Northern Experience-Wellington to Auckland

Your itinerary

Day 1 Wed: Wellington

On arrival in Wellington you will be transferred to your hotel. This afternoon explore Wellington on a sightseeing tour featuring views from Mount Victoria and free time at Te Papa, New Zealand's National Museum. Te Papa allows you to experience the warmth and vibrancy of Maori culture. See the magnificent contemporary Marae (meeting house) and explore interactive displays depicting modern New Zealand and pre European history. Tonight enjoy a welcome drink with your Tour Director.

Accommodation: Novotel Capital, Wellington.

Day 2 Thu: Rotorua

Today travel to Taupo and see the thundering Huka Falls, before continuing to Rotorua. Tonight enjoy a special evening featuring a Maori concert and Hangi feast including traditional dances, music and entertainment.

Accommodation: Millennium Hotel, Rotorua, 2 nights. (B) (HD)

Day 3 Fri: Rotorua sightseeing

Our day begins with a ride on the Skyline Gondola and breakfast with sparkling wine overlooking Rotorua. We also visit Paradise Valley Springs and take an entertaining look at farm life at the Agrodome's Sheep Show. Later, tour Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve where a local Maori guide escorts us past pools of boiling mud and geysers. We also view Kiwis here. This afternoon there is free time for you to relax, explore or join an optional tour (see your Tour Director for details). (B)

Day 4 Sat: Auckland

Explore the famous Waitomo Caves on a guided tour and a boat trip through the incredible Glow-worm Grotto, then journey north to Auckland. This evening is at leisure.

Accommodation: Stamford Plaza, Auckland. (B)

Day 5 Sun: Auckland - Bay of Islands

Cross the Auckland Harbour Bridge, then take in the amazing scenery of the Hibiscus Coast. Walk amongst the Kauri trees at Parry Kauri Park, then   journey to the Bay of Islands. Enjoy 'Walking with the Descendants', a guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty Reserve. The Waitangi Treaty Reserve has great historical importance, as this is where New Zealand's founding document, the Treaty of Waitangi, was signed. A descendant of the Chiefs who signed the Treaty in 1840 will personally guide you taking in highlights such as the magnificent Maori War Canoe and meeting house.

Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel & Resort, Bay of Islands, 2 nights. (B)

Day 6 Mon: Bay of Islands

Today is free for you to experience the beauty of the Bay of Islands at your own pace - perhaps take a coach trip to Cape Reinga, via idyllic Ninety Mile Beach; enjoy a guided sea-kayaking trip or a day of sailing. Tonight is at leisure - why not try the delicious cuisine in a local restaurant? (B)

Day 7 Tue: Bay of Islands - Auckland

This morning take a scenic cruise through game fishing waters to Cape Brett and, weather permitting, through the famous 'Hole in the Rock' formation. The return cruise to Paihia meanders through picturesque islands - see deserted sandy beaches and secluded bays and keep your eyes out for marine life. This afternoon enjoy the lush farmland scenery as you return to Auckland. (B)

Day 8 Wed: Depart Auckland

Your tour concludes today after breakfast. You will be transferred to Auckland Airport for your onward flight. (B)

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