Not only does New Zealand have stunning scenery, superb lodges and hotels but we are also lucky enough to have nearly 400 golf courses. On this journey you get to play some of the country’s best courses in breathtaking landscapes, stay in some of the finest locations and experience thrilling activities like the Huka Falls Jetboat Tour, Mt Cook Ultimate Scenic Flight and an exclusive Helicopter Tour to Milford Sound including Overnight Cruise.
‚Play and Stay‘ at some of the most reputable places in the world. Please study our outstanding itinerary below!
Please note: All of our self drive tours can be booked with a chauffeur/tour guide as a private tour option! Enquire now!
The details below are for each of the days where there is a major driving leg.
Times are based on a reasonable average of between 70 and 80 kph (45-55 mph approx).
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The following summary lists driving information for each major driving day of your itinerary. Times and distances are based on ideal conditions without stops. Plan to take longer to allow time to explore and enjoy some stops.
Once you touch down in New Zealand your detailed tour pack will be hand delivered by one of our trusted representatives. The pack contains everything you need for the duration of your stay. It will include a comprehensive, printed and bound version of your itinerary as well as clear driving instructions and maps for each leg of your journey. It also contains all the reservation details for your accommodation and activities – along with relevant brochures and information. While in New Zealand we offer 24 hour support – details on how to contact us at any time will be well documented.
The trip from Auckland to the Bay of Islands takes around 3.5 hours but give yourself some leeway for stops and sightseeing. As you go through Puhoi, take in the bohemian atmosphere of this historical township. Stop for a breath of fresh salty air in Whangarei and take another break at Kawakawa – home to the world famous Hundertwasser toilets. Enjoy the native bush surrounds and marvel at the endless golden beaches as you arrive into the subtropical Bay of Islands region. Continuing north its just a short drive to Whangaroa Harbour and Matauri Bay, your destination for the night.
Accommodation – Kauri Cliffs:
Set on 6,000 acres near Matauri Bay, Northland, The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs affords spectacular 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean. Cape Brett and the offshore Cavalli Islands are part of the panorama which can be viewed from the verandas, lounge and dining rooms. A championship golf course also graces the lodge.
Ranked the number one hotel in the world in 2014 by Conde Nast, Kauri Cliffs is also home to two astroturf tennis courts, an infinity swimming pool, spa and fully equipped fitness centre. Five-star gourmet a la carte dining is available both indoors and on the veranda outside, as well as informal barbecues and lunch hampers.
Enjoy the Kauri Cliffs experience and their magnificent golf course
Located on 6,000 spectacular acres near Matauri Bay, Northland, The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs is a secluded oasis. With panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Cape Brett and the Cavalli Islands, guests stay in one of 22 cottage suites, each with their own private porch and open fireplace. While best known for its world-class golf course, Kauri Cliffs has many other activities on offer including horseback riding, cycling, swimming, sailing, a guided farm tour, and access to it’s day spa – nestled within native Totara forest. Discover New Zealand’s pristine shores on one of three private beaches or fish and dive in the clear blue waters.
Kauri Cliffs was designed and built by David Harman. The par 72 championship golf course measures 7,119 yards / 6,510 metres and offers five sets of tees to challenge every skill level. Fifteen holes view the Pacific Ocean, six of which are played alongside cliffs which plunge to the sea. The beautiful inland holes wind through marsh, forest and farmland. Kauri Cliffs is currently ranked #39 in the world by Golf Digest Top 100 Greatest Golf Courses in the World.
Kauri Cliffs recently underwent a renovation from world-renowned golf course architect Rees Jones. The 5th hole received a complete redesign and was transformed from a long, uphill, forced carry par-3 to a short „drop shot“ par-3. Other notable changes were the addition of tees on the 2nd and 9th holes and a bunker renovation on the 4th hole. The golf complex includes a world-class practice range, putting and chipping greens, a well-stocked golf shop, and ladies’ and men’s locker rooms. Premium ladies’ and men’s rental clubs are available.
Accommodation – Kauri Cliffs
Today return south through Kerikeri – known for its crafts studios, fruit orchards and artisan products. Home to two of the oldest buildings in the country – Mission House and the Stone Store (both which encompass materials and artifacts from early european settlers) Kerikeri is a delightful place to learn about New Zealand’s early history. Continue on to Paihia, your destination for the night – and a great base from which to explore the Bay of Islands.
Accommodation – Paihia Beach Resort & Spa:
Located in a superb beach position overlooking the Bay of Islands, Paihia Beach Resort & Spa offers stunning ocean views from every balcony and patio. The resort also features a 20 metre heated saltwater pool, large Jacuzzi, private steam and sauna rooms
Commonly known as the ‘winterless north’ New Zealand’s Bay of Islands is made up of over 140 subtropical atolls. Renowned for its untouched beaches, abundant marine life and idyllic climate, this tropical paradise ticks all the boxes. Spend some time on a remote stretch of beach, or cool off during a ‘swim with dolphins’ ocean safari. If diving is your thing, take the morning to descend the Rainbow Warrior – The Greenpeace flagship sunk by French saboteurs in 1985. Wander around Russell, a whaling port founded in 1843. Learn about our culture in historic Waitangi, the site where The Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between the Maori and European settlers dictating the terms by which New Zealand would become a British colony. Take a travel day to Cape Reinga, the very top of the North Island.
The Waitangi Course not only provides an exciting and ever changing challenge to the golfer but also the most tremendous panorama of sea and island views over the Bay of Islands and Russell, river and estuary views over Waitangi and Opua and rolling bush and forest views inland over Mount Bledisloe and Puketona. These views are complemented by well groomed greens and fairways surrounded by areas of flowering native trees which provide sanctuary for many varieties of native birds.
As many visiting golfers, particularly those from overseas, claim Waitangi is truly millionaires country for all to enjoy. In 1932 the then Governor General of New Zealand, Lord Bledisloe and his wife Lady Bledisloe purchased just over one thousand acres of land on the Waitangi Peninsular and donated it to the inhabitants of New Zealand as a place of historic interest and recreational enjoyment for their benefit and use in perpetuity.
This land is known as the Waitangi National Trust and is now administered and managed under the terms of the original gift by the Waitangi National Trust Board. The Waitangi Golf Club leases the land on which the course has been developed from the Trust.
Accommodation – Paihia Beach Resort & Spa
Today you will leave the Bay of Islands for a scenic return trip to Auckland. Head west, leaving the Pacific Ocean for the wilder seas of the Tasman and Hokianga. Go through the small townships of Omapere and Opononi, each with a great seaside feel.
Your route now goes south through Waipoua Forest, home to the largest and oldest Kauri trees in the country. Make sure you allow time for several of the signposted short walks as you pass – not to be missed is the five minute loop to view the largest of all the trees -Tane Mahuta.
As you make your way back down the country you’ll pass the Matakohe Kauri Museum with extensive displays on the region’s logging, farming and social history. Continuing on, go through Warkworth and the bohemian settlement of Puhoi before crossing the harbour bridge to arrive in Auckland city.
Heading south from Auckland you’ll go through the lush pastures of Waikato king country. Choose to bypass Hamilton or if you’ve got the time, stop in to visit the renowned Hamilton Gardens – a detour we highly recommend. Continue on, following the Waikato River through the small township of Cambridge to eventually arrive in Taupo, which sits on New Zealand’s largest lake – Lake Taupo – and is actually a giant volcanic caldera.
The Huka Jet is 30 minutes of pure fun and exhilaration, skimming close to cliffs, sliding past trees, feeling the adrenalin of full 360 degree spins. The excitement continues right up to the base of the foaming Huka Falls, where you get a spectacular water level view to New Zealand’s most visited natural attraction. Nothing compares to watching 220,000 litres per second tumbling over the cliff face towards you.
The water from the mighty Huka Falls runs down the Waikato River through a series of Hydro Power Stations. You’ll get a view of the Wairakei Geothermal Power Station in the comfort of a powerful Chevrolet V8 jet boat. This unique Geothermal Power Station uses underground geothermal activity to produce hot steamy water. The Waikato Rivers beautiful environment is varied and unique and is New Zealand’s longest river flowing north from our largest lake – Lake Taupō.
Accommodation – Acacia Cliffs Lodge:
Acacia Cliffs Lodge occupies a simply stunning location with spectacular lake and mountain views along with superb cuisine and secluded luxury yet only minutes from the region’s attractions.
Ranked in 2013 in the Top 100 in the World by Golf Course Architecture Magazine, The Kinloch Club was also rated on opening in 2007 as the top new golf course outside North America by the prestigious US Travel and Leisure Golf Magazine.
The Golden Bear visited Kinloch to oversee construction of his signature Championship golf course and returned to The Kinloch Club in February of 2008 to play the course for the first time since completion. Jack was extremely happy with how his vision had come to fruition and was greatly impressed with the maturity of the golf course after it’s ‚grow in‘ stage.
The Kinloch Club (Nicklaus signature golf course) is the only Nicklaus designed golf course in New Zealand.
Accommodation – Acacia Cliffs Lodge
The road from Taupo climbs high onto the plateau crossing the Ahiminawa Range before arriving onto the Pacific Coast just north of the worlds finest art deco city of Napier. Napier, the city by the sea, is renowned for its 1930s Art Deco architecture, events such as the Art Deco Weekend in February, stately Norfolk pines, surrounding wineries and local fresh produce.
Supported by a Mediterranean climate and over 2,200 hours of sunshine a year this popular year-round destination boasts a vibrant cafe culture amongst the splendour of the Art Deco buildings. Around 30 cafes are within walking distance of the central city area, while Ahuriri, just over Bluff Hill, is home to a further cluster of up market establishments. Marine Parade overlooks the Pacific Ocean and out towards Cape Kidnappers, home to the world’s largest mainland gannet colony. A full day can be taken visiting Ocean Spa hot pools and swimming complex, the Hawke’s Bay Museum and the National Aquarium of New Zealand.
A landmark of Napier is Bluff Hill, which is home for many Napier residents and provides views of the town, beaches of Perfume Point and Westshore and out towards Whirinaki. Bluff Hill also overlooks the Port of Napier, one of New Zealand’s busiest ports, transporting timber, local fruit and meat products to worldwide destinations.
In 1931, New Zealand’s greatest natural disaster struck Hawke’s Bay. At 10.47am on Tuesday February 3rd, an earthquake of magnitude Richter 7.8 struck. In a minute and a half, in two separate shocks, the centre of Napier was almost totally destroyed. Fires quickly broke out and reduced to ashes or gutted what the tremors had left standing. Damage in Hastings was also devastating, although the fires were contained. Wairoa and the smaller towns to the south as far as Dannevirke were affected. There were 258 deaths – 162 in Napier, 93 in Hastings and 3 in Wairoa along with many injuries. The reconstruction of Napier and Hastings were costly but the benefit was two modern cities and the Ahuriri Lagoon, or Inner Harbour as it was usually known, was raised over 2 metres, creating the land, which Napier desperately needed to expand.
Accommodation – The Farm at Cape Kidnappers:
Located in Hawke’s Bay, one of New Zealand’s most important wine districts, Cape Kidnappers has a rich history. The Farm is a five-star experience set on a 6,000-acre sheep and cattle farm which encompasses land reminiscent of Montana but plunges 800 feet straight into the sea. A championship golf course designed by Tom Doak is just one reason to experience The Farm.
The Farm at Cape Kidnappers
With spectacular panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, nestled among 6,000 acres of rugged coastal farmland, The Farm at Cape Kidnappers offers a multitude of activities within a five-star luxury setting. Offering many comfortable spaces to relax and unwind, including an intimate snug, stylish lounges, outdoor conservatory areas – there is no better way to take in this picturesque landscape. Choose from a range of leisure facilities such as: a heated infinity pool and jacuzzi, spa treatments with beautiful forest and ocean views, a world class golf course and clubhouse and a fully equipped gym, offering yoga, pilates, golf specific fitness and personal training. The Farm is also home to some of the best trails in the north island, from independent forest walks to ocean stroll or guided farm tours – pack a picnic and set off on an afternoon of outdoor fun. Also on offer are mountain bikes, quad bikes and horse treks for the more adventurous traveller.
Designed by legendary golf architect Tom Doak, the Cape Kidnappers par 71 golf course measures 7,119 yards (6,510 meters) and will challenge golfers of all skill levels. Completed in 2004, our spectacular New Zealand golf course has been hailed as one of the great modern marvels in golf. Built on a ridge-and-valley landscape and with stunning sea views, Cape Kidnappers Golf Course plays high above the ocean atop dramatic cliffs.
With cliff-edge fairways perched 140 metres above sea level and with a surface that remains firm and fast, this course offers holes unlike anything you find elsewhere in the world. While every hole has a spectacular view of the Bay, some play cautiously alongside deep ravines as others intimidate golfers with deep cliff top bunkers and sheer drops off the very edge of the earth. The golf complex includes a world-class practice range, putting and chipping greens, a well-stocked golf shop, clubhouse and ladies’ and mens’ locker rooms. Premium ladies’ and mens’ rental clubs are available.
Accommodation – The Farm at Cape Kidnappers
Following the 2011 earthquake that razed its centre and much of the outlying suburbs, Christchurch is well into a billion-dollar makeover. In the middle of the Canterbury Plains, bordering the pacific ocean, New Zealand’s newest city is an ideal gateway to exploring the middle of the South. Go punting on the Avon River, take a historic tram ride, catch the gondola to the rim of an extinct volcano or do all three! See the world’s only Cardboard Cathedral and for nature enthusiasts – wander the renowned Christchurch Botanic Gardens.
Drive an hour in any direction to ski, mountain bike, wine taste, whale-watch, bungy jump or play golf. Visit the International Antarctic Centre or take a day to go on safari at Orana Wildlife Park. Take the winding Port Hills road to the French settlement of Akaroa and tour the vines in Waipara for a authentic New Zealand wine-tasting experience.
Accommodation – Peppers Clearwater Resort: This waterfront resort is located within beautiful grounds and on the side of lakes and waterways. All accommodations offer either lake or views of the championship fairways.
The par 72 championship course is home of 8 NZPGA Championship. Designed by John Darby in consultation with New Zealand golfing legend, Sir Bob Charles, the course combines elements of links golf inspired by the great Scottish courses with parkland golf, more reminiscent of Florida. Playable year-round, the course meanders around a succession of spring-fed lakes and trout-filled streams, with uninterrupted views of the spectacular Southern Alps. There are five tee positions to suit players of all abilities.
Accommodation – Peppers Clearwater Resort
Today you’ll drive through the heart of the South Island, crossing the vast Canterbury plains. Catch your breath in Geraldine before continuing through Fairlie. Ascending Burkes pass you’ll come to the picturesque lakeside town of Tekapo.
Follow the road and take in the view of Aoraki Mt Cook (New Zealand’s tallest mountain) from the shores of Lake Pukaki, known for its glacier fed turquoise blue color. Continue along the lake to your final destination Mt Cook Village.
Please note there are no food or shops at Mount Cook you will need to stock up prior to arriving in Mount Cook if you wish to self cater.
View the spectacular Aoraki Mount Cook from above on this 55 minute scenic flight. See the incredible scenery surrounding New Zealand’s tallest peak, including hanging glaciers, calved icebergs, rivers of ice, the forests of the West Coast and the renowned Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake. You’ll also land on the glacier itself – a truly unique experience.
Accommodation – Hermitage Hotel, Aoraki Wing Premium Plus Experience the best views in the park from the spacious top floor rooms of the magnificent Hermitage Hotel.
Continue your drive south into Central Otago, through the Gibbston Valley and onto Queenstown
Leaving the alpine region of Mount Cook, you’ll travel through the lakeside town of Twizel, then a little further to Omarama – the gliding capital of New Zealand. Continue on over the Lindis Pass, one of New Zealand’s highest roads with a summit of 971 metres. Arrive in the quaint village of Tarras, then continue on a short way to the historic Bendigo Reserve, one of Otago’s original gold mining settlements.
Follow the road to Cromwell, and keep going through the sheer cliffs of the Kawarau Gorge towards the Gibbston Valley, one of New Zealand’s premier wine growing regions. See the historic Kawarau Bridge where you can bungy jump or relax and watch others take the plunge. Approaching Queenstown, the Remarkables mountain range comes into view as you arrive into the adventure capital of New Zealand.
Accommodation – Millbrook Resort, Arrowtown:
This 175 room boutique hotel is situated on 500 acres of golf course and grounds. Surrounded by mountains the resort offers everything you need but is also close enough to Arrowtown and Queenstown to enjoy the region to its fullest.
A day to relax or try one of the many adventures on offer in Queenstown and Arrowton or maybe a round of golf at Millbrook
Set in a natural, alpine amphitheatre, against the backdrop of the Remarkables Mountain Range, the golf course at Millbrook exploits the dramatic terrain fully, delivering world-class golf. Designed by Sir Bob Charles and recently upgraded by Greg Turner, this 18 hole, par-72 championship course features 4 different tee positions for complete enjoyment at all levels of playing expertise.
Accommodation – Millbrook Resort, Arrowtown
Today you venture by private helicopter to Milford Sound
Exclusive Milford Sound Heli Cruise
Breathtaking, magnificent and truly spectacular, a Milford Sound Heli Tour is a must do when visiting New Zealand. Descend through carved glacial valleys to Milford Sound where you’ll join an informative cruise on the fiord itself. The unique character of Milford Sound is due to the huge volume of rainfall this region receives – resulting in a surreal world of moss, rainforest, lakes, rivers and waterfalls. You’ll cruise the waterways carved by glaciers all the way to the wild west coast. On your return flight to Queenstown experience an alpine landing where you can step foot on pristine wilderness rarely seen by people.
Accommodation – Millbrook Resort, Arrowtown
Depart Queenstown today
Your final morning in Queenstown before driving to the airport and catching your next flight. Depending on when your flight departs you might have time for one last Queenstown adventure before dropping your car off at the airport and catching your flight.
Thank you for visiting New Zealand
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