+64 6 753 5697
+64 6 753 5697
+64 6 753 5697
+64 6 753 5697
Learn about New Zealand's history, cruise around the Bay of Islands and enjoy a scenic flight to the top of the North Island.
Heading south again you travel to Rotorua via Hobbiton village and experience New Zealand's geothermal capital before returning to Auckland via Waitomo Caves.
Day 1: Arrive in Auckland
On arrival you will be met and driven to your Auckland accommodation.
Day 2: Auckland to Paihia
Starting in Auckland, travel north to the Bay of Islands. After arriving in Paihia, visit neighbouring Waitangi for a guided tour of the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Explore the original Treaty House, one of New Zealand's oldest and most visited historic homes and the Te Whare Runanga, a fully carved Māori meeting house, which is representative of all iwi in New Zealand. The Waitangi Treaty Grounds offer a truly unique insight into New Zealand's early history.
Day 3: Hole in the Rock Cruise
Take a glimpse into New Zealand's earliest European history as your luxury catamaran passes by the township of Russell (Kororareka) and many of the historic and culturally significant islands in the Bay, before heading out into open sea. Enjoy the views as you cruise past the Cape Brett Lighthouse, before arriving at the stunning Motukokako Island, home of the majestic Hole in the Rock. As we venture into the dramatic Hole in the Rock (conditions permitting) hold your breath as the skipper navigates through the narrow space and admire the rock walls which soar above you. Take in the Grand Cathedral Cave before heading back into the sheltered waters of the Bay. Enjoy a visit to one of the most beautiful islands in the Bay where you can enjoy one of the many walks or unwind on the white sandy beach.
Day 4: Russell Mini Tour, then return to Auckland
This intimate one-hour coach tour visits many of Russell’s iconic locations that make it so significant in New Zealand’s early history. Travel by bus back to the City of Sails, Auckland
Day 5: Explore Auckland
Jump on board the Auckland Explorer Bus and then hop on and off where you want. Your pass includes the central city Red Tour and the outer city Blue Tour, admission to SkyTower and the Auckland SEA LIFE Aquarium.
Day 6: Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton Movie Set
Departing from Auckland city, this is a wonderful way to get to Rotorua and include a magical journey through Middle-earth to the Hobbiton Movie Set from "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" films. Travel south from Auckland over the Bombay Hills to the rich farmland of the Waikato region. On arrival at Shire's Rest you embark on your Hobbiton movie set tour where you will see 44 hobbit holes, the Mill and double arch bridge, the party tree and visit the Green Dragon Inn. An evening at Te Pā Tū will give you an awe-inspiring introduction to the indigenous Maori culture. Enjoy a traditionally cooked hangi meal and round your evening off with a spectacular cultural performance that tells the story of the Maori people, their past, carvings, and ta Moko -Tattoo art.
Day 7: Explore Rotorua
This morning enjoy optional tours of Rotorua, including Te Puia, Polynesian Spa, Canopy Tours or the Skyline gondola. Fly over the site of the largest eruption in New Zealand’s living memory, Mount Tarawera, and gain an appreciation of how the 1886 eruption changed this stunning landscape.
Day 8: Rotorua to Auckland via Waitomo Caves
Enjoy this tour from Rotorua to Auckland including a guided tour of the fascinating Waitomo Glowworm Caves. At the conclusion of the caves tour we take a break at the magnificent Waitomo Caes visitor complex.
Continue in the afternoon to Auckland, through the beautiful King Country and Waikato regions.
Day 9: Transfer to the airport for your departing flight, or we can arrange for you to explore more of the country.
© Kiwi Travel NZ 2019
