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  3. Queenstown (NZ), Te Anau and Auckland

pretty much everything we did was a highlight of our trip
New Zealand | Dec 22 - Jan 3, 2026

Jim
Jim C.
Waltham, MA | Reviewed on Jan 07, 2026

Michelle and her team planned and executed perhaps our best family vacation. After hearing about our itinerary, more than one local family questioned how we knew to do all the cool things we were doing on our trip! To list our favorite activities over two weeks is to list every activity Michelle lined up for us. Biggest wow factor was the night in Milford Sound, the heli-hike and the Timber trail. Fly fishing was spectacular, wineries were lovely - and we were even surprised how much we valued just a short visit to Great Barrier Island. (local guides on the Mt Luxmore hike, GBI and fishing were top notch) Even the driving was a highlight (and Michelle delivering the rental car to our hotel was an appreciated detail). all our accommodations were just as expected with the exception of our last night which surprised us with is beauty and tranquility - the perfect way to exhale and reflect with the family on what felt like several epic vacations over just two weeks.

Hotel Reviews
The Rees Hotel
Queenstown

really solid hotel. beautiful placement on the lake - ~halfway between airport and town. We did the chef's tasting menu there at the restaurant and absolutely loved it.

Authenticity & Character
really nice and a solid vibe
Location
away from town, great location on the lake - and we walked in and out of Queenstown along the lake a couple times
Staff
seemed great.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Fiordland Jewel
Milford Sound

LOVED This experience. seemed like such a great way to truly experience the Sound vs. just see it. Boat was great and crew was amazing.

Authenticity & Character
Location
can you get more beautiful that having all of Milford Sound to yourself?
Staff
the Skipper and team were amazing! so engaging and friendly. they each went out of their way to make our stay feel really special - on Xmas non the less.
Cleanliness & Comfort
surprisingly nice and comfortable for a boat. (food was great too)
Timber Trail Lodge
Ongarue

as anticipated fairly basic off the grid lodge - super clean, great staff, good food.

Authenticity & Character
Five for Authenticity
Location
Staff
warm and welcoming
Cleanliness & Comfort
exceeded expectations for an off the grid lodge
M Social
Auckland

location in Auckland was super convenient. its a little beat up tho.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
nothing horrible, just a lot of touch up paint needed and some walls needing cleaning.
Te Karaka Lodge
Waikato

this lodge exceeded expectations in terms of its beauty, it comfort, luxury and tranquility.

Authenticity & Character
Location
both a 4 and 5 star. its in the middle of no where which makes it so special
Staff
The manager was lovely - and we spend extended time chatting with the chefs too.
Cleanliness & Comfort
it's beautiful and well taken care of. not pretentious at all. very welcoming.
Local specialist: Michelle Srzich
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