend the best routes to suit you. On a self-drive itinerary we will book your accommodation in advance and provide clear and detailed driving directions and timings as well as a road atlas or sat nav, leaving you free to relax and take in the many sights you will pass along the way. Alternatively, you may prefer the freedom and flexibility of a motorhome. There are plenty of well-maintained motorhome parks on both the North and South Islands. Whilst self-driving in the South Pacific is not generally necessary, it is possible to drive around the two islands of Samoa, which allows you to explore at your own pace.

Driving in New Zealand

TranzAlpine Train, South Island

Railway journeys

Touring & guides

New Zealand does not have an extensive railway network, but there are a few key routes through some of the country’s finest scenery which can be structured into a self-drive itinerary. The best known of these is the TranzAlpine Railway which traverses the Southern Alps between Christchurch and Greymouth, but other options include the Coastal Pacific Railway between Picton and Christchurch, or the historic Taieri Gorge Railway from Dunedin. The trains are comfortable and functional with panoramic windows to allow you to sit back and absorb the views.

Some people prefer the peace of mind and social aspect of travelling as part of a group or with a local guide, and in addition to our tailor-made trips we can arrange for you to join a small group tour, which will provide innovative and interesting journeys around New Zealand. Alternatively we are able to personally recommend a large number of day trips led by excellent local guides, meaning that even on an independent self-drive trip you can join guided day tours in the areas which interest you the most.

01993 838 800 • Introduction

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New Zealand N

ew Zealand remains one of the world’s most popular destinations and those who make the journey are amply rewarded with a wonderfully diverse array of experiences.

Most famous for its sublime landscapes, New Zealand offers dramatic vistas at every turn. Even the finest photographers struggle to fully capture its beauty and seeing it with your own eyes really is the only option. So varied is the landscape that you can expect to start a day dwarfed by rumbling volcanic peaks, then journey through dense ancient forests, traverse rich fertile plains and skirt shimmering lakes before ending on a long stretch of empty golden sand. Along with the awe-inspiring landscapes New Zealand is the place to explore Maori heritage, experience vibrant cities, indulge in the freshest seafood and enjoy sincere and generous Kiwi hospitality. A trip here offers a range of experiences from walking in the mountains, spotting rare yellow-eyed penguins and cruising on one of the peaceful waterways of the sounds, to sampling some of the world’s finest wines.

Audley in New Zealand

Paihia Whangarei

Great Barrier Island

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Hamilton

Pohutu Geyser, Rotorua

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Coromandel Peninsula

Auckland

Bay of Plenty

Whakatane

New Plymouth

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Napier Hastings

Hawke’s Bay

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Cook Strait

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Gisborne

Lake Taupo Tongariro National Park

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East Cape

Rotorua Taupo

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Te Anau

Lake Wakatipu

Dunedin Invercargill Foveaux

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North Island New Zealand’s North Island offers an incredibly diverse choice of attractions for visitors. It is home to both the country’s largest city, Auckland, and its capital, Wellington. Both cities offer waterfront locations, cosmopolitan nightlife and an array of top-class restaurants. Outside the major urban centres you will find ancient kauri tree forests, lush vegetation and big game fishing in the Bay of Islands; secluded beaches and rugged rainforest on the Coromandel Peninsula; and volcanic peaks and sacred Maori sites in Tongariro National Park. For world-class vineyards head to Hawke’s Bay, while Lake Taupo is renowned for its fishing and water sports, and in steamy Rotorua you will find a combination of fascinating Maori culture and fizzing geothermal activity.

Bay of Islands

Kerikeri

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Our specialists regularly return to re-visit their favourite places and to explore new areas, hand-picking hotels and bed and breakfasts with superb locations and individual character along the way. During our extensive travels we have also identified the best way of travelling from place to place.

Internal flights are used when necessary but where possible we prefer to make use of the spectacular road, rail and ferry journeys that cross the country. We would be delighted to share our detailed knowledge of the country with you to ensure that you get the very best from your trip.

Cape Reinga

F CI PA

New Zealand is a particularly hassle-free destination in which to travel, and because of its compact size we can plan a trip to suit you that encompasses a diverse range of landscapes and experiences. We will make recommendations for the most scenic walks, bicycle rides and driving routes and offer tips on really getting under the skin of the country with activities such as swimming with dolphins, light aircraft glacier landings and nocturnal Maori walks through ancient giant kauri forests.

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Akaroa Canterbury Bight

South Island The South island is defined by magnificent vistas and outdoor experiences. Riven by mighty glacier-clad mountain ranges and punctuated with pristine alpine lakes, the sheer drama of the South Island’s landscape has to be seen to be believed. The region is the birthplace of many adventure sports and you can tramp, climb, kayak, bungee, ski and sail to your heart’s content. Christchurch, Dunedin and Queenstown are attractions in their own right, and the lure of the Marlborough Sounds’ sculptured valleys, Abel Tasman’s inviting beaches, and Fiordland’s awe-inspiring mountains and spectacular sounds are hard to ignore.

www.audleytravel.com/newzealand • 01993 838 820 • New Zealand

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North Island N

ew Zealand’s North Island offers a world of contrasting highlights to explore. Most visitors arrive in Auckland, the country’s largest city, with its expansive yacht-filled harbour, islands, Maori culture and buzzing urban environment. To the north lies the pretty Bay of Islands with the historic town of Russell where the Waitangi Treaty between Great Britain and the Maori chiefs was signed in 1840. Further south, the unspoilt Coromandel Peninsula boasts pristine coastal scenery whilst inland, pastoral farms contrast with the sulphurous boiling mud, hissing fumaroles and spurting geysers of Rotorua and the geothermal plateau. Mighty Lake Taupo offers a wide variety of outdoor activities and nearby lie the active volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park. On the North Island’s eastern coast, Hawke’s Bay is renowned for the Art Deco city of Napier and for its long-established wineries.

Finally, in the south of the North Island lies the nation’s cosmopolitan capital, Wellington, home to the superb Te Papa Tongarewa Museum, the Parliament Buildings and Old St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Bay of Islands

Kerikeri

Russell Paihia

Tongariro National Park Waipoua Forest

Whangarei Great Barrier Island

Warkworth

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1 Bay of Islands 3

Harbour Sail an America’s Cup yacht on one of the world’s finest harbours.

See page 12

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Thames

2 Waiheke Island Home to coves and beaches, vineyards and local artists, just a short ferry ride from Auckland.

See page 13 3 Auckland

Coromandel Peninsula

Auckland

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Take a boat trip or swim with dolphins in these pristine waters.

See pages 14-15

Waiheke Island

Waihi

Hamilton

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Bay of Plenty Whakaari (White Island)

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Accommodation in the North Island is widely found towards the coastline, and in almost every location we can suggest unique properties with outstanding sea views. We have personally selected a wide variety of accommodation options, that cater to an equally broad range of tastes and budgets.

These include luxurious lodges, boutique B&Bs where Kiwi hospitality is showcased at its best, traditional farmstays, and a range of hotels and inexpensive motels.

Our specialists will be delighted to make recommendations to suit you.

Kaitaia

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Accommodation

Waitangi Treaty Grounds 1

Ninety Mile Beach

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The North Island has so much to offer the visitor it can be hard to know how best to combine destinations and activities, but our specialists can advise on itineraries, journey durations and sights to see along the way.

Whether you are looking to explore Auckland, relax on the delightfully secluded beaches of the Bay of Islands, discover the geothermal wonders of Rotorua or go wine tasting amongst Hawke’s Bay’s vineyards, we can plan your trip to match your interests and ensure you get the most out of your time. The scenic highways make driving a pleasure so it is easy to plan a route taking in the lovely beaches and kauri forests of the north, some magnificent coastal scenery, the volcanoes and lakes of the central region and the vineyards of the east and south. We can also recommend how to best combine the North and South Islands and add in a range of off-the-beaten-track destinations that offer an insider’s view of life in Aotearoa, the Maori name for New Zealand.

Cape Reinga

Tasm an S ea

Audley in the North Island

Lake McLaren

Whakatane

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Rotorua

Taupo

Gisborne

5 New Plymouth

Lake Taupo Tongariro National Park

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4 Rotorua

Explore the epicentre of New Zealand’s geothermal plateau as well as the city’s tangible Maori culture.

See page 22

East Cape

Mount Ngauruhoe Mount Ruepeha

NORTH ISLAND

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Hawke’s Bay

Hastings Wanganui

Palmerston North

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SOUTH ISLAND

National Park Discover this geologically spectacular national park on foot or by 4x4.

See page 25

Cook Strait

Explore the largest lake in New Zealand.

See page 24

Masterton Martinborough WELLINGTON

7 Art Deco Napier Join a guided walk and discover some of Napier’s finest examples of Art Deco architecture.

See pages 26-27

www.audleytravel.com/newzealand • 01993 838 820 • North Island

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Auckland Harbour at twilight

Auckland Life in Auckland revolves around its twin harbours and is known as the ‘City of Sails’ for good reason. Cradled by and built around a series of volcanic cones, views of the waterfront abound. This combination of urban and marine, coupled with a sunny climate, has created a vibrant environment with one of the most sought-after lifestyles in the world. The city also features colonial timbered houses with elaborate detailing that give way to imposing government buildings and modern glass towers, which catch the light making the city appear to shimmer.

Queen Street, Auckland’s golden mile, is the major shopping area, complemented by Parnell and Ponsonby – leafy inner suburbs with lovingly restored Victorian and Edwardian villas, galleries, boutiques and alfresco cafes. Much of the dining and entertainment is centred around the lively Viaduct Basin, home to two America’s Cup sailing events.

The Sebel Auckland Viaduct Harbour

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Hotel DeBrett, Auckland Located in the heart of Auckland, Hotel DeBrett was built in 1841 as the city’s first hotel. Today, this iconic building has been stylishly remodelled into a 25 room boutique hotel with a glassroofed atrium and courtyard. Each room is unique, boasting an eclectic mix of contemporary furniture, fittings and artwork collected by the owner from around the world. The House Bar, the soul of the hotel, has been meticulously restored and has become a fashionable local meeting place that is complemented by a private drawing room for exclusive use by hotel guests.

The Sebel Auckland Viaduct Harbour With one of the best locations in Auckland, The Sebel is situated right in the heart of the Viaduct Harbour district. This is a bustling area filled with the city’s finest bars, restaurants and cafes and is only a minute’s walk away from Queen Street’s theatres and shops. This all-suite property combines the services of a top hotel with the freedom of self-contained facilities. The 126 rooms are large, each comes with kitchenette and city or harbour views and many have private balconies.

Sky City Grand Hotel, Auckland The newest addition to the Sky City entertainment complex, the Grand blends style and elegance with its central city location. The 312 rooms are spacious and contemporary with impressive finishing touches and thoughtful decor. There is a huge range of facilities to enjoy including several great restaurants, a spa, heated lap pool and a gym.

Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour This stylish waterfront hotel is nestled between the sophisticated shops and restaurants of Viaduct Harbour and the Wynyard Quarter overlooking the shimmering Waitemata Harbour.

Guests in each of the 172 spacious rooms and suites benefit from private balconies, floor-toceiling windows and marble bathrooms. With impeccable service, a champagne bar, gourmet restaurant and swimming pool, sauna and spa, you may never wish to leave.

Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour, Auckland

Sky City Grand Hotel, Auckland

Vineyards, Waiheke Island

Hotel DeBrett, Auckland

Devonport With a distinctly historical flavour, Devonport is a quaint 19 th-century village ten minutes’ ferry ride from central Auckland. Now an established suburb, it retains many well-preserved Victorian and Edwardian timber buildings transformed into brasserie-style restaurants, cafes, art galleries and enchanting homes. It is a wonderful place to visit, but – with a number of great boutique guesthouses – can also be a quiet and rewarding out-of-centre city base.

Waiheke Island Vineyards, olive groves, white-sand beaches, rocky foreshores and relaxed seaside villages make up rustic Waiheke Island. Just off the coast from Auckland, it is a refuge for a community of artisans and organic farmers. Waiheke offers visitors a glorious retreat from the city and boasts over a dozen wineries, several of which can be visited. The island is accessed via a 30 minute ferry crossing or short flight and is ideal for a couple of days’ relaxation after a long international flight.

The Boatshed, Waiheke Island

The Boatshed, Waiheke Island This captivating property overlooks Oneroa Bay and was inspired by the early 20 th century boatsheds that are scattered along New Zealand’s shores. The interior stylishly reflects a subtle nautical theme and the seven bright, sunny guest suites enjoy panoramic views. The excellent accommodation, great food, friendly service and quirky local artworks create a setting that reflects the laid-back attitude of the island.

The beach and village are within easy walking distance and the ferry terminal for Auckland is five minutes away by car.

Onetangi Beach Apartments, Waiheke Island These 30 fully self-contained, serviced apartments on Waiheke Island are comfortable and modern. Each apartment is fresh, bright and airy, and most have their own private deck or balcony and sea views. The apartments are located right on the beautiful two kilometre stretch of white sand that is Onetangi beach and close to fabulous vineyards, the Museum of Waiheke and the Forest and Bird Onetangi Reserve. You can try your hand at numerous outdoor activities nearby such as horse riding, zip lining and kayaking or simply relax on the beach and sample the local wines.

Devonport, Auckland

Great Barrier Island Just a 30 minute flight from Auckland and beautifully unspoilt, Great Barrier Island is a haven for wildlife and nature lovers. The interior is laced with walking paths through magnificent forests, hot springs and historical kauri dams.

The best paths are found in Great Barrier Forest where, after a couple of hours’ tramping, you can reach Hirakimata, the island’s highest point, with views across to the Coromandel Peninsula and Auckland. On the coast, Great Barrier also has some of the North Island’s finest surf beaches, whilst diving in the crystal-clear waters is a delight. With limited accommodation options, the sheer isolation of the island is its attraction and makes it the ideal tranquil retreat.

Great Barrier Island

www.audleytravel.com/newzealand • 01993 838 820 • North Island

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Aerial view of the Bay of Islands

Bay of Islands The small townships of the Bay of Islands region are steeped in colonial history and are set against a patchwork of gently rolling farmland and ancient forests of venerable kauri trees. For most, however, it is the coast that is the main draw. The clear Pacific waters, which are teeming with marine life including seals and whales, shelter 144 islands fringed with countless secluded bays. You may wish to take to the water to fully appreciate the area’s natural beauty, either on a Cape Brett and ‘Hole in the Rock’ cruise from Paihia, or on board the R. Tucker Thompson, a replica of a 100 year old schooner.

Other highlights include swimming with dolphins and fishing.

Decks of Paihia B&B

Decks of Paihia B&B

Paihia The centre for all water-based activities in the area, Paihia is made up of three pretty bays and is sheltered from the ocean by the Russell Peninsula. The first dwelling was built here by the Europeans as a mission station in 1823, and from these modest beginnings it has developed into a travel hub for the Bay of Islands and the north.

From Paihia’s bustling wharf it is possible to arrange sea kayaking, sailing and much more.

Allegra House, Paihia

Allegra House, Paihia

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In a quiet position high on the hill overlooking Paihia and the ocean, Allegra House is both welcoming and well located. The four guest suites all have stylish modern furnishings, private balconies and sunny seating areas. There is a lounge on the first floor and spectacular ocean views at every turn. Breakfast is served either in the breakfast room or on the balcony. Your hosts are available to share their extensive knowledge of the area.

This modern and good value bed and breakfast is perched high above the town of Paihia with views over the native bush and out into the bay. There are just three guest rooms at the property, all spacious and light, which open onto expansive decks where you can relax at the end of the day.

Nestled in the gardens is a sunny pool area, and the guest rooms all share a cosy but spacious lounge. Your hosts, Philip and Wendy, are on hand to help you plan your time in the bay.

The Sanctuary at Bay of Islands, Paihia With sweeping views of the sea, this property is perfectly positioned for exploring the region’s numerous attractions. Each of the four rooms features floor-to-ceiling windows and an expansive outdoor deck offering wonderful panoramic vistas. The lodge has an outdoor swimming pool, library, bar and a welcoming restaurant where breakfast is served.

The Sanctuary at Bay of Islands, Paihia

Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Russell Collecting shellfish, Waitangi, Bay of Islands

Historic Stone Store, Kerikeri

Waitangi is New Zealand’s most renowned historic site and is known as the birthplace of the country. In 1840 the Maori and the British Crown signed the Treaty of Waitangi here and it soon became the basis of New Zealand’s constitution. The Treaty House with its beautiful sweep of lawn running down to the bay became a national memorial in 1932. Inside are many photographs from the period and a copy of the original treaty, and across the lawn is the impressively detailed Maori meeting house, ‘Te Whare Runanga’, which is carved to represent all the major Maori tribes. It is well worth taking a guided tour for greater insight into this significant chapter in New Zealand’s history.

View over Russell and the Bay of Islands

Russell It requires a massive leap of imagination to consider this small, peaceful township, nestled on sparkling shores in the heart of the Bay of Islands as the ‘hell hole of the Pacific’, a moniker sprung from its lawless days as a whaling station. This colourful past is artfully explored at Pompallier House and the local museum. The village now maintains a genteel colonial charm, its quiet streets peppered with boutiques and galleries displaying local arts and crafts. Set amongst lush subtropical flora and with a selection of excellent restaurants on the tranquil waterfront, it is a perfect secluded getaway.

Hole in the Rock, Bay of Islands

Discover the Bay Cruise

Arcadia Lodge, Russell Arcadia lodge is an Audley favourite and overlooks one of the prettiest bays in Northland.

The lodge is full of character, is great value and with just five rooms allows hosts David and Brad to provide attentive service during your stay.

There are two comfortable living spaces which are exclusively for guests’ use where you can relax and unwind after a day exploring the local area. The expansive deck overlooks the tranquil bay, and is the ideal place to enjoy breakfast in the morning or a glass of wine late in the day.

The fruit-filled garden provides ingredients for homemade jams and the small herb garden is popular with returning guests. Many excursions out into the Bay of Islands depart from Russell, and Paihia is only a short ferry ride away allowing further exploration of this stunning region.

Kerikeri

This is one of the most comprehensive ecotours of the historic and picturesque Bay of Islands.

You will visit the ‘Hole in the Rock’, see an abundance of marine mammals and other wildlife and learn of the rich history and culture whilst cruising among the bay’s 144 islands. Your local guides are extremely experienced and will share their knowledge about the Bay of Islands and its marine inhabitants. The cruise incorporates a stop at Urupukapuka Island, landing at Oteheu Bay where you can climb the hill for beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding islands.

Arcadia Lodge, Russell

Kerikeri was once home to the fearsome Maori chief Hongi Hika, but today is better known for citrus orchards, historic buildings and arts and crafts. New Zealand’s oldest stone and timber buildings, the Stone Store and the Kerikeri Mission House, are set virtually side-by-side in the heart of town, still looking just as good as they did when built in the 1840s. Despite being just a small township, Kerikeri has a lively cafe scene, plenty of wineries and several gourmet food producers.

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Cape Reinga Lighthouse, Northland Peninsula

Northland Peninsula Lying to the north of the Bay of Islands, the Northland Peninsula extends into the Pacific Ocean revealing pretty bays and rugged coastal scenery. Beautiful, secluded beaches line the coast and make the perfect place to spend a day or two swimming, snorkelling, fishing or relaxing.

The Cavalli Islands, located three kilometres northeast of Matauri Bay are stunningly beautiful and can easily be visited by boat. The islands are the final resting place of the sunken Greenpeace vessel, Rainbow Warrior, which is now one of the top dive sites in New Zealand.

Ninety Mile Beach & Cape Reinga Known to the Maori as the ‘tail of the fish’, New Zealand narrows at its extreme northern tip to a thin stretch of land only a few kilometres wide, flanked by two pristine coastlines dotted with untouched beaches. Ninety Mile Beach is a truly impressive expanse of seemingly endless sand washed by the crashing surf of the Tasman Sea, which converges with the mighty Pacific Ocean at Cape Reinga. On the tip of the Cape stands an ancient pohutukawa tree, believed by the Maori to be the place from which the spirits of their deceased leap back into the ocean.

Huntaway Lodge, Matauri Bay With five guest rooms and three gorgeous beaches, this boutique property offers luxurious accommodation for a maximum of ten guests.

The lodge is furnished in contemporary style with artefacts from the surrounding Pacific cultures lending personality and character to each room. Hospitality is first class, with fine wines and refined home-cooking, as well as mesmerising sea views in every direction. You could spend a few days here sea kayaking, beach fishing and bathing in the sheltered ocean waters.

Cape Reinga Fly & Drive A wonderful way to appreciate the spectacular scenery of the Northland region is to view it from the air. This unforgettable experience is a five hour guided tour of Cape Reinga departing from Auckland, Paihia or Kerikeri. The day starts with a breathtaking flight over Ninety Mile Beach and the northwest coast of the North Island in a light aircraft. This is the perfect – indeed, the only – way to put this stunning scenery into perspective. You will land at a remote airstrip and continue exploring the very tip of New Zealand by road with the final hour spent flying back down the equally beautiful, but very different, east coast via the Bay of Islands.

Ninety Mile Beach, Northland Peninsula

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Huntaway Lodge, Matauri Bay

Farmers’ market, Matakana

Vineyard near Warkworth, Matakana

Waipoua Forest, Kauri Coast

Kauri Coast

Matakana

Lying on the northwest shore, the Kauri Coast is a land of ancient kauri forests, gum-digging and logging. The Waipoua Forest is the most significant remnant of the once extensive Northland forests and is home to the oldest remaining kauri trees, one over 2,000 years old and many with trunks several metres in diameter.

Of great cultural importance to the Maori, these forests are well worth exploring with a guide, while a trip to the highly interactive museum at Matakohe brings the region’s fascinating history to life. At the northern end of the coast lies the serenely beautiful Hokianga Harbour, its turquoise waters flanked by pristine white sand dunes.

An hour north of Auckland, near the bohemian village of Puhoi and the colonial town of Warkworth, the Matakana area is fast becoming known for its food, wine and thriving arts scene.

There is a selection of small family-run wineries here as well as sandy arcs of coastline washed by rolling Pacific surf. Matakana provides a perfect break on the drive between the Bay of Islands and the Coromandel Peninsula.

Waipoua Lodge, Kauri Coast Set on a ridge overlooking the impressive Waipoua Forest, Waipoua Lodge is over 100 years old and is steeped in history.

Accommodation is in four self-contained cottages which have been converted from a woolshed, a calf pen and the property’s original stables and tack rooms. All the cottages open onto balconies overlooking the beautifully landscaped gardens and the native bush beyond. The bar and dining room feature a pianola that provides musical accompaniment to the excellent food. A network of bush walks lace the area and guided night walks offer the chance to spot the elusive kiwi.

Waipoua Lodge, Kauri Coast

Footprints Waipoua Locally owned and operated, these guided walking tours provide a fascinating opportunity to learn about the oldest and largest kauri trees in the world, including ‘Te Matua Ngahere’, the Father of the Forest, and ‘Tane Mahuta’, the Lord of the Forest. Maori guides bring their ancestral homeland of Waipoua Forest to life through their stories and songs. Several tours are available during the day, but our favourite is the ‘Twilight Encounter’. Rich with the sounds of evening, the forest feels ethereal as the silhouettes of the trees change with the light.

Takatu Lodge & Vineyard, Matakana More than just a place to stay, a visit to Takatu Lodge is an experience, allowing you the opportunity to sample life on a working vineyard while enjoying the highest standard of comfort and the best cuisine. The lodge is contemporary in style, and uses natural wood, marble and stone to complement its surroundings. Whole walls of glass capture the stunning views and local artists’ works adorn the main lodge. Your hosts are well travelled and enjoy good food and wine, and guests are encouraged to indulge in a little wine tasting. The four suites have fantastic views either towards the ocean or over the vineyard, and are designed for privacy, elegance and comfort.

Takatu Lodge & Vineyard, Matakana

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Te Pare Point, near Hahei, Coromandel Peninsula

Coromandel Peninsula Jutting north into the Pacific Ocean, the Coromandel Peninsula features two beautiful but contrasting coastlines, encompassing pretty seaside towns and hidden bays that feel serenely remote despite their proximity to Auckland.

Along the Firth of Thames the coast follows a rocky shoreline and is quieter than the popular, sweeping beaches of the eastern coast. Inland, rugged volcanic hills are cloaked in thick, native rainforest while gold-rush history is evident in once-grand towns such as Waihi and Thames.

The Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve is a highlight, encompassing a wonderful stretch of Coromandel coastline that is dotted with offshore islands and rock stacks. Leading to the reserve is Hahei Beach, a glorious stretch of golden sand enjoying a panoramic vista of the islets. Cathedral Cove, another highlight, is a 30 minute scenic walk from the nearest car park, but well worth the hike as you are rewarded

Hahei Horizon B&B, Coromandel Peninsula

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Colleith Lodge, Coromandel Peninsula

Colleith Lodge, Coromandel Peninsula

with a fine beach dominated by a gigantic arched cavern accessible on foot except for at very high tide, and the venue for thrilling ‘Hole in the Rock’ boat trips. At Hot Water Beach, thermal waters stew just below the sand; within two hours either side of low tide you can dig a hole in the sand and sit in your own natural spa pool.

Set in native bush, and purpose built from kiln-fired Hinuera stone, Colleith Lodge offers relaxation, privacy and comfort in a beautiful setting. The lodge is also just a short drive from Cathedral Cove, Hahei and Hot Water Beach.

Each of the three guest rooms opens onto a private patio area with sweeping views over the Tairua Estuary, Slipper Island and the Pacific Ocean and has direct access to the lap pool and Jacuzzi. Guests can enjoy breakfast in the large dining area or on the terrace, and in the evening drinks and canapĂŠs are served by your hosts.

Hahei Horizon B&B, Coromandel Peninsula This small B&B offers great value and is tucked amongst native trees on the hill overlooking the beautiful beach at Hahei. The hosts have designed the property to maximise the fabulous views from the guest rooms and lounge. The house itself has just two beautifully decorated guest rooms and there is also a self-contained studio in the garden ideal for a family with children. With the beach right on your doorstep you can enjoy kayaking, swimming and boating, or simply sit back and enjoy the sea air.

Cathedral Cove near Whitianga, Coromandel Peninsula

Historic gold mine in Thames

Abandoned mine building in Waihi

Strolling on Hahei Beach, Coromandel Peninsula

Waihi Beach

Waihi & Waihi Beach

970 Lonely Bay Lodge, Coromandel Peninsula

Located at the southern end of the Coromandel, and serving as a gateway to both the peninsula and the Bay of Plenty, the townships of Waihi and Waihi Beach combine gold-rush heritage with modern-day beachfront lifestyle. Waihi town is the home of the richest gold mine in New Zealand and even has a vintage railway line offering visitors a glimpse of the early gold-rush days. Waihi Beach is a few minutes’ drive away and has its own laid-back vibe and superb stretch of white sand.

Offering luxury boutique accommodation, 970 Lonely Bay Lodge is a popular choice. Set amidst stunning gardens, the property offers three one-bedroom suites and a premier twobedroom suite, all with a spacious terrace, and spectacular bush or water views. There is a solarium with opening roof, perfect for taking in the views and relaxing in the sunshine, and a cosy library with a fireplace, ideal for chilly evenings.

With the Purangi Estuary and Cooks Beach close by, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the area, with a range of water sports, boating, fishing and scenic walks available, and kayaking tours to Cathedral Cove.

Waihi Beach Lodge, Coromandel Peninsula This welcoming B&B offers excellent value and is situated just a short stroll from Waihi Beach. A beach theme runs through the four comfortable and stylish guest rooms, most of which have sea views. You can either relax in the landscaped gardens or arrange an adventure on the water or a visit to the gold mines.

Waihi Beach Lodge, Coromandel Peninsula

Manawa Ridge, Coromandel Peninsula

Manawa Ridge, Coromandel Peninsula Manawa Ridge is the brainchild of artists Willem and Carla van de Veen. Adapting their skills to build an incredible lodge constructed from straw bales, mud bricks and carved beams, this characterful place provides the ultimate in luxury and comfort. The three rooms feature handcarved beds, open fires and spa baths and are set in private gardens, while the ridge on which the property is perched affords incredible 360 degree views over stunning countryside to the Pacific Ocean beyond.

970 Lonely Bay Lodge, Coromandel Peninsula

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Mount Maunganui and Ocean Beach, Bay of Plenty

Bay of Plenty The Bay of Plenty is an area of thriving agriculture and endless coastline, popular with New Zealanders, many of whom escape from the towns to their baches (holiday homes) along the stretch of coast between the principal town of Tauranga and the popular Papamoa Beach.

Across Tauranga Harbour the skyline is dominated by the volcanic cone of Mauao, where a fairly challenging climb is rewarded with unobstructed views along the coast. Mount Maunganui, the town at its base, is a centre for surf and adventure year-round. To the east is Whakatane and its smaller seaside neighbour of Ohope, offering another sweeping stretch of empty, golden sand. Off the coast lies the small but smouldering Whakaari, New Zealand’s most active volcano, whose steamy shroud is clearly visible all along the bay.

Surfer, Papamoa Beach

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Whakaari, Bay of Plenty

Whakaari (White Island)

Lake McLaren kayaking

Volcanic White Island is a designated private scenic reserve and can only be visited with recognised operators with whom we are able to arrange day tours. Although mined for sulphur extensively in the early 1900s, it was soon acknowledged that this unique environment and its endemic species should be protected. Today, trips take visitors over by helicopter or boat, and incorporate both a visit to the old sulphur mining factory and an exhilarating walk around the crater’s edge, peering right into its hissing, steaming heart.

Beautiful Lake McLaren offers a unique opportunity to kayak by the light of glow-worms.

Accompanied by an experienced guide you can enjoy light refreshments at the side of the lake as dusk falls, before taking to the water in your double kayaks, paddling gently to the far end of the lake. In the peace and stillness you will be able to see the glow-worms as they light up the native bush along the lake’s shores and, if water levels allow, you will access a narrow inlet full of glow-worms whose bright gleam reflects on the water mirroring the stars above.

James Cook Plaza, Poverty Bay, Gisborne

Inner harbour, Gisborne

Gisborne & surrounds Stretching out into the Pacific Ocean, the little-visited and unspoilt eastern coast harbours some of New Zealand’s most dramatic scenery.

Here the Pacific Coast Highway hugs the shore all the way from Opotiki to Te Araroa, and passes through tunnels of ancient pohutukawa forest, tiny settlements rich in Maori culture, and spectacular, deserted bays. Gisborne, the country’s most easterly city, is renowned for its long hours of sunshine and fertile plains which produce many subtropical fruits and some of the country’s best Chardonnays. The inland driving route back to Opotiki climbs steadily up to the village of Matawai, then plunges into the magnificent Waioeka River Gorge, which runs back down to the Pacific Ocean.

Raukokore Church, East Cape

Knapdale Eco Lodge, Gisborne Providing the perfect combination of great accommodation and a warm welcome, Knapdale Eco Lodge offers a real working farm experience.

Completed in 2004, the main lodge is just part of the owners’ dream to create an outstanding, safe and ecologically sustainable tourism venture.

Winners of the 2006 North Island Farm Forester of the Year Award, the owners continue to invest huge efforts into planting indigenous trees that are attractive to native birds. You are

encouraged to wander around the grounds to see the chickens, sheep, cattle and deer, and assist with feeding or planting. There are just two guest rooms in the lodge so you can enjoy a wonderfully peaceful stay, and with a large lounge, dining and deck area the rest of the lodge provides ample space for relaxation. The grounds also house a significant Maori pa site (a traditionally fortified village), giving guests the opportunity to learn more about the history and culture of the surrounding area.

Heritage & history Gisborne, set on Poverty Bay, is among the first cities in the world to greet the rising sun each day, and this spectacular coastal region is rich in both Maori and European settler history, making it a fascinating place to visit.

In 1769 Captain Cook’s ship Endeavour made landfall here and the Young Nick’s Head promontory was named for the ship’s cabin boy, Nicholas Young, who reputedly was the first to see land. Captain Cook named the region Poverty Bay because ‘it did not afford a single article we wanted, except a little firewood’. Many Maori tribal battles also took place in the area in the past, the most notable of which was the uprising of the

Depiction of Captain Cook’s arrival in New Zealand

Maori prophet Te Kooti who led a rebellion against European settlers in the 1860s.

Today the area is prosperous sheep and cattle country, and lush with orchards and vineyards.

Knapdale Eco Lodge, Gisborne

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Champagne Pool, Rotorua

Rotorua Known for its geothermal activity and strong Maori culture, Rotorua is a popular destination littered with steamy mineral lakes, bursting geysers and bubbling mud pools. People have been bathing in the hot springs for centuries and a soak in one of the many spa complexes is highly recommended. The original Rotorua Bath House, an elaborate Tudor-style building, now houses a museum that reveals the mythology, history and geology of the area. The city also has a large Maori population, whose cultural activities are among the most interesting and accessible in the country. The deep-rooted concept of manaakitanga, the responsibility of a host to give the best of themselves, their time and their history, is hugely evident here.

Executive On Fenton, Rotorua This clean and comfortable motel is perfect for those wanting great value accommodation in the town centre. Located on popular Fenton Street, an easy ten minute stroll to central Rotorua, Executive On Fenton offers 20 comfortable units all with spa baths, laundry and basic kitchen facilities. There is also a café located conveniently across the road and a babysitting service, making this a great choice for families with younger children.

Executive On Fenton, near Rotorua

Treetops Lodge, near Rotorua Only half an hour from Rotorua but located in ten square kilometres of native bush, Treetops Lodge offers the ultimate in privacy. The lodge is designed in an elegant architectural style featuring timber and stone. There’s a new spa, a library with historic Maori artworks adorning the walls, blazing fires, several courtyards and a conservatory offering scenic views. Ten separate villas and cottages are secluded in the bush, with a further five suites in the main lodge. Many activities are available including hiking, mountain biking, horse riding, 4x4 trips and trout fishing.

Treetops Lodge, near Rotorua

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Koura Lodge, near Rotorua

Koura Lodge, near Rotorua Lying on the edge of Lake Rotorua, Koura Lodge enjoys stunning views from its ten contemporary and well-appointed rooms. Breakfast is served in the dining room with views of the lake. Guests can relax in a hot tub at the end of a busy day and enjoy the charming setting. Seaplanes or boats can collect you from the lodge jetty for excursions, otherwise it is just a few minutes’ drive to central Rotorua.

New Zealand film industry The volcanic landscape of the North Island and much of the scenery around Rotorua has provided a suitable backdrop to a number of films but it is perhaps best known for appearing in the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies. A short distance from Rotorua is the Hobbiton movie set used as ‘The Shire’ in the Peter Jackson films. There are regular tours of the site and it provides a nice day out for families, fans of the books and film buffs alike.

Traditional woodcarving at Te Puia, near Rotorua

Maori cultural experiences Thermal plateau culture The thermal plateau, with its notably rich cultural ties, is a superb place for discovering some of the fascinating Maori legends and traditions. Te Puia, a complex on the outskirts of Rotorua, comprises the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute and Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, as well as staging many excellent cultural performances. At the Arts and Crafts Institute visitors can watch students learning ancient skills which are in danger of being forgotten and at Whakarewarewa you will experience the natural wonder of this exciting, erupting landscape of boiling mud pools and spectacular geysers and their significance in Maori tribal history.

Mitai Maori Village Situated on the edge of Rotorua, the family-run Mitai Maori Village offers excellent cultural displays and the opportunity to experience a hangi. A visit consists of a powhiri (a formal welcome), traditional songs and dances, and a weaponry display by talented local performers with Maori history and legends relayed through their stories and songs. This entertaining and educational introduction is followed by an impressive, traditionally-cooked hangi – chicken, lamb, kumara and potato cooked in an underground oven – accompanied by fresh salads and traditional breads.

Cultural performance at Mitai Maori Village, Rotorua

Mount Tarawera Standing sentinel over the crater lakes east of Rotorua, Mount Tarawera is the highest peak in the area and is sacred to the local Maori. A massive eruption in 1886 destroyed the picturesque pink and white terraces of crystallising silica that had become an early visitor attraction but even today the region is simply astounding. Local guides provide insight into Maori legend and volcanology and add depth to any visit, while the nearby Whirinaki and Pureora forests offer an ancient and spiritual backdrop to the Maori love of storytelling, experiential learning and environmental sensitivity.

Further Maori experiences Further afield, a variety of contrasting experiences are available integrating Maori culture with different facets of modern Kiwi lifestyle. The Auckland Maori Tour utilises city, forest and beach locations to pass on ancestral knowledge in an innovative and memorable day out. In contrast, out on the remote East Cape you can relive the legend of the Maori ancestor Paikea, a story which was brought to international fame in the film Whale Rider. In the Hawke’s Bay region, local guide Sophie Kebbell has built up a network of Maori contacts who open their doors to her and her guests, sharing their stories and their crafts, which she combines with her insight into the local wineries, gourmet foods and Art Deco heritage of the area to create a fascinating tour.

Hongi, a Maori greeting, Te Puia near Rotorua

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Kayaker on Lake Taupo

Lake Taupo The largest lake in New Zealand, Lake Taupo lies at the heart of the North Island, and was formed by one of most violent volcanic explosions of all time. Set against a backdrop of the impressive peaks of Tongariro National Park, its clear, tranquil waters are a delight to explore. Lake Taupo is the source of New Zealand’s longest river, the Waikato, famed for the thundering Huka Falls. Unsurprisingly the area is popular for water sports and white water rafting, jet boat rides and wakeboarding. However, it is fishing that has really put Taupo on the map, and it is now known as the trout fishing capital of the Southern Hemisphere. The area is a haven of rocky coves, white pumice beaches and sheltered inlets. There are many tranquil corners to discover and a series of Maori rock carvings that can only be reached by boat. Along with all this are active thermal areas, unspoilt forests and excellent tramping trails making it an excellent location to experience New Zealand’s great outdoors.

Acacia Cliffs Lodge, Taupo

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Huka Lodge, Taupo

Huka Lodge, Taupo

Inspired by New Zealand’s early pioneers this historic lodge has received countless international awards. Each of the 19 spacious, tasteful suites and two cottages is set amongst mature native trees, a short distance upstream from Taupo’s Huka Falls. Your time here can be spent simply enjoying this truly magnificent property, or you can choose to experience a variety of activities including world-class trout fishing, golf, skiing, white water rafting and horse riding. Huka Lodge is consistently ranked as one of the world’s most luxurious retreats, but the luxury is understated and the relaxing atmosphere harks back to a time when life seemed much simpler.

Acacia Cliffs Lodge, Taupo Acacia Cliffs Lodge offers boutique accommodation in a quiet suburb overlooking Lake Taupo. This stylish and contemporary lodge accommodates up to eight guests in four luxury guest rooms. Three of the rooms have large private deck areas with breathtaking lake views and the other has a private garden courtyard.

The large spacious guest areas have uninterrupted panoramic views of Lake Taupo, Mount Tauhara and the Kaimanawa Ranges.

Linda and Rick are excellent well-travelled hosts who have over 20 years’ experience in the hospitality industry. Rick is an excellent cook and encourages guests to sit and talk to him with a glass of wine whilst he prepares dinner.

Maori rock carving, Lake Taupo

Emerald Lakes, Tongariro National Park

Views over Lake Rotoaira, Tongariro National Park

Mount Ngauruhoe, Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park At the southern end of Lake Taupo, the three active volcanic mountains of Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe are protected as a national park.

In the winter the area is a playground for skiers and in summer a wilderness for walking. Dotted with emerald lakes and criss-crossed with lava flows, this is some of New Zealand’s most varied and remarkable terrain. The best way to explore is by walking, but other activities including scenic flights, kayaking, rafting and mountain biking are on offer in the small local townships.

Ruapehu Country Lodge, Tongariro National Park

Ruapehu Country Lodge, Tongariro National Park Ideally situated just five minutes from Ohakune Township and 15 minutes from the gateway into the beautiful Tongariro National Park, Ruapehu Country Lodge offers the perfect escape for those who love the great outdoors. Whether you wish to get the adrenalin pumping or simply relax in the tranquil surroundings, Ruapehu

Lodge offers the best of both worlds. Nearby activities include kayaking, fishing, trekking, mountain biking and golfing. However, with just four spacious guest rooms boasting fantastic views across the golf course or mountain ranges, it is also ideally set up for a private, peaceful or romantic getaway. The well-appointed rooms each feature a delightful terrace and are furnished in the style of a classic French country house.

The Tongariro Crossing Often billed as the finest one-day walk in New Zealand, the Tongariro Crossing is a superb introduction to the region’s scenic beauty. The track itself takes seven to eight hours to complete, with shuttles available to and from the start and end points. The track crosses alpine scrubland and moonscape craters, skirts emerald lakes and passes hot springs before descending through dense podocarp forest to the site of the old Ketetahi Hut. Another option is to climb the summits of Mount Ngauruhoe and Mount Tongariro for panoramic views over the thermal plateau.

Fly fishing, Tongariro River

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Napier, Hawke’s Bay

Napier Devastated by a powerful earthquake in 1931, Napier was rebuilt in the Art Deco style popular at the time. Nowhere else in the world can you see such a variety of buildings from this period packed into one place. The added influence of Maori art and culture is reflected in many of the motifs used to decorate the buildings, though you will also spot Egyptian and Mayan symbols, and some buildings were designed in the Californian-inspired Spanish Mission style. All this is complemented by Marine Parade, a glorious waterfront esplanade fringed with Norfolk pines.

Napier’s wonderfully unique character combined with the region’s mild climate and laid-back, affable nature, makes it a very rewarding place to visit.

Scenic Hotel Te Pania, Napier Overlooking the waterfront, Scenic Hotel Te Pania enjoys an excellent location on Napier’s Marine Parade. Each of the 109 guest rooms has an ocean view with full-height sliding windows.

The rooms are comfortable, light and contemporary in style. The hotel has its own brasserie and bar and provides complimentary access to the Ocean Spa gym directly across the road. From the hotel it is an easy stroll into the Art Deco town centre, while the vineyards and wildlife of Hawke’s Bay are a short drive away.

Scenic Hotel Te Pania, Napier

Hastings In nearby Hastings, the reconstruction process after the earthquake took a slightly different path and Spanish Mission style architecture dominates the town with stucco walls, arched windows and terracotta roof tiling found on every corner.

You’ll also discover some Art Deco buildings here and, in the surrounding area, some of New Zealand’s oldest and most celebrated wineries.

Vineyard, near Hastings

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Art Deco in Napier When much of Napier’s centre was destroyed by an earthquake in 1931, Art Deco was at the height of its popularity.

With its past destroyed, the town chose to look to the future and adopted this fashionable, modern style. The simplicity of the designs also offered a cheap, economical way of improving the aesthetics of the buildings during the depression, and provided a safer alternative to the more elaborate ornamentation which had come down with the original buildings. Art Deco itself represents the optimism of the twenties and the idealism and escapism of the thirties. Typical motifs include geometric shapes, sunbursts, fountains, and symbols of Art Deco Weekend, Napier

speed and power. Napier’s Art Deco is unique as it also incorporates elements of Maori art and symbolism. Although much of the architecture can be appreciated by simply strolling along the main streets, the daily walking tours operated by the Art Deco Trust are highly recommended as they reveal corners of the town which would otherwise be missed, and allow access into buildings where the interior is as interesting as the façade.

Napier really comes to life during the Art Deco Weekend, held in mid-February, when many of the local townspeople dress in period costume, bring out their vintage cars and hold events throughout the town.

Accommodation fills up quickly though, so enthusiasts wishing to join in need to book well in advance.

Commemorative mosaic, Napier

McHardy Lodge, Napier Situated on the north side of the historic Bluff Hill in Napier, McHardy Lodge offers panoramic views of Hawke’s Bay. This faithfully restored 1890s villa has six luxuriously appointed guest rooms, each with great views; it is tucked away from the hubbub of the city centre but only minutes away from a wide range of restaurants on the waterfront. From claw-footed baths to antique furnishings every room has been carefully decorated in keeping with the age of the house.

Cobden Garden Homestay, Napier

Cobden Garden Homestay, Napier

Houses on Marine Parade, Napier

The Crown Hotel, near Napier

Perched above the town centre, the excellent value Cobden Garden Homestay is situated in the heart of a delightful residential suburb of colonial-era houses. Three guest rooms, located on the ground and first floor are traditionally furnished. A homemade breakfast of local produce is served in the breakfast room or on the veranda and your hosts welcome you to join them in the evening for some wine tasting before you venture out to sample the city’s fine restaurants.

Overlooking the waterfront in the village of Ahuriri, near Napier, the Crown Hotel has 43 stylish guest rooms and suites. Choose from the elegant heritage suites, located in the original 1932 Crown Hotel building, modern contemporary rooms overlooking the ocean or one of the two or three bedroom luxury apartments. The architectural elements of these two parts of the hotel combine to create a unique blend of history and plenty of style.

McHardy Lodge, Napier

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Vineyards, Millar Road Winery, Hawke’s Bay

Hawthorne House, Hawke’s Bay

Hawke’s Bay The Hawke’s Bay region, where warm sunny summers and crisp winter frosts create an arena perfect for horticulture, is known as the ‘fruit bowl’ of New Zealand and is particularly renowned for its apples and kiwi fruit. Of greater interest to most visitors, however, are the many local wineries. On the fertile plains between Napier and Hastings lies a veritable treasure trove of vineyards, producing wines of international quality.

Stretching along the coast, the crescent-shaped bay and jagged promontory of Cape Kidnappers was so named by Captain Cook who promptly set sail after the local Maori attempted to carry off a young Tahitian boy from his ship Endeavour.

In Maori mythology Cape Kidnappers is known as the hook with which Maui (a demi-god in local legends) fished the North Island from the sea.

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Hawthorne House, Hawke’s Bay

Breckenridge Lodge, Hawke’s Bay

Hawthorne House is a gracious Edwardian villa nestled in a peaceful setting in the heart of the Hawke’s Bay’s wine region. Surrounded by mature gardens and sweeping lawns, the villa offers a charming retreat from which to explore the Art Deco attractions of Napier, the stunning coastline and the region’s wineries. Outside you can indulge in a game of pétanque or croquet, then dine on the open air terrace before retreating inside to relax in front of the large log fire. The four spacious and comfortable en suite bedrooms are well appointed and each boasts a private veranda.

Nestled in the picturesque Omarunui Valley, Breckenridge Lodge offers ever-changing views across the vineyards and surrounding orchards below. The setting is perfect and the lodge and gardens have been carefully designed to allow guests to soak up the views of the rural landscape stretching as far as the Kaweka Ranges.

With only five guest rooms the lodge offers an intimate experience and real personal touches.

Each room faces out over the endless vines and your host, a talented local chef, uses his extensive knowledge to enhance your appreciation of this beautiful area and its world-class wines.

Breckenridge Lodge, Hawke’s Bay

Gala apple orchard, Hawke’s Bay

Golfer on Cape Kidnappers Golf Course, Hawke’s Bay

Hawke’s Bay landscape

Cape Kidnappers. Hawke’s Bay

Cape Kidnappers Gannet Reserve

The Farm at Cape Kidnappers, Hawke’s Bay

The Farm at Cape Kidnappers, Hawke’s Bay Perched on a private 24 square kilometre farm and surrounded by rolling pasturelands, this property has 22 suites and a separate Owners’ Cottage. The Farm enjoys incredible views out across the mighty Hawke’s Bay. The lodge itself resembles the buildings of a working farm, but at the same time has been expertly crafted to provide the best in luxury and comfort. The lounges and library allow guests to hide away and relax, and excellent cuisine can be enjoyed in the large dining room or conservatory area.

Activities are plentiful at the lodge; there is a gym, a spa, a beautiful outdoor pool area and an impressive wine cellar with its own tasting rooms. There are endless trails for walking or mountain biking throughout the property, or you can take a tour of the farm by 4x4 or quad bike.

The lodge itself sits just above the renowned Cape Kidnappers championship golf course.

Cape Kidnappers is the largest and most spectacular mainland nesting place of gannets in the world. The 6,500 pairs here are Australasian gannets, one of three species of gannet which belong to the booby family. With distinctive black eye markings and a pale gold crown they are easily recognisable and can be seen by taking a tractor and trailer trip along the beach or a comfortable 4x4 drive along the magnificent cliff edges. The gannets are truly impressive birds with an average lifespan of between 25 and 40 years. Young chicks are given something of a baptism of fire however as at 16 weeks old their very first flight is across

A pair of Australasian gannets

Tractor tour, Cape Kidnappers Gannet Reserve

the Tasman Sea, a 2,800 kilometre trip. The young birds return two to three years later and spend most of their life around the New Zealand coast. From the clifftops the birds can be seen preening, surfing the wind currents and performing their unique ritual dance of recognition. Along the cliffs and sand dunes you may also be able to spot the white-fronted tern, variable oystercatcher and reef heron, while along the shore and rocks you might notice the distinctive fringed tubes built by sand mason worms.

www.audleytravel.com/newzealand • 01993 838 820 • North Island

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Wellington Harbour

Wellington city food tour

Cable car, Wellington

Wellington Gloriously set on a magnificent harbour, Wellington is both the nation’s capital and its centre for arts and culture. Made up of an appealing mix of modern architecture and quaint Victorian houses painted in bold colours and tiered in steep hilly suburbs, it makes a fascinating place to wander. Much of the action is centred around the waterfront, including the superb national museum, Te Papa Tongarewa. As the city streets give way to the surrounding hills, parks abound, and a cable car connects the city with the immaculate botanical gardens which also serve as an excellent vantage point. Away from the centre there are several popular swimming beaches and pretty waterfront suburbs. On the city outskirts you’ll find Zealandia, a unique wildlife eco-attraction. Combining an extensive predator-free sanctuary with a state-of-the-art indoor exhibition, it brings the story of New Zealand’s exceptional native species to life.

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There is no better way to discover the delights of Wellington than taking to the pavement with a local guide and tasting your way around the city known as New Zealand’s ‘culinary, cafe and coffee capital’. This gentle walking tour will take you to chocolatiers, boutique coffee roasters, delicatessens and bakeries. You can spend time behind the scenes at some excellent food venues whilst being introduced to local tastes, products and people. For food enthusiasts or those wishing to see the city from a local’s perspective this is without doubt one of the highlights on offer in New Zealand’s capital.

QT Museum Wellington Ideally located just across the road from the Te Papa Tongarewa Museum and the waterfront, the unique QT Museum Wellington offers 163 spacious rooms, suites and apartments with luxurious furnishings. Communal areas act as gallery spaces for striking artworks, many of which are for sale. The hotel is just minutes’ walk from the diverse shopping, dining, entertainment and nightlife that Wellington has to offer, but also has its own restaurant and bar, which takes advantage of the harbour views.

Rydges Wellington

Rydges Wellington Rydges Wellington is ideally located within a minute’s walk of the city’s main shopping street, Lambton Quay, and the waterfront on Customhouse Quay. All Wellington’s main attractions can easily be explored from here and the bustling restaurants and cafes of Courtenay Place are just a ten minute walk away. The 280 spacious rooms have kitchenettes and the hotel has excellent leisure facilities. There is also a vibrant restaurant, renowned as one of the city’s most popular.

QT Museum Wellington

Te Papa Tongarewa Museum

Vineyard lunch, Coney Winery near Martinborough

The Museum of New Zealand, Te Papa Tongarewa, is one of Wellington’s key attractions. Renowned for its innovative and highly educational exhibits which offer interactive fun for visitors, its success is based on its ability to remain fresh and exciting while representing all facets of the community. The Maori name literally translates as ‘container of treasures’, and the exhibits span five main areas including art and history, Pacific and Maori culture, and the natural environment.

Despite its humble origins as the Colonial Museum, which opened in a small wooden building in 1865, Te Papa has grown into New Zealand’s most comprehensive archive.

Te Papa Tongarewa Museum

Its modern position dominates Wellington’s harbour front and is both an engineering feat and symbolic masterpiece. General entry is free, or we can arrange for a private behind the scenes tour with one of Te Papa’s curators which allows you to have exclusive access to the museum’s collection of artefacts. With an ever-changing programme of events and exhibits no two visits to Te Papa are the same.

Cattle farm, Wairarapa

The Wairarapa Region To the east of Wellington in the southeast corner of the North Island, the Wairarapa Region is an attractive agricultural area known for its beef and dairy farming, olive groves and wonderful vineyards. There are forested valleys, an unspoilt coastline and numerous small towns full of character. Lake Wairarapa, the biggest wetland area in the lower North Island is home to both native and migratory birds. Located close to rolling fields the historic Martinborough wine village has plenty of cafes, restaurants and arts and crafts shops. After a lunch in the picturesque square you can visit local vineyards on an afternoon tasting tour. To the north is Greytown, a quaint colonial village with a pioneering history.

It was founded in 1854 by early settlers who travelled across country with scant possessions carried by four bullocks. The small shelters and cottages they built can still be seen today.

Aylstone Boutique Retreat, Martinborough

Peppers Parehua, Martinborough Set around a willow-fringed lake against a mountainous backdrop, Peppers has 28 luxury cottages, suites and villas with spacious rooms and designer furnishings. Private decks, stunning views and local artwork lend a secluded but personal touch, while the park-like grounds conceal a restaurant, tennis court and a swimming pool (open December to March) in the tranquil woodlands. Just a short walk from charming Martinborough, the resort offers stylish contemporary accommodation in the heart of the world-class Wairarapa wine region.

Aylstone Boutique Retreat, Martinborough Located on the edge of Martinborough village, the Aylstone Boutique Retreat is a secluded and elegant getaway surrounded by vines and mountains. The seven beautifully appointed rooms are designed in a French provincial style with lovely furniture. Each has a private deck or courtyard, perfect for taking in the wonderful views. The retreat is close to a couple of excellent restaurants and your hosts will be all too happy to make a reservation for you. The roads here are flat and easy to navigate, so we recommend picking up a bicycle in town and heading off to explore the nearby vineyards.

Peppers Parehua, Martinborough

The Kapiti Coast The golden beaches of the Kapiti Coast extend north of Wellington past the seaside towns of Paraparaumu and Waikanae. This area is a gourmand’s delight with local olive groves, cheese and ice cream producers, as well as a cooking school and chocolate factory. Though the mainland coastline is stunning, the region is most famous for Kapiti Island, one of the country’s most important nature reserves.

Created by giant earthquakes in the distant past, the island is just ten kilometres long and two wide. As a bird sanctuary it has played a significant part in protecting many species and access to the island is limited to just 50 visitors per day, ensuring protection of this important marine environment.

www.audleytravel.com/newzealand • 01993 838 820 • North Island

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Kerikeri

Coromandel Peninsula Auckland

Whakaari Rotorua

Tongariro National Park Napier

Wellington

Martinborough

North Island Explorer This trip is ideal for those who want to focus their time on the North Island without the need to cover huge distances. Taking in some of the lesser-explored areas such as the Bay of Plenty, it also leads you away from the well-trodden trail whilst ensuring you don’t miss the key highlights.

From beaches to volcanoes, wineries to vibrant cities, there is a great deal to see and do.

Champagne Pool, Rotorua

Tailoring your trip The itineraries shown are designed to give you a flavour of what is possible, and are routes that work particularly well. We can use these as a basis to plan your trip or can design a completely different itinerary to suit your tastes and interests. Please call one of our New Zealand specialists to start planning your itinerary.

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before glimpsing the welcoming inlets of the beautiful Marlborough Sounds. Unspoilt and green, with countless bays, coves and waterways, the sounds shelter small settlements poised between forests and some of the best beaches in New Zealand. Marine parks protect the magnificent aquatic wildlife including seals, penguins and playful dolphins that can often be seen swimming in the bow waves.

When to go

Day 1

Arrive in Kerikeri in the Bay of Islands.

Day 2

Enjoy a day relaxing in the Bay of Islands. You may wish to visit the Waitangi Treaty House.

Day 3

Drive the scenic coastal route to Auckland.

Days 4-5 Head to the Bay of Plenty and take a trip out to volcanic Whakaari (White Island).

Day 6

Getting around New Zealand’s North Island is ideally suited to a self-drive journey with safe, generally empty roads leading you through an ever-changing landscape. A range of rental vehicles is available from compact cars to 4x4s or people carriers.

Motorhomes are also an option if you like the idea of travelling a little more independently. An excellent network of inexpensive domestic flights allows you to cut out some of the longer drives if you prefer, and rail journeys between Auckland and Wellington can be incorporated, letting you sit back and enjoy the views. With rental vehicle depots at all key points along your route, it’s easy to combine methods of transport and we are able to tailor a trip which fits together seamlessly.

Interislander Ferry One of the most scenic sea journeys in the world is that which crosses the Cook Strait, connecting the North and South Islands. The Interislander Ferry takes about three hours to travel between the capital city, Wellington, and the town of Picton at the northern tip of the South Island.

Leaving Wellington Harbour you enter the open water, which can occasionally get a little choppy, 32

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Q Snow or ski season.

New Zealand attracts a huge number of visitors during the peak summer months of November to March when the weather is at its warmest.

Trips at this time of the year need to be planned well in advance (at least six months).

Alternatively, April-May, when the leaves start to turn and the crowds abate, is a delightful time to visit, as is the spring (September-October) when there is still a dusting of snow on the peaks. New Zealand can also be visited during the winter months, but you need to be prepared for snow.

Time difference: GMT+12 hours

Prices We offer trips to cater for a wide range of budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline prices for your trip to New Zealand on our website, alternatively please call our specialists to discuss your plans.

Drive inland to the thermal plateau region and explore the thermal reserves or the local hot springs near Rotorua.

Days 7-8 Travel south to the Hawke’s Bay wine region and the Art Deco town of Napier.

Day 9

Take a leisurely drive down to Martinborough and spend the afternoon amongst the vineyards.

Day 10

Arrive in Wellington and take in the delights of the capital, including the Te Papa Tongarewa Museum.

Days 11-12 Travel north to the Tongariro National Park for some walking in the mountains.

Day 13

Put your feet up and enjoy a seaside stay at the Coromandel Peninsula.

Day 14

Head to Auckland for your onward flight.

Suggested itineraries Kerikeri Auckland

Rotorua

Wellington Franz Josef Glacier Fox Glacier Te Anau Fiordland National Park

Christchurch TranzAlpine Train Wanaka

Queenstown

Classic New Zealand This self-drive trip is ideal for a first time visit to New Zealand, allowing time to take in the many highlights of both the North and South Islands.

Days 1-2

Arrive in Auckland and enjoy a couple of days in this vibrant waterfront city.

Rotorua

Marlborough Sounds

TranzAlpine Train Blenheim Punakaiki

Picton

Franz Josef Glacier Fox Glacier

Christchurch

Queenstown Dunedin Catlins Coast

New Zealand Coastal Journey New Zealand’s varied and scenic coastlines are the focus of this self-drive itinerary, which offers plenty of time to explore the country’s most captivating landscapes and wildlife.

Wellington

Kaikoura

Kaikoura Akaroa

Coromandel Peninsula

Auckland

Napier

Napier

Kaikoura

Kerikeri

Warkworth Coromandel Auckland Peninsula Bay of Plenty

Coromandel Peninsula

Queenstown Christchurch Milford Sound Te Anau Dunedin Stewart Island

Invercargill

New Zealand’s Wildlife This well-paced itinerary is perfect for those seeking to experience New Zealand’s wonderful wildlife. Beginning in the north where you can swim with dolphins, you will drive through both islands and travel as far south as Stewart Island, taking in the best of the country’s wildlife.

Day 1

Days 3-4 Collect your hire car and enjoy the scenic drive to the Coromandel Peninsula. Explore the area with a local guide.

Arrive in Kerikeri in the Bay of Islands.

Day 1

Day 2

Drive down the coast to Warkworth to explore the giant kauri tree forests.

Arrive in Kerikeri in the Bay of Islands. Collect your hire car.

Day 2

Join a dolphin cruise to observe or swim with the dolphins.

Days 5-6 Make your way inland to the exciting thermal plateau near Rotorua.

Day 3

Drive to the Coromandel Peninsula.

The afternoon is free to explore.

Day 3

Enjoy the scenic coastal drive to Auckland.

Days 7-8 Journey south to Art Deco Napier and the Hawke’s Bay wineries.

Day 4

Spend the day discovering the delightful Coromandel Peninsula.

Day 4

Take a day trip to the fantastic Tiritiri Matangi Island sanctuary for birdlife.

Day 5

Journey to the Bay of Plenty.

Day 6

Drive to Napier and Hawke’s Bay, stopping to explore the town of Gisborne en route.

Days 5-6 Drive to the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula to enjoy some stunning coastal scenery.

Days 9-10 Continue south to Wellington and drop off your hire car. Take some time to explore the city.

Day 11

Take the scenic ferry journey across the Cook Strait to Picton.

Collect your car and drive along the coast to Kaikoura.

Day 12

Take to the water and observe whales and dolphins.

Day 13

Head to Christchurch and spend time exploring the garden city.

Day 14

Board the TranzAlpine Train in the morning for the scenic journey to the west coast.

Day 15

Explore Franz Josef and Fox glaciers and visit Lake Matheson.

Day 16

Drive through some amazing scenery and over the Haast Pass.

Day 17

Enjoy the activities available in the picturesque lakeside town of Wanaka.

Day 18

Drive south to Te Anau; you may like to visit the glow-worm caves in the evening.

Day 19

Take a trip to magnificent Doubtful Sound for a day cruise deep in Fiordland National Park.

Days 20-21 Journey to Queenstown and enjoy the multitude of activities on offer.

Day 22

Head to the airport for your onward flight.

Day 7

Discover the Art Deco buildings of Napier.

Day 8

Fly from Napier to Blenheim on the South Island. Drive down the coast to Kaikoura.

Day 9

Take a thrilling whale watching trip.

Days 10-11 Drive south to Akaroa and the Banks Peninsula.

Days 12-13 Continue your journey down the east coast to Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula.

Day 14

Drive to the Catlins Coast.

Days 15-16 Journey through more breathtaking scenery to Queenstown, where you will have a day to explore.

Days 17-18 Drive along the west coast to discover Fox and Franz Josef glaciers.

Day 19

Drive to Punakaiki to see the unusual pancake rocks.

Day 20

Board the TranzAlpine Train to Christchurch. Spend the afternoon exploring New Zealand’s second city.

Day 21

Day 7

Drive inland to Rotorua and go kiwi-spotting at Rainbow Springs.

Days 8-9 Journey south to Wellington and spend a day at Zealandia, a superb nature reserve just outside the city.

Days 10-11 Journey across the Cook Strait and take some time to explore the Marlborough Sounds area.

Day 12

Fly south to Christchurch.

Day 13

Travel to Kaikoura for the day and join a whale watching trip.

Day 14

Continue south to Dunedin.

Day 15

Join a wildlife cruise to view the rare yellow-eyed penguins.

Days 16-17 Make your way to Invercargill and take a short flight to Stewart Island to explore this pristine environment.

Day 18

Return to Invercargill by light aircraft then make your way to Te Anau.

Day 19

Take a scenic journey to the iconic Milford Sound.

Day 20

Make your way to Queenstown.

Day 21

Head to the airport for your onward flight.

Head to the airport for your onward flight.

www.audleytravel.com/newzealand • 01993 838 820 • North Island

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Otago Central Rail Trail, South Island

Cycling in New Zealand Cycling in New Zealand is incredibly rewarding and there is perhaps no better way to immerse yourself in the landscapes and magnificent scenery than from the saddle of a bicycle.

Meandering along country roads where traffic is very light, you can absorb far more of your surroundings, capture that quintessential photograph, chat with passers-by and listen to rushing rivers murmur and gurgle.

With such varied terrain and stunning vistas a cycle ride in New Zealand is a memorable experience. Pedal through lush native forest dense with leafy ferns and moss and dappled with light, the only sound the call of exotic birds and the hum of your bike. Energised with fresh mountain air, follow an undulating trail through valleys and across ridges revealing breathtaking views of stunning snow-capped peaks mirrored in deep, still lakes.

Multi-day cycling tours Bike hire is available all across New Zealand and you can rent a bike by the hour, day or week.

For those interested in more than a short day trip, small guided group tours may be the perfect option. On guided cycling tours everything is taken care of from your bike and safety gear to your accommodation and your luggage. Tours can be included as just a part of your itinerary or make up the bulk of your trip.

Participants will need a reasonable degree of fitness but tours are available that cater for both novices and enthusiasts.

Tunnel on the Hauraki Rail Trail

The New Zealand Cycle Trail Stretching across the North and South Islands, Nga Haerenga, The New Zealand Cycle Trail, is an initiative to build a network of 2,500 kilometres of cycle trails across the country.

The trail links many of New Zealand’s Great Rides, some only recently completed. The network is already proving popular and offers something for all levels of cyclists to enjoy.

Our New Zealand specialists will be happy to advise you on which route may best suit you, the best time to go and how fit you need to be.

You may wish to hire a bicycle for your entire stay or simply for an afternoon; either way our specialists will be delighted to help you plan your adventure.

Family taking in Lake Hayes, near Queenstown

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Our favourite cycle trails

Which trail to choose

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Queenstown Trail The Queenstown Trail is over 100 kilometres long and winds around lakes, along the banks of rivers and over mighty suspension bridges.

There are a few hills but the trail is largely flat and you may choose to stop at wineries or local galleries to break up the ride.

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Hauraki Rail Trail This 82 kilometre trail is easily accessed from Auckland and can be ridden as different stages.

The terrain is flat, following the path of two historic railway lines along the coast, through farmland, forests and beautiful valleys.

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Hawke’s Bay Trails Connecting Napier with Hastings, Hawke’s Bay Trails comprise three distinct cycling experiences. Our favourite is the gently undulating Landscape Ride that hugs the coastline of Cape Kidnappers and provides wonderful views of the ocean and nearby Te Mata Peak.

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Paihia

Cook Strait

The network of cycle trails across New Zealand showcases a variety of landscapes and offers experiences for all levels. We can advise you on the best locations to include a cycle trip in your itinerary. Whether you wish to cycle for one day or multiple days we will arrange all the logistics for you. Three of our favourite trails are:

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Resting on Te Mata Peak, Hawke’s Bay

1. Twin Coast Trail 2. Hauraki Rail Trail 3. The Timber Trail 4. Motu Trails 5. Great Lake Trail 6. Hawke’s Bay Trails 7. Tasman’s Great Taste Trail 8. Old Ghost Road Trail 9. Alps 2 Ocean Trail 10. Queenstown Trail 11. Otago Central Rail Trail 12. Clutha Gold Trail

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Grade 1 These trails are suitable for all riders. Trails generally have smooth surfaces and gentle climbs.

Grade 2 Suitable for most riders. Trails are wide for much of the way with generally smooth surfaces but there will be some hills.

Grade 3 These trails suit reasonably fit and capable riders.

Surfaces can be rough and muddy and there will be some steep hills.

Grade 4 Challenging trails which suit fit and experienced adult riders only. Trails are mostly narrow with loose rocky surfaces and steep hills.

Cyclist crossing a suspension bridge on the Timber Trail, North Island

www.audleytravel.com/newzealand • 01993 838 820 • Cycling

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South Island B

lessed with great tracts of magnificent scenery, numerous national parks and breathtaking views around every corner, New Zealand’s South Island is a mesmerising collection of some of the world’s most dramatic landscapes. In the north the waterways of the Marlborough Sounds stretch into the Cook Strait and are flanked by some of New Zealand’s finest vineyards. From here the mighty Southern Alps head south forming the backbone of the island and are home to spectacular glaciers as well as the country’s tallest peak, Mount Cook, known locally as Aoraki. The island’s most iconic image, however, is the sublime Mitre Peak in Fiordland National Park, which casts a spectacular reflection on the still, deep waters of Milford Sound. To the south and east rich farmland gives way to hill country, and cities such as Queenstown, Christchurch and Dunedin proudly proclaim their British roots, while at the same time giving an effusive modern Kiwi welcome. Wildlife is prolific, particularly in the Otago Peninsula where you can see albatrosses and yellow-eyed penguins, while the Kaikoura region offers superb dolphin, whale and seal sightings.

Abel Tasman National Park

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Jet boating, Queenstown 1 Abel Tasman

National Park Paddle a sea kayak across crystal-clear waters stopping to explore deserted beaches.

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Sheep station near Mount Cook

Picton Blenheim

Westport

Accommodation Our specialists personally inspect the properties we feature and choose the very best of what is on offer to suit a variety of tastes, requirements and budgets. Many styles of accommodation are available in the South Island but some of our favourites are simple B&Bs, stylish wilderness retreats, traditional farmstays and small character lodges where a warm Kiwi welcome and comfortable room await your return each evening.

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New Zealand’s South Island is an outdoor enthusiasts’ paradise that is best explored by participating in some of the many activities on offer. Our specialists have hiked, biked, skied and sailed their way around the country and can offer first-hand advice on walking tracks, cycling routes, day trips and activities to ensure you have the best possible experience. We can also advise on the best vineyards to visit, arrange ecofriendly whale watching trips and help plan itineraries by road, rail or air, or a combination of all three. There’s nothing quite like speaking to someone who has already been there and we really do know the South Island well, so you can be sure to get plenty of recommendations to help you make the best of your trip.

Marlborough Sounds

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Karamea Bight

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Audley in the South Island

Tasman Bay

Let the scenery unfold around you as you travel along the coast by rail.

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3 Mount Cook

Gaze in awe at New Zealand’s highest peak; fly over it or trek in the surrounding Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.

See page 51 4 Queenstown

Immerse yourself in the atmosphere and activities of Queenstown.

See page 52

6 Stewart Island Get up close to the wildlife that inhabits the third island of New Zealand.

See page 62 7 Sub-Antarctic islands Join a cruise to reach these protected wildlife havens and the Ross Sea. See page 63

New Zealand wine Taste some of the world’s finest wines direct from the vineyard.

See page 42

www.audleytravel.com/newzealand • 01993 838 820 • South Island

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Marlborough Sounds

Marlborough Sounds Gateway to the Marlborough region, the Marlborough Sounds is often the first, and most impressive, sight people have of the South Island, greeting them as they arrive on the Interislander Ferry from Wellington on the North Island.

Formed by the glaciers of an ancient ice age, deep valleys were flooded by the sea creating a mass of bays, inlets and hidden coves. The winding, weaving sounds are home to an abundance of wildlife and a handful of properties tucked away in coves that are usually only accessible by water taxi. From here you can reach the renowned Queen Charlotte Track and spend a day or so admiring the breathtaking vistas afforded by this great walk. Alternatively you may wish to take one of the excellent boat trips to look for resident dolphins at play, visit the bird sanctuary of Motuara Island, explore by sea kayak or simply sit and take it all in from the comfort of one of the beaches.

Raetihi Lodge, Marlborough Sounds

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Bay of Many Coves, Marlborough Sounds Set in a quiet cove, this is a unique property offering apartment-style accommodation overlooking the glorious waters of the sounds.

This exclusive retreat has 20 stylishly appointed rooms with contemporary kitchenettes, private balconies and sailing, fishing and kayaking on its doorstep. There’s an all-day cafe and à la carte restaurant, an all-weather swimming pool and hot tub, a day spa and a beautiful swimming beach.

Bay of Many Coves, Marlborough Sounds

Raetihi Lodge, Marlborough Sounds Hidden away in a secluded bay in the beautiful Marlborough Sounds, the excellent value Raetihi Lodge offers peace, tranquillity and comfort in stunning surroundings. Each of the 14 guest rooms opens out onto a private deck and many boast magnificent views out to Kenepuru Sound.

In-house chefs create mouth-watering menus with a natural focus on the freshest of seafood.

Complimentary bikes, fishing rods and kayaks are provided, and a host of further activities are available as well as pampering massage treatments to soothe your limbs at the end of a busy day.

Dolphins in Queen Charlotte Sound, Marlborough Sounds

Sea kayaking, Marlborough Sounds

Picton Harbour

Dish of greenshell mussels, Kenepuru Sound

McCormick House, Picton

The Coastal Pacific Railway, near Kaikoura

Greenshell Mussel Cruise As well as being famed as a world-class wine producing region, Marlborough is also renowned for its greenshell mussels. Take a gentle cruise through the beautiful inner Pelorus and Kenepuru sounds to a mussel farm. Enjoy the stunning scenery of the Marlborough Sounds whilst learning about the history of mussel farming in the area, with commentary from your knowledgeable guide. During the tour you will also get to sample some of the mussels, fresh from the waters of the Marlborough Sounds, lightly steamed and beautifully paired with a chilled glass of Marlborough sauvignon blanc.

Picton Picton comes to life during New Zealand’s summer months as many visitors pass through on their journey from the North Island. The hustle and bustle dies down during the winter, but the Interislander Ferry still ships people across the Cook Strait on a regular basis.

Although normally seen in passing, Picton is actually a characterful town offering a great deal to those who choose to stay for a few nights. As well as all the activities in the sounds, Picton boasts a variety of busy cafes and good restaurants, and enjoys pretty countryside surroundings.

The Portage Resort Hotel, Marlborough Sounds The Peppers Portage Hotel has a rich history as a special holiday place for New Zealanders. The resort is tucked into a wide quiet bay and the 41 guest rooms are spread throughout the gardens with a range of views, particularly of the spectacular Kenepuru Sound. The rooms themselves are relatively simple in style but all have en suite facilities and most have small private deck areas. The main building has cosy lounge areas clustered around an open fire, a bar with conservatory and outdoor deck, and breathtaking views. The key feature of the Portage is the wealth of experiences and activities on offer for guests. From short rambles to full day hikes, sightseeing cruises, sea kayaking and wine tasting sessions with a local Marlborough winemaker, it makes an excellent base from which to explore the area.

McCormick House, Picton This delightfully restored Edwardian country house sits in large, mature native gardens which are home to tuis (a member of the honeyeater family), fantails and bellbirds. The three guest bedrooms are all individually designed with quirky features such as the claw-foot bath in the Captain’s Room, deluxe multi-jet spa shower in the Palm Room and blue lighting in the Boatshed Room. Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast of fresh local produce in the dining room before setting off for a day exploring the nearby Marlborough Sounds’ walking trails, boating on the sounds or wine tasting in the vineyards surrounding Picton and Blenheim.

Coastal Pacific Railway Linking the port of Picton with the city of Christchurch, the Coastal Pacific Railway offers a fantastic opportunity to discover the east coast of the South Island. The track passes through the undulating hills and vineyards of the Marlborough region and traces the east coast through Kaikoura. With the dramatic peaks of the Kaikoura Range on one side and the crashing South Pacific Ocean on the other, the scenery is incredible. The journey takes around five hours to complete.

The Portage Resort Hotel, Marlborough Sounds

www.audleytravel.com/newzealand • 01993 838 820 • South Island

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Trafalgar Street, Nelson

Nelson Nelson enjoys possibly the best climate in all of New Zealand – mild during the winter and warm during the summer, with more hours of sunshine than any other town. Renowned for its energy, vibrancy and colour, Nelson has a thriving local arts and crafts scene with more than 350 working artists and craftspeople, including traditional and contemporary Maori artists. Visitors can spend hours strolling through galleries, workshops and museums, and sample local produce in the town’s many cafes and restaurants. Tear yourself away from the city centre though, and you’ll discover the glacial lakes, divine beaches and protected forests of the Nelson Lakes, Abel Tasman and Kahurangi national parks.

Edenhouse, near Nelson Nestled in a serene valley in the heart of rural Nelson, Edenhouse is the epitome of luxury. This enchanting country retreat set in private grounds and landscaped gardens, offers two luxurious suites in the main lodge and a beautifully appointed, very private two-bedroom, twobathroom garden cottage. An air of understated elegance pervades from the cosy sitting room and formal dining room to the artists’ studio, den, library and courtyards. The food is superb and most guests choose to dine at Edenhouse. Above all, the care and hospitality of the owners will assure you of a most memorable stay.

Shelbourne Villa, Nelson

Kimeret Place B&B, near Nelson

Kimeret Place B&B, near Nelson Situated on a gently rolling coastline with views across the Waimea Inlet and the Richmond Mountain Range, Kimeret Place is ideally situated to explore Nelson and the nearby Abel Tasman National Park. It offers two spacious and thoughtfully furnished suites on the upper floor of the main house, each with its own balcony and two apartments that together form a self-contained two-bedroom cottage.

The property is built with native rimu timbers and has a heated outdoor swimming pool.

Edenhouse, near Nelson

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Situated in a quiet street yet only a short walk to the shops, restaurants and galleries of Nelson, Shelbourne Villa offers delightful B&B accommodation. There are four guest suites, two of which occupy the main portion of the house, and the detached Garden Suite which has its own private entrance. The Loft is the largest suite in the house, and comprises the entire upper level of the villa, offering complete privacy and stunning views of the city and Tasman Bay. Guests can soak up the sunshine in the colourful mature gardens which surround the villa.

Bronte Country Estate, near Nelson Tucked into the Waimea Estuary on Nelson’s historic Bronte Peninsula, 30 minutes from central Nelson, Bronte Country Estate provides comfort and luxury with an ever-changing view.

The original homestead occupies this prime location, now surrounded by five purpose-built guest suites. Dressing rooms, spa baths and kitchenettes complement the well-appointed bedrooms to provide the ultimate in luxury and comfort. The freshest homemade and local produce is served on the veranda and guests can enjoy the meandering gardens, heated swimming pool, tennis court, pétanque, mountain bikes and canoes and the seasonal beauty of the estate’s extensive coastal orchard.

Bronte Country Estate, near Nelson

Shelbourne Villa, Nelson

Hikers on Paddy’s Track, Nelson Lakes National Park

Abel Tasman National Park

Kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park

The Resurgence, near Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman National Park

Stonefly Lodge, near Abel Tasman National Park

The Resurgence, near Abel Tasman National Park

Stonefly Lodge is situated in half a square kilometre of private forest on the banks of the Motueka River, only 50 minutes’ drive from Nelson. This luxury lodge is located between three spectacular national parks, Abel Tasman, Nelson Lakes and Kahurangi, making it an ideal base for exploring the region. Activities from the lodge include fly fishing, sea kayaking, guided and self-guided hiking tours, wine tasting, white-water rafting and horse riding. There are just four guest rooms, all with spectacular views from private balconies of the Motueka River and beyond to the Mount Arthur Range in Kahurangi National Park. Each day a cooked breakfast, pre-dinner canapés and a three-course dinner are included.

Located on the edge of the two national parks, The Resurgence provides the opportunity to enjoy being surrounded with nature without compromising on comfort. Hidden away in an incredible bush setting, the property provides great views as well as peace and privacy. The six individual guest chalets and four lodge rooms combine natural wood with luxury. They include excellent kitchen facilities and barbecues on the decks, although delicious dinners can also be provided. There is a pool and spa pool, and extensive grounds with numerous walking trails.

The enthusiastic hosts are actively involved in conservation and are more than happy to share their passion for the native flora and fauna.

Abel Tasman National Park has a colourful and extensive history from Maori habitation through to European settlement. Now it is one of New Zealand’s smallest but most beautiful national parks, made up of native forests fringed with striking golden beaches. The park is at the northern end of a range of marble and limestone hills, honeycombed with caves and potholes. The Abel Tasman Track is one of the country’s most popular walks, passing through some of the best scenery the park has to offer. Alternatively, you can explore remote beaches and sheltered waters by kayak.

Copper Beech Fine Accommodation, near Abel Tasman National Park

Sea kayaking

This delightful property is the home of artist John Gatenby and his wife Carol, and combines very welcoming and comfortable accommodation in just two guest rooms with John’s private gallery.

The house, set against a mountain backdrop, is beautifully decorated with soft colours and sensitive lighting and is surrounded by large gardens. Carol’s superb breakfasts are served in the dining area or outside if the weather allows.

There are lovely estuary walkways within a few minutes stroll, the township of Motueka is just down the road and Abel Tasman National Park is a 30 minute drive away.

Although Abel Tasman National Park has a range of activities on offer, sea kayaking here is one of its greatest pleasures. The waters are shallow, crystal clear and calm, so even the most inexperienced kayaker can take to the water with a guide to paddle into sheltered lagoons, searching for playful seals and other native fauna.

With a variety of boat trips also on offer, we are able to tailor a day out which combines any of the elements you are interested in, and allows you to be as active or sedate as you like.

Stonefly Lodge, near Abel Tasman National Park

www.audleytravel.com/newzealand • 01993 838 820 • South Island

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Rippon Vineyard on Lake Wanaka, Central Otago, South Island

New Zealand wine & food Getting around the vineyards New Zealand’s vineyards can be visited on foot, by bike, by car or as part of a smallgroup or private tour. You could also drive around the wineries or join a tour of the lesser-known vineyards to taste a variety of wines, often with the option to include a winery lunch.

Wine is produced almost everywhere in New Zealand and vineyards can be found in most corners of the country. You might choose to travel through all of these regions, and there is a classic route through Hawke’s Bay and the Wairarapa regions in the North Island to the renowned vineyards of Marlborough and Central Otago in the South Island. Each of these regions specialises in different grape varieties, regional food, local culture and adventure experiences, ensuring a varied tasting and exploring agenda as you travel around.

Hawke’s Bay New Zealand’s oldest and second largest wine region, Hawke’s Bay leads the way in producing stylish cabernet sauvignons, merlots, syrahs and excellent chardonnays.

Many of the 100 vineyards and 70 wineries are open to the public for wine tasting tours and winery lunches, and provide the opportunity to buy wine direct from the vineyard. The region is often referred to as the ‘food bowl’ of New Zealand, growing much of the country’s produce, which has led to a proliferation of speciality food shops, superb restaurants and farmers’ markets.

Wairarapa Divided into the three sub-regions of Masterton, Gladstone and Martinborough, the vineyards of Wairarapa produce pinot noir predominantly, but pinot gris and sauvignon blanc grapes are also grown. The little town of Martinborough makes an ideal base for exploring the region’s vineyards, some of which are within walking distance of the town.

Wine tasting, Hawke’s Bay, North Island

Marlborough A unique combination of soils and climate enables the Marlborough region to produce wines with an extraordinary intensity of flavour. Combining impressive aromas, distinctive fruit characteristics and balanced acidity, Marlborough’s sauvignon blancs are some of the best in the world – a perfect match for local scallops and green-lipped mussels. Don’t miss a winery lunch in this largest of New Zealand’s wine producing regions; it may well be a highlight of your trip.

Gourmet food Alongside New Zealand’s outstanding wines, you will find many fine food producers including artisan bakers, chocolatiers, cheese factories, cider makers and coffee roasters.

With all this local produce your taste buds will be tantalised at every turn. There are regular farmers’ markets within each of the regions, olive presses and producers of liqueurs, schnapps, oils and vinaigrettes, as well as plenty of pick-your-own farms giving you the opportunity to match your wine tasting with the finest fresh produce on offer.

Central Otago New Zealand’s highest, and the world’s most southerly wine region, Central Otago is ringed by mountains to create the country’s most spectacular vineyard setting. The schist and glacially-derived soils are ideal for producing superb, intense pinot noirs, but riesling, pinot gris and Chardonnay grapes are also grown. The vineyards of Central Otago are easily reached from Queenstown.

Vineyard in Martinborough, Wairarapa North Island

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Wine tasting at Cloudy Bay Vineyard, Blenheim

Blenheim

Vineyard in Blenheim, Marlborough

Vineyards in Wairau Valley, near Blenheim

Blenheim Blenheim represents the heart of the worldrenowned Marlborough wine region and although the town itself is not New Zealand’s most attractive, the surrounding wineries and vineyards are well worth exploring. This is the place to pick up a bottle, or three, of Sauvignon Blanc either from one of the more well-known vineyards such as Cloudy Bay or one of the many boutique wineries. You can also stop for tastings and enjoy long, lazy lunches amongst the rows of vines. New Zealand’s approach to wine production is highly professional yet unpretentious and you will find yourself welcomed into the tasting rooms with typical Kiwi enthusiasm.

Grapes being hand-picked, Blenheim

The Peppertree, Blenheim The Peppertree, whose name is derived from the grove of pepper trees which line the drive, is a beautiful Edwardian villa. Each of the five guest suites is individual, featuring a fireplace, veranda or balcony as well as homely touches such as fresh fruit and home-baked cookies. The house is surrounded by lush farmland incorporating cottage gardens, an olive grove, a swimming pool and a boutique vineyard producing the hosts’ own Chardonnay. And, best of all, you will undoubtedly be invited to sample one of their recent vintages as you relax at the end of the day.

Lake Timara Lodge, near Blenheim Housing a maximum of eight guests within extensive, beautifully landscaped gardens, Lake Timara Lodge spoils its visitors with genuine hospitality and discreet luxury. Set on the doorstep are some of the world’s best vineyards; each evening you are able to sample superb wines alongside gourmet food served up by the lodge chef. Each of the four rooms and suites is tastefully decorated and has wonderful views of the grounds. The lodge has its own outdoor swimming pool and also owns the next-door winery, Spy Valley, with exclusive tours and tastings available for guests.

Lake Timara Lodge, near Blenheim

The Peppertree, Blenheim

Marlborough Vintners Hotel, near Blenheim Located in the heart of the Blenheim wine region Marlborough Vintners Hotel provides contemporary, self-contained accommodation right amongst the vines. The 16 suites are spacious and light with views of the surrounding vineyards and the impressive Richmond Range.

On site you will find The Vintners Room restaurant, which offers fine dining and the opportunity to sample wines from throughout the Marlborough region and beyond.

Marlborough Vintners Hotel, near Blenheim

www.audleytravel.com/newzealand • 01993 838 820 • South Island

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Dusky dolphins, Kaikoura

Whales & wildlife of Kaikoura Kaikoura is a small seaside town that enjoys a magnificent setting on a rocky outcrop. Set against a backdrop of mountain peaks, the spectacular landscape is equalled by a unique marine environment. Cold waters from the vast offshore depths mix with warmer currents forcing nutrients to the surface and attracting pods of dolphins and sperm whales that inhabit the waters year round. There are also several colonies of fur seals around Kaikoura and some beautiful scenic walks. For those with limited time we are able to arrange excellent wildlife trips; a great way to experience the area.

Blue whale, Kaikoura

Whale watching by boat Whale watching trips are one of New Zealand’s most popular wildlife excursions and Kaikoura offers superb opportunities to see majestic sperm whales. The boats are equipped with the very latest high-tech equipment to locate the whales and have a sighting success rate of over 95% . Depending on the season you may also see migrating humpback whales, pilot whales, blue whales and southern right whales. Orcas, the largest of the dolphin family, are also common visitors to the region.

whales and the dramatic vistas of the Kaikoura Range. Your pilot will provide commentary about the whales, any other marine wildlife you may encounter, and the surrounding landscape and local Maori fortifications.

Dolphins Kaikoura is equally well known for its dolphins.

Whilst you will undoubtedly spot these playful creatures during a whale watching tour, dedicated trips are also available. Getting into the water with a pod of several hundred dolphins is a memorable experience. The most common species is the dusky dolphin, which is gregarious and social, and highly acrobatic. They genuinely seem intrigued by interaction with humans, and will choose to follow the boats and circle the swimmers, clicking and whistling and leaping all around them.

Birdwatching With an incredible diversity of pelagic birds, Kaikoura is the albatross capital of the world and over 14 species are known to visit throughout the year. Many of these species are generally inaccessible in other parts of the world, but in Kaikoura are found within 15 minutes’ boat journey of the shore.

Responsible travel However you choose to view or interact with Kaikoura’s marine wildlife, you can rest assured that any trip we recommend is conducted in a responsible manner and that

Scenic flights An alternative view of the whales can be enjoyed on a scenic flight. Travelling by light aircraft you can enjoy incredible sightings of The Anchor Inn Motel, Kaikoura

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the species involved are protected in every way possible. The local council has adopted an environmental and social sustainability policy to reduce the environmental impact of the community and its visitors.

Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses, Kaikoura

Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses, Kaikoura Hapuku Lodge is dramatically situated between the mountains and the sea. From the four elegant lodge rooms to the five romantic tree houses, everything about this imaginative property has been built to the highest of standards. Stylish wood-burning stoves warm the rooms but on sunnier days guests can relax by the sheltered pool. The property is a 15 minute drive from Kaikoura but houses its own highly regarded restaurant and, given the tranquil setting, you are unlikely to want to venture far.

The Anchor Inn Motel, Kaikoura Enjoying a great location on Kaikoura’s Esplanade, most rooms at The Anchor Inn Motel offer sea and mountain views. This excellent value property is a short drive from the whale watching departure point and the heart of Kaikoura town. The self-contained apartments all have fully-equipped kitchens and there are barbecue facilities to use on warmer days. The owners are knowledgeable about local wildlife tours and will be happy to assist you.

Christchurch Tramway

Punting on the River Avon, Christchurch

Gourmet bike tours The flat terrain and many cycle paths make Christchurch a delightful place to explore on two wheels and this gourmet bike tour artfully combines good food and the great outdoors. As you pedal your way around the city you will visit food markets, cheesemongers, coffee roasters, a microbrewery with award-winning ales, a fudge factory and an environmentally sustainable restaurant. The finale is a three-course tasting lunch at an outstanding and elegant restaurant situated in an historic building within picturesque gardens.

Regent Street, Christchurch

Christchurch Known as the most English of New Zealand’s cities, Christchurch is the international gateway to the scenic highlights of the South Island. Made rich by the wool industry, the elite of Christchurch modelled their lifestyle on English society and remnants of this heritage remain.

Punts glide along the Avon River and trams clatter through the streets. Close to the river you’ll find the charming Botanical Gardens, a delightful display of indigenous and introduced species, with the heady scent of 250 different roses. The city was badly affected by an earthquake in 2011 when some of its lovely old buildings were destroyed. Some repairs are ongoing and it is an interesting place to visit with excellent galleries, good shopping and nice restaurants. Christchurch is surrounded by the extensive Canterbury Plains, fertile farmland framed by the peaks of the Southern Alps.

Eliza’s Manor Boutique Hotel, Christchurch

Orari B&B, Christchurch Originally built in 1893 by the England brothers, renowned architects of the period, the Orari is a fabulous heritage building that has been restored and refurbished to offer comfortable bed and breakfast accommodation. With just ten charming rooms – eight en suite and two with private bathroom – you are assured of a relaxing stay. The property is located right in the heart of the cultural precinct of Christchurch, directly opposite Christchurch Art Gallery and within easy walking distance of the Arts Centre, the Botanic Gardens, Canterbury Museum, Hagley Park and numerous cafés and restaurants.

Eliza’s Manor Boutique Hotel, Christchurch Built in 1861 as a family home, the Eliza’s Manor of today is a charming B&B located just a short distance from Christchurch city centre. The property has retained many of its historical features, including leadlight windows and an impressive main staircase. Guests can choose to while away time in the guest lounge for high-tea or out in the private courtyard. Accommodation comprises just eight well-appointed rooms, with its heritage rooms having baths as well as showers and some additional comforts.

Orari B&B, Christchurch

The George, Christchurch Ideally located near the lovely Hagley Park and just a stone’s throw from Cathedral Square, this boutique hotel is just a step away from the city’s key attractions including the tram, arts market, restaurants, theatres and gardens. The George has 53 spacious guest rooms furnished with understated elegance, many of which feature balconies from which to take in views of the city.

The George also boasts two restaurants that rate amongst the best in New Zealand.

The George, Christchurch

www.audleytravel.com/newzealand • 01993 838 820 • South Island

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Akaroa Harbour, Canterbury

The Banks Peninsula & Akaroa

Hector’s dolphin harbour cruise

Formed by the eruption of the Akaroa volcano millions of years ago, the Banks Peninsula is littered with reminders of its dramatic geological past from rocky volcanic outcrops to craggy headlands, deep valleys and precipitous bluffs. At the heart of the peninsula is the historic harbour town of Akaroa, the oldest in Canterbury and by far the most scenic. Originally a French settlement, it has the feel of a provincial village steeped in Gallic charm, and there are still descendents of the early settlers living in the area. The peninsula boasts a wealth of wildlife and dolphins are often seen in the harbour. This region can easily be visited on a day trip from Christchurch but it is worth taking a few days to explore.

The sheltered harbour of Akaroa is an ideal place for a unique encounter with the smallest, rarest and friendliest of the world’s dolphin species, the Hector’s dolphin. Cruise the tranquil waters of the picturesque Akaroa harbour and, if conditions allow, take to the water to join the dolphins in their natural environment. With only a small number of passengers on board you are guaranteed a memorable and very personal experience.

Beaufort House, Akaroa

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Akaroa Cooking School French street names, Akaroa

Beaufort House, Akaroa Originally built in 1878, Beaufort House is a beautiful historic home and garden which has been lovingly restored to combine modern conveniences alongside old-world charm. The property features just four guestrooms, each with a unique character and all offering either coastal views or out over its private vineyard and extensive gardens. Beaufort House is located just a short stroll from the harbour and its shops and restaurants, or you may choose to soak up the grand atmosphere of the property itself, relax in its elegant guest lounge, or wander around the 4,000 square metre garden and admire its protected trees, rare camellias, and roses.

Located right on the waterfront with spectacular views of the harbour and surrounding hills, the Akaroa Cooking School offers an indulgent but light-hearted day of cooking lessons, exquisite food and fine wine. Using the finest local, seasonal produce, much of it home grown or from artisan producers, the chef demonstrates how to create some signature dishes with the abundance of local produce available in the region. Each dish is paired with award-winning local wines and with small class sizes you will have plenty of one-on-one time with the chef so you can ask as many questions as you wish.

Hector’s dolphins, off the Banks Peninsula

Kea, native only to South Island

Views over Akaroa, Banks Peninsula

Arthur’s Pass A traditional Maori hunting route between the east and west, Arthur’s Pass is a spectacular mountain crossing from Christchurch in the east to Greymouth on the rugged west coast. A formal route was first carved into the mountains in 1864 by surveyor Sir Arthur Dudley Dobson and was later joined by the spectacular TranzAlpine Railway. On the western side of the Southern Alps, where the rainfall is high, Arthur’s Pass National Park is clad in a dense and varied rainforest, while on the drier eastern slopes mountain beech forests and river flats predominate. Many peaks in the park are over 2,000 metres high, with the highest being Mount Murchison at 2,400 metres, and so the activities of the area tend to centre around walking, climbing and skiing. The settlement at Arthur’s Pass provides a small selection of accommodation options and magnificent day walks that reward participants with 360 degree mountain views and some dazzling, cascading waterfalls.

Wilderness Lodge sheep, Arthur’s Pass

Arthur’s Pass, Southern Alps

Wild lupins, Arthur’s Pass

Wilderness Lodge, Arthur’s Pass Wilderness Lodge was designed and created by two keen ecologists who strive to demonstrate that responsible travel can both contribute to the economy and help protect the environment. Set in 24 square kilometres of nature reserve on a high country merino wool sheep station, a stay here is an experience in itself. Local materials have been utilised to create the 24 cosy, comfortable rooms, with careful landscaping allowing the surrounding views to take centre stage. In partnership with the Department of Conservation, the lodge’s team of ecologists has discovered and fostered a host of endangered plant and bird species and a daily programme of nature discovery activities is included.

The TranzAlpine Railway Making the great traverse of the Southern Alps, the TranzAlpine train links Christchurch on the Pacific coast with Greymouth on the Tasman Sea, in a journey lasting four and a half hours.

After the alluvial Canterbury Plains, the track rises steadily, hugging the contours of spectacular river valleys, to cross dramatic Arthur’s Pass before descending through podocarp forest and past Lake Brunner to the western coast. The train is comfortable and well equipped, with an open-air viewing carriage and panoramic windows that allow you to relax and appreciate the passing scenery.

Wilderness Lodge, Arthur’s Pass

www.audleytravel.com/newzealand • 01993 838 820 • South Island

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Passing through an ice cave, Fox Glacier

first-floor rooms have spectacular views over the Hokitika River and to the mountains beyond. A gourmet breakfast is served each morning, and in the evenings your hosts will be happy to help you choose somewhere to dine in Hokitika township.

Punakaiki Located in the heart of the Paparoa National Park, midway between Westport and Greymouth, is Punakaiki. This little township has grown up around the natural attractions of the nearby Pancake Rocks – limestone rock formations which have been transformed by a layering and weathering process known as stylobedding into what look like stacks of thin pancakes. When the tide rises, seawater surges into caverns below the rocks and forces its way through blowholes in impressive geyser-like jets.

You can take a short loop walk from the main highway around the rocks and main viewing areas for a bracing breath of fresh sea air and some incredible views.

Hokitika With its wide streets and historic buildings, Hokitika is certainly the west coast’s most attractive small town. Smaller, quieter and more interesting than nearby Greymouth, it makes a rewarding overnight stop. The self-guided Hokitika Heritage Trail incorporates 22 buildings and sights, of which the most impressive is perhaps the Carnegie Library, built in 1908 and now home to the West Coast Museum. Hokitika is also the country’s major centre for locallyworked pounamu (greenstone), best purchased directly from one of the many local artisans.

Fox & Franz Josef Glaciers Rimu Lodge, Hokitika

Rimu Lodge, Hokitika Rimu Lodge enjoys a stunning setting on the hills overlooking Hokitika. Rooms throughout the lodge maximise the views across the valley to the river and mountains beyond. Each of the four spacious guest rooms is tastefully decorated and offers en suite facilities. All rooms face northeast, enjoying the sunrise, with the two ground-floor rooms opening on to a large deck to enable guests to enjoy the sunny outdoors and listen to the birdsong in the surrounding bush. The

Misty Peaks, Fox Glacier

Pancake Rocks, Punakaiki

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Buried deep within Westland National Park on the rugged west coast, these two glaciers creep down the mountains to the pounding surf of the Tasman Sea. Nowhere else at this latitude do glaciers advance so close to the sea. The two villages at their base serve as starting points for exploration of these natural wonders, with excellent excursions on offer. Expert guides can take you on guided ice hikes, or you can take to the skies in a helicopter or light aircraft for outstanding aerial views. If the weather is inclement, take a dip in the hot pools complex, or visit the West Coast Wildlife Centre.

There are few B&B properties which can offer the views and location of Misty Peaks. Snowcapped mounts Cook and Tasman soar dramatically overhead, whilst Fox Glacier, mirror-like Lake Matheson and the windswept beaches of the coast are all within easy reach.

The five contemporary guest rooms offer comfortable accommodation and your hosts extend a wonderfully warm welcome making this an inviting base for your glacier explorations.

Heli-hiking & scenic flights By far the best way to appreciate the natural beauty of this area is to see it from the air. Choose between taking to the skies in a fixed wing ski-plane or an agile helicopter to fly through ravines, past glaciers and over craggy peaks before landing in some of New Zealand’s most inaccessible, aweinspiring landscapes. Your pilot will share with you a wealth of knowledge about the area and its inhabitants and point out the best photo opportunities.

Many trips include a snow landing on one of the glaciers, allowing you time to disembark and take in the views. For a more active adventure you can combine a thrilling helicopter flight with a unique guided hike across the ice following an experienced guide into ice caves formed by the movement of the glacier.

Hikers, Franz Josef Glacier

Misty Peaks, Fox Glacier

Te Waonui Forest Retreat, Franz Josef Glacier

Glenfern Villas, Franz Josef Glacier

Glenfern Villas, Franz Josef Glacier

Westwood Lodge, Franz Josef Glacier Located in the countryside on the outskirts of Franz Josef township, Westwood Lodge is well placed for visits to both the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers as well as Lake Matheson and Gillespie’s Beach. The lodge is a rustic log-cabin construction which houses three charming suites. A further six suites are set in the grounds in a separate purpose-built building. The spacious guest lounge and breakfast room houses a huge open fireplace ideal for cooler west coast evenings and a great place to unwind and chat with fellow guests.

Westwood Lodge, Franz Josef Glacier

Nestled in a quiet country setting with stunning mountain and native bush views, Glenfern Villas is perfectly situated just north of Franz Josef township and five kilometres from the glacier itself. Each of the 18 one and two bedroom, self-contained villas is stylishly furnished, providing comfortable accommodation. Many activities can be arranged from the property making this an ideal, and great value, base for exploring the glacier region.

Haast & Lake Moeraki For the keen ornithologist, a visit to Haast undoubtedly offers new species to tick off the list: fantail, tui, bellbird, grey warbler and the elusive kiwi are some of the many breeds known to inhabit this coastal district. Nestled amongst abundant lowland forest in the Te Wähipounamu – South West New Zealand UNESCO World Heritage Site, Haast is surrounded by some of the country’s most dramatic flora and fauna. Just to the north, Lake Moeraki is a fabulous fishing lake enclosed by pristine, virgin rainforest.

Te Waonui Forest Retreat, Franz Josef Glacier At the cutting edge of sustainable accommodation, great care has been taken at Te Waonui Forest Retreat to not only respect and preserve its environment, but also to incorporate the rainforest within the hotel’s design. You will find eco-friendly features throughout, such as natural lighting, soft timbered detailing and recycled local materials that make the retreat feel part of its surroundings. Comfort is a top priority in the 100 luxuriously appointed rooms, and in the appropriately named Canopy Restaurant guests will enjoy the freshest produce presented in a five-course degustation menu.

Lake Moeraki

www.audleytravel.com/newzealand • 01993 838 820 • South Island

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Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo The road into the heart of the Southern Alps leads you via spectacular turquoise lakes, which on clear days perfectly reflect the surrounding peaks. Lake Tekapo is a shimmering example of a glacial lake, milky with the sediment created by the grinding of ice over its rocky basin during centuries of geological activity. The township is blessed with unobstructed views across the snowline and the tiny stone Church of the Good Shepherd on the sweeping grassy lake shore makes for a picturesque photo opportunity. The lake is watched over by the bronze monument of a sheepdog, a tribute to the contribution these animals played in the development of farming in the area.

Peppers Bluewater Resort, Lake Tekapo Set near the shores of Lake Tekapo and surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of the Southern Alps, Peppers Bluewater Resort is in a stunning location. All 132 rooms are spacious, comfortable and contemporary; the guest rooms feature en suite bathrooms whilst the villas have the added convenience of full kitchen facilities and private balconies. Guests can unwind on the comfortable sofas in the bar and breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in the restaurant. For the more active, a wealth of activities is available locally including fishing, kayaking, horse riding and walking.

Lake Tekapo Lodge Lake Tekapo Lodge is a boutique property with stunning views over Lake Tekapo and the mountains. Three stylish rooms overlook the breathtaking vista. You can stroll across the road to a local restaurant, or arrange to have dinner in the lodge where your hosts will treat you to fine New Zealand food and wine. The property is within easy reach of Tekapo township and the Church of the Good Shepherd, with a footpath linking the lodge to the main road.

Lake Tekapo Lodge

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Peppers Bluewater Resort, Lake Tekapo

Three Rivers Lodge, Lake Tekapo Three Rivers Lodge is a modern, purpose-built B&B, with two rooms and a self-contained two bedroom apartment, located a short distance from Tekapo village. There are picturesque views of the lake and surrounding mountains from all aspects of this property, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering uninterrupted views. You can relax on the patio outside your room and enjoy a glass of New Zealand wine after a day’s exploration of this stunning area.

Three Rivers Lodge, Lake Tekapo

Church of the Good Shepherd, Lake Tekapo

Snow blowing off the summit of Aoraki

Scenic flight, Aoraki Mount Cook National Park

Glacier boat cruise, Aoraki Mount Cook National Park

Aoraki Mount Cook National Park

Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre

Now part of a designated UNESCO World Heritage area, Aoraki Mount Cook National Park covers an area of over 700 square kilometres, of which more than a third is permanently covered in ice and snow. No fewer than 22 of New Zealand’s highest mountains are contained within this park, and Aoraki (as Mount Cook is locally called), which translates as the ‘Cloud Piercer’, is the highest at 3,754 metres. The road takes you as far as Mount Cook Village, the starting point for a range of treks, flights, 4x4 tours, and cruises that explore the advancing glaciers. On a clear day the views are unsurpassed. Do watch out for cheeky alpine keas – inquisitive green and red parrots that inhabit the South Island high country.

The Alpine Centre pays tribute to Sir Edmund Hillary, one of the world’s greatest explorers, and also serves to showcase the Mount Cook region and its people. In a dedicated museum space the area’s history is outlined through the key themes of transport, climbing and the history of The Hermitage Hotel. A special area is dedicated to the life and achievements of the nation’s most famous explorer whose mountaineering days began on the slopes of Mount Cook. The centre also houses a full-dome planetarium, 3D cinema and state-of-the-art stargazing decks. Educational and entertaining, this is a must for anyone visiting the area.

The Hermitage Hotel, Mount Cook Village

Glacier boat cruise The Tasman Glacier is New Zealand’s largest, and unlike most glaciers it terminates in a lake.

This three-hour trip includes an alpine walk along the shores of Lake Tasman, sheltered below the Mount Cook Range, from where you board custom-built boats to take you on to the lake.

The grandeur of this ancient ice flow towers over a setting of ultimate serenity, shattered only by the occasional wall of ice calving off the glacier face and falling into the still waters of the lake.

The Hermitage Hotel, Mount Cook Village The Hermitage Hotel is one of New Zealand’s best-known establishments and is synonymous with the Kiwi spirit of adventure. Set in a spectacular but isolated location, it has a colourful history and is a surprisingly substantial place for such an unpopulated region. The hotel makes the most of the impressive views on every side and has 216 guest rooms from simple motel units to luxurious suites with expansive views.

The hotel also offers a selection of dining options meaning you can enjoy a hearty meal after a day out in the alpine air.

Hooker Valley, Aoraki Mount Cook National Park

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Queenstown and the Remarkables mountain range from the gondola lookout

Queenstown Sheltered beneath the imposing Remarkables mountain range and with the turquoise waters of Lake Wakatipu stretching into the distance, few towns in the world can boast a setting as dramatic as Queenstown. This breathtaking backdrop has led to a natural tendency for exhilarating outdoor pursuits but it wasn’t always so, the town was named at a time when its sophistication was considered fit for Queen Victoria. Today there is still ample opportunity for appreciating the natural setting in a more sedate manner. You can take the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship across the lake, catch a gondola up the mountain for unbeatable views, enjoy gentle horse treks or walk along one of the many trails in the area.

The Rees Hotel, Queenstown

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Hidden Lodge, Queenstown Hidden Lodge is only a few minutes’ drive from central Queenstown yet is set in peaceful natural surroundings. The lodge benefits from an elevated position and has stunning views of both Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables. The lodge itself is elegant and luxurious, combining the sophistication of a small private hotel with the warmth of a large family home. The four guest rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated.

Azur Lodge, Queenstown Hidden Lodge, Queenstown

The Rees Hotel, Queenstown Enjoying a delightful lakefront location on the approach to Queenstown, The Rees is named after William Gilbert Rees, the pioneer settler and founder of Queenstown. The excellent value hotel rooms and apartments are spacious and beautifully finished. All 150 rooms open out onto private balconies with panoramic views over the lake to the mountains beyond. The main building houses the Rees gallery and library, the bar and the award-winning restaurant, True South, which offers fine dining with a creative twist. The property is two kilometres from the centre of Queenstown with its huge selection of restaurants, shops and activities. There is a courtesy shuttle bus available to get you there, or you could take the scenic 25 minute walk along the lakefront instead.

Located just outside Queenstown, Azur Lodge truly maximises its breathtaking lake views. The main lodge is perched on a hillside with every room facing out towards the lake and the mountains beyond. Accommodation is in nine individual villas nestled amongst the native bush, each with a fireplace and deck overlooking the lake.

Azur Lodge, Queenstown

Cyclist taking in the view, Wellington

Fisherman on the Ahuriri River, near Napier

White water rafting, Queenstown

Outdoor activities New Zealand’s diverse landscapes have ensured the country’s place as one of the world’s foremost outdoor activities destinations. Certainly, for a relatively small country, the diversity of adventure experiences on offer is very impressive.

New Zealanders themselves are particularly passionate about the great outdoors and spend much of their leisure time tramping, sailing, rafting or getting involved with a wide array of sports. Experiencing some of these adventures for yourself can really enhance your trip so here are some of the more popular activities to consider.

White water rafting New Zealand offers a range of rafting adventures from calm river waters to raging untamed torrents, usually around Taupo or Queenstown. These exhilarating adventures are suitable for young and old alike; do ask our specialists for advice on which trip will suit you best.

Sailing Auckland is known as the City of Sails. Where better to go sailing in an America’s Cup yacht?

Lake Taupo, Abel Tasman and the Bay of Islands are also excellent sailing areas.

Jet boating Skimming the surface of beautiful rivers at high speed is a thrilling activity and jet boating is guaranteed to set your heart racing. This is available in Mount Aspiring National Park (near Wanaka) in Queenstown and on the Dart River at Glenorchy.

Admiring Lake Waikaremoana, Hawke’s Bay

Cycling & walking There are many cycling and walking trails throughout New Zealand and our specialists will be able to suggest how best to include them in your itinerary.

Golf With around 400 golf courses including many of championship standard, good value green fees and some breathtakingly beautiful locations, golfing in New Zealand is a real pleasure.

Kayaking A relaxing way to explore the coastline of a bay or lake, kayaks are easy to manoeuvre and ideal for those with no previous experience.

Our favourite places to try this activity are Fiordland National Park, Queenstown, Glenorchy, Abel Tasman National Park, Lake Taupo and the Bay of Islands.

Extreme adventures For adrenaline junkies why not try ice-climbing at the glaciers, pot holing, rock climbing, sky diving or the luge in Rotorua or Queenstown?

New Zealand is also home to the world’s first ever bungy jump, involving a heart-stopping 47 metre leap off Queenstown’s Kawarau Bridge to the rushing river below. These activities are not for the faint-hearted but guarantee a huge adrenaline rush.

Other activities Many more activities are available including zip-lining, 4x4 and ATV trips, diving, surfing, and taking a Harley Davidson tour around the Coromandel Peninsula. Please contact our specialists who would be delighted to help you plan your preferred activities.

Fishing Sport fishing is a popular Kiwi pastime and the seas around the upper North Island contain a host of big game species such as marlin. The Marlborough Sounds is a hot spot for red snapper whilst nearly every freshwater river and lake in New Zealand has an abundance of brown and rainbow trout.

Sailing in an America’s Cup yacht, Auckland

Bungee jumping, Queenstown

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Lake Wanaka, Central Otago

Wanaka Rivalling Queenstown with its picture-postcard setting, but infinitely more peaceful and laid-back, the small town of Wanaka sits on the willowedged southern shores of Lake Wanaka and is the gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park.

On every side mountain peaks rise to the sky, their reflections often shimmering in the glacial lake waters. In summer the shores are bright with alpine flowers and in the winter clad in snow. The area is criss-crossed with deep forested valleys, rugged rock faces and secluded flats; walking paths and bridleways meander through the rolling hills and water-based activities abound. A biennial attraction, on even years, is the ‘Warbirds over Wanaka’ show, one of the world’s best displays of historic aircraft in flight.

Wanaka Haven, Wanaka

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Wanaka Springs, Wanaka An excellent example of Kiwi hospitality, Wanaka Springs offers excellent value and is one of our favourite places to stay. This eight bedroom property is both welcoming and luxurious, and has beautiful lake views. The lovely gardens and patios provide ample space for guests to get out and enjoy the fresh alpine air, and there is a hot tub in the garden, perfect for relaxing after a day’s adventures.

Wanaka Haven, Wanaka Wanaka Haven is a beautifully appointed, luxurious property, located just a ten minute drive from Lake Wanaka, and ideally placed for exploration of this stunning area. There are five guest rooms, each enjoying spectacular views.

The property features an outdoor entertainment area with an Otago schist stone fireplace and barbecue, perfect for relaxing in the evening.

The bright, spacious open-plan living and dining room has a wood burner, deep sofas and beautiful views across the gardens to the mountains through the full height windows.

There is a heated outdoor pool and mountain bikes are available for exploring the local area.

Wanaka Springs, Wanaka

Edgewater, Wanaka Surrounded by the magnificent Southern Alps, and uniquely situated on the shores of Lake Wanaka, Edgewater offers 104 spacious, comfortable en suite rooms and apartments.

They each have their own balcony or patio, and are set within the luscious lawns of the hotel with views over the lake and mountains. On site, you will find the contemporary Sargoods restaurant, offering fine food with a distinctive Kiwi flavour, and the Wineglass Cafe, where you can enjoy a meal on the sunny outdoor terrace.

Edgewater, Wanaka

Glenorchy

Jet boat on the Dart River, Glenorchy

Musician in Arrowtown

Buckingham Street, Arrowtown

Glenorchy

Arrowtown

Set at the head of Lake Wakatipu, Glenorchy is a tiny settlement encircled by the towering peaks of the Southern Alps. It feels a world away from the buzz of Queenstown, despite being only a 40 minute drive along the lake. It is a great place for those interested in horse riding and also serves as the base for walkers, with access to parts of the Routeburn Track. Those undertaking trips on the Dart River will also stop off here before heading deep into the World Heritage area of Mount Aspiring National Park.

This beautifully preserved gold mining town is just half an hour from Queenstown and shares its spectacular backdrop, but the pace of life slows considerably in the tree-lined streets that shelter wooden churches and colonial buildings.

At one end of Buckingham Street, restored shop fronts now house galleries, jewellers, boutique food outlets and local wine stores, whilst at the other end are the tiny stone miners’ cottages which date back to the 1860s.

Blanket Bay, Glenorchy Bringing all the luxuries of the 21st century to the remote shores of Lake Wakatipu, Blanket Bay is magnificently located in a region where sheep shearers once created shelters from stitched blankets alone. Framed by the peaks of the Humbolt Mountains, this opulent lodge is a luxurious getaway. Timber, stone and periodstyle furnishings have been artfully combined to create a unique atmosphere and each of the 12 guest suites, either in the main lodge or the adjacent chalets, offers panoramic views of mountains, rivers, lake and sky. The lodge is one of the most exclusive in New Zealand and every comfort is catered for. With impeccable service and world-class dining you may find it hard to tear yourself away.

Blanket Bay, Glenorchy

Dart River Safari The Dart River was created by ice melt from the mighty Dart Glacier, which carved out a spectacular valley between the mountains. The best way to explore this region is by taking an exhilarating guided tour along the river on a jet boat followed by a walk through ancient forests to learn about the local flora and fauna. The trip also delves into the history of the area from a time when early Maori settlers came on a quest for jade. The final part of the journey is taken by road, leading you through more of the inspirational landscapes used to create the alternative worlds in the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit film trilogies.

Arrowtown House Boutique Hotel Just a two minute stroll from the cobbled streets of Arrowtown, this hotel is set in the original church grounds on an avenue with pretty flower-filled gardens. Accommodation is in five beautifully furnished self-contained suites. Each of the guest rooms enjoys mountain and garden views from the verandas or private courtyard gardens.

Arrowtown House Boutique Hotel

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Rob Roy Peak, Mount Aspiring National Park

Te Anau & Manapouri

Cascade Saddle, Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park Straddling what is known as the ‘great divide’ of the Southern Alps, Mount Aspiring National Park presents a breathtaking range of landscapes. At its heart is an untouched wilderness of glaciers, snowfields, mountains and valleys. On the western side of the divide, beech forests teem with native birdlife and sparkling waterfalls. To the east are glacier-gouged valleys sheltering grassy river flats where centuries of tectonic activity have left the landscape scarred with colourful and imposing rock formations.

Te Anau Lodge

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Lake Te Anau is New Zealand’s second largest lake, beautifully set on the edge of Fiordland National Park. The small township perches on the lake shores and from here you can explore the looming granite peaks, tumbling waterfalls and forested walking trails of the surrounding landscape. Hidden away at the far end of the lake are caves which sparkle with the light of thousands of glow-worms. Te Anau also has a boutique 52 seat cinema where you can see Ata Whenua - Shadowland, locally filmed footage of the national park in all its glory. Manapouri, just a short drive away, is set on its own lake, scattered with islands and framed by the spectacular Cathedral Mountains. This is the gateway to the lesser-known Doubtful Sound as well as the starting point for many walking and fishing trips.

Te Anau Lodge A former convent, Te Anau Lodge has been lovingly restored in a new location just outside Te Anau township. Much of the original oak panelling and timber flooring remains and each of the nine rooms has its own unique features and charm. Breakfast is served in the former chapel where light streams in through the stained-glass windows while the expansive grounds that surround the property add to the peaceful atmosphere.

Lakefront Lodge, Te Anau

Lakefront Lodge, Te Anau Just across the road from Lake Te Anau’s waterfront and a two minute stroll from the centre of town, this superior 13 room motel complex is set amongst beautiful gardens in a relaxing residential area. Studio rooms and luxury one-bedroom apartments all have a kitchen and offer direct access to the garden, which has views of the lake.

Milford Track day walk For those who would like to experience a little of the world-famous Milford Track but are short on time, a day trip from Te Anau is ideal. Led by an experienced guide, you will travel up to Te Anau Downs and take a boat to the head of the lake.

From here the track follows the Clinton River, crosses a swing bridge and heads into ancient beech forests before emerging at historic Glade House where you can enjoy lunch and a refreshing swim. Our specialists are also able to talk to you about the longer, five-day walk.

Milford Mariner on Milford Sound, Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park cruises Fiordland National Park epitomises New Zealand’s scenery at its best – dramatic, ancient, natural and pristine. The area has achieved UNESCO World Heritage status and visitors flock to see iconic vistas such as Mitre Peak rising sharply out of the blue-green depths of the glacially carved fiord. Although it is possible to view some of the region from the air, to really appreciate the scale of the landscape you need to see it from the water.

Protected from the swell of the sea, the meandering waterways are tranquil and flat, ideal cruising territory for even the most sickness-prone voyagers.

Milford Sound Thought by the Maori to have been carved out by demi-gods, the fiords of New Zealand are a natural wonder, whether glistening in the sunlight or dark and moody in the rain.

Milford Sound is without doubt one of the most beautiful, and Mitre Peak, so-called because of its resemblance to a bishop’s mitre, is best seen from its waters. Even the road into Milford Sound has earned itself UNESCO World Heritage status as it threads through lakeside forests, cascading alpine rivers and impressive mountain peaks.

Doubtful Sound Even more remote than Milford and the deepest of all the fiords, Doubtful Sound is equally rewarding. Bright blue tranquil waters are surrounded by an untouched wilderness of mountain peaks, fiords and rainforests. The area supports a rich array of bird and marine life, including crested penguins, fur seals and bottlenose dolphins.

Exploring the fiords These spectacular fiords can be reached by car, but escorted coach transfers can also be arranged. The ultimate experience, though, is to combine an overnight cruise with a thrilling light aircraft transfer. Please speak to your New Zealand specialist for further information.

Milford Mariner The majority of visitors to Fiordland flock to Milford Sound hoping to capture that iconic shot of Mitre Peak. However, when dusk falls and the day’s visitors have departed, Milford Sound descends into silence and the Milford Mariner, with no more than 60 passengers on board, quietly slips its moorings. Cruising south towards the open sea, its passengers can appreciate the landscape in all its natural beauty with guides helping to spot marine and bird species and providing an unobtrusive commentary on the magnificent scenery.

Dropping anchor in the serene waters of

Fiordland Navigator

Fiordland crested penguin, Doubtful Sound

Harrison Cove, there’s a chance to explore by kayak or from the ship’s small boats. As the shadows lengthen, a delicious buffet dinner is served in the spacious saloon before you retire to your private en suite cabin for the night.

Fiordland Navigator The Milford Mariner’s sister ship, the 72 passenger Fiordland Navigator, takes you on a journey even further from civilisation.

Travelling by coach from Lake Manapouri, you cross the steep Wilmot Pass before descending to Deep Cove where the Navigator awaits. The ship will take you the length of Doubtful Sound and its winding waterways, venturing out to the seal colony that guards the entrance, before anchoring in a sheltered cove for kayaking, swimming and exploration in small boats. The on-board guides will alert you to any wildlife sightings along the way and the skipper will shut down the engines and generators allowing you to hear the calls of the native birds. Dinner onboard is included and all cabins are en suite.

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Dunedin Railway Station

Dunedin The principal city of the south, Dunedin has an intoxicating mix of classical architecture, coastal wildlife and established gardens. A resolutely Scottish enclave, the street layout was designed to match that of Edinburgh and as New Zealand’s only university town, the city has a thriving cafe society and vibrant local arts scene, as well as a handful of excellent museums. Relatively easy to navigate, the centre focuses around the Octagon, an eight-sided plaza at the city’s heart, with residential streets rising sharply into the hills and overlooking the harbour. Rail journeys along the coast or through the spectacular Taieri Gorge, depart from the impressive central railway station; with its ornate frontage and beautiful mosaic flooring it is worth a visit even if you are not catching a train. Perched on the edge of Otago Harbour, Dunedin also serves as the gateway to the scenic Otago Peninsula.

The Seasider train, Dunedin

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Hotel St Clair, Dunedin Hotel St Clair enjoys a delightful location right on the waterfront at pretty St Clair Beach. The property offers 26 studios and apartments centred around an attractive courtyard. Each suite opens on to a balcony that affords wonderful views of the sea, the cliffs or the beach, and although new and contemporary in design, they are also cosy and comfortable on breezy days. The hotel houses the delightful Pier 24 restaurant and bar, while the attractive and laid-back suburb of St Clair also offers a selection of restaurants and cafes.

Fletcher Lodge, Dunedin

Fletcher Lodge, Dunedin This historic property was built by Sir James Fletcher in 1924 to serve as his private residence whilst he oversaw the construction of the New Zealand and South Seas Exhibition complex. It now offers elegant and luxurious accommodation in five guest rooms, each with its own character, and two self-contained apartments. To the back of the property is a secluded garden where guests are encouraged to relax with a drink or take a dip in the hot tub. Despite its quiet location, the house is just a short walk from the city centre with a good range of shops and restaurants on its doorstep.

Hotel St Clair, Dunedin

Birds of the Otago Peninsula Much of the Otago Peninsula is managed by a trust as a wildlife sanctuary and many species of sea birds and waders can be found around the tidal inlets, including oystercatchers, terns, spoonbills, plovers and herons. Visitors on a guided tour have an excellent opportunity to see the rare Stewart Island shag, as they nest just below the reserve’s viewing area. Southern fur seals can be seen at Pilots Beach and often their pups can be observed from the clifftops playing in rockpools or sleeping in the sun. At sunset visitors can watch from a distance as little blue penguins return from the sea and make their way up the beaches to their burrows in the sand; the rarer yellow-eyed penguins can sometimes be seen too. This remarkable abundance of wildlife is drawn to the area by the Southern Ocean’s cold currents which rise above the continental shelf providing a rich and constant food source. The peninsula’s Taiaroa Head hosts the only mainland colony of albatrosses in the world and the return of the first royal albatross, the world’s largest sea bird, to its Taiaroa Head breeding ground each season, is greeted by the ringing of Dunedin’s church bells.

Stewart Island shag

Royal albatross

New Zealand bellbird

Camp Estate, near Dunedin Camp Estate is a country house located within Larnach Castle’s grounds, just 500 metres from the castle gate. As guests of Camp Estate, you will have complimentary access to the castle and the gardens surrounding it. Camp Estate’s five guest rooms are beautifully decorated, and

Yellow-eyed penguin

feature large baths and cosy fireplaces. Breakfast is cooked to order by the host, and pre-dinner drinks and canapés are served in the evening.

For dinner, you can drive to the nearby village of Portobello, Dunedin City centre, or you can dine at the castle itself.

Camp Estate, near Dunedin

Otago Peninsula Encapsulating the best of New Zealand, the Otago Peninsula offers rare and unusual wildlife, historic buildings, woodland gardens, a spectacular harbour and dramatic coastal scenery. Like so much of the country, the peninsula is volcanic in origin, forming part of an ancient crater wall. For this reason the landscape is high and rugged along the southern side and sheltered to the north along the harbour front. A half day drive around the peninsula offers the chance to explore the rugged ‘high road’ which runs over the top of the peninsula via Larnach Castle to Taiaroa Head, home to a royal albatross colony, fur seals and rare yellow-eyed penguins, as well as the more protected ‘low road’ along the stunning coast. Excellent wildlife cruises, which explore the area in search of seals, albatrosses, dolphins and penguins, are also available from Dunedin.

Fur seals, Otago Peninsula

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Vineyard near Cromwell, Central Otago

Central Otago

Cromwell

The ochre land of Central Otago is recognised as New Zealand’s ‘Middle Earth’, a barren, dry and dusty world broken up by rocky outcrops of schist. The land was first settled during the gold rush that transfixed the nation in the early 1860s and townships such as Cromwell and Alexandra were established in its wake. Despite its arid setting, this patch of New Zealand is increasingly being recognised as a fine winemaking area.

The Alexandra Wine Trail is a well-established route linking several quality wineries, and nearby Cromwell has an abundance of orchards and developing vineyards.

The little town of Cromwell lies in the heart of the dry interior of Central Otago in a landscape of bare hills and schist tors. It sits on the shores of Lake Dunstan in an area that was settled by European sheep farmers before being exploited and transformed by gold seekers and dam builders. Today the town is at the heart of thriving sheep and deer farms, orchards and vineyards. Lake Dunstan itself is a major attraction but you should not miss the Clyde Dam, the beautiful Kawarau Gorge, the historic buildings of Old Cromwell, and perhaps try your hand at gold panning. The nearby Art Deco town of Ranfurly is well worth visiting and is a popular stop on the Otago Central Rail Trail.

View of Lake Dunstan from Cromwell, Central Otago

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Otago Central Rail Trail The Otago Central Rail Trail is a walking and cycling track that follows a former railway route for 150 kilometres through the heart of arid Central Otago. You can choose to do as much or as little of the trail as you like. It generally takes four days to complete the entire route and we can arrange accommodation along the way. En route you will discover an untamed, natural environment and learn about Otago’s harsh and daring past and the pioneers who completed incredible engineering feats to lay the tracks and build the many tunnels and bridges.

Cathedral Caves, The Catlins

Catlins Farmstay

Civic Theatre, Invercargill

The Catlins

Invercargill

The Catlins is a totally absorbing off-the-beatentrack area, an untrodden world where small patches of tamed farmland have made little impression on a landscape of formidable cliffs, wild forests, pretty bays and calm estuaries. The variety of birdlife is an ornithologist’s delight with many sea, estuary and forest birds in residence and, in some areas, the endangered yellow-eyed penguin. Here life decelerates and hours are whiled away walking on the beach, fishing for whitebait, wandering through native bush and exploring the Cathedral Caves.

Founded in the 1860s, predominantly by Scottish settlers, the southern city of Invercargill is laid out with broad avenues, tree-lined parks and grand granite Victorian buildings. Queen’s Park, with its lovely sunken rose gardens, lies at the heart of the city whilst the Southland Museum and Art Gallery is one of the city’s main attractions. From excellent shopping to lively cafes, restaurants and bars, Invercargill has all the benefits of city life with few of the drawbacks.

The variety and number of heritage buildings in the city centre add to its character and there are some fine museums, art galleries and parks to explore. Visitors can also take a trip to one of the nearby bush reserves, beaches or gardens.

Catlins Farmstay At the Catlins Farmstay you can experience life on a working New Zealand farm. Home to sheep, deer and cattle, the farm is located close to Curio Bay making it perfectly positioned to explore the stunning Catlins area with its petrified forests, dolphins, lighthouses and scenic walks. With just three superior quality guest rooms this property is full of character and personality. Your hosts, Murray and June, are a wonderful source of information about this fascinating area and will introduce you to life on the land in a welcoming and homely environment.

Fountain in Queen’s Park, Invercargill

Beersheba Estate, Invercargill Beersheba is a small B&B on the outskirts of Invercargill, tucked away in a woodland garden that is frequented by native birds including tuis, fantails and woodpigeons. There are two stylish rooms within the house and a separate selfcontained cottage nestled in the garden. The welcoming hosts serve up a gourmet breakfast each morning and are on hand to assist you in planning your time in the area. The attractions of Invercargill and the south coast are only a short distance away, making this a good base from which to explore.

McLean Falls, The Catlins

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Halfmoon Bay, Oban, Stewart Island

Wildlife

South Island robin

Stewart Island Some 29 kilometres across the Foveaux Strait from the South Island is Stewart Island. With a population of just 400, most of whom live in and around one township, Oban, the pace of life is relaxed and the islanders are genuinely friendly and welcoming. There are only 27 kilometres of roads on the entire island, so to explore beyond the immediate vicinity of Oban, hiking or boats are the only ways to go. Most of the island has a dense cover of native bush or rainforest and nearly 90% of it is protected within Rakiura National Park. The original Maori name, Te Punga o Te Waka a Maui translates as ‘the anchor stone of Maui’s canoe’ and positions Stewart Island firmly at the heart of Maori mythology.

As much of Stewart Island is uninhabited and protected, it offers an excellent habitat for native birds such as the bellbird, kakariki, kereru, tui, kaka and New Zealand’s iconic kiwi. On Stewart Island the kiwis, unlike their mainland cousins, are active during daylight hours and their calls can be heard in remote areas throughout the day and night. One of the largest of New Zealand’s six varieties, the Stewart Island brown kiwi is found in relatively good numbers on the Island – 20,000 are estimated to be living here. They are easier to see, however, on nearby Ulva Island, where tours combine a cruise with a kiwi spotting walk. The unique environment of Stewart Island is also home to Stewart Island robins, and large populations of mollymawks and albatrosses. There are also five species of penguins which nest in this southern sanctuary and a trip on the water often includes encounters with dolphins, sea lions, fur seals and even the occasional elephant seal.

Stewart Island Lodge

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Stewart Island brown kiwi

Stewart Island Lodge An unspoilt island retreat nestled in the natural beauty of the bush in Halfmoon Bay, Stewart Island Lodge has six rooms, all with balconies that offer unsurpassed views of the bay and surrounding hills. The main building includes a dining room and lounge, suitably appointed with leather sofas where you can relax in comfort, take in the beautiful view and converse around a large fire. In finer weather you can soak up the sea air from the deck.

Macquarie Island, Southern Atlantic

Captain Scott’s hut, Ross Island

Sub-Antarctic Islands Off the southern coasts of New Zealand and Australia lie the sub-Antarctic Islands, remote specks of land that are only ever visited by a handful of explorers, government scientists and a few expedition cruises. The islands are tiny havens for some of the most abundant and unique wildlife on the planet and lie in the cool temperate or sub-Antarctic zone to the south and east of New Zealand.

Visiting any of the six groups of sub-Antarctic Islands is a unique experience. All the islands are nature reserves and have dense concentrations of indigenous flora and fauna.

As such, the Bounty Islands, the Antipodes, Snares, the Auckland Islands, Campbell Island and Macquarie Island are afforded the highest protection and although tourism is allowed, it is only under a special licence, and numbers are restricted to minimise impact. The islands are a birdwatcher’s dream, with fulmars, petrels and prions in abundance, eight breeding penguin species and a vast albatross population. In addition you are sure to see large seal and sea lion colonies and, on some islands, carpets of wild flowers.

Adélie Penguins, Antarctica

Spirit of Enderby

Spirit of Enderby

The Antarctic It is possible to cruise beyond the far-flung sub-Antarctic Islands, through the vast emptiness of the Southern Ocean and the Ross Sea, to the great white continent of Antarctica itself. This part of Antarctica was the starting point for many of the pioneering explorers of the 20 th century and remnants of their efforts can still be seen. Perhaps the most famous is Captain Scott’s hut which stands on Ross Island and has been beautifully preserved amongst the snow and ice.

Voyagers here will see huge populations of sea birds as well as Adélie and king penguins and Weddell seals.

Spirit of Enderby is a fully ice-strengthened expedition vessel built in 1984 for polar and oceanographic research. She carries just 50 passengers and provides comfortable accommodation in twin cabins approximately half of which have private facilities. All cabins have outside windows or portholes and ample storage space. On board there is a combined bar, library and lounge area, and a dedicated lecture room.

Today, Spirit of Enderby enables small group expeditions to visit Antarctica and the sub-Antarctic Islands. Each expedition is meticulously planned and led by experienced, knowledgeable and passionate naturalists, ensuring passengers maximise every opportunity while at the same time minimising the impact of your visit. The real focus and emphasis of every expedition is getting you ashore in Zodiacs as often as possible for as long as possible, in maximum safety and comfort.

Expedition cruising The only practical way to explore the remote sub-Antarctic Islands and Antarctica is by expedition ship. These comfortable vessels are usually ice-strengthened and cater for a small complement of passengers in simple but comfortable cabins. The crew are experts in their respective fields, with botanists and marine biologists leading small passenger groups ashore on wildlife and discovery days ensuring any cruise in this remote region will be an unforgettable experience.

We also have a dedicated Polar Expedition Cruising brochure available. Please ask your specialist for a copy.

Zodiac on Fournier Bay, Antarctica

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Photographing Mount Ngauruhoe, Tongariro National Park, North Island

Walking & trekking New Zealand offers some of the most enjoyable walking in the world. With characteristic understatement, New Zealanders call it ‘tramping’, and it is possibly the nation’s favourite pastime and with such a wealth of natural splendour it is hardly surprising. It is perfectly feasible to take yourself off into the wilderness on a day walk, but it is the longer multi-day tramps that really get to the heart of the country. Selected routes offer the option of being accompanied by a local guide who will help unlock the secrets of the endemic flora and fauna you encounter. On such organised treks, accommodation is in simple yet comfortable lodges, often in bunk-style rooms, and hearty meals are provided at the end of every day. In most instances your luggage is transported for you so all you have to carry is drinking water and your camera. Track options cater for all ages and fitness levels, and the only prerequisite is a trusted pair of walking boots.

Queen Charlotte Track, Marlborough Sounds

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Trails are graded by the Department of Conservation (DOC) and you are free to decide whether to set off solo or join a guided group. The DOC is the central government organisation charged with conserving the natural and historic heritage of New Zealand.

They look after and maintain the tramping trails, ensuring they are kept in good condition.

Great Walks New Zealand has several dedicated ‘Great Walks’ as well as numerous other walking trails. Here we have outlined some of our personal favourites: 1 Tongariro Northern Circuit

Snow-capped volcanoes and craters, alpine lakes, pristine rainforests, sparkling rivers, dramatic waterfalls and astonishing wildlife; Tongariro National Park has it all. This 41 kilometre track, graded as medium, is widely thought to be the best of the North Island’s fine selection of routes. Beginning and ending at Whakapapa village, the trail is well marked and easy to follow as it winds its way around the base of Mount Ngauruhoe. For those with limited time, the one-day Tongariro Crossing encompasses many of the highlights and can be completed in seven to eight hours. It is widely regarded as one of the most rewarding day walks in the world.

Family on Abel Tasman Coastal Track 2 Abel Tasman Coastal Track The vast native forests of the Abel Tasman National Park are ringed by iconic golden-sand beaches and crystal clear seas, and enjoy one of the sunniest, warmest climates in New Zealand.

This three to five day 51 kilometre tramp takes you along the winding coastline past glorious bays with plenty of opportunities for swimming.

This is the easiest of our favourite tramps, suitable for all levels of experience. With a good network of local water taxis operating along the route, it is very simple to choose sections as day walks, returning to your accommodation each evening.

6 Kaikoura Wilderness Walk Taking you deep into the privately owned Puhi Peaks Nature Reserve, this exclusive small group guided walk combines a wilderness experience with the comforts of lodge accommodation in an outstanding alpine environment. The reserve is a protected haven for a diverse array of rare and endangered native species, in particular Hutton’s shearwater sea bird. With a maximum group size of just 12 and highly knowledgeable guides who can really help you to appreciate this pristine wilderness, the two or three day treks here are highly rewarding.

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Often thought of as one of the very best mountain-to-sea walks, the 56 kilometre Hollyford Track is graded as easy to medium and takes four to five days. Starting in the ancient beech forests of the Southern Alps, the track follows the stunning Hollyford River through dense rainforest down to the Tasman Sea. The diversity of the scenery is staggering, with glaciers, waterfalls, lakes, sand dunes, snow-capped mountains and surf all in one unforgettable walk. We highly recommend experiencing this track as a guided trip, incorporating jet boating, a scenic flight and a cruise on Milford Sound at the end of the walk.

Suspension bridge, Routeburn Track

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4 Milford Track This impressive five-day adventure tramp from Te Anau to Milford Sound is renowned for its glacially carved valleys, waterfalls, primeval forests and alpine flowers. It is always wise to expect rain when in Fiordland, but you shouldn’t be disappointed when it comes: the result is spectacular. Small streams become raging torrents in a matter of minutes before the sun reappears to a glistening, revitalised world. A total of 53 kilometres, and generally easy with one demanding climb on the third day, the Milford Track is a popular guided option or can be explored independently. Our specialists would be happy to provide further details.

7 Routeburn Track The popular Routeburn Track traverses 32 kilometres of wild and scenic mountain country between the Hollyford and Dart valleys at the base of New Zealand’s Southern Alps. This medium trail passes through two national parks, Fiordland and Mount Aspiring, and takes you into a world of alpine basins, tumbling waterfalls, deep forests and to the shores of shimmering lakes. The trek takes three days to complete and transport options are available from Te Anau or Queenstown if required, although sections can be accessed as day-walks from Glenorchy.

‘Tramping’ through dense rainforest

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3 Queen Charlotte Track At the northern tip of the South Island, this stunning walking trail through the Marlborough Sounds is renowned for its panoramic coastal views, native bush forest and historic landmarks. Sixty-seven kilometres in length and graded as medium, the track can be completed in four days, taking you into secluded inlets and along ridges between the Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds. There are no huts along this route; accommodation is in lodges or hostels which also serve perfectly as bases from which to access sections of the track for day walks, and you can return to your start point via water taxi at the end of the day. This ridge-top walkway affords incredible panoramic views over the bays and forests, with side tracks plunging back down to sparkling coves.

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Waterfall, Milford Track Mountain stream, Hollyford Track

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Abel Tasman National Park Nelson

Lake Tekapo

Doubtful Sound

Blenheim

Akaroa

Queenstown Te Anau

Invercargill

Dunedin The Catlins

Stewart Island

South Island Explorer This trip is ideal for those wanting to explore the South Island in depth, but at a relaxed pace. It takes in the best of the South Island’s dramatic scenery from the beautiful sounds and vineyards of Marlborough to the mountain scenery of the Southern Alps.

Milford Sound

Tailoring your trip The itineraries shown are designed to give you a flavour of what is possible, and are routes that work particularly well. We can use these as a basis to plan your trip or can design a completely different itinerary to suit your tastes and interests. Please call one of our New Zealand specialists to start planning your itinerary.

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Getting around The South Island is often reached via its international airports of Christchurch or Queenstown, or from a connecting flight from Auckland. Alternatively, if you are travelling from the North Island and have a hire car, the ferry from Wellington to Picton is a scenic three hour voyage through the Marlborough Sounds. A hire car is certainly the most convenient and flexible way to explore the rest of the island at your own pace, with safe and generally empty roads. There are two scenic railway journeys that you may also wish to incorporate into your trip, the Coastal Pacific, which operates along the coast between Picton and Christchurch, and the TranzAlpine between Christchurch and Greymouth.

When to go Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

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Day 1

Fly to Nelson and relax in this laid-back town.

Day 2

Explore Nelson or the neighbouring Abel Tasman National Park.

Day 3

Drive to Blenheim in the heart of the Marlborough wine region.

Day 4

Sample some of New Zealand’s finest wines or explore the picturesque Marlborough Sounds by boat.

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33 The best time to travel.

3 A good time to travel, but there may be some factors to be aware of.

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The best time to visit the South Island is between October and April, the New Zealand summer. This time of year is generally warm and sunny but winters, from June to August, are usually cold and snowy, but this can create some beautiful scenery. Spring and autumn can be good times to visit for those who are prepared to take a risk with the weather, and certainly there are fewer visitors than during the peak summer months of December, January and February. The South is a very mountainous island so do bear in mind climatic variations due to elevation. Rainfall is common throughout the year, especially in the mountains and along the coasts, whilst winter months offer a great variety of snow-related sports activities.

Time difference: GMT+12 hours

Prices We offer trips to cater for a wide range of budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline prices for your trip to New Zealand on our website, alternatively please call our specialists to discuss your plans.

Days 5-6 Make your way down the coast to the lovely French town of Akaroa for a couple of days.

Days 7-8 Drive into the Southern Alps to Lake Tekapo and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Days 9-10 Head south to Queenstown and enjoy the multitude of activities on offer.

Day 11

Continue on to Te Anau and take a trip to the glow-worm caves.

Day 12

Enjoy a scenic nature cruise on Doubtful Sound.

Days 13-14 Drive to Invercargill for a flight across to Stewart Island.

Days 15-16 Make your way along the southern coast to the little-discovered Catlins region.

Days 17-18 Drive to Dunedin. Take a guided tour to see the yellow-eyed penguins and royal albatrosses.

Day 19

Head to the airport for your onward flight.

Stay longer You could extend your trip by adding time in the North Island and incorporating the ferry journey between the two islands, or relax for a few days in one of the beautiful South Pacific islands.

Akaroa Harbour

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Suggested itineraries Hokianga Auckland

Kerikeri

Auckland

Coromandel Peninsula

Auckland

Rotorua

Wellington Blenheim Greymouth Kaikoura Franz Josef Glacier Christchurch Fox Glacier Milford Sound

TranzAlpine Train Queenstown

Highlights of New Zealand An ideal trip for those who want a taste of all New Zealand has to offer but don’t have as long to explore. It is designed to cover a wide variety of landscapes and experiences, from thermal reserves and vibrant cities in the North Island to dramatic scenery and impressive wildlife in the South Island, whilst still travelling at a pace that allows you time to enjoy your surroundings.

Day 1

Arrive in Auckland; relax and enjoy this vibrant waterfront city.

Days 2-3 Enjoy a Maori tour of Auckland before driving inland to the thermal plateau around Rotorua. Spend a couple of days discovering this geological wonderland.

Day 4 Day 5 Day 6

Spend the night in the magnificent Tongariro National Park.

Aoraki Mount Cook National Park Queenstown

Akoroa Central Otago

New Zealand’s Hidden Delights This carefully tailored itinerary takes in thermal wonderlands, pristine glaciers, untouched expanses of beach and popular activities such as jet boating or tramping, immersing you in New Zealand’s finest features whilst avoiding some of the busier visitor hot spots.

Picton

Wellington Kaikoura

Fox Glacier Wanaka

Christchurch TranzAlpine Train

Queenstown Doubtful Te Anau Sound

Active New Zealand One of New Zealand’s main attractions is the huge range of activities on offer catering to all energy levels. From sedate steamer trips across tranquil lakes to exhilarating light aircraft flights over outstanding scenery, this itinerary lets you see New Zealand in a new way.

Day 1

Day 1

Arrive in Kerikeri and drive to the Kauri Coast.

Arrive in Queenstown and relax into the town’s exciting vibe.

Day 2

Day 2

Explore the Hokianga and Waipoua forests. Visit the ancient kauri trees.

Take an exhilarating jet boat ride before driving to Te Anau.

Day 3

Day 3

Enjoy the coastal drive south to Auckland and take in the sights.

Enjoy a full day in spectacular Doubtful Sound in the heart of Fiordland.

Days 4-5 Make your way to the southern Coromandel Peninsula; explore or simply relax.

Drive south to Wellington and explore the delights of the capital.

Day 6

Take the scenic ferry from Wellington, across the Cook Strait and travel to Blenheim in the Marlborough wine region.

Days 7-8 Travel south to Napier for a relaxing stay in this lovely Art Deco town.

Cut across the remote East Cape to Gisborne.

Drive to Kaikoura and head out on the water for a spectacular whale watching trip.

Fly to Blenheim via Wellington.

Have lunch at a winery and continue to Kaikoura.

Day 10

Spend a day in Kaikoura.

Day 8

Head to Christchurch where you will spend the night.

Day 11

Drive to Akaroa.

Day 12

Day 9

From Christchurch board the TranzAlpine train and enjoy the mesmerising journey across to Greymouth and the west coast.

Soak up the atmosphere of this pretty harbourside town.

Day 13

Heading inland, journey from the flat Canterbury Plains up into the majestic Southern Alps.

Day 10

Explore the glaciers and Lake Matheson for views of Mount Cook.

Day 14

Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.

Day 11

Take the scenic drive over the Haast Pass to Queenstown.

Day 15

Wind your way south to the Central Otago highlands.

Day 12

Enjoy a full day nature cruise on iconic Milford Sound.

Day 16

Day 13

Head to the airport for your onward flight.

Take a full day to walk or cycle the Central Otago Rail Trail. Drive to Queenstown.

Stay longer

Tongariro National Park

Blenheim Kaikoura

Day 9

Day 7

Taupo

Gisborne Napier

Tongariro National Park

Day 17

Head to the airport for your onward flight.

Days 4-5 Head to Wanaka for some great scenery and walking opportunities.

Day 6

Drive over the scenic Haast Pass and north to the glacier townships.

Day 7

Take a guided walk to the terminal face of the Fox Glacier and see the beautiful ice formations close up.

Day 8

Board the TranzAlpine train for a memorable journey through the Southern Alps to Christchurch.

Day 9

Drive north to Kaikoura for a superb whale watching trip.

Day 10

Journey to Picton and board the Interislander Ferry to Wellington.

Day 11

Explore the vibrant capital.

Days 12-13 Drive north to the rugged Tongariro National Park where you can complete one of the best day walks in New Zealand.

Days 14-15 Continue North to the pretty town of Taupo and enjoy a day on a fishing or boating adventure.

Day 16

Drive north to Auckland.

Day 17

Explore the harbour on an America’s Cup yacht.

Day 18

Head to the airport for your onward flight.

You could take in the Coromandel Peninsula or Hawke’s Bay in the North Island, or include more time to enjoy all the activities on offer from Queenstown in the South Island.

www.audleytravel.com/newzealand • 01993 838 820 • South Island

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The South Pacific T

he collection of tiny volcanic islands and coral atolls scattered across the vast South Pacific Ocean are some of the most beautiful and remote places in the world. The powdery-white beaches, towering palm trees and sparkling turquoise lagoons perfectly encapsulate everything you could wish for in a tropical island destination. The magnificent scenery begs to be explored both above and below the water. Lush rainforests and mountain peaks are ideal for trekking, whilst stunning lagoons and secluded bays make for excellent cruising and sailing. Take a snorkel and mask and dip below the surface of the water where bright corals and remarkable marine life await.

Despite increasing modernity, ancient Melanesian and Polynesian traditions and customs underpin everyday life and visitors can witness time-honoured rituals and performances of song and dance, as well as enjoying numerous gastronomic delights. In particular the practice of offering a friendly welcome to visitors is very much in evidence and you will experience warm and sincere hospitality whichever island you visit.

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Vanua Levu

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Taveuni

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SOUTH PACIFIC OCEAN map not to scale

Audley in the South Pacific Although relaxing beneath the shade of a swaying palm is often most alluring, the scattered islands of the South Pacific offer a huge variety of sights and activities too. We can recommend numerous water-based activities to choose from including fishing, kayaking and sailing as well as some of the best diving and snorkelling in the world. On land you may wish to explore local villages or picturesque, unspoilt landscapes on a drive or trek. Whether you visit the South Pacific as a stop en route from New Zealand or Australia or as your sole destination, we can use our extensive knowledge of the region to help you decide which island to visit and how best to combine multiple destinations.

1 Mamanuca Islands A series of small, palm-fringed islands with sandy beaches perfect for relaxing.

See page 71 2 Apia

Explore the vibrant markets of Samoa’s bustling port city.

See page 82

3 Rarotonga Trek through the lush volcanic landscape of the island See page 74 4 Aitutaki An idyllic part of the Cook Islands ideal for snorkelling in crystal clear waters.

See page 75

Bora Bora 5 Bora Bora Stay in a villa on stilts over a stunning turquoise lagoon.

See page 79 6 Marquesas Islands Take a cruise to these remote and dramatic volcanic islands See page 81

Diving Enjoy the underwater gems of some of the world’s best dive sites.

See page 81

Accommodation The South Pacific offers a variety of accommodation to suit a range of budgets from locally-owned pensions where accommodation is simple to stylish overwater bungalows and sophisticated resorts.

Aitutaki, Cook Islands

Experience a Kava ritual Take in the traditional ceremonial drink of the South Pacific.

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Fijian man at a traditional festival

Fiji

Viti Levu

Now known for their spellbinding beauty and jagged rainforest-clad peaks fringed by whitesand beaches and clear seas, the Fijian islands were once notorious for their treacherous concealed waterways and tales of ferocious cannibal warriors. Known as the ‘Cannibal Isles’ for many years, their reputation kept even intrepid travellers at bay. However, the arrival of British missionaries as well as indentured labourers from India brought a more conservative way of life, and Fijians are now among the friendliest, most welcoming people in the world. Only 100 of the 330 Fijian islands are inhabited and it is still possible to stumble across deserted beaches, tumbling waterfalls, pristine coral reefs and the occasional tiny village. The beauty of these islands is beguiling, but it is the unaffected warmth of the people that makes Fiji so memorable.

The main island of the archipelago, Viti Levu is home to much of Fiji’s population and its international airport. Most visitors with limited time stay here, heading either for the Coral Coast on the southwestern shore or Denarau Island close to the airport. With a little extra time it is possible to seek out more remote retreats on the breathtaking outer islands. Viti Levu’s landscape of low-lying sugar cane fields, fertile deltas and thickly forested interior is scattered with remote villages accessible only by 4x4 or river. Suva, the capital, provides an interesting window to Fiji’s colonial past and those who make it to tiny Rakiraki on the northeastern shore will be rewarded with some of the best sunsets in the South Pacific.

Royal Davui, Beqa Lagoon

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Royal Davui, Beqa Lagoon Royal Davui is a luxury island escape situated on a tiny tropical paradise just off Viti Levu’s Pacific coast. Surrounded by a coral reef and accessed via a 45 minute boat journey, the island has just 16 luxury villas spread out amongst lush vegetation. Each detached villa comes complete with a veranda and private plunge pool and offers magnificent views of the beautiful lagoon below. With a lovely restaurant and bar, secluded white-sand beach and excellent dive centre, this adult-only resort provides a wonderfully luxurious and secluded experience.

Westin Resort & Spa, Port Denarau

Westin Resort & Spa, Port Denarau This beachfront resort enjoys fabulous palmfringed views of the ocean as well as a convenient location just 20 minutes’ drive from Nadi International Airport. Ideal as a base to relax for a few days or as a place to stay before transferring to one of the smaller surrounding islands, guest facilities are comprehensive and include a private beach, lovely pool and health spa and access to the adjacent world-class Denarau Golf and Racquet Club. There are 273 spacious, stylish rooms each with private balcony or patio and views of the large landscaped pool area or beach. The restaurants offer a selection of local and international cuisine and cater for both formal and casual poolside dining.

Marine life in the Mamanuca Islands

Malolo Island, Mamanuca Islands

Yasawa Island Resort, Yasawa Islands

Matamanoa Island Resort, Mamanuca Islands

Mamanuca & Yasawa islands

Matamanoa Island Resort, Mamanuca Islands

One of the most beautiful areas of the Fijian archipelago, the Mamanuca and Yasawa islands gently curl along the western shores of Viti Levu and north into the Pacific. Renowned for their magnificent beaches, warm dry weather and fantastic diving, this string of tiny coral atolls and small volcanic islands is easily accessible both by boat and by air from Port Denarau and Nadi.

The islands are popular but extremely tranquil; many have only one resort and you can visit local villages on the larger islands that still survive on fishing and subsistence farming. It is likely you will encounter a kava ritual or two in one of the resorts or villages. This colourful ritual involves sharing a drink made from ground pepper plant roots served in hollowed half coconut shells.

Whilst not a pleasant taste initially, the rituals are good fun and visitors are made to feel very welcome. You may wish to travel around this region and island-hop or stay put and relax on one island.

Tokoriki Island Resort, Mamanuca Islands

Out of the many incredible beaches in the Mamanucas, Matamanoa is arguably one of the best. A sweeping crescent of pristine white sand curving between lush vegetation and turquoise waters, it provides a stunning location for this adult-only resort. The 46 beachfront bures, villas and rooms are designed in a traditional Fijian style and offer good value for money. There is a great spa, a popular restaurant overlooking the Pacific Ocean and a range of activities to keep you busy. There are kayaks and small sail boats for guest use and a dive centre offering a chance to access numerous local dive spots to see the incredible marine life.

Tokoriki Island Resort, Mamanuca Islands Tokoriki Island Resort has 36 freestanding, thatched seafront bures and villas on a private island in the Mamanucas. The resort is within easy reach of the main island of Viti Levu but feels wonderfully isolated. Each bure is spacious and stylish, and features outdoor showers and fantastic ocean and sunset views. Exclusively for couples, the resort is perfect for those seeking a quiet and relaxing retreat. There is a spectacular infinity pool and a stunning spa set into the hillside. The open-air restaurant serves delicious food and sits on a large terrace overlooking a string of islands.

Likuliku, Mamanuca Islands

Likuliku, Mamanuca Islands One of Fiji’s most tranquil, luxurious hideaways and an Audley favourite, Likuliku is a stylish retreat positioned on the edge of a stunning lagoon. The 45 bures here line the pristine beach with ten of them perched on stilts right over the lagoon itself. Nestled amongst the palms are all the facilities you would expect of a leading resort including a restaurant, dive centre, gym, spa and inviting infinity pool. The rooms are wonderfully spacious and utilise many local materials carefully blended with modern amenities to create a traditional experience in a luxurious setting. All rooms feature large outdoor decks with daybeds and lagoon views.

Yasawa Island Resort, Yasawa Islands Tucked amongst the palms of a beautiful island in the Yasawa chain, Yasawa Island Resort has just 18 bures offering complete and utter luxury. The bures are steps from the stunning beach and each has a discreet outdoor shower, expansive deck, separate living area, daybeds and a hammock strung between the palm trees.

Despite its remote setting, comfort is never compromised and there is a choice of dining locations and a range of activities on offer. With no other resort on Yasawa and no radios, televisions or traffic, the resort feels wonderfully secluded and is a perfect island escape.

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Wairiki Mission Church, Taveuni Island

Taveuni Island Resort & Spa

Infinity pool at Taveuni Island Resort & Spa

Northern Islands Venturing north to Fiji’s second and third-largest islands, Vanua Levu and Taveuni, is like stepping back in time with a leisurely pace of life and largely undeveloped landscape. Local culture has remained relatively intact, the rainforest is dense and is virtually unexplored, and the surrounding reefs are pristine. Access to the islands is typically via a short flight from Nadi, which gives you a bird’s eye view of the landscape of tumbling waterfalls, beautiful beaches and volcanic peaks soaring out of the rainforest canopy.

Bure at Matangi Private Island Resort

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Set on a lush hillside on Fiji’s third largest island, Taveuni Island Resort & Spa is nestled between the verdant forested mountains of Bouma National Heritage Park and some of the world’s finest diving in the Somosomo Straits. A small and intimate lodge, it has just 12 bures handcrafted from local woods and with cool tiled floors, private courtyard showers and wonderful ocean vistas. The two-bedroom luxury villa offers superb views and has its own private plunge pool, chef and butler service. With the beach just a two minute walk down the hill Taveuni is a perfect romantic retreat, as well as being a favourite with divers.

Matangi Private Island Resort

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, Vanua Levu The award winning Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort is one of the most renowned in the South Pacific.

Set in a coconut plantation overlooking Savusavu Bay, it has 25 charming bures with king size beds, sea breezes and wonderful views. None have televisions or telephones ensuring complete peace and quiet. Diving at the resort is worldclass and a variety of other activities for both children and adults is available, with the kids’ club and nanny services making this an excellent resort for families. Designated adult-only areas also mean that couples and honeymooners are equally well catered for with undisturbed beach and poolside areas for sitting back and just soaking up the atmosphere of the South Pacific.

Horseshoe-shaped Matangi is a privately-owned island close to Taveuni. Home to a stunning resort, it offers complete seclusion and privacy in a relaxed informal setting. There are just nine bures here along with three treehouses and a two-bedroom villa. The island has a selection of gorgeous beaches and is close to some of the best dive sites in the South Pacific. The resort can provide equipment and courses for divers of all abilities as well as plenty of other activities such as kayaking and sailing.

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, Vanua Levu

Aranui 5

Cruising & sailing With hundreds of islands dotted across a turquoise blue ocean, the South Pacific is a paradise for sailing enthusiasts and for those visitors seeking to explore the islands in more depth. Cruise the South Seas past tranquil bays and inlets and across stunning lagoons and you’ll encounter some of the most dramatic scenery imaginable. Some of the islands are particularly remote ensuring they retain their tranquillity and traditional charm, with local villages that have remained virtually unchanged for centuries. Itineraries vary in duration from a few days to two weeks, and with a new island and coral reef to visit every day, there are endless opportunities for land and water-based activities.

M/V Reef Endeavour

M/V Reef Endeavour, Fiji The M/V Reef Endeavour is a small cruise ship that operates from Viti Levu and sails throughout the Yasawa Islands and northern Fiji. The ship caters for no more than 130 guests and her relatively small size means she can negotiate remote reefs, islands and shallow bays that larger ships cannot access.

The ship’s design provides many big ship comforts including swimming pool and spa pools, staterooms that open onto the extensive outside deck, and an embarkation platform with a lift from the water level to the main deck.

Aranui 5, French Polynesia

Green turtle, French Polynesia

The Aranui 5 operates from Tahiti around the dramatic Marquesas Islands. Making regular stops to unload supplies, the cruise allows passengers a fabulous insight into traditional island culture and the landscapes that inspired artists for many years. The ship is used for both passengers and cargo and has been tastefully designed with space and comfort in mind. Accommodation comprises 103 cabins across eight categories, many of which have private balconies. Whilst on board you’ll learn about Marquesan history, culture and art from the guest lecturers, while the fully-equipped gym and swimming pool allow you to stretch your muscles whilst enjoying the ocean views.

Tahiti Yacht Charters, French Polynesia

M/S Paul Gauguin, French Polynesia

What better way to explore the natural beauty and turquoise lagoons of French Polynesia’s Society Islands than on board your own private catamaran. Boat charters have an experienced crew on board that will take care of your every whim and there are a wide range of itineraries to choose from for either three or six night adventures. You can add kayaks or dive gear to the charter so that you can explore the islands in a more intimate way and for experienced sailors the option of bareboat charters is also available.

The M/S Paul Gauguin was designed specifically for sailing around the shallow waters of French Polynesia and visiting smaller ports. This stylish vessel can accommodate 332 passengers and manages to combine a relaxing environment with genuine comfort and luxury. It offers spacious suites and staterooms, most with private balconies, a choice of three dining venues, an extensive spa and a range of water sports. The atmosphere on board is warm and informal and the talented staff add a unique French Polynesian personality to every cruise.

Fiji Princess, Fiji The elegant Fiji Princess is a 184 foot luxurious mini-cruiser with 34 spacious, air-conditioned cabins. Sailing throughout Fiji’s Yasawa Islands chain, trips depart from Port Denarau on Viti Levu. The ship is well equipped and provides the opportunity to explore some of the more remote parts of Fiji in real comfort. Each of the luxurious cabins has an en suite bathroom and all have large panoramic windows providing incredible ocean views.

M/S Paul Gauguin

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Muri Beach, Rarotonga

The Cook Islands Scattered over an area the size of Western Europe, the 15 tiny islands that make up the Cook Islands archipelago are an hypnotic blend of rainforest-cloaked mountains, idyllic beaches, teeming coral reefs and peaceful lagoons. Even by South Pacific standards they are a serene and unspoiled retreat. The lack of development here emphasises the islands’ amazing beauty, but along with the spectacular scenery you will also encounter a vibrant local culture influenced by Christian missionaries but primarily based on an ancient Polynesian belief system that embraces a series of gods, myths and legends.

Rarotonga The largest of the islands, Rarotonga, rises some 4,500 metres from the ocean floor. Created as a result of violent volcanic activity millions of years ago, the island’s interior, most of which is uninhabited and untouched, is made up of eroded volcanic peaks clad in dense rainforest.

Exploring the interior is a rewarding experience and a 4x4 expedition or cross-island trek are two of the best ways to see it. Contrasting sharply with the lush vegetation and mountainous terrain, the largely flat coastal area is fringed with ribbons of white sand giving way to mesmerising blue lagoons. The islands’ townships cling to the shoreline and are home to small but strong

communities. A visit to a weekend market or a local church service is a wonderful introduction to island life. To the southeast of the island the graceful wide lagoon is protected by an outer reef making it ideal for swimming, snorkelling and water sports. Local restaurants showcase a variety of seafood and tropical fruits such as pineapples, papayas, coconuts and bananas that form the basis of the local diet.

Royale Takitumu Villas, Rarotonga Set amongst lush vegetation, tropical pools and native flowers, this exclusive development offers comfort, style and seclusion. The ten beautiful villas have glorious views of the beach or are set back amongst the elegant landscaped gardens.

A pool and pristine white-sand beach are ideal for lazing around but you can also use the resort’s kayaks or snorkelling equipment to explore the lagoon.

Royale Takitumu Villas, Rarotonga

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Crown Beach Resort, Rarotonga The Crown Beach Resort offers 36 spacious, self-contained villas nestled in extensive tropical gardens that lead onto a beautiful stretch of white-sand beach. The stunning swimming pool offers superb views of the beach and the gardens and is an ideal place to relax with a good book.

There is a wonderful spa offering a range of treatments and the resort has two restaurants; Flambé offers fine dining options with fire dancing on Saturdays, and relaxed all day dining with an ocean view and Pacific rim cuisine is available at Oceans restaurant.

Little Polynesian, Rarotonga Perched on palm-fringed golden sands, Little Polynesian is operated by a professional yet incredibly friendly local team. The resort, which has only 14 villas, retains a small and intimate ambience and offers attention to detail and service which is second to none. Choose between beachfront bungalows with views across the lagoon and out to the ocean, or studios set amongst the beautifully tailored tropical gardens. Accommodation here is private and spacious and decorated in a classic yet sophisticated traditional island style. Resort facilities include an infinity pool with magnificent views and a delightful little restaurant.

Crown Beach Resort, Rarotonga

Little Polynesian, Rarotonga

Hibiscus flower, Aitutaki

Snorkelling in Aitutaki

Rarotonga Beach Bungalows, Rarotonga

Rarotonga Beach Bungalows Facing a wide, tranquil white-sand beach, Rarotonga Beach Bungalows are located on Rarotonga’s southern coast. Each bungalow looks onto the turquoise lagoon which boasts one of the most sheltered snorkelling areas on the island and is home to a protected marine wildlife area where tropical fish and coral abound. Each one of the five elevated bungalows is surrounded by white sand and areca palms and is built to a traditional design. Decorated with coconut palms, cloth and woven bamboo, the interiors reflect the local style. Although there is no restaurant at the property, the excellent Paw Paw Patch restaurant is just a few minutes’ walk away and there is also a small lounge, morning coffee bar and library.

Dancers wearing flower leis, Aitutaki

Aitutaki This atoll, first settled by Melanesian sailors around 800 BC, is one of the most beautiful in the South Pacific. The gently sloping island looks out over a massive, shimmering turquoise lagoon fringed by a ribbon of islets and a glorious ring of coral. Though just 200 kilometres north of Rarotonga, this low coral island is completely different in feel with cruises, sailing and snorkelling expeditions focused on the sheltered lagoon. Bone fishing is a special attraction and there is superb diving on the sheer outer reefs.

For most visitors it is the pristine, white-sand beaches that are the major draw, offering a wonderful opportunity to relax in a place where time has little meaning.

Etu Moana Boutique Beach Villas, Aitutaki

although there is no restaurant onsite, breakfast is served by the pool and your hosts will be able to arrange dinner or ‘island nights’ at one of the other nearby resorts or restaurants. You can relax with a drink by the pool, or make use of the complimentary snorkelling gear, kayaks or bicycles to explore the island.

Pacific Resort, Aitutaki Throw away your watch, sit back and relax at this beautiful resort where just 27 guest bungalows and villas nestle in the shade of tropical forest. One of the most luxurious hotels in the Cook Islands, Pacific Resort offers Polynesian architecture, colonial furnishings and fine food and wine in a relaxed and elegant atmosphere. All accommodation is air conditioned and has a large veranda within steps of a long white-sand beach washed by the waters of a sheltered lagoon.

This boutique resort houses just ten beautiful villas, created in a modern Polynesian style and nestled between the hill and the lagoon. The resort has been carefully designed so every bungalow enjoys views through the tropical gardens and past the pool to the turquoise lagoon beyond. The villas themselves feature thatched roofs, large covered verandas, hardwood floors, teak furniture, and marble tiled bathrooms that open out into your own private garden with outdoor shower. The fully equipped kitchens allow you the option to self-cater, and Etu Moana Boutique Beach Villas, Aitutaki

Pacific Resort, Aitutaki

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Dance performance, Tahiti

Tahiti

Marine life, Tahiti

French Polynesia French Polynesia is a spectacular landscape of small islands that rise seductively above pristine coral reefs and incredible turquoise lagoons that are home to abundant tropical marine life. This exotic environment has lured artists and writers such as Paul Gauguin away from Western society to a simpler existence and has been the inspiration for many creative works. For such a small land mass the scenery is amazingly diverse here as are the languages, cultures and traditions retained by the local people. It is fascinating to immerse yourself in local history with a visit to some of the many ancient sacred sites scattered across the islands. Whether you’re looking for five star luxury or an adventurous journey of discovery, you’ll find the ultimate tropical paradise experience in these beautiful islands.

The best known of all the French Polynesian islands, Tahiti is stunningly beautiful and gloriously relaxed. Dominated by the peak of Orohena, the island has a rocky coastline interspersed with long beaches of black sand ground from the island’s basalt by the pounding Pacific surf. The narrow Taravao Isthmus connects the big island Tahiti Nui to the smaller island Tahiti Iti. To the northwest of Tahiti Nui is the city of Papeete, the political and economic heart of the country and its international gateway. The interior is mountainous, criss-crossed by beautiful deep valleys and offers great walks in the shade of cathedral ferns. However, most visitors stay close to the coast, enjoying the charms of the island’s sophisticated hotels and lodges.

InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa

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Mataiva Bay, Tahiti

InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa This 246 room resort is positioned in a magical setting on the west coast of Tahiti. Nestled in tropical gardens surrounded by clear ocean waters and just a short journey from the airport, it is a convenient and luxurious base. The resort has a comprehensive range of facilities with two infinity swimming pools, a dive school, a wide selection of water sports and a choice of restaurants. Perhaps the hotel is at its best at sunset however, when the sun drops over the volcanic peaks of Moorea Island 19 kilometres away across the Sea of Moons: a truly captivating sight.

Lagoon snorkelling, Moorea

Mount Rotui, Moorea

Canoe race competitor, Tahiti

Aerial view of Huahine

Te Tiare Beach Resort, Huahine

Moorea

Huahine

With its jagged mountain peaks clothed in lush jungle dropping into the translucent blue waters of the South Pacific, Moorea rivals its sister island Tahiti for sheer beauty. Moorea is much smaller than Tahiti and prides itself on being one of the most unspoilt islands in Polynesia whilst still offering the combination of complete relaxation and a variety of activities. The island is fringed by a reef which protects a shallow turquoise lagoon that is home to thousands of species of fish, coral and other marine life, making a boat trip here an unmissable experience. The interior of the island offers a completely different perspective and climbing up to the lookout point between Mount Rotui and Mount Tohiea gives dramatic views down to Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay. Moorea is easily reached by boat or plane from Tahiti and is well-connected with the islands of Huahine, Taha’a, Bora Bora and Raiatea – collectively known as The Society Islands.

Perhaps the most picturesque of all the Society Islands, Huahine is actually two islands separated by a narrow channel and linked by a bridge. Its mountainous interior is ringed by magnificent bays and pristine white-sand beaches. It is home to one of the largest and best-known archaeological sites of Polynesia, the Maeva Marae, at the foot of Mount Mouatapu.

Traditionally, Huahine was known as the ‘rebel island’ and famed for its fierce warriors and its resistance to change. Perhaps for this reason it remains a little-known gem amongst the Society Islands and offers a unique chance to discover a remote, untouched region of outstanding beauty.

The island’s verdant forests and fruit plantations create an impression of a beautiful garden.

Sofitel Moorea La Ora Beach Resort

Manava Beach Resort & Spa, Moorea

Manava Beach Resort & Spa, Moorea Set on a long white-sand beach, the Manava offers 88 guest rooms and suites including 28 over-water bungalows and a selection of beach and garden rooms. All rooms have ceiling fans or air conditioning, a sun deck, and are decorated in a Polynesian style. There is an excellent restaurant, a fantastic pool and a wide range of water sports available.

Sofitel Moorea La Ora Beach Resort The Sofitel Moorea is situated on the edge of a magnificent bay with views towards the island of Tahiti. The resort is made up of 113 luxurious bungalows built over the water, on the beachfront or surrounded by landscaped gardens. With two restaurants, a bar, a magnificent outdoor swimming pool, day spa, Jacuzzi and tennis courts there are plenty of facilities on offer.

Te Tiare Beach Resort, Huahine Accessible only by boat from the nearby village of Fare, Te Tiare is remote and luxurious, with 39 air-conditioned bungalows set in lush tropical gardens, on the beach or on stilts over the lagoon. A unique feature of this property is the main building which, like many of the bungalows, is situated over the lagoon and has a bar, lounge area, boutiques and an excellent restaurant.

The resort offers an array of water sports and excursions to explore the interior of the islands.

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Aerial view of Taha’a

Raiatea & Taha’a The second largest of the Society Islands, Raiatea is at the heart of the indigenous culture. It is thought the island was the main stop for the earliest of the region’s settlers and today has a fascinating wealth of history and legend. Raiatea is most often visited as the gateway to its smaller sister island, Taha’a, which shares the same lagoon. However, it also boasts beautiful landscapes with mountainous peaks and some good beaches as well as the only navigable river in French Polynesia which passes over numerous stunning waterfalls. The island also has great surf spots, excellent diving and sailing, and is home to several luxury yacht charters.

Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa

Vahine Island Resort

Vahine Island Resort This tiny private island resort offers the feeling of complete isolation whilst still providing all the comforts of an idyllic stay. The nine bungalows are dotted around the edge of the sandy motu (little coral island) while in the centre, tall palms shade the grassy interior. The bungalows are traditional in style with king size beds, mosquito nets and fans, and all have air conditioning. There is a small and intimate bar area with plenty of books and local information. Staff can help organise trips to Taha’a or Raiatea and kayaks, outriggers, windsurfers, boats and snorkelling equipment are all available for you to use.

Although the accommodation is relatively simple, Vahine Island Resort is truly unspoilt and offers a charming and unique island experience.

Man with traditional tatau, Raiatea

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Superbly located on the coral reef of Motu Tautau, this resort, an Audley favourite, faces the island of Taha’a on one side and Bora Bora on the other. This boutique retreat is great value and combines modern-day luxury with traditional Polynesian style. Its 12 spacious beach suites have their own patio and tropical garden, while the 45 stunning over-water suites have separate lounge areas and sun terraces. The three restaurants are set amongst the trees, and along with a dive school and spa, there is a wide range of activities and excursions on offer.

Getting here is easy, just 30 minutes by boat from Raiatea or 15 minutes by helicopter from Bora Bora.

Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa

Bora Bora

Tiare flower

Local woman, Bora Bora

InterContinental Resort & Thalasso Spa, Bora Bora

Pearl Beach Resort, Bora Bora

Bora Bora This dreamy island with sandy beaches set against the backdrop of Mount Otemanu is known as the ‘pearl of Polynesia’ and is just a 45 minute flight from Papeete in Tahiti. The charm of Bora Bora is legendary and inspired some of the world’s most famous writers, painters, philosophers and pleasure-seekers. Today the island plays host to the finest Pacific cuisine, yachts, art galleries, jewellery shops shimmering with black pearls, and a selection of luxurious hotels offering sophisticated facilities. Its most treasured feature however, is its beautiful translucent lagoon which is ringed by tropical islets and is popular for diving and water sports.

Pearl Beach Resort, Bora Bora

InterContinental Resort & Thalasso Spa, Bora Bora

The elegant Pearl Beach Resort is located on Motu Tevairoa, one of the white-sand islets surrounding the Bora Bora lagoon. The 80 Polynesian-style bungalows are all air-conditioned and are either secluded in the tropical gardens, perched along the beachfront or set over the lagoon itself with direct access to the water from a private deck. The resort offers three restaurants and a bar, with superb views back across the lagoon to the peaks of Mount Otemanu and a wealth of activities and excursions. With regular shuttles available to the main island you can choose to do as much or as little as you like in this tiny island paradise.

Offering the ultimate in Polynesian luxury and contemporary style, the InterContinental Resort & Thalasso Spa has a selection of 90 fabulous over-water villas and four suites, each with stunning views of the beach, the mountains or the lagoon. Superbly appointed and very spacious, the villas have a separate living room, bedroom, bathroom, dressing room, shaded terrace and bathing deck. There is an infinity pool, tennis court, dive centre and several bars and restaurants, as well as the Thalasso Spa. Located on Motu Piti Aau and looking back over the dramatic peaks of Mount Otemanu, the resort benefits from a beautiful and utterly tranquil location.

Le Maitai Polynesia, Bora Bora Le Maitai is a small, intimate resort located on Matira Point, which has the best beaches on the island. It looks over a stunning lagoon and is flanked by the impressive dormant volcanic peak of the island which is covered in dense rainforest.

The resort has 74 rooms, including luxurious over-water bungalows and well-appointed, air-conditioned rooms. There are two lovely restaurants and two bars, and you can take advantage of a number of excursions including a day-long tour of the island complete with picnic.

Le Maitai Polynesia, Bora Bora

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Fatu Hiva, Marquesas Islands

Tikehau Pearl Beach Resort, Tikehau This stylish and secluded hideaway is set on a beautiful beach on a small atoll. There are just 37 Polynesian-style bungalows, 13 beachfront rooms set among the swaying palms and featuring outdoor bathrooms, and 24 over-water bungalows and suites with glass-bottomed coffee tables enabling you to view the lagoon’s underwater life from your armchair. Life is centred around the sea with snorkelling, canoe trips, fishing, scuba diving and sunset cruises filling each day. There is an excellent open-air restaurant and a bar by the shimmering infinity pool.

Rangiroa atoll, Tuamotu Islands

Tuamotu Islands The Tuamotu Islands form the largest of the Polynesian archipelagos and include over 76 islands and atolls extending over more than 20,000 square kilometres. Home to a mere 12,500 people, the islands lay undiscovered for many years but are now opening up to visitors.

They provide a wonderfully fresh experience for those seeking a different side to Pacific island life.

Scarcely influenced by the modern world, the islands are largely undeveloped except for small communities of picturesque whitewashed houses decorated with shell art, and a series of pearl farms that remain the mainstay of the region.

Tikehau Pearl Beach Resort, Tikehau

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Paul Gauguin No artist is more indelibly tied to the South Pacific, and to French Polynesia in particular, than 19 th-century French painter Paul Gauguin. Gauguin left Paris to travel to the South Pacific in 1891 citing a need to live a simple life away from civilisation. During his time there he sided with native islanders and frequently clashed with colonial authorities and the local Catholic church. His colourful work reflected an obsession with his exotic adopted home and his well-known paintings of Polynesian women can be found in museums across the world. Gauguin is buried at Calvary Cemetery (Cimetière Calvaire), Atuona, Hiva Oa in the Marquesas Islands.

Somosomo Strait, Fiji The strait of ocean that separates Taveuni and Vanua Levu in the north of Fiji is regarded as one of the best diving locations in the world.

With excellent visibility and warm waters, the strait is particularly famed for the abundance of soft colourful coral. The nutrient-rich waters attract a great variety of pelagic species and here schooling fish meet sharks, barracudas, manta rays and huge groupers.

Diving The South Pacific rightly enjoys a reputation as being amongst the very best destinations in the world for scuba diving. There’s a wealth of exotic marine life here including turtles, sharks, rays and even whales, and a stunning seascape populated by coral formations, colourful reef walls and numerous wrecks. With such a vast range of underwater sites we would recommend taking the plunge at least once. The water temperature rarely drops below 26C (79F) and the visibility is generally very good. With such favourable conditions there are few better places to take scuba lessons and you can qualify as a PADI certified diver in a few days, which allows you to take on more advanced dives. Dive centres operate at most hotels and resorts across the region and cater for the novice through to the most experienced diver.

Here is a selection of our favourite South Pacific dive sites. Each one is very accessible and we can provide information on which site is suitable based on your experience.

Beqa Lagoon, Fiji Close to Viti Levu, the calm waters of Beqa Lagoon are a renowned dive site and well-suited to all standards of diver.

Corals in Somosomo Strait off Taveuni, Fiji

Surrounded by 300 kilometres of coral, the lagoon is one of the world’s largest barrier reefs and home to a wealth of marine life. Blue ribbon eels, triggerfish, lion fish, leaf scorpions, octopuses and sharks can all be spotted along with vivid anthias and sea turtles.

Tapu, French Polynesia Tapu, on the edge of the Bora Bora lagoon, is one of the most famous dive sites in French Polynesia. Although reasonably shallow, several dramatic coral formations harbour a multitude of life. Bright schools of parrotfish, angelfish and butterflyfish of different varieties dance across the coral whilst caves and craters hide turtles and eels. Blacktip reef sharks and graceful lemon sharks are also a common sight.

Humphead wrasse off Tapu, French Polynesia

Marquesas Islands Over the years the verdant Marquesas, three hours by air from Tahiti, have been an escape for artists, writers and adventurers. Travel here and you will quickly understand why. Unprotected by barrier reefs, the Marquesas Islands are altogether different from their neighbours with dramatic coastlines of cliffs, rock needles and giant volcanic amphitheatres all created by the relentless Pacific surf. The interiors are intensely beautiful with jungle-clad peaks, herds of goats and horses running wild and trees laden with tropical fruit. There are several distinct groups of islands each with its own particular charm and distinctive character. Fiercely proud of their Marquesan culture, the friendly islanders offer a genuine welcome to the small numbers of visitors who come here.

Keikahanui Pearl Resort, Nuku Hiva

Virgin Bay, Fatu Hiva

Keikahanui Pearl Resort, Nuku Hiva Located 50 steps above a quiet, black-sand beach, this wonderful small lodge is set in luscious tropical gardens overlooking the bay and village of Taiohae in the Marquesas. The 20 spacious, air-conditioned guest bungalows are built from local materials and are individually decorated by local artists. Each offers mesmerising views from the verandas, while the restaurant opens onto the terrace and swimming pool. Guests can take advantage of the superb local diving and explore the island with a Marquesan guide who will introduce and explain the archaeological sites and natural wonders of the region.

Tikis, Nuku Hiva

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To Sua ocean trench, Upolu

Samoa

Upolu & Apia

Submit to the languid charm of Samoa and you may never, ever want to leave. Another enthralling combination of blinding white beaches, lush vegetation, extinct volcanic craters and plunging waterfalls, Samoa is spectacularly beautiful and a fascinating place to explore Polynesian history and culture. Traditional customs and values are particularly strong here and visitors are warmly welcomed to engage in special events and celebrations. ‘Easy-going, merry and leisure-loving’ is how Robert Louis Stevenson described the locals in the 19 th century, and not much has changed since. Time seems to pass more slowly here and it is a great place to just sit back and take stock. The two principal islands of Upolu and Savai’i are scattered with areas of tremendous natural beauty from dramatic mountains and pristine beaches to stunning sea cliffs, idyllic swimming holes and striking lava flows just waiting to be explored.

Upolu is Samoa’s second largest and most populated island, home to the bustling but laid-back capital of Apia. The gentle coastal road winds around glorious bays and beaches to sleepy little villages each of which is structured around a village church and central malae, or green, making the communal way of life easy to observe.

The north coast is rocky and wild, while the south coast offers a series of white-sand beaches.

Inland, the mountainous interior shelters tumbling falls and incredible tropical vegetation.

Renting a car and exploring the island is a great way to discover its charms. Driving the Cross Island Road reveals many of Upolu’s highlights including Villa Vailima, Robert Louis Stevenson’s former home just south of Apia, Papapapai Tai Falls, a spectacular cascade plunging 150 metres, and O Le Pupu-Pu’e National Park with its glorious hiking trails and lava tubes. You can also visit Mount Vaea, the burial place of Robert Louis Stevenson, as well as one of only seven Baha’i temples in the world.

Sinalei Reef Resort, Upolu

Sinalei Reef Resort, Upolu The island’s foremost resort, Sinalei Reef Resort offers 29 stylish villas. Complemented by lush gardens, a simply styled over-water restaurant serving high quality cuisine, white-sand beaches and a refreshing swimming pool, the resort offers impeccable service and every comfort you could imagine. The water sports centre offers diving, snorkelling and surfing while there are also tennis courts and numerous local excursions available.

Along the south coast waterfalls and natural swimming holes are the main draw, along with the stunning Lalomanu Beach. Apia itself is also well worth exploring and the food and craft markets are great places to people-watch or pick up local delicacies.

Lalomanu Beach, Upolu

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Collecting coconuts, Samoa

Faiaai Beach, Savai’i Island

Church in Apia, Upolu

Musician, Samoa

Pareo seller, Savai’i

Savai’i Larger than Upolu, Savai’i has a remote and slightly wild feel about it. The coastline boasts some superb beaches, but not all are protected by reefs so in places the waters can be quite fierce. The volcanic interior provides a stunning backdrop and the harsh scars of relatively recent volcanic eruptions slash through the lush greenery down to the blue Pacific Ocean. There are many places of interest to visit, including lava tubes (volcanic caves formed by lava flows), blowholes and tracts of untouched forest making Savai’i far more than just a beach destination.

Le Lagoto, Savai’i

Le Lagoto, Savai’i Le Lagoto means sunset, an apt name for this well-located resort. Set on a stunning white-sand beach, this small and intimate property houses just ten spacious, tastefully decorated bungalows and two family rooms all with air conditioning and private deck areas with hammocks. The excellent restaurant serves a good range of dishes with an emphasis on local fish and seafood, and simpler snacks are available from the pool bar. The pool itself looks out over the beautiful lagoon and you can snorkel directly from the beach.

Seabreeze, Upolu

Seabreeze, Upolu Seabreeze is a beautiful, small property located on the picturesque southern coast of Upolu.

With just 11 rooms, it is a great spot to enjoy the peace and tranquillity of this secluded location.

The resort is nestled into a dramatic cove enclosed by steep hills and the protected waters make for great snorkelling and kayaking, while keen surfers will find the breakers are only a short swim away. The excellent restaurant is perched on the edge of the rocks making it a great spot for a sundowner and some wonderful local cuisine. It is a short drive to the stunning Lalomanu beach or across the island to Apia.

Aerial view of Falealupo coast, Savai’i

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Taveuni

Mamanuca Islands

Nadi Viti Levu

Fiji Uncovered Aerial view of Bora Bora

Tailoring your trip The itineraries shown are designed to give you a flavour of what is possible, and are routes that work particularly well. We can use these as a basis to plan your trip or can design a completely different itinerary to suit your tastes and interests. Please call one of our South Pacific specialists to start planning your itinerary.

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Getting around Although you may wish to stay close to the beach or pool, if you intend to travel around the South Pacific getting around can be an adventure in itself and often involves several different modes of transport to reach more remote corners. It takes just 50 minutes to drive around Rarotonga in the Cook Islands, whilst the Cooks’ outer islands are reached by regular flights. An excellent flight network connects the major islands of each archipelago in French Polynesia and Fiji, so most island-hopping is done by plane, although many resorts can only be reached by boat, usually a short trip across a calm lagoon.

Flight connections to Samoa are more limited, however travelling around in Samoa is relatively easy and a regular ferry connects the two main islands. We can also arrange private yacht charters or small-group sailing adventures and comfortable cruises in many locations.

International flights into the South Pacific often originate in Los Angeles or Auckland with a number of flights from Sydney as well, making it easy to stop in a different country and extend your trip.

When to go Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

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3

3

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

33 33 33 33 33

3

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33 The best time to travel.

3 A good time to travel, but there may be some factors to be aware of.

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Travel is possible, but this is not the best time of year.

The climate across the islands of the South Pacific is largely similar with no major seasonal difference in temperature but a distinct rainy and dry season. The best time to visit is between May and November when conditions are dry, warm and sunny, the humidity levels are low and temperatures are above 30C (86F). The rainy season, when tropical cyclones can occur, spans December to April and is responsible for the lush verdant landscape. Both seasons are subject to trade winds which provide a pleasant morning breeze, but are often followed by tropical showers which are generally short-lived.

Time difference: GMT+12 hours for Fiji, GMT+14 hours for Samoa, GMT-10 hours for the Cook Islands and French Polynesia

Prices We offer trips to cater for a wide range of budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline prices for your trip to the South Pacific on our website, alternatively please call our specialists to discuss your plans.

Kayaking in Moorea, French Polynesia

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3

This itinerary is ideal for those wanting a little beach time but also the chance to learn a bit about the history and local culture of the Fijian people. Combining time on Viti Levu with relaxation in the Mamanuca Islands and exploration in the north, you’ll get more of a feel for the ‘real’ Fiji.

Day 1

Arrive in Nadi and transfer to your beachfront accommodation.

Day 2

Spend the day at leisure exploring Nadi town.

Day 3

You may want to visit the Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple, the largest Hindu temple outside India.

Day 4

Travel by boat to the Mamanuca Islands and relax at your island retreat.

Days 5-9 Swim, snorkel, visit tiny villages or simply relax on the beach – the choice is yours.

Day 10

Return to Nadi and fly north to Taveuni and then travel to your island resort.

Days 11-14 Dive, hike and immerse yourself in the culture of the north.

Day 15

Travel back to Viti Levu and board your onward flight.

Stay longer Add additional time to your trip by taking a flight on to Australia. There are regular flights into Sydney allowing you to spend a few days in this fantastic harbour city.

Suggested itineraries Aitutaki Bora Bora Huahine

Savai’i Moorea Apia

Papeete From Auckland

Upolu

Tahiti Rarotonga To Auckland

Classic Cook Islands This itinerary encompasses the two main islands of the Cook Islands archipelago. You will start in Rarotonga, which is the main hub for the Cooks and therefore a great place to learn about the local culture and traditional way of life. You will then move on to Aitutaki, which epitomises the iconic paradise island getaway, complete with clear blue lagoon waters, white sandy beaches and an array of marine life.

Day 1

Arrive in Rarotonga and transfer to your beachfront accommodation.

Day 2

Relax and take in the beautiful surroundings.

Day 3

Snorkel, swim or laze on the beach.

Day 4

Hop on one of the local buses to explore the island.

Day 5

Day 6 Day 7

Day 8

Day 9

Visit the Te Punanga Nui market or take a cross-island walk with a local guide.

Another day at leisure to enjoy this idyllic location.

Enjoy the 40 minute scenic flight to Aitutaki and transfer to your accommodation.

Spend the day wandering along the beach or listening to the waves from your veranda.

Join a cruise out onto the lagoon where you will find a beautiful array of marine life.

Days 10-11 Take to the water for some snorkelling or relax on the beach.

Day 12

Day 13

Enjoy a final meal and cocktail whilst watching a stunning Cook Island sunset.

Transfer back to Rarotonga for your onward flight.

French Polynesia Uncovered This itinerary is ideal for those wishing to explore the Society Islands of French Polynesia and incorporates a mixture of history, culture, beach and relaxation. Starting in Tahiti you will fly to Huahine to see some of the most extensive archaeological remains in French Polynesia. From here travel to Moorea to explore verdant forests and fruit plantations, or take a 4x4 trip into the mountains. The trip ends in Bora Bora where you can swim in the turquoise lagoons and snorkel with sharks and rays.

Taste of Samoa This itinerary is designed for those interested in history and local culture but also looking for a chance to relax on the beach. Starting with a couple of days in Auckland before heading to Samoa, you will visit both Upolu and Savai’i with some time at local sites of interest, before a few days on a quiet beach.

Day 1

Arrive in Auckland, New Zealand, and transfer to your accommodation near the harbour.

Day 2

Spend the day exploring Auckland.

Day 3

Catch your flight to Samoa. Arrive in Upolu. Use the rest of the day to explore the markets of the capital Apia.

Day 4

Drive to Villa Vailima and on to the Baha’i temple before cooling off at the Papapapai Tai waterfall.

Day 5

Explore the eastern end of Upolu and some of the soft white beaches.

Day 6

Catch a ferry to Savai’i and head north stopping at tiny villages along the way.

Day 7

Travel along the coast road stopping to see lava flows. Attend a church service for an insight into local life.

Day 8

Explore the dramatic blowholes along the southern coast.

Day 1

Arrive in Tahiti and transfer to your accommodation then spend time relaxing or exploring.

Day 2

Transfer back to the airport for your flight to Huahine.

Day 3

Explore the archaeological sites of Huahine.

Day 4

Enjoy the beach and lagoon, swimming, snorkelling or sunbathing.

Day 5

Transfer back to the airport for your flight to Moorea.

Day 6

Relax and enjoy your beachfront setting.

Day 7

Join a 4x4 tour of the island.

Day 8

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Bora Bora.

Day 9

Take to the water and explore the beautiful turquoise lagoon.

Days 9-11 Return to Upolu and check into your beach accommodation. Spend the next few days relaxing.

Day 10

Enjoy a trip on a glass-bottomed boat or snorkel amongst the coral.

Day 12

Depart Upolu on a flight back to Auckland.

Day 11

Fly back to Tahiti for your onward flight.

Day 13

Return to the airport for your onward flight.

Stay longer Any part of this itinerary can be extended allowing you more time on each of the islands.

Alternatively you could add a few nights on nearby Raiatea or Taha’a, staying on a tiny atoll for a real castaway experience.

Stay longer This trip could easily be extended by adding more time in New Zealand to discover both the North and South Islands. Alternatively you could extend your time in the South Pacific with a visit to Fiji.

www.audleytravel.com/southpacific • 01993 838 830 • The South Pacific

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Getting there N

ew Zealand and the South Pacific lie about as far away from the UK as it is possible to get so almost all trips will necessitate a long flight. There are many ways to make this journey a pleasant part of your trip including stopping off to discover another interesting destination on your way.

There is very little difference in actual flying time whether you choose to travel westbound, eastbound or, indeed to travel around the world. Here are our recommendations for the most popular places to stop en route.

USA

4x4 trip in the desert, Dubai

Hollywood sign, Los Angeles

The most popular stop for travellers flying westwards is Los Angeles which provides a good starting point for exploring some of the USA’s national parks and Hawaii. The city itself is a non-stop, hedonistic playground with fantastic weather, miles of great beaches, excellent shopping and plenty of iconic sights familiar from film and television. Don’t miss smart Beverly Hills or Malibu, glitzy West Hollywood or the beaches of Santa Monica. Other options in California include the waterfront city of San Francisco, the stunning coastal drive between San Francisco and Los Angeles, Lake Tahoe, the vineyards of the Napa Valley and iconic national parks such as Yosemite, Sequoia and Death Valley.

The Far East The intoxicating cities of the Far East offer an exciting and exotic opportunity to break your journey. The principal cities are Bangkok, Hong Kong, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, and all are very different in character. You may wish to explore ancient temples, visit fascinating street markets, experience the aromas and tastes of exotic cuisines or simply relax on a palm-fringed beach. It is easy to add a connecting flight from many of these cities to visit either remoter regions and islands, or countries such as Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos or Burma.

Australia Australia’s great eastern cities of Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Cairns are a relatively short flight away from New Zealand and open up many opportunities for exploring this wonderful country. You may wish to take a few days to explore Sydney with its Opera House and Harbour Bridge, go wine tasting in Melbourne, or perhaps go snorkelling or diving on the Great Barrier Reef. Of course this enormous country offers many other possibilities too, including the Red Centre around Uluru/Ayers Rock and Alice Springs, the beautiful west coast city of Perth, the vineyards of the Margaret River or Barossa Valley or the amazing rock formations in the Northern Territory.

The Middle East Many flights route through the United Arab Emirates with stops in Dubai, which offers a hot, dry and sunny year-round climate, superb beaches and tax-free shopping in gleaming, modern, air-conditioned shopping malls. In addition, exciting 4x4 trips into the desert, excellent golf courses and trips that uncover the region’s ancient history are also available.

Alternatively, you may wish to soak up the atmosphere in the silk and spice souks or haggle for carpets and leather goods at the markets.

Vegetable seller at Can Tho floating market, Vietnam

Detail of the Grand Palace, Bangkok

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Sydney Harbour Bridge, Australia

Useful information Responsible travel We care deeply about the places we travel to, and we work hard to ensure your visit has a positive effect. We seek out experiences and places to stay which mirror our passion, and invariably we find that these are the most rewarding.

Hiker in Fiordland National Park, South Island, New Zealand

Contact us

Flights

Address:

If you are travelling to New Zealand and the South Pacific via Singapore or Hong Kong then Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific are popular options. Alternatively, Thai and Malaysia airlines offer competitive fares via Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. Air New Zealand has more flexible routings in combination with their airline partners. Emirates is the Middle East option, with one of the world’s longest non-stop flights from Dubai to Auckland, with connections to a number of UK airports.

Audley Travel, New Mill, New Mill Lane, Witney, Oxfordshire OX29 9SX, United Kingdom.

Telephone: 01993 838 800 Email: newzealand@audleytravel.com London Office: Audley Travel, Monsoon Building, 1 Nicholas Road, London W11 4AN, United Kingdom.

Honeymoons The South Pacific islands are iconic honeymoon destinations, offering powder-soft beaches, exotic swaying palm trees and sparkling atoll lagoons that for many make the archetypal honeymoon destination. New Zealand, on the other hand, can offer a little bit of everything.

Whether you are looking for relaxation on a pristine beach, exploring the country’s spectacular mountain scenery or taking part in a wide variety of activities.

When you arrange your honeymoon with Audley you can also use our Honeymoon Gift Service. This provides you with your own website, which your friends and family can visit to contribute towards the cost of your honeymoon.

The South Pacific islands are best reached via the USA. From Los Angeles Air Tahiti Nui offers flights to French Polynesia, Fiji Airways flies daily to Fiji, and there is a weekly flight to the Cook Islands. Alternatively, the islands can be reached from New Zealand. Our specialists will discuss the options with you and make recommendations to best suit you.

AITO Membership Audley is a member of the Association of Independent Tour Operators. The association represents Britain’s leading independent tour operators and encourages high standards of quality and service. Audley abides by the Association’s Code of Conduct and adheres to the AITO Quality Charter which can be viewed on www.aito.com

Wherever we can, we use local people and businesses as our partners in destinations.

Not only do we feel this gives you the best experience, it also brings benefits to local communities. The benefit also spreads further.

Local people are motivated to preserve what attracts visitors, be it the culture, wildlife or environment. Conversely, we actively avoid ‘tourist traps’. The carbon footprint of flying is relatively large and we’d encourage you to carbon offset your flights.

Terms & Conditions and Travel Insurance Your booking is subject to the terms and conditions of Audley Travel which are detailed in the booking form. It is vital that you have adequate travel insurance and we are able to suggest a number of policies either for the duration of your trip or on an annual basis.

Photography in this brochure We would like to thank the following photographers and organisations for the images used in this brochure: Alamy, Audley staff, clients and suppliers, AWL images, iStockphoto, Paul Gauguin [Public domain] via Wikimedia Commons, Robert Harding, Steve Allen, Superstock, Tourist Boards.

All images used in this brochure were obtained in good faith by Audley Travel Group Limited and in the belief that all necessary consents and clearances were obtained for their use. For any queries relating to photography please contact us on 01993 838 040.

Visit our offices

www.audleytravel.com

If you would like to discuss your travel arrangements in person we welcome personal visits, please call in advance to arrange an appointment with one or more of our country specialists. Our offices are at the New Mill, a 17th-century converted wool mill on the outskirts of Witney, ten miles west of Oxford, on the edge of the Cotswolds.

We also have an office in west London, if this is more convenient for you.

Our website is packed with information, features and advice covering all our destinations across the globe. On the site you can browse by theme, interest or region as well as viewing additional accommodation options and itineraries that are not featured in this brochure. You can request all our brochures online or contact us via the website where there is the option to tell us about your plans so that we can start tailoring your itinerary.

www.audleytravel.com/visit-us

Useful information

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New Mill, New Mill Lane, Witney, Oxfordshire OX29 9SX, United Kingdom Telephone: 01993 838 800 • Fax: 01993 838 010 Email: newzealand@audleytravel.com • Website: www.audleytravel.com

This brochure has been printed on paper from well managed forests, approved by the Forest Stewardship Council,® using vegetable inks. Our printer holds ISO 14001 and FSC® environmental certifications. Should you wish to dispose of your brochure, we kindly request that you recycle it. The paper used in this brochure has also been carbon balanced.