Privately Guided North Island Journey Itinerary

Group of tourists exploring Auckland's Eastern Bays

Your Private Driver/Guide

When you touch down in New Zealand you will be met at the airport by Your Private Driver/Guide. 

Our guides have been with us for a long time and are seasoned professionals. Our aim is to give ‘you’ our guests a memorable experience of New Zealand and its stunning scenery. With years of experience in tourism in New Zealand, we guarantee that you will receive a first-class service!

The best part about our guides is that they are local and chances are they have their go-to destinations that only locals know about. Whether it’s a hole-in-the-wall restaurant, a favourite local pub, or a fantastic attraction that most tourists overlook, our guides can help recommend authentic experiences that you may not discover on your own.

Private Guides for First Light Travel

1

Arrive Auckland

‘Haere Mai’ … Welcome to New Zealand

Relax you are now officially on holiday and everything has been taken care of! On arrival you will be transferred from the airport to your accommodation to freshen up and unwind. Make the most of some free leisure time in the 'City of Sails' - simply relax or take this opportunity to explore the many sights of Auckland. Explore the highly acclaimed Waterfront Restaurant Quarter, visit the Sky Tower, join a Whale & Dolphin Safari or go America's Cup Sailing to get a feel for Auckland and the surrounding area.

Accommodation: Auckland - 1 Night

Auckland War Memorial Museum
Accommodation:
A contemporary hotel for the curious, the explorers and those who thrive on new experiences. Functionally chic, this contemporary hotel features 190 rooms and suites designed for all travellers, overlooking the vibrant Princes Wharf that is home to a stunning array of dining, entertainment and shopping experiences.
M Social Auckland

2

Waiheke Island Private Gourmet Food & Wine Tour

Your island adventure begins with a ferry ride from Auckland to Waiheke, where a private gourmet food and wine tour awaits. Visit select vineyards to savour premium wines paired with artisanal cheeses, and enjoy a private gourmet lunch highlighting local produce. Explore boutique wineries and specialty food producers with insights from your expert guide. After a day of culinary delights and scenic island views, relax and enjoy the return ferry ride to Auckland.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Private Gourmet Food & Wine Tour

3

Auckland to Hahei

Sit back and enjoy a scenic drive from Auckland to Hahei with your private driver/guide, passing rolling hills, coastal vistas, and charming small towns along the way. Arrive at this picturesque seaside village and enjoy time to explore its stunning beaches, hidden coves, and natural attractions. Stroll along golden sands, capture the dramatic coastline in photos, or simply relax and take in the scenery. This serene destination offers the perfect blend of discovery and relaxation before your onward journey.

Approximate Distance: 180 kms | 112 miles  Total Driving Time: 2 hours 30 mins

Included Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hahei - 2 Nights

Hahei Beach
Accommodation:
11 Cosy wooden cottages with leadlight windows and French doors opening onto sunny verandas and beautiful gardens, scattered throughout 1.5 acres of native bush and gardens with all cottages landscaped for their individual peace and privacy with a range of unique self-catering accommodation options. Onsite a reconstructed 1916 Methodist Church is an independently run restaurant offering our guests to Hahei an unique and tasty dining experience.
The Church

4

Cathedral Cove Boat Tour

Set off from Hahei on a scenic boat journey along New Zealand’s stunning coastline to the iconic Cathedral Cove. Glide past pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs, and marine life-rich waters as your friendly guide shares local insights and stories. Marvel at the natural limestone arch and hidden coves, perfect for photos and moments of awe. The experience offers a unique perspective of this legendary landscape, with plenty of time to relax, take in the scenery, and enjoy the sparkling waters before returning to Hahei.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Cathedral Cove Boat Tour

5

Hahei to Taupo

Set off from Hahei with your private driver-guide on a picturesque journey to Taupō. Arrive in this lakeside town, famed for the shimmering waters of Lake Taupō, the mighty Huka Falls, and nearby geothermal wonders. Explore the vibrant town centre, stroll along the lakefront, or soak in the scenery that blends volcanic landscapes with lush native forests. Your guide ensures a seamless arrival, leaving you free to relax and enjoy Taupō’s natural beauty and outdoor attractions.

Approximate Distance: 265 kms | 165 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 45 mins

Included Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Taupo - 2 Nights

Lake Taupo
Accommodation:
Located on the lakefront of Lake Taupō, our self-contained, serviced, motel accommodation has a range of studios and one bedroom units. Take in the spectacular views or take a swim in their pool on those hot summer days. The Reef Resort is a great base to stay and explore all the Taupo region has to offer.
Reef Resort Taupo

6

Scenic Floatplane Flight with Mt Ruapehu Vista

egin your day in with a scenic floatplane flight over Lake Taupō and the volcanic heart of the North Island. Climb to around 10,000 ft for panoramic aerial views of the active crater lake atop Mount Ruapehu, snow‑capped peaks, the Emerald Lakes, Mount Ngauruhoe, and the dramatic landscapes of Tongariro National Park. This unforgettable airborne experience showcases rugged volcanic terrain and sweeping natural beauty from a unique perspective, with departure and landing on the water at Taupō Marina.

Included Meals: Breakfast
 

Taupos Floatplane

7

Taupo to Martinborough

Depart Taupō with your private driver-guide for a scenic journey to Martinborough. Travel through rolling countryside and charming rural towns, arriving in the heart of New Zealand’s renowned Wairarapa wine region. Wander the quaint village streets and take in the serene landscapes that blend vineyards with gently rolling hills. Your guide ensures a seamless arrival, leaving you free to enjoy Martinborough’s celebrated wine culture and picturesque surroundings at a relaxed pace.

Approximate Distance: 375 kms | 235 miles  Total Driving Time: 5 hours

Included Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Martinborough - 1 Night

Martinborough Wine Country

Escape to Brackenridge Country Retreat & Spa, a serene haven set amidst the rolling hills of the Wairarapa countryside. Enjoy luxurious accommodation, unwind in the tranquil spa, and explore beautifully landscaped gardens and walking trails. Indulge in gourmet dining experiences featuring local flavours, or simply relax with a book on your private terrace. Perfect for couples, solo travellers, or small groups seeking rest and rejuvenation, Brackenridge offers a peaceful retreat from the everyday, blending comfort, nature, and personalised service for an unforgettable country escape.

Brackenridge Country Retreat & Spa

8

Martinborough to Wellington

Travel through the scenic Wairarapa countryside en route to Wellington, arriving in New Zealand’s vibrant capital to explore its harbour, lively waterfront, and cultural highlights. Stroll boutique streets, relax in cafés, or take in iconic landmarks while soaking up the city’s unique blend of urban energy and natural beauty. On arrival, farewell your private driver-guide and enjoy Wellington at your own pace, discovering its charm, creative spirit, and stunning harbour views

Approximate Distance: 85 kms | 53 miles  Total Driving Time: 1 hour 15 mins

Included Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Wellington - 2 Nights

Wellington Harbour
Ohtel Wellington is a stylish boutique hotel on Oriental Parade in Wellington’s scenic Oriental Bay, overlooking the waterfront and marina. It offers individually designed rooms with mid‑century inspired décor and a relaxed, contemporary vibe, perfect for both leisure and city stays. The hotel is within walking distance of major attractions like Te Papa Museum, lively restaurants, bars, and entertainment, making it an ideal base for exploring Wellington’s culture and harbour views.
Othel

9

Wellington at Leisure

Wellington blends urban energy with natural beauty. Wander lively streets brimming with street art, cafés, and unique shops, then explore the creative galleries and Te Papa Museum, New Zealand’s national museum showcasing art, history, and culture. Relax in peaceful gardens or take a short walk up a nearby hill for panoramic city views. With everything close together, it’s easy to soak in Wellington’s vibrant art scene, rich heritage, and charming atmosphere, making for a truly memorable day in the capital.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Wellington City

10

Farewell From Wellington

"Haere rā" Goodbye! and Bon Voyage!

We take care of your transfer to Wellington Airport where you will board your onward flight, taking with you the magical memories of a truly exceptional New Zealand holiday. Our promise is to make your travels through New Zealand as hassle-free and hospitable as possible - ensuring that today you leave with plenty of photos, and huge smiles on your faces when recalling your time in New Zealand! Have a great homeward journey, farewell and hope to see you again soon in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

Included Meals: Breakfast

bon voyage toast

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What Elizabeth says about this tour: Relax and enjoy this privately guided North Island journey, with a flexible itinerary to suit your interests. I love how it blends scenic landscapes, charming towns, and local experiences with a seamless, effortless pace, offering comfort, culture, and memorable moments throughout your New Zealand adventure.
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Pricing terms

The price is based on current exchange rates but is only an approximation. Please contact us for a final price