Matching stunning surrounds, fantastic outdoor pursuits, comfort and hospitality, with cuisine based on the freshest local produce and finest regional wines the "Inspiring New Zealand - a route less traveled" itinerary will take you to areas in New Zealand not normally included on self-drive itineraries. From the untouched Great Barrier Island, the Farm at Cape Kidnappers in Hawkes Bay to the capital city of Wellington, stunning scenery of Abel Tasman National Park and on to the adventure capital of New Zealand - Queenstown - your itinerary will provide incredible diversity across the North & South Islands. Enjoy unique lodging experiences all offering ultimate comfort & genuine Kiwi hospitality.

Package Inclusions:
* Round trip air from Los Angeles/San Francisco
* Internal New Zealand air
* 7 Days Medium automatic car rental
* Inter-islander ferry Wellington - Picton in lounge
*11 nights accommodation: Great Barrier Island x2, Hawkes Bay x2, Martinborough x1, Wellington x1, Motueka x2 and Queenstown x 3
** Breakfast x6, Dinner x4 **

Day 1 - Depart US

Day 2 - Cross International Date Line

Days 3 - Arrive Auckland connect to Great Barrier Island
Arrive in Auckland where you will be met and transferred to the domestic terminal to connect with your 30 minute light aircraft flight to Great Barrier Island– one of the North Island’s best kept wilderness secrets.

Spend the next 2 nights at Earthsong Lodge. (Breakfast & Dinner Included.)

Day 4 - Great Barrier Island
Great Barrier Island's rugged landscape, breathtaking views and unspoiled white sandy beaches offer a world that can soothe the spirit and challenge the adventurous. Much of Great Barrier Island, located in Auckland's Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, is a treasured sanctuary for many native plants and wildlife species. The unique location of Earthsong Lodge enables guests interested in ecology to easily explore the habitat of some of New Zealand's rarest and endangered wildlife.

"We were picked up in Great Barrier Island by Trevor, the owner of Earthsong Lodge, he gave us a little tour as we drove to the lodge, you have to use 4 wheel drive to get back to the lodge and it is breathtaking when you arrive. Trevor and Carol are wonderful hosts. Trevor is a chef and we had our own private chef the first night and breakfast the next morning then a couple joined us the 2nd night. The accommodations are gorgeous and the views are breathtaking. The hospitality is wonderful. Trevor gave us a written list of things we might want to see and directions to them all. We went down the list of 18 things and did every one of them and loved it so much. We think that Great Barrier Island was the prettiest place."

Days 5 & 6 - Hawkes Bay
Return to Aucklandand board your flight to Napier. On arrival, collect a hire car and make your way to The Farm At Cape Kidnappers, New Zealand’s newest luxury lodge located in Hawkes Bay. Breakfast & Dinner Included.

The Farm at Cape Kidnappersis set on a 6,000 acre sheep and cattle farm which encompasses land reminiscent ofMontanabut plunges 800 feet straight into the sea. Comfort and ease are at a premium with each room taking on a character of its own while harkening back to the rural feeling of theNew Zealandsheep station and wine country.

Over your two days at the lodge take a tour of the working sheep & cattle farm, enjoy the many walking tracks that surround the property, the largest mainland Gannet colony in the world or the par 71 championship golf course that will challenge every skill level.

Day 7 - Martinborough & Wairarapa
 Head south for 3 hours today to historic Martinborough, where you will enjoy 1 night at the colonial-style Peppers Martinborough.

Napier to Hastings 20 km (13 miles) Approximately .75 hour   Hastings was devastated by a huge earthquake in 1931. As a result, the city has a great deal of remarkable Art Deco and Spanish Mission-style architecture. Fabulous parks and delicious ice cream are two other reasons to visit Hastings. In the apple and pear season, there’s no better place to be – Hastings is New Zealand’s leading pipfruit region.

Hastings to Masterton 216 km (135 miles) Approximately 2.75 hours   The major entertainment on the road from Taupo to Napier is the fantastic scenery. There’s a bit of everything - rugged hills, beautiful valleys, gentle plains and huge vistas. At Tarawera you can walk to the hot springs, which are above the Waipunga River. You might also want to stop at the Waiarua Falls lookout, to view the twin waterfalls. The town of Eskdale heralds your arrival in Napier. In 1931 a devastating earthquake nearly levelled this city. It was rebuilt in the style of the times, and is now considered the Art Deco Capital of the world. The vineyards of Hawke’s Bay are all within easy reach of Napier. Another attraction is the gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers.

Masterton to Martinborough 45 km (28 miles) Approximately .75 hour Enjoy the clean, green scenery as you drive north through the friendly townships of the Wairarapa. In Featherston you’ll find an interesting locomotive museum. Greytown has many beautiful examples of Victorian architecture and a quaint museum – take yourself on a self-guided walk. Carterton is a good place to shop for paua shell souvenirs – it’s also a place to enjoy daffodils in the spring. In recent years, Martinborough has become the gourmet capital of the lower North Island. It is home to over 25 boutique vineyards, several fabulous restaurants and a number of upmarket bed and breakfast establishments. From the charming town square, you can walk to most of the local attractions.

Day 8 - Wairarapa - Wellington
Continue south to Wellington taking the spectacular coastal drive via Cape Palliser(Cape Palliser Seal Colony - the largest breeding ground for fur seals in the North Island) . The contemporary Museum Hotel provides your accommodation for this evening.  

Martinborough to Wellington 79 km (49 miles) Approximately 1.25 hour The drive to Wellington wind throughs the picturesque Hutt Valley before climbing over the Rimutaka Range and descending into the tranquility of the Wairarapa region. If you don’t want to drive, a scenic train trip runs from Wellington to Featherston. Wellington is compact, cultured and full of character. Nestled between the harbour and the hills, the downtown area is ideal for explorations on foot. Enjoy cafes, restaurants, museums and all kinds of shops. Dance, theatre and musical performances are a Wellington specialty. As New Zealand’s capital, this city is rich in political history.

This afternoon visit Te Papa Museum of New Zealand. In Te Papa you’ll find stories ofNew Zealand’s indigenous people, the Maori, as well as information on the country’s geology and natural environment. Te Papa is a showcase ofNew Zealand’s treasures and reveals the stories of the nation.

Day 9 - Wellington - Picton
Self drive to Wellington Ferry Terminal then board ferry to Picton.

Wellington to Picton 8 km (61 miles) Approximately 3 hours The passage across Cook Strait and through the Marlborough Sounds is one of the most scenic ferry trips in the world. The fast ferry makes the trip in just over 2 hours, the cruise-style ferry takes 3 hours. Both types of vessel can transport vehicles. Highlights along the way include the Red Rocks seal colony, Tory Channel, Cook’s Lookout and the beautiful coves of the sounds. The picturesque seaside town of Picton is the South Island base for the ferry service that links the North and South islands of New Zealand. It’s also the gateway to the marine, forest and island attractions of the Marlborough Sounds. Museums and interesting walks will keep you entertained while you’re here.

Picton to Nelson 145 km (91 miles) Approximately 1.75 hours The drive to Nelson first takes you to the town of Havelock, which is known as the Green Shell Mussel Capital of the World. Nearby Canvastown is a place to explore old gold mining fields – thousands tried to get rich here in the 1860s. At Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve you can enjoy a bush walk or a swim, depending on the time of the year. And if you’d like a glimpse of local life in 1890, Rai Valley has a beautifully preserved cottage museum. The city of Nelson is home to a fascinating community of beach, bush and art lovers. From here you can organise yourself an eco-adventure or become immersed in the local creative culture. Every year the city hosts the Montana New Zealand Wearable Art Awards, where art comes off the wall and onto the body.

Nelson to Motueka 49 km (31 miles) Approximately 0.75 hour The road to Motueka hugs the coast, which makes it easy to browse beaches as you go. The Waimea Inlet and the villages of Mapua and Ruby Bay are particularly irresistible. Art and pottery studios, vineyards and excellent cafes are other local distractions. In the horticultural town of Motueka you can indulge your love of fresh fruit and vegetables, and feed your imagination with local arts and crafts. Because it’s so close to the Abel Tasman National Park and the Kahurangi National Park, Motueka is an ideal place to plan and prepare for hiking adventures.

Let the birds come to you as you have a leisurely breakfast on the verandah then explore the bush tracks in our 50 acres of grounds and amble down to the magical source of the Riwaka River with a picnic. In the afternoon, take a dip in the pool, pamper yourself with a massage or relax in a hammock and enjoy a cold beer. Your hosts, Clare and Peter, are well travelled and passionate about the New Zealand outdoors. They offer friendly advice and will help you plan and book tomorrow's activities - from kayaking, walks and horse treks to art and wine trails. To round off a perfect day, soak in the spa under the stars. Ideal for couple. Arrive at your accommodation, The Resurgence, which is located on the doorstep of Abel Tasman and Kahurangi National Parks, this Nelson accommodation is nestled in 50 acres of bush close to the source of the Riwaka river.

The Deluxe and Superior Lodge Rooms are for those clients wanting the full hosted Boutique Lodge experience. These ensuite rooms are upstairs in the main Lodge building and include full cooked breakfasts, aperitifs at sunset and 4-course table d'hote dinner.

Day 10 - The Resurgence or Abel Tasman National Park Tour – Beach, Seals & Kayak
Relax at the Resurgance or meet your friendly, expert Wilson's Abel Tasman (formerly Abel Tasman Wilsons Experiences) guide who will give you full instructions on safe paddling techniques and settle you into a stable kayak. Then explore, have fun!  Paddling north, this relaxing trip explores the fascinating coves and natural features of the stunning Kaiteriteri coastline, including the famous "Split Apple Rock".  Stop on a golden beach for a short break before heading back to Kaiteriteri.  Return by 11.45am to swap kayak for walking shoes.  Farewell your guide and join the 12.15pm Water Taxi to the golden sands of Onetahuti, visiting the fascinating seal colony at Tonga Island on the way.   Disembark at 1.30pm and enjoy a 1 1/2 hour (unguided) walk to beautiful Bark Bay.  At Bark Bay rejoin the Water Taxi at 3.40pm for your return to Kaiteriteri.  Arrive back in Kaiteriteri where your coach awaits for your coach journey back to Motueka.  

Day 11 - Motueka to Nelson, Fly to Queenstown

Motueka to Nelson 145 km (92 miles) Approximately 1.75 hours The drive to Nelson first takes you to the town of Havelock, which is known as the Green Shell Mussel Capital of the World. Nearby Canvastown is a place to explore old gold mining fields – thousands tried to get rich here in the 1860s. At Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve you can enjoy a bush walk or a swim, depending on the time of the year. And if you’d like a glimpse of local life in 1890, Rai Valley has a beautifully preserved cottage museum..

Drop off rental vehicle and fly to Queenstown.

A 3 night stay at The Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel provides a perfect base to end to your New Zealand holiday.

Experience the sophistication of Queenstown Park Hotel, a haven of luxury accommodation for all seasons. A boutique hotel with a modern romantic style and exclusive service awaits.

Stay in designer luxury accommodation, close to Queenstown’s vibrant shopping, cafes and nightlife. Savour views of Queenstown’s mountains from every luxury suite. . Take time to enjoy the stunning scenery and try your hand at some of Queenstown's exhilarating activities

Day 12 & 13 - Queenstown 
Explore Queenstown at your leisure or consider adding one of our tour options - Some of our favorites:

	Milford Sound Nature Cruise An on board nature guide with specialist knowledge of the region's history, flora and fauna provides detailed interpretation in English with a roving microphone. There is plenty of time available to explore points of interest and view the spectacular alpine scenery including waterfalls, rainforest and the towering peaks; and keep a lookout for wildlife including seals, dolphins and penguins when in season. Coach or flight transfers available.
	Dart River Safari - Funyaks During your Funyaks full day experience you will experience NZ's most scenic jetboating experience and then float down river in their own inflatable kayak allowing plenty of time to explore the rivers hidden secrets. Enjoy a wilderness buffet lunch and exceptional guide interaction on this premium product. Funyaks is more suited towards visitors who are looking for a unique eco-experience - guests must have average fitness.
	Appellation Central Wine Tours Appellation Central offers guided tours showcasing Central Otago's fine wine and cuisine. These tours venture into the heartland of Central Otago visiting vineyards in Gibbston, Bannockburn and Cromwell. Small groups and custom fit minibuses ensure a relaxed and interactive day out from Queenstown and a great way to experience Central Otago.
	Queenstown Rafting Triple Challenge - Shotover Jet/Helicopter/WhiteWater Rafting  The Ultimate Adventure. Begin with the shotover jet, speed through rocky canyons and experience the Hamilton 360 spins. Climb aboard a helicopter for a spectacular flight into Skippers Canyon. Land at Deep Creek and meet your rafting guide, peaceful waters at first before hearing the roar of the"mother" section
	Nomad Safari - Skippers Canyon a half-day heritage tour that follows the rugged and once treacherous Skippers Road. Hacked by hand into the sheer cliff sides of the Shotover River Valley. Navigate this awe-inspiring canyon and visit many historic sites such as the Skippers Suspension Bridge, township of Skippers, and the restored school house - gain a real insight into the local heritage through photos and histories of life in this tough environment

For more Queenstown tour options and overnight cruise options on Milford and Doubtful Sound, see pages 154-156 of our e-brochure.

Day 14 - Depart for US
Drop your car off at the airport and board your flight to Auckland where you will connect with your international flight to the Los Angeles.

Upgrade to Premium Economy or Business Class Los Angeles - Auckland - Los Angeles.
Ask an Aspire Down Under consultant for our great value upgrades

Valid for departures until 31 Mar 2013. Prices are per person based on double occupancy for departures from Los Angeles. Add-on fares available from other cities. Seats are limited and may not be available on every flight. Hotels subject to availability. All prices reflect a 3% discount for purchases made by cash/check/wire transfer, please see terms and conditions for credit card payment. There are no discounts for payment made by credit cards. Cancellation penalties and other restrictions apply.

If you have any questions about this or any other of our New Zealand honeymoon packages, please contact us
at 877-7ASPIRE.