New Zealand - The South Island, Christchurch & Queenstown

The South Island is home to some of New Zealand’s most striking landscapes… perfect for outdoor adventures.

Christchurch, the “Garden City,” is also called the “most English city outside England.” The largest city on the South Island, it is filled with beautiful parks and gardens, through which the Avon River runs. Whale-watching, visiting the International Antarctic Centre, punting on the Avon, hot air ballooning, and wine tasting are some highlights of a visit to Christchurch.

Toward the center of the South Island, Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand. Activities include jetboat rides, garden tours, lake cruises, helicopter flights, bungy jumping, golf, skiing, gondola rides, guided walks, fishing, skydiving, wine tasting, and much more. If there’s any outdoor activity you crave, chances are you can find it in Queenstown! By far the most popular activity is the trip to Milford Sound, including a launch cruise on this stunning fiord.

Dunedin, New Zealand’s oldest city, is located on the southern coast. It is home to Edwardian heritage buildings, museums, galleries, and New Zealand’s first university. The nearby Otago Peninsula is a haven for wildlife, including seals, dolphins, albatross, and penguins.

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We Loved Kauai Island Private Home Rental!

Teresa found the most wonderful beach front house for our week in Kauai. She made our trip absolutely perfect and we will use her services again for our next vacation.

Susan, Alison & Michael

Aliomanu Sands

This charming, oceanfront home is located on one of Kauai’s most beautiful beaches. Vaulted ceilings add a spacious feel and the large lanai, accessible from both the great room and the master bedroom, faces the magnificent Pacific Ocean. Step outside for a closer view of nature’s splendor and tropical island breezes will caress you. Relax to the soothing sounds of the sea while you take in this splendid vista.

Step outdoors to a white sand beach and the expansive Pacific Ocean. Lounge on the warm sand, sip a cool beverage and take a leisurely stroll along the water’s edge. Playful dolphins may delight you with their antics and the occasional sailboat in the distance could divert your attention. The tranquil surroundings of this special home invite peaceful moments.

Tempting menus abound at the many retaurants located in neighboring towns. A wide variety of cuisine, including fresh seafood, Italian, Japanese, Pacific Rim, Chinese, Mexican and vegetarian, is offered.

Activities nearby include swimming, snorkeling, fishing, surfing, windsurfing, horseback riding, hiking, shopping, tennis and golf. Non-smoking. 2BR/2BA. Sleeps 4.

If you too would like to rent a private home - at a great price - in Hawaii
Call Me at 1-800-644-6659
Your ‘See the South Pacific Specialist’ at Luxury Hideaways

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The Huka Lodge Helicopter Adventure!

Your helicopter awaits on the front lawn of Huka Lodge. From here you will fly along the eastern edge of Lake Taupo towards the majestic Kaimanawa mountain ranges. As you approach, sit back in awe as the alpine scenery unfolds before you. Once your Pilot has set the aircraft down beside the crystal waters of the Rangatiki River, you may take a short walk to one of the many secluded pools which are home to some of New Zealand’s largest Rainbow trout. This is nature at its best!

Re-board your helicopter for the remainder of the flight, which continues west along the Kaimanawas towards Mt Tongariro, Mt Ngauruhoe and the snow-capped peaks and crater lake of Mt Ruapehu. On a clear day visibility exceeds 50km. Descend from the mountains, head towards the Western Bays of Lake Taupo where your pilot will set the aircraft down on a remote rock shelf where a well-appointed motor launch, a sumptuous lunch and a chilled bottle of New Zealand wine awaits you. En route back to Taupo you will have the opportunity to troll for trout or you may wish to try your hand at clay pigeon shooting or swim in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Taupo. On arrival at the Taupo Boat Harbour, a courtesy vehicle awaits to transfer you back to Huka Lodge. What a day! I’m ready to experience Huka Lodge now! [Read more]

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Huka Lodge - luxury lodging in New Zealand

Huka Lodge is located in Taupo, in the central North Island of New Zealand and is considered to be one of the world’s top retreats in the world.

Huka Lodge is surrounded by magnificent natural beauty. The crystal clear waters of Lake Taupo are fed by mountain streams and are home to some of the most sought-after Rainbow trout in the world. The spectacular and mighty cascades of water forming the Huka Falls are a short walk from Huka Lodge, on the banks of the Waikato River.

How to get there: Huka Helicopter transfers from Auckland, Wellington and Rotorua. Enjoy the scenic wonders of the central North Island and be delivered to the front lawn of Huka Lodge. Auckland to Huka Lodge - 1 hr 15 min, Wellington to Huka Lodge - 1 hr 35 min, and Rotorua to Huka Lodge 25 mins.

Explore the park-like gardens and flower borders or soak in our hot pools. Enjoy a game of tennis on our all weather court. Relax playing a game of petanque. A short walk beyond the gates brings you to the spectacular Huka Falls.

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