Bookmark these unique experiences for this once-in-a-lifetime destination.
December 6, 2024
As one of the most remote destinations, New Zealand tends to be a once-in-a-lifetime event. As such, a vacation to the “Land of the Long White Cloud” is an occasion to splurge on unique activities that fully immerse you in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this fascinating nation in Oceania. These are the most luxurious travel experiences in New Zealand.
Shared and private helicopter flights operate across the two main islands, allowing travelers to glimpse glistening glaciers, surreal fjords, impenetrable mountains, simmering volcanoes, ancient forests, and craggy isles from the sky. Some are themed on Middle Earth and focus on the filming locations for Peter Jackson’ The Lord of the Rings movie trilogy while others traverse wine regions. The most coveted air safaris in the South Island of New Zealand include alpine or glacier landings.
In Rotorua, one of the North Island’s most fascinating tourist destinations, spas and wellness centers are built atop volcanic waters. Day passes cover the use of shared and private thermal pools whereas packages may add treatments incorporating Māori healing practices. Wai-Ariki is one of the most deluxe resorts in Rotorua for a spa day. On the south island, Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools offer lodging and exclusive use of private suites for couples.
As an island nation, New Zealand has an abundance of sailing excursions. These are concentrated on the smaller isles and sculpted coastlines of the North Island of New Zealand where the climate is warmer. The subtropical Bay of Islands is the country’s top sailing destination with 144 islands to explore and such delights as the Hole in the Rock while other routes connect Auckland with the Coromandel. Yacht charters usually have the option of a chef service and others, such as Silver Wave, offer sailing tuition.
New Zealand has an outstanding reputation for wine-making across its 10 main wine regions where bespoke tours can be arranged via bicycle or private chauffeur. Historic and premium estates run luxurious experiences including private masterclasses with winemakers and helicopter or hot air balloon flights over the vineyards. On Waiheke, the “Island of Wine”, guests can take a wine inspired retreat at Mudbrick where cottages overlook the ocean and private vineyard tours are led by Cellar Masters.
Expedition cruises allow a richer experience of the South Island’s Fiordland National Park. Custom-built vessels sail past the cascades and sheer cliffs of Doubtful and Milford Sound before docking for peaceful evenings under crystal-clear night skies. The most luxurious ships have panoramic en suite cabins, hot tubs, and helipads. Excursions range between two and six nights.
The islands of the South Pacific Ocean are ideal for recovering from – or amplifying – a busy New Zealand itinerary. These islands offer a mix of luxury, cultural pursuits, and adventurous activities that complement a journey to Aotearoa. Auckland, the largest city, has convenient links with Fiji, Vanuatu, and French Polynesia as well as the lesser-known island of Niue.
Contact Darby at Darby’s Destinations to book your luxury trip to New Zealand.
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Darby’s Destinations LLC, an accredited IATAN Travel Agency, located at 221 Tremont Street, Mansfield, MA 02048 USA. While our clients have had great experiences with the travel suppliers featured on this website, Darby’s Destinations LLC is not an employee, agent, or representative of these suppliers and, therefore, cannot make any promises regarding the service clients will receive with a particular supplier. Before booking a trip, clients are responsible for reviewing the services offered by the supplier, along with any terms, conditions, and exclusions.
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