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New Zealand is also known as Aotearoa – which translates to “land of the long white cloud” (in the Maori language of the indigenous people). This name perfectly captures the beauty of the country and the pride of its people.
Understanding the pristine and enchanting values of New Zealand, Bentley will be organizing a unique experience trip in 2023, from October 16th to 21st, for a select group of exceptional clients who have achieved countless remarkable accomplishments after challenging yet highly successful years in their careers. A specially designed journey, tranquil enough to immerse oneself in nature, majestic enough to appreciate the vast universe, and comfortable enough for peace of mind, body, and spirit.
New Zealand is also known as Aotearoa – which translates to "land of the long white cloud band".
Six magical days. Five unforgettable nights. An extraordinary journey characteristic of Bentley. Embark on a holistic experience of heritage, culture, and wellness even while on the road in the land of white clouds. Traverse rugged mountains and fascinating glaciers to reach golden sandy beaches stretching along secluded, unspoiled bays.
Day 1
Upon landing at Christchurch Airport, the Bentley Events team will greet you, welcome you, and then, with a private driver, will take you to the luxurious and historic Otahuna Lodge for an overnight stay.
Here, admire the magnificent Queen Anne-era architecture dating back to the 19th century. After checking in and receiving your room, a private guide along with a member of the Otahuna Lodge gardening team will introduce you to and guide you through the 115-year-old, 30-acre nature reserve, including the Dutch Garden, the expansive Great Lawn, and the Woodland Forest. Learn about the resort's long history and the processes involved in maintaining and preserving the gardens – you might even catch a glimpse of the chefs strolling the grounds and preparing ingredients for the evening menu. As night falls, join Otahuna's head chef for a cooking demonstration and learn about the renowned culinary and wine philosophies while enjoying unique, creative dishes made with the freshest New Zealand produce or organically grown seasonal ingredients from the kitchen's own garden.
The luxurious accommodations of the historic Otahuna Lodge resort.
As darkness falls, join Otahuna's head chef for a cooking demonstration and learn about the region's renowned culinary and wine philosophies.
Day 2
The journey south to the Ahuriri Valley begins on a convoy of exclusive Bentley vehicles, specially selected models that you will have the opportunity to drive and experience one by one. Enjoy scenic drives across the plains and towards the mountains, crossing the vast Canterbury Plateau, New Zealand's largest agricultural region.
The trip will take you to Mackenzie Country, where you can admire the majestic Southern Alps with their towering cliffs and the turquoise Lake Tekapo. Here, you can choose to take a short detour to the Good Shepherd Church – a historic landmark by the lake – for panoramic views of the magnificent mountains. Afterwards, you'll drive to The Lindis Lodge, your luxurious two-day retreat. That night, head out under the starry sky, searching for unique celestial objects and dreaming of the vast cosmic landscape from a magical stargazing experience in the heart of the South Island. Your guide will even teach you some basic photography techniques on how you can capture your own stargazing photos on a truly memorable night.
That night, head out as darkness falls and the sky is clear and full of stars, searching for unique celestial objects and dreaming of the vast cosmic landscape from a magical stargazing experience in the heart of the South Island.
Day 3
On day 3, you'll drive along a custom-designed itinerary. Wake up and get active with morning yoga at an inspiring location in the Ahuriri Valley. Then, you'll choose activities to enjoy throughout the day. This is your chance to study the area's unique flora and fauna with an eco-guide or explore the winding villages on horseback or mountain biking. Or embark on a scenic hiking trip to discover 49,000 hectares of wetlands, forests, scrublands, and surrounding mountain villages; or choose to relax at the spa. Whichever route you choose, be sure to spend a special day in the Ahuriri Valley.
No matter which route you choose, be sure to spend a special day in the Ahuriri Valley.
Day 4
On Wednesday morning, drive along the scenic Lindis Pass and the Crown Range (New Zealand's highest road) to the riverfront. Then, meet up with your fellow travelers for a relaxing platter lunch, prepared with eco-friendly ingredients sourced in and around the four coasts of the South Island. After refueling, continue your journey to Glenorchy and check in at Blanket Bay, one of the world's most beautiful mountain resorts overlooking the stunning Lake Wakatipu and the Humboldt Mountains.
Drive along the scenic Lindis Pass and the Crown Range (New Zealand's highest road) to the riverbank.
Day 5
On Thursday morning, a private helicopter will pick you up and fly west over the highest peaks of Queenstown toward the "boundary" of the Southern Alps and the World Heritage-listed Fiordland National Park.
This exclusive excursion to Milford Sound, the 8th natural wonder of the world, will include four landing points, each different, diverse, and pristine, where you can sip the pure waters of a high-altitude lake; visit the majestic Milford Sound, considered a jewel of New Zealand; and stroll along the unspoiled yet stunning beaches of the West Coast – where you'll encounter a local diver catching live crayfish for lunch.
A private helicopter will pick you up and fly west over the highest peaks of Queenstown toward the 'boundary' of the Southern Alps and the World Heritage-listed Fiordland National Park.
Take your time to explore and photograph this magical location. At each landing site, the helicopter will shut down its engines so you can enjoy the tranquil sounds of the mountains and forests. Perhaps Kea, New Zealand's curious native parrot, will stop by to say hello – no two excursions are alike.
The final landing point will take you to a historic gold miners' whiskey bar, accessible only by helicopter. Here, you can relive the gold rush of the 1860s and enjoy outdoor Highland cuisine prepared by a private chef – including South Island specialties like lamb and whitefish served with canapés. You can also choose to try archery, clay target practice, and knife throwing. End day 5 with a glass of wine while awaiting dinner, reminiscing about memorable moments after visiting the natural wonders and enjoying a delicious meal at the Blanket Bay resort.
Take the time to explore and photograph this magical place.
Friday
On your final morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast, relax with your new friends, and take one last look at the serene scenery of the cloud-covered land. Take time to reflect on the unique experiences and lifelong memories you've cherished throughout this journey. Your private driver will drop you off at Queenstown Airport before your flight home.
Take time to reflect on the unique experiences and lifelong memories you've enjoyed throughout this journey.
Mr. Phan Manh Ha, Director of Bentley Ho Chi Minh, said: "We want to share with our customers and fans of the Bentley brand an extraordinary journey of discovery, offering access to private, upscale, and exclusive experiences that only Bentley can provide. Bentley has collaborated closely with like-minded partners globally, who share a passion for sustainable luxury across the fields of gastronomy, design, architecture, and healthcare. This, combined with the experience of driving the latest Bentley vehicles, will offer a unique, once-in-a-lifetime journey, providing an opportunity to connect with like-minded souls – an experience that money alone cannot buy."
