Auckland to Queenstown 25 day Garden Classic

Private Transfer Auckland Airport to Auckland Accommodation

You will be met at the Auckland airport by the driver and transferred to your Auckland accommodation.

Welcome to Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand's self-proclaimed "City of Sails" is the country's largest metro area. Resting between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, this urban paradise has something for everyone. Surrounded by native bush, rainforests, and an abundance of beaches, Auckland is a playground for both the city savvy and those with an eye for adventure. Explore the central museums and galleries on foot, or get out onto the water to experience the best views of the city.

Collect your rental car

This tour can be priced with any of the rental cars available in our fantastic range, from economy hatchbacks to prestige saloons and SUV's.

Explore Auckland's Gardens

Perched on the edge of a large natural harbour, New Zealand's ‘City of Sails’ offers the best of both worlds. Sandy beaches, native bush and lush rainforests give way to a vibrant urban culture, humming with life. Pack a picnic lunch and start your day with a visit to the Auckland Botanical Gardens. With more than 10,000 plants from around the world, it covers 64 hectares including 10 hectares of rainforest. Widely recognised for its outstanding collections and South Pacific Flavour,  this garden encompasses  perennials, rose, native plants, an orchard, salvias, spring blossoms, a rock garden and Podocarps. Take a break to eat among the flowers and marvel at the lush serenity of this inner-city paradise Head back to central Auckland and take the scenic route round the viaduct. Choose to visit the Parnell rose gardens, or grab a coffee and visit the Wintergardens in the Auckland Domain.  Walk (if you're that way inclined) to the top of Auckland's highest volcano, Mt Eden, and take in soaring views of the gulf. Lose yourself in one of the 800 regional national parks on offer or grab a book and relax on a deserted beach.To end your day, catch a cab to Ponsonby Road and sample some upmarket culinary delights.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Wētā Workshop Unleashed

Explore worlds of horror, sci-fi and fantasy in the making. An exciting, realistic, and authentic experience, with three fully developed and original film concepts: A nail-biting horror Fauna, a fantasy epic Age of the Ever-Clan, and the mind-bending sci-fi Origins.
A 90-minute guided experience through fully themed environments, including immersive horror, fantasy, and sci-fi story worlds. Be immersed by a specially-created unique sweeping cinematic soundtrack, animatronic creatures, physical and digital interactives, hyper-realistic sculpted giants and characters, a horror house experience, and much more.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - All Blacks Experience

See what it takes to make, shape and be an All Black. Experience first-hand the excitement and emotion of game day. Discover the stories behind some of world rugby’s most famous players, moments and matches.
This guided experience introduces you to the game of rugby before being lead through state-of-the-art displays combining sound, images, interactive technology and hands-on activities. Discover New Zealand’s deep passion for our national sport, experience the full force of the All Blacks haka, tackle interactive zones where you can try out your kicking, catching, line-out and accuracy skills against legendary All Blacks.

Auckland to Whangarei

The drive from Auckland to the Whangarei takes around two hours but give yourself a little leeway for stops and sightseeing. As you go through Puhoi, take in the bohemian atmosphere of this historical township. Stop for a coffee in Warkworth, and continue on through lush Northland farms to arrive in harbourside Whangarei.

Whangarei Quarry Gardens

Whangarei Quarry Gardens is a garden project created by community volunteers in the forested western hills of Whangarei City. What was once a dilapidated quarry site has now become a subtropical oasis for all to enjoy. Often referred to as the Winterless North, With an annual rainfall of 1500-2000mm per year and New Zealand's highest average temperatures Northland has a truly subtropical climate. These climatic conditions, coupled with the sheltered and heat-radiating properties of a stone quarry, create an ideal microclimate for growing a plethora of native and exotic subtropical plants. Whangarei Quarry Gardens is a wonderful work in progress - historically fascinating, botanically captivating, and a beautiful reflection of the power of community.

Please note that a gold coin donation is required on entry.

Whangarei to Kerikeri Bay of Islands

Today you'll head to Kerikeri, Bay of Islands. The drive usually takes just over an hour, but plan a little longer and go via Paihia. Travel north on State Highway 1 and stop for a breather in Kawakawa, home to the infamous Hundertwasser toilets. Continue on towards the coast and take in the golden beaches and sparkling seas of Paihia. Spend some time wandering the streets of this bustling seaside town and dip your toes into the warm waters of the bay. Continue on the final leg of your trip to arrive in historic Kerikeri.

Explore the Bay of Islands

Commonly known as the 'winterless north' New Zealand's Bay of Islands is made up of over 140 subtropical atolls. Renowned for its untouched beaches, abundant marine life and idyllic climate, this tropical paradise ticks all the boxes. Today explore a beautiful English inspired garden within the grounds of Kerikeri Mission Station. Enjoy the tranquility and birdsong as you wander New Zealand's oldest European garden. Featuring an array of heritage roses, a riverbank orchard and an English 'cottage' garden this spectacular piece of heritage is also home to New Zealand's oldest building, Kemp House. Take a picnic and eat under one of the many Magnolia, Jacaranda and Pohutukawa trees dotted throughout the property. Discover millstones from the 1820s including a 100 year old Mulberry tree, and a well-kept gorse hedge and visit the Stone Store, once used to hold mission supplies and wheat. Take a 20 minute drive to nearby Waitangi and learn about its historic Treaty - a contract signed in 1840 between the local Maori and European settlers dictating the terms by which New Zealand would become a British colony. Finish your day with a boat ride from neighbouring Paihia, to Russel, the first European settlement and whaling port founded in 1843. Have a drink at the first licensed hotel In NZ The Duke of Marlborough, or wander up Flagstaff Hill to view the iconic flagpole - ordered chopped down three times by Maori Chief Hone Heke.

Kerikeri to Murawai Beach

Today you will leave Kerikeri and first head back the way you came, then traverse west at Wellsford down the Kaioara Coast to your destination for the night - Lone Kauri Lodge at Murawai Beach. Enjoy the tranquil bush surrounds as you relax in the garden, or stroll along the nearby beach.

Muriwai Beach to Hamilton

Your driving leg today takes you south passing the city of Auckland and onwards through lush Waikato farmland. Follow the road as it hugs the Waikato river, an important trade route for many centuries - still providing power and water today. The paddle steamer, MV Waipa Delta still plies its trade in the waters of the Waikato. This 1877 vessel takes visitors from Memorial Park along the river under its classic bridges and picturesque tree-lined banks. Continue on through picturesque surroundings and arrive in the heart of Hamilton.

Explore Hamilton Gardens

Hamilton Gardens has one of the finest displays of floriculture in New Zealand. At 58 hectares, its grounds are publicly owned and managed by the Hamilton City Council. Featuring over 21 separate gardens including an Indian, Japanese, Chinese, Italian and English garden, we recommend you take your time to relax and meander through this magnificent property. Originally started in the early 1960's, the Rogers Rose Garden was added in 1971, but most of the expansion and development has occurred since 1982. Today Hamilton Gardens is the most popular visitor attraction in the region with about 600,000 visitors each year, nearly half of them being tourists. The unique theme of Hamilton Gardens is 'the story of gardens' which is explored through a series of five garden collections. Open from 9 am until 5pm (opening time can change) the gardens also display a series of season features. A café and restaurant are also on site.

Hamilton Gardens Guided Tour with Picnic Lunch

Telling the story of gardens through themed collections, Hamilton Gardens explores different civilizations, and recreates historically important garden styles from all over the world.
You will be guided on a journey of discovery along paths delivering mysterious surprises. From a peaceful Sung Dynasty Chinese Scholar's garden to an Italian Renaissance garden, there are 21 themed garden areas with more being developed. Hamilton Gardens is not a botanical garden. Instead, it's a unique and internationally recognised concept that has been compared to a museum. Each garden collection has historic integrity and provides a window into the story of civilizations, their arts, beliefs and life styles.

Hamilton to Waitomo

The lush farmland of the Waikato and the limestone hills of the Waitomo region provide unmissable scenery as you head south. Arrive in Waitomo, home to a huge network of glow worm caves  - a must do if you are in the area.

Waitomo Glowworm Caves and Ruakuri Cave Combo

Enjoy Waitomo's longest guided walking tour along 1.6km of cave passages of Ruakuri where you can marvel at the interesting formations in this living work of nature. The tour offers a comprehensive experience due to its size and diversity. Winding passageways, vast echoing caverns, deep crevices and the distant thunder of subterranean waterfalls bring a different energy and character to Ruakuri. The cave is home to an innovative spiral entrance, echoing waterfalls, and limestone that flow into delicate shawl-like formations. Be led along narrow corridors and across low-lit walkways suspended high above the river, sometimes glimpsing the black water rafters on the Huhunui River below. Combine this with the Waitomo Glowworm Caves where thousands of tiny glow worms cling to the cave ceiling and create a starry sky within the underground night.  The Waitomo glowworm, Arachnocampa luminosa, is unique to New Zealand. Thousands of these tiny creatures radiate their unmistakable luminescent light as expert guides provide informative commentary on the Caves' historical and geological significance. You'll also see a deep limestone shaft and a soaring subterranean cathedral that will leave you speechless.

Waitomo to Rotorua

Today cross the lush farmland of the Waikato as you make your way inland to Rotorua. Pass through several small farming towns such as Otorohanga and Putaruru, before the region’s geothermal activity signals your arrival into the city of Rotorua.

Explore Rotorua

Take a break from gardens today and spend some time exploring this volcanic city. Peppered with natural hot springs, boiling mud pools and steaming geysers, Rotorua sits within one of the worlds most active volcanic regions. But geothermal landmarks aside, this city of sulphur has a rich indigenous history. Home to several prominent Maori tribes, a visit to the Mitai Maori Village should be high on your agenda, as should an excursion to the Polynesian Spa for an invigorating soak in its natural mineral hot springs. Spike your adrenaline at Agroventures on stomach-dropping attractions such as static skydiving, or a giant swing reaching 130 km per hour. Go up the Gondola for soaring lake views, and ride the luge at night for an extra thrill. Fans of Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit should drive to nearby Matamata and experience the actual movie set ‘Hobbiton’. Make the most of your time in Rotorua with an excursion through the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, one of the area’s most colourful volcanic attractions.

Te Pā Tū Evening Maori Cultural Experience

New Zealand’s Most Awarded Cultural Attraction, presenting Te Pā Tū. Feast on song, drama, tradition, and divine seasonal kai (cuisine) within the forest Pā (village) blanketed by towering Tawa trees, blazing bonfires, and a forest-formed amphitheatre. Te Pā Tū shares Māori history, traditions, and cultural aspirations across 4-hours of celebration and feasting. These events change with each season of the maramataka, the Māori lunar calendar.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Orakei Korako Hidden Valley with Volcanic Air Safaris by floatplane

From above Mount Tarawera impressive views include vast volcanic rifts, distant national parks and our treasured lakes. Flying south on a floatplane, you will gain an appreciation of what local Maori refer to as the ‘Sisters of Fire’. Here, volcanic activity has pierced the earth surface across the fault-line forming the reserves of Waimangu and Wai-O-Tapu which, when viewed from above, dismay a spectacular palette of natures most vibrant colours. Landing at Orakei Korako, ‘the Hidden Valley’, is an amazing opportunity to experience hot springs, gushing geysers and the natural beauty of this geothermal wonderland.

Lake Taupo Scenic Cruise, scenic helicopter and Huka Falls jet boat ride

Begin this Totally Taupo day with a scenic cruise on Great Lake Taupo. Explore secluded bays and take in magnificent views of the mountain peaks of Tongariro National Park as you cruise out to view the Maori Rock Carvings on board the modern catamaran. Enjoy an informative commentary along with complimentary coffee and muffins on board. After your 1.5 hours cruise return to Taupo where you'll board your helicopter for an exciting 12 minute scenic flight over the geothermal areas of Craters of The Moon, the Maori rock Carvings and the Huka Falls before landing near Huka Falls for your final adventure, the thrilling Huka Falls jet boat ride. Finish with a blast on this 30 minute jet boat ride, sliding past cliffs and trees at an incredible 80km/hr before reaching the base of the spectacular Huka Falls.

Explore Gwavas Gardens and Hawke's Bay

Today you'll have the chance to visit a unique 120 year old property Gwavas Garden Homestead. With one of the largest privately owned collections of temperate woody plants in Australasia, Gwavas is best described as a Cornish woodland garden. Many of the trees and shrubs came from seeds sent to.  Unique hybrids are bred here and there are many New Zealand natives, including large Totara trees.y. The garden is a treasure trove unusual specimens: Himalayan lilies; a large Michaelia doltsopa, planted in 1951 - one of the earliest in the country; and a Quercus suber (cork oak) planted in 1894. The  raspberry plants, Semper fidelis, continue to yield a crop every year since they were planted over a hundred years ago. But you don't need to be a keen gardener to appreciate the beauty of Gwavas Garden; it's a visual spectacle even to the untrained eye; camellias and magnolia flower from August, rhododendrons and azaleas from September. The garden is at its best in spring, with October and November ideal months to enjoy the colours and contours of this sylvan setting; however there is always something to see or a whiff of fragrance to smell throughout the year, autumn colours, for example, can be spectacular.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Classic Food & Wine Tour with Hunter Gatherer Tours

During this tour, you will taste your way through the region, discover local artists, Kiwi architecture, and what makes Hawke’s Bay food and wine unique. You will meet local New Zealanders doing everyday things and have a home-made lunch with the Cheese & Wine Experience.

Hawkes Bay to Wellington

As you leave the rolling countryside of the Hawke's Bay you'll be greeted with some of the country's richest dairy farmland in the Manawatu Gorge. Continue on through the Wairarapa region and stop in the Pukaha Mount Bruce Wildlife Centre, where you can see some of New Zealand native animals.Take another break in Masterson, and visit the interactive Woolshed Museum to learn about sheep farming in New Zealand. As you drive south, a visit to historic Greytown is a must do. Take in the restored Victorian buildings and make time for a cup of tea at one of it's quaint cafes. Leaving state highway 2 you will cross over the Ruamahanga River into Martinborough wine country. Enjoy the picturesque views through acres of leafy green vineyards as you start your final driving leg of the day to Wellington.

Wellington Botanic Gardens

The Wellington Botanic Gardens are home to over 26 hectares of exceptional views, unique landscape, exotic forests, native bush, and specialist gardens. One of the oldest botanic gardens in New Zealand, this central city garden was established in 1868. The conifer species were planted as part of a programme to import plant species and assess their economic potential to the new colony. The very large specimens of Pinus radiata that dominate the landscape were grown from the first seed of that species to be imported from California. A feature of the gardens are major seasonal floral displays, spectacular in spring, with a massed display of 30,000 tulips. In summer, the Lady Norwood Rose garden provides a colourful spectacle with 106 formal beds each containing a different cultivar. Adjacent is a large Begonia House displaying tropical and temperate plants and a tropical conservatory with a seasonal display of orchids. Victoria amazonica, the giant water lily can be found here. There are several key attractions in the garden that visitors can experience such as glow worms in the Main Garden, public art throughout the garden, children's play area, Botanic Garden Cafe located in the Lady Norwood Rose Garden and the Carter Observatory. The information centre is located in the spectacular Tree House and nearby there is a rock garden, an extensive fern collection and a camellia walk. There are extensive, well-maintained, walking paths throughout the garden.

Wellington

Wellington, home to New Zealand’s centre of government has a largely cosmopolitan feel. Often referred to as ‘mini-Melbourne’, this (self described) windy city is a melting pot of art, culture, food and fashion. Quirky laneway bars, underground art shows, and hipster eateries make up its inner city vibe, while a host of sandy beaches outside the urban bustle bring a cheerful holiday feel.
Take a turn on the boardwalk en-route to Te Papa, New Zealand's national museum or catch a historic cable car from Lambton Quay and soak up the city sights. Wander the boutiques on Cuba St and check out the aptly named ‘Beehive’ off Parliament House.
Play hobbit for day and book a tour through Weta Workshop, the Oscar Award winning design studio for Lord Of The Rings. If eating is your thing, drive an hour out of town to Martinborough and experience some of the region's best food and wine. For those interested in New Zealand's native species, a trip to Zealandia is a must, the world's first fully fenced eco-sanctuary. Then kick off your evening in style - search ‘Metro Eats’ to choose from a plethora of the city’s best restaurants to dine.

Interislander Ferry Wellington to Picton

The 92 km journey between Wellington and Picton takes around 3 hours and has been described as 'one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world'. Leaving Wellington Harbour you pass many interesting points such as Pencarrow Head on top of which is New Zealand's oldest lighthouse (1859). Red Rocks is home to a seal colony and Oterangi Bay is the site which recorded the country's highest ever wind speed of 268 kph (167 mph).
From the Cook Strait spectacular views of the Kaikoura Ranges on the South Island can be enjoyed and dolphins and many sea birds are often seen. Around one hour of the cruise takes you through the Marlborough Sounds and this region of bush covered mountains, small islands, crystal clear waters and secluded bays offer remarkable photographic opportunities. The final leg of your cruise travels through Queen Charlotte Sound before coming to an end in the picturesque town of Picton.

Picton to Blenheim

Only short 30 minute drive, you’ll follow the valley south to arrive in Blenheim, located in the heart of Marlborough - New Zealand’s largest wine producing region. Go through acres of leafy green vines and marvel at the magnificent ‘dry hills’ of Marlborough in the distance.

Marlborough and the Sounds

The Marlborough region is one of the most diverse in New Zealand. Comprised of many sunken river valleys known as ‘Sounds’ it offers countless adventure and relaxation opportunities. Surrounded by bush-clad mountains and clear waters, Marlborough is home to an abundance of marine life and seabirds including dolphins, seals, penguins, the fantail, bellbird and wood pigeon.
Spread across 4,000 km² it lies at the South Island's north-easternmost point, between Tasman Bay and Cloudy Bay. Sparsely populated, many of the isolated houses and resorts are only accessible by boats making this an ideal getaway destination. The main sounds are Queen Charlotte, Pelorus, Kenepuru and Tory Channel  - a major arm of Queen Charlotte Sound. Between them they isolate the hills of Arapawa Island from the mainland.

Blenheim to Kaikoura

Cross the 'dry hills' of Marlborough and head towards one of the most spectacular coastlines of the South Island, the Kaikoura Coast. The road hugs the shore for around 50 kilometres and offers many chances to view native wildlife. To the east is the South Pacific Ocean and to the west the towering Kaikoura Ranges. Kaikoura Township is a bustling little place with many cafes, restaurants and shops, but the main reason for visiting here is the wildlife and it's one of the only places in New Zealand you can see whales year round.

Explore Kaikoura

The Kaikoura Coast is renowned for its abundant marine life, and this is huge visitor drawcard. Due to the teeming food supply in its icy seas, whales, seals and dolphins are frequently spotted year round in the area. Visit the fragrant Kaikoura Lavender Farm and distillery, and enjoy piece of lavender shortbread with a cup of lavender tea. Observe the fur seal colony basking in the sun at the tip of the peninsula and be sure to take a trip by boat to view the whales. Or if you prefer, hop aboard a 30 minute scenic flight and see the coast by air. But if you're feeling really adventurous take a dip with the resident seal population on either a land or boat based trip. Kaikoura township has a charming feel and after a day of marine adventures is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat. not to be missed is a meal of fresh crayfish - the town's signature dish. Before you leave, visit historic Fyffe House for insight into the region’s Whaling Past.

Kaikoura to Christchurch

Today you travel down the coast before heading inland through the North Canterbury wine region - the Waipara Valley. As you drive through this area you’ll be greeted by one of New Zealand's most notorious animals, the sheep. If you’ve time on your hands we recommend taking a detour to Hanmer Springs for relaxing dip in its thermal pools. Arriving into Christchurch you'll see a new and improved city, steadily rising from the ruins of the 2011 earthquake.

Te Wepu Native Garden

Meaning ‘The Web’ In Maori, Te Wepu is home to a large group of mature natives, a fernery, flax, hebes, lancewood, paths and lawns as well as two Japanese style gardens. The St Albans creek running through the property creates a natural habitat for resident ducks,  and native birds. There is also a large lime tree planted in 1882. Located in the heart of the city this garden sits on a half acre of land as part of the original Te Wepu mansion estate.

Explore Christchurch City

Following the 2011 earthquake that razed its centre and much of the outlying suburbs, Christchurch is well into a billion-dollar makeover. In the middle of the Canterbury Plains, bordering the pacific ocean, New Zealand’s newest city is an ideal gateway to exploring the middle of the South.
Go punting on the Avon River, take a historic tram ride, catch the gondola to the rim of an extinct volcano or do all three! See the world's only Cardboard Cathedral and for nature enthusiasts - wander the renowned Christchurch Botanic Gardens, or head to Oxford Terrace in the city to find a great spot to eat or drink.
Drive an hour in any direction to ski, mountain bike, wine taste, whale-watch, bungy jump or play golf. Take the winding Port Hills road to the French settlement of Akaroa and tour the vines in Waipara for an authentic New Zealand wine-tasting experience.  

Christchurch Triple Pass - Tram, Punting and Gondola

Experience three of Christchurch's iconic attractions in one day: the Christchurch Tram, Christchurch Gondola, and Punting on the Avon River. The historic tram is a delightful way to explore the evolving inner city, taking in the various sights with the hop-on hop-off pass and learning about the city from the live commentary. You'll also enjoy a bird's eye view of Christchurch and the Canterbury region including the distant peaks of the Southern Alps when you ride the gondola cableway to the top of the Port Hills in Heathcote Valley. Punting on the Avon River takes you through the city's green belt: a relaxing way to explore what is affectionately known as the 'Garden City'.

Christchurch to Dunedin

Crossing the vast Canterbury Plains as you head South, State Highway 1 traverses many braided rivers that start their life as glacial melt water high in the Southern Alps. You'll head over New Zealand's longest bridge at Rakaia and onwards through Timaru. Stretch your legs in Oamaru, known for its white stone buildings constructed with the local Oamaru Stone. Take a 10 minute detour inland to visit the Rockvale Stone and Gardens nestled in Weston. Continue south down the coast to Moeraki, and make sure you head towards the beach to see the Moeraki Boulders, a unique geological feature well worth a look. As you arrive in Dunedin, take in the city’s Edwardian and Scottish heritage reflected in the buildings around the city centre - The Octagon.

Rockvale Stone and Garden

This garden was originally created to display the Oamaru Stone the region is famous for, but was slowly been expanded to include a large formal garden. Featuring beautiful foliage mixed with local rock carvings this garden is a delightful mix of classic and contemporary, located in the heart of the North Otago countryside.

Explore Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula

Known as the Edinburgh of the South, Dunedin City has a heavy Scottish influence. Surrounded by rugged coastal plains and windswept beaches it’s home to an eclectic mix of historical and modern architecture as well as industrial technology. Renowned for its Flemish Baroque-inspired ‘gingerbread house’ Railway Station, this university town is bustling with life. Head to the Saturday farmers market held in the aforementioned railway grounds for a taste of organic produce, handmade crepes and local honey. Explore the many cafes and wine bars in The Octagon, then continue on a self-guided walking tour of the internationally acclaimed Street Art dotted around the city. Drive to the coast and watch the freighters passing in the distance while you sunbathe, or hire a mountain bike and test your legs on one of the many trails available in the area. For a more immersive historical experience, follow the coast to New Zealand's only castle, Larnach Castle. On your way back be sure to head to the Otago Peninsula to see the largest mainland Albatross colony in the world.

Dunedin Botanic Gardens

The Dunedin Botanic Garden is New Zealand's first botanic garden and is also a Garden of International Significance. It is home to more than 6,800 plant species and is spread across both rolling hills and flatlands. Wild native bellbirds, wood pigeons and tui can be heard on most days. The garden occupies 30.4 hectares in North Dunedin.  Its varying range of floriculture and horticultural includes roses, herbaceous and perennial borders, a rock garden, New Zealand native plants and four hectares of Rhododendron Dell. It also houses a New Zealand Native plant collection including cultivation of rare and endangered native plant species.

Historic Olveston House Guided Tour

Olveston House is a special place. It offers visitors a glimpse of a lifestyle long gone that can never be recreated. Visitors feel very much like a guest in the family home as they move through the eighteen rooms open for viewing during the course of the one hour guided tour. There are few historic houses that can offer such originality and integrity as Olveston.

The house has only ever had one family in residence. Miss Dorothy Theomin, the sole surviving member of the family who built Olveston, died in 1966 and the property, complete with all its contents, was passed into the care of Dunedin City. Constructed between 1904 and 1906, the Neo-Jacobean style grace and grandeur of Olveston is distinguished by a wealth of decorative detail. The Theomin family decorated their home with irreplaceable artifacts and priceless treasures. Bronze, cloisonne and ivory from Japan and Chinese jade and ceramics reflect David Theomin's interest in decorative art from East Asia. In total, some 240 paintings and graphics grace the rooms.

Dunedin to Queenstown

This drive takes you through the heart of the historical Otago Goldfields. The townships of Lawrence, Roxburgh and Alexandra, once booming mining towns in the late 1800's gold rush now sleepy sun-traps bearing little resemblance to their bustling past. However, some buildings do remain as do the original shafts and workings. In more recent times Alexandra has become the 'stone fruit capital' of New Zealand, with the ideal climate for the trees. It is also a great place to buy some of the local produce. The road follows the South Island's longest river, the Clutha River, and at Clyde, you will see one of the largest hydro power stations harnessing its energy before passing through Gibbston to arrive at your destination today, Queenstown.  
 

Queenstown Gardens

The Queenstown Gardens are just a few minutes walk from central Queenstown and offer a beautiful and tranquil setting away from the hustle and bustle. The landscaped gardens include plenty of places to sit down and admire the beauty of the gardens. Pristine lawns, a large water feature, a wide variety of trees and plants, a rose garden and a couple of significant memorials all combine to provide that perfect escape from downtown Queenstown.
The gardens are a popular place to take a picnic, relax with friends and family and enjoy the views of Lake Wakatipu. The most visible tree is the Douglas Fir which provides a protective cover around the gardens and seclusion from the lively downtown area of Queenstown.
The gardens are also a popular place for enthusiasts of disc golf where 18 holes are laid out for you to complete a round of 'golf' with your disc. Metal baskets act as the holes with 'pars' offered for each hole and tees adding to the experience. Frisbees can easily be purchased from most outdoor shops in the town centre.

TSS Earnslaw cruise to Walter Peak including gourmet BBQ dinner and a farm tour

Enjoy a quintessential Kiwi experience, a delicious gourmet BBQ buffet meal and a farm demonstration in a stunning lakeside setting. Take in the stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and its surroundings as you cruise across the lake to the historic Walter Peak high country farm aboard the TSS Earnslaw Steamship.
Enjoy the ambience of the heart of the stately homestead while your Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant chef prepares a gourmet BBQ dinner. Your seasonal menu includes an extensive selection of local New Zealand produce, including succulent meats and a selection of delicious vegetables and salads. Complete your meal with your choice of delicious desserts, New Zealand cheeses, tea and coffee.
After dinner, watch the farm dogs in action with a sheep-herding demonstration and say hello to the other farm animals. Finally, cruise home under the southern stars and enjoy the fresh night air as the lights of Queenstown draw ever closer.

Your final morning in Queenstown before driving to the airport and catching your next flight

Depending on when your flight departs you might have time for one last Queenstown adventure before dropping your car off at the airport and catching your flight.