Explore New Zealand's North & South Islands
Extend your New Zealand adventure with a custom-designed itinerary to explore the most iconic sights of the North and South Islands before or after your hunt. From the dramatic fjords of Milford Sound and the adrenaline capital of Queenstown, to the stunning geothermal heartland and fishing mecca of Taupo, New Zealand offers a diverse landscape of unparalleled beauty.
Our dedicated travel partner, Whitney McGuire of RX Travel Co., is a seasoned traveler who has personally explored the sights & wonders of New Zealand. Her bespoke itineraries are not built from brochures but from firsthand experience, ensuring your customized journey highlights the hidden gems and world-class destinations she knows are truly great.
Non-Hunters' Experience
While your partner is in the field, the Hawke's Bay region offers a wealth of activities right on our doorstep, easily accessible from the lodge. Napier and the surrounding area are famous for their Art Deco architecture, world-class wineries, and stunning scenery. Non-hunting guests are welcome to explore:
- Winery Tours: Sample internationally acclaimed wines at prestigious local vineyards
- Boutique Shopping: Discover unique shops and local crafts in Napier's vibrant city centre.
- Relaxation & Wellness: Indulge in a luxurious spa treatment or massage.
- Scenic Hikes: Explore accessible walking trails offering magnificent vistas of the coast and countryside.
- Cultural Experiences: Visit local museums, art galleries, or historic sites.
The Non-Hunter Daily Rate includes full access to the lodge amenities, all meals, drinks, and the services of a dedicated host to assist with daily arrangements. Crucially, this rate includes transportation. Our staff will happily chauffeure you to and from Napier and the surrounding area daily if you wish to participate in these activities at no extra charge for the transfers or guide themselves. Please note that the cost of activities, such as wine tasting fees, spa treatments, or entry to attractions, are additional.
For a completely bespoke New Zealand adventure, our dedicated travel consultant can organise all domestic and international flights, as well as customised pre-or post-hunt touring packages. This allows you to explore other incredible sights of New Zealand seamlessly.
We also highly encourage non-hunters to accompany their partner on the hunt—it is an incredible opportunity to witness the spectacular environment and the thrill of the chase firsthand. For those accompanying a South Island package, joining the helicopter flight and the expedition into the Southern Alps is a highly recommended, once-in-a-lifetime scenic flight and wilderness experience.
Napier & sightseeing
The city of Napier, a jewel of the Hawke's Bay region and the gateway to Ivory Cliffs Estate, is a destination rich in culture, history, and culinary delights. We highly encourage all international guests to schedule an overnight stay in Napier upon arrival. This strategy acts as a critical buffer against any unexpected travel delays and allows you valuable time to recover from jet lag before embarking on your unforgettable hunting adventure.
Napier is easily accessible, as our lodge is located only a 50-minute chauffeured drive from the city, making it perfectly positioned for both wilderness adventure and urban exploration.
The Hawke's Bay region and Napier itself offer an incredible array of activities for both hunters utilizing their spare time and non-hunting partners:
All of these sightseeing, relaxation, and touring activities can be effortlessly arranged through the lodge's dedicated tour guide, who can suggest and book the region's best wineries, day spas, restaurants, and shopping experiences. We have partnered with Whitney McGuire who owns and operates RX Travel Co. to take care of all your touring & travel needs. Whitney can be reached by email whitney@rxtravelco.com or rxtravelco.com
World-Class Wineries and Cuisine
Hawke's Bay is one of New Zealand's premier wine regions, particularly famous for its Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah.
Art Deco and Culture
Napier is globally famous for its unique architecture. After a devastating earthquake in 1931, the city was rebuilt in the stylish Art Deco architectural style prevalent at the time.
Relaxation and Retail
The surrounding area offers perfect opportunities for relaxation and indulgence.
- Boutique Shopping: Discover unique shops, fashion, and local crafts in Napier's vibrant city centre.
- Day Spas and Wellness: Indulge in luxurious spa treatments and massages, providing a perfect reprieve and moment of self-care.
Havelock North and Local Touring
The charming village of Havelock North, nestled near Napier, is renowned for its boutique shops, excellent cafes, and proximity to scenic spots like Te Mata Peak, which offers panoramic views of the entire Hawke's Bay region. Our dedicated staff can easily organize chauffeured transfers for non-hunting guests to explore this picturesque location for lunch, shopping, or a scenic drive.
By taking an overnight stay in Napier, you not only ensure a relaxed start to your safari but also give yourself the opportunity to fully appreciate the culture and world-class hospitality of the Hawke's Bay region before immersing yourself in the wilderness of Ivory Cliffs Estate
