After two years of closed borders and having to postpone this tour twice, I was thrilled this trip finally became a reality! Along with some of the world’s most stunning vistas, meeting a Māori tribe and experiencing outstanding food & wine, New Zealand is truly everything you expect. It is a country that draws you in and captivates. We covered almost 2000 miles in 19 days going from the North to South Island. These are landscapes and experiences that cannot be truly captured in photos – but I will try to give you some of the highlights…

 

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Auckland

 

America’s Cup Sailing Experience

We had the unique opportunity to participate as crew (or sit back and relax) on an America’s Cup yacht. Guests were able to take the helm or exert energy on the grinders at the direction of professional crew in Auckland’s Waitematā Harbor. I’ve sailed quite a bit but I really want to emphasize how fast these boats are. Wow! The entire experience was exhilarating!

 

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Welcome Dinner at The Sugar Club

Dinner at The Sugar Club in Sky Tower 53 floors above Auckland was a chic and elegant experience with stunning views of the harbor. We even had a fireworks display that evening! The lemon dessert will live on in my memory. That looks like a lemon but is really creamy lemon mousse goodness in a lemon shape coated in crispy white chocolate – served with pistachio ice cream…in my view, one of the best dishes on the entire trip. I wish I had the recipe…

 

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Wine Tasting on Waiheke Island
Casita Miró Vineyards

The minute you step off the ferry from Auckland to Waiheke Island, you sense that this is a special (and privileged) place. It’s about the ocean, the setting of vineyards, the homes, gardens, quaint towns and, of course, the wine. Casita Miró was our first introduction to Waiheke wines. This is a winery showcasing authentic Spanish cuisine in Gaudi-Dali-Miró-inspired architectural gardens. The entire setting, the tasting experience and the wines were a delight.

 

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Wine Tasting on Waiheke Island
Mudbrick Vineyard

Mudbrick Vineyard is known as one of the best places to dine and enjoy fine wine in and around Auckland. It must be so because Dua Lipa had reserved one of their restaurants the same day for her family (we didn’t see her). This is an absolutely stunning venue offering gold-medal wines. The vineyards, grounds, restaurant and chef’s garden look out toward Huruhi Bay providing beautiful ocean views back toward Auckland. Do not miss this if ever in New Zealand!

 

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A LOT of Driving

We clocked many miles on this trip. Around every curve was more beautiful scenery. Most of both islands is lush green. If you want to visit New Zealand and drive yourself, the effort is well worth it.

 

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Māori Cultural Exchange
Rotorua, North Island

This family-owned experience gave beautiful insight into traditional Maori culture, history and traditions. We were warmly welcomed as extended family from the moment we stepped onto their meeting grounds (marae). Through songs and storytelling from the elders, we learned about this fascinating culture. After a welcome ceremony at the marae, we took a 4WD excursion to a tribal meeting place in the hills overlooking Lake Rotoiti. This woman’s tattooed wedding ring tells a story about her spouse and each of her children as does every tattoo in this tribe. Family and ancestors are everything in the Māori culture along with respect and being stewards of the land.

 

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Te Puia Thermal Wonderland & the Māori Arts & Crafts Institute
Rotorua (North Island)

Te Puia is a Māori park and cultural center in the Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley. It is a wonderland of shooting geysers, steaming vents, bubbling mud pools and is also home to the Māori Arts & Crafts Institute. The institute teaches traditional greenstone (New Zealand jade) carving, bone carving, woodcarving and weaving. Rescued kiwi birds are given a home here. We enjoyed a hangi dinner with meat cooked over steam vents as well a haka. This is a group ceremonial war dance that showcases a tribe’s pride, strength and unity. Actions in the haka include stomping of the feet and rhythmic body slapping, bulging eyes and protruded tongues set to a chant – all meant to fend off invaders. Imagine meeting up to 500 of these fierce warriors at one time…who wouldn’t want to retreat?

 

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Wellington
North Island

A day in Wellington (on the southern tip of the North Island) must include a visit to Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum. This is an interactive museum..it is visual, contemporary and bicultural. Te Papa Tongarewa literally transaltes to ‘container of treasures’. You can’t see it in one day or even one week – don’t miss this either if ever in New Zealand.

 

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Ferry Crossing through Marlborough Sounds
North to South Island (Wellington to Picton)

The 3-1/2 hour Interislander Cook Strait ferry is worth taking the time vs. flying between islands. The scenery through Marlborough Sounds as you enter the South Island is absolutely breathtaking – even on a cloudy day.

 

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Marlborough Wine Region
South Island

New Zealand is probably best known for its Marlborough wine region on the South Island which has put New Zealand white wines on the world stage. We tasted sauvignon blanc and chardonnay and enjoyed a delicious lunch of local fresh fish at Rock Ferry Vineyard. We also tasted at Fromm Winery. There was a reserved wine festival going on the day we were there preventing us from visiting other more well-known wineries, but these experiences were nevertheless enjoyable. This wine region is beautiful, to be sure.

 

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Abel Tasman National Park
South Island

Abel Tasman National Park on the north coast of the South Island is some kind of piece of heaven….gorgeous gold sand beaches set against native bush. We took a cruise, a hike and enjoyed a bit of kayaking along the coast.

 

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Pancake Rocks & Blowholes (Punakaki)
South Island

Traveling southward along Coast Road (west coast of the South Island) led us to the spectacular Pancake Rocks & Blowholes. Set along the Tasman Sea, these are heavily eroded limestone formations made with fragments of dead marine creatures and plants that landed on the seabed below the surface 30 million years ago. The immense water pressure over time caused the fragments to solidify into hard layers that gradually rose above sea level. They are striking to see along with the mesmerizing blowholes that spray mist among the rocks.

 

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Franz Josef Glacier
South Island

Franz Josef Glacier is one of only two glaciers in the world surrounded by rainforest. Sady, the glacier is retreating at a fast rate. Some guests hiked as far as they could go and viewed the glacier from a distance. Those that took a helicopter ride to the glacier were treated to amazing views and an exhilarating experience. Love those smiles!

 

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Milford Sound
Fiordland National Park
South Island

Milford Sound is simply to be experienced. Photos and video cannot do it justice. It rains 90% of the time in Milford Sound. We happened to capture it on a cloudy day without rain – in my view, making the scenery even more dramatic. The cruise took us to inlets where we saw penguins, dolphins and seals on the shore. The cheeky Kea (New Zealand’s alpine parrot) landed on our coach when we made a stop en route to Milford Sound. This area is remote and rugged. I had to pick my jaw up as we cruised through the fiords. It is amazing and an absolute must-see on any trip to New Zealand.

 

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Lunch at a Locals Hangout
Hard Antler’s Bar

Any good trip has to have local color. This was it. Our guide made a stop at Hard Antler’s Restaurant for good old New Zealand fish ‘n chips, burgers, fish chowder, craft beer and darts.

 

 

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Queenstown
South Island

Our tour ended in Queenstown – the ‘adventure capital of New Zealand’. This is a beautiful city on Lake Wakatipu set against the Remarkables Range. Bungy jumping, skydiving, paragliding and much more is offered everywhere (note the paraglider in the gondola photo). Flame Bar & Grill is the local’s place-to-be seen in Queenstown. Everyone enjoyed their free time in Queenstown and we did. Two guests opted to flyfish: Mike caught an 8-pound trout and Mary’s trout broke her rod – this, on the same day they flew home. It’s all here – whatever you choose to do.

The last photo is from our Farewell 8-course ‘ Trust the Chef’ Degustation Luncheon at Amisfield Winery. Every dish was also an art installation. This course dubbed the ‘garden wall’ was set on the side of a bowl. The chef a this winery is inspired by nature and memories of his childhood. Made of an underlayer of local goat cheese covered in ground parsley, asparagus bites made to look like logs, perfectly-placed edible flowers and herbed ice, it was ‘the dish’ to end a remarkable journey.

Final Thought…Go to New Zealand – everyone should experience this country at least once in their lifetime!

New Zealand is one of the most sought-after destinations in the world. With snow-capped mountains, stunning beaches, ancient glaciers, rainforests, fiords, a rich history, copious amounts of wine and cutting-edge cuisine, it doesn’t get much better. In short, everyone should visit New Zealand at least once in their lifetime. Here’s why…

 

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Kiwi People

Kiwis – the name derives from the kiwi bird, the native flightless bird that is the national symbol of New Zealand. New Zealanders are known as Kiwis – an endearing name for its people. Kiwis are friendly and down-to-earth people who embrace the spirit of hospitality. With a patchwork history of Māori, European, Pacific Islands and Asian influences, the Kiwis are a melting pot of cultures. Kiwis share in the values of politeness, caring and supporting each other. They love the great outdoors and delight in activities that make the most of their spectacular landscapes. How can you embrace the spirit of the Kiwi people? Strike up a conversation and see what happens!

 

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Indigenous Maori People

There aren’t many places in the world that preserve and respect their indigenous culture as New Zealand. The Māori were the first inhabitants of New Zealand arriving over 1000 years ago. Originating from Polynesia, the Māori culture influences the history, language, arts and traditions of New Zealand’s identity. Learn about their fascinating myths and legends from passionate Māori guides, visit a ‘marae’ (meeting/celebration grounds), watch a cultural performance or observe Māori woodcarvers and weavers at work.

 

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Beautiful Beaches

Countless amazing beaches line the coastline of New Zealand. The islands are known for their jaw-dropping stretches of sand and azure waters. From the whitest sand beach (then kick it up a notch) to beautiful golden sand beaches to those that look you are in Thailand, the choices are incredibly scenic and inspiring. They are often framed by hiking trails, lush forests, giant ferns, volcanic rock, vineyards and cityscapes.

 

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World Famous Wines

Much of the fame with New Zealand wines comes from the Malborough region on South Island and one varietal – Sauvignon Blanc. Other regions that produce notable wines are: Hawkes Bay (Bordeaux-style reds, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris), Central Otago (Pinot Noir, Rosé) and Waiheke Island (reds and whites).

 

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Glaciers

There are many glaciers in New Zealand. Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers are the largest and located relatively close to each other on the west coast of South Island. They descend down from the Southern Alps and flow almost to sea level. They are the only two glaciers in the world surrounded by rainforest. Visitors can hike to the base of the glaciers, take a scenic helicopter ride, walk on the top or heli-ice climb.

 

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Native Wildlife

New Zealand is home to some of the most diverse wildlife you’ll ever see. Native birds, marine mammals (whales, dolphins, sea lions, fur seals, yellow-eyed penguins), fish and reptiles – are some of the many unique critters to discover. The iconic kiwi (lower case if talking about birds vs. humans), is flightless, has hair-like feather and strong legs but no tail. New Zealand is known as the seabird capital of the world and is also home to forest birds that live nowhere else on earth. There are no snakes, deadly spiders, killer jellyfish or other venomous creepy crawlies in New Zealand.

 

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New Zealand Lamb

In New Zealand, there are more sheep than people. New Zealand is the main producer of lamb in the world. Lamb from New Zealand is smaller than American lamb. It is grass-fed throughout its life and tends to have a more pronounced flavor. It is slaughtered at a younger age. So, despite a lack of grain feeding and lesser marbling, it is tender and delicious.

 

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Walks and Hikes

Walking and hiking in New Zealand is the best way to see/explore the wilderness and variety of landscapes. With thousands of miles of tracks, there are walking and hiking experiences to suit all levels of fitness. Welcome to a walker’s paradise, where a network of trails wind past rugged coastlines, through farmlands, river valleys, towering forests, around lakes and dramatic mountain ranges. If there is a special place or something remarkable to see, you can be sure there’s a short walk or day hike close by.

 

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Aoraki Mount Cook

Aoraki (Māori for ‘cloud piercer’) Mount Cook National Park is New Zealand’s Mount Everest. At 12,218 feet, It is alpine in the purest sense. The area boasts skyscraping peaks, glaciers and permanent show fields. Although Mount Cook (in the Southern Alps range) encompasses 23 peaks almost 10,000 feet high, it is very accessible. Mountaineers, heli-skiers and skiers love this region while less skilled adventurers find plenty of satisfaction with the mountain walks that lead to alpine meadows, herb fields and spectacular glacier views. Encounters with the ‘kea’ (mountain parrots) are part of the fun.

 

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Wine & Cheese Tasting

Taste your way around New Zealand and you’ll discover food and wine that’s original, world-class and fresh from the source. Kiwis have developed a discerning palate when it comes to wine reflected in the number of high-quality wineries and vineyards throughout the country. New Zealand is also famous for its cheeses. Hard cheese, soft cheese, blue cheese and everything in between are produced locally and enjoyed with domestic wines. 

 

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Pristine Lakes

New Zealand’s crystal blue lakes will astound anyone who sees them. New Zealand has the largest collection of the most beautiful rivers and lakes in the world. From serene waters to hot springs to geothermal pools, the natural beauty is unparalleled. Lakes in New Zealand will make you believe in heaven!

 

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Fresh Seafood

Fresh, diverse and delicious – Kiwis love their food. With over 8600 miles of coastline, New Zealand offers some of the most amazizng seafood. Talented chefs have developed a distinct Pacific Rim cuisine. Expect to indulge in plenty of seafood like fresh fish, Green-Lipped, mussels, Rock lobster, Bluff oysters, scallops and abalone. Crayfish and Mt. Cook Salmon are freshwater options. Enjoy the friendly, laidback atmosphere wherever you eat. Although there are many gourmet restaurants, Kiwis still love to keep things light.

 

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Fiordland

Fiordland is one of the most dramatic and breathtaking regions of New Zealand. Fiordland National Park is the UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes Milford, Dusky and Doubtful Sounds. Milford Sound was described by Rudyard Kipling as the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’. Situated on the west coast of South Island, hours from the nearest town, is Milford Sound where plunging cliffs and cascading waterfalls meet inky dark waters. Within the steep and narrow glacially-carved valleys is a treasure-trove of ecological delights. Watch dolphins, seals and penguins play in the water or sit under the waterfalls. The waterfalls are especially spectacular on rainy days. Milford Sound is the ‘gem’ of New Zealand!

 

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Manuka Honey

In the forests of New Zealand, bees collect nectar from the Manuka flower which only blooms a few weeks a year. Manuka honey is becoming increasingly revered by natural health consumers around the world. The Māori have used Manuka honey for its therapeutic and medicinal abilities for centuries. It has been shown to have antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Nature’s most powerful honey is used for immune support, digestive and gut health, antioxidant protection, for soothing coughs/sore throats and for increased energy. When sterilized, it can be used for healing infections and wounds.

 

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Lush Forests & Waterfalls

New Zealand is a land of rivers, mountains and lakes. So, it naturally has forests and many amazing waterfalls. Some are an easy stop on the road and others require a hike. Some can be swum in while others can only be viewed from a distance. Spilling from high mountain lakes or tumbling over rocky river beds, shrouded by damp native forest or cascading over steep cliffs, New Zealand’s waterfalls offer something for everyone. Forests cover 20% of the total land area. Most of that is indigenous forest which is protected and not harvested. The Kauri forests are a green world of huge ancient towering kauri trees and rare birds.

 

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Geothermal Pools & Geysers

Geothermal pools and geysers are spectacular and rare around the world. There are approximately 58 in New Zealand. Their steaming plumes, bubbling waters, craters and colorful mud pools are concentrated in the Rotorua-Taupo region of North Island. These have been shaped and colored by volcanic and geothermal forces for thousands of years. Orange-lined hot springs, neon green lakes, erupting geysers, trees wearing a coat of orange crystals…see them, hold your nose and grab your camera!

 

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Extreme Adventure Sports

If adventure sports and extreme activities are your thing, there is no end to them in New Zealand. Queenstown is known as the ‘Adventure Capital of the World’. Choose from bungy jumping, jet boating, skydiving, zip-lining, off-road driving, white-water rafting, climbing, rappelling, caving, heli-skiing and more. If you can’t do it, you can often watch. Who wants to go home, anyway?