New Zealand
There are hundreds of options when it comes to exploration, outdoor adventure, pampering and relaxation. Here is a sample itinerary to ponder, however we welcome the opportunity to tailor your New Zealand experience to reflect your passions and pleasures.
Day 1
Fly in to Nelson, stay overnight at the Rutherford International Hotel or one of the very nice local bed & breakfasts. Stroll the city, dine at a fabulous local restaurant, enjoy a signature Nelson wine. Alternatively, enjoy the luxury and facilities of the Lodge at Paratiho Farms, situated in the heart of Nelson's lush landscape, and ideally located for superb trout fishing.
Day 2
World of WearableArt and Collectable Cars Museum - see art adorning the body in a visually spectacular and unusual array of costumes - an iconic New Zealand experience.
Höglund Art Glass - watch world-famous glass artists create works before your eyes in a rural setting.
Galleries and shopping - visit the picturesque seaside settlement of Mapua with its art galleries, waterfront cafés and aquarium. Lunch at once of the cafés overlooking the water in Mapua, famous for their seafood.
Take an eco-tour around the South Island's largest estuary bird-spotting.
Day 3, 4, 5
Feeling refreshed, set sail on Yonder Star to explore the golden sand beaches and bays of the renowned Abel Tasman National Park. Intersperse your relaxation with any of the following activities:
• Walk the stunning coastal track, from an hour's stroll to a seven-hour energetic hike.
• Swimming and beach-combing.
• Take an invigorating waka tour up the coastline (a waka is a traditional Māori canoe).
• Guided sea kayaking along the rocky coastline (beginners to advanced).
• Seal swim at Tonga Island Marine Reserve.
• Sightseeing charters to view the coastline and seals from the comfort of your charter boat.
• Wine and dine at one of the superior New Zealand lodges, such as Awaroa Lodge, tucked in Abel Tasman's native bush and offering top class New Zealand lodge-style cuisine.
• Snorkeling or sea-biscuit fun.
• Fishing.
• Helicopter charters and scenic tours.
• Skydiving over Abel Tasman National Park.
Alternatively your Yonder Star charter could take in the glorious Marlborough Sounds and nearby D'Urville Island. Marlborough is the premium wine-producing area of New Zealand.
Day 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
• Sail across Tasman Bay to French Pass, the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds. The Sounds are fiord like cruising that has endless bays and anchorages. It would be easy to spend weeks here. There are secluded hotels and farm stays where you can fresh farm grown produce. Explore the small beautiful town on Picton. where the ferries leave for Wellington.
• Fishing is great in the Sounds.
• Take a Ferry to New Zealands Capital city, Wellington, just 2 hours away. Make a day trip of it, or stay over night.
Day 13
• Return to Nelson.
• Pamper with a sauna, massage or beauty treatment at Kimi Ora Spa Resort.
• Or take a cultural tour and visit art galleries and studios in beautiful locations throughout the countryside - many within a couple of hours' drive.
• Or visit the local wineries, boutique breweries and gourmet food producers. Delicious!
• Or partake in 4-wheel fun on quad bikes as you ride through hundreds of acres of native bush, or take a gentle horseback ride.
Day 14
• Scenic flight over the city in the morning if time allows.
• Farewells.Find much more information and sample itineraries at Distincive Yachts