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Surrender to 5 days of serenity across New Zealand's North Island, designed to leave you deeply rejuvenated in ultimate exclusivity. On this bespoke getaway, you will travel via private transfers and explore with your own private guides, staying at two of New Zealand's most celebrated luxury lodges: the legendary Huka Lodge, on the banks of the Waikato River in Taupo, and the breathtaking Rosewood Cape Kidnappers, perched dramatically above the Pacific Ocean in Hawke's Bay. This bespoke itinerary weaves together volcanic landscapes, ancient forests, and refined opulence — from intimate dining experiences and exclusive walks through UNESCO-listed Tongariro National Park to a private sunrise tour. Every exquisite detail conspires to create an unforgettable sanctuary of peace and wonder.
Your adventure begins with a private transfer from Taupo Airport to your escape ...
Your adventure begins with a private transfer from Taupo Airport to your escape at the elegant Huka Lodge, where the serene Waikato River sets the stage for refined dining and restorative spa therapies. Venture deep into Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage wilderness of volcanic grandeur, on a privately guided walk tailored entirely to you. Discover the ancient canopy of the Opepe Forest alive with birdsong and the otherworldly steaming geothermal marvels of Craters of the Moon, before transferring to the dramatic clifftop splendour of Rosewood Cape Kidnappers. Here, overlooking the vast Pacific Ocean, world-class cuisine, a celebrated wine cellar, and an exclusive sunrise encounter with the Cape Kidnappers gannet colony await — a finale as unforgettable as the journey itself.
This package includes 4 nights' accommodation in 5 star lodges on a twin share basis. Our handpicked lodges are two of New Zealand’s most celebrated luxury lodges. Dramatically perched above the vast Pacific, Rosewood Cape Kidnappers enchants with clifftop opulence, world-class dining, and an award-winning wine cellar, while the legendary Huka Lodge invites you to surrender to riverside elegance, where masterfully crafted dinners and restorative spa therapies soothe the soul. With private guided, walks and private transfers as well as meals included as specified, you can explore in ultimate comfort and absolute exclusivity.
Drift between New Zealand’s most celebrated luxury lodges on a bespoke 5 day escape. From volcanic grandeur to private sunrise encounters, every exquisite moment of this North Island journey is crafted to leave you deeply restored and utterly captivated.
Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys to North Island. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.
This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points.
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Arrive into Taupo Airport (TUO) at your own arrangement, where a private transfer will whisk you away to the elegant Huka Lodge — one of New Zealand's most celebrated retreats, nestled on the banks of the Waikato River.
Upon arrival, settle into your beautifully appointed suite, where refined furnishings, warm natural tones, and sweeping river views set the tone for a deeply restorative stay. Each suite is thoughtfully designed to feel both luxurious and intimate, offering a private sanctuary to unwind.
At the heart of Huka Lodge is its celebrated dining experience. Each evening, gather in the elegant River Room for pre-dinner drinks and canapés before sitting down to a masterfully crafted four-course dinner, paired with premium wines selected from the Lodge's exceptional wine cellar — a carefully curated collection that reflects both Old World heritage and New World discovery.
Days at Huka Lodge unfold at your own pace. Explore the lush wellness grounds, take a moment on the sun-drenched terrace overlooking the river, or surrender to the restorative treatments at the Lodge's intimate spa, where tailored therapies are designed to refresh the body and calm the mind.
Your 2-night stay at Huka Lodge includes: daily country breakfast, pre-dinner drinks and canapés, a four-course dinner with matched premium wines, and a selected in-suite bar.
Begin your morning with a sumptuous breakfast before embarking on a privately guided expedition into Tongariro National Park. As New Zealand’s oldest national park and a dual-listed UNESCO World Heritage site, this region is globally renowned for both its dramatic volcanic geology and its deep cultural significance to the Māori people.
Your guided walk is entirely bespoke, tailored to your preferred pace and fitness level. Together with your expert guide, you will venture off the beaten track—avoiding the crowded main routes—to experience the tranquil beauty and raw power of this unique landscape.
THREE HIKING OPTIONS:
Easy: Taranaki Falls WalkApprox. 6 km (4 miles), 2 hours walking
Wander through gentle alpine grasslands and quiet beech forests to the spectacular Taranaki Falls. Here, you will watch the water plunge 20 meters over the edge of a 15,000-year-old lava flow into a boulder-fringed pool below. This trail offers magnificent, uninterrupted views of the towering, snow-dusted peaks of Mount Ruapehu and Mount Ngauruhoe.
Moderate: Taranaki Falls & Lake RotopounamuApprox. 11 km (7 miles), 6 hours walking
Combine the beauty of the falls with a journey to the serene Lake Rotopounamu, known as the "lake of greenstone." Nestled in a sacred volcanic crater and cradled by a lush, ancient podocarp forest, this secluded sanctuary is a haven for native wildlife. As you walk the loop track, listen for the calls of rare native birds, including the kaka, tui, and North Island robin.
Challenging: Taranaki Falls & Tama Lakes WalkApprox. 23 km (14 miles), 7 hours walking
For a more rigorous adventure, extend your hike past the falls and climb toward the magnificent Tama Lakes. Occupying a series of ancient explosion craters on the high alpine saddle between Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe, these deep, dark-blue lakes are surrounded by rugged alpine herb fields. A steep final climb to the upper viewpoint rewards you with a dramatic, panoramic look across the volcanic heart of the central plateau.
Savour a hearty breakfast before a private guided Opepe Forest walk. Wander through a timeless cathedral of towering Rimu and Matai trees, ancient giants unique to the Taupo region. The gentle terrain invites you to explore at a leisurely pace, while the forest comes alive with the melodic calls of native New Zealand birds, a true delight for birdwatching enthusiasts.
From the serenity of the forest, journey to Craters of the Moon, an extraordinary geothermal landscape perched above New Zealand's largest hydrothermal basin. Here, clouds of steam billow from the earth's surface, craters gape open before you, and vivid mineral colours paint the ground in otherworldly hues — a raw and captivating reminder of the volcanic forces that continue to shape this remarkable land.
A picnic lunch is provided before your private transfer to your next sanctuary at Rosewood Cape Kidnappers.
Dramatically perched atop the rugged Cape Kidnappers headland, overlooking sweeping views of Hawke's Bay and the vast Pacific Ocean, Rosewood Cape Kidnappers is one of New Zealand's most celebrated luxury retreats. The property offers an exceptional array of world-class facilities, including a serene spa and wellness centre, an outdoor heated pool, an award-winning wine cellar showcasing the finest Hawke's Bay vintages, and exceptional farm-to-table dining that highlights the region's incredible local produce. Unwind in your Hilltop Junior Suite, perched above the main lodge, offering sweeping, uninterrupted views across the rolling estate to the sparkling Pacific Ocean and beyond.
Your 2-night stay includes a pre-dinner aperitif, gourmet dinner, breakfast, and a complimentary non-alcoholic minibar.
Note: Room upgrade available, please contact us.
Be among the very first in the world to welcome the dawn of a new day as the sun rises in a spectacular display of gold and amber over the Pacific. The East Cape and Hawkes Bay Coast are the first places in the world to see the sun rise out of the ocean. This unique tour to the Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony is a personal encounter with the remarkable birds, situated at the impressive Cape itself. As the morning light illuminates the breathtaking vistas, savour a curated continental breakfast paired with freshly brewed coffee.
As the rest of the day unfolds, surrender to the sublime tranquillity at Rosewood Cape Kidnappers at your own leisure. Indulge in a bespoke spa treatment that melds natural botanicals with expert techniques, designed to restore balance and rejuvenate both body and mind. For the explorers, embark on a self-guided walk on the several walking tracks on property. Wander through the tranquil grounds, where every turn reveals breathtaking vistas of lush landscapes and dramatic cliffs, or take a refreshing dip in the infinity pool, seamlessly blending with the horizon. For the wine connoisseur, savour a Hawke’s Bay private wine tasting tour (at an additional cost). Taste your way through the stunning landscape of Hawke’s Bay sampling exceptional wines and local gourmet delights.
Savour one last serene breakfast and unwind in your cosy suite surrounded by the breathtaking Hawke’s Bay scenery, a perfect time to reflect on your incredible journey before a private transfer to Hawke’s Bay Airport (NPE).
NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.
Departure daily on request. Please contact us for group bookings or private departures.
- The departure point is Taupo.
- The finish point is Hawke’s Bay.
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Taupo. The closest airport is Taupō Airport (TUO) and it is about 8 km from Taupō town centre, which is roughly a 10–15 minute drive.
The North Island of New Zealand enjoys a temperate maritime climate, with warm summers and mild winters that make it a comfortable destination throughout the year. Summer runs from December to February, when daytime temperatures across Auckland, Rotorua and Taupō typically sit between 20°C and 26°C (68°F to 79°F), while Wellington, cooled by coastal breezes, tends to be a degree or two lower. Winter, from June to August, brings milder conditions than most travellers expect: Taupō can dip to around 2°C to 4°C (36°F to 39°F) overnight, occasionally with frost. Autumn and spring are transitional, with pleasant daytime temperatures generally ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). Rainfall is spread fairly evenly across the seasons, so light layers and a good waterproof jacket are worth packing regardless of when you visit. For those planning their itinerary, the shoulder seasons of March and November offer a rewarding balance of settled weather and fewer crowds.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.Payment DetailAll pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 90 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 90 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.Single SupplementAll accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.General Cancellation Policies- Outside of 90 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee- Within 90 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurancePlease Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.LiabilityThe participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.Child PolicyPlease consult travel consultant on age limit.Changes to ItinerariesLocal conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.Changes in PricesWhile we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age LimitsYou need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.Cancellation by The Tour OperatorThe walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.Force Majeure'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.EvacuationsIn rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.Travel InsuranceIn view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.