Tour Details - Northern Experience Auckland to Wellington

Day 1: Arrive Auckland

After we transfer you from the airport, settle into your hotel, then see Auckland your way – visit the Sky Tower, Viaduct Harbour or explore the Waitemata Harbour by ferry. A welcome drink with your Tour Director and fellow travelling companions ends the day.
Hotel: Stamford Plaza, Auckland. D

Day 2: Auckland – Bay of Islands

Over the Auckland Harbour Bridge and through Orewa and the scenic Hibiscus Coast. Walk amongst the Kauri trees at Parry Kauri Park. We have time to explore Whangarei, the northern-most city in New Zealand then it’s off to Paihia and the beautiful Bay of Islands. Enjoy a cruise through the sensational Bay of Islands to Cape Brett and the famous ‘Hole in the Rock’. We’ll meander through picturesque islands, see sandy beaches, secluded bays and explore Urupukapuka Island on our return to Paihia.
Hotel: Copthorne Hotel & Resort (Water View), Bay of Islands, 2 nights. B D

Day 3: Bay of Islands ‘Free Time’

The day is yours to explore the Bay of Islands. Dolphin watch, catch a ferry to Russell, take a coach ride along the Ninety Mile Beach, sail or sea kayak – whatever takes your fancy. Top off your day with a night on the town. B

Day 4: Bay of Islands – Auckland

We’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). You’ll be inspired by the lush farmland scenery on our way back to Auckland.
Hotel: Stamford Plaza, Auckland. B D

Day 5: Auckland – Rotorua

After an Auckland City Sights Tour, we trace New Zealand’s longest river, the Waikato, to Waitomo Caves. We’ll see the amazing Glow Worm Grotto by boat and walk the limestone caves. On arrival in Rotorua an orientation tour takes in views of Lake Rotorua. Tonight experience The Realm of Ta-ne, including a Maori Hangi feast and concert.
Hotel: Millennium Hotel, Rotorua, 2 nights. B HD

Day 6: Rotorua

Ride the Skyline Gondola for breakfast with stunning views over Lake Rotorua. We then head to the Agrodome Sheep Show for a sample of farm life. Visit Te Puia and be accompanied by a local Maori guide for a tour of the Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve. An afternoon of ‘Free Time’ – relax, explore or take a tour. B

Day 7: Rotorua – Wellington

From the mountains to the sea. View the Huka Falls. Visit Taupo and drive along the shores of its lake. Travel through the alpine scenery of Mt. Ruapehu. Tongariro National Park. Manawatu. The Kapiti Coast. On arrival in Wellington we’ll see the sights of New Zealand’s capital city, with views of the city from Mt. Victoria.
Hotel: Novotel, Wellington. B D

Day 8: Depart Wellington

Time this morning to explore Wellington your way. Then we’ll see Parliament House and visit Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand, with time to discover it yourself. Later we will transfer you to the airport for your onward flight. B