Some highlights on the tour were our time in Northland, where we chose to do a half day cruise on a catamaran to The Hole in the Rock. In Rotorua we experienced an authentic Maori meal “hangi” and enjoyed a great show that included a spine tingling “haka” – war dance. We loved Sileni Estate in Napier where we were entertained by the chef demonstrating how to cook our entrée (appetizer), before enjoying another superb 3-course meal. Arriving into Wellington on a sunny afternoon and seeing the harbor and city all laid out in front of us was spectacular. We used the open day to go on a Zest walking gourmet tour through the city’s boutique chocolate stores and cafes.

Traveling across to the South Island, we met our South Island guide who was just as brilliant as Murray had been in the North. We loved Nelson and the time at Awaroa Lodge in the Abel Tasman National Park, as we did the remoteness and spectacular West Coast and glaciers.

Milford Sound is everything it is reputed to be with the Stirling falls and Mitre Peak both grand and austere. In Queenstown we were flattered for choice and the open day again allowed us to explore; our decision was to go on a lunch cruise on the TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak Farm station.

The Mackenzie Country is quite a contrast and it must be said that the views from the room at The Hermitage in Mt Cook and dining room were something else.

The final night’s dinner with the group was both special and a little sad as we had really enjoyed the company of our like-minded travelers and the fact there were only 12 of us on board the 18-seater coach meant we had really built some long standing friendships. We’ll surely stay in touch so we can relive our wonderful New Zealand adventure over and over again....from the fantastic food and wine and luxurious hotels, to the local “Kiwi” culture and the astounding scenery.

CLICK TO RETURN TO THE SWAIN EXPERIENCE NEWSLETTER