Our ultimate luxury adventure itinerary featuring 4 locations, Eagles Nest (Bay of Islands); Wharekauhau Lodge & Estate (Wellington); Annandale (Christchurch); and Minaret Station Alpine Lodge (Southern Alps) with unique activities to ensure the trip is luxurious, educational and unforgettable. It will be a trip of a lifetime!

• Economy air round trip from Los Angeles to Auckland
• Add-on airfares available from other cities
• Internal coach class air within New Zealand, Auckland - KeriKeri (bay of Islands), KeriKeri (Bay of Islands) - Wellington, Wellington - Christchurch
• Private airport transfers to Eagles Nest (Bay of Islands); Wharekauhau Lodge & Estate (Wellington); Annandale (Christchurch)
• Minaret Station Helicopter transfers
• Eagles Nest - First Light Villa, 3 nights incl. Breakfast Provisions
• Wharekauhau Lodge - Cottage Suite, 3 Nights incl. Breakfast and Dinner
• Annandale - Shepherds Cottage, 3 nights incl. Continental Breakfast & Dinner Provisions
• Minaret Station - Alpine Chalet, 3 nights incl. All Meals, Selected Beverages and Onsite Guide
• All airport taxes & fuel surcharges
• All hotel, local and VAT (Goods & services taxes)
• ** Note: certain lodge activities additional cost **

Day 1 - Depart US
Ask about our options with Premium Economy and Business class airfare.

Day 2 - Cross International Date line

Day 3 - Auckland/Bay of Islands
On arrival into Auckland airport connect by short flight to Kerikeri – the gateway to the Bay of Islands. You will be met on arrival in Kerikeri and transferred by private car service to Eagles Nest. 

This multi-award winning retreat is set within a 75 acre estate atop its own private ridgeline offering spectacular views of the Bay of Islands. Designed and furnished in an eclectic international contemporary style, where gardens and lodgings blend into the natural topography and foliage. Eagles Nest is within easy walking distance of the historic town of Russell, the birth place of New Zealand. Their private family Villa: Rahimoana: Sun God over the Ocean features four private bedrooms accommodating a total of 8 people in pure luxury offering stunning 320 degree views of the Bay of Islands. This villa is perfect for a family and boasts open plan living, state of the art gymnasium, Jacuzzi, 25 metre heated infinity edged lap pool and a home cinema.

Inclusions: Porsche Cayenne for guest use in local area, Personal Concierge/Villa Manager Selection of New Zealand wines and French Champagne, Gourmet breakfast provisions (replenished daily), One Gourmet Three Course Meal prepared by a Private Chef (daily), Personal chef provisioned refrigerator (replenished daily), Daily servicing of villa and nightly turn down service, Daily servicing of guest laundry, Bar selection of spirits, High Speed Wireless internet access, Fresh fruit platter (replenished daily)

Days 4 & 5 - Eagles Nest
Eagles Nest is the perfect base for your Bay of Islands experience. A selection of experiences include (additional cost)

GOLF
Eagles Nest is positioned offering easy helicopter access to the five local golf courses. Each of which offers superb views and wold-class courses.

CYCLING
Eagles Nest is pleased to offer guests complimentary use of professional quality mountain bikes to explore Russell and some of the beautiful local tracks.

HORSE TREKKING
From the volcano to the sea, you’ll ride through the forest while enjoying beautiful farmland and ocean views.

ADVENTURE
Eagles Nest provides a great base to explore the many adventure activities available in the Bay of Islands.

FISHING
The Bay of Islands offers many fishing options from land based salt water fly to charter boat sports fishing.

CUISINE
Gourmet Epicure and Personal Chefs, Local Food and Wine, Self Catering & the Bay of Islands Farmers Market.

AIR
Departing directly from Eagles Nest are a number of exclusive helicopter options visiting areas such as Cape Reinga, 90 mile beach and the Waipoa Forest.

SEA
With its rich marine wildlife, clear blue water and secluded beaches, the area can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

LAND
As one of the earliest settlements in New Zealand, Russell and the surrounding areas have a rich and colourful history.

Day 6 - Bay of Islands to Wellington
You will be collected from Eagles Nest for your private car service transfer to Kerikeri Airport. Depart Kerikeri by air to Wellington. On arrival into Wellington you will be transferred by a private car service transfer to Wharekauhau Lodge & Estate.

Nestled between the foothills of the Rimutaka Mountain range and and the the clifftops above the dramatic Palliser Bay, Wharekauhau Lodge is located at the heart of one of the most spectacular farms in the world. Built along the lines of an Edwardian country manner, Wharekauhau lodge cuts an elegant figure as it presides over the 5,500 acres of rolling pastureland. The main lodge consists of a large country kitchen, wood-burning open fireplaces, formal dining room, wine cellar, games room, intimate library, heated indoor swimming pool, gymnasium and plenty of winter snugs in which to cosy up with a good book.

From the moment you arrive to the second you depart, the Wharekauhau family are here to make this your home-away-from-home. Built on the service basis of traditional kiwi farmhouse-style service, the lodge encourages guests to join Chef Marc in the kitchen for a mid-morning coffee, or meet Aaron, the lodge Sommelier and enjoy an impromptu Pinot tasting in the cellar. The relaxed, yet ultimately knowledgeable staff at Wharekauhau take great pride in making sure your stay is one to remember for many years to come.

The accommodation is provided in 15 separate Cottage Suites dotted around the main lodge building. All cottages feature super king beds, open gas fireplace, underfloor heating, private verandas, flat-screen televisions, iPod docking stations and wifi. The lodge & cottage interiors have all been designed by the award-winning interior designer Virginia Fischer. All rooms are situated to capture the stunning natural light and absorb the panoramic vistas over the Pacific Ocean.

Lodge Facilities: Billiard / Pool table /Gym /Helipad / Horse riding / In house Spa services / Swimming Pool / Tennis court / Walking trails / Wi-Fi access

Days 7 & 8 - Wharekauhau Lodge & Estate
Wharekauhau offers a range of onsite activities from the relaxing such as cellar tastings or soothing massages to the adventurous such as ATV Quad Biking, Horse Trekking, Clay target shooting, Archery & Tennis. Guests can enjoy a trip into the famous Burgandy-esque Martinborough wine region, home to 35 boutique wineries, and a plethora of artisan food producers. A day trip out to Cape Palliser to see the Southern Hemispheres largest Brown Fur Seal colony and lighthouse built into the cliff face is also a must-do. Those wishing to contrast the relaxed country atmosphere often head for a day out shopping, visiting the national museum, and enjoying the vibrant coffee culture ambience of Wellington city.

Day 9 - Wellington to Christchurch
You will be collected from the lodge for your private car service transfer to Wellington Airport. Depart Wellington by air to Christchurch. On arrival into Christchurch you will be transferred by private car service transfer to Annandale.

Luxury coastal farm escape offering four award-winning villas for exclusive use providing an authentic kiwi experience, privacy and relaxation. In an area of outstanding beauty and off the tourist trail lies Annandale, an iconic sheep and cattle farm offering four distinctive luxury villas with relaxed Kiwi-style informality. Developed in 1843, Annandale was one of the earliest and most renowned farms in New Zealand’s South Island. With 10 kilometers of spectacular and rugged coastline, Annandale today boasts 4,000 acres, 500 cattle and between 7,000 and 14,000 sheep. Our aim is to breed the finest stock through sustainable farming practices for the most delicious meat and best quality wool, while providing world-class luxury accommodation, farm-to-table cuisine and uniquely authentic experiences for our guests.

The centerpiece of this historic farm is the restored 5-bedroom Annandale Homestead which now has every modern convenience whilst sympathetically retaining its original charm and character overlooking the ocean and being surrounded by magnificent gardens, a restored fernery, and state-of-the-art recreation facilities including infinity pool, spa pool and tennis court. Authentic, rustic and thoroughly charming, the historic Shepherd’s Cottage provides an inspiring rural retreat for two with uninterrupted views of the sparkling ocean. Scrubby Bay, a luxurious 4-bedroom cedar-clad beach house in its own bay is the perfect location for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration of family and friendship. The sparkling jewel in Annandale’s crown is Seascape, an ultra modern retreat in a picturesque private bay providing a truly romantic experience for couples.

Lodge Facilities: Gym / Helipad / In house Spa services / Spa Pool / Swimming Pool / Tennis court / Walking trails / Water sports / Wi-Fi access

Day 10 & 11 - Annadale
Whilst there is every luxury and comfort on the inside, it is what’s on the outside that really sets Annandale apart. The turquoise waters surrounding the property are perfect for water activities, including guided kayaking and nature cruises on Annandale’s powerboat to see native wildlife, potentially encountering the famed Hector’s dolphins - the rarest and smallest dolphin in the world - seals, blue penguins or orca. Guests can arrange for an off road 4WD motorbike tour adventure, enjoy a hike or bike across the spectacular farm, practice their aim with clay target shooting, or relax with a massage, facial or other spa service in their villa. Additionally, there are onsite farm–to–table cooking lessons with our award winning chef or helicopter scenic flights from wine tasting or lunch at a vineyard, whale watching off the Kaikoura Coast, to discovering the mighty peak of Mt Cook.

Day 12 - Christchurch to Queenstown to Minaret Station
You will be collected from the lodge for your private car service transfer to Christchurch Airport. Depart Christchurch by air to Queenstown. On arrival into Queenstown you will be transferred by helicopter to Minaret Station.

Minaret Station offers New Zealand's premier alpine experience, with guided hiking, fly-fishing, heli-skiing, and hunting amidst the spectacular Southern Alps. Minaret Station is a 50,000 acre working high country farm, home to some 10000 deer, 7000 sheep and 1000 cattle raised for supply to premium export and domestic markets.

Beyond the mustering runs, nestled in amongst the spectacular Southern Alps and bordering the UNESCO World Heritage listed Mt Aspiring National Park, lies the luxurious and remote Alpine Lodge. Located at an elevation of 915 metres, the surrounds echo classic ‘Lord of the Rings’ territory. Set at the head of a picturesque glacial valley within the untouched landscapes and beauty of the Southern Alps, Minaret Station Alpine Lodge is accessible only by helicopter. Guests to the Station are treated to an exclusive and authentic experience framed by the rugged beauty of a secluded mountain landscape and will enjoy a level of comfort and style never before available in New Zealand’s wilderness.

Visitors to Minaret Station Alpine Lodge are welcomed as guests, but depart as family. The station is owned and operated by four brothers each with an affinity for the outdoors. Together, the Wallis brothers lead a friendly and experienced team, passionate about delivering memorable experiences time and time again. A team of hosts, pilots, guides, chefs and housekeeping staff pride themselves in providing each guest with an intimate and personalized level of service from the moment the first enquiry is made.

Guests are hosted exclusively, or as part of a group, in one of just four luxuriously appointed Chalets. The individual Chalets are separately positioned amongst native alpine grasses and herb fields, each harnessing unique vistas of the valley and surrounds.

 Each chalet offers privacy, warmth and the comfort of tasteful, high country design. They feature sheepskin carpets, king-sized beds, a dressing /sitting room, an en-suite bathroom and an adjoining private deck with sunken hot tub, where guests can relax and recline beneath the stars, in undisturbed privacy.

Central to the Alpine Lodge is the Mountain Kitchen. Linked to the chalets by a series of raised wooden boardwalks, the Mountain Kitchen features two separate living areas, wood-burning and open fires, a well-stocked library and cellar and first-class dining facilities

Lodge Facilities: Helipad / Spa Pool / Walking trails / Wi-Fi access

Days 13 & 14 - Minaret Station
Minaret Station provides the ultimate intimate and personalized experiences. In collaboration with your Aspire consultant take into account the seasonal opportunities and make the most of your stay. A selection of experiences include (additional cost)

SCENIC FLIGHTS
A large number of scenic flight options are available with many incorporating snow landings and alpine picnics amongst breathtaking scenery.

MOUNTAIN KITCHEN LUNCH
New Zealand’s most remote fine dining experience. Located high in the Southern Alps and accessible only by helicopter, the Mountain Kitchen at Minaret Station is the ultimate in exclusive, luxury dining. Modern cuisine paired with award winning regional wines, and a wide selection of beverages, is prepared by resident Chefs using fresh local produce.

MOUNTAIN BIKING
Say goodbye to the uphill grind, and instead take a helicopter to the mountain top to begin an exhilarating descent. Following a gear fitting session and an introduction to the techniques of mountain biking, guests will be flown to one of several remote trails in the Southern Alps.

FIORDLAND
Registered as a World Heritage Area, Fiordland National Park is the most remote and spectacularly preserved National Park in New Zealand. Famously inaccessible, Fiordland has seen minimal change and remains one of the most captivating and naturally beautiful locations in New Zealand.

PICNICS
Minaret Station’s culinary team can arrange a gourmet heli-picnic in a spectacular private alpine setting, complete with all the trimmings. Guests will travel in style by helicopter to one of many select wilderness locations.

JET BOATING
Enjoy the thrill of Jet Boating up one of several iconic glacier fed rivers in Mount Aspiring National Park. Guests are flown by helicopter to a waiting jet-boat to journey the braided rivers set amongst bush clad mountains and snow-capped peaks. The expedition is both informative and exciting and includes a short guided hike.

HIKING
Helicopter transport ensures exclusive access to otherwise inaccessible locations with each trip being tailored to suit the individual or group. Guests can choose to get up close to rushing waterfalls and craggy mountain ridges or simply meander through gently undulating valley floors, soaking up the natural wildlife.

FISHING
Minaret Station offers both freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities within the remote Southern Alps, and off the coastline of New Zealand’s West Coast. A great diversity of wild fish species provides exceptional experiences for anglers of varying abilities.

HELI SKIING
Explore hundreds of square kilometers of untracked terrain on our exclusive private Heli Ski charters with Minaret Station’s seasoned pilots and guides. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, if you can ski or snowboard then you can heli-ski.

Day 15 - Depart Minaret Station to Queenstown and US
Helicopter transfer to Queenstown airport. Depart Queenstown by air to Auckland and connect to International flight back to Los Angeles or onward destination.

request a quote or virtual appointment

Note: Daily departures, this package is an independent itinerary with flexible departures (not a group tour)

Single Supplement: From $1,299

NZETA & IVL to enter New Zealand $50 per person. Before committing to your trip please ensure you hold a valid passport with at least six months’ validity from the date you plan to return to the USA.

Read More about NZETA & IVL

Add on airfares (coach) available from most major airports - Add $200 from San Francisco, Add $250 from Dallas, Seattle, add $300 from New York, Denver, Chicago, Houston, Minneapolis, add $400 from Boston, Miami, Add $450 from Washington DC, Atlanta - ask an Aspire consultant for a quote from your local airport.

• Upgrade to Skycouch (2 pax) from $449 each way*
• Upgrade to premium economy from $700 per person each way*
• Upgrade to business class from $2,000 per person each way*
Can take the upgrade one way or round trip and combine premium/business classes on same ticket

* Starting from pricing based on Monday through Thursday departures - ask an Aspire consultant for the upgrade fee for travel Friday through Sunday

Conditions

Package from pricing is based on double occupancy (2 people sharing a room) from Los Angeles or San Francisco. Ask an Aspire consultant for pricing for other travel dates. Add-on fares are available from other cities. Certain blackout dates apply on the accommodation and tour value add offers - check with your Aspire consultant. Seats are limited and may not be available on every flight. Hotels are subject to availability. All prices reflect a discount for purchases made by cash/wire transfer/check, please see terms and conditions for credit card payments. There are no discounts for payment made by credit cards. Cancellation penalties and other restrictions apply.