If You Seek Itinerary #3

Auckland – Dunedin – Central Otago – Queenstown & Lake Wānaka – Auckland

 

While flying in and out of Auckland, this nine-day itinerary focusses on exploring all that Te Waipounamu (the South Island) has to offer. Spot unique wildlife including the New Zealand fur seal, experience heart-racing thrills shooting down rivers on a jet boat and indulge in delicious food and drink from fresh local produce to a crisp glass of Central Otago pinot noir!

Highlights

 

Lake Dunstan Cycle Trail, Central Otago

An In-Depth Look at Natures Wonders, Dunedin

 

The family-owned and run Natures Wonders offers wildlife tours on the Otago Peninsula. Take an exhilarating ride across a working sheep farm in an all-terrain Argo 8 wheel drive vehicle to view the rare hoiho (yellow eyed penguin), little penguins and New Zealand fur seals – including young pups during breeding season – in their natural environment. 

This Qualmark Silver operator runs self-funded conservation projects including predator control and native tree planting with the aim of preserving the land for future generations. Tours of the sheep shearing shed are also available and meals are served at the on-site, fully licensed café with panoramic coastal views.

Natures Wonders, Otago Penuinsula

An In-Depth Look at WanaHaka Tours, Lake Wānaka

 

With a connection to the land going back to the late 1870s, WanaHaka Tours aims to share the journey, history and stories of the local tangata whenua (people of the land). Learn about Māori customs and traditions with their Māori Whakataū a welcoming experience that includes a wero (challenge), hōngi (pressing of noses) and a haka (ceremonial war dance) specific to the Central Otago region.

This Qualmark Silver operator also offers four tours that combine the Māori Whakataū with wine tasting at several award-winning cellar doors in Cromwell and Lake Wānaka. Transfers, tastings and (for some tours) cheese and grazing platters are all included. WanaHaka’s owners hope that manuhiri (visitors) leave with a better understanding and a greater connection to te ao Māori (the Māori worldview).

WanaHaka Māori Welcome, Lake Wānaka

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