At a Glance
Tee off on the North Island’s best golf courses on this luxury, 11-day self-drive road trip featuring the world-famous Carrington Estate, Kauri Cliffs, Wairakei, Cape Kidnappers and Paraparamu Beach.
New Zealand and golf have a long history. Scottish immigrants introduced the game in the 19th century and their links-style courses still thrive today. These courses are set in incredible locations – the North Island’s landscapes range from dramatic coastlines to rolling vineyards and geothermal wonderlands. This road trip will take you on an unforgettable scenic golfing journey.
Departing from Auckland, hit the road to play the North Island’s best golf courses. Head north to the Karikari Peninsula and Matauri Bay to take on the Carrington Estate and Kauri Cliffs courses, with holes overlooking the Pacific Ocean and played alongside cliffs that plunge ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- 10-nights’ boutique hotel accommodation on a twin share basis
- Meals: 10 x Breakfast, 1 x Dinner
- Auckland airport meet & greet + private hotel transfer
- 18 holes at Carrington Estate golf course including green fees, cart hire and clubs (Day 3)
- 18 holes at Kauri Cliffs golf course including green fees, cart hire and clubs (Day 4)
- 18 holes at Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary golf course including green fees, cart hire and clubs (Day 7)
- 18 holes at Cape Kidnappers golf course including green fees, cart hire and clubs (Day 9)
- 18 holes at Paraparaumu golf course including green fees, cart hire and clubs (Day 11)
- Church Road “Versatility of the Grape” experience including tutored wine tasting (Day 8)
- Waimangu Volcanic Valley self-guided walk including entry to the valley, walk map and bus shuttle service between the visitor centre and lake alongside the walking trails (Day 5)
- 10-days’ full size car rental
Itinerary
Driving Information: N/A Arrive into Auckland Airport, where you will be met by a travel representative and presented with the necessary documentation. Enjoy a private transfer to your CBD accommodation. You’ll stay the night at the Hotel Grand Windsor. Located in the heart of Auckland, this elegant 5-star hotel will transport you to an age of opulent glamour. Its 79 rooms and suites are classic masterpieces of refined design, featuring exquisite bedding, muted fabrics and excellent service complemented with state-of-the-art technology. Spend the rest of the day making the most of 5-star facilities and amenities including a fitness centre and jacuzzi. When you’re ready, head into the city to discover a multi-cultural hub of food, music, arts and culture sprawled over volcanic hills and around twin harbours. |
Driving Information: Auckland to Karikari Peninsula: 332km/206mi | 4.5hrs This morning, make your way to the rental vehicle city deport where you will collect your full size hire car. Departing Auckland, head north to the Karikari Peninsula. Arrive at the Karikari Peninsula, renowned for its amazing white sandy beaches and bays such as popular Maitai Bay. Once covered in kauri forest, this area was scoured by gum diggers who drained Lake Ohia, and the 30,000-year-old kauri stumps, thus exposed, may be seen from a boardwalk. Continue on the scenic drive north, taking in dramatic ocean vistas of New Zealand's northern most peninsula before arriving at Cape Reinga. When you arrive, you'll experience the majesty and history of this unique place; where oceans collide, New Zealand reaches it's northern zenith and spirits return to their ancestral homes. Walk the path to the lighthouse on the edge of NZ – hear the crashing of the two oceans the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean in a spectacular swirl of currents, take time to absorb the atmosphere of this place you can almost feel the power! Check in Carrington Estate, where you’ll stay the next 2 nights, a place where leisure meets nature, where rolling vineyards and farmland flow through pristine fairways down to azure waters, white sands and untouched beaches of the Pacific Ocean. You’ll stay in a comfortable and beautifully appointed Lodge Room, with king-sized bed and private bathroom. Watch the sun go down at the estate’s Karikari Estate Winery, sipping on New Zealand’s finest wines and indulging in dining perfection. |
Driving Information: N/A Today, you will play 18 holes on the renowned Carrington Estate Golf Course. Described as an “inland golf course with an oceanside location”, this par 72 championship, 6417-metre (7267 yard) course is sandwiched between rolling vineyards and the Pacific Ocean. The course is designed to accommodate golfers of all abilities and offers a great variety of hole play with a terrain ranging from rolling vales to challenging water holes. |
Driving Information: Travel south to Kauri Cliffs golf course. One of the most visually spectacular golf courses in the world, this par 72 championship, 6528-metre (7139 yard) course offers 5 sets of tees to challenge every skill level. Fifteen holes view the Pacific Ocean – 6 of these are played alongside cliffs that plunge into the sea. The beautiful inland holes, meanwhile, are scattered through marsh, forest and farmland. After the game, continue south to Matakana. Close to a myriad of stunning east coast beaches, this picturesque region is a foodie's heaven known for its weekend farmer’s market, boutique food shops and spectacular vineyards. If you enjoy homegrown delicacies and award-winning wine, then look no further. You’ll stay the night at Sugarloaf Lodge. Set on the lower slopes of the hill known locally as Sugarloaf, this 4-star bed and breakfast is only 3 minutes from Matakana and 10 minutes from Warkworth. Cosy up in one of 2 wonderfully appointed guest suites and relax on your private deck, overlooking fabulous expansive rural views out to Omaha Beach. |
Driving Information: Matakana to Rotorua: 294km/183mi | 3.5hrs Travel back through the Auckland region and on through farmland, lake land and forest until the distinctive smell of sulphur and constant steam drifts let you know you are in tempestuous, geothermal Rotorua. Explore the raw beauty of the world’s youngest geothermal site on a self-guided, ecology-focused adventure among the craters of the wonderous Waimangu Volcanic Valley. This exciting geothermal attraction has a very unique ecology, with rare botany and plenty of fascinating geothermal features. See the hypnotic steam rising from the Echo Crater, marvel at the fizzling Frying Pan Lake (the world’s largest hot spring) and take in the beauty and dazzling blue of the Inferno Crater hot lake. The newly forming silica terraces are also a highlight. At any stage during your walk, you can jump on board a courtesy shuttle that regularly circles the valley back to the Waimangu Visitor Centre. You’ll stay the night at Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel. Named for the graceful birds that circle Lake Rotorua, this 5-star hotel offers gorgeous monochromatic rooms overlooking either the lake or the manicured English-style gardens. Make the most of facilities including 2 spa pools and an outdoor swimming pool before heading into the onsite restaurant for a sumptuous Pacific fusion dinner. |
Driving Information: Rotorua to Taupo: 80km/50mi | 1hr Spend the morning exploring Rotorua at your leisure. When you’re ready, continue on the lakeside resort town of Taupo. Created nearly 2000 years ago by a volcanic eruption so big it darkened the skies of Europe and China, the beautiful lake Taupo is about the size of Singapore – more of an inland sea, really. Visit the Craters of the Moon and you’ll see evidence of the lake's fiery birth in the geysers, steaming craters and boiling mud pools. At some of Taupo's beaches, swimmers and paddlers can enjoy warm, geothermal water currents. Just north of Taupo you'll find New Zealand's most visited attraction, the magnificent Huka Falls, where more than 220,000 litres of water thunder over the cliff face every second. You’ll stay the next 2 nights at Wairakei Resort. Nestled amid the forested slopes of the Wairakei Thermal Valley, this historic hotel features rooms with views across the Wairakei Tourist Park as well as 2 outdoor swimming pools, 6 open air hot tubs, a 9-hole golf course, a well-equipped gym, and a spa with a full range of treatments. The resort also offers a variety of delicious a la carte dining options ranging from authentic Kiwi afternoon tea to legendary buffets. |
Driving Information: N/A Tee off at Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary. Voted New Zealand’s number 1 golf course, this 18-hole, par 72 course is set in 450 acres of rolling terrain, bubbling with geothermal activity. The course has 3 water hazards and 108 bunkers. Developed to meet the rigorous design standards required for world class competition, the end result is a course that sprawls over the property using the natural contours to the fullest. If one round of golf is not enough, you may also like to venture over to Kinloch golf course (own cost). Designed by Jack Nicklaus, one of the game’s most renowned strategic thinkers, this 18-hole, world championship course pays homage to the great links courses of the British Isles. Pit yourself against the mind of the master as you explore the intriguing holes and championship fairways and challenge yourself on a course that is strongly regarded as one of the Golden Bear’s best. Alternatively, why not take it easy and explore more of Wairakei Resort? The resort is host to a predator-free environment as a creche for kiwi chicks and a retirement home for breeding takahe. The 3 takahe pairs have enjoyed sanctuary life so much there have been 3 takahe chicks in the last few years. A variety of wildlife flourish within the sanctuary, mixed colour pheasants, guinea fowl, pekin ducks, fallow deer and a pair of karearea (NZ Falcon) that have nested and raised their chicks for many years. |
Driving Information: Taupo to Hawke’s Bay: 141km/88mi | 2hr Hit the road for a scenic drive through rugged mountain ranges and exotic pine forests to the fertile vineyards of Hawke’s Bay. At 11:00am, visit Church Road Winery, one of New Zealand’s oldest wineries, for an immersive “Versatility of the Grape” experience. This is your opportunity to discover the passion and innovation of local Hawke’s Bay winemakers. With glass in hand, sample multiple ways that grapes are used for more than just the production of wine. From pressed juice to balsamic vinegar and barrel aged spirits, enjoy an informative behind-the-scenes look at the world of wine and the adaptability of this versatile fruit. The experience concludes with a guided tasting of Church Road wines and a delicious platter lunch. Your afternoon is free to enjoy Napier, a world-renowned Art Deco treasure. Here, you will find many fine wineries, fabulous restaurants, bars and cafes. The boutique shops are a must-visit, as is the Sea Walls collection of magnificent murals painted on more than 50 walls around the city. Grab a map and walk or ride around the city to see them up close. You’ll stay the next 2-nights at Craggy Range. Located at Craggy Range’s Giants Winery in Havelock North, in the heart of New Zealand’s Hawke’s Bay, this boutique accommodation offers luxury lodges and cottages among the vines, under the escarpment of Te Mata Peak. Enjoy a complimentary wine tasting and dinner (own cost) in the award-winning onsite restaurant. Specialties include pan fried local fish, salmon fillet, and pork belly with almond cream, chili lentils and apple. |
Driving Information: N/A Tee off at Cape Kidnappers golf course. Designed by legendary golf architect Tom Doak, the par 71 course measures 6510-metres (7119 yards) and will challenge golfers of all skill levels. The spectacular course has been hailed as one of the great modern marvels in golf. Like Kauri Cliffs, Cape Kidnappers plays above the ocean, atop dramatic cliffs but unlike Kauri Cliffs, where the shape of the land dictates play along the shoreline, this course runs to and from the edge. After your game, it is highly recommended that you stay for lunch (own cost). Cape Kidnappers harvests and abundance of crops from its own extensive vegetable, fruit and herb gardens. Generous access to such premium, fresh produce is one of the strong elements that defines the seasonal nature of the cuisine created by Head Chef, James Honore, and his brigade of chefs. With menus changing on a daily basis everything can be showcased at its very best, when crops have reached their peak of flavour. A delicious 3-course lunch menu is available from 12:00pm to 2:30pm for $120NZD per person. |
Driving Information: Hawke’s Bay to Kapiti Coast: 275km/171mi | 3hrs 40mins Today’s journey takes you from the east coast to the west, with its spectacular sea vistas, glorious sunsets, untouched native forest and dramatic hillscapes. Spend the rest of the day exploring the Kapiti Coast. If you’re feeling energetic, you can take the ferry over to Kapiti Island, one of New Zealand’s most valuable nature reserves. Marvel at the birdlife and what New Zealand must have been like thousands of years ago. Alternatively, enjoy a horse beach ride from Paekakariki or Raumati. Additional cost applies. You’ll stay the night at Greenmantle Estate Boutique Lodge. Nestled in a native palm forest, this award-winning luxury lodge offers 6 stunning suites, each with their own unique feature, as well as a heated pool and hot tub – just perfect for relaxing. |
Driving Information: Kapiti Coast to Wellington: 70km/43mi | 1hr Your adventure culminates with one final round of golf at Paraparaumu golf course. A true Scottish links course, the undulating fairways, fierce rough, fast greens and intimidating bunkers combine with the naturally windy coastal weather to create a truly challenging golfing experience. After your game, take the short journey down the beautiful coastline to Wellington. Named “the coolest little capital in the world” by Lonely Planet, Wellington is a compact city with a powerful mix of culture, history, nature and cuisine. Fuel your visit with strong coffee and world-class craft beer – Wellingtonians are masters of casual dining, with plenty of great restaurants, night markets and food trucks. Your tour ends here with the return of your rental car to Wellington city or airport depot. |
More Info
New Zealand has a largely temperate climate with mild temperatures, moderate rainfall, and abundant sunshine, especially in the far north (Bay of Islands). Because New Zealand lies in the Southern Hemisphere, the average temperature decreases as you travel south. The warmest months are December, January and February, and the coldest June, July and August. In summer, the average maximum temperature ranges between 20 - 30ºC and in winter between 10 - 15ºC.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 60 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 60 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 60 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 60 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.