New Zealand Bucket List: Ker & Downey’s Top 10 Things to Do

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Ker & Downey’s New Zealand Bucket List represents the best of “Kiwi Country.” From scenic flights through stunning landscapes and private wine tastings, to snowmobiling on glaciers and fly fishing for trout, this list has something everyone will want to check off.

Seaplane to Connells Bay Waiheke Sculpture Park

Art and nature merge at Connells Bay Waiheke Sculpture Park, an outdoor gallery showcasing the work of New Zealand sculptors. See it by air first as you arrive by seaplane for your guided tour of the “by invitation only” sculpture park..

Golf at Kauri Cliffs and Cape Kidnappers

New Zealand is a true golfer’s paradise, home to some of the most spectacular golf courses in the world. The courses at Kauri Cliffs and Cape Kidnappers are equally stunning with holes played along dramatic cliffs that plunge into the sea, and are challenging for every skill level with multiple sets of tee boxes.

Fly Fishing While Staying in the Owner’s Cottage at Huka Lodge

New Zealand is a mecca for anglers. It has some of the best wild trout fishing in the world with browns and rainbows over five pounds swimming in its streams. It’s all about quality, not quantity here! And after a full day of fly fishing, there’s no better place to kick back than the deck of the Owner’s Cottage at Huka Lodge. It overlooks the Waikato River.

Experience a Working Sheep Farm with a Stay at Wharekauhau Country Estate

Wharekauhau is one of the grandest cattle and sheep farms in New Zealand. Established in the 1840’s, a tour of the 5,000 acre working sheep station is a must-do New Zealand Bucket List item. Explore the rich farming heritage of New Zealand with a tour of the farm, including sheep shearing demonstrations and watching sheep dogs in action.

Sail Through the Marlborough Sounds by Private Yacht

The demand for high-end cruises through the Marlborough Sounds is up and there isn’t a more luxe way to see it than by private yacht, a luxury reflective of its environment for the most discerning travelers. Cruise through 930 miles of scenic coastline in New Zealand’s foremost marine playground for fishing, swimming, diving, and sailing.

Private Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tours in the Abel Tasman Region

There are several boutique wineries in the Nelson Tasman region producing some of New Zealand’s most sought after wines. The region’s aromatic white wines are known particularly for being deep flavored and balanced. With private tastings and tours, you’ll gain an appreciation for this renowned wine region, the elements of the terroir, and meet the wonderful wine creators.

Private Heli to Milford Sound

It’s no wonder why a private heli to Milford Sound, often referred to the 8th wonder of the world, makes our New Zealand Bucket List, and there’s no better way to see the dramatic scenery than from the air. Fly past the head of Lake Wakatipu, through the mountains and valley of the Milford area, and get a fantastic view of Mitre Peak before a glacier landing and a glass of champagne.

Snowmobiling Through the Remarkables

After a 10-15 minute flight across the western face of the Remarkables Mountain Range, over the Hector Mountains and across the Nevis River Valley, you’ll land at the base of the Garvie Mountains to begin a snowmobiling adventure. Zoom through stunning backcountry, then slow down to take in the scenery and snap some amazing photographs.

TranzAlpine Train to Grasmere Lodge

The TranzAlpine train is one of the top 6 train journeys in the world. As your train heads towards the Southern Alps, you’ll see spectacular views of the Canterbury Plains and the gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River from your carriage. The journey ends in Cass where you’re transferred into the heart of the Southern Alps and the peaceful Grasmere Lodge.

Private Heli over Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers

A private heli over the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers takes you into the superb scenery of two of New Zealand’s finest national parks. These two glaciers are unique relics of the last Ice Age as they still flow almost to sea level. Take in the gigantic expanse of the glaciers then top off your journey with a snow landing and a breath of clean alpine air.

For more information about adding New Zealand Bucket List items to your next Ker & Downey journey, contact your Ker & Downey Travel Professional. To stay up to date on all of our online content, follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

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