AAT Kings - Jewels of the Bay Itinerary

Hit the road in the morning for a scenic sojourn to the Bay of Islands. This pocket of the country deserves its name – there are more than 140 subtropical islets off the coast here, lined with blissful undeveloped and unpeopled beaches. 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, officially denoting New Zealand as a member of the Commonwealth. Your guide, likely an ancestor of one of the original signatories, will explain the importance of the site, while pointing out the world’s largest ceremonial war canoe and a carved meeting house. These are just some of the Māori artefacts that characterize this part of the north coast. You wanted an introduction to New Zealand heritage on day one – you got it. 

Please note: As this holiday departs Auckland at 7.30am from the Stamford Plaza Hotel  accommodation will need to be pre-booked for the previous night.

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Bay of Islands -  2 Nights

Today is completely free for you to discover more of the beauty of the Bay of Islands: Consider an optional experience. Perhaps go sailing aboard a historic tall ship. During this full-day sail, you can take your turn on the helm, hoist the sails or climb the rigging. Enjoy morning tea and delicious BBQ lunch served on board. Or join a guided tour of the Bay of Islands. With an abundance of breathtaking, picturesque views, there are plenty of fantastic photo opportunities for you to create lasting memories. Tonight, you are free to dine as you wish. You may want to experience a ‘Kiwi tradition’ – fish and chips on the beach

Excursions available in and around the Bay of Islands.

Meal: Breakfast

Enjoy a leisurely morning before you travel back to Auckland. On an optional experience you could take a wander through the grounds of New Zealand’s most important historic site, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, rich in history and stories of the momentous events which shaped a nation. The grounds are where Māori chiefs first signed their accord with the British Crown – the Treaty of Waitangi, New Zealand’s founding document.

Later, you’ll journey south to Whangarei, the northernmost city in New Zealand, where there’s time to admire the local art and stroll along the marina in the Town Basin. Continue to Parry Kauri Park, where you’ll embark on a memorable walk among the ancient kauri trees, two of which have stood in the forest for 800 years. Later this afternoon you’ll arrive in Auckland, where your Bay of Islands encounter concludes.

Please note: As this holiday ends at 4.00pm in Auckland, unless you have a flight booked or have made your own arrangements, accommodation will need to be pre-booked for this night.

Meal: Breakfast