South Island Luxury Programme

New Zealand 8 nights/ 9 days

Valid 01 October 2010 – 31 March 2011

Serene Abel Tasman National Park

OVERVIEW

SUGGESTED LOCATIONS Otahuna Lodge, Christchurch 2 nights Hapuku Lodge, Kaikoura 2 nights

Timara Lodge, Blenheim 2 nights Split Apple Retreat, Abel Tasman National Park 2 nights

Day 1 Arrive Christchurch

Haere Mai and Welcome to New Zealand!

Arrive Christchurch from Australia and make your way to the rental vehicle counter.

Complete the necessary paperwork relating to your rental hire. Rental Vehicle Details – Toyota Highlander 2.4L 5 Door 4WD or similar; includes airport collection fee, full insurance cover and insurance excess reduction (reduces excess to nil)

Make your way to your accommodation situated near the rural settlement of Tai Tapu, a thirty minute drive from the airport.

Christchurch, justifiably known as the Garden City and as New Zealand’s most English city is also the gateway to and the biggest metropolis of the South Island. In the central city, the cathedral and other beautifully preserved Gothic architecture is complemented by tree lined avenues, the gently meandering Avon River and the sprawling green playing fields and botanic gardens of Hagley Park, rated among the top ten botanic gardens in the world. You have myriad choices to explore here. The city’s stunning new art gallery features international and New Zealand artwork dating back centuries. Overlooking the city are the old volcanic hills of Banks Peninsula, and close by is the quaint, French- influenced town of Akaroa, where you can join a wildlife cruise and discover penguins, seals, seabirds and the world’s smallest and rarest dolphins. Beside Christchurch International Airport, a major departure point for Antarctica, is the International Antarctic Centre, which has been judged New Zealand’s top visitor attraction. The city caters well for golfers, with three of the country’s top courses Russley, Terrace Downs and Clearwater all nearby. If you are seeking more serious adventure balloon flights, tandem skydiving and jet boat tours provide the added bonus of views of the Southern Alps, backdrop to the city. For wining, dining and entertainment there are boutique breweries, themed pubs, international hotels with award winning restaurants, a casino, and New Zealand’s fastest growing wine region in the immediate vicinity.

Day 1

Arrive Christchurch ... (Cont.)

Otahuna Lodge estate, one of New Zealand’s most important historic homes simply oozes charm and character, Secluded by magnificent, century-old gardens and located just outside Christchurch, the three-storey stately home was built in 1895 for Canterbury pioneer Sir Heaton Rhodes and is among the finest examples of Queen Anne architecture in Australasia. In 2007, the Lodge underwent a significant four-month renovation that included the complete refurbishment of all the suites, the public areas and restoration of the beautiful 30-acre garden. Lovingly restored to its original grandeur, as well as boasting all the modern amenities expected of an exclusive lodge, Otahuna offers discerning travellers an experience that is about more than just luxury. The Victorian interior appears much as it was when the house was built, with the modern touches blending seamlessly in its seven suites. Super-king size beds and spectacular views complement the elegant ambience, while the rooms feature original fireplaces – some in the en-suite bathrooms. Experience Otahuna and you enter a world of understated sophistication. Attention to detail is noticeable everywhere you look. The cuisine is honest with uncluttered flavours, the finest local ingredients and elegantly restrained presentation. The spectacular 110-year old gardens were laid out and cultivated under the direction of A. E. Lowe who trained at Kew Gardens, London. Wide vistas over lawn and lake contrast beautifully with intimate walks which wind through heavily wooded areas.

Accommodation Room Type Inclusions Notes

Otahuna Lodge, Christchurch www.otahuna.co.nz 2 nights

King Suite Breakfast, pre-dinner drinks &

canapés, gourmet dinner and full access

to all lodge facilities.

Day 2 Leisure Time

Leisure Day

Today is at leisure to enjoy the facilities at your accommodation or to explore further afield.

Enjoy a bike ride to nearby Tai Tapu, explore the gardens or take a drive to the French settlement of Akaroa; which is also home to the Hectors Dolphins.

Croquet Croquet has always been a favorite pastime of the aristocracy in the British colonies and a game can still be enjoyed at Otahuna Lodge. At teatime, it is not uncommon to find guests out on the lawn with a glass of New Zealand wine in one hand and a croquet mallet in the other. Petanque is also available. Cycling Otahuna Lodge offers complimentary use of Marin mountain bikes fitted with road tyres which are ideal for biking around the estate and exploring dappled country lanes. Routes are available to suit a range of experience levels. A leisurely jaunt may take guests a few kilometres to a local café, while the Port Hills will challenge even the most experienced mountain bikers. Gymnasium The exercise room is located in the historic laundry rooms of the estate. The gym offers free weights, a stationary bicycle, an elliptical machine and a rowing machine. Maps are also available for jogging and walking through the local countryside.

Massage After a busy day exploring Canterbury, guests may enjoy the benefits of luxury accommodation by indulging in a relaxing or therapeutic massage. Therapists provide a range of treatments, styles and pressures to accommodate a wide variety of preferences. Swimming Pool A dip in the swimming pool will provide cool relief from Canterbury’s warm summer breezes. The swimming pool is heated from October to the end of April and is maintained at a constant 25°C (78°F). The outdoor spa pool is heated to 38°C (101F°) year round and is a magical spot from which to star-gaze or contemplate the hills. Tennis Otahuna has its own hard-surface tennis court and provides complimentary use of racquets and balls. Staff can book professional coaches to give lessons on-site. Guided Garden Tour Garden lovers and botanists will enjoy a complimentary guided tour of the estate’s garden. Every season offers an interesting variety in Otahuna’s gardens, from the daffodil paddocks in September through to the spectacular oranges and golds of autumn foliage in May and, even in winter, evergreen trees whose bright red berries attract rare New Zealand wood pigeons. Tours can also be arranged of other nearby award-winning gardens.’

Day 3 Christchurch - Kaikoura

Today’s Outline

Farewell your hosts and self drive to Kaikoura; a journey of approximately 3 ½ hours.

Kaikoura is a base for wildlife experiences of all kinds – it’s also a great place to eat crayfish (in the Maori language kai means food, koura means crayfish). The environment is truly spectacular – the village is caught between the rugged Seaward Kaikoura Range and the Pacific Ocean. In winter the mountains are covered with snow, adding to the drama of the landscape. Kaikoura’s special talent is marine mammal encounters – whales, fur seals and dolphins live permanently in the coastal waters. Whale watching trips leave the town several times a day and the local seal colony is always entertaining. There are plenty of cafes, restaurants and shops dotted around the village, all within easy walking distance of each other.

Hapuku Lodge and Treehouses is surrounded by New Zealand native trees and plants nestled between the mountains and Pacific Ocean and set amongst a totally organic garden Hapuku has been designed to provide a microcosm of the surrounding environment; with six guest rooms, magnificent eco-treehouses and a separate apartment, the lodge also shares the land with a top quality deer stud, and oil-producing olive grove. The much talked about Treehouses, nested in the branches of the Manuka grove were designed by owner Tony Wilson and his brother, Peter Wilson and compliment the spectacular surrounding environment. A unique accommodation experience of sleeping amongst the branches is matched with the luxury of our custom-crafted and ultra-comfy king bed, large spa bath and efficient Danish log-burning fireplaces. Wide-screen televisions, Bose and Ipod stereo systems, rain-fountain showers and heated floors complete the high-level of guest comfort. With stunning mountain and sea views, the individual TreeHouses are named after the native birds which have quickly adjusted to their new neighbours in the trees.

Accommodation Room Type Inclusions Notes

Hapuku Lodge, Kaikoura www.hapukulodge.com 2 nights

Upper Treehouse Full Breakfast and TDH dinner

Crayfish dinner options are not included in tariff and are additional.

Day 4 Whale Watching in Kaikoura

Today’s Outline

Make your way to the Whale Way Station for your Whale Watching Experience (allow 3.5 hours total).

The remainder of your day is at leisure – enjoy a crayfish lunch or simply relax in the serene surroundings of your accommodation.

Whale Watching Experience (included in itinerary costing)

Kaikoura is New Zealand's world famous whale watching destination. Sperm Whales can be seen here year-round while 7 other whale species visit regularly. Today you will join one of these unique tours to experience the magnificence of these ocean giants. Every Whale Watch tour is a unique experience and the sightings vary. Giant Sperm Whales are the stars of the show and year-round residents. A typical Whale Watch tour may encounter New Zealand Fur Seals, pods of Dusky Dolphins and the endangered Wandering Albatross. Depending on the season you may also see migrating Humpback Whales, Pilot Whales, Blue Whales and Southern Right Whales. Kaikoura often hosts the world's largest dolphin - the Orca - and is home to the world's smallest and rarest - the Hector's. Kaikoura also attracts the largest concentration and variety of seabirds on mainland New Zealand including 13 species of Albatross, 14 varieties of Petrels and 7 types of Shearwater.

Day 5 Kaikoura - Blenheim

Today’s Outline

Farewell your hosts this morning as you head north to Blenheim; a scenic journey of approximately 2 hours.

Perhaps enjoy a tasty lunch at Brancott Winery before heading to your accommodation.

Marlborough holds international acclaim for being one of the finest wine regions in the world. A series of accommodation options are ideally situated near the vineyards for a tour of the nearby wineries. Other activities could include walking on the Queen Charlotte track or cruise the spectacular waters of the Marlborough Sounds. Perhaps take in a round of golf on one of the excellent golf courses that may be found in close proximity to your accommodation. In winter, Rainbow ski field offers excellent skiing with terrain suited for all abilities. Transport can be arranged which takes approximately 90 minutes along the scenic Wairau Valley. Blenheim has many superb restaurants providing a wide variety of cuisine, while lunches and evening meals are also served at a number of the local wineries.

Timara Lodge is set amongst 600 acres of land, including 25 acres of one of New Zealand's most beautiful English style gardens and a five-acre, man-made lake. Adjoining the gardens is the 350-acre Spy Valley vineyard and winery. All rooms have picturesque views of either the magnificent gardens; stunning man-made lake or the distant magical mountains. Choose from four charming rooms with king beds and en suite bathrooms, some with spa baths and a private sitting area. The rooms feature fine art and antiques and the quality furnishings are modern and tasteful, instilling a sense of utter luxury, right down to the softest Italian linen.

Accommodation Room Type Inclusions Notes

Timara Lodge, Blenheim www.timara.co.nz 2 nights

Garden or Lakeview Suite

Pre-dinner drinks with hors d'oeuvres Four-course dinner with wine Full Breakfast

Day 6 Leisure Time

Leisure Day

Today is at leisure to explore the region at your own pace.

Blenheim is the place to visit if you’re a food and wine devotee. The area holds international acclaim for being one of the finest wine regions in the world producing amazing sauvignon blanc.

Suggestions for today would include: o Queen Charlotte Walking Track - Take a guided walk in the tranquil Marlborough Sounds along the Queen

Charlotte Walkway, including lunch and boat transfers. o Fishing - Take a whole or half day fishing charter offering sightseeing, entertainment and exploration. An

experienced fishing guide can show you how to catch Blue Cod, Terakihi or Kingfish. o Scenic Helicopter flights - A helicopter provides the ideal way to view the intricate maze of waterways that

make up the Marlborough Sounds. o Lunch in the Sounds - Award winning restaurants set amongst native bush with the sea lapping the foreshore,

offer the perfect place to enjoy lunch out in the Sounds. Combine this with a helicopter flight or take a boat charter, either way it makes for a wonderful day on the water.

o Boat Charters - View varied sights from friendly dolphins to industries such as mussel and salmon farms or just find a deserted bay in which to anchor for lunch.

o Golf - Full day golf packages offering 9-18 holes and a scenic cruise of the Marlborough Sounds. o Dolphin watching - View some of the local residents of the Sounds in their natural habitat from the comfort of

a boat. o Kayaking or Mountain Biking - Take a guided or independent trip from Picton.

Day 7 Blenheim – Abel Tasman (near Nelson)

Today’s Outline

Farewell your hosts as you make your way to Nelson via Havelock.

The drive time to Havelock is approximately 40 minutes.

1.15pm: Check in at the Havelock Marina for your cruise experience

4.30pm: On conclusion of your cruise continue to your accommodation in Nelson, a journey of approximately 2hrs.

Greenshell Mussell Cruise (included in itinerary costing)

This afternoon depart Havelock on the Marlborough Travel launch for the Greenshell Mussel Cruise through the Marlborough Sounds. Take in the natural beauty of the native bush and the tranquility of the Sounds. Learn from your experienced Skipper the history of the Marlborough Sounds and the history of the pioneering families who have settled in the Sounds over 6 generations. Visit a Greenshell™ Mussel farm and learn why this delicacy grows so well in the Marlborough Sounds. Taste a local favourite – freshly steamed Mussels matched perfectly to a complimentary glass of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. On arrival back in Havelock make your way to Nelson.

With oceanfront views, Split Apple Retreat is beautifully positioned on spectacular Abel Tasman National Park, bringing a new level of luxury and harmony to the sunny South Island location. Dedicated to wellness, Split Apple Retreat was designed with one thing in mind - to provide guests with elegant and pleasing lifestyle adjustments that can be incorporated into their lives upon departure, while at the same time providing them with absolute luxury and exclusivity. With only three rooms, the guests every care is catered for, ensuring that health and relaxation is at the forefront of any stay, whilst still being able to enjoy the creature comforts within the Retreat and beyond in to the Park. Every ingredient in the meals served has a function contributing to optimal health and longevity.

Accommodation Room Types Inclusions Notes

Split Apple Retreat, Abel Tasman www.splitappleretreat.com 3 nights

1 x Double Lotus Suite

All meals included

Day 8 Leisure Time

Leisure Day

Today is at leisure to explore the region at your own pace.

A must do experience for visitors to Nelson is to walk and cruise through the Abel Tasman National Park. This can be guided or a freedom experience utilizing the water taxi services.

Nelson is also famed for its eclectic collection of artists. Take the Art Trail and explore the works of these talented residents.

Your day can be completed with a tasting or two at the nearby vineyards. A region famed for its Chardonnay, Riesling and Pinot Gris, Nelson will delight all wine lovers.

The Abel Tasman National Park, simply put, is an outdoor buff's paradise. With magnificent foliage lining pristine beaches and crystal clear water lapping at golden sand, you can be forgiven for thinking you have found ecstasy. The Park is a walkers’ paradise - spend time exploring the 50 kilometres of awesome coastline. Located at the top of the South Island near Motueka and Kaiteriteri, and only a couple of hours drive from Nelson, this small slice of heaven is accessible and inviting to New Zealanders and tourists alike. Named after the Dutch seafarer Abel Tasman who first visited the area in 1642, the Abel Tasman National Park was opened in 1942 - the 300th anniversary of his visit. The most noticeable features of this park are the golden sandy beaches, the fascinating rocky outcrops (mainly granite but with a scattering of limestone and marble) and the rich, unmodified estuaries. The landscape has been modified, perhaps more than in our other national parks. The vegetation cover varies and reflects a history of fires and land clearance, but the forests are regenerating well especially in damp gullies where a rich variety of plants can be found. Black beech dominates the drier ridges. The more common forest birds, like fantails, tui and bellbirds, can be seen along with pukeko around the estuaries and wetlands. The park's boundary excludes the estuaries and seabed but in 1993 the Tonga Island Marine Reserve was created along one part of the Abel Tasman coast. Like a national park, all life in the reserve is protected.

Day 8 Leisure Time … (Cont.)

Naturally high sunshine hours, diverse terrain and varying soil types are like a blank canvas for Nelson’s winemakers, who are every bit as aware of the artistic aspect to their craft as the exacting, scientific one. Different expressions of Nelson wine include full-bodied, cool climate chardonnay, succulent sauvignon blanc, promising pinot noir and racy riesling. Many winemakers are pioneering pinot gris, syrah and unusual revivals of lesser-known grapes like zweigelt, but one thing every winemaker in the region has in common is an ability to make top-tasting wine from a range of different grapes. This strength belongs as much to the region’s plentiful sunshine and wide diurnal swing – that change between day and night-time temperatures, which gives the region a long, relatively cool ripening season – as it does to talented winemakers.

Another place of interest to visit would be Höglund Art Glass Höglund Art Glass – International Glass Centre offers a unique experience to glass lovers and those interested in glass art. The Centre is set within 7-acres of tranquil gardens, in the creative haven of the Nelson region, just 20-minutes drive from Nelson City. And The World of WearableArt & Classic Cars Museum This museum welcomes over 60,000 local, national and international visitors each year. This unique visitor attraction ensures Nelson is firmly established as the birthplace of the WOW concept and enables visitors to experience the special WOW experience all year round. The museum provides visitors with the opportunity to view the historic garment collection in a unique setting. You can enjoy the detail and craftsmanship that designers invest into their garments while also experiencing a theatrical atmosphere with music, lighting and a moving carousel.

Day 9

Departure Day

Departure Day

Farewell your hosts as you make your way to Nelson Airport.

Return your rental vehicle and depart Nelson to Australia (via Wellington, Christchurch or Auckland)