- Fourteen (14) days exploring New Zealand for two (2) couples (Auckland, Taupo, Napier/Hawkes Bay, Christchurch, Queenstown, Keri Keri/Bay of Islands and Devonport)
- Round-trip, business class airfare from San Francisco, California to Auckland, New Zealand for two (2) couples
- Domestic air transportation for two (2) couples while in New Zealand
- Luxury, award-winning accommodations in each city
- Special tours, wine tastings and exciting excursions along the way
When Oscar® Award-winning filmmaker Peter Jackson set out to shoot the Lord of the Rings trilogy, he needed to find a location with the surreal, majestic topography of J.R.R. Tolkien’s “Middle Earth.” Few places boast sheer-faced cliffs, snow-capped mountain ranges, crystalline waters, rich, verdant forests and vast mossy plains, but luckily for him, he found all the magic he needed in his native New Zealand. This enchanted isle’s European and Maori inhabitants are fondly called “Kiwis” and their unique microclimates are now producing some of the world’s most sought-after wines. On this epic excursion, you’ll not only meet some of New Zealand’s foremost vintners, explore its otherworldly landscape and cosmopolitan energy, but stay at some of the world’s leading five-star resorts and recipients of numerous awards from Condé Nast Traveler, Robb Report and Travel & Leisure as well as distinctions from Relais & Chateaux and luxury travel guru, Andrew Harper.
DAYS ONE & TWO—Auckland & Mollies
By car, you’ll tour New Zealand’s vibrant capital city, Auckland; with its blend of harbor, islands and Polynesian culture this modern city has created a lifestyle that is ranked among the best in the world. You’ll arrive at your exquisitely plush, five-star boutique hotel, Mollies, known for its charm, dramatic décor, attention to detail and fine antiques; making this wonderfully eclectic hotel one of the city’s favorites. You will dine that evening at Clooney Restaurant, known for its contemporary design and its luxurious and intimate dining experience. On day two, you’ll soak in the sights of Waiheke Island where you’ll be escorted on a tour of three renowned vineyards, ending with special lunch at Mudbrick Vineyard. By night, enjoy the sumptuous comforts and sounds of Mollies, in the glamorous St. Mary’s Bay area.
DAYS THREE & FOUR—Taupo & The Huka Lodge
You’ll fly to Taupo, a city on the shores of New Zealand’s largest freshwater lake in the volcanic heart of the North Island, boasting unique geothermal areas and the dramatic Huka Falls. You will stay at the new Alan Pye Cottage at the world-renowned, award-winning Huka Lodge Resort. Founded in the 1920s, Huka Lodge is considered to be the iconic New Zealand retreat, and listed on the “World’s Best Hotels” by Travel & Leisure for its unrivalled riverside location and superb hospitality for such guests as Queen Elizabeth II. The cottage features two suites with en suite bathrooms, fireplaces, generous dressing rooms, an open plan living room and dining area with a fireplace, offering decadently comfortable living. A kitchen, study, outdoor pavilion and a spa, along with an infinity pool complete the picture. Each evening you’ll relax with pre-dinner drinks followed by a locally inspired five-course meal at the resort.
DAYS FIVE & SIX— Napier/Hawke’s Bay & The Farm at Cape Kidnappers
Just a 2.5-hour scenic drive away is The Farm at Cape Kidnappers, voted by Golf Digest as one of the world’s top 100 golf course destinations, set atop 6,000 rolling acres, 800 feet above the sea. This first-class resort boasts an incredible spa, golf and more. Rest here before your excursion to the Hawke’s Bay Wine Country, New Zealand’s leading producer of red wines. The region also has the greatest concentration of Art Deco architecture and is host to the country’s most elaborate celebrations of Matariki—the Maori New Year. It’s also known for its artisan gourmet foods and glorious beaches. Spend one day with New Zealand’s famed tour guide, Ms. Brigid Ormond, as she takes you on a full day wine tour highlighted by a special lunch at Craggy Range Vineyard.
DAYS SEVEN & EIGHT—Christchurch & Otahuna Lodge
A short flight will take you to Christchurch in the region of Canterbury; which is known for its panoramic views of silvery beaches, to the jagged peaks of the Southern Alps and massive amounts of sky. Upon your arrival into Christchurch, you’ll be greeted by popular tour guide, Mr. Brian Lucas, of Canterbury Trails, who’ll guide you through Christchurch’s historic museums, renowned cathedrals, colorful gardens and experience “punting” on the Avon. Unwind and relax in your luxurious rooms at the award-winning Otahuna Lodge, considered one of the best examples of unspoiled Queen Anne architecture in Australasia. Spend a full day at the harbourside village of Akaroa, visit Barry’s Bay Cheese Factory and lunch at a café. Each night you’ll return to the Otahuna Lodge, where you’ll enjoy a five-course degustation dinner with New Zealand wine pairings.
DAYS NINE & TEN—Queenstown & Eichardt’s Private Hotel
Queenstown, as its name implies, is a regal city. The first people to discover its rare beauty were Maori pounamu (jade) hunters, who were followed by the gold miners. Today Queenstown is treasured for its magnificent scenery, adventure opportunities and luxurious lifestyle. The downtown area is a cosmopolitan hub, relaxed by day and energetic by night. Eichardt’s Private Hotel is the perfect oasis for your stay, located in the historic district on Lake Wakatipu at the heart of Queenstown's shopping, café and restaurant precinct. No visit to Queenstown would be complete without a ride on the Shotover Jet boat. A thrilling ride, as you skim past rocky outcrops at close range, twisting and turning through the narrow canyons at breath-taking speeds. On your second day, you’ll take a picturesque voyage on Lake Wakatipu aboard the vintage steamship, the TSS Earnslaw, to Walter Peak High Country Farm; where you’ll enjoy a farm excursion followed by a New Zealand style tea service. That night, you’ll have your own private chef for the evening, Stephen Mills of Encore Cuisine, who will prepare a marvelous meal with New Zealand wine pairings.
DAYS ELEVEN TO THIRTEEN—Keri Keri & Eagles Nest
New Zealand’s subtropical northern-most point remains mostly unspoiled. It’s an aquatic playground for adventure activities and escapist relaxation. While here, you’ll stay at Eagles Nest’s luxury villas. 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. Enjoy dinner at a local favorite, Kamakura Restaurant. On the second day, you’ll set sail on a private yacht charter to explore the scenic Bay of Islands and be treated to coffee, tea and lunch. On day three; famed Kiwi developer and NCEF Trustee Judith Liegeois’ cousin, Philip Lindesay, will take you on a tour of Keri Keri & Russell, ending the day with a private tour of Waitangi, a historical site where Polynesian voyagers arrived in the 11th century.
DAY FOURTEEN—Devonport & Peace and Plenty
A short plane ride will take you from Keri Keri back to Auckland followed by a picturesque drive to Devonport. Refresh and re-energize at the Peace and Plenty Inn, a magnificently restored Victorian villa, situated in an unbeatable waterfront location in the heart of the historic maritime village of Devonport. This delightful seaside village was one of Auckland's earliest settlements and is surrounded by the sea, commanding magnificent 360-degree views of Mount Victoria Takarunga, the Hauraki Gulf and Auckland City. Early the next morning, you’ll board the ferry to Auckland and finish up your souvenir shopping before ending your adventure with a scenic drive to Auckland airport.
Insider's Info: Trip to be taken on mutually agreeable dates between March 1 and December 1, 2010. Limited ground transfers are included. Additional meals and activities outside of those listed are not included and are the responsibility of the winning bidders. A detailed itinerary is available upon request.
Donor: Judith Liegeois & John Scot Mueller, Mollies Hotel, The Huka Retreats, The Farm at Cape Kidnappers, Otahuna Lodge, Eichardt’s Private Hotel, Eagles Nest, Peace and Plenty Inn, Ananda Tours, Ltd., Canterbury Trails, Clooney Restaurant, Craggy Range Vineyards, Stephen Mills of Encore Cuisine, Fullers Group Limited, Kamakura Restaurant, Kingfisher Yacht Charters, Long Island Tours New Zealand, Philip Lindesay, Mudbrick Vineyard, Shotover Jet, TIME Unlimited NZ Tours & Travel and Waitangi
Airfare within New Zealand is donated by: Aspire Down Under
International Airfare donated by: Jean & Don Ackerman, Martha & Jim Fligg, Barbara & John Jordan and Linda & Jim Malone
