A stylish South Island itinerary which is leisurely paced to ensure you enjoy the accommodation, the physical beauty, the actiivities and of course the food and wine. With boutique bed and breakfast accommodation in Motueka, Blenheim, Kaikoura and Queenstown you'll be able to relax or head off and seek adventure, perhaps sea kayaking, cycle the vineyards, swim with the dolphins or a scenic flight and cruise at Milford Sound

Package Inclusions:
* Economy Class air from Los Angeles
* Add-on airfares available from other cities
* 8 days car rental
* 13 nights deluxe boutique accommodation - 4 Nights at The Resurgence (Motueka), Two Nights at Old St. Mary's Convent (Blenheim), 2 Nights at The Hapuku Lodge (Kaikoura), 5 Nights at the Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel (Queenstown)
* Breakfast daily

Day 1 - Depart US

Day 2 - Cross International Date Line

Day 3 - Arrive Nelson
Collect your rental car to begin your self drive to Motueka.

Nelson to Motueka 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..

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.

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. 

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 4 - The Resurgence
Enjoy all the hotel has to offer at your leisure. 

Day 5 - Abel Tasman National Park Tour – Beach, Seals & Kayak
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 6 - The Resurgence 
Enjoy another day at the Resurgence at your leisure.

Day 7 - Motueka to Blenheim

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..

Nelson to Blenheim 115 km (72 miles) Approximately 1.5 hours The drive to Blenheim is both beautiful and interesting. Rai Valley has a delightful cottage museum, and at Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve you can enjoy a bush walk or a swim. Nearby Canvastown gives you the chance to explore old gold mining fields and thousands tried to get rich here in the 1860s. Havelock is the place for a seafood meal, known as the Green Shell Mussel Capital of the World. When you reach Renwick, which is surrounded by vineyards, it will be clear that you've arrived in wine country. Blenheim is the heart of wine-growing Marlborough. You'll find a pleasing selection of cafes, restaurants, pubs, shops and golf courses. Character accommodation is another Blenheim delight with everything from homestays to boutique hotels.

Arrive at your accommodation, Old St. Mary's Convent, A superior bed and breakfast accommodation which offers guests the chance to relax and unwind in a magnificent, fully restored, historic convent. Set in a stunning 60 acres of vineyards and gardens.  

Four Deluxe rooms and one Executive/Honeymoon suite. Each of the air-conditioned rooms has spectacular views of the surrounding hills, vineyards and/or gardens. All have their own ensuite with bath and separate shower and are non smoking. The Chapel Suite and Mother Superior Rooms also offer tea and coffee making facilities and a minibar. The rooms are very spacious and airy with easy access to the balcony. 

Day 8 - Blenheim 
Today explore Blenheim and the vineyards.

Day 9 - Blenheim to Kaikoura
129 km (81 miles) Approximately 1.75 hours

Blenheim to Kaikoura 129 km (81 miles) Approximately 1.75 hours State Highway 1 takes you through the coastal foothills, and then out into the picturesque Awatere Valley. In the township of Seddon you'll find authentic New Zealand crafts. The Lake Grassmere saltworks is an interesting stop - the ponds turn coral pink in late summer. After the small town of Ward, the road turns toward the awesome beauty of the Pacific Coast. Just north of the Ure River is a road that leads to the walking trails of the Sawcut Gorge. Kaikoura is a base for wildlife experiences of all kinds and also a great place to eat crayfish. A whale watch tour can take you to see Minke, Humpback and Southern Right whales mixing it with dolphins and orcas. You can also walk to see fur seal colonies and spy on big seabirds such as mollymawks, albatross and petrels.

Arrive at the Hapuku Lodge. This contemporary country lodge offers suites, luxury tree houses built in the canopy of a native Manuka grove, one spacious stand alone apartment, and multiple meeting and event venues. All rooms have bath and shower, tree houses and apartment have cooking facilities.Located 12kms north of the world renowned eco-marine town of Kaikoura, on New Zealand's South Island, the lodge shares the land with a deer stud and olive grove, nestled between the Kaikoura Seaward Mountain Range and famed Mangamaunu Bay. The lodge was built to give our guests a great night's sleep in one of the most beautiful places in the world. A sculpture garden and wilderness walk to a picnic terrace on Hapuku River are available for guests to enjoy.

Day 10 - Kaikoura – Dolphin Encounter 
Enjoy a tour that enables you to swim with the dusky dolphins in their natural habitat. A complete guided commentary is given throughout the trip. You will swim with the dolphins (wetsuits and snorkelling equipment will be provided) during the tour.Following your tour you will be returned to Kaikoura Township.

Day 11 - Kaikoura to Christchurch & flight to Queenstown
184 km (115 miles) Approximately 2.25 hours

Kaikoura to Christchurch 184 km (115 miles) Approximately 2.25 hours The trip south takes you along the edge of the rugged coastal ranges. From Cheviot you can detour to Gore Bay to see the fascinating cliff formations. The landscape becomes more gentle as you approach Waipara, a region known for its vineyards and olive groves. The last leg of your journey takes you past the surf beaches of Amberley, Leithfield, Waikuku and Woodend. The South Island's largest city, Christchurch is an entertaining mixture of refined lifestyle and cultural excitement. The tranquil Avon River meanders through the city, historic buildings house a lively arts community and restored trams make it easy to get around. Visit heritage sites, museums and art galleries, and enjoy the highly developed restaurant scene.

Return rental vehicle at Christchurch airport. Fly to Queenstown and on arrival make your way to accommodation, Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel. The hotel is a brand new luxury hotel in a prime central location nestled between two parks with expansive views of Queenstown and the surrounding mountains. The interior design will delight the conssoisseur and excite the most critical traveller.

The seventeen luxury rooms are spacious and luxurious, with the latest technology. The ground floor features 8 interconnecting rooms all with views to the Gondola and their own private courtyard.  A further 3 ground floor rooms have stunning views to the Remarkables and Cecil Peak as well as looking over the park. This park is a landing place for paragliders who have just jumped off the top of the gondola hill.  Gondola Double Rooms and Tower Suites feature showers only while the Remarkables Room and Tower Suites also include a video/DVD player. All rooms are non smoking, however, guests may smoke outside.

Days 12-15 - 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
	Milford Sound - Overnight Cruise (seasonal) Overnight on the Milford Mariner, a 40 metre motor vessel, leisurely cruise Milford Sound, explore points of interest and view the spectacular alpine scenery and keep a lookout for wildlife including seals, dolphins and penguins when in season. After reaching the open sea the sails may be hoisted, anchors overnight in sheltered Harrison Cove.

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

Day 16 - Depart for US

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.