Tour Details - Northern Experience Wellington to Auckland

Day 1: Arrive Wellington

On arrival in Wellington you will be transferred to your hotel. This afternoon explore Wellington on a sightseeing tour including views from Mount Victoria and free time at Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. Te Papa allows you to experience the warmth and vibrancy of Maori culture. See the magnificent contemporary Marae (meeting house) and explore interactive displays depicting modern New Zealand and pre European history. Tonight enjoy a welcome drink with your Tour Director.
Hotel: Novotel, Wellington. D

Day 2: Rotorua

Today travel to Taupo and see the thundering Huka Falls before continuing to Rotorua. Tonight enjoy a special evening of entertainment featuring The Realm of Tãne, an extraordinary journey through Maori culture, mythology and our story of creation, which is followed a Maori concert and Hangi feast including traditional dances, music and entertainment.
Hotel: Millennium Hotel, Rotorua, 2 nights. B HD

Day 3: Rotorua ‘Free Time’

Our day begins with a ride on the Skyline Gondola and breakfast with stunning views over Lake Rotorua. We then take an entertaining look at farm life at the Agrodome Sheep Show. Later tour Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve where a local Maori guide escorts us past pools of boiling mud and geysers. We also view kiwis here. This afternoon there is free time for you to relax, explore or join an optional tour (see your Tour Director for details). B

Day 4: Auckland

Explore the famous Waitomo Caves on a guided tour and a boat trip through the incredible Glow Worm Grotto then journey north to Auckland. Enjoy a city sightseeing tour with views from Mt Eden before arriving at our hotel.
Hotel: Stamford Plaza, Auckland. B D

Day 5: Bay of Islands

Cross the Auckland Harbour Bridge, then take in the amazing scenery of the Hibiscus Coast. Walk amongst the Kauri trees at Parry Kauri Park then journey to the Bay of Islands. This afternoon 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 out for marine life.
Hotel: Copthorne Hotel & Resort, Bay of Islands, 2 nights. B D

Day 6: Bay of Islands ‘Free Time’

Today is free for you to experience the beauty of the Bay of Islands at your own pace - perhaps take a coach trip to Cape Reinga, via idyllic Ninety Mile Beach; enjoy a guided sea-kayaking trip or a day of sailing. Tonight is at leisure - why not try the delicious cuisine in a local restaurant? B

Day 7: Auckland

Enjoy a visit to the Waitangi Treaty Reserve, which is of great historical importance, as this is where New Zealand's founding document, the Treaty of Waitangi, was signed. You will have time to explore the Reserve and take in highlights such as the magnificent Maori War Canoe and traditional meeting house. This afternoon enjoy the lush farmland scenery as you return to Auckland.
Hotel: Stamford Plaza, Auckland. B

Day 8: Depart Auckland

Your tour concludes today after breakfast. You will be transferred to Auckland Airport for your onward flight. B