This morning, we head south to Paraparaumu aboard the Northern Explorer Train. As we travel through the stunning landscapes of Aotearoa, we’ll pass through five geographical regions of the North Island and ascend the world-famous Raurimu Spiral, offering views not seen from the highway. We’ll disembark in Paraparaumu and transfer to our beachfront accommodation in Raumati on the Kapiti Coast for our first two-night stay.

Dinner.

 It’s “ships ahoy” this morning as we board our boat to Kapiti Island, one of our country’s oldest and most significant nature reserves. As a world-renowned bird sanctuary, Kapiti Island is home to a rich variety of native and endangered species, including the Little Spotted Kiwi, Takahe, and the playful Kaka, which have struggled to survive on the mainland. We’ll embark on an informative guided tour of this remarkable island, which includes lunch at the lodge.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Today, we check out of our motel and head to the Wairarapa for a luxurious three-night stay at the Martinborough Hotel. This character-filled hotel, known for its charm and quirks, was once described in 1982 as one of “the finest hostelries ever erected in any inland town in NZ.” Today, it stands as a luxury boutique hotel, ideally situated to explore all South Wairarapa offers.

On our way to Martinborough, we’ll make a stop in Greytown, one of the North Island’s most picturesque towns. With its Victorian architecture, tree-lined streets, and charming rural surroundings, Greytown is perfect for exploring designer boutiques and specialty shops at your leisure. If shopping isn’t your preference, consider visiting the Cobblestones Museum. Featuring six heritage buildings and an extensive collection of agricultural, horticultural, and roadmaking machinery set within two acres of gardens, it’s a treasure trove of local history.

Next, we’ll visit Brancepeth Homestead. At the turn of the century, it was once one of the largest sheep stations in New Zealand. Brancepeth employed over 300 staff and housed a permanent population of more than 100. Here, we enjoy a delightful lunch in the main homestead and take in the remarkable historic buildings that surround it.

Tonight, we dine at the Martinborough Hotel’s Union Square Bistro, a French-inspired eatery recognised as one of Cuisine Magazine’s top 100 restaurants in New Zealand.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

This morning, we drive to Cape Palliser, the southernmost point of the North Island and home to New Zealand’s largest native fur seal colony. Along the way, we’ll pass Lake Onoke and the Ngawi fishing village, taking in the dramatic, rugged coastline.

The cast iron Cape Palliser lighthouse, standing tall on the cliffs since 1897, continues to shine brightly. If you’re up for it, you can climb the 253 steps to really appreciate the panoramic views from the top 

(a certain level of fitness is required). 

We’ll then head on back down the road for fish and chips at one of the oldest licensed hotels in New Zealand; Lake Ferry Hotel. This hotel is located on the shores of Lake Onoke, overlooking Palliser Bay.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

We depart town in the morning to explore the ancient olive trees of Martinborough. Helen and John Meehan, owners of Olivo, will guide us through a lesson on olive oil—its history, production process, and a bit of cooking, complemented by local wine.

A trip to the Wairarapa wouldn’t be complete without a vineyard lunch… so we’ve chosen a boutique vineyard for a wine tasting and shared platter lunch. Relax and savour the exquisite food and ambience of this unique property.

After lunch, you can return to the hotel or join your Tour Manager to visit some additional wineries, including the Palliser Gin Distillery (tastings at your own expense).

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

This morning, we pack our bags and bid farewell to this beautiful region. Our first stop is the Fell Engine Museum in Featherston, where we’ll enjoy a guided tour and the spectacular audio-visual presentation, “Rimutaka 1949.” Step back in time to explore a unique facet of New Zealand’s railway heritage!

Next, we visit the Featherston Heritage Museum, which showcases information and memorabilia from the WWI Featherston Military Training Camp, the WWII Japanese Prisoner of War Camp, and the history of Featherston and its surrounding areas.

We then drive over the magnificent Remutakas and stop at Aston Norwood for lunch, followed by a stroll through their intricately designed gardens.

Our adventure concludes as we make our way to Wellington Airport. There, we’ll bid farewell and catch our flights home, taking with us the cherished memories of an unforgettable journey.

Breakfast.