Creativity arises from two distinct traditions: those of the indigenous Maori and Fijian people, and the mainly British immigrants who arrived after 1840. In recent years interaction between these cultures within New Zealand and Fiji has resulted in some distinctive art.
DAY ONE
Arrive into Auckland, New Zealand.
Stay at Cotter House, an exquisitely restored boutique lodge highlighting its 18th century Regency architecture.
DAY TWO
Explore Auckland’s vibrant art scene.
Cotter House will personally introduce you to leading galleries that specialise in New Zealand art within Auckland. Alternatively stay on Waiheke Island at The Boatshed and experience their walking tour ‘Island of Design’ taking in world acclaimed sculpture, architecture and local artist galleries.
DAY THREE
Fly from Auckland to the Bay of Islands.
Stay at the Bay of Islands Lodge, a custom-designed all wood constructed ‘tree house’ lodge. Its design is contemporary and materials are natural and earthy, featuring native and imported timbers.
DAY FOUR
Discover locally crafted products.
Take the Art and Craft trail from Kerikeri, 30 minutes north of the Bay of Islands Lodge. Choose from 17 arts and craft stores, and delight the senses with the functional, the wearable and the decorative.
DAY FIVE
Fly from the Bay of Islands to Wellington.
Stay at Bolton Hotel where each room is visually rich with New Zealand inspired artwork throughout the hotel. A ‘must see’ is Te Papa New Zealand’s National Museum where you can explore the nations distinctive art, history and heritage. Explore New Zealand’s nation’s distinctive art, history, and heritage.
DAY SIX
Fly from Wellington to Christchurch.
Stay at Elm Tree House.
DAY SEVEN
Explore Christchurch’s Gothic architecture.
Elm Tree House, a Historic Places Trust colonial home, is a perfect base for those who want to explore this most English of New Zealand cities. From the 1850s, architecture flourished under Benjamin Mountfort with his magnificent Gothic Revival buildings which have given this city its distinctive architectural flavour.
DAY EIGHT
Fly to Queenstown.
Stay two nights at Matakauri Lodge.
DAY NINE
Explore historic heritage of a golden era.
Matakauri Lodge is located near Queenstown, an area of historical significance of the 1860s, New Zealand’s gold rush era. View the plethora of buildings from this era, made of local stone. Visit the gold mining ghost town Bendigo, or the haunted hotel in St Bathans. Visit the studios and galleries of some of New Zealand’s most famous contemporary artists.
DAY TEN
Depart New Zealand for Fiji.
