Thursday 26 June. This festive Mid-Winter Christmas Tour starts when we depart Auckland to explore the rural heart of New Zealand’s North Island on an epic rail journey from Auckland to Palmerston North. On this journey, we witness scenic wonders of Middle Earth, soar over towering viaducts, across the high plains of the volcanic plateau, and beneath three mighty volcanoes.

We arrive into Palmerston North in the late afternoon and we check-in to our hotel for the evening. Once settled, we enjoy a pre-dinner beverage in the bar before dinner.

(Dinner)

Friday 27 June. Palmerston North is a charming town with plenty of fascinating places to explore. On our way out of town, we’ll visit The Herb Farm, where we’ll meet Lynn Kirkland. In 1993, as a young mother with a passion for herbs and their healing properties, Lynn began her journey. Today, with the support of her dedicated family, she has developed a range of skincare and wellness products that we’ll have the opportunity to learn about firsthand.

After enjoying morning tea with Lynn, we’ll continue to Greytown, making a few stops along the way—including a surprise visit to a truly unique property! Later, we’ll check in to our centrally located accommodation in Greytown, leaving you plenty of time to unpack and explore the town’s many boutique stores at your leisure.

Breakfast, Dinner.

Saturday 28 June. Oh Martinborough... the heart of wine and artisans! Our first visit is to a small farm on the outskirts of Martinborough; Blue Earth. Here, we meet Margaret and Mike and learn about their olive oil and boutique wine operations. Then its off to Moy Hall for a delicious vineyard lunch followed with a visit to The Runholder, where we partake in a tasting of their locally produced Lighthouse Gin and Te Kairanga Wines (tastings are at your own expense). 

Then tonight, Greytown’s most magical little Christmas event kicks off! Put on your favorite Christmas sweater and/or accessories and come join the fun! There’s a lot to see, including Christmas Markets, the Christmas Tree Grotto, an amazing light display, and more!

There is nothing quiet in town tonight, and with so much to explore, we’ve chosen a casual dining venue for an easy dinner. .

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Sunday 29 June. This morning we drive to Cape Palliser – the southernmost point of the North Island and is home to the largest native fur seal colony in New Zealand. On our way, we pass Lake Onoke and Ngawi fishing village and take-in the dramatic, rugged coastline. The cast iron Cape Palliser lighthouse has stood on the cliffs since 1897 – and she’s still shining strong. 

After our visit to the lighthouse, we enjoy lunch at the Lake Ferry Hotel then return to Greytown. 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Monday 30 June. Today is Christmas Day so pull out that favourite Christmas sweater again! First, we take a drive out to Castlepoint – with its reef, lagoon, lighthouse, and Castle Rock, Castlepoint is a spectacular stretch of Wairarapa coastline and is rated one of the top 10 beaches in New Zealand (we’re sure this is where Santa takes his summer holidays!). Sit and enjoy the vistas as the waves roll in or do the 30min return Lighthouse Walk (850m ‘easy’ track). 

We then make our way back inland for an amazing Mid-Winter Christmas treat at Brancepath Homestead. This homestead is one of the original homes of the area and our hosts are pulling out all the stops when they serve up a traditional Christmas lunch, for everyone to enjoy!  

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Tuesday 1 July. This morning we pack our bags and depart this beautiful part of the country. Our first stop is at the Fell Engine Museum in Featherston for a guided tour and the spectacular audio-visual presentation “Rimutaka 1949”. Step back in time and experience a unique aspect of New Zealand’s railway heritage! 

After our tour we take some time to enjoy Featherston at your leisure - visit the Featherston Heritage Museum that houses a collection of information and memorabilia from the WWI Featherston Military Training Camp, the WWII Japanese Prisoner of War Camp, and of Featherston and its surrounding districts. Alternatively, wander the shops and explore the unique bookshops. 

Afterwards, we drive over the magnificent Remutaka’s to Wellington Airport for our flights home again.   

Breakfast, Lunch.