New Zealand North Island Uncovered - 9 Days

On arrival in Auckland, you are met by a representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening, enjoy a complimentary pre-dinner drink as you meet your tour leader and fellow travellers before dinner.

Please note: If arriving later than 8.00pm, dinner is not included.

We leave Auckland and travel to Matakohe to visit the Kauri Museum, where we gain an insight into the region’s pioneering history and the significance of the mighty kauri tree. Continuing via Whangarei, we arrive in Paihia in the beautiful Bay of Islands. We then enjoy a guided visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between Maori chiefs and the British Crown.

Today is free for you to enjoy the Bay of Islands at your own pace. You may wish to join one of the optional activities on offer, including a full-day trip to Cape Reinga via Ninety Mile Beach or a scenic flight over this spectacular region. This evening is also free - perhaps enjoy an optional dinner cruise or just relax at the hotel.

This morning we cruise through the Bay of Islands to Cape Brett, where a historic lighthouse overlooks Piercy Island, better known as the Hole in the Rock. Keep watch for dolphins and other marine life along the way. Returning to Paihia, we travel south via Whangarei to Auckland. This evening is free for you to explore the local dining options near the hotel.

This morning we take in the sights of Auckland before departing for Rotorua. Travelling through rolling countryside, we arrive at Hobbiton for lunch. Our guided tour of the famous 12-acre movie set takes us past Hobbit Holes, the Mill and the Green Dragon Inn. We also step inside an authentic Hobbit Hole interior for an immersive look into the world of the Shire.

Today begins with a gondola ride and breakfast at Skyline Rotorua, where sweeping views of the region await. There is also time to enjoy a thrilling luge ride. We then visit the Agrodome for a lively and entertaining introduction to New Zealand farming life.

After some free time this afternoon, we head to Te Puia to experience the bubbling mud pools and powerful geysers that make Rotorua one of New Zealand’s best-known geothermal regions. This evening we enjoy a traditional Hangi feast, cooked underground using heated stones, followed by a Maori cultural performance featuring poi dance and haka.

We depart Rotorua and follow the Thermal Explorer Highway, passing Huka Falls and Lake Taupo. Continuing to Napier, we arrive in a city renowned for its remarkable collection of Art Deco architecture. We board the Hawke’s Bay Express for an informative tour that brings Napier’s fascinating history to life. Later, you have free time to explore the city at your leisure.

This morning we travel south to Wellington. On arrival, we enjoy a city sights tour of New Zealand’s capital, known for its creative energy, harbour setting and rich history. A highlight is time to explore Gallipoli - A Scale of War exhibition at Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum, where powerful storytelling and cutting-edge technology bring these wartime experiences vividly to life. This evening, enjoy a pre-dinner drink before we gather for our farewell dinner and reflect on the journey we have shared.

Our North Island holiday comes to an end today. You are transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand tour.

Please note: If departing the hotel before the restaurant opens, breakfast is not included.