Highlights of the North Island Itinerary

Situated amongst a cluster of extinct volcanic cones, next to a large harbour that bustles with life, both on water and on land. 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. 

After you have been transferred to your accommodation take a stroll around our beautiful city, explore the highly acclaimed viaduct or choose one of the many activities available to give a more in depth understanding of Auckland and the surrounding area.

Accommodation: Auckland - 1 Night

After a pleasant drive north along the famed Hibiscus Coast to the Bay of Islands, its a quick ferry ride across the water is charming Russell. This is a small, historic seaside village on a peninsula in the eastern Bay of Islands. Since the 1700s it has provided a haven for visitors, offering shelter and hospitality. 

Russell was the first capital of New Zealand and one of the first European settlements. There are numerous waterfront cafes and restaurants, making this a great place to soak up the atmosphere and really enjoy a most memorable holiday.

Approximate Distance: 232 kms | 145 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 30 mins 

Accommodation: Russell - 2 Nights

This 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 give you the rest of the day to explore at leisure.

Heading south from Paihia take the opportunity and drive across to the West Coast on the road less traveled. The west coast village of Matakohe houses the Kauri Museum which gives an insight into Northland’s pioneering past  through the use of kauri timber and kauri gum. There are many fascinating displays and galleries inside the museum from the magnificent collection of antique kauri furniture and the largest collection of kauri gum in the world including restored steam operated forestry machinery and much more.

Approximate Distance: 233 kms | 144 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Auckland - 1 Night

The green rolling landscapes of the Waikato region, seen as you drive south of Auckland. The caves at Waitomo are one of New Zealand's most commanding wonders.

Spellbound Glowworm and Cave Explorer
As you enter this galaxy of tiny living lights, you will glide silently through the starry wonderland of the Glowworm Grotto, your way lit by a myriad of tiny glowworm lights, glittering, glimmering and reflecting off the water. This small group tour allows you to visit two unique caves and marvel at the amazing stalactites and stalagmites. Continue on to Rotorua, set in a tranquil Lakeland with significant Māori culture and awesome geothermal activity.

Approximate Distance: 230 kms | 144 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours

Accommodation: Rotorua - 2 Nights

Wai-O-Tapu has become one of the most visited attraction in New Zealand and houses some of the world’s most incredible geothermal forces. Take a walk through and observe the world famous and multicolored champagne pool, catch the daily eruption of the Lady Knox geyser that spurts out boiling liquid at 10.15 am daily to a height of 20 meters.

Spend an evening feasting on a selection of foods cooked the traditional Māori way - on hot stones in an authentic earthen oven (a Hāngī). Understand the spiritual significance of the moko (facial tattoo) as warriors demonstrate with tools made of fine bird bone and sharpened greenstone and then perform a concert including the world famous ‘Haka’.

"Haere rā" Goodbye! and Bon Voyage!

Depending on your scheduling you may have time to partake in one of the many excursions available around the region before returning to Auckland for your homeward flight.

We know you will enjoy your time in New Zealand's North Island and 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.

Approximate Distance: 230 kms | 143 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours