Tour Details - Northern Discovery-Wellington to Auckland

Day 1: Arrive Wellington

On arrival in Wellington you will be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy a sightseeing tour around Wellington with views from Mt. Victoria. There will be ‘Free Time’ to explore the Parliament buildings and the Beehive, home to New Zealand’s politicians. Visit Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. Tonight enjoy a welcome drink and dinner with your Tour Director and fellow travelling companions.
Hotel: Mercure, Wellington. D

Day 2: Wellington - Rotorua

Travel North past the Kapiti Coast to the rich dairy farming lands of the Manawatu. Enjoy views of the alpine scenery of Mt. Ruapehu and Tongariro National Park. Later travel along the shore of Lake Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand. Stop to view mighty Huka Falls then continue to Rotorua for a sightseeing tour. Enjoy an entertaining evening and gain an insight into traditional Maori culture, including a delicious buffet dinner.
Hotel: Ibis, Rotorua, 2 nights. B HD

Day 3: Rotorua

Visit the Agrodome Sheep Show then the afternoon is yours. You have the opportunity to visit Rainbow Springs or Te Puia where you can join a guided tour of the Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve accompanied by a local Maori guide. Tonight you also have the opportunity to experience a special evening of entertainment presenting The Realm of Tãne, an extraordinary journey through Maori culture, mythology and our story of creation. B

Day 4: Waitomo Caves - Auckland

This morning travel through lush Waikato farmland to Waitomo Caves. See the amazing underground Glow Worm Grotto by boat and walk the limestone caves. Later you follow the Waikato River, New Zealand’s longest river into Auckland. Enjoy views from Mt. Eden before continuing to your hotel.
Hotel: Mercure, Auckland. B D

Day 5: Auckland - Bay of Islands

Over the Auckland Harbour Bridge, through Orewa and the gorgeously scenic Hibiscus Coast. Walk amongst Kauri trees at Parry Kauri Park. There's time to explore Whangarei, the northern-most city in New Zealand then it's off to the beautiful Bay of Islands. Take a scenic cruise through game fishing waters to Cape Brett and, weather permitting, through the famous 'Hole in the Rock' formation. The return cruise to Paihia meanders through picturesque islands - see deserted sandy beaches and secluded bays and keep your eyes peeled for the marine life.
Hotel: Copthorne Hotel & Resort (Garden View), Bay of Islands, 2 nights. B D

Day 6: Bay of Islands 'Free Time'

You have a free day to experience the beauty of the Bay of Islands. Perhaps go dolphin watching, take a coach trip to Cape Reinga, via idyllic 90 Mile Beach or a day of sailing or even a guided seakayaking trip. Ask your Tour Director about optional activities. Tonight is at leisure – why not dine at a local restaurant? B

Day 7: Auckland

This morning you'll visit the historic Waitangi Treaty Reserve, where New Zealand's founding document was signed. You'll have time on your own to take in highlights such as the magnificent Maori War Canoe (Waka) and Marae (Meeting House). This afternoon enjoy the lush farmland scenery as you return to Auckland.
Hotel: Mercure, Auckland. B

Day 8: Depart Auckland

Time at leisure until your Auckland Airport transfer for your onward flight. B