10 Day Great Northern Land Boutique Self Drive

Ease into your North Island adventure in New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland — a vibrant hub where nature and culture meet. Take the day to explore its harbours, hilltops and culinary highlights.

Private Transfer – Auckland Airport to Hotel
A friendly driver will meet you at the airport and deliver you smoothly to your accommodation. Sit back and enjoy your first views of the City of Sails.

Suggested Activity – Harbour Sailing Dinner Cruise with Explore
Watch the city lights shimmer from the water as you dine aboard a luxury yacht on Auckland’s harbour. This relaxed sailing experience includes canapés, drinks and a delicious multi-course meal served while cruising past iconic landmarks.

Suggested Activity – All Blacks Experience
Get closer to New Zealand’s sporting pride with this interactive journey into the world of the All Blacks. This hands-on exhibition lets you feel the thrill of game day and even take on the haka.

Suggested Activity – Wētā Workshop Unleashed
Step into a world of fantasy and film with this imaginative behind-the-scenes tour from the Wētā Workshop team. Explore creatures, props, and sets from fictional movie projects in an experience that’s part museum, part movie set, and fully immersive.

Today you’ll escape the city for the tranquil charm of Waiheke Island. With vineyard views and artisan wines, it’s the perfect setting to unwind and indulge.

Fullers Ferry Auckland to Waiheke Island
Enjoy a 45-minute cruise through the Hauraki Gulf as you make your way to Waiheke’s peaceful shores. Sit back and take in coastal views and seabirds along the journey.

Essence of Waiheke Wine Tour with Ananda
Join a local guide for a relaxed tour of three of Waiheke’s top vineyards, sampling acclaimed wines in stunning settings. Along the way, learn about the island’s history, culture and thriving food and wine scene.

Fullers Ferry Waiheke Island to Auckland
Return to the mainland on the scenic afternoon sailing, bringing back memories of the Shire-like hills and vineyard landscapes of Waiheke.

Today’s journey takes you from the urban energy of Auckland to the coastal serenity of Pauanui. The Coromandel Peninsula unfolds with forested hills, historic towns, and white-sand beaches.

Collect Rental Car
Pick up your pre-arranged vehicle and begin your scenic road trip. The included intermediate vehicle ensures comfort, but there are plenty of options if you’d prefer something premium or electric.

Suggested Activity – Driving Creek Railway & Potteries – EyeFull Tower Tour
Hop aboard New Zealand’s only narrow-gauge mountain railway and wind your way through regenerating kauri forest to panoramic views. A creative fusion of art, engineering and conservation, this attraction is a Coromandel icon.

Today you’ll journey deep into the Coromandel Ranges with an expert guide. Ancient trees, crystal-clear streams and volcanic cliffs reveal the region’s untouched beauty.

Wilderness Adventure Walk with Kiwi Dundee – Lunch Included
Explore hidden valleys filled with giant ferns, towering kauri trees, and native birdlife. This off-the-beaten-track experience includes stories, nature insights and a gourmet picnic lunch by a stream or mountaintop.

Depart the coast and follow the scenic route south through the Bay of Plenty, arriving in Rotorua — a place of geothermal wonders and deep cultural roots. Along the way, beach towns give way to hot springs and bubbling mud.

Route Highlights
Stop in Tauranga or Mount Maunganui to stretch your legs or enjoy lunch. As you approach Rotorua, you’ll see steam rising from the earth — a preview of the landscapes ahead.

Today is yours to explore Rotorua’s bubbling geothermal features, rich Māori heritage and healing mineral waters. From adventure to indulgence, Rotorua has a rhythm all its own.

Suggested Activity – Mount Tarawera & Orakei Korako Flight
Soar above crater lakes, steaming vents and geothermal valleys before landing at one of New Zealand’s most explosive volcanic peaks. Continue to Orakei Korako for a walking tour of silica terraces and geysers before flying back across the Waikato River.

Suggested Activity – Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
Wander through a surreal volcanic park filled with neon lakes, bubbling mud, and the dramatic Lady Knox Geyser. This self-guided walk offers some of Rotorua’s most colourful photo ops.

Evening Experience – Te Pā Tū Māori Cultural Dinner
Dine beneath native trees while surrounded by haka, storytelling and song in this moving and immersive cultural celebration. Seasonal kai (cuisine) is served in a forest setting as you learn the ancient traditions of the tangata whenua (people of the land).

Today you’ll travel from bubbling geothermal fields to rugged volcanic landscapes. The journey leads through Taupō and into Tongariro National Park, New Zealand’s oldest and most dramatic.

Suggested Activity – Huka Falls Jet Boat Ride
Hold on tight for an exhilarating spin beneath the thunderous Huka Falls. This 30-minute ride offers a powerful, up-close view of one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonders.

Suggested Activity – Sky Waka Gondola
Take a scenic gondola ride to the upper slopes of Mt Ruapehu for panoramic views across the volcanic plateau. At 2020 metres, enjoy lunch or coffee with vistas that stretch across the entire national park.

Today you’ll take on the iconic Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a full-day hike through a surreal volcanic landscape. With emerald lakes, craters and mountain views, it’s one of the world’s best one-day walks.

Private Guided Tongariro Crossing with Adrift
Enjoy the safety and insight of a professional guide who tailors the hike to your pace and conditions. Your guide will handle logistics, interpret the geology and even help you avoid the crowds where possible.

Today’s journey leads you into the rolling farmlands of the Waikato, home to magical underground worlds. Waitomo’s glowworm caves are a spectacular finale to your boutique journey.

Private Footwhistle Glowworm Cave Tour
Explore a family-run cave with minimal lighting and maximum glow. Learn Māori legends, cave formation history and enjoy a peaceful tea ceremony in the bush after your underground adventure.

Travel north through the lush Waikato countryside back to Auckland. If time allows, stop in Otorohanga to visit native kiwi birds before returning your car.

Depart Auckland Today
Drop off your rental car and continue your onward journey — taking with you unforgettable memories of New Zealand’s Great Northern Land.