Top South Island Private and Luxury - page 38

Jade Tours are fun and informative, suited to any level of wine knowledge. We pick you up early afternoon from accommodation in and around Blenheim (pick ups further afield can be arranged at extra cost). Travelling in the comfort of our air-conditioned van, we head to the “golden mile” of vineyards in Rapaura for the first of 3 cellar doors visits. This tour is about wine tasting rather than lunch but offers the option to pre-order a platter if you would like something to eat during the afternoon. We focus on family-owned wineries who are keen to share the story behind their wines. If you have a particular label you want to visit we will try to tailor the itinerary – please enquire. You return to your accommodation between 4:00pm and 4:30 pm (in time for an afternoon nap before dinner).

Explore the exquisite wines of North Canterbury on this small-group tour from Lyttelton (pick up at Cashel Street), hosted by a guide with deep roots in the region’s wine story. Begin your journey with a warm welcome on Cashel Street and enjoy a scenic drive through Christchurch and north to Waipara, accompanied by commentary about the area’s culture, history and vineyards. Your experience is designed by Bruce Thomas, who established an award-winning winery from the ground up and is keen to share his knowledge and love of wine. You’ll gain a genuine understanding of what makes the Waipara Valley so distinctive — from its limestone soils to its cool-climate elegance. Savour a relaxed morning tea made with local ingredients, followed by two boutique winery visits, including a seasonal lunch at a local winery (not included in price). Finish your day at another family-run cellar door, where you’ll taste exceptional small-lot wines that showcase the diversity of this remarkable region.

Witness the stunning beauty of Queenstown’s ski fields as the sun sets in a golden glow during this 40-minute scenic flight. Glide above the iconic peaks of Coronet Peak, Cardrona, and The Remarkables, with expert commentary from seasoned pilots who share local stories. This unforgettable experience offers breath-taking aerial views of snow-covered landscapes and alpine lakes, perfect for photography enthusiasts and winter sports lovers alike. Enjoy complimentary transport to and from your accommodation, making this tour an easy addition to your winter itinerary. - 40minute scenic flight showcasing Queenstown’s ski fields and alpine lakes - Ideal for capturing stunning sunset photos and planning your ski adventures - Complimentary transport provided from most local accommodations

This tour offers a seamless New Zealand experience with 4-star stays, a luxury Mercedes van with a professional driver/guide, and handpicked activities like the Milford Sound cruise, Rotorua spa, and Queenstown adventures—all included. We focus on comfort, local insights, and stress-free travel so you can fully enjoy the best of both North and South Islands.

Discover the wonders of the universe at the renowned Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve in Twizel. With a focus on scientific knowledge, these small-group guided tours offer a unique opportunity to explore the night sky through a large telescope. Your expert guide, with over a decade of astronomical experience, will share insights about stars, planets, and deep-sky phenomena, making this an unforgettable experience for all ages. Enjoy a complimentary astro photo as a keepsake. - Guided by an experienced astronomer with 10+ years in the field - Small groups for a personalized experience (max 10 participants) - 75 to 90-minute tours - Learn about the cosmos through laser-guided tours and telescope observations

Take flight with a 20-minute helicopter ride from Christchurch and arrive in style for a lunch date at a delightful regional winery. There, you can dine at your own expense before taking to the air once more. A maximum of five travelers is allowed, although the ride requires good weather.

1. In Search of the Southern Alps A seven-day, 1,500-kilometre journey in search of landscapes shaped by New Zealand’s Southern Alps. Begin where snow-capped mountains rise from the Pacific, trace the wild West Coast, Canterbury High Country and glacier-carved Mackenzie Basin, and enter Aoraki / Mount Cook and Mount Aspiring National Parks. Follow the mountains and discover the story they have written across the South Island. 2. Walk into Two Worlds Some landscapes need to be walked into. Explore the 3.5-hour Hooker Valley Track, 1-hour Tasman Glacier Lake Track and 4-hour Routeburn Shelter–Routeburn Flats Track. Experience two faces of the Southern Alps — ice, moraines and open alpine scale; forest, rivers and wilderness. Guided walks operate under our DOC concession. 3. Private, Small & Unhurried Travel privately, up to 4 guests, with the freedom to stop, explore and spend more time where it matters — far from the rhythm of large-group touring.

Experience Akaroa your way on a private, fully customizable day tour from Christchurch with Kiwi Coast Travel. Unlike large group tours, you'll enjoy a relaxed pace, personal service, and the flexibility to spend more time at the places you love. Travel in a comfortable, modern vehicle with a knowledgeable local driver-guide as you take in the stunning scenery of Banks Peninsula. Visit the historic Barry's Bay Cheese Factory, enjoy breathtaking viewpoints, explore the charming French-inspired village of Akaroa, and discover local wildlife, boutique shops, cafés, and the beautiful waterfront. With convenient hotel, airport, or cruise port pickup and drop-off included, this private experience offers a comfortable and memorable way to discover one of New Zealand's most picturesque destinations.

Get ready for one of New Zealand’s most unforgettable road trips! This self-guided drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound takes you through the heart of Fiordland a land of snow-capped peaks, mirror-like lakes, roaring waterfalls, and ancient rainforests. Along the way, explore local legends, hidden lookouts, and short scenic walks that capture the raw, untouched beauty of the South Island. Cruise past the Devil’s Staircase, stop at Te Anau, stroll the Mirror Lakes, and end your journey at the spectacular Milford Sound where cliffs rise straight from the sea. Every turn of the road promises a new adventure, a photo-worthy view, and that pure Kiwi magic you’ll never forget.