New Zealand’s Gardens & Natural Wonders

Begin in Christchurch, known for its English heritage, as well as for being New Zealand’s oldest established city. Tonight, enjoy a Welcome Dinner as you meet your fellow travellers.

Today we journey to the historic 19th-century Ohinetahi garden and homestead, the private home of New Zealand architect Sir Miles Warren. Afterwards, enjoy lunch at Frensham, a relaxed private country garden with a huge variety of plants. On our way back to Christchurch, we stop in at a special private garden, set on more than eight acres. The owners are proud of the garden’s excellent design, planting and maintenance. It even boasts its own Kauri forest.

Traverse the Canterbury Plains today and admire the stunning alpine scenery of rugged mountain peaks. Travel via Ashburton, Timaru and Oamaru to Dunedin, stopping along the way for a visit at the garden of Alan Trott, which is recognised as a Garden of International Significance and has been awarded six stars by the New Zealand Gardens Trust. Stop briefly at Oamaru Public Garden, one of New Zealand’s oldest gardens, which has a five star ‘Garden of Significance’ rating. Later arrive in the city of Dunedin, which features the best collection of Edwardian and Victorian architecture in the Southern Hemisphere.

Visit Dunedin Botanic Gardens, New Zealand’s oldest botanical garden, with more than 6,800 plant species. Travel to the Otago Peninsula, home to an array of wildlife, including the little blue penguin, northern royal albatross and New Zealand fur seals. During our time on the peninsula, we call in on Glenfalloch Woodland Garden, whose rhododendrons and azaleas contrast with its native ferns and indigenous trees. Enjoy a delicious lunch at Larnach Castle, which dates back to 1871 and is set within a magnificent private garden.

Today, look out for spring wildflowers as we make our way to Te Anau, in New Zealand’s Southland region. We visit the garden of Castlemaine, which has a distinctive English influence, while being set within picturesque countryside. Here, we see a variety of hedges, roses and rhododendrons, and two small ponds.

Enjoy nature’s garden at its finest as you explore Mirror Lake, Homer Tunnel and The Chasm, then take a spectacular cruise along Milford Sound. New Zealand’s most stunning natural attraction, Milford Sound comprises dramatic mountain peaks, reflective waters and steep forest-clad cliffs. Later, arrive in the picturesque city of Queenstown, set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.

Take a tour of a spectacular private garden in Queenstown, in the foothills of The Remarkables mountain range. Visit the historic gold mining village of Arrowtown, where you’ll have time to explore the quaint shops along its heritage main street. This afternoon, enjoy free time in Queenstown before reconvening for dinner.

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home.