8 Day Northern Wonders Itinerary

1

Wellington - 'Our Cool Little Capital'

‘Haere Mai’ … welcome to New Zealand. Now you can relax - you are officially on holiday.

Enjoy a relaxing day exploring Wellington. Located in at the southernmost end of New Zealand's North Island, Wellington is the nation’s capital city. A magnificent landscape of steep sided hills sits beside a beautiful harbour, and the city itself bustles with a vibrant creative culture. Renowned for its eclectic, arty atmosphere, Wellington is a real kiwi cultural treat and numerous galleries and character-filled shops line its colourful streets.

Visit Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand and explore the fascinating exhibits. Join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception in the evening.

Accommodation: Wellington - 1 night

Accommodation:

Travelodge Wellington

Located in a modern tower 300m from the waterfront, the Travelodge is just a few minutes walk from the harbour and the centre of Wellington. Main attractions such as the famous Cable Car, Botanic Garden and Te Papa (the national museum) all are situated within walking distance so transportation in the city centre is unnecessary. From here it is easy to enjoy a city trip that includes everything you don't want to miss when visiting New Zealand's (culture) capital!

2

Tongariro National Park / Rotorua

Your special packed lunch today won’t only be wholesome, it will also feed a Kiwi child who may otherwise go without, through the charity ‘Eat My Lunch’. From the Kapiti Coast head inland for views of Mt. Ruapehu and the plains of Tongariro National Park . Drive along the shore of Lake Taupo, and stop to view Huka Falls before continuing to Rotorua. A very entertaining cultural experience awaits you at the Tamaki Māori Village. Experience a powerful Haka challenge, witness a concert showcasing Māori culture, and dine at a traditional Māori Hangi feast Highlight Dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Highlight Dinner

Accommodation: Rotorua - 2 nights

Accommodation:

Ibis Rotorua

Situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Rotorua, this hotel offers tranquil surroundings with sensational views, near to many bars, restaurants and main attractions. The Ibis Rotorua offers great accommodation to travellers that want to make most out of their stay in New Zealand's geothermal area.

3

Explore Rotorua at your own pace

Today is a free day for you to explore the interesting attractions Rotorua is famous for. Not far away is Rainbow Springs, learn about native flora and fauna, including seeing the famous Kiwi bird. Or go on the Skyline Gondola to see the superb views over Rotorua city its lake and surrounding mountains. There are geothermal vents and signs of activity all over the city - walk down to the lakefront and enjoy.

Today is a free day for you to explore.

Meals: Breakfast

4

Glowworms & The City of Sails

Descending into the fertile plains of the Waikato we stop at the Waitomo. Here, a magnificent natural light display twinkles in an underground labyrinth of limestone cave formations. We experience the magical Glow Worm Grotto on a boat before strolling through the intriguing cave systems before making our way to Auckland.

The Auckland isthmus straddles a slim piece of land with coastline facing both the Pacific Ocean, and, on the wild West Coast, the Tasman Sea. Relax you are on holiday, take time to stroll around the Viaduct Harbour, sit in a cafe and enjoy your surroundings - this is a friendly easygoing city.

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Auckland - 1 night

Accommodation:

VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites

Right on the main street of Auckland City's CBD, this brand new VR Hotel has proudly opened its doors to accommodate travellers who are exploring Auckland and surroundings. The location is on walking distance from the harbour, SkyCity, many shops and restaurants and the city's most popular attractions. Furthermore, public transport is easily accessible from this location. Many bars and restaurants are also available in nearby suburbs Mount Eden and Ponsonby.

5

Journey North to the Bay of Islands

Your journey north to New Zealand’s Bay of Islands is not short of drama – discover 140 droplets of land ringed by turquoise sea at the top of the country. It’s undeniably beautiful, but it also holds a special historical secret: this is where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840, between Captain William Hobson and Māori chiefs. Your guide, likely an ancestor of one of the original signatories, will explain the significance of the site, while pointing out the world’s largest ceremonial war canoe and a carved meeting house.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation Bay of Islands - 2 nights

Accommodation:

Copthorne Hotel & Resort Bay of Islands

This four star hotel offers uninterrupted Bay views surrounded by 60 acres of subtropical gardens and the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds. It features a spectacular, lagoon style swimming pool and rock pools of cascading water. The hotel’s 180 guest rooms have individual patios or balconies from which to enjoy the water or garden views. Taking inspiration from nature, rooms have been designed to blend into the natural environment whilst offering a serene escape.

Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands

6

A Day of Leisure

Today is a free day to explore. Why not visit historic Russell, only a 10 minute ferry ride away, Russell is a favourite destination for holidaying New Zealanders, with outstanding beaches and opportunities for boating. Settle in and enjoy while indulging in a fine dining experience at one of the seafront restaurants in Russell.

Excursions available if you want to get 'Out and About' are:

Historical Island Cruise	Diving Rainbow Warrior	4WD Adventure Cape Reinga
Sailing the Islands	Dolphin Swimming	Giant Kauri Forest Walk
Cultural Tour of Waitangi	Golf at Kauri Cliffs	Sea Kayaking the Bay

Meals: Breakfast

7

Bay of Islands – Auckland

After time at leisure this morning, depart the Bay of Islands. Then, walk among the Kauri trees at Parry Kauri Park. Relax as you make your way down Northland’s lush farmland scenery into Auckland. Take an orientation tour of the city before joining your Travel Director for a Farewell Dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner

Accommodation: Auckland - 1 night

Accommodation:

VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites

Right on the main street of Auckland City's CBD, this brand new VR Hotel has proudly opened its doors to accommodate travellers who are exploring Auckland and surroundings. The location is on walking distance from the harbour, SkyCity, many shops and restaurants and the city's most popular attractions. Furthermore, public transport is easily accessible from this location. Many bars and restaurants are also available in nearby suburbs Mount Eden and Ponsonby.