Bay of Islands, Waitomo & Rotorua Itinerary

When you touch down in New Zealand your detailed documentation pack will be hand-delivered by one of our trusted representatives. You'll find everything you need in one handy place: your personalised itinerary, clear instructions and maps, and reservation details for your accommodation and activities.

24 Hour Assistance: We’re just a free phone call away if you encounter any issues while you're on the road - at any time of day or night. Don’t waste your precious vacation time stressing - First Light Travel are here to help you quickly when every second counts.

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‘Haere Mai’ … welcome to New Zealand. Now you can relax - you are officially on holiday. Everything has been taken care of, we will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your accommodation.

Enjoy a relaxing day exploring Auckland, also known as the ‘City of Sails’. Soak up the harbour side beauty of the central city and enjoy the world-class dining options of the Viaduct and Princes Wharf. There’s quality shopping on offer and, for spectacular views over the city and beyond, a visit up Aucklands Sky Tower is not to be missed. For an insight into New Zealand history and culture, the Auckland War Memorial Museum is a great place to explore.

Some Activities and sightseeing options if you have time:

Accommodation Auckland - 1 night

With an early departure from Auckland you will be travelling by coach to the amazing Waitomo Caves. Tour the Waitomo Glow Worm Grotto by boat with a local guide. From here your journey continues to Rotorua.  

An evening at Mitai will give you an authentic introduction to Maori culture Enter the world of the Mitai family whose home is in a natural bush setting, see their warriors in traditional dress paddle an ancient warrior canoe (waka) down the Wai-o-whiro stream. This incredibly clear water is full of eels and trout and flows directly from the earth at the sacred Fairy Spring. Enjoy a traditionally cooked hangi meal steamed underground. During our cultural performance, you'll learn about the tribes past, see their carvings and ta moko (tattoo art).

You'll be amazed by the spine-tingling haka finale.

Accommodation Rotorua - 2 Nights

This morning you will experience Maori Culture and the amazing Te Puia. You will continue on to the Rainbow Springs Nature Park where you can join the Kiwi Encounter and then head over to the Agrodome Sheep Show for a taste of 'very kiwi' farm life. During the afternoon you can enjoy some free time. 

Some recommendations for the afternoon:

Today your journey extends all the way to the Bay of Islands - a marine wonderland brimming with unique sights and wildlife. The sub-tropical region of the Bay of Islands is a stunning Maritime Park with 144 islands, secluded bays, and an abundance of marine life including marlin, whales, penguins, dolphins, gannets and many other species. Being somewhat sheltered, the area is ideal for yachting, fishing, kayaking and diving. Rolling countryside, tidal estuaries, mangroves, sparkling and long silvery beaches abound. It is an area of considerable historical significance, and is the place where Maori and European signed the Treaty of Waitangi that joined them as one nation. Long considered the cradle of Polynesian and European settlement in New Zealand, the area is rich in history and natural beauty. The coach will take you from Rotorua to Paihia via Auckland. 

Accommodation Bay of Islands - 2 Nights

Take today a coach trip up to Cape Reinga - the very top of New Zealand, via idyllic Ninety Mile Beach. The driver will take the bus up Te Paki Stream towards the mountainous sand dunes. Enjoy New Zealand's varying and beautiful landscape. Visit the Puketi Kauri Forest and see the majestic giant kauri trees and native bush. Return to the Bay of Islands in the evening after an unforgettable journey. 

Alternative excursions available in the Bay of Islands:

Hole in the Rock is the most popular dolphin watching cruise in the Bay of Islands, and for good reason! Board your cruise in Paihia or Russell and take in the stunning views as we glide out through the islands and along the Rakaumangamanga Peninsula to Cape Brett, where a historic lighthouse keeps watch over Piercy Island/Motukōkako, or as it is popularly known the 'Hole in the Rock'. This four-hour cruise includes an island stopover, dolphin viewing and the Hole in the Rock. Morning cruises depart daily and you can spend the rest of the day at leisure. In the late afternoon we will continue by coach back to Auckland. 

Accommodation Auckland - 1 Night

Homeward Bound"Haere rā" Goodbye! and Bon Voyage!

Today we say farewell to newfound friends. We take care of your transfer to Auckland Airport where you will board your onward flight, taking with you the magical memories of a truly exceptional New Zealand holiday.