10 Nights
price on request
From the volcanoes in Tongariro National Park to the unsung Rippon vineyards, Wellington’s art galleries to Queenstown’s suspension bridges, Mount Cook to Akaroa's marae, every aspect of Maori and New Zealand culture and nature line up on this Route du Bonheur in the “land of the long white cloud.” (Aotearoa) A journey across two islands and a trip featuring beauty without bounds...
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Hotel and restaurant on the seafront. In the northeast corner of New Zealand’s North Island lies Helena Bay Lodge. This luxury lodge features three kilometres of pristine coastline, four private beaches and many intimate coves. Helena Bay has brought the celebrated Ristorante Don Alfonso 1890 of southern Italy to New Zealand. Under the direction and influence of Don Alfonso’s philosophy of respecting food culture, the kitchen incorporates the age-old traditions of Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast. The property offers a wide range of activities including kayaking, fishing, farm tours and bicycles. Its 800 acres combine a mix of forestry and open paddocks; and with miles of tracks there is plenty to explore. ... Learn moreless
On 6th February 1840, by signing the Waitangi Treaty, the Maori chiefs signed the official birth certificate of their nation. Now a memorial, Treaty House still holds a copy of the famous treaty. Each year, on the anniversary, a compact crowd gathers for great festivities, saluting the flag, songs and...
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Bay of Islands is a name which amateur sailors of the southern hemisphere and Pacific dream about. In 1769, the navigator James Cook was the first European to sail through the middle of these dozens of rocky virgin islands. It was he who called it ‘Bay of Islands’. Two and a half centuries later, we...
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Hotel and restaurant in a park. Huka Lodge has enjoyed a location of great natural beauty, on the banks of the mighty Waikato River, since it was founded as a very simple trout fishing camp, in 1924. It nestles within a landscape of snow-capped peaks, wild tussock, lush forests and clear blue lakes and streams. This legendary retreat continues to define absolute style, while offering privacy and relaxation, with authentic outdoor adventure, for those who appreciate exquisite cuisine, personal service and unique experiences. Offering a truly exclusive experience, within 17-acres, Huka Lodge proudly taking its place amongst the world’s best retreats – with its reputation and awards all richly deserved. ... Learn moreless
Survey this unique and unspoiled landscape ringed by three active volcanoes including Mount Ngauruhoe’s near-perfect cone (similar to Mount Fiji). If your fitness level allows, the climb up to the crater is a fantastic experience. Due to the volcanic nature of the surroundings of Huka, there are many...
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Lake Taupo is the perfect spot to leave the world behind. New Zealand's largest lake was formed almost 2,000 years ago during a massive volcanic eruption. You have two options: hire a small boat to explore the huge lake or go fly fishing on the mighty River Tongariro - one of the best spots in Oceania...
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Hotel and restaurant in the country. In Maori, Wharekauhau means “place of knowledge”, as it was here where the wise men would come to learn their craft. The name has remained as a testament to the past. Nearly two centuries later, a large sheep station took its place here and finds itself still in activity today. In this farm setting, overlooking the Palliser Bay, the lodge cultivates a refined art de vivre, with a welcoming decor that mixes antiques with natural materials.It is surrounded by vast native gardens where the croquet lawn, flowers, orchard and vegetable garden stand alongside one another, with the latter two supplying the restaurant where a delicious revisited “Kiwi” cuisine is served. ... Learn moreless
Take the ferry to South Island through the superb Marlborough Sounds - and drive south from Picton via Kaikoura. Make sure you stop off often at the beaches south of Kekerengu (excellent café to stop off at) and view the seal and penguin colonies. Food trucks positioned along the seafront sell crayfish...
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It is regarded as one of the most pleasant capital cities in the world! Wellington is famous for its blowing winds, kind and non-conformist locals and art gallery treasures (don’t miss the City Gallery Wellington in Civic Square). Wellington, is also a city for food lovers and coffee fans (Prefab, on...
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Hotel and restaurant in the country. At the heart of a 19th century Victorian estate, Otahuna Lodge seamlessly knits past and present together: period woodwork, stained glass windows and fifteen working fireplaces combine with a host of modern comforts and a rich collection of contemporary New Zealand art. Outside, Otahuna, which is Maori for little hill among the hills, has striking views over the Canterbury Plains and the Banks Peninsula. The song of native bellbirds invites guests to discover hidden glades, ponds and more than 120 different kinds of organic fruits, vegetables, nuts and mushrooms in the historic gardens. ... Learn moreless
Otahuna backs onto the volcanic Banks peninsula. The superb Summit Road follows the sides of the old crater and leads into the charming little town of Akaroa. This former French settlement continues to cultivate its different way of life and its blooming gardens. Vines and olive trees grow in stark contrast...
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A little south-east of Christchurch lies the small town of Lyttelton that was extensively damaged in the 2011 earthquake. Perhaps more than anywhere else, the residents here have brilliantly improvised to revive their town. Could this be down to the Bohemian feel that prevailed here before the quake,...
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The mountain with two names: Aoraki/Mount Cook. The highest summit in New Zealand has an elevation of 3,754m. Sacred to the Maori, Aoraki is still a national symbol. Trails are set out so you can take in the splendid surrounding glaciers. More experienced hikers can hire a professional guide to climb...
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Hotel and restaurant on a lake. On the shores of Lake Wakatipu, forty-five minutes from Queenstown, Blanket Bay offers dramatic views of the Humboldt Mountains and their reflections below. Wild, rugged and dense with foliage, the landscape finds its natural progression in the property’s stone and timber buildings. With their large windows that give onto the lake and grand fireplaces, the rooms, chalets and villas are elegant cocoons offering the ultimate respite after one of the many excursions on offer. From helicopter tours over the Fiords of Milford Sound to Mt Aspiring National Park hikes, jet boating in the river or fly fishing, the Blanket Bay team is always on hand to help you discover this breathtaking wilderness. And if it is serenity you seek, sit back and relax in the spa or in one of the armchairs in the bar, which offers a wide selection of premium New Zealand wines. ... Learn moreless
Queenstown is the world’s top destination for extreme sports. People come here to leap into mid-air (paragliding, hang-gliding and sky diving), tear down the slopes on skis, conquer the white water rapids, bungee jump etc. Mountain bikers love Queenstown Trail and the unbelievable trails in Bike Park....
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Rippon is one of New Zealand’s most charming wine-growing regions and also home to the vineyard run by Nick and Jo Mills, a couple of enthusiasts who practise biodynamic agriculture. Near here you will find Two Paddocks vineyard owned by Sam Neill, New Zealand’s famous actor who starred in Jane Campion’s...
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An icon in the heart of the Fiordland National Park, Milford Track is described by every guidebook as one of the world’s most beautiful hiking trails! At a little over 50km long, it takes 3-4 days from start to finish, depending on your fitness. From October to May, advance booking of overnight stays...
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**Offer cannot be combined, valid for an itinerary in at least 2 different Relais & Châteaux establishments before December 31, 2021, reserved with Relais & Châteaux concierges from June 25, 2020, discount applicable on certain rates and certain establishments. List available from our concierges.
Total price communicated as an indication, based on a stay of the number of nights recommended on this webpage, taking place in the next 3 months, and based on double occupancy (excluding recommended activities, excluding properties not bookable online).
To give you inspiration, Relais & Châteaux presents the Routes du Bonheur:
Suggestions for travel itineraries that you can fully personalise according to your wishes and the experiences you would like to discover. Our consultants are available to help customise your route and assist you in making reservations at our properties. It is up to you to reserve any recommended activities on-site or nearby that might interest you.
** Offer cannot be combined, valid for an itinerary in at least 2 different Relais & Châteaux establishments before December 31, 2021, reserved with Relais & Châteaux concierges from June 25, 2020, discount applicable on certain rates and certain establishments. List available from our concierges.
Call our concierge to tailormade your booking and itinerary*. *Price of a local call
