Auckland - Bay of Islands - Auckland - Coromandel Peninsula - Rotorua - Turangi - Wellington
A 10-day New Zealand Tour North Island itinerary linking the numerous highlights of the North Island including Wellington, Lake Taupo, Rotorua Thermal reserves, the remote and spectacular Coromandel Peninsula and the amazing Bay of Islands.
Day 1. Arrive Auckland
On arrival, be met and transferred to your Auckland hotel. The rest of the day is free to explore.
Stay: Rydges Hotel (1 night).
Day 2. Auckland to Bay of Islands
Cross Cross Auckland's distinctive Harbour Bridge to drive north along the Hibiscus Coast, through Kawakawa to Paihia, where we meet our local Maori Guide, a descendant of the original settlers to the region, who will provide a comprehensive insight and history of the Bay of Islands before a visit to New Zealand's birthplace, Waitangi. A self guided tour through the famous Treaty House, the Maori Meeting House and giant war canoe.
Stay: Hotel Paihia (2 nights)
Day 3. Bay of Islands
A day free for you to relax and enjoy the many optional activities available. Your Coach Captain will happily assist with details. A full day Tour to Cape Reinga, New Zealand's northern most point and Ninety Mile Beach or explore historic Russell, New Zealand's first settlement and visit its original Church, Mission House and Museum.
Day 4. Bay of Islands to Auckland
This morning a launch cruise will take you across the Bay and some of its world acclaimed fishing grounds to Cape Brett and the famous "Hole in the Rock, cruising amongst picturesque islands with pristine sandy beaches and sparkling clear water. Returning to Paihia, board your Coach for the journey south through Whangarei and Warkworth, passing the satellite tracking station. Shortly Auckland city and Harbour come into view with a late afternoon arrival.
Stay: Rydges Hotel (1 night)
Day 5. Auckland to Whangamata
A tour of Auckland, to the summit of Skytower, at 328 metres the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere, the downtown city area and waterfront drive, then experience the thrill of sailing aboard a 12m yacht on Auckland Harbour and visiting the Maritime Museum, all before driving to the Coromandel Peninsula.
Stay: Breakers Motel (2 nights)
Day 6. Coromandel Peninsula
A day of fun and entertainment with Kiwi Dundee Adventures. Explore regenerating Kauri forest and lush fern groves, the old roads to Puketui an 1890's gold mining town and visit a gold mine studded with glowworms. Walk on isolated beaches and if conditions permit, a dip in the springs at Hotwater Beach.
Day 7. Whangamata to Rotorua
On to Rotorua and the Agrodome to see New Zealand's various sheep breeds and a shearing demonstration. Stroll through Rainbow Springs Park to see Rainbow and Brown Trout plus native birds and animals including the Kiwi. Take the spectacular Skyline Skyride for superb views over the city, lake and mountains and try a luge ride with our compliments. This evening enjoy a Maori Hangi (meal), a selection of traditionally prepared meats and vegetables plus more conventional dishes, all followed by a concert featuring Maori songs, chants and the stirring haka (entire group).
Stay: Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua(1 night)
Day 8. Rotorua to Turangi
Visit Te Puia, the Maori Arts and Crafts Centre and Thermal Reserve with its boiling mud, silica terraces and Pohutu Geyser. Skirt some of the worlds largest pine forest to Wairakei where natural steam is harnessed to generate electricity, view the Huka Falls where the Waikato River pours through a narrow chasm and pause at Lake Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand. Skirt its shores to Turangi with time for trout fishing, many picturesque walks or if you are daring, white water rafting.
Stay: Bridge Lodge (1 night).
Day 9. Turangi to Wellington
Leaving your accommodation, head south past the volcanic mountains of Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngauruhoe of Tongariro National Park. Stop for lunch at Mt Bruce, where you can get up close with some of New Zealand's endangered wildlife. Re-board the coach, and travel over the majestic Rimutaka Ranges to Wellington. A city tour includes Mt Victoria, the Houses of Parliament, Wellington Cathedral and Oriental Bay with time to explore the city and Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand, or an optional ride on the famous Cable Car.
Stay: Bay Plaza Hotel (1 night).
Day 10. Depart Wellington
This morning is yours to spend at leisure until your included departure transfer to the airport. (B)
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