Far North Scenery, Māori Heritage and Coastal Landscapes
Far North landscapes and rich Māori heritage shape this 11-hour coach tour from Paihia. The route travels through Northland to Te Rerenga Wairua Cape Reinga, where the lighthouse and surrounding headland provide wide coastal views.
Te Oneroa-a-Tōhe Ninety Mile Beach may form part of the journey when tides, weather and access conditions allow. Sandboarding is also offered when conditions are suitable, while a picnic lunch and informative driver commentary are included throughout the day.
Tour Highlights
Coastal views from the Cape Reinga lighthouse
Insight into the significance of Te Rerenga Wairua
Purpose-built coach travel through the Far North
Te Oneroa-a-Tōhe Ninety Mile Beach when accessible
Sandboarding on the dunes when conditions are suitable
Informative commentary throughout the journey
Return coach travel from Paihia
Experienced driver-guide
Commentary about Far North history, culture and landscapes
Visit to Te Rerenga Wairua Cape Reinga
Travel along Ninety Mile Beach when conditions allow
Sandboarding when conditions permit
Picnic lunch
Selected scenic and comfort stops
Check in at least 15 minutes before departure
The itinerary may change due to weather, tides and road conditions
Ninety Mile Beach access cannot be guaranteed
Sandboarding operates only when conditions are suitable
Sandboarding is not suitable for children under 8 years
The tour operates subject to minimum passenger numbers
The day includes extended periods of coach travel
Adults: 16 years and older
Children: 5 - 15 years
Infants 0-4 years: Free of charge
More than 24 hours before departure: Full refund**
Within 24 hours: No refund
**Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount. Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.
Itinerary
Ninety Mile Beach
This is a quick guide to the places in the Far North that you will travel through or past, that you will learn about. Due to time constraints, stops are only at a few places.
Haruru Falls: Discover the unique horseshoe-shaped Haruru Falls, nestled on the Waitangi River. These falls have a rich history as New Zealand’s inaugural river port. Stroll along the scenic boardwalk linking the falls and the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, or experience their beauty under the evening lights.
Kerikeri: This fertile land was cherished by early Māori for agriculture, later attracting European settlers. Witness the site where New Zealand's first plough turned the soil in 1820. Explore Kemp House, New Zealand's oldest building, dating back to 1822, situated by the Kerikeri River. Don't miss the historic Stone Store, erected in 1833. Nowadays, Kerikeri is famed for its citrus orchards.
Whangaroa Harbour: A narrow, almost landlocked harbour, Whangaroa is enveloped in mystery and charm. Once a bustling port surrounded by kauri forests, it drew overseas ships to its shores.
Mangonui Harbour: Step back in time at this historical harbour, once a hub for the kauri timber trade and a haven for whaling boats. As you journey through, admire the well-preserved 19th-century architecture.
Doubtless Bay: Christened by Captain Cook in 1769, Doubtless Bay boasts stunning beaches and the quaint settlements of Taipa and Mangonui. In Taipa, discover a sculpture near the river bridge honouring Polynesian voyager Kupe’s landing around 950 A.D.
Awanui / Ka Uri Unearthed: Here, marvel at exquisite furniture, arts, and crafts made from ancient kauri, a New Zealand treasure. The highlight is a 50-tonne centrepiece with an internal staircase. Relax in the licensed café and soak up the ambiance.
Te Oneroa-A-Tohe (Ninety Mile Beach): Experience the thrill of driving along this vast, sandy coastline, rich in legends and history. Discover fascinating tales and landmarks on your tour.
Te Paki Stream: The gateway to Te Oneroa-A-Tohe (Ninety Mile Beach) from New Zealand's top end. Note that Fullers GreatSights now chooses alternative routes to protect the stream’s delicate ecosystem and biodiversity.
Parengarenga Harbour: Be dazzled by the shimmering white silica sand bar forming this harbour's southern peninsula. It's also a significant departure point for godwits embarking on their epic journey to China’s Yellow Sea.
Cape Maria Van Diemen: Named by Abel Tasman in 1643 after the wife of his patron, this cape offers breathtaking views and a rich historical tapestry.
Te Rerenga Wairua (Cape Reinga): New Zealand's northernmost tip, this sacred place is where Māori spirits begin their final journey. Witness the confluence of the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean, and the lighthouse whose light reaches 50km away.
Pricing
Cost per person
October 2025 - September 2026
Adult: NZ$195
Child (10-15yrs): NZ$98
October 2026- September 2027
Adult: NZ$225
Child (10-15yrs): NZ$113
Prices are correct at the time of publishing but may change without notice.