Epic New Zealand
Lose yourself in this wild matrix of luxurious lodges, unparalleled scenery, vast wilderness and rugged beauty as you delve deep into the South Island of New Zealand. Explore untouched lands and photograph epic landscapes. Witness tussock clad-plains, monolithic mountains, glacial lakes, endemic forests and undulating farmlands, not to mention staying at some of New Zealand’s most iconic wilderness properties.
Journey highlights
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Say goodbye to bustling cities and escape the crowds as you embrace breath-taking landscapes and wild scenery in abundance
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Dive deep into some of the South Islands most remote wilderness areas; from glaciers to mountains, lakes to rolling farmlands
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Adventure doesn't mean sacrificing on comfort or luxury – you will be spoiled with utterly luxurious retreats with unparalleled facilities and unique style
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Indulge in world class cuisine and local wines throughout, keeping you fuelled up and ready for the next adventure
- Epic itinerary:Our Epic Journeys offer unforgettable cutting-edge hotels, experiences and restaurants with a focus on design, fashion and innovation
Our tailor made journeys include:
- Your dedicated Travel Consultant who will take care of arrangements
- Private international airport transfers in destination
- Your own private, English-speaking local guides
- Unique experiences, hand-picked by our Journeys team
- Entrance to must-see local sites
- Dedicated 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
- Complimentary access to My Scott Dunn – industry-leading travel app providing pre-departure information and in-journey support
When to visit
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- J
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- S
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- D
The climate in New Zealand is incredibly pleasant, with warm and balmy summers and cold crisp winter months with wonderful clear, blue skies. The warmer high-season months of November to April are perfect for outdoor exploration. The colder months of June to August are the best time to ski.
Both North and South Islands are drier on the east coast, rather than on the west, where mountain ranges act as a trap for the moisture-rich winds from the Tasman Sea. It is also worth remembering that it is usually a few degrees cooler on the South Island than the North Island and as New Zealand has a maritime climate, the weather can change rapidly.
Itinerary
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At a Glance
Plunge straight into your epic tour around South Island heading first to your hideaway on Banks Peninsula, just a scenic hour's drive (or 15 minute helicopter) from Christchurch, you can sample rural New Zealand at its best here at Annandale, a collection of four distinctive yet laid back luxury villas. Each of the private and secluded villas has its own character and style giving you your own slice of hidden wilderness. A perfect spot to recover after your flight before heading further south. While at Annandale, you can see all kinds of wildlife, including dolphins and some of New Zealand's unique native birds, experience an exhilarating 4WD farm tour, mountain biking, hiking, or perhaps even help with some sheep and cattle mustering!
Dining at Annandale is a true pleasure, and there is total flexibility to choose the level of service you require, from private chef to stocked pantry, allowing you to make the experience your own. If you'd prefer not to cook for yourself on vacation, then we can arrange for the award-winning chef to come and cater for your every need.Where to stay
Annandale (1 night)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
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At a Glance
Continue further south to the doorstep of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park in the beautiful Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Area. In this stunning wilderness you will be staying at the salubrious Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat. Surrounded by forest overlooking the turquoise blue waters of Lake Pukaki and the Ben Ohau ranges, the night sky is spectacular as the property being located within the gold level Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve – perfect for stargazing from your luxury homestead terrace or alfresco hot tub.
We’ve included a glacier kayaking experience in the Mount Cook National Park. New Zealand’s longest glacier winds its way for 29km before culminating at the terminal lake – a truly spectacular sight that you can witness on this half day tour kayaking the surrounding glacial lake, ending with a memorable lunch on the banks of the Tasman Lake – nowhere else in New Zealand can you experience an adventure of this kind.Where to stay
Mount Cook Lakeside Retreat (2 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
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At a Glance
Your next stop will be on the beautiful West Coast. Nestled in the pristine Ahuriri Valley, you will find The Lindis. New Zealand’s newest luxury lodge has been created for you to unwind and relax while taking in the surrounding idyllic setting. Exuding wild luxury, encircled by a rugged landscape of wetlands, tussock land and mountains and adjacent to three conservation parks, The Lindis not only provides you with exceptional views both day and night but has also been architecturally designed to mirror the landscape it resides in. Food and wine here is equally as impressive and the daily menu’s pay homage to the wide variety of local produce the Central Otago and Canterbury region of the South Island is known for.
Activities here are abundant. Located near to one of the most renowned fly-fishing areas a wide variety of fishing-related activities are available while you can also partake in horse trekking rides, cycling tours, and exhilarating 4WD tours. The fertile wine producing region of Central Otago borders the Ahuriri Valley, so we have included a private boutique wine tour of the area, personalized exactly to your needs and wishes. You will be shown the vineyards, processes and of course get to sample some wine, followed by a divine lunch with wine at one of the exclusive vineyards, all making for a sublime day out.Where to stay
The Lindis (2 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
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At a Glance
Time to head on to Wanaka in the Southern Lakes, where Mahu Whenua Ridgeline Homestead & Eco Sanctuary is waiting for you. A heavenly property which sits across 500 square kilometers of outstanding natural beauty, all protected by the Queen Elizabeth II National Trust. Maori for 'healing the land', this is far more than your average eco-lodge, and, located just 20-minutes away from Wanaka. Each stay includes breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as morning and afternoon teas, canapés, any refreshments including wine and other beverages. You can also request picnics which can be served up during your time exploring the great outdoors here.
For a rush of extreme adrenalin, you must experience the Shotover Jet boat ride! From the moment the accelerator hits the floor your adrenaline hits the roof as you speed in mere centimeters of water along the famous Shotover River. The Canyon walls tower over you, as your expert driver puts your ‘Big Red’ through its paces and skilfully whips the jet boat past rocky outcrops, skims around crags and boulders, and speeds through the narrow canyons. After all that thrill seeking, return to the haven of your lodge for an afternoon cup of warming tea and a piece of cake, cheese platters on the terrace with some wine or pre-dinner canapés by the fire – paradise in wilderness!Where to stay
Mahu Whenua Ridgeline Homestead & Eco Sanctuary (3 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
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At a Glance
On to Queenstown – the adventure capital of the world and a title as impressive as the landscape this small alpine town it overlooks. A picture postcard, Queenstown lies on the shores of the expansive snow-fed, glacial Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by mountains. In winter the town is alive with the buzz of skiers and snowboarders while in summer the multiple vineyards of the Central Otago region open their doors and green vineyards appear across the landscape as if on request. Just 30 minutes from Queenstown you will be staying on the beautiful and remote shores of Lake Wakatipu at the stunning Blanket Bay retreat. The views are out of this world - around you, snow-capped mountains hold court over wild rivers and hillsides of golden grasslands, and ancient forests huddle up to crystal clear lakes. All rooms and suites at Blanket Bay are filled with sumptuous furnishings and elegant rugs and creature comforts are never lacking. You can enjoy pre-dinner cocktails and refined cuisine in a choice of dining venues both indoors, outdoors and even underground in the wine cave.
From Blanket Bay the choice of activities and day trips is voluminous - from heli-skiing and heli-fishing to horse riding, rafting and mountain biking there is something to suit all levels of experience and adventure. Back at the lodge a comforting Jacuzzi, sauna or dip in the lap pool await and in-room massage could be just what you need to revive you before cocktail hour begins. We’ve included a fly fishing experience on the Southern Lakes, renowned as one of the top trout fishing destinations, having crystal clear water allows early spotting of the fish however this clarity also means that while you can see them, they can see you. This is one of the best places to try the sport and see what you can catch, whether an experienced angler or a complete novice!Where to stay
Blanket Bay (3 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
Price Guide: (Per person based on double occupancy and excludes international flights)
| Departing |
Price from*
|
Deposit from * | Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|
| October 2025 | $15,700 | $3,900 | plan your trip |
| November 2025 | $17,100 | $4,300 | plan your trip |
| December 2025 | $17,100 | $4,300 | plan your trip |
| January 2026 | $17,100 | $4,300 | plan your trip |
| February 2026 | $17,100 | $4,300 | plan your trip |
| March 2026 | $15,700 | $3,900 | plan your trip |
| April 2026 | $15,700 | $3,900 | plan your trip |
| May 2026 | $15,700 | $3,900 | plan your trip |
| June 2026 | $14,300 | $3,600 | plan your trip |
| July 2026 | $14,300 | $3,600 | plan your trip |
| August 2026 | $14,300 | $3,600 | plan your trip |
| September 2026 | $15,700 | $3,900 | plan your trip |
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October 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$15,700
Deposit from*$3,900
-
November 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$17,100
Deposit from*$4,300
-
December 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$17,100
Deposit from*$4,300
-
January 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$17,100
Deposit from*$4,300
-
February 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$17,100
Deposit from*$4,300
-
March 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$15,700
Deposit from*$3,900
-
April 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$15,700
Deposit from*$3,900
-
May 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$15,700
Deposit from*$3,900
-
June 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$14,300
Deposit from*$3,600
-
July 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$14,300
Deposit from*$3,600
-
August 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$14,300
Deposit from*$3,600
-
September 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$15,700
Deposit from*$3,900
- plan your trip
Experiences in this tour
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![Manchester United]()
View ExperiencePrivate Manchester United Football Stadium Tour
Guests will embark on an exclusive private tour of Old Trafford, the iconic home of Manchester United.
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![Liverpool district tour]()
View ExperiencePrivate Liverpool Historic Dock District Tour
A visit to this historic dock in Liverpool promises a captivating blend of history, culture, and waterfront charm, with stunning architecture, world-class museums, vibrant galleries, and trendy restaurants
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![Fiordland Traverse]()
View ExperiencePrivate Helicopter Charter Fiordland Traverse
The remote and dramatically beautiful landscape of the West Coast, Fiordland and World Heritage Park are best discovered by helicopter, high above the rugged peaks, expansive waterways and pristine wildernesses of the region.
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![Solar Eclipse]()
View Experience2026 Solar Eclipse - Fisherman's Village
Experience the rare total solar eclipse visible from Reykjavik for the first time since 1433. Celebrate in Álftanes, a charming village just 15 minutes from the city center, offering stunning sea views.
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![Monk Experience]()
View ExperienceSpiritual journey with Hermit Monks
Enjoy an insider's tour of the birthplace of Buddhism and engage in meaningful interactions with a resident monk, and conclude with experiencing herbal tea and traditional snacks.
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![Milford Sound]()
View ExperienceFly Nature Cruise on Milford Sound - Heli (Shared)
New Zealand’s incredible breadth of landscapes and staggering beauty becomes clear as you take to the skies over Lake Wakatipu and the glacial lakes, before cruising across the wildlife rich waters of Milford Sound on this shared experience.
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![Dart River Jet Boat Safari]()
View ExperienceDart River Jet Boat Safari (Shared)
The Dart River Jet Boat Wilderness Safari is a spectacular Jet Boat journey through the Dart River located at the foot of Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by breathtaking snow-capped mountains, waterfalls and glacial valleys frozen in time.
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![Peko Trail Experince]()
View ExperienceThe Pekoe Trail
Embark on the Pekoe Trail, Sri Lanka's first long-distance hike from Hanthana to Nuwara Eliya, guided by a local expert, as you traverse stunning tea plantations, iconic landmarks, and diverse landscapes.
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![Te Anau Glowworm Caves - Lake Te Anau]()
View ExperienceTe Anau Glowworm Caves (Shared)
Experience the enchanting caves of Te Anau, which shimmer with the light of hundreds of glowworms.
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We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itineraryis a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely personalized to you. Call us on 858 345 1762 to start planning your vacation.
Why Scott Dunn for Luxury Tours?
Unique to You
- We listen to your travel goals and craft unique trips that are personalized to you.
- We’re with you every step of your life’s travel journey, from honeymoons to family trips and beyond.
Seamless Service
- Global offices in the UK, US, Singapore, and Hong Kong for 24/7 seamless service.
- We offer flexibility if your plans change so you can book with confidence and peace of mind.
Carefully Curated Collection
- We’ve curated an elevated collection of accommodation, experiences, and guides.
- Committed to fostering close global relationships to continue bringing you unique experiences.
Luxury in Every Sense
- We deliver a sense of luxury that matters most to you.
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