This escape is designed for the discerning guest who desires a luxury escape with all the finer details taken care of. Experience the beauty of Waiheke Island and its awe inspiring scenery, world class wineries and cuisine and fine New Zealand hospitality. Just a stone’s throw from Auckland City, this 3 day escape is perfect for those short on time and looking for that extra special experience. Highlights in this luxury experience include 2 nights at the exclusive Marino Lodge with its top class hospitality and breathtaking views, helicopter transfers to and from Waiheke Island, an exclusive private wine tour visiting some of the top cellar doors on the Island and other special perks exclusive to The Road Trip. Welcome to the Road Trip, where your journey begins!

Day 1 – Transfer from Auckland to Waiheke Island

Upon arrival into Auckland City (Or directly from Auckland Airport if you prefer), you will be met by helicopter and transferred over to one of New Zealand’s spectacular gems – Waiheke Island. Enjoy a complimentary bottle of Mumm Champagne before arriving at your luxury accommodation for the next 2 nights and take the opportunity to admire the breathtaking surroundings of the incredible Marino Ridge from your private outside verandah. Perhaps take a coastal walk to stretch the legs or relax in the lodge’s hot spa. After enjoying a delicious pre-dinner drink and some nibbles you will be transported to Mud Brick Winery where you will enjoy a delectable 7 course degustation menu with wine pairing.

Day 2 – Waiheke Island Private Wine Tour

This morning after a scrumptious breakfast at your accommodation at leisure, you will be collected by your private driver at a time of your choosing to enjoy a tour of three of Waiheke Island’s top cellar doors, including exclusive tastings as well as enjoying lunch at a venue of your choice. Some of these wineries could include:

Cable Bay

This establishment produces premium hand crafted wines reflective of the terroir of their estate-owned vineyards located on Waiheke Island and in Marlborough – two of the most distinctive and desirable wine growing regions in New Zealand. The estate is situated on the stunning west coast of Waiheke Island and includes vineyards, the winery, olive groves, organic gardens, two restaurants, private event spaces, a cellar door and an expansive outdoor lawn area with spectacular views.

Casita Miro

Casita Miro specialises in the cuisine of Spain and the wider Mediterranean Rim and take enormous pleasure in sharing their love for fine food, wine and sherry. Casita Miro is all about shared dining and their ‘tapas’ and ‘raciones’ (large plates) are perfect for a fun, relaxed and social dining experience.

Stonyridge

Stonyridge was referred to as “One of the Top Ten Must Visit Wineries in the World” by Guardian UK and most recently topped the list for the best Cabernet Merlot in The Age/Sydney Morning Herald Good Wine Guide 2013. The Stonyridge Larose 2010 scored 97 points to make it the highest equal scoring red wine in 2013 and finished ahead of all of Australia’s most iconic Cabernet Merlots! Stonyridge Larose is the favourite of the former NZ Prime Minister, Sir John Key and has been enjoyed by King Juan Carlos of Spain and Queen Elizabeth II, the Russian President, the Prime Minister of Australia, and the Prime Minister of Great Britain, and has sold at some of the world’s best restaurants including Ducasse at the Dorchester in London and Viridiana in Madrid. Located on a gently North-Facing Valley 1km from Onetangi Beach, this is a must visit.

We can discuss your top 3 cellar doors prior to booking and arrange with our provider to ensure you have the choices on your bucket list otherwise we can pick and choose some of our ‘must experience’ cellar doors.

Tonight after a fantastic day indulging in wine and food on the Island, return to the lodge and enjoy further pre-dinner drinks and canapés. Tonight you have the choice of dinner venue which we can book and arrange in advance if you prefer.

Spend a further night at the lodge taking in the incredible sights and sounds of the surrounding nature.

Day 3 – Waiheke Island to Auckland

This morning after enjoying another scrumptious breakfast at the lodge, you will be transported to Auckland via helicopter (your choice of the city or airport) and onto your onward travel arrangements. We trust that you enjoyed your exclusive experience with us.

 

Your Exclusive Getaway Includes:

*2 nights accommodation accommodation in a private suite at the 5 star Marino Ridge

* Pre-dinner wines and nibbles each evening
* Transfers to selected dinner location in local area (dinner and return costs your care)
* Use of Marino Ridge’s services and facilities, including heated jacuzzi and 16m pool, indoor and outdoor lounges, library and exercise room, on site spa and helipad, plus dramatic coast walks and swimming off our beach, of course…
*Fresh gourmet breakfasts, changing daily

* Private wine tour of Waiheke Island including premium wine tasting of your choice of 3 cellar doors

* 7 course degustation Menu and Wine pairing at Mud Brick Winery

* Return private helicopter transfers from your choice of Auckland City to Waiheke or Auckland Airport to Waiheke (OR Ferry if taking this option) 

*Complimentary bottle of Mumm Champagne upon arrival at heli-base or at Marino Ridge if taking ferry

*A Travel Guide Compiled by The Road Trip Including Our Top Tips for What to See and Do in the Region

By Ferry:

$2,999 NZD for 2 with return ferry from Auckland City – Until 30th November 2020 ($3,399 NZD for 2 from 1st December 2020 onwards)

By Helicopter:

$5,899 NZD for 2 with return private charter transfers ex Auckland City ($6,299 NZD for 2 from 1st December 2020 onwards)

$6,469 NZD for 2 with return private charter transfers ex Auckland Airport ($6,869 NZD for 2 from 1st December 2020 onwards)

$4,598 NZD per couple based on 4 pax with return private charter transfers ex Auckland City ($4,998 per couple from 1st December 2020 onwards)

$4,909 NZD per couple based on 4 pax with return private charter transfers ex Auckland Airport ($5,309 per couple from 1st December 2020 onwards)

 

Terms and Conditions for all Luxury Getaways can be found at the bottom of the following page

“I can assure you that we’ll be recommending The Road Trip in the highest regard. All our very best wishes.”

Don Brunner – USA, October 2019