Does the thought of New Zealand conjure up images of adrenaline-seeking gap year students and empty nesters on walking holidays? We don't blame you. But now we have found a way to ditch the stereotype: scratch the surface and New Zealand has a lot more to offer the hip, urban traveller. It's the perfect destination for those looking for a little bit of heart pumping action mixed in with a lot of luxury. It's time to swap your backpack for your Hermes and head off...
But how do you squeeze the delights of such an awesome country into one trip? There are of course many options, but this is how we have done it: start in Auckland and head north to the Bay of Islands, surely the finest Maritime Park in New Zealand. Cruise the islands in a private luxury motor boat stopping at secluded bays for snorkeling, swimming and kayaking or simply kick back and relax with a chilled glass of wine and take in the scenery. Take a flight in a private helicopter over the majestic Puketi Forest before being dropped at Ninety Mile beach for a thrilling quad biking adventure across sandy dunes and rocky coastlines.
Next stop, Taupo; a vibrant region situated on the shores of the largest lake in the country renowned for its natural hot water pools and steaming geysers. Take your pick of activities from a volcanic safari by helicopter, flying along the fault line before stepping foot on White Islands crater floor - a truly incredible experience - to kayaking on the lake to reach the Maori rock carvings. Stay at the magnificent Huka Lodge on the banks of the Waikato River where you can relax and unwind after a day of activity.
A hop to South Island and Nelson, full of sprawling national parks, vineyards and gourmet cafés. In Abel Park you can roam where bush land meets long stretches of golden sand and crystal clear waters. For a cultural hit, gallery visits, private viewings with local artists and lunch at a fantastic winery can be arranged.
Round off this trip of a lifetime in Queenstown, the 'adventure capital of New Zealand' where there's an extensive menu of activity for everyone. But, where staying in a youth hostel would have once added to the adventure, it's doesn't anymore. You can't beat the intimate yet stunning Blanket Bay Lodge, an alpine style hideaway on the banks of Lake Wakatipu. The service is impeccable as is the range of activities available like jet boating, fly fishing and even a glass of champagne on a glacier. We can't think of many better ways to toast the end of a mind blowing trip.
