Name: The Best of Both Islands: New Zealand
Start: 2024-02-08T00:00:00.000Z
End: 2024-02-18T00:00:00.000Z
Location: Auckland, New Zealand

Walker Wellness Retreats

14 reviews

Feb 8 - 18, 2024

Group size: 8 - 12

The Best of Both Islands: New Zealand

Auckland, New Zealand

Select

Ask A Question

Walker Wellness Retreats

14 reviews

$NaN

Feb 8 - 18, 2024

Group size: 8 - 12

On this 11-day, all-inclusive adventure to New Zealand, you will enjoy the best of both islands. This luxury vacation will include highly rated hotels, activities, local guides, transportation throughout, all meals, daily excursions, and more! There is something for everyone!

Amy Walker, MSW, LCSW, CCM, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Owner of Walker Wellness Retreats. Amy started Walker Wellness Retreats in 2016 due to her love for travel and helping others experience the world. When Amy is not leading international retreats, she works as an online mental health therapist. Amy is passionate about helping individuals and couples work through barriers and find new ways to communicate, connect, and thrive. In addition, Amy loves international travel, wine tasting, whale watching, and the outdoors. Amy works alongside her husband, Brian Walker, to run Walker Wellness Retreats.

To meet more of the Walker Wellness Retreats team, visit the About Us page on our website.

Questions about refunds or cancellations? Click here to view our payment and cancellation policy.

The deadline to book an international retreat is 30 days before the retreat begins; however, some exceptions can be made based on availability. Email us at contact@walkerwellnessretreats.com to inquire about booking after the deadline has passed.

Accommodations
11 days/10 nights in highly-rated accommodations
Airport Transfers
Pick-up at Auckland Airport (AKL) and drop-off at Queenstown Airport (ZQN)
Meals
All meals during the retreat (breakfast, lunch, & dinner)
Domestic Airfare
Economy airfare from Auckland to Queenstown
Private Driver/Guide
Private driver/guide and transport
Transportation
All transportation during the retreat
Gratuity
Gratuities for tour guides, restaurant staff, and drivers
BBQ Cruise
TSS Earnslaw cruise to Walter Peak including gourmet BBQ dinner and a farm tour
Footwhistle Glowworm
Footwhistle Glowworm Cave Tour
Hiking Excursion
The famous Routeburn Track
Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
Hobbiton Movie Set tour from Shires Rest
Wine tasting
Wine tasting excursion
Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Waimangu Volcanic Valley Walk and Boat Cruise Combo
Cultural Experience
Te Pā Tū hangi & Māori cultural experience
Skyline Gondola
Skyline Gondola return trip & dinner
Mou Waho Excursion
Mou Waho Excursion
Airfare
International Airfare to Auckland and out of Queenstown
Milford Sound Excursion
Milford Sound Drive and Cruise or Flight Experience
Additional Items
Souvenirs, drinks, snacks, additional excursions, or other personal items
Additional Gratuity
Gratuities of a personal nature (hotel staff, spa services, etc.)
Alcoholic Beverages
Any alcoholic beverages (unless listed on itinerary)
COVID-19
Any COVID-19 related tests or documentation (if applicable)
Insurance
Travel insurance and medical insurance (required)
Travel Fees
Any travel-related fees (visas, passports, baggage, etc.)

All-Inclusive Double Occupancy

Available until January 9, 2024|4 left

Double occupancy includes a private bedroom and private bathroom for 2 people.

Helpful hints: If you have two people who would like to share a room, select 2 Double Occupancy packages. If you are traveling alone but want to be paired with another solo traveler, select 1 Double Occupancy package. If you are traveling alone and want your own room, select 1 Single Occupancy package below.

$6,995

Deposit: $1,749

Book Now

All-Inclusive Single Occupancy

Available until January 9, 2024|only 1 left

Single occupancy includes a private bedroom and private bathroom for 1 person.

Helpful hints: If you are traveling alone but want to share a room with another traveler, select 1 Double Occupancy package above. If you are booking for two people who would like to share a room, select 2 Double Occupancy packages above.

$7,995

Deposit: $1,999

Book Now

Day 1
Day 1
Auckland Arrival & Welcome - Thursday, February 8th
Upon arrival at Auckland Airport, a shuttle driver will await you as you clear customs. This driver will be holding a signboard with your name on it and will take you to your accommodation in the city.

Depending on your arrival time, the day is free to spend at your leisure before the retreat officially begins this evening with a group welcome dinner and retreat orientation. Tonight you will dine at Orbit 360, the Skytower's rotating restaurant with spectacular views of Auckland.

Lodging:

QT Auckland

4 Viaduct Harbour Avenue, Westhaven, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Read more
Day 2
Day 2
Auckland Sightseeing (Rangitoto Island Walk) - Friday, February 9th
Today we will take the ferry and enjoy a beautiful hike up Auckland's youngest Island and volcanic crater, Rangitoto. This Iconic Island in the heart of Auckland feels like a world away for the millions who call Auckland home. An easy climb through the pōhutukawa forest and lava fields gives way to panoramic views of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf from the summit of this volcanic island. Return to Auckland in the afternoon.

We'll have some free time after returning to the hotel before a group dinner at 7:00 pm.

Lodging:

QT Auckland

4 Viaduct Harbour Avenue, Westhaven, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Read more
Day 3
Day 3
Waiheke Island Day Trip - Saturday, February 10th
This morning we will ferry out to Waiheke Island to enjoy a guided tour of the Island, stopping at several boutique wineries such as Casita Miro, Kennedy Point Winery, and Stonyridge for wine tastings. We will finish our time at Mudbrick Winery, where we will enjoy a delicious lunch with incredible views out over the Hauraki Gulf towards Auckland City.

We'll return to Auckland in the late afternoon and enjoy dinner at one of the beautiful waterfront restaurants that line the Viaduct Harbour.

Lodging:

QT Auckland

4 Viaduct Harbour Avenue, Westhaven, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Read more
Day 4
Day 4
Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton - Sunday, February 11th
Today we'll depart the 'City of Sails' and head south to Rotorua, a hot spot for Māori culture and geothermal activity. En route, we will visit Hobbiton and The Shire's Rest, the only remaining film set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogies (included activity).

Arrive in Rotorua in the late afternoon and perhaps explore Kuirau Park mud pool reserve and view the stunning government gardens and lakefront. This afternoon/evening, you could experience a relaxing soak in the thermal waters of the famous Polynesian Spa (optional – extra cost).

We'll plan on a group dinner tonight at 7:00 pm at a local restaurant.

Lodging:

Regent of Rotorua

Address: Ground Floor/1191 Pukaki Street, Regent of Rotorua, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand

Phone: +64 7 348 4079
Read more
Day 5
Day 5
Rotorua - Monday, February 12th
Our first stop for the day is Waimangu Volcanic Valley - a Wonderland of Stunning Geothermal Activity. We will visit the world's largest hot spring, sinter terraces, and stunning hot and cold pools of many colors. We'll also enjoy a cruise above the once-famous Pink and White Terraces buried by the eruption of Mt Tarawera in 1886 (included activity).

We will enjoy an authentic cultural experience at Te Pā Tū (formerly Tamaki Māori Village) this evening. In the summertime, Te Pā Tū offers their Summer Harvest Celebration experience, "Tū Te Rā." Tū Te Rā is a summer celebration aligned with the Maramataka – the Māori lunar calendar. This is when the sun expresses optimal energy, the days are longer, and light nourishes the natural world. Tū Te Rā celebrates the abundant harvest of this season and explores concepts, rituals, and stories of ancient Māori warfare and peace in a feast of culture and cuisine.

Lodging:

Regent of Rotorua

Address: Ground Floor/1191 Pukaki Street, Regent of Rotorua, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand

Phone: +64 7 348 4079
Read more
Day 6
Day 6
Waitomo Glow Worm Caves, Fly to Queenstown - Tuesday, February 13th
This morning we will return North to Auckland, stopping en route at the magical Waitomo. This region is New Zealand's most extensive underground caving network. Here we will take a guided tour through the spectacular caves to see the impressive glow-worms that light up the cave roof.

Following this, we will continue to Auckland, departing the North Island and flying south to New Queenstown. Queenstown is a beautiful town on Lake Wakatipu's shores, surrounded by the magnificent Southern Alps.

Dinner tonight will be at 7:00 pm.

Lodging:

Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

9 Peninsula Road, Kawarau Heights, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

+64 3 450 9400
Read more
Day 7
Day 7
Queenstown & Walter Peak - Wednesday, February 14th
This morning we'll enjoy some free time to explore Queenstown at leisure and participate in some fantastic activities this 'Adventure Capital of the World' offers. Options for the adventurous include Skydiving, Bungy Jumping, Jet Boating, Canyon Swings, White Water Rafting, Flyboarding, and Paragliding. If you feel like taking a more relaxed approach to the day, a cruise on the TSS Earnslaw 100-year-old steam ship or a walk through Queenstown's Botanic Gardens are not to be missed. Perhaps drive out to the head of Lake Wakatipu and experience the breathtaking scenery of the Glenorchy area.

In the evening, we'll regroup to enjoy a cruise on the TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak, including a gourmet BBQ dinner and a farm tour at Walter Peak. First, enjoy a quintessential Kiwi experience – a delicious gourmet BBQ buffet meal and a farm demonstration in a stunning lakeside setting. Then, take in the spectacular views of Lake Wakatipu and its surroundings as you cruise across the lake to the historic Walter Peak high country farm aboard the TSS Earnslaw Steamship.

After dinner, watch the farm dogs in action with a sheep-herding demonstration and say hello to the other farm animals. Finally, cruise home under the southern stars and enjoy the fresh night air as the lights of Queenstown draw ever closer.

Lodging:

Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

9 Peninsula Road, Kawarau Heights, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

+64 3 450 9400
Read more
Day 8
Day 8
Routeburn Track Day Walk - Thursday, February 15th
Rated one of the world’s “Top Ten Classic Hikes,” the Routeburn Track is a must-do. This track combines personal achievement and awe-inspiring scenery to make this trip unmissable. We will enjoy a relaxed pace stroll on the half-day walk through the breathtaking forest. Surrounded by rivers, waterfalls, and native birds, you will be transported to a world of peace. In other words, this is the ultimate alpine adventure.

We will dine atop the hill tonight in the exclusive Stratosfare restaurant with breathtaking views over Lake Wakatipu across to The Remarkables.

Lodging:

Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

9 Peninsula Road, Kawarau Heights, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

+64 3 450 9400
Read more
Day 9
Day 9
Wānaka Day Trip - Friday, February 16th
Today is a chance to explore the beautiful lakeside town of Wanaka.

This morning we will visit one of Lake Wanaka's five islands Mou Waho Island is the most remote and beautiful. With its steep rocky coastline, small secluded beaches, diverse birdlife, and a hidden lake (Arethusa pool) which sits atop the island.

Following this, we will enjoy a wine tour with Wanaka Wine Tours. This small group wine tour offers a relaxed and personal introduction to the wines and scenery of the Central Otago region. This tour is a great way to explore award-winning vineyards hidden amongst the rugged landscape of Central Otago. Visit and enjoy tastings at 4 Central Otago vineyards, including a delicious mid-afternoon platter to enjoy with your tastings. We'll also discover the region's history with a visit to Old Cromwell Town, a charming heritage precinct that has been revitalized into a boutique arts and crafts village.

After our wine tasting, we'll plan on a group dinner at a local restaurant at 7:00 pm.

Lodging:

Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

9 Peninsula Road, Kawarau Heights, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

+64 3 450 9400
Read more

Day 1

Auckland Arrival & Welcome - Thursday, February 8th

Upon arrival at Auckland Airport, a shuttle driver will await you as you clear customs. This driver will be holding a signboard with your name on it and will take you to your accommodation in the city.

Depending on your arrival time, the day is free to spend at your leisure before the retreat officially begins this evening with a group welcome dinner and retreat orientation. Tonight you will dine at Orbit 360, the Skytower's rotating restaurant with spectacular views of Auckland.

Lodging:

QT Auckland

4 Viaduct Harbour Avenue, Westhaven, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Walker Wellness Retreats

14 reviews

Welcome to Walker Wellness Retreats! Thank you for taking the time to learn about us! We created Walker Wellness Retreats to share the positive impact travel can have with as many people as possible. Travel makes the world seem not so large. It opens your mind to new ways of thinking. Together we can use our diverse skills and experience of traveling the world to design and plan incredible adventures to bring like-minded travelers together to unique places around the globe!

This trip by far was the best self-care trip. They transported us, fed us fab food and led us on hikes at beautiful Zion Nat’l Park and Bryce Canyon. I probably wouldn’t have ever thought to conquer these hikes on my own and then add in morning and eve yoga adapted for the days activities. I can’t forget the beautiful homes with fab views and the hot tub soaks under the stars. To top it off, I enjoyed it with 11 fab ladies from all over the country who I can now call friends. Add in Drew, Allison And Amy (who I can also call as new found friends) who made sure our week was perfection. I look forward to joining Walker Wellness for future travel.

By Kelly Gordon for Zion National Park Hiking & Yoga Wellness Retreat on Apr 15, 2023

What an amazing experience! Wonderful people who are now new friends, delicious food, and lovely accommodations. I was so impressed with how thoughtful our team was (Drew, Allison, and Amber) to ensure everyone's comfort and enjoyment. The hikes were stunningly beautiful, the yoga was divine, and the food was creative and deliciously nourishing. I will definitely book another trip!

By Deborah Enicke for Zion National Park Hiking & Yoga Wellness Retreat on Apr 03, 2023

This was one of the best things I ever could have signed up for! Daily yoga and hiking is the best combination. Amber, is an amazing chef and every time you walk into the retreat home it smells of something delicious! Drew, is full of Utah knowledge and is so efficient. He was great leading the group on hikes and making sure everyone's needs are met. Allison, is one of the best yoga instructors I've ever had. (I've been practicing yoga for 8 years) she caters class to what folks need and create a really comfortable environment. Allison, Drew, and Amber make a great team and really make sure people are enjoying themselves and all three go above and beyond! I will definitely be signing up for another retreat someday!!

By Anna Brown for Zion National Park Hiking & Yoga Wellness Retreat on Mar 29, 2023

First time traveling alone. Met the most amazing group of people. Drew was an excellent guide, Allison was a great yoga instructor and the food was absolutely amazing and delicious. They really made my stay perfect. The weather was unseasonably cold but the snow topped mountains were absolutely gorgeous.