New Zealand Luxury Itinerary: 1 Month / 4 Weeks / 30 Days

30-Day Luxury Itinerary for New Zealand

It’s the trip of a lifetime; travelling one of the world’s most aesthetically diverse countries for one entire month! Make it extra special with luxury in mind by staying at premium lodges, resorts and hotels. Indulge in fine food and experience once-in-a-lifetime activities at some of New Zealand’s must-visit destinations. It’s all here in this New Zealand luxury itinerary for one month.

This New Zealand luxury itinerary for 30 days is ideal for the independent traveller who enjoys the privacy of travelling in a rental car (or motorhome) at their own pace. Nevertheless, we give plenty of tips on alternative ways to travel the country should driving not entice you. Discover a month of excitement, indulgence and luxury in this complete one-month New Zealand itinerary for luxury travellers. What’s more, we show you how to plan this itinerary the EASY way with First Light Travel – more on that at the bottom of the itinerary.

New Zealand Luxury Itinerary for 1 Month (30 Days): Overview

Day 1 – Auckland Airport to Waiheke Island
Day 2 – Waiheke Island to Whangarei
Day 3 – Whangarei to the Bay of Islands
Day 4 – Explore the Bay of Islands
Day 5 – Bay of Islands to Auckland
Day 6 – Auckland to Rotorua (via Waitomo)
Day 7 – Explore Rotorua
Day 8 – Rotorua to Taupo
Day 9 – Explore Taupo
Day 10 – Taupo to Napier
Day 11 – Napier to Palmerston North
Day 12 – Palmerston North to Wellington
Day 13 – Explore Wellington
Day 14 – Wellington to Picton
Day 15 – Explore Picton and the Marlborough Sounds
Day 16 – Picton to Nelson and the Abel Tasman National Park
Day 17 – Explore the Abel Tasman National Park
Day 18 – Nelson to Kaikoura
Day 19 – Explore Kaikoura
Day 20 – Kaikoura to Christchurch
Day 21 – Christchurch to Greymouth
Day 22 – Greymouth to Franz Josef Glacier
Day 23 – Explore Franz Josef
Day 24 – Franz Josef to Wanaka
Day 25 – Wanaka to Queenstown
Day 26 – Explore Queenstown
Day 27 – Explore More of Queenstown or Fly to Milford Sound
Day 28 – Queenstown to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park
Day 29 – Explore Aoraki Mt Cook National Park
Day 30 – Aoraki Mt Cook National Park to Christchurch Airport

New Zealand Luxury Itinerary: One Month / 4 Weeks / 30 Days 🍷

How to Get Around New Zealand in 1 Month

The below itinerary is best done as a self-driven experience. There are plenty of rental vehicle options in New Zealand, from electric cars to luxury motorhomes. We also incorporate a few other transport methods into this itinerary such as a train journey and connecting flights.

Rental Car or Campervan

This itinerary is best done by driving yourself in a rental vehicle. Use a rental company that has depots in Auckland and Christchurch, then Greymouth and Christchurch, as you will be swapping rental vehicles between the TranzAlpine train journey. Get more advice by using The Guide to Renting a Car or The Guide Renting a Campervan in New Zealand.

Helicopter Transfers

Use a helicopter transfer as a quick way to get between destinations when you first arrive in Auckland. INFLITE/Heletranz offer airport transfers.

Ferries

This itinerary includes a trip on the ferry between Wellington and Picton (i.e. the North Island and the South Island). Find out more in The Ferry Between the North Island and South Island. There is also the option to take the ferry between Auckland and Waiheke Island, which you can learn more about in our guide to Public Transport in Auckland.

Train

This itinerary includes a one-way train journey on the TranzAlpine. Find out more on the Train Network in New Zealand.

Domestic Flights

The below itinerary begins in Auckland and ends in Christchurch. Both cities have international airports and are well-connected with domestic flights. If you’re leaving from Auckland, you will need to consider booking a domestic flight from Christchurch to Auckland.

Escorted Tours

Finally, if driving and organising your own trip is something you’d rather leave to the professionals, then consider taking an escorted tour of the country. Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours offer 24-day tours of New Zealand with accommodation, some meals and activities included. Note that they will follow their own set itinerary; not the one listed below. For more options, take a look at The Best 20+ Days Tours of New Zealand.

And if you’re new to the whole road-tripping thing, be sure to make it as smooth as possible following the 10 Ways to Relax on a Road Trip.

New Zealand Luxury Itinerary: One Month / 30 Days

Day 1 – Auckland Airport to Waiheke Island

Travel time: 40 minutes drive then 40 minutes ferry or 15 minutes helicopter flight

Welcome to Aotearoa New Zealand! If you’re staying here for a month, chances are you have come from far. With that in mind, we recommend getting over the jet lag with a wine in hand on Waiheke Island. Either take a helicopter transfer from Auckland Airport to your Waiheke accommodation for a quick and easy way to get to the island or take a taxi then a ferry then an accommodation transfer.

On Waiheke Island, relax with some of the luxury experiences available, from winery-hopping tours to spa retreats within the luxury lodges. Get a good night’s rest, as you’ll be heading back to the mainland tomorrow where your trip really begins!

Luxury Experiences on Waiheke Island

Do a winery and olive grove tour with Ananda Tours (more info on Viator and Klook)
Indulge in a spa treatment at one of the island’s luxury lodges, such as Marino Ridge or Delamore Lodge
Zipline over vineyards and native forest with Ecozip Adventures (on Viator and Klook)
Do a guided Waiheke Island art walk with Terra & Tide.

For more inspiration, take a look at the 9 Glorious Things to Do on Waiheke Island.

Luxury Accommodation on Waiheke Island

Day 2 – Waiheke Island to Whangarei

Travel time: 40 minutes ferry then 2 hrs 30 mins drive

After some rejuvenation on Waiheke Island, it’s time to take a scenic ferry trip through the Hauraki Gulf to Auckland Central (ferry tickets are available on Klook and KKday). There, you can get your car rental delivered to the ferry terminal then hit the road northward to Whangarei. Just outside of the city, you’ll find one of the best scuba diving sites at the Poor Knights Islands.

Plan more of your visit using The Luxury Guide to Whangarei.

Luxury Experiences in Whangarei

Dive at the famous Poor Knights Islands
Test your swing at the stunning Waipu Golf Club
Ride on the beaches with Coastal Riding Whangarei Heads
Connect with the local culture with a small-group experience with Tu Tika Tours
Indulge in fine dining at TopSail, Tonic and more.

Get more details on each experience and more in the 8 Luxury Experiences in Whangarei.

Luxury Accommodation in Whangarei

Discover our top picks in the 5 Best Luxury Accommodations in Whangarei.

Day 3 – Whangarei to the Bay of Islands

Travel time: 1 hr 5 mins

Not too far from Whangarei is Paihia and the Bay of Islands – a beautiful bay scattered with 144 islands. There are many glorious ways to enjoy this sub-tropical part of New Zealand between private cruises and thrilling skydives. Choose your style of experience from the list below and don’t worry, you’ll have plenty of time to do more exquisite experiences tomorrow.

Luxury Experiences in the Bay of Islands

Fly over the Bay of Islands with Salt Air
Indulge in a spa day at one of the luxury hotels
Skydive from 20,000ft with Skydive Bay of Islands
Get a tailored experience of the Bay on a private charter with Sea Shuttle Bay of Islands
Have a swing at the Kauri Cliffs Golf Course.

Discover more about each experience in the 810 Luxury Experiences in the Bay of Islands.

Luxury Accommodation in the Bay of Islands

For more information on our top picks, see the 10 Best Luxury Accommodations in the Bay of Islands.

Day 4 – Explore the Bay of Islands

Experience the Bay of Islands your way, whether it’s a day trip to one of the stunning golf courses like Kauri Cliffs or simply kicking back with gorgeous views at your accommodation.

If there’s nothing listed from yesterday that takes your fancy, how about the following?

Luxury Experiences in the Bay of Islands

Hire your own sailing charter with Vigilant Yacht Charters or Phantom Sailing
Do a private winery-hopping tour with the Kernhem Group
Soar over the islands on a private parasailing charter with Flying Kiwi Parasail
Take a scenic tour of the bay on a V8 Tricycle
Treat yourself to one of the fine dining restaurants or wineries.

Discover more about each experience in the 10 Luxury Experiences in the Bay of Islands.

Day 5 – Bay of Islands to Auckland

Travel time: 3 hrs 20 mins (or 4 hrs 50 mins via the east coast)

Do any morning activities you might have missed yesterday before setting off southbound for Auckland following State Highway 1. Alternatively, take the scenic route via Omapere and the Kauri Coast, which allows you to stop at natural marvels such as the largest kauri tree in New Zealand, Tane Mahuta. Better yet, stop by the Kauri Museum for a private tour to learn about the significance of these trees.

You’ll then arrive in Auckland Central, New Zealand’s largest city. Why not dine in the revolving restaurant atop the Sky Tower or browse the Auckland Art Gallery? Those feeling more adventurous can experience the speed of an America’s Cup yacht at the Waitemata Harbour with Explore. Find out more about the latter on Viator or Klook.

Luxury Experiences in Auckland

See the city from spectacular heights in a helicopter or seaplane tour with Auckland Helicopters, Heletranz or Auckland Seaplanes
Inspire yourself at the Auckland Art Gallery
Hit the water for a lunch cruise or on an America’s Cup yacht (on Viator and Klook)
Try your luck at the vibrant SkyCity Casino
Discover Auckland’s historical and cultural sites on a Maori culture tour with TIME Unlimited Tours.

Find out more about each experience in our 10 Luxury Experiences in Auckland.

Luxury Accommodation in Auckland

Find out more about each accommodation in the 25 Best Luxury Hotels in Auckland.

Day 6 – Auckland to Rotorua (via Waitomo)

Travel time: 2 hrs 30 mins (via Waitomo: 4 hours)

Leave the big city behind for a road trip down the North Island. While you could drive straight to Rotorua, stopping by the picturesque Hamilton Gardens, we recommend taking a wee bit of a detour to Waitomo…

Waitomo is the location of New Zealand’s most famous glowworm caves, a subterranean underworld with magnificent limestone formations teeming with glistening glowworms. There are many ways to experience the caves, from private caving tours to boat tours. Compare your options in the 8 Best Waitomo Cave Tours and the 10 Luxury Experiences in Waitomo.

Luxury Experiences in Waitomo

Delve on an exclusive private tour of Waitomo’s caves with Glowing Adventures
Abseil, float and scramble through the caves with The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co. (on Viator and Klook)
Experience an enchanting boat ride under the glowworms at the Waitomo Glowworms Caves
Relax with a spa treatment at Waitomo Adventures
Tackle a multi-day cycling experience with Timber Trail Lodge.

For elaboration on each experience and more, see the 10 Luxury Experiences in Waitomo.

Your final stop today is Rotorua, which we will get into in tomorrow’s listing. For now, check-in at one of the premium accommodations in Rotorua.

Luxury Accommodation in Rotorua

For elaboration on our top recommendations, browse the 20 Best Luxury Accommodations in Rotorua.

Day 7 – Explore Rotorua

You have the entire day to explore Rotorua, its geothermal wonders and immersive Maori culture. Fly onto one of the nearby volcanoes on a unique helicopter tour with Volcanic Air (more info on Viator and Klook) or gain a greater understanding of the New Zealand culture on a private Maori tour with Kahukiwi Experiences.

After the day’s adventure, retreat to your accommodation or book a table to do some fine dining, New Zealand style, at Mokoia Restaurant (at the Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort) or Regent Room (at the Regent of Rotorua).

Luxury Experiences in Rotorua

Visit Rotorua’s geothermal and volcanic highlights with Elite Adventures
Fly and land on the Mt Tarawera volcano with Volcanic Air (on Viator and Klook)
Enjoy an authentic Maori tour with Kahukiwi Experiences
Drive the 4WD challenges at Off Road NZ
See one of the most stunning and off-the-beaten-track forests with Foris Eco-Tours.

For more details on each experience, as well as other ideas, check out the 10 Luxury Experiences in Rotorua.

Day 8 – Rotorua to Taupo

Travel time: 1 hour

While it is only a short journey from Rotorua to Taupo, it’s worth breaking it up by exploring the lunar landscape of Orakei Korako.

Afterwards, your final destination is Taupo on the shores of New Zealand’s largest lake. Relax your road trip aches in one of the town’s premium hot pool complexes or check out the town’s eclectic dining scene, where we list recommendations in The Luxury Guide to Taupo. You’ll have time to do some more meaty activities tomorrow. For now, indulge in a couple of nights at Taupo’s most lavish accommodations.

Luxury Accommodation in Taupo

For elaboration on our top recommendations, see the 15 Best Luxury Accommodations in Taupo.

Day 9 – Explore Taupo

There are countless ways to experience Taupo, so you’re sure to find something to suit your style. It could be relaxing on a private fishing charter catching rainbow trout with Chris Jolly Outdoors or jumping out of a perfectly good plane in an adrenaline-fuelled skydive with Taupo Tandem Skydiving. If neither suits, then there’s a lot more on offer as shown in the list below.

Luxury Experiences in Taupo

Ride the Great Lake Trails on a personalised tour with Taupo Kayaking Adventures (more info on Viator or Klook)
Indulge in the mineral hot pools and spa treatments of Taupo’s premium hot pool complexes, like Taupo DeBretts
See the lake and volcanoes from above on a scenic flight with Taupo’s Floatplane or Chopper Worx Taupo
Hit the ski slopes of Mt Ruapehu
Play golf on some of New Zealand’s most prestigious golf courses like Wairakei Golf and Sanctuary or the Kinloch Club.

For more information on each experience and more, be sure to check out the 10 Luxury Experiences in Taupo.

Day 10 – Taupo to Napier

Travel time: 1 hr 50 mins

It’s time to travel over the hill to Napier and the Hawke’s Bay region, famous for its unusual art deco architecture and for being New Zealand’s oldest wine region. Leave yourself enough time in the day to jump on a premium wine tour, visiting the region’s oldest wineries. Check out the tour with Vines and Views Tours.

For those who prefer to connect with nature, a fantastic experience is witnessing New Zealand’s largest mainland gannet colony and the dramatic cliff formations of Cape Kidnappers. Join Gannet Safaris Overland for either a group or private 4WD tour of this hard-to-reach site.

Luxury Experiences in Napier

Tour Napier and its winery in a vintage VW Kombi with Avantogo Tours
Take a private art deco tour with the Art Deco Trust
Get the real Maori experience with Waimarama Maori Tours
See New Zealand’s largest mainland gannet colony with Gannet Safaris Overland
Experience rafting in an epic river with Mohaka Rafting.

Find out more about each experience and its location in the 10 Luxury Experiences in Napier.

Luxury Accommodation in Napier

For more information on our top recommendations, see the 10 Best Luxury Accommodations in Napier.

Day 11 – Napier to Palmerston North

Travel time: 2 hrs 20 mins

Your North Island journey continues today with a drive down the Hawke’s Bay region through the Manawatu Gorge complete with stunning walks through lush native forest. The main hub of the area is Palmerston North, which is nearby some exciting experiences, such as horse trekking with Makoura Lodge and roastery tours with Arrosta Coffee.

Luxury Experiences in Palmerston North

Experience sublime scenery on a horse trek at Makoura Lodge
Tee off at Palmerston North’s premium golf courses
Do some boutique shopping down George Street
Tour the Arrosta Coffee Roastery
Indulge in a luxury spa day at Hiwinui Country Estate.

For elaboration on each experience and more, see the 6 Luxury Experiences in Palmerston North.

Luxury Accommodation in Palmerston North

For more information on our top picks, take a look at the 10 Best Luxury Accommodations in Palmerston North.

Day 12 – Palmerston North to Wellington

Travel time: 2 hours

Today’s destination is New Zealand’s coolest little capital, the city of Wellington. There’s something for just about any city-lover here, from the renowned Te Papa Museum and its guided tours (more info on Viator and Klook) to its whisky bar and craft brewery scene. On the other hand, those who prefer the wilderness will certainly get a sense of it at the Zealandia Ecosanctuary and its special night tours to see kiwi birds. Check out Viator or Klook to find out more about these night tours.

We’ll go through some more things to do in tomorrow’s listing. In the meantime, enjoy a night in the city with one of these premium stays…

Luxury Accommodation in Wellington

Find out more about each accommodation in our 15 Best Luxury Accommodations in Wellington.

Day 13 – Explore Wellington

Explore the city of Wellington along with its designer boutiques and trendy bars. If you want to get away from it all or see it from a new angle, however, Wellington Helicopters can help with their deluxe tours. Fly to the Whaekauhau Country Estate set among lush countryside and rolling hills where you’ll indulge in a five-course gourmet lunch. Alternatively, explore the outskirts of Wellington, including its seal colonies, the Cook Strait and the Karori Rock Lighthouse on the Wellington South Coast Discovery tour.

If taking to the skies is not your vibe, then there are also the following experiences.

Luxury Experiences in Wellington

Play at one of Wellington’s prestigious golf courses
Explore Wellington’s designer boutiques
Join a wine tour of the Wairarapa wine region with Zozo Travel
Try fine whisky at the city’s reputable whisky bars
See Wellington from new heights with Wellington Helicopters (more info on Viator or Klook).

Find out more about each experience and much more in the 10 Luxury Experiences in Wellington.

Day 14 – Wellington to Picton

Travel time: 3 hours ferry

Enjoy a scenic journey across the Cook Strait through Wellington Harbour to the stunning Marlborough Sounds. Revel in the sound landscape while looking out for dolphins while on one of the world’s most scenic ferry journeys. Make your trip extra special by booking into one of the adults-only lounges with Interislander with food and drink included. Book tickets on Direct Ferries, Viator or Klook.

We don’t recommend that you leave your arrival town on the South Island just yet, as there’s more to explore in the Marlborough Sounds. In fact, the sounds are home to some of the most prestigious resorts in New Zealand, giving you a fabulous holiday away from your, well, holiday.

Luxury Accommodation in Picton

For more details on our top recommendations, take a look at the 10 Best Luxury Accommodations in Picton.

Day 15 – Explore Picton and the Marlborough Sounds

The sparkling waters of the Marlborough Sounds are ever enticing from the trails of the renowned Queen Charlotte Track or a seafood cruise with the Marlborough Tour Company (more info on Viator and Klook). However, if you need a reason to travel inland, we’ll give you one: the Marlborough wine region. Marlborough is the largest wine region in New Zealand, notorious for its Sauvignon Blanc that can be sipped in exorbitance on a private wine tour with Hop n Grape Wine Tours (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor).

But if none of those excites you, how about delving into our list of other premium activities in Picton and the Marlborough region?

Luxury Experiences in Picton

Hike the Queen Charlotte Track
Enjoy a private Marlborough region wine tour (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor)
Take to the skies in a scenic flight over Marlborough with Pelorus Air or Coast to Coast Helicopters
Indulge in a relaxing spa treatment at the Bay of Many Coves
Sail the Marlborough Sounds with Sounds by Sail or Steadfast.

For more details on each experience and others, see our 10 Luxury Experiences in Picton.

Day 16 – Picton to Nelson and the Abel Tasman National Park

Travel time: 1 hr 50 mins to Nelson then 55 minutes to the Abel Tasman National Park

Leave the Marlborough Sounds behind for New Zealand’s sunniest city, Nelson. There are two routes to get there from Picton, either via Blenheim where you can visit wineries if you haven’t done so yet or the winding scenic route via Queen Charlotte Drive. Both have the same driving time.

You may want to base yourself in the city of Nelson, so you’re close to various eateries and wineries and have a wider selection of accommodation. Alternatively, it’s another 55 minutes to the Abel Tasman National Park where most Abel Tasman tours depart.

You have more time to explore tomorrow. For now, enjoy the luxury of your chosen accommodation.

Luxury Accommodation in Nelson

For more details on our top recommendations, browse the 10 Best Luxury Accommodations in Nelson.

Day 17 – Explore the Abel Tasman National Park

You’ll be forgiven for thinking you’ve wandered onto a tropical island when you put your feet in the golden sands of the Abel Tasman National Park. Admire its beauty from the air on helicopter and plane charters or get a little closer to the action by sailing on a catamaran yacht. You could even take a timeout from this itinerary with a three-day sailing holiday.

Luxury Experiences in Nelson and Abel Tasman National Park

Explore Nelson Tasman by helicopter with Helicopters Nelson
Take a scenic flight with Golden Bay Air
Do a day tour or liveaboard holiday with Abel Tasman Sailing Adventures
Hire a private charter with Abel Tasman Charters – Day Tours
Do a small-group or private tour of Abel Tasman or Golden Bay with Wine, Art & Wilderness.

For the finer details on each experience and others, take a look at the 10 Luxury Experiences in Nelson.

Day 18 – Nelson to Kaikoura

Travel time: 3 hrs 25 mins

You have yet another chance to explore the Marlborough wine region today as you leave Nelson for the South Island’s east coast. Today’s final destination is Kaikoura, which is famous for its abundance of year-round marine wildlife.

Mark your arrival with a mandatory meal of crayfish in New Zealand’s seafood capital. We have recommendations in The Luxury Guide to Kaikoura. Then unwind at your luxury lodge, hotel or boutique bed & breakfast.

Luxury Accommodation in Kaikoura

Find out more about each accommodation in our 10 Best Luxury Accommodations in Kaikoura.

Day 19 – Explore Kaikoura

A must-do is watching Kaikoura’s magnificent sperm whales and playful dusky dolphins. Experience this from a unique perspective on a scenic whale-watching flight. Tours are available with Wings Over Whales (more info on Viator and Klook). Alternatively, enjoy the manoeuvrability of flying over the whales by helicopter with South Pacific Helicopters or land on top of mountains in the remote alpine wilderness with Kaikoura Helicopters.

There are plenty of reasons to keep your feet firmly on the ground too between the private multi-day hike of the Kaikoura Coast Track to the scenic fairways of the Kaikoura Golf Course.

Luxury Experiences in Kaikoura

Fly over the whales and dolphins on a scenic plane or helicopter flight
Land in the majestic Kaikoura Mountains with Kaikoura Helicopters
Sample fresh crayfish at one of the restaurants
Walk the private Kaikoura Coast Track
Play golf on the Kaikoura Golf Course.

For more information on these luxury activities, check out the 10 Luxury Experiences in Kaikoura.

Day 20 – Kaikoura to Christchurch

Travel time: 2 hrs 25 mins

Head south to the South Island’s largest city, Christchurch. You could visit the wineries of the Waipara Valley independently or wait until you reach Christchurch for a small-group tour with Cheeky Wine Tours. Alternatively, take a one-hour detour to Hanmer Springs for the alpine resort town’s magnificent hot springs complex, as well as any of the 10 Luxury Experiences in Hanmer Springs.

If you head straight to Christchurch, however, you’ll have more time to hop onto a private luxury tour of the city with Legend Tours and Travels.

Whatever you decide to do throughout the day, this evening can be spent indulging in a four-course meal onboard the Christchurch Tramway Restaurant.

Return your rental vehicle to the Christchurch depot today, because tomorrow you are taking the train to the West Coast.

Luxury Accommodation in Christchurch

For more details on our top recommendations, take a look at the 10 Best Luxury Accommodations in Christchurch.

Day 21 – Christchurch to Greymouth

Travel time: 4 hours train

This morning, jump onboard the TranzAlpine for one of the world’s most scenic railway journeys. Starting from the Christchurch Railway Station, the journey with “Scenic Plus Class” carriages featuring panoramic windows takes you through the lush Canterbury Plains to the mountainous wilderness of the Arthur’s Pass National Park. Check out tickets on Viator or Klook.

Once you arrive in Greymouth, you’ll be able to pick up a new rental vehicle and head to your chosen accommodation. This afternoon, you will have time to take a swing at one of the local golf courses, do some boutique shopping or take a guided tour of the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks.

Luxury Experiences in Greymouth

See the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, Hokitika Gorge or other highlights with Explore West Coast
Cycle the West Coast Wilderness Trail
Play a round at one of the local golf courses
Fly and land in the majestic Southern Alps with Anderson Helicopters
Do some boutique shopping and gallery browsing in town.

For more details on each experience, see the 10 Luxury Experiences in Greymouth.

Luxury Accommodation in Greymouth

Find out more about each accommodation in the 5 Best Luxury Accommodations in Greymouth.

Day 22 – Greymouth to Franz Josef Glacier

Travel time: 2 hrs 10 mins

If the weather is favourable but forecast to be wet for the next couple of days, drive straight to Franz Josef so you don’t miss out on their helicopter and/or glacier hiking experiences. Otherwise, take our time on the way down to Franz Josef, perhaps to admire the vibrant blue pools of Hokitika Gorge or to experience the New Zealand rainforest from a different perspective on the West Coast Treetop Walk & Zipline.

We’ll talk more about what to do in Franz Josef tomorrow. For now, you have some fabulous stays to choose from.

Luxury Accommodation in Franz Josef

For more details on our top recommendations, take a look at the 5 Best Luxury Accommodations in Franz Josef.

Day 23 – Explore Franz Josef

Most travellers visit Franz Josef to set foot on a glacier. One of the most accessible and private options is a scenic helicopter flight complete with a snow landing, such as with HeliServices.NZ (more info on Viator and Klook). Alternatively, join a group tour to do a heli-hike on the glacier with Franz Josef Glacier Guides and The Helicopter Line (on Viator and KKday).

If you catch yourself in Franz Josef in bad weather, however, you can always soak the disappointment away at the Waiho Hot Tubs or be pampered at the Amaia Luxury Spa of the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier.

Luxury Experiences in Franz Josef

Hike on the ice of the Franz Josef Glacier with Franz Josef Glacier Guides and The Helicopter Line (find out more on Viator and KKday)
Catch salmon or brown trout at Lake Mapourika with Franz Josef Wilderness Tours (more info on Viator and Klook)
Do one of New Zealand’s most scenic skydives with Skydive Franz Josef & Fox Glacier (on Viator and Klook)
Indulge in a spa treatment at Amaia Luxury Spa
Be treated to degustation dining amidst the rainforest at Te Waonui Forest Retreat.

For more details on each experience and more, see our 10 Luxury Experiences in Franz Josef.

Day 24 – Franz Josef to Wanaka

Travel time: 3 hrs 40 mins

If you didn’t get the chance to fly over the glacier yesterday, today might be your chance. Otherwise, pray that the weather will change once you arrive in Haast where the tiny town has its own array of helicopter and fixed-wing excursions, as listed in the 7 Luxury Experiences in Haast. Otherwise, cruising down the Waiatoto River into the remote Mt Aspiring National Park is a fantastic rainy day activity thanks to the all-weather jet boat design of Waiatoto River Safaris.

Down the Haast Pass, you have an array of short walks to stunning waterfalls and blue pools to enjoy, as listed on the Department of Conservation website.

Because today was a long drive with plenty of action along the way, we’ll give you some things to do in Wanaka tomorrow… For now, fall onto your bed at your luxury apartment, lodge or resort.

Luxury Accommodation in Wanaka

For more information about each accommodation, see the 10 Best Luxury Accommodations in Wanaka.

Day 25 – Wanaka to Queenstown

Travel time: 1 hr 5 mins

Before you make for Queenstown today, see if there’s anything else you want to do in Wanaka other than gaze upon its majestic lake and mountain scenery.

Luxury Experiences in Wanaka

See Milford Sound in style via a scenic flight with Southern Alps Air
Gallop through the stunning Cardrona Valley on horseback with The Cardrona Hotel
Enjoy Wanaka’s most exclusive picnic spot accessed via 4WD with Wanaka 4×4 Explorer
Have a 3-in-1 wilderness experience with a scenic flight, self-guided hike and jet boat ride with Siberia Experience
Experience the scenery in a unique way with Wanaka Paragliding.

Find out more about each experience and much more in the 10 Luxury Experiences in Wanaka.

Then, enjoy a scenic drive over the Crown Range and the Cardrona Valley to the “Adrenaline Capital of New Zealand”, Queenstown. You have plenty of time to experience its tours in the upcoming days. For now, you might like to indulge in its restaurants with million-dollar views. Check out dining recommendations in The Luxury Guide to Queenstown.

Luxury Accommodation in Queenstown

Find out more about each premium accommodation in our 20 Best Luxury Accommodations in Queenstown.

Day 26 – Explore Queenstown

Adrenaline, food, wine, golf, scenery, spas: whatever your vibe is, Queenstown is likely to have it. In summer, tee off at some of New Zealand’s most prestigious golf courses, while winter is when the mountains beckon for uncrowded heli-skiing such as with Alpine Heliski. Explore the stunning surrounding of Queenstown on an exclusive private tour with Off Road 4X4 Queenstown. The list goes on between the 10 Luxury Experiences in Queenstown and the 45 Things to Do in Queenstown.

Luxury Experiences in Queenstown

Take a private 4WD excursion to Skippers Canyon
Play golf at Queenstown’s prestigious courses
Escape the crowds with heli-skiing with Alpine Heliski or at Queenstown’s private ski field, Soho Basin
Explore the Great Walks with an expert guide on a guided hike with Nomad Safaris (more info on Klook and Viator)
Do a wine and foodie tour with Queenstown Wine Trail (on Viator and Klook).

For more information on each experience, check out 10 Luxury Experiences in Queenstown.

Day 27 – Explore More of Queenstown or Fly to Milford Sound

You have plenty of time to do the Queenstown experience you might have missed so far. On the other hand, today could be the day that you discover the “Eighth Wonder of the World”.

By far the most luxurious way to experience Milford Sound is by plane or helicopter. What usually takes around four hours to drive to by car or bus takes just 35 minutes by plane, while incorporating views of magnificent glacier-carved valleys, mountains, alpine lakes and vast forest.

Once you arrive in Milford Sound, you can enjoy one of the two-hour cruises through the fiord, allowing you to experience the Fiordland National Park in two of the best ways. Compare flights and experiences with our 5 Best Scenic Flights to Milford Sound from Queenstown.

Day 28 – Queenstown to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park

Travel time: 3 hrs 10 mins

You have a long yet stunning journey ahead of you today, starting with the dramatic river scenery of Kawarau Gorge on your way to Cromwell. Do a wine tasting in Cromwell before heading north through what is deemed the most beautiful road in New Zealand, Lindis Pass. You’ll come out the other side in Omarama where a highlight includes soaking in the tubs of Hot Tubs Omarama.

The final stint to Aoraki Mt Cook is through the high country village of Twizel where you can stop by for a skydive with Skydive Mt. Cook.

Follow the vibrant blue waters of Lake Pukaki to Aoraki Mt Cook Village or to one of the luxury lodges around the lake. Devour Kiwi cuisine to the views of New Zealand’s highest mountains before calling it a night at your accommodation.

Luxury Accommodation in Mt Cook

For more details on each stay, take a look at the 5 Best Luxury Accommodations in Mt Cook.

Day 29 – Explore Aoraki Mt Cook National Park

This is your last day in the mountainous regions of the South Island so make the most of it. Take to the skies and land on a glacier in a ski plane with Mt Cook Ski Planes & Helicopters – one of the only places in the world where you can have this experience. Find out more on Viator or Klook. If you missed out on a glacier heli-hike in Franz Josef, then you get another chance here in Mt Cook on New Zealand’s longest glacier with Mt Cook Glacier Guiding.

Luxury Experiences in Mt Cook

Land on the Tasman Glacier in a ski plane (more details on Viator or Klook)
Do a heli-hike on New Zealand’s longest glacier with Mt Cook Glacier Guiding
Treat yourself to a spa day at Lakestone Lodge or Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat
Do a guided hike in the Aoraki Mt Cook National Park with Ultimate Hikes
Have a private picnic experience amongst the peak with Inflite Experiences.

For more details on each experience and more, see the 10 Luxury Experiences in Mt Cook.

Day 30 – Aoraki Mt Cook National Park to Christchurch Airport

Travel time: 4 hours

Your last day in New Zealand ends with one last Kiwi road trip; this time between Aoraki Mt Cook and Christchurch. Your first stop will be the lakeshores of Lake Tekapo for more mesmerising lake and mountain landscapes. Pick up souvenirs at the boutiques in Fairlie and, if you have time, check out the many vintage museums of Geraldine. The final leg of your journey is through the Canterbury Plains.

Remember to give yourself enough time to return your rental vehicle at Christchurch Airport. There are connecting flights from Christchurch Airport to Auckland Airport, as well as international flights out of Christchurch.

After one month in New Zealand travelling in luxury, it’s time to say herae rā and goodbye!

New Zealand Luxury Itinerary: 1 Month / 4 Weeks / 30 Days

Plan This Luxury Itinerary with First Light Travel

If you like this New Zealand luxury itinerary for one month but don’t like the hassle of planning everything yourself, then there’s a way to lighten the load. First Light Travel is an online travel agent specialising in luxury itineraries in New Zealand. Plus, using their service is super simple:

First, send First Light Travel an enquiry by completing their online form
Then, you’ll receive your customised luxury itinerary
Review your itinerary and work with your First Light Travel agent on perfecting it
Finally, First Light Travel will organise the rest including the bookings.

First Light Travel has access to more than 20,000 travel products, including almost all the tours and accommodations featured on this list (and more). With that and their local expertise here in New Zealand, they will create a well-catered luxury itinerary to meet your needs while also suggesting some dream travel experiences that you may have never heard of. They only work with companies where their past clients have had positive experiences, so you know you’re in good hands.

What’s more, all of the bookings are arranged by First Light Travel, so instead of having to contact each individual accommodation and operator should your travel plans change, any amendments can be done through your FLT agent – easy! Did we mention the service is at no extra cost to you?!

For more information on planning your own New Zealand itinerary, see How to Create the Perfect New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary. Or better yet, jump on firstlighttravel.com and start making your own itinerary there.

More About a New Zealand Luxury Itinerary for 1 Month / 4 Weeks / 30 Days

That’s the end of our New Zealand luxury itinerary for 30 days. If this itinerary didn’t take you fancy, see our alternative 30-day itineraries:

Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Luxury Travel Guide to New Zealand.

Author

Laura S.

This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor in chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in New Zealand over 10 years ago and with a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to travel New Zealand. She knows Aotearoa inside-out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience New Zealand’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also editor of several other South Pacific travel guides and is the co-host of NZ Pocket Guide’s live New Zealand travel Q&As on YouTube.

Contact Laura via our contact page