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7 Day Bay of Islands, Rotorua & Waitomo Independent Coach Tour

Days
7

Pricing From
$2925

North Island
Book Now

Overview

7 Day Bay of Islands, Rotorua & Waitomo New Zealand Independent Coach Tour mapThis 7 day Bay of Islands, Rotorua & Waitomo Independent Coach Tour from Auckland, New Zealand features 2 nights in the sub-tropical Bay of Islands and 2 nights in the geothermal city of Rotorua. Enjoy a cruise to Cape Brett and Hole in the Rock in the Bay of Islands; explore Rotorua’s gems like Te Puia, Mitai Maori Village, and Agrodome. Your tour ends with a side trip to Waitomo Caves on your way back to Auckland.

Accommodation

4 Star Hotels

We have a wide range of 4 star hotel properties. Most hotels in this category generally have swimming pools, fitness gyms, a choice of restaurants, and are usually a little closer to town centres or occupy premium locations. Room types may include standard, deluxe, superior, mountain view, lake view, suites, etc. Many also include 2 and 3 bedroom suites which can offer great value for larger groups.

3 Star Hotels

All our 3 star hotels have restaurant facilities. Meals can be included in your package, if required. Please note that smaller destinations such as Coromandel, Kaikoura, Akaroa, etc. hotels don't usually feature this as an accommodation option.

Motels

Motel accommodations are self-contained facilities. At minimum, a studio unit includes cooking utensils, a hot plate and/or a microwave, toaster, kettle, and crockery and cutlery. Others will include a full kitchen and can include saunas, spas, and swimming pools and sometimes a full breakfast service. Room types include stuido, 2-bedroom, or family units. Our motels are of a very high standard and are generally owned and operated by locals who would love to share their genuine interest in their region with you.

Bay of Islands, Rotorua & Waitomo Independent Coach Tour

Glow worms at Waitomo Caves

Bay of Islands, Rotorua & Waitomo Independent Coach Tour

Te Puia Geothermal Valley, Rotorua

Bay of Islands, Rotorua & Waitomo Independent Coach Tour

Mitai Maori Village, Rotorua

Bay of Islands, Rotorua & Waitomo Independent Coach Tour

Cape Brett and Hole in the Rock Cruise, Bay of Islands

Bay of Islands, Rotorua & Waitomo Independent Coach Tour

Inside a whare (meeting house), Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Bay of Islands

Itinerary

Open All
Day 1Arrive in Auckland

On arrival you will be met by one of our team and driven to your Auckland accommodation.

Welcome to Auckland City
Auckland, New Zealand’s self-proclaimed ‘City of Sails’ is the country’s largest metro area. Resting between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, this urban paradise has something for everyone. Surrounded by native bush, rainforests and an abundance of beaches, Auckland is a playground for both the city savvy and those with an eye for adventure. Explore the central museums and galleries on foot, or take a drive through one of over 800 regional National Parks to see deserted beaches, waterfalls and native forest.

Day 2Auckland to Paihia, Bay of Islands

Auckland to Paihia including Waitangi Treaty Grounds and Russell tour (inc lunch) 
Depart Auckland this morning and travel through spectacular scenery of native forests and sub-tropical bush to the foreshores of the National Maritime Park, arriving at the seaside town of Paihia. On arrival in Paihia, experience a guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where in 1840 the Treaty of Waitangi was signed. Following this, travel by ferry to Russell where you will enjoy a one hour tour by coach. You'll see remarkable views of the Bay of Islands from Flagstaff Hill and learn about the major historical sights of Russell including Pompallier Mission House and Christ's Church. Included in your day tour is a delicious picnic lunch pack.

Day 3Explore the Bay of Islands

Hole in the Rock Cruise
Take a glimpse into New Zealand's earliest European history as your luxury catamaran passes by the township of Russell (Kororareka) and many of the historic and culturally significant islands in the Bay, before heading out into open sea. Enjoy the views as you cruise past the Cape Brett Lighthouse, before arriving at the stunning Motukokako Island, home of the majestic Hole in the Rock. As we venture into the dramatic Hole in the Rock (conditions permitting) hold your breath as the skipper navigates through the narrow space and admire the rock walls which soar above you. Watch out for water drops if you are seated on the top deck! Take in the Grand Cathedral Cave before heading back into the sheltered waters of the Bay. Keep an eye out for bottlenose and common dolphins along the way. Enjoy a visit to one of the most beautiful islands in the Bay. Here you can enjoy one of the many walks or unwind on the white sandy beach.

Explore the Bay of Islands
Commonly known as the ‘winterless north’ New Zealand’s Bay of Islands is made up of over 140 subtropical atolls. Renowned for its untouched beaches, abundant marine life and idyllic climate, this tropical paradise ticks all the boxes. Spend some time on a remote stretch of beach, or cool off during a ‘swim with dolphins’ ocean safari. If diving is your thing, take the morning to descend the Rainbow Warrior - The Greenpeace flagship sunk by French saboteurs in 1985. Wander around Russell, a whaling port founded in 1843. Learn about our culture in historic Waitangi, the site where The Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between the Maori and European settlers dictating the terms by which New Zealand would become a British colony. Take a travel day to Cape Reinga, the very top of the North Island.

Day 4Paihia to Rotorua

Your journey will take you past scenic native forests and sub-tropical bush, before crossing the Auckland Harbour Bridge to arrive into the spectacular city scene of Auckland. Continue south into the rich farmland of the Waikato and onto the cultural heart of the North Island and Rotorua City.

Rotorua Intercity Depot to Rotorua Accommodation
You will be collected from Rotorua Intercity Coach Depot and transferred to your accommodation.

Day 5Explore Rotorua

Rotorua Morning Sights tour and lunch
Experience Te Puia, a place of Maori culture and a thermal wonderland of impressive geysers and boiling mud pools. Explore Rainbow Springs Nature Park, which showcases native flora and fauna as well as the New Zealand Kiwi. Then see NZ's agricultural industry in action with a sheep shearing display and sheep dog trials at the Agrodome.
Next take a trip up the Skyline Gondola and enjoy fantastic views of the city and lake before enjoying a wonderful buffet lunch as you soak in the scenery.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Polynesian Lake Spa
Rotorua's Polynesian Spa offers a unique thermal spa experience on the shore of Lake Rotorua. You'll enjoy tranquil bathing and lake views in four shallow alkaline rock pools, each with different temperatures (36˚C to 42˚C). Here you are surrounded by revitalising native New Zealand flora, natural rocks, the sound of two waterfalls and a grotto. The pools are filled with soothing alkaline mineral water leaving your skin soft and supple. Relax in the outdoor relaxation area overlooking the four hot mineral pools and Lake Rotorua, here you can further unwind on the five geothermally heated recliners set in the stunning backdrop of New Zealand's lush and natural greenery. A large indoor relaxation lounge also overlooks Lake Rotorua, where as a Lake Spa guest, you are welcome to move from the pools to the lounge once dried off and return to bathe in the Lake Spa pools as you wish. The Lake Spa is a unique thermal pool environment, where the atmosphere changes from day to night, and from winter steam to summer sparkle.

Mitai Maori Village
An evening at Mitai will give you an awe-inspiring introduction to the indigenous Maori culture. Marvel at the beautiful bush setting and see warriors in traditional dress who paddle an ancient warrior canoe (waka) down the Wai-o-whiro stream while trout and eels swim beneath the surface. Enjoy a traditionally cooked hangi meal and round your evening off with a spectacular cultural performance that tells the story of the Maori people, their past, carvings, and ta Moko -Tattoo art. Be captivated by the displays of weaponry and combat and be amazed by the spine tingling Haka finale. Truly an experience to remember.

Day 6Rotorua to Waitomo Caves to Auckland

Rotorua to Waitomo Caves including buffet lunch, then to Auckland
Enjoy this tour from Rotorua to Auckland including a guided tour of the fascinating Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Leaving Rotorua in the morning you travel through lush farmland including the intriguing Fitzgerald Glade where the roadside trees arch overhead to form a tunnel of natural greenery. On arrival in the small town of Waitomo enjoy a guided tour through the world famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves with their amazing stalactites, stalagmites and other limestone formations. You finish the tour with a silent boat ride through the Glowworm Grotto - a subterranean cavern lit up by the lights of thousands of tiny glowworms. At the conclusion of the Glowworm Cave tour we take a break at the magnificent Waitomo Caves visitor complex and enjoy a delicious picnic lunch. You continue this afternoon by driving to Auckland, through the beautiful King Country and Waikato regions.

Day 7Depart Auckland

Transfer to Auckland airport
You will be collected from your Auckland hotel and transferred to the airport to meet your departing flight.

PRICE PER PERSON (TWIN SHARE)

  • 3-Star Accommodation: from NZ$2,925*

* PLEASE NOTE

  • Prices are estimates only, and are subject to availability and exchange rates when booking, seasonal or holiday price surcharges (such as Christmas/New Year and Easter); as well as special events that may be on. Please forward a request and we will be happy to forward a quote.
  • Prices quoted are per person and are room only. Prices do not include meals. Twin share is based on 2people traveling together and sharing one rooms. Single room and triple share prices are available.

PAYMENT

  • Deposit: 20% of the package cost or NZ$250 per person (whichever is the greater) at time of booking
  • Full Payment: 60 Days before travel
  • Airfares (if applicable): Paid in full no more than 6 days after booking

CANCELLATION CHARGES

  • Cancellation Fees up to 100% can apply after booking. Extra deposits or full payment may be requested to cover these charges prior to booking

Itinerary

Open All
Day 1Arrive in Auckland

On arrival you will be met by one of our team and driven to your Auckland accommodation.

Welcome to Auckland City
Auckland, New Zealand’s self-proclaimed ‘City of Sails’ is the country’s largest metro area. Resting between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, this urban paradise has something for everyone. Surrounded by native bush, rainforests and an abundance of beaches, Auckland is a playground for both the city savvy and those with an eye for adventure. Explore the central museums and galleries on foot, or take a drive through one of over 800 regional National Parks to see deserted beaches, waterfalls and native forest.

Day 2Auckland to Paihia, Bay of Islands

Auckland to Paihia including Waitangi Treaty Grounds and Russell tour (inc lunch) 
Depart Auckland this morning and travel through spectacular scenery of native forests and sub-tropical bush to the foreshores of the National Maritime Park, arriving at the seaside town of Paihia. On arrival in Paihia, experience a guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where in 1840 the Treaty of Waitangi was signed. Following this, travel by ferry to Russell where you will enjoy a one hour tour by coach. You'll see remarkable views of the Bay of Islands from Flagstaff Hill and learn about the major historical sights of Russell including Pompallier Mission House and Christ's Church. Included in your day tour is a delicious picnic lunch pack.

Day 3Explore the Bay of Islands

Hole in the Rock Cruise
Take a glimpse into New Zealand's earliest European history as your luxury catamaran passes by the township of Russell (Kororareka) and many of the historic and culturally significant islands in the Bay, before heading out into open sea. Enjoy the views as you cruise past the Cape Brett Lighthouse, before arriving at the stunning Motukokako Island, home of the majestic Hole in the Rock. As we venture into the dramatic Hole in the Rock (conditions permitting) hold your breath as the skipper navigates through the narrow space and admire the rock walls which soar above you. Watch out for water drops if you are seated on the top deck! Take in the Grand Cathedral Cave before heading back into the sheltered waters of the Bay. Keep an eye out for bottlenose and common dolphins along the way. Enjoy a visit to one of the most beautiful islands in the Bay. Here you can enjoy one of the many walks or unwind on the white sandy beach.

Explore the Bay of Islands
Commonly known as the ‘winterless north’ New Zealand’s Bay of Islands is made up of over 140 subtropical atolls. Renowned for its untouched beaches, abundant marine life and idyllic climate, this tropical paradise ticks all the boxes. Spend some time on a remote stretch of beach, or cool off during a ‘swim with dolphins’ ocean safari. If diving is your thing, take the morning to descend the Rainbow Warrior - The Greenpeace flagship sunk by French saboteurs in 1985. Wander around Russell, a whaling port founded in 1843. Learn about our culture in historic Waitangi, the site where The Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between the Maori and European settlers dictating the terms by which New Zealand would become a British colony. Take a travel day to Cape Reinga, the very top of the North Island.

Day 4Paihia to Rotorua

Your journey will take you past scenic native forests and sub-tropical bush, before crossing the Auckland Harbour Bridge to arrive into the spectacular city scene of Auckland. Continue south into the rich farmland of the Waikato and onto the cultural heart of the North Island and Rotorua City.

Rotorua Intercity Depot to Rotorua Accommodation
You will be collected from Rotorua Intercity Coach Depot and transferred to your accommodation.

Day 5Explore Rotorua

Rotorua Morning Sights tour and lunch
Experience Te Puia, a place of Maori culture and a thermal wonderland of impressive geysers and boiling mud pools. Explore Rainbow Springs Nature Park, which showcases native flora and fauna as well as the New Zealand Kiwi. Then see NZ's agricultural industry in action with a sheep shearing display and sheep dog trials at the Agrodome.
Next take a trip up the Skyline Gondola and enjoy fantastic views of the city and lake before enjoying a wonderful buffet lunch as you soak in the scenery.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Polynesian Lake Spa
Rotorua's Polynesian Spa offers a unique thermal spa experience on the shore of Lake Rotorua. You'll enjoy tranquil bathing and lake views in four shallow alkaline rock pools, each with different temperatures (36˚C to 42˚C). Here you are surrounded by revitalising native New Zealand flora, natural rocks, the sound of two waterfalls and a grotto. The pools are filled with soothing alkaline mineral water leaving your skin soft and supple. Relax in the outdoor relaxation area overlooking the four hot mineral pools and Lake Rotorua, here you can further unwind on the five geothermally heated recliners set in the stunning backdrop of New Zealand's lush and natural greenery. A large indoor relaxation lounge also overlooks Lake Rotorua, where as a Lake Spa guest, you are welcome to move from the pools to the lounge once dried off and return to bathe in the Lake Spa pools as you wish. The Lake Spa is a unique thermal pool environment, where the atmosphere changes from day to night, and from winter steam to summer sparkle.

Mitai Maori Village
An evening at Mitai will give you an awe-inspiring introduction to the indigenous Maori culture. Marvel at the beautiful bush setting and see warriors in traditional dress who paddle an ancient warrior canoe (waka) down the Wai-o-whiro stream while trout and eels swim beneath the surface. Enjoy a traditionally cooked hangi meal and round your evening off with a spectacular cultural performance that tells the story of the Maori people, their past, carvings, and ta Moko -Tattoo art. Be captivated by the displays of weaponry and combat and be amazed by the spine tingling Haka finale. Truly an experience to remember.

Day 6Rotorua to Waitomo Caves to Auckland

Rotorua to Waitomo Caves including buffet lunch, then to Auckland
Enjoy this tour from Rotorua to Auckland including a guided tour of the fascinating Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Leaving Rotorua in the morning you travel through lush farmland including the intriguing Fitzgerald Glade where the roadside trees arch overhead to form a tunnel of natural greenery. On arrival in the small town of Waitomo enjoy a guided tour through the world famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves with their amazing stalactites, stalagmites and other limestone formations. You finish the tour with a silent boat ride through the Glowworm Grotto - a subterranean cavern lit up by the lights of thousands of tiny glowworms. At the conclusion of the Glowworm Cave tour we take a break at the magnificent Waitomo Caves visitor complex and enjoy a delicious picnic lunch. You continue this afternoon by driving to Auckland, through the beautiful King Country and Waikato regions.

Day 7Depart Auckland

Transfer to Auckland airport
You will be collected from your Auckland hotel and transferred to the airport to meet your departing flight.

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