Ahurea

New Zealand/Aotearoa through immersive cultural journey

 

Ahurea • 11 days North & South Island

New Zealand for cultural buffs

Ahurea sample itinerary can be requested in its current form or it could be customised to suit your style or taste.

New Zealand's culture is a vibrant mix of Maori, Pacific, European, and Asian influences. Witness traditional Maori arts and crafts in Rotorua. In the Bay of Islands learn about historic Waitangi Treaty between Maori and the British Crown was signed. Spend some time in the Auckland War Memorial Museum, where you can learn about Kiwi and Maori history and see the impressive Maori artefacts on display. Throughout the journey use many opportunities to acquire some unique pieces of bygone times in antique shops. Embrace the warm hospitality and vibrant traditions of the Maori people and a laid-back lifestyle of New Zealanders on your journey around this amazingly beautiful country.

Nau Mai, Haere Mai Ki Aotearoa, Welcome to New Zealand! 

Nau

ITINERARY DETAILS
Auckland Viaduct Bridge
DAY ONE • Arrival in Auckland
  • Arrival at Auckland International Airport
  • Transfer to Te Hihi Estate
  • Relaxed time at  Te Arai Lodge  and surrounding area

 

*As this is your arrival day the itinerary schedule depends on the time of the arrival. You will most likely appreciate some easy, relaxing time at the lodge. In case of a late arrival there will be an alternate plan in place for your first day of Ahurea itinerary.

 

Auckland War Memorial Museum
DAY TWO • Museums & Galleries
  • Visit Auckland War Memorial Museum to learn about Maori & New Zealand heritage and history
  • Witness Maori Cultural Performance at the Museum
  • Lunch in one of Auckland's top restaurants 
  • Explore the vibrant art scene in Ponsonby and visit local galleries

 

Waiheke Island Vineyard
DAY THREE • Waiheke Island
  • A day trip to Waiheke Island
  • Terra & Tide: Waiheke from Maori perspective
    Wineries, Food & Art Scene Tours to choose from
  • Evening: activities at the lodge

 

Rotorua Maori Hangi
DAY FOUR • Rotorua
  • Transfer to On the Point Lodge in Rotorua
  • Visit Whakarewarewa Village: geothermal wanders, Maori hangi feast
  • Explore the Ahua Gallery for contemporary Maori art
  • Evening at the lodge
Tarawera Lake Sunsrise
DAY FIVE • Tarawera Lake
  • Cruising and Fishing at Tarawera Lake
  • Hot Water Beach and other experiences
  • Solitaire Lodge for Lunch
  • Afternoon and evening at Mitai Maori Village

 

Wellington Te Papa Museum Gallipoli
DAY SIX • Wellington
  • Transfer to Wharekauhau Lodge
  • Visit Te Papa Tongarewa Museum for Maori & Pacific heritage and the groundbreaking Gallipoli exhibition 
  • Explore the vibrant Cuba Street for local art galleries
  • Evening at the lodge

 

Wellington Weta Studios
DAY SEVEN • Wellington
  • Visit Weta Workshop Full experience with kai (lunch)
  • Shopping at Lambton Quay
  • Dinner at the trendy Rita Restaurant in the city
  • Evening at the lodge

 

Queenstown Kiwi Park
DAY EIGHT • Queenstown
  • Transfer to Matakauri Lodge in Queenstown
  • City and lake sightseeing
  • Queenstown Kiwi Park
  • Evening at the lodge

 

Milford Sounds Painting Maori
DAY NINE • Fiordland National Park
  • Day Trip: A scenic helicopter ride to Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning landscapes.
  • Experience the beauty of Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound and learn about the Maori legends associated with these places
  • Evening at the lodge

 

Lake Tekapo
DAY TEN • Queenstown to Christchurch
  • Full-day tour from Queenstown to Christchurch
  • Visit Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki and Aoraki Mount Cook
  • Alpine walk around Mount Cook
  • Evening at The Residence

 

Christchurch Art Gallery
DAY ELEVEN • Christchurch
  • Private City Tour:
  • City Center, Botanic Gardens, Transitional Cathedral
  • Guided tour in Christchurch Art Gallery
  • Port Hills for scenic views of Christchurch & Southern Alps
  • Charming seaside suburbs Lyttelton and Sumner
  • Evening at the Residence

 

Christchurch Airport
DAY TWELVE • Homebound flight from Christchurch

Mā te wā! (See you next time)

 

YOUR ACCOMMODATION

Te Arai Lodge

Day One to Three

Te Arai Lodge is an eco-friendly oasis only 1 hour 15 minutes north of the Auckland harbour bridge. Surrounded by over 20 acres of ancient podocarp forest and native bush, Te Arai Lodge sits on an elevated ridge with panoramic views across the rolling hills of the Brynderwyn Ranges out to the stunning beaches and surrounding islands of the Mangawhai coast.

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On The Point

Day Four to Five

Nestled at the end of a private peninsula, the luxury lodge in Rotorua is where luxury meets sereneness. Experience unparalleled comfort and sophistication in 5-star suites, each meticulously designed to exceed expectations. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a rejuvenating retreat, your stay will be elevated with unparalleled hospitality, on the edge of Lake Rotorua, New Zealand. Enjoy the best of luxury accommodation in Rotorua with On The Point.

 

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Wharekauhau Country Estate

Day Six to Seven

Wharekauhau is considered one of New Zealand’s (and the world's) most luxury hideaways, offering guest an unforgettable farm stay experience set in the spectacular foothills of the Remutaka Mountain Range and the clifftops of dramatic Palliser Bay.

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Matakauri Lodge

Day Eight to Nine

Along the idyllic shores of Lake Wakatipu, Rosewood Matakauri is a stunning alpine lakeside retreat that offers the best of both worlds: a quiet oasis of luxury and comfort, near bustling Queenstown. Crowned as one of the finest resorts in the country, Rosewood Matakauri is your restorative haven after a day of exploration.

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The Residence 

Day Ten to Eleven

Nestled within the embrace of serene gardens, The Residence, a three-bedroom character villa, unfolds as a secluded haven, offering a tranquil escape for guests.  Tailored for multigenerational families or groups, it beckons those who seek to intertwine togetherness with individual freedom, creating an enchanting tapestry of shared moments and personal space. 

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