Day 01 – Arrive Auckland
Welcome to New Zealand! A Tours representative will greet you at the airport with transport waiting to take you to your hotel.
Overnight accommodation: 1 Night –4 and a half stars - Rydges Hotel
Day 02 – Auckland / Bay of Islands
Cross Auckland’s distinctive Harbour Bridge to drive north to Paihia in the Bay of Islands. Here we meet our local Maori guide, a descendant of the original settlers to the region, who will provide an insight and history of the Bay of Islands before a visit to New Zealand’s birthplace, Waitangi. Enjoy a launch cruise to the Cape Brett Lighthouse and famous “Hole in the Rock”, located at the very northern tip of Cape Brett in the Bay of Islands. (B,D)
Overnight accommodation: 2 Nights – 4 stars - Tanoa Hotel Paihia
Day 03 – Bay of Islands
Today is at your leisure, take the time to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Bay of Islands. Your Coach Captain will happily assist with arranging activities for you. Why not try a full day tour to Cape Reinga, New Zealand’s northern most point and Ninety Mile Beach. Alternatively, explore historic Russell, New Zealand’s first settlement. (B,D)
Overnight accommodation: 4 stars - Tanoa Hotel Paihia
Day 04 – Bay of Islands / Rotorua
Today we travel south to Auckland. We pay a visit to the summit of Skytower, at 328m the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere, for panoramic views across the city and its two harbours, the Domain and the central city area. Continuing on our journey, we approach the Bombay Hills which lie at the southern boundary of the Auckland region and serve as a divide between Auckland and the Waikato region, before crossing the bush clad Mamaku Ranges to Rotorua, known as the centre of Maori culture in New Zealand. (B,D)
Overnight accommodation: 2 Nights – 4 stars Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua
Day 05 – Rotorua
Visit the Agrodome to see a display featuring New Zealand’s various sheep breeds and sheep shearing. Explore Rainbow Springs Wildlife Park, a truly unique experience, set in 22 acres of beautiful native trees and streams and home to a huge variety of New Zealand’s most precious inhabitants. Spot native birds and animals including the Kiwi. The Skyline Gondola offers superb views and for a little excitement try a Luge ride with our compliments. There will be time this afternoon for optional activities. This evening enjoy a traditional Maori hangi (meal) followed by a concert featuring Maori songs, chants and the stirring haka. (B,D)
Overnight accommodation: Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua
Day 06 – Rotorua / Napier / Masterton
Departing Rotorua, we visit the Huka Falls where the Waikato River pours through a narrow chasm and pause at Lake Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand. Continue to the Hawkes Bay region, known for its award-winning wines, and Napier, a town famous for its themed buildings and known as the Art Deco capital of the world. Pass through Hastings for an afternoon stop at Mangatainoka, home to Tui Brewery, before continuing on to Masterton for the night. (B,D)
Overnight accommodation: 1 Night- 4 and a half stars - Copthorne Hotel & Resort Solway Park
Day 07 – Masterton / Wellington
Today we travel south over the Rimutaka ranges into the Capital city, Wellington. A city tour includes the summit of Mount Victoria where you can enjoy a panoramic overview of the harbour, the city centre, and the nearby suburbs. The tour also visits the Houses of Parliament and distinctive “Beehive”, Wellington Cathedral, the central city and business area and Oriental Bay. (B,D)
Overnight accommodation: 1 Night – 4 star - Bay Plaza Hotel
Day 08 – Wellington / Home
Today is goodbye to all your new found friends before you make your homeward journey. You will be transferred to Wellington Airport to join your flight home. (B)
