Great Kiwi Dirt Experience – Trails and Tastings

15 Days | 12 Nights

Price per person from * $8,099pp *Based on double occupancy
Air/Land Inclusive

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Begin a 12-night culinary and outdoor adventure through New Zealand, exploring breathtaking landscapes and savoring local flavors. From kayaking beneath starlit skies and biking along Wanaka's riverside to indulging in gourmet experiences in Rotorua, Martinborough's wine trails, and fine dining in Kaikoura, this journey blends thrilling outdoor activities with unforgettable food and wine experiences.

  • Round-trip airfare from Los Angeles to Auckland, returning from Queenstown
  • 13 Days Full Size SUV Car Rental including unlimited mileage
  • 13 Nights Superior/Deluxe Accommodation
  • 6 Experiences including Maori Cultural Evening, Gourmet Kayak Tour, Wine Tasting Tour and more
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Waimarino Kayak Tour

Waimarino Kayak Tour

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Lake Wanaka c.Miles Holden

Lake Wanaka c.Miles Holden

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Hapuku Lodge c.Miles Holden

Hapuku Lodge c.Miles Holden

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Kaikoura Seal c.Miles Holden

Kaikoura Seal c.Miles Holden

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Te Pa Tu Welcome

Te Pa Tu Welcome

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Te Pa Tu, Summer Menu

Te Pa Tu, Summer Menu

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Te Pa Tu, Summer Menu

Te Pa Tu, Summer Menu

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Raglan Waikato c.Paul Abbitt

Raglan Waikato c.Paul Abbitt

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Wellington Harbour c.Graeme Murray

Wellington Harbour c.Graeme Murray

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Raglan Roast c.Camilla Rutherford

Raglan Roast c.Camilla Rutherford

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Raglan Waikato c.Camilla Rutherford

Raglan Waikato c.Camilla Rutherford

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Raglan Coffee c.Camilla Rutherford

Raglan Coffee c.Camilla Rutherford

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Rotorua c.Tourism New Zealand

Rotorua c.Tourism New Zealand

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Description

Begin your culinary and outdoor adventure through New Zealand, where breathtaking landscapes and vibrant local flavors await. This journey offers the perfect blend of exploration and indulgence, inviting you to experience the best of New Zealand’s natural beauty and its rich culinary heritage. With a full-size SUV and unlimited mileage, you’ll have the freedom to discover iconic destinations and hidden gems at your own pace.

Start in Raglan, a coastal haven known for its surf culture and stunning sunsets. Settle into the Raglan Sunset Motel for two nights and embark on the Waterfall Wanderer Kayak tour, gliding through serene waters surrounded by lush landscapes. Visit the local Raglan Brewery Company whose goal is to minimize their footprint to create sustainable, quality beverages or grab a cuppa from Te Uku Roast Office to savor the local Raglan Roasters brew (own expense).

Continue to Rotorua, where three nights at the centrally located Regent of Rotorua provide the ideal base for exploration. Walk among ancient giants on the Redwoods Treewalk, and later, paddle under a canopy of stars during the Starlight Gourmet Kayak Tour. The immersive Te Pa Tu Evening Experience offers a deep dive into Māori culture with captivating storytelling and a delectable seasonal feast. Be sure to check out Ani’s Gin Bar & Tapas for an intimate dining experience while enjoying Aotearoa inspired kai (food) and inu (drinks) (own expense).

Travel south to Martinborough, renowned for its world-class vineyards. Spend two nights at The Martinborough Hotel, where wine tastings and gourmet dining await. Packed with colonial charm, Martinborough features over 20 wineries, most within cycling and walking distance of the quaint village square. Some of New Zealand’s best pinot noirs come from the town’s predominately family-owned vineyards.

Next, head to Wellington for a two-night stay at Naumi Wellington. Delight your palate on the Taste Buds for Foodies Tour, sampling local delicacies and culinary creations from the city’s vibrant food scene. Wellington considers itself the coffee capital, with several local roasteries scattered around the city. Head out to Lyall Bay and grab a surfboard or paddleboard for a few hours on the water.

Cross the Cook Strait on the Interislander ferry to Picton, then journey to Kaikoura for a luxurious night at Hapuku Lodge, enjoying locally sourced cuisine. Watch as the chefs prepare your meal and chat with them about their craft, experiencing firsthand our passion for food—from growing it to cooking and presenting it. The Hapuku Kitchen Chef oversees every detail, from harvesting vegetables and herbs from our own gardens to sourcing the finest meat and fish directly from local farmers and fishermen. With seasonal menus crafted to perfection, it's no wonder our guests often say we serve some of the best food in the country.

Continue to Wanaka for two nights at Lime Tree Lodge, where the Wanaka Wine Tours Classic Wine Trail and Riverside Bike Experience combine adventure and indulgence. Head to Kai Kikokiko for the best slow cooked meats in Wanaka (own expense) and dine lakeside watching the sun set.

Conclude your journey in Queenstown at the Heritage Hotel, relaxing in a deluxe room with balcony views. Take an early morning jetboat ride and perhaps try bungy jumping (not included) prior to your afternoon departure.

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Price

Travel Dates

Price*
*Based on double occupancy
May 1, 2025 - Jun 25, 2025 from $8,179pp *
Jun 26, 2025 - Jul 25, 2025 from $8,429pp *
Jul 26, 2025 - Sep 30, 2025 from $8,099pp *
Oct 1, 2025 - Dec 4, 2025 from $8,669pp *

For baggage and optional fee information please click here.

*Prices are quoted in USD and are ‘from’, per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplements apply. Valid for weekday departures and weekend returns Apr 1 - Apr 30, 2025. Transpacific departures Fri – Sun incurs a $50 fee each direction. Advertised pricing reflects low season pricing. Seasonal surcharges apply for travel outside this season. Must be booked by June 30, 2025. Black-out dates apply. Prices are current at the time of posting (2/21/2025) and may differ when you book your travel and are not guaranteed until full payment is received and processed, due to fare increases and currency fluctuations. All pricing is strictly subject to availability. All prices, itineraries and routing are subject to change without notice.  Please call for our current prices. CA CST: 2076233-40 | WA ID: 601 684 531

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Inclusions

  • Round-trip airfare on Air New Zealand from Los Angeles to Auckland, returning from Queenstown
  • 14 Days Group F (Full Size SUV) Car Rental including unlimited mileage
  • 2 nights Raglan, Raglan Sunset Motel, Studio Room
    • Waterfall Wanderer Kayak
  • 2 nights Rotorua, Regent of Rotorua, Boutique Suite
    • Redwoods Treewalk
    • Starlight Gourmet Kayak Tour
    • Te Pa Tu Evening Experience
  • 2 nights Martinborough, The Martinborough Hotel including breakfast
  • 2 nights Wellington, Naumi Wellington, including breakfast
    • Taste Buds for Foodies Tour
  • One-way Interislander ferry from Wellington to Picton for vehicle and 2 adults
  • 1 night Kaikoura, Hapuku Lodge, including breakfast and dinner
  • 2 nights Wanaka, Lime Tree Lodge, Guest Room including breakfast
    • Wanaka Wine Tours Classic Wine Trail
  • Wanaka Bike – Riverside Bike Experience
  • 1 night Queenstown, Heritage Hotel, Deluxe Room with Balcony including breakfast
  • US/foreign taxes and fees including September 11 Security Fee

Exclusions

  • New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) NZ$17 on free APP or NZ$23 if completed online. An IVL fee is NZ$100 is also payable on application.
  • Car Rental excludes additional insurances, petrol, bond, additional drivers (NZ$5+GST per day up to a maximum of NZ$25 +GST for the entire length of rental), Standard Insurance Excess (payable direct) and miscellaneous charges

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Map

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Itinerary

  • Plane Wing 102892839 m normal none WEB

    Day 1 - Depart Los Angeles

    This evening make your way to the Los Angeles Airport for your overnight flight aboard Air New Zealand to Auckland. Enjoy a dining experience full of super fresh ingredients and flavors and an extensive range of premium New Zealand wines to complement each meal. Relax in the ergonomically designed seats that create generous personal space to ensure a comfortable journey. Take control of the on-demand entertainment and enjoy a wide range of audio and video and a collection of the very best in music.

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    Day 2 - International Date Line

    During your flight, you will cross the International Date Line.

  • Raglan Sunset

    Day 3 - Raglan

    On arrival in Auckland, collect your rental car and head south to Raglan, where you will stay for 2 nights.

    • Raglan Sunset Motel  (Superior)
  • 229377 raglan waikato web 2560

    Day 4 - Raglan

    Today join a Waterfall Paddle that takes you on a scenic half-day kayaking journey from Raglan to the hidden Okete Falls, weaving through native bush and farmland. Guided by local experts, you'll explore the falls up close, learn about their history and geology, and relax with a hot drink and slice in a secluded bay overlooking Maunga Karioi.

    There is plenty of time to head to the beach, hire a surfboard and hit the waves or explore Raglan’s best kept secret – their local food and brews.

    • Raglan Sunset Motel  (Superior)
  • 235105 rotorua bay of plenty web 2560

    Day 5 - Rotorua (D)

    The journey from Raglan to Rotorua takes approximately 2.5 hours, offering scenic views of rolling hills and lush countryside. If time permits, stop at Hamilton to explore Hamilton Gardens, a stunning collection of themed gardens perfect for a leisurely stroll. Continue to Cambridge, a charming town known for its boutique shops and cafes, ideal for a coffee break. For a touch of history, visit the Te Awamutu Museum, showcasing local Māori heritage.

    This evening experience Te Pā Tū - a unique 3.5-hour evening experience that evolves with the maramataka, the Māori lunar calendar. Nestled within a forest Pā surrounded by towering Tawa trees and blazing bonfires, guests are immersed in Māori culture through song, drama, and storytelling. Each season brings a new celebration of cultural knowledge, complemented by a lavish 4-course Māori fusion feast, featuring traditional hāngi and seasonal delicacies prepared with modern techniques. Begin with kai horotai (indigenous canapés), followed by a torch-lit walk to an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the land’s rich traditions and flavors.

    • Regent of Rotorua  (Superior)
  • 431664 waimarino kayak tours group on lake

    Day 6 - Rotorua (D)

    Today, visit the Redwoods Treewalk for an unforgettable eco-tourism experience along a 700-meter walkway featuring 28 suspension bridges and 27 platforms, designed to protect the forest's unique ecosystem as the trees grow. Explore the Treewalk at your own pace, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and the grandeur of the majestic redwoods. Along the way, interpretive signs share the forest’s history, cultural significance, and its vital role in supporting the region’s biodiversity.

    This evening, enjoy an enchanting evening paddle across the serene waters of Lake Rotoiti, surrounded by stunning landscapes and the melodic calls of native birdlife. Along the way, hear the captivating Māori myths and legends that bring this magical place to life.

    Your adventure leads to the Manupirua Hot Pools, accessible only by water, where you can soak in soothing geothermal waters while enjoying a freshly grilled BBQ dinner and a classic Kiwi ice cream.

    As night falls, paddle beneath a starlit sky, witnessing the lake's transformation under the moonlight. The journey culminates at a hidden Glowworm Cave, where thousands of tiny lights create a mesmerizing, otherworldly spectacle.

    • Regent of Rotorua  (Superior)
  • Martinborough Vineyard Cheers c.Jeff McEwan

    Day 7 - Martinborough

    The journey from Rotorua to Martinborough takes approximately 5.5 hours, offering a scenic journey through the heart of New Zealand's North Island. Stop enroute at Huka Falls in Taupo, where powerful, turquoise waters cascade over volcanic rock. Continue south to Lake Taupo, perfect for a lakeside lunch with stunning mountain views. As you travel through the Tongariro National Park, take a short detour to Whakapapa Village for breathtaking views of Mount Ruapehu. Stop in Ohakune for a quick snack and explore the charming mountain town. Before reaching Martinborough, pause in Greytown, known for its boutique shops and artisan cafes. This scenic route combines natural wonders, local culture, and delicious pit stops, setting the stage for a memorable stay in Martinborough.

    • The Martinborough Hotel  (Superior)
  • Wairapa Wine Region

    Day 8 - Martinborough (B)

    A full day to explore Martinborough’s culinary and wine scene. Start with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring freshly brewed coffee and pastries made with locally sourced ingredients. Hire a bike and spend the late morning cycling through the picturesque vineyards, visiting boutique wineries for tastings of world-class Pinot Noir and other regional varietals. Pause for lunch at a vineyard restaurant (own expense, enjoying seasonal dishes paired perfectly with estate wines. In the afternoon, explore the charming village center, browsing artisan shops and sampling local cheeses. As evening approaches, indulge in a gourmet dinner at one of Martinborough's acclaimed eateries (own expense), where innovative chefs showcase the best of the region’s produce.

    • The Martinborough Hotel  (Superior)
  • Wellington Sunset over City

    Day 9 - Wellington (B)

    Your drive from Martinborough to Wellington takes about 1.5 hours, winding through scenic countryside and lush valleys. Begin with a stop in Featherston to visit local bookshops and grab a coffee before continuing through the picturesque Rimutaka Ranges, where panoramic views await. As you descend into the Hutt Valley, consider a brief detour to Petone for a stroll along the waterfront or a visit to the vibrant cafes before arriving in Wellington.

    • Naumi Hotel Wellington  (Superior)
  • Te Aro Wellington c.Miles HoldenR

    Day 10 - Wellington (B,L)

    Join a small group today for a culinary journey in Wellington's foodie hub, exploring Egmont St and Hannahs Laneway, where you’ll find a hidden gem selling locally-made peanut butter. Continue to Dark Horse Coffee, where you’ll learn about the coffee-making process from shrub to cup, witness a live coffee roast, and enjoy a guided tasting session.

    Next, visit La Marche Francais, known for its exquisite selection of French and local cheeses, and savor three contrasting varieties. Head to La Bella Italia in Petone for lunch, indulging in a platter of cured meats paired with pizza bread and a glass of Italian wine.

    Your sweet tooth is in for a treat at The Chocolate Story, where you’ll meet the resident chocolatier for a tasting and a chocolate-making lesson. In the afternoon, journey to Brewtown in Upper Hutt, sampling award-winning craft beers, gin, or whisky while learning from the experts. The tour wraps up with a relaxed ride back to your chosen Wellington location by 4:30 pm, leaving you well-fed and refreshed.

    • Naumi Hotel Wellington  (Superior)
  • TNZ CAN Kaikoura MH 021

    Day 11 - Kaikoura (B,D)

    Make your way to the Interislander ferry terminal for your morning transfer to Picton. The scenic journey through the stunning Cook Strait, offers breathtaking views of rugged coastlines and crystal-clear waters. As you approach Picton, sail through the picturesque Marlborough Sounds, where lush, forested hills meet tranquil blue bays. Disembark and travel down the Pacific Coast Highway to Kaikoura, the 2.5-hour drive offers plenty of scenic lookouts along the way to spot seals and take in the sights.

    This evening, you will be treated to a stay at the stunning Hapuku Lodge + Treehouses and a 3-course gourmet, farm to table & ocean dinner at Hapuku Kitchen.

    • Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses  (Deluxe)
  • Wanaka 152891922 l.c wintan29

    Day 12 - Wanaka (B)

    Enjoy a scenic drive from Kaikoura to Wanaka, showcasing the diverse landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island. Start by traveling through the Canterbury Plains, with sweeping views of farmland and distant mountains. Stop in Christchurch for a coffee break or lunch before continuing through the dramatic Mackenzie Basin, where turquoise lakes like Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki reflect the majestic Southern Alps. As you approach Wanaka, the road winds through the Lindis Pass, offering breathtaking views of golden tussock-covered hills, setting the scene for adventure and relaxation by the lake.

    • Lime Tree Lodge  (Deluxe)
  • Wanaka Otago c.Miles Holden

    Day 13 - Wanaka (B,L)

    Join a small group tour, visiting 6 award-winning vineyards in Central Otago. Your day includes up to 30 tastings and a delicious barrel cooked, five course banquet lunch matched with wine.

    • Lime Tree Lodge  (Deluxe)
  • Queenstown in the Spring 173152 c.Queenstown Tourism

    Day 14 - Queenstown (B)

    This morning, join an expert guide for an unforgettable tour along the Upper Clutha River Track, New Zealand’s largest and most powerful river. Learn about the river’s history, significance, and its role in Wanaka and New Zealand, all while enjoying the dramatic scenery. Every group member will be equipped with our high-performance e-bikes, perfect for tackling the track. The trail is suitable for those with off-road biking experience, offering a moderate grade that is not overly technical. 

    After an exciting morning in Wanaka, enjoy a scenic 1-hour drive to Queenstown via the scenic Crown Range Road, New Zealand’s highest road.

    • Millennium Queenstown  (Superior)
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    Day 15 - Depart Queenstown (B)

    Enjoy a leisurely morning in Queenstown before heading to the airport to drop off your rental vehicle and board your return flight to Los Angeles via Auckland.


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