New Zealand and Fiji

This journey is built on contrasts that are palpable from the very first days. New Zealand is a land of powerful, pristine nature, where glaciers stand next to green valleys, and ocean coastlines give way to mountainous landscapes. This destination is for those seeking more than just beautiful views, but depth—culture, character, and genuine emotion. Here, Maori heritage, European traditions, and a modern pace of life blend, creating a unique atmosphere of openness and inner peace.

The final part of the route transports you to a completely different state—the Fiji Islands. This is no longer about movement, but about slowing down. Azure waters, white beaches, private villas, and a level of service where everything is tailored to you. Here, days are filled with simple yet rare sensations: the warm ocean, silence, sun, and a feeling of complete isolation from the world.

This route is not simply a combination of two destinations. It is a logically structured journey from rich impressions to a complete reset.

Day 1
On arrival at Queenstown International Airport, you will be met by a representative of Southern Crossings who will transfer you by private vehicle to your accommodation in Glenorchy (approximately a 1 hour journey along the scenic shores of Lake Wakatipu).

Accommodation for three nights in a King Chalet Suite including pre-dinner drinks, dinner and breakfast at:

• Blanket Bay

Day 2
Today, you will be met at your accommodation by your private helicopter to experience the full scope of unique natural environments found in Fiordland, a World Heritage listed national park.
Fly over the famous Milford Track, one of the world’s great wilderness walks, before arriving at Milford Sound, a 17 km long glacial fiord with extremely steep bedrock walls extending up to two thousand meters above sea level, and dropping to nearly 300 metres below sea level. The unique and dramatic geography of the area is truly astonishing, as is its flora and fauna. View Lake Quill, renowned for its vibrant turquoise colour, and the dramatic Sutherland Falls at its cliff edge, cascading 580 metres below. Be wowed by the lush rainforest naturally cultivated in this moisture-rich environment.

Your ‘ultimate’ excursion today includes four landings in diverse, pristine locations. Learn of the age-old glaciers and prehistoric rainforests in a habitat seldom frequented by man. Sip the pure waters of an alpine lake; take in the wonder of majestic Milford Sound; stroll along uninhabited, wild and beautiful west coast beaches bordered by coastal rain forest; and see the blue ice on glaciers high in the Alps when you make an alpine landing. At each landing site, the helicopter will shut down for you to enjoy the quiet sound of the mountains. Perhaps a curious kea, New Zealand’s native parrot, will drop in to say hello.

Pause at one of your remote and picturesque landing spots to savour a gourmet picnic lunch while taking in the marvellous views. Your picnic hamper includes delightful cheeses, cold meats, breads, salads and fruit accompanied by champagne and a selection of non-alcoholic beverages. A moment to remember, exclusive to you!

On conclusion of your excursion, you will be returned to your accommodation (approximately a 3 hour 30 minute duration).

Day 3
Today you will be met at Blanket Bay's jetty by your guide and private jet boat for your excursion on the Dart River.
Onboard your exclusive jet boat, head into the heart of Paradise and beyond, to experience a unique combination of breath-taking scenery and an exhilarating jet boat ride as you travel up the braided, glacier-fed rivers. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Dart River and Mount Aspiring National Park which form part of the Te Wahipounamu - South West New Zealand UNESCO World Heritage Area, while your guides give you their authentic touch, talking about the area’s rich history, the Greenstone Trail and countless Maori legends. During the excursion enjoy refreshments at the rivers edge, and if time and conditions permit, the guide will stop the boat so that you may enjoy a brief walk (approximately a 3 hour duration).
On conclusion, you will be met in Glenorchy by your private guide and vehicle to enjoy a half day hiking excursion on the 12 Mile to Bob's Cove Track (approximately 6.8 kilometres).

Begin with a short scenic drive along Lake Wakatipu to the start of the track. This scenic walk can be approached from two different starting points depending on level of fitness and your guide will discuss this with you upon collection. The 12 Mile to Bob's Cove track follows the shore of Lake Wakatipu, and throughout you will alternate between lake views and meandering through native bush. Budding geologists will delight in the ancient marine sediments found between Bob’s Cove – Picnic Point and Twelve Mile Creek. Fossils of oyster shells, other molluscs and algae can be found at Farry’s Beach. Keep an eye out for summer’s red rata flowers around the lakeshore, Pittosporum and the large white flowered native clematis in spring. A historic lime kiln remains from the 1800s, when the Wakatipu Lime Company quarried and processed Bobs Cove limestone. Once reaching the top of the track, the 360 degree views will leave you speechless, over Lake Wakatipu and across to the beautiful Remarkables mountain range. An easy hike for all fitness levels.

On conclusion, you will be returned to your accommodation later this afternoon (approximately a 4 to 5 hour duration).

Day 4
This morning, you will be met at your accommodation by your private driver and vehicle for your scenic transfer to Ahuriri Valley via the Mackenzie Country and the Lindis Pass.

Enroute enjoy a half day of wine touring in the Central Otago region - your local guide is an expert in this wine region and will get to know you and your personal wine tastes, tailoring your tour to suit, visiting some of the award winning cellar doors and arranging private tastings where possible. From the rugged landscape of the Gibbston Valley, to the warm banks of the Bannockburn region, and the scenic inclines of Bendigo, Central Otago, the world’s southernmost wine-producing region holds hidden gems around every corner. While known for Pinot Noir, the region showcases exceptional white varietals, and for each, there’s a number of delectable culinary experiences to try. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the wineries in Bannockburn which has been included today (approximately a 6 hour 30 minute duration).
Following your tour, continue with the scenic journey to your accommodation.

Accommodation for three nights in a King Master Suite including pre-dinner drinks and all meals at:

• Lindis Lodge

Day 5
This morning you will be met at your accommodation by your guide for a full day fly fishing experience on the local rivers (approximately an 8 hour duration). Your waders, fishing licenses and tackle have been included today. 

The Lindis is situated a short walking distance from the world famous Ahuriri River where guests can enjoy world class fishing in breath taking scenery. There is a diverse range of fishing options on offer, from small streams to high country lakes, tarns and rivers. Everyone from beginners to the most experienced anglers are catered to, and the lodge prides itself on offering a first class fishing experience on the internationally renowned river which has been rated top five in the world! The lodge is committed to preserving the fishery which is all wild stock, both rainbow and brown trout may be caught averaging from two kilograms to trophy size fish weighing in at over five kilograms.

Your private guide will meet you at the lodge and take you to a private spot in the valley to begin your night of star gazing. You will identify some of the closer and brighter stars, star clusters, Greek and Maori constellation as well as ancient techniques used for celestial navigation. 

Following this you'll be able to look through the telescope where you’ll take a closer look at some of the interesting deep sky objects and planets (approximately a 1 hour 30 minute to 2 hour duration).

Day 6
Today meet your guide at the stables for your guided trek. The Lindis is home to up to 14 horses at any one time, for treks across high country farm land with breath taking views of Ben Avon Station and the surrounding Ahuriri Valley.

Birch stream (beginner) Leaving from the stables, you will head down to our historic woolshed, taking in views of the Bean Avon dam. You will then trek down across Birch Stream - this involves a couple of river crossings and easy riding, before returning to the stables. This is a beginners ride (approximately a 1 hour duration).

On conclusion, you will arrive at the Black Diamond for your private dining experience. A long way off the beaten track is the Black Diamond, a purpose built, quintessentially The Lindis, private fine-dining experience. The options are numerous on how you make your way to this unique location, choose from a guided horse-trek, a self-guided or guided hike, or be escorted in a motor vehicle into the remote reaches of the Ahuriri Valley. Upon arrival at the Black Diamond, enjoy a glass of Louis Roederer Collection champagne, followed by your selected menu choice (options include a self-served platter through to a hosted and chef prepared multi-course lunch). The structure itself denotes a restrained beauty, with a singular peaked roof, sun drenched patio area, and full glass front, allowing uninterrupted views down the valley. The Black Diamond in skiing indicates challenge, adventure, and reward, and the Black Diamond Experience at The Lindis delivers exactly that, drenched in tranquil luxury.

Day 7
This morning, you will be met at your accommodation by your private driver and vehicle for your scenic transfer to Queenstown via the Mackenzie Country and the Lindis Pass (approximately a 2 hour 30 minute journey).

Fly Queenstown to Christchurch (cost not included)
On arrival at Christchurch Airport, you will be met by your private driver and vehicle and transferred to your accommodation (approximately a 40 minute journey).

Accommodation for two nights in a King Master Suite including pre-dinner drinks, dinner with wine pairing, breakfast at:

• Otahuna Lodge

Day 8
This morning, enjoy a private garden tour at Otahuna Lodge. Head Gardener Steve Marcham will take you on a guided tour and provide you with insight into the property’s rich history. You will visit many themed areas including the formal Dutch Garden, Great Lawn, and Woodland. You will also learn the processes involved with maintaining and supplying the gardens (approximately a 1 hour 30 minute duration).

While at leisure at Otahuna Lodge, we recommend the following optional local experiences:

• Nourish yourself with a massage at the on-site Woodland Massage Studio
• Take a picnic hamper and relax on Otahuna’s grounds or hike to scenic Canterbury locations nearby
• Take a walking, biking or e-biking tour across the Port Hills Summit Road for spectacular views over Lyttleton Harbour
• Embark on a guided fly-fishing tour to the rivers of Canterbury (October to April only)
• Take a day trip to the quaint town of Akaroa or the Waipara Valley wineries
• Excursions further afield can be arranged to see Arthur’s Pass National Park aboard the Tranz Alpine Train; to view the sperm whales and dolphins in Kaikoura; or soar above the glaciers at Aoraki Mount Cook
• Play on one of New Zealand’s finest golf courses, Clearwater, former home to the New Zealand Open
• Star gazing (or sun gazing) onsite at Otahuna

This afternoon, enjoy a hands on cooking lesson at Otahuna Lodge with executive chef Jimmy McIntyre. Culinary excellence is a cornerstone of the Otahuna experience with Jimmy providing an overview of the philosophies behind the Lodge’s celebrated food and wine programme. Classes incorporate a harvesting visit to Otahuna’s organic working gardens, provide an introduction to planning menus and offer a special chance to learn first-hand cooking techniques in their kitchens before tasting the results for yourself (approximately a 3 hour duration).

Day 9
This morning, you will be met at your accommodation by your private driver and vehicle and transferred to Christchurch Airport prior to your onward flight (approximately a 40 minute journey).
Fly Christchurch to Rotorua (cost not included)

On arrival at Rotorua Airport you will be met by your private driver and vehicle and transferred to your accommodation in Taupo with a stop at Wai-O-Tapu en route (approximately a 40 minute journey).

Today enjoy a privately guided visit to Wai-O-Tapu (Sacred Waters) New Zealand’s most colourful and diverse active volcanic area with dramatic geysers, mineral terraces, lakes, craters and bubbling mud pools. As you follow the trails you are introduced to a uniquely different natural landscape, the key to what you see lies below the surface, of one of the most extensive geothermal systems in New Zealand extending over 18 square kilometres (allow approximately 1 hour 30 minutes).
On conclusion, continue with your private driver and vehicle to Huka Lodge (approximately 40 minute journey).

Accommodation for three nights in a King Lodge Suite including pre-dinner drinks, dinner and breakfast at:

• Huka Lodge

Day 10
This morning you will be met at your accommodation by your private guide and vehicle for your hike through one of the Great Lake Trails along the edge of Lake Taupo, complemented by a refreshing cruise on the lake.

Travel to the cosy settlement of Kinloch, graced with spectacular views of Lake Taupo and the mountains of Tongariro National Park (approximately a 20 minute drive from Taupo). Set off on a nine kilometre hike (approximately a 2 hour 30 minute duration) through dense native bush with good shade cover. Look out for native birds, rewarewa trees and giant ferns. After an initial ascent to the Codger’s Rock Lookout, you will be rewarded with glorious views toward crescent-shaped Kawakawa Bay before descending toward it. (Please note, a reasonable level of fitness and agility is required for the hiking section of this tour, which includes undulating terrain).

Emerge from the bush at Kawakawa Bay to board your awaiting private launch. The relaxing atmosphere on board will be a welcome respite after the hike’s exertion! Venture onto Lake Taupo’s azure waters, visiting charming bays and inlets only accessible by boat. Enjoy a delicious lunch accompanied by wine and beer, which has been included today. Following lunch there is the opportunity to fish before visiting the remarkable Ngatoroirangi Mine Bay Maori rock carvings (approximately a 6 hour duration).

Following your excursion you will be met at Taupo Marina by a representative of the lodge will return you to your accommodation (approximately a 10 minute journey).

Day 11
This morning, you will be met at your accommodation by your private driver and vehicle and transferred to Wairakei Golf Course and Sanctuary (approximately a 20 minute journey).

On arrival, enjoy a round of golf at Wairakei Golf Course and Sanctuary. The course, set amongst the spectacular scenery of Lake Taupo, is a par 72 measuring 6,429 metres from the back tees. You will have the opportunity to enjoy the sanctuary component at Wairakei which is home to native foliage and wildlife including the special Kiwi and many other native birds. Green fees, club and cart hire have been included today.

Following your round of golf, you will be met by your private driver and vehicle who will return you to your accommodation (approximately a 20 minute journey).

Day 12
Today, you will be met at your accommodation by your private driver and vehicle for your scenic transfer to Auckland (approximately a 3 hour 30 minute journey).

Accommodation for one night in a King Harbour Suite including breakfast at:

• Park Hyatt Auckland

Day 13
Today, you will be met at your accommodation by your private driver and vehicle and transferred to Auckland International Airport prior to your onward flight (approximately a 45 minute journey). On arrival, you will be met kerbside by a representative of Southern Crossings who will assist with check in procedures and security clearance prior to your onward flight.

Fly Auckland to Nadi (cost not included)
Depart Auckland.

Day 14
On arrival at Nadi International Airport, you will be met airside by a representative of Southern Crossings who will assist with customs clearance and luggage collection, and escort you into the arrivals hall to meet the representative of Kokomo Private Island.

On arrival at Kokomo Private Island’s Hangar, you will be met by a private helicopter and transferred from Nadi to Kokomo Private Island (approximately a 45 minute journey).

Accommodation for three nights in a One Bedroom Sunset Villa including dinner, breakfast and lunch,non alcoholic drinks and all non motorised sports at:

• Kokomo Private Island

Day 15
This morning, you will be met at Kokomo's jetty by your private boat and marine biologist for your private full day Astrolabe Adventure tailored to suit your interest.

Enjoy as you come face-to-face with Manta Rays, the gentle giants of the Kadavu Passage, snorkel or dive in the Great Astrolabe Reef, or you may wish to drop anchor at an uninhabited private island and soak up the serenity.

Day 16
While at leisure on Kokomo Private Island we recommend the following activities:

• Snorkelling right off the beach
• Join a Marine Biologist on an education tour to learn how the resort is helping preserve coral in the coral gardens around the island
• Try your hand at deep sea fishing
• Water sports such as surfing, sailing, paddle boarding, kayaking, sea trampolining, paddle boarding and water skiing
• Beach sports such as volleyball, badminton and cricket
• Enjoy cocktails on a sunset cruise
• Explore the crystal clear waters aboard the glass bottom boat
• Head offshore to a nearby village to meet the locals
• Explore the resorts own farm and gardens on a culinary tour
• Make use of the fully equipped gym or tennis and basketball courts
• Enjoy a waterfall hike only accessible by boat
• Calm your mind with a yoga or pilates class
• Indulge in a traditional Fijian therapy or massage in the Yaukuve Spa Sanctuary
• Relax on your own private beach or sand cay with a picnic and cocktails

Day 17
At a prearranged time, you will be transferred by private helicopter from Kokomo Island Resort to Nadi Airport prior to your onward flight (approximately a 45 minute journey).

Depart Nadi.