NORTHERN EXPERIENCE - 8 Days

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Arrive Auckland

‘Haere Mai’ … welcome to New Zealand

After we meet and transfer you from the airport, settle into your hotel, then see Auckland your way − visit the Sky Tower, Viaduct Harbour or explore the Waitemata Harbour by ferry. A Welcome Drink with your Tour Director and travel companions ends the day.

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Auckland − Bay of Islands

Over the Auckland Harbour Bridge and through Orewa and the gorgeously scenic Hibiscus Coast. Walk amongst the Kauri trees at Parry Kauri park. We have time to explore Whangarei, the northern-most city in New Zealand then it’s off to Paihia and the beautiful Bay of Islands. Optional we’ll visit the historic Waitangi Treaty Reserve, where New Zealand’s founding document was signed. You’ll have time on your own to take in highlights such as the magnificent Maori War Canoe (Waka) and Marae (Meeting House). Hotel: Copthorne Hotel & Resort (Water View), Bay of Islands, 2 nights.

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Bay of Islands ‘Free Time’

The day is yours to explore the Bay of Islands. Dolphin watch, catch a ferry to Russell, take a coach ride along the Ninety Mile Beach, sail or sea kayak - whatever takes your fancy. Top off your day with a night on the town.

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Bay of Islands − Auckland

Enjoy a scenic cruise through the sensational Bay of Islands to Cape Brett and the famous ‘Hole in the Rock’. We’ll explore Urupukapuka Island on our way back then return to Auckland.

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Auckland − Rotorua

After an Auckland City Sights Tour, we trace New Zealand’s longest river − the Waikato − to Waitomo Caves. We’ll see the amazing underground Glow Worm Grotto by boat and walk the Limestone caves. On arrival in Rotorua an orientation tour takes in views of Lake Rotorua. Optional tonight The Realm of Tãne, including a Maori Hangi feast and Concert.

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Rotorua

Breakfast cruise, with sparkling wine, on Lake Rotorua onboard the historic Lakeland Queen. We then head to the Agrodome Sheep Show for a sample of farm life. Optional visit Te Puia and be accompanied by a local Maori guide for a tour of the Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve. An afternoon of ‘Free Time’.

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Rotorua − Wellington

From the mountains to the sea. View the Huka Falls. Visit Taupo and drive along the shores of its lake. Travel through the alpine scenery of Mt. Ruapehu. Tongariro National Park. Manawatu. The Kapiti Coast. On arrival in Wellington a city sights tour, with views of the city from Mt. Victoria.

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Depart Wellington

Time this morning to explore Wellington your way. optional Then we’ll see Parliament House and visit Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum, with time to discover it yourself. Later we will transfer you to the airport for your return flight.

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FARM STAY OPTION

A warm welcome awaits you on your New Zealand farm stay and your hosts will provide you with the wonderful Kiwi hospitality that really makes you feel ‘at home’. Enjoy wholesome meals, a farm tour to introduce you to the way of life and comfortable accommodation in the farm home or cottages. You may choose to meet the farm animals, including sheep, cows, deer and many others or simply relax and enjoy the company of your hosts and the scenic surroundings. Please enquire about adding the farm stay option to the evening of day 6 of this New Zealand holiday.

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