Wendy Dement
Wendy Dement
New Zealand Wine Country Travel Agent Expert
New Zealand Vineyard Overlooking Hawkes Bay
Are you ready for an escape to one of the most beautiful places on earth? New Zealand is known for some of the most delicious wines available. Sauvignon blanc anyone? Pinot Noirs from Central Otago tend to be some of the best in the world.
Week 1:
North Island
Day 1-3: Arrive in Auckland and check into a luxury hotel or boutique accommodation.Explore the city's vibrant waterfront, visit the Auckland Art Gallery, and take a stroll through the Auckland Domain.Enjoy a romantic dinner at one of Auckland's fine dining restaurants, perhaps with a view of the iconic Sky Tower.
Day 4-6: Hawke's Bay Fly or drive to Hawke's Bay, known for its stunning vineyards and art deco architecture.Stay at a luxury lodge or boutique hotel nestled among the vineyards.Spend your days wine tasting at renowned wineries such as Craggy Range and Elephant Hill.Take a hot air balloon ride over the picturesque landscape at sunrise for a truly unforgettable experience.Enjoy gourmet picnics among the vines and romantic dinners featuring local produce and wines.
Week 2:
South Island
Day 7-9: Fly to Marlborough, New Zealand's largest wine region famous for its Sauvignon Blanc.Stay at a luxury lodge overlooking the Marlborough Sounds. Spend your days touring the region's world-class wineries, such as Cloudy Bay and Villa Maria.Take a scenic cruise or kayak tour of the Marlborough Sounds, exploring secluded bays and wildlife-rich waters.Indulge in a private wine blending experience, where you can create your own signature blend to take home as a memento.
Day 10-12: Fly to Queenstown and transfer to Central Otago, known for its stunning mountain scenery and world-class Pinot Noir.Stay at a luxury lodge overlooking Lake Wakatipu or in the charming town of Arrowtown.Explore the historic gold mining towns of Arrowtown and Cromwell.Spend your days wine tasting in the Gibbston Valley and Cromwell Basin wine regions, visiting renowned wineries like Felton Road and Mt Difficulty. Enjoy romantic dinners at award-winning restaurants, featuring locally sourced ingredients paired with exceptional Central Otago wines.
Day 13-14: Waiheke Island. Fly back to Auckland and take a short ferry ride to Waiheke Island, known for its stunning beaches and boutique wineries.Stay at a luxury resort or private villa overlooking the island's pristine coastline.Spend your days exploring Waiheke's beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and art galleries.Visit local wineries such as Mudbrick and Stonyridge for wine tastings with stunning views.Enjoy a romantic sunset cruise around the island, sipping on local wines and indulging in gourmet snacks.Additional Tips:Consider hiring a private driver or joining guided tours for a hassle-free experience.Book accommodation and activities well in advance, especially during peak seasons.Don't forget to pack comfortable clothing and footwear for exploring vineyards and outdoor activities.Take advantage of romantic experiences such as couples' spa treatments or private dining options offered by luxury lodges and resorts.With this itinerary, you'll have the perfect balance of romance, luxury, and wine experiences to create unforgettable memories in New Zealand's stunning wine country.