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Similar itineraries
  • 1. Auckland to Wellington food & wine trail, Staying in Hotel 4 star
  • 2. Cities, Volcanoes and Vineyards Luxury Tour, Staying in Luxury Lodges & hotels
  • 3. North Island 11 day Highlights, Staying in Motels

North Island Spectacular

North Island Self Drive, Auckland to Wellington

NZ$4,375 from per person twin share, low season
Tour map
Included in this journey you'll find:
  • 12 nights Boutique lodges & hotels accommodation
  • 3 dinners
  • All breakfasts
  • Private airport transfers
  • Discover the Bay Hole in the Rock cruise
  • Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach day tour
  • Mitai Maori Village Concert & Buffet Dinner
  • Lake Tarawera and the buried village by floatplane
  • Waitomo Glow Worm Caves
  • A superb range of rental cars to choose from
  • Rental car insurance with full coverage (variable excess/deductible)
  • Unlimited kilometres, GPS navigation, airport and ferry fees
  • Comprehensive tour pack on arrival
Send enquiry
See prices

A comprehensive North Island tour exploring from Cape Reinga in the north,  to the charming capital city of Wellington in the south. Along the way you’ll have travel at a relaxed pace and experience welcoming hospitality as some of the best boutique lodges.  Highlights include the Bay of Islands cruise, Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach tour. In Rotorua you’ll take a tour by float plane to the Waimangu Valley and enjoy a visit to Mitai Maori Village including dinner.

This itinerary can be customised or we can tailor-make something to suit you perfectly.

Similar itineraries  
  • 1. Auckland to Wellington food & wine trail, Staying in Hotel 4 star
  • 2. Cities, Volcanoes and Vineyards Luxury Tour, Staying in Luxury Lodges & hotels
  • 3. North Island 11 day Highlights, Staying in Motels
 
Day 1 - Welcome to Auckland, you'll be transferred to your accommodation and have the rest of the day to explore

Personal meet and greet, and private transfer to your accommodation

On arrival you will be met by one of our team and driven to your Auckland accommodation.

Your tour documentation pack and support

North Island Spectacular - day 1
North Island Spectacular - day 1
North Island Spectacular - day 1
North Island Spectacular - day 1

Once you touch down in New Zealand your detailed tour pack will be hand delivered by one of our trusted representatives. The pack contains everything you need for the duration of your stay. It will include a comprehensive, printed and bound version of your itinerary as well as clear driving instructions and maps for each leg of your journey. It also contains all the reservation details for your accommodation and activities - along with relevant brochures and information. While in New Zealand we offer 24 hour support - details on how to contact us at any time will be well documented.

Welcome to Auckland City

North Island Spectacular - day 1
North Island Spectacular - day 1
North Island Spectacular - day 1
North Island Spectacular - day 1

Auckland, New Zealand’s self-proclaimed ‘City of Sails’ is the country’s largest metro area. Resting between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, this urban paradise has something for everyone. Surrounded by native bush, rainforests and an abundance of beaches, Auckland is a playground for both the city savvy and those with an eye for adventure. Explore the central museums and galleries on foot, or take a drive through one of over 800 regional National Parks to see deserted beaches, waterfalls and native forest.

Fullers Auckland Harbour Cruise - suggested

North Island Spectacular - day 1
North Island Spectacular - day 1
North Island Spectacular - day 1
North Island Spectacular - day 1

Today Cruise the sparkling waters of Aucklands Waitemata Harbour. You'll learn about the most well-known city landmarks, including a stopover on dormant volcano Rangitoto. You'll see spectacular views of the Harbour Bridge, the city skyline and Devonport's historic naval base as well as enjoying the Bean Rock Lighthouse with a complimentary hot drink and sandwich.

Accommodation: Great Ponsonby Art Hotel B&B

Accommodation type: Boutique lodges & hotels

Accommodation: Great Ponsonby Art Hotel B&B
Accommodation: Great Ponsonby Art Hotel B&B
Accommodation: Great Ponsonby Art Hotel B&B
Accommodation: Great Ponsonby Art Hotel B&B
Accommodation features
  • Check in time: 2 pm
  • Check out time: 10 am
  • Parking: onsite free parking
  • Internet facilities: In room free access
  • Includes continental breakfast
  • Includes cooked breakfast
  • Bar on site
  • Hairdryer
  • All rooms non smoking
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Day 2 - Collect your car this morning then travel north to Russell in the Bay of Islands

Collect your rental car

North Island Spectacular - day 2
North Island Spectacular - day 2
North Island Spectacular - day 2
North Island Spectacular - day 2

This tour can be priced with any of the rental cars available in our fantastic range, from economy hatchbacks to prestige saloons and SUV's.

GPS navigation system

Use the latest GPS technology as you tour New Zealand. Your portable GPS features a simple touch screen interface with automatic route calculation and turn-by-turn voice-prompted directions including street name announcement. The automotive-grade GPS unit is easy to use and has multiple language options.

Auckland to Russell, Bay of Islands

North Island Spectacular - day 2
North Island Spectacular - day 2
North Island Spectacular - day 2
North Island Spectacular - day 2

The drive from Auckland to the Bay of Islands normally takes around three and a half hours - but plan to take a little longer for there are many things to see along the way. Stretch your legs in Puhoi, New Zealand's only Bohemian settlement. Go through Warkworth, and Whangarei and see the world famous hundertwasser toilets in Kawakawa. Arriving into Russell via the Opua Ferry, you'll be greeted by lush bush-clad hillsides dropping to golden sandy beaches

Driving Information:

Approximate distance and time for todays driving leg is: 230 kms / 143 miles : 3.3 hours

Accommodation: Arcadia Lodge, Russell

Accommodation type: Boutique lodges & hotels

Meals included: Breakfast

Accommodation: Arcadia Lodge, Russell
Accommodation: Arcadia Lodge, Russell
Accommodation: Arcadia Lodge, Russell
Accommodation: Arcadia Lodge, Russell
Accommodation features
  • Check in time: 3 pm
  • Check out time: 11 am
  • Walk time to shops/restaurants: 2-5 mins
  • Internet facilities: In room free access
  • Includes continental breakfast
  • Includes cooked breakfast
  • Hairdryer
  • All rooms non smoking
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Day 3 - Cruise through the Bay of Islands and if time allows you could visit Waitangi this afternoon

Explore the Bay of Islands

North Island Spectacular - day 3
North Island Spectacular - day 3
North Island Spectacular - day 3
North Island Spectacular - day 3

Commonly known as the ‘winterless north’ New Zealand’s Bay of Islands is made up of over 140 subtropical atolls. Renowned for its untouched beaches, abundant marine life and idyllic climate, this tropical paradise ticks all the boxes. Spend some time on a remote stretch of beach, or cool off during a ‘swim with dolphins’ ocean safari. If diving is your thing, take the morning to descend the Rainbow Warrior - The Greenpeace flagship sunk by French saboteurs in 1985. Wander around Russell, a whaling port founded in 1843. Learn about our culture in historic Waitangi, the site where The Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between the Maori and European settlers dictating the terms by which New Zealand would become a British colony. Take a travel day to Cape Reinga, the very top of the North Island.

Dolphin Cruise to Hole in the Rock with Fullers GreatSights

North Island Spectacular - day 3
North Island Spectacular - day 3
North Island Spectacular - day 3
North Island Spectacular - day 3

Board your cruise and take in the stunning views as you glide out through the islands and along the Rakaumangamanga Peninsula to Cape Brett, where a historic lighthouse keeps watch over and Piercy Island/Motukōkako, or as it is popularly known the ‘Hole in the Rock’. According to Māori legend, local warriors used to paddle through the Hole in the Rock in their canoes before departing for battle. Drops of water from the cave roof above were a good omen. If conditions permit, your skipper will expertly guide the ship through the narrow space. Keep an eye out for common and bottlenose dolphins, whales and other marine life during your cruise, and have your camera ready as you get up close to the action. The purpose-built catamaran is licensed by DOC (the Department of Conservation) for dolphin viewing and the crew have years of experience locating dolphins in these waters. Dolphin Seeker has indoor and outdoor seating available, and the largest outdoor viewing decks in the Bay of Islands.

Waitangi Treaty Grounds Guided Tour and Cultural Performance - suggested

North Island Spectacular - day 3
North Island Spectacular - day 3
North Island Spectacular - day 3
North Island Spectacular - day 3

Waitangi is one of New Zealand's most historic sites where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between the local Maori and the British Government. This two day pass allows you access to the Treaty of Waitangi Grounds and includes admission to the Museum of Waitangi, a guided tour and a Maori Cultural performance. During your guided tour, you'll learn about the history of the treaty and discover the stories and events that shaped New Zealand. The cultural performance inside the carved meeting house includes waiata (singing), poi, a display of Maori weaponry and the haka - a war dance New Zealand is known for.

Accommodation: Arcadia Lodge, Russell

Accommodation type: Boutique lodges & hotels

Meals included: Breakfast

Accommodation: Arcadia Lodge, Russell
Accommodation: Arcadia Lodge, Russell
Accommodation: Arcadia Lodge, Russell
Accommodation: Arcadia Lodge, Russell
Accommodation features
  • Check in time: 3 pm
  • Check out time: 11 am
  • Walk time to shops/restaurants: 2-5 mins
  • Internet facilities: In room free access
  • Includes continental breakfast
  • Includes cooked breakfast
  • Hairdryer
  • All rooms non smoking
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Day 4 - Full day tour to Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach

Dune Rider to Cape Reinga with Explore

North Island Spectacular - day 4
North Island Spectacular - day 4
North Island Spectacular - day 4
North Island Spectacular - day 4

This full day tour in the unique Dune Rider vehicle is the best way to explore the Far North. Let the driver immerse you in the culture and history of the area, while taking in the amazing scenery. The Dune Rider vehicle is purpose built to go off-road in comfort with air conditioning, reclining seats, plenty of leg room and sloping floors for great viewing. Your full day tour begins with an early morning pick up at your accommodation, and includes a freshly prepared buffet style lunch, a visit to Cape Reinga lighthouse to view the meeting of the two oceans, a beach stop on 90 Mile Beach, boogie boarding down huge sand dunes at Te Paki stream and time at the Ancient Kauri Kingdom.

Driving Information:

Approximate distance and time for todays driving leg is: 0 kms / 0 miles : 0.0 hours

Accommodation: Arcadia Lodge, Russell

Accommodation type: Boutique lodges & hotels

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Arcadia Lodge, Russell
Accommodation: Arcadia Lodge, Russell
Accommodation: Arcadia Lodge, Russell
Accommodation: Arcadia Lodge, Russell
Accommodation features
  • Check in time: 3 pm
  • Check out time: 11 am
  • Walk time to shops/restaurants: 2-5 mins
  • Internet facilities: In room free access
  • Includes continental breakfast
  • Includes cooked breakfast
  • Hairdryer
  • All rooms non smoking
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Day 5 - Cross Northland following the aqua blue waters of the Hokianga before travelling down the Kauri Coast

Bay of Islands to Mangawhai via Waipoua

North Island Spectacular - day 5
North Island Spectacular - day 5
North Island Spectacular - day 5
North Island Spectacular - day 5

Heading west from the Bay of Islands you leave the Pacific Ocean and soon and arrive into the Hokianga and the wilder seas of the Tasman. The small townships of Omapere and Opononi have a great seaside feel and the perfect place to stop for an ice cream. The route now heads south and into the Waipoua Forest, home to the massive Kauri trees. Make sure you allow time to take a few short walks that are signposted as you pass through the region. Not to be missed is the 5 minute loop to view the largest of all the trees Tane Mahuta.  Heading back across country the Matakohe Kauri Museum is an award winning museum and has extensive displays of the regions logging, farming and social history.   As you leave the Kaipara Harbour behind you'll head east to the seaside destination Mangawhai, home to beautiful beaches, vineyards and olive groves.

Driving Information:

Approximate distance and time for todays driving leg is: 264 kms / 164 miles : 3.4 hours

Accommodation: Mangawhai Lodge Bed and Breakfast

Accommodation type: Bed & breakfast (B&B)

Meals included: Breakfast

Accommodation: Mangawhai Lodge Bed and Breakfast
Accommodation: Mangawhai Lodge Bed and Breakfast
Accommodation: Mangawhai Lodge Bed and Breakfast
Accommodation: Mangawhai Lodge Bed and Breakfast
Accommodation features
  • Check in time: 2 pm
  • Check out time: 10 am
  • Walk time to shops/restaurants: 10-15 mins
  • Parking: onsite free parking
  • Internet facilities: In room free access
  • Includes cooked breakfast
  • Tea/coffee facilities in room
  • Hairdryer
  • All rooms non smoking
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Day 6 - Pass through Auckland and the Hauraki Plains before the coastal climb to the Coromandel Peninsula

Mangawhai to Coromandel Township and Kuaotunu

North Island Spectacular - day 6
North Island Spectacular - day 6
North Island Spectacular - day 6
North Island Spectacular - day 6

Leaving the idyllic Mangawhai region behind you head south on State Highway 1 back towards Auckland, the city of sails. The route takes you through the farming regions of Wellsford and Warkworth. Pass through the suburbs of the North Shore before crossing the harbour bridge and into the heart of Auckland City. Once you leave the city boundaries the landscape changes to rolling lush farmland. The fertile Hauraki Plains are one of New Zealand's largest dairy producing regions. The Thames Estuary is a haven for wildlife in particular shore birds and a short detour to Miranda (well sign posted) is worthwhile to see the large flocks of godwits and oyster catchers amongst others. Arriving into the old gold town of Thames follow the scenic route north to Coromandel Township along the Pohutukawa Coast (part of the Pacific Coast Highway). This is one of the most spectacular drives in the region and not to be missed. Coromandel Township was named after HMS Coromandel which visited the bay in 1820 to collect spars. Although the timber trade was providing the towns inhabitants with work in the early 1800's, it was the gold rush of the 1850's that contributed to the towns success and growth. The first gold strike, by Charles Ring, in 1852 was short lived when it was discovered the precious metal had to be hacked from rock with hand tools. Later in 1869 alluvial gold was found at Tokatea Hill and the boom started in earnest. The population soared to a staggering 10, 000 people compare with today's estimate of just 1,400. Old buildings from these pioneering times can still be seen in the picturesque little town and there is also a gold mining museum. Craft shops and cafes also line the street. About 3 kilometres north is Driving Creek Railway, a narrow gauge track that can take you into the heart of the Coromandel and its regenerating kauri forest.  From Coromandel you head east to the small holiday settlement of Kuaotunu.

Driving Creek Railway & Potteries - EyeFull Tower Tour - suggested

North Island Spectacular - day 6
North Island Spectacular - day 6
North Island Spectacular - day 6
North Island Spectacular - day 6

Driving Creek Railway and Potteries has become a Coromandel icon. The dream of Barry Brickell was to establish a pottery workshop on his land. Using a railway he would have access to the clay on the land and the pine kiln fuel. Over the next 15 years the railway developed until in 1990 it was finally licensed to carry fare paying passengers and ever since thousands of visitors have made the trip to Coromandel to experience this unique attraction. The 1 hour return train trip on the innovatively designed trains takes you through replanted native kauri forest and includes 2 spirals, 3 short tunnels, 5 reversing points and several large viaducts as it climbs up to the mountain-top terminus. The pottery is still producing and you can watch the artists at work as well as purchase items.

Driving Information:

Approximate distance and time for todays driving leg is: 295 kms / 183 miles : 4.1 hours

Accommodation: Kuaotunu Bay Lodge

Accommodation type: Boutique lodges & hotels

Meals included: Breakfast

Accommodation: Kuaotunu Bay Lodge
Accommodation: Kuaotunu Bay Lodge
Accommodation: Kuaotunu Bay Lodge
Accommodation: Kuaotunu Bay Lodge
Accommodation features
  • Check in time: 3 pm
  • Check out time: 11 am
  • Parking: onsite free parking
  • Internet facilities: In room free access
  • Includes continental breakfast
  • Includes cooked breakfast
  • Tea/coffee facilities in room
  • Hairdryer
  • All rooms non smoking
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Day 7 - Drive south to Tairua exploring the Coromandel coast as you go

Kuaotunu to Tairua

North Island Spectacular - day 7
North Island Spectacular - day 7
North Island Spectacular - day 7
North Island Spectacular - day 7

Heading down the east coast you pass through the town of Whitianga and from here you can take the small foot ferry over to Cooks Beach and Flaxmill Bay. A little further south is the famous Hot Water Beach and the holiday town of Hahei. Cathedral Cove is a popular walk and is well worth the effort to view the massive limestone formation aptly named on the golden sand beach. Tairua is also a great location and Paku Hill offers spectacular views over the natural harbour and the Pacific Ocean.

Coves, Caves and Coastline Cruise from Whitianga - suggested

North Island Spectacular - day 7
North Island Spectacular - day 7
North Island Spectacular - day 7
North Island Spectacular - day 7

Explore the volcanic coastline with its many caves, blowholes and golden beaches all from the comfort and safety of an ex coastguard 28 ft cruiser. Departing from Whitianga Wharf journey past the towering Shakespeare's Cliffs and historic Cooks Beach. Visit Cathedral Cove and the islands in the marine reserve. There is also a chance to swim with the abundant fish in the reserve (on board snorkel gear provided - dont forget your swimsuit and towel). For those who prefer to stay dry an underwater camera relays images to an onboard TV.

Driving Information:

Approximate distance and time for todays driving leg is: 56 kms / 35 miles : 0.9 hours

Accommodation: Grand Mercure Puka Park Resort

Accommodation type: Hotel 4 star

Meals included: Breakfast

Accommodation: Grand Mercure Puka Park Resort
Accommodation: Grand Mercure Puka Park Resort
Accommodation: Grand Mercure Puka Park Resort
Accommodation: Grand Mercure Puka Park Resort
Accommodation features
  • Check in time: 2 pm
  • Check out time: 11 am
  • Parking: onsite free parking
  • Internet facilities: On site free access
  • Restaurant on site
  • Bar on site
  • Tea/coffee facilities in room
  • Hairdryer
  • Laundry facilities: Drycleaning service available
  • Swimming pool
  • Gym/fitness centre
  • All rooms non smoking
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Day 8 - Cross country to Waitomo where you'll visit the famous Glow Worm Caves

Tairua to Waitomo

North Island Spectacular - day 8
North Island Spectacular - day 8
North Island Spectacular - day 8
North Island Spectacular - day 8

From Tairua you continue south and then cross the Coromandel Ranges before heading south through the township of Paeroa now famous as the original home  to the 'world famous in New Zealand' beverage L&P. Continue across the lush Waikato countryside skirting the city of Hamilton before arriving into Otorohanga, the 'kiwiana' capital of New Zealand. Otorohanga is also home to a Kiwi House and native bird park which hosts the largest collection of native birds and animals in the country.  Just a short drive south delivers you to Waitomo and its labyrinth of caves and canyons.

Waitomo Glow Worm Caves

North Island Spectacular - day 8
North Island Spectacular - day 8
North Island Spectacular - day 8
North Island Spectacular - day 8

Explore a 30 million year old cave network spread across three levels. You'll travel deep underground through the limestone caves viewing stalactites and stalagmites as well as and hearing about the caves historical and geological significance. You'll then hop into a boat and glide silently through the glow worm grotto - a galaxy of tiny living lights.

Driving Information:

Approximate distance and time for todays driving leg is: 185 kms / 115 miles : 2.4 hours

Accommodation: Kamahi Cottage

Accommodation type: Boutique lodges & hotels

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Kamahi Cottage
Accommodation: Kamahi Cottage
Accommodation: Kamahi Cottage
Accommodation: Kamahi Cottage
Accommodation features
  • Check in time: 2 pm
  • Check out time: 11 am
  • Walk time to shops/restaurants: 30 mins +
  • Parking: onsite free parking
  • Internet facilities: On site free access
  • Includes continental breakfast
  • Includes cooked breakfast
  • Dinner service available
  • Bar on site
  • Tea/coffee facilities in room
  • Kitchen/kitchenette in room
  • Room service available
  • Hairdryer
  • Laundry facilities: On site
  • All rooms non smoking
  • Apartments serviced weekly
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Day 9 - Drive Waitomo to Rotorua and this evening visit Mitai Maori Village.

Waitomo to Rotorua

North Island Spectacular - day 9
North Island Spectacular - day 9
North Island Spectacular - day 9
North Island Spectacular - day 9

Today cross the lush farmland of the Waikato as you make your way inland to Rotorua. Pass through several small farming towns such as Otorohanga and Putaruru, before the region’s geothermal activity signals your arrival into the city of Rotorua.

Mitai Maori Village

North Island Spectacular - day 9
North Island Spectacular - day 9
North Island Spectacular - day 9
North Island Spectacular - day 9

An evening at Mitai will give you an awe-inspiring introduction to the indigenous Maori culture. Marvel at the beautiful bush setting and see warriors in traditional dress who paddle an ancient warrior canoe (waka) down the Wai-o-whiro stream while trout and eels swim beneath the surface. 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. Be captivated by the displays of weaponry and combat and be amazed by the spine tingling Haka finale. Truly an experience to remember.

Driving Information:

Approximate distance and time for todays driving leg is: 139 kms / 86 miles : 1.9 hours

Accommodation: The Springs Rotorua

Accommodation type: Boutique lodges & hotels

Meals included: Breakfast, Speciality Dinner

Accommodation: The Springs Rotorua
Accommodation: The Springs Rotorua
Accommodation: The Springs Rotorua
Accommodation: The Springs Rotorua
Accommodation features
  • Check in time: 3 pm
  • Check out time: 10 am
  • Walk time to shops/restaurants: 20-30 mins
  • Parking: onsite free parking
  • Internet facilities: In room free access
  • Includes continental breakfast
  • Includes cooked breakfast
  • Hairdryer
  • All rooms non smoking
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Day 10 - Take a very special scenic flight over the Rotorua Lakes with a landing at the Buried Village

Explore Rotorua

North Island Spectacular - day 10
North Island Spectacular - day 10
North Island Spectacular - day 10
North Island Spectacular - day 10

Peppered with natural hot springs, boiling mud pools and steaming geysers, Rotorua sits within one of the worlds most active volcanic regions. But geothermal landmarks aside, this city of sulphur has a rich indigenous history. Home to several prominent Maori tribes, a visit to the Mitai Maori Village should be high on your agenda, as should an excursion to the Polynesian Spa for an invigorating soak in its natural mineral hot springs.
Live on the edge when you hop aboard a helicopter bound for White Island, New Zealand’s most active volcano. Spike your adrenaline at Agroventures on stomach-dropping attractions such as static skydiving, or a giant swing reaching 130 km per hour. Go up the Gondola for soaring lake views, and ride the luge at night for an extra thrill.
Fans of Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit should drive to nearby Matamata and experience the actual movie set ‘Hobbiton’. Make the most of your time in Rotorua with an excursion through the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, one of the area’s most colourful volcanic attractions.

Mount Tarawera Fly Drive Combo by Floatplane

North Island Spectacular - day 10
North Island Spectacular - day 10
North Island Spectacular - day 10
North Island Spectacular - day 10

Combine the experience of a 4WD hiking tour on Mount Tarawera by Kaitiaki Adventures. Your journey begins with an off road 4WD experience through native New Zealand bush, transporting you to the craters edge. After a 1.5-2 hour hike your 4WD will drop you at the remote shores of Lake Rerewhakaaitu when you will return to Rotorua by Floatplane. Enjoy a spectacular aerial overview of the Waimangu Volcanic Valley, Mount Tarawera and our hidden lakes district. This stunning flight completes the Tarawera experience and returns you to your departure point on the shores of Lake Rotorua at our downtown city floatplane pier.

Rainbow Springs and Behind the Scenes Kiwi Encounter - suggested

North Island Spectacular - day 10
North Island Spectacular - day 10
North Island Spectacular - day 10
North Island Spectacular - day 10

At Rainbow Springs you'll have the chance to see some of New Zealand's native flora and fauna within the majestic forests of Rotorua. Wander the beautiful tree-lined park and take in the flourishing bush, ferns, flowers and plants. Come face to face with, and learn more about, New Zealand’s precious wildlife. See the spring-fed pool with rainbow, brown and tiger trout, then visit the on-site aviaries - home to New Zealand species such kea, kaka, tui, kereru and kiwi. The tuatara, known as New Zealand's living dinosaur can also be seen here.
Go behind the scenes with New Zealand's national animal at the purpose built Kiwi Conservation Centre - created solely to try and stop the extinction of this unique species. Here you will gain first hand insight into the conservation efforts being made to increase the numbers of kiwi eggs being hatched and returned to the wild.

Rotorua Canopy Tours: The Original Canopy Tour - suggested

North Island Spectacular - day 10
North Island Spectacular - day 10
North Island Spectacular - day 10
North Island Spectacular - day 10

Embark on a three hour adventure through native New Zealand forest. Journey through the beautiful forest canopy via an incredible network of trails, tree platforms, Ziplines and swing bridges. See breathtaking views of the woodland valleys and hills as you fly through tight openings in the trees.
In between the thrill of the ziplines and suspended tree bridges, your guides will share their passion and knowledge for the forest and the conservation challenges to preserve it. 

Accommodation: The Springs Rotorua

Accommodation type: Boutique lodges & hotels

Meals included: Breakfast

Accommodation: The Springs Rotorua
Accommodation: The Springs Rotorua
Accommodation: The Springs Rotorua
Accommodation: The Springs Rotorua
Accommodation features
  • Check in time: 3 pm
  • Check out time: 10 am
  • Walk time to shops/restaurants: 20-30 mins
  • Parking: onsite free parking
  • Internet facilities: In room free access
  • Includes continental breakfast
  • Includes cooked breakfast
  • Hairdryer
  • All rooms non smoking
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Day 11 - Today is filled with fantastic scenery including Lake Taupo, the Desert Road and the Kapiti Coastline as you approach Wellington

Rotorua to Wellington

North Island Spectacular - day 11
North Island Spectacular - day 11
North Island Spectacular - day 11
North Island Spectacular - day 11

The drive from Rotorua to Wellington takes you via the township of Taupo home to New Zealand’s largest lake. Following the lakeshore South you’ll pass Turani and then ascend the central plateau onto the high country Rangipo Desert. Skirting the edge of Tongariro National Park, you’ll reach the military town of Waiouru before descending through rich farmland and the rural towns of Taihape And Mangaweka. Follow the coast through Paraparaumu, Paekakariki and Plimmerton to arrive at your destination, Wellington.

Driving Information:

Approximate distance and time for todays driving leg is: 452 kms / 280 miles : 5.6 hours

Accommodation: Bolton Hotel Wellington

Accommodation type: Hotel 4 star

Meals included: Breakfast

Accommodation: Bolton Hotel Wellington
Accommodation: Bolton Hotel Wellington
Accommodation: Bolton Hotel Wellington
Accommodation: Bolton Hotel Wellington
Accommodation features
  • Check in time: 3 pm
  • Check out time: 11 am
  • Walk time to shops/restaurants: 2-5 mins
  • Parking: valet paid parking NZ$20-NZ$30 per 24 hrs
  • Internet facilities: In room free access
  • Restaurant on site
  • Breakfast service available
  • Tea/coffee facilities in room
  • Kitchen/kitchenette in room
  • Hairdryer
  • Swimming pool
  • Gym/fitness centre
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Day 12 - Uncover the charms of Wellington City, including the quirky cafes and fascinating museums

Wellington City

North Island Spectacular - day 12
North Island Spectacular - day 12
North Island Spectacular - day 12
North Island Spectacular - day 12

Wellington, home to New Zealand’s centre of government has a largely cosmopolitan feel. Often referred to as ‘mini-Melbourne’, this (self described) windy city is a melting pot of art, culture, food and fashion. Quirky laneway bars, underground art shows, and hipster eateries make up its inner city vibe, while a host of sandy beaches outside the urban bustle bring a cheerful holiday feel.

Head to Te Papa Museum for a history lesson and a ticket to one of its many international exhibitions or jump aboard the Wellington Cable Car at Lambton Quay - the only running funicular railway in the country. For those with an eye for boutique fashion wander through Cuba St to sample some of the city's best vintage stores. Break for coffee at a hipster cafe and be sure to snap a pic outside the ‘Beehive,’ New Zealand’s parliamentary debate chamber.

Go behind the scenes at Weta Workshop, the Oscar Award Winning design studio behind Lord Of The Rings, The Hobbit, and Avatar. We recommend a 45 minute guided tour through both the Workshop and Weta Cave. If you're a foodie at heart, a two hour round trip to Martinborough is a must do. Take your time as you wind through spectacular wine country, and be sure to stop in at Martinborough Wines or Ata Rangi Martinborough. For a educational day out, learn about New Zealand's native species at Zealandia - the world's first fully fenced eco-sanctuary and home to over 40 types of endangered and native birds.

City Highlights Inspiration Half Day Tour - suggested

North Island Spectacular - day 12
North Island Spectacular - day 12
North Island Spectacular - day 12
North Island Spectacular - day 12

Enjoy an intimate small group tour looking at the unique aspects of the World's Coolest Little Capital. Drive through Courtenay Place and Oriental Parade and head up Mt Victoria for spectacular views of the City and Harbour. Then travel the stunning rugged coastline, now a marine reserve, stopping along the way to taste some famous Wellington coffee. Return to the central city for a drive through the quirky Cuba Street district and along Lambton Quay, the main shopping street for a chance to ride the famous Wellington Cable Car.

Zealandia Wildlife Sanctuary Night Tour - suggested

North Island Spectacular - day 12
North Island Spectacular - day 12
North Island Spectacular - day 12
North Island Spectacular - day 12

Taking a night tour of Zealandia wildlife eco-sanctuary is an unforgettable experience and one that comes highly recommended. A conservation success and safe haven for some of New Zealand's rarest native animals, Zealandia is home to many remarkable species of birds, reptiles and insects living wild within a beautiful 225 hectare (one square mile) valley - just 10 minutes from the central city.

Your tour begins with an interactive exhibition before you walk through the gates of Zealandia predator-exclusion fence into the sanctuary. Your guide will then lead you on a torch-light walk through the native New Zealand bush. Possible sights include Kiwi foraging on the forest floor, tuatara hunting for food, glowworms shining, tiny Maud Island frogs in their enclosure, pateke (brown teal) ducks feeding at night and kaka (parrots) coming in to roost.

Zealandia is one of the best places to see kiwi in the wild. Over 100 of these nocturnal birds live freely in their natural environment inside the safety of the sanctuary valley - so your chances of seeing one is very good.

Accommodation: Bolton Hotel Wellington

Accommodation type: Hotel 4 star

Meals included: Breakfast

Accommodation: Bolton Hotel Wellington
Accommodation: Bolton Hotel Wellington
Accommodation: Bolton Hotel Wellington
Accommodation: Bolton Hotel Wellington
Accommodation features
  • Check in time: 3 pm
  • Check out time: 11 am
  • Walk time to shops/restaurants: 2-5 mins
  • Parking: valet paid parking NZ$20-NZ$30 per 24 hrs
  • Internet facilities: In room free access
  • Restaurant on site
  • Breakfast service available
  • Tea/coffee facilities in room
  • Kitchen/kitchenette in room
  • Hairdryer
  • Swimming pool
  • Gym/fitness centre
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Day 13 - Depart Wellington today.

Depart Wellington today

Choose to explore more of Wellington's sights before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.

Driving Information:

Approximate distance and time for todays driving leg is: 6 kms / 4 miles : 0.1 hours

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