the coastal collection

Arthur's Pass National Park lies in the centre of the South Island of New Zealand. With its towering mountains, steep gorges, wide braided rivers and breath-taking waterfalls, it is an adventure seeker’s dream. The wide riverbeds and vast beech forests of the eastern side of the park stand in striking contrast to the deeply gorged rivers flowing through the dense rain forest of the west.

Down the middle of 'the great divide' between these distinct areas is an alpine wonderland of snow-covered peaks, glaciers and scree slopes providing a mecca for skiers, snowboarders and mountaineers. Take a scenic train ride through the park and pop into the lovely little village of Arthur’s Pass. This tiny hamlet, often shrouded in a thick cloud of mist, is located within the park and offers accommodation and a few quaint restaurants.

Where mountains meet the sea and wildlife takes over civilisation, Kaikōura is best known for its vast coastline which hugs the Pacific Ocean. Kaikōura is a year-round destination featuring some of the most memorable experiences that New Zealand has to offer including Whale Watching and one of our all-time favourite activities in New Zealand, Swimming with the Dolphins.

Add in a visit to the local seal colonies, watching the incredibly graceful Royal Albatross, a walk around the Kaikōura Peninsular, a visit to the museum and simply taking in sun rising over the Pacific; there’s lots to do here.

The oldest city on New Zealand’s South Island, Nelson, lies on the eastern shore of Tasman Bay. With more than 2500 hours of sunshine a year, it is also considered the country’s sunniest city and is a perfect setting in which to enjoy an array of adventure and leisure activities – biking, horse trekking, rock climbing, wine-tasting at local estates, or simply enjoying the golden beaches and superb views of the Tasman Bay. 

The Bay of Islands is part of New Zealand’s North Island mainland and includes a cluster of 144 subtropical islands which are centred around the main hub of Paihia, Opua and Waitangi, the nation’s birthplace. The area is renowned as an adventure playground for watersports and ocean enthusiasts. Spend time exploring the archipelago by kayak or boat or snorkelling and scuba diving while viewing the mesmerising array of underwater life.

Across the water from Paihia is Russell, the first capital of New Zealand which is surrounded by history. Inland are the towns of Kerikeri, Kawakawa and Kaikohe where there are heaps of natural features, historical sites and great food to experience, not to mention the array of award-winning wineries to indulge in.

There’s more to Auckland than you might think – the region offers access to world-class luxury accommodation, award winning wineries, vibrant culture and unique experiences making it a hot spot for kiwis. The City of Sails sprawls over volcanic hills and around twin harbours, offering an exhilarating mix of natural wonders and urban adventures.

It is the largest Polynesian city in the world, and with over 180 different ethnic groups, Auckland has blossomed into a multi-cultural hub of culture and art making it a bustling, cosmopolitan and vibrant city.

A 40-minute ferry ride from central Auckland, Waiheke Island is a picturesque blend of farmland, forest, beaches and an abundance of award-winning wineries and olive groves that have become an essential for visitors to the island. Waiheke is also home to one of New Zealand’s most important artistic centres – local and international artists have chosen the Island as the base for their studios where visitors can see a mix of sculptures, ceramics and paintings.