Black Opal Travel Group Don't follow the crowd.


New Zealand vs England – Test Series

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Always a bucket-list destination to visit, combine the unrivalled beauty of New Zealand with following England’s cricketers on their tour, watching the 'Black Caps' take us on in this Test Series.

Our team will be able to curate an exciting itinerary, taking in the three Test Matches. Whether you are looking to discover the North and South islands and their treasures in depth, wish to include exciting stopovers en route, such as Dubai, or want to embark on a round the world journey, register your interest here, with your plans. We can’t wait to hear from you!

We are so pleased to announce the dates for the England Cricket tour to New Zealand have now been released. The fixtures are as follows: 

1st Test Match – Thurs 28th Nov – Mon 2nd Dec      Hagley Oval, Christchurch

2nd Test Match – Fri 6th – Tues 10th Dec                 Cello Basin Reserve, Wellington

3rd Test Match – Sat 14th – Wed 18th Dec               Seddon Park, Hamilton

Should you require a shortened duration we can offer the option to attend the First Test and Second Test - prices from £9,395 per person based on double occupancy accommodation. 

Or if you wish to do any part of the tour then please speak to a member of the Black Opal Team and we will be delighted to assist. 

Follow England’s cricketers as they take on New Zealand, and explore the length of this stunning country in the process, with Black Opal.

Always a desirable destination for any keen traveller, New Zealand is a diverse and picturesque country. On this Black Opal cricket tour, you can combine natural beauty and sporting excitement. Whether you join us for the full itinerary, or you’d like to dip in for one of two Tests, our experts can tailor the experience to suit your needs and preferences.

Should you require a shortened duration we can offer the option to attend the First Test and Second Test - prices from £9,395 per person based on double occupancy accommodation. 

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Travel from London Heathrow to Christchurch, New Zealand. 

If you wish to break the journey we are offering a hosted two night stay in Singapore enroute for a supplement of £840 per person double occupancy. The Black Opal Team will be happy to prepare a full quotation for you. 

Should you wish to fly from a location more convenient to or upgrade your flights, a member of the Black Opal team will be able to assist you with that during your booking.

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We begin our New Zealand cricket tour in Christchurch where you will have an opportunity to enjoy the city before the start of the First Test Match.

Here you’ll spend eight nights at The Mayfair Hotel, where you can expect sleek elegance and refined comfort. Nestled in the heart of the city, this well-located hotel offers sophisticated accommodations and impeccable service.

Upon arrival in the city, you’ll be treated to a Welcome Drinks event, where you can mix with hosts and fellow travellers. We will also head to Akaroa Harbour, a prime location for seeing Hector's dolphins, white flippered penguins and New Zealand fur seals as we cruise through the coastal waters.

Accommodation: The Mayfair Christchurch

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The First Test Match takes place at Hagley Oval, where we will secure excellent seats and hospitality options for our Black Opal guests. In the evenings, digest all the day’s action over dinner and enjoy exclusive events such as STUMPS, where we invite former cricketers to talk directly to you and give their takes of all the happenings.

On the last day of the Test, you’ll also be treated to our 'Digest the Test' dinner before embarking on the next stage of your journey. 

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Today we will take a short flight to The North Island and travel to the colonial town of Martinborough where we will spend the next two nights enjoying all this area has to offer. 

Enjoy our private Pinot to Palliser tour, as we drive through the picturesque countryside to the south east coast of the North Island. We drive through the unique fishing village of Ngawi, past seal colonies to the iconic Palliser Bay Lighthouse. Stopping for lunch at the Lake Ferry Hotel, and once back to Martinborough, we visit an award winning vineyard for an end of day wine tasting.

Accommodation: The Martinborough Hotel

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A leisurely drive will bring us to the nation’s capital, Wellington. Here you’ll be welcomed with a drinks reception before settling in for six nights at the Intercontinental Wellington.

Accommodation: InterContinental Wellington

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From 6th December, Watch the Second Test unfold at the iconic Cello Basin Reserve, where our Black Opal guests enjoy privileged seating and premium hospitality. Evenings are at leisure, and we will be offering by exclusive events like Stumps here too, featuring candid conversations with cricketing luminaries.

When you’re not enjoying  the action of the Second Test at the Cello Basin Reserve, you’ll find the Intercontinental Wellington offers luxury accommodation, excellent service and premium location he heart of the city.

As the Second Test culminates on 8th December, a 'Digest the Test' dinner awaits.

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Nestled between rolling hills and the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean, Napier is our next stop. Offering art deco landmarks, boutique galleries and pristine beaches, you’ll find this is a delightful coastal retreat for two nights. Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of Napier's coastal beauty, strolling along its pristine beaches or savouring gourmet delights at seaside cafes.

Here we will also offer an optional wine tasting experience for the epicureans amongst you.

Also, watch champion seabirds soar, swoop, dance and dive right before your eyes into the blue ocean, our tour takes you overland to Cape Kidnappers and within meters of the magnificent Gannets.

Accommodation: Porters Boutique Hotel

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Experience the thrill of international cricket at the iconic Seddon Park in Hamilton, as England take on New Zealand in the Third Test from 13th to 19th December.

Staying at Novotel Tainui Hamilton, you can unwind in luxurious comfort after a day of action and indulge in the hotel's impeccable amenities.

Throughout the five days of Test cricket, our Black Opal guests can of course expect privileged seating and premium hospitality at Seddon Park. Explore the city in the evening, sampling some of the many excellent eateries, but don’t forget to join us for Stumps!

As the Third Test concludes on 19th December, we bid farewell to Hamilton with another exclusive 'Digest the Test' dinner.

Accommodation: Novotel Hamilton Tainui

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Out last stop on this New Zealand sports holiday is in the nation’s most populous city, Auckland. Staying in luxury and comfort at the Park Hyatt Auckland, you’ll be able to perfectly placed to enjoy the bustle of the city.

On day two of your stay here join your Black Opal hosts on an excursion to Waiheke Island and enjoy a wine tasting in the stunning surrounds.

Accommodation: Park Hyatt Auckland

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It’s home time!

Today, you’ll transfer to Auckland Airport for departure to London Heathrow. Of course, if you’d like to break up the jetlag with a stop on the way, or upgrade your flights for the ultimate comfort, our team can take care of every detail!


Our hand-picked luxury accommodation

At Black Opal, we know our clients want the very best accommodation to accompany their luxury sports travel experience. That’s why we endeavour to secure the very best accommodation available within convenient proximity to your chosen event. Our recommendations are below, but should you wish to stay elsewhere simply give us a call on 0330 041 4888 or contact us online.