In 2018 SYNC Excursions will take six couples on a golf and sightseeing tour of both the North and South Islands of New Zealand. The trip begins with a four night stay in one of the country's most spectacular cities - Queenstown. Here we stay at the fabulous Rees Hotel, located on the shore of Lake Wakatipu and overlooking the Remarkable Mountains. The hotel is within comfortable walking distance to downtown shopping and restaurants.
While in Queenstown, we play golf at Millbrook and Jack's Point, take a day trip via private air charter and cruise to Milford Sound, and test our nerves jetboating through the Shotover River Canyon. Our stay also includes a sumptuous lunch at Amisfield winery - one of the top pinot noir producers in the world and a memorable feast-style dinner prepared by renowned chef Josh Emmett at his restaurant, Rata.
Following our time on the South Island we head north to the capital city of Auckland for two nights at the Hilton. With stunning views of the seaside and harbor, this is one of Auckland's most popular hotels. During our stay, we travel via ferry to the majestic Waiheke Island. Here we are treated to a rare tour and tasting at the internationally acclaimed Destiny Bay winery followed by a fabulous lunch at Casita Miro. After lunch we have time to enjoy the sights and beauty of this trendy island.
Taupo is the next stop on the tour with our stay at the magnificent Kinloch Club Lodge. Set on the tranquil shores of Lake Taupo, the Lodge is certainly one of the scenic hubs of New Zealand’s North Island. While in Taupo we play golf at two world-class golf courses - the Jack Nicklaus designed Kinloch Club and Wairakei Golf & Sanctuary. Wairakei has hosted the New Zealand Open on numerous occasions. Guests will also have an opportunity to experience Lake Taupo aboard a private charter boat.
Our final stop is the art-deco capital of Napier, set along the eastern coast of the North Island. We spend two nights in luxurious private estate homes located in the Hawke's Bay wine region. The highlight of our time on the North Island is a round at one of golf's modern marvels - Cape Kidnappers. Designed by Tom Doak in 2003 this is a course that is a "must play" on every golfer's bucket list. With greens and fairways 400 feet above the Pacific, this is truly one of the world's most awe-inspiring golf courses. The trip wraps up with an intimate meal and select wines prepared specifically for us by our private chef.