Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Inspiring North Island Tours
Auckland to Wellington
Breadcrumb
New Zealand tour itinerary name and information
Great Journeys of New Zealand

Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Inspiring North Island Tours

Join us on this luxurious scenic experience through the North Island passing mountain peaks, icy rivers, and engineering marvels. This adventure is an enviable trip designed for those who want a stress-free, scenic journey like no other. Meet like-minded travellers while experiencing world-class activities in charming locations. Explore the bioluminescent glow worm caves of Waitomo, discover the natural wonders of Tongariro National Park, cruise along the Tawatahi River on a dinner cruise in Raglan and be captivated by the storytelling of your local tour director along this great journey.

Currency selector
Select your currency to view indicative pricing
Tour summary and feature
Quick Itinerary Details

Guided Coach & Train Tours

This suggested tour costs from NZD$5,239 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Auckland, finishes in Wellington

8 days/7 nights

Hotel 4 star

 Pre and post tour options? YES

 Viewed 126 times in the last 7 days

Tour Inclusions

Hamilton Gardens Guided Tour
Northern Explorer Scenic Train
Raglan Sunset Cruise
Waitomo Glow Worm Caves
Sanctuary Mountain
Mt Ruapehu Sky Waka (Gondola)
Northern Explorer Scenic Train from Tongariro National Park to Wellington
Mt Ruapehu Turoa Excursion
Wellington City Tour
7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners
Tour at a glance

Day 1: Welcome to Auckland
Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 2: Auckland to Hamilton on the Northern Explorer Train
Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 3: Explore Hamilton
Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 4: Hamilton to Tongariro National Park on the Northern Explorer Train
Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 5: Explore Tongariro National Park
Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 6: Tongariro National Park to Wellington on the Northern Explorer Train
Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 7: Explore Wellington
Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 8: Depart Wellington today

Tour full itinerary
Detailed Itinerary
Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Inspiring North Island Tours - Day 1
Explore Auckland

Kia ora! Welcome to Auckland, New Zealand’s City of Sails! Auckland is known for its multi-cultural hub of food, music, arts, and culture. Your great journey will officially begin the moment you check into your hotel room. After reading your welcome letter from your Journey Director, head out and explore all that Auckland has to offer. This is the perfect opportunity to visit the Sky Tower or shop along bustling Queen Street. You may even fancy a drink in one of the charming bars or eateries of Vulcan Lane.
After an exciting day on the town, join your fellow travellers as well as the Journey Director at this evening’s welcome reception.

Your accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Meals included: Dinner
Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Inspiring North Island Tours - Day 2
The Beginning of your Scenic Journey

Your journey awaits as you join the Northern Explorer scenic train. Marvel at rural New Zealand’s lush landscapes from the comfort of your scenic carriage. From the sparkling waters of the Waitemata Harbour to the green pastures of the Waikato – you won’t want to miss a moment.
Arriving in Hamilton, your coach awaits you to bring you to the famous Hamilton Gardens. Surrounded by beauty, you will learn about the history, context, and meaning of each garden.
In the early afternoon, enjoy some free time in the heart of Hamilton before departing for an evening visit to Raglan – a seaside surfer town. It’s here that you’ll enjoy a Sunset Dinner Cruise on the pristine harbour.

Your accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Inspiring North Island Tours - Day 3
Discover Endangered and Bioluminescent Species

This morning you will depart for your next exciting excursion – Maungatautari Sanctuary Mountain. Let your guide transport you into an ancient world of ecological wonders as you explore New Zealand’s very own pest-free environment, within native forest. On this excursion, you will walk through the home of some of New Zealand’s most endangered species. Discover North Island’s robins, tomtits, kākā, pōpokotea, bellbirds, hihi, tīeke, fantails, kereru and wētā. This pre-human paradise has one of the world’s longest pest-proof fences.
Your expedition continues after a lunch stop in New Zealand’s “Kiwiana Capital”, Otorohanga. Make sure you capture a photo of the giant Kiwi birds! Next, discover the famous Waitomo Glow worm Caves and be dazzled by the seemingly star-filled sky as you glide by boat through this impressive cave formation.
Tonight, explore Hamilton's riverside walks and shops on this free evening. Enjoy one of the many nearby restaurants as the sun sets over the Waikato River

Your accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast
Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Inspiring North Island Tours - Day 4
Explore Tongariro National Park

Joining the Northern Explorer train once again, today you’ll soar over icy mountain streams as you travel to Tongariro National Park; the home of three volcanic mountains. Tongariro National Park has a diverse range of ecosystems and spectacular landscapes.  In 1993, it was recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and was the first property to be inscribed with the criteria describing the cultural values it holds in the Māori people.
Enjoy a mini excursion up to Tūroa ski field. Here you'll want to capture a panoramic photo of Middle Earth before descending into Ohakune.
Tonight, enjoy a special dinner with your fellow travellers.

Your accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Inspiring North Island Tours - Day 5
Another day to explore Tongariro National Park

Today is free for you to discover one of the region's exciting excursions. Choose from the many optional activities on offer and personalise your perfect holiday. Perhaps you will hop aboard a rail cart journey or join a horse trekking experience that takes you along expansive hills, mountains, rivers and into the native bush.
If you're after an active day, why not explore Ohakune’s historical cycle trail? Rent e-bikes and discover old viaducts, tunnels, old settlers’ camps and reclaimed native forests along the Old Coach Road.

Your accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast
Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Inspiring North Island Tours - Day 6
Tongariro National Park to Wellington on the Northern Explorer Train

Your day begins with an elevated experience up the northern face of Mt Ruapehu for panoramic views of the volcanic landscape. Drink in the views of Mt Ngāuruhoe, Mt Tongariro, and beyond across the central North Island. Joining the Northern Explorer train once again, you will wave goodbye to Ohakune as you settle into your uber-comfortable seat. Don’t get too comfortable though; dramatic rivers, gorges, and ravines are just around the bend! Stretch your legs and explore the open-air carriage to get the best view on the train. As you glide through rich green farmland and past dramatic coastline, enjoy the picturesque Porirua Harbour as you arrive into Wellington - New Zealand’s windy capital! You’ve arrived at Wellington Railway Station which is just a stone’s throw from downtown, the Beehive and Parliament Buildings. You won't want to waste a moment of time after checking into the hotel - your evening is free to explore this culinary capital from Queen’s Wharf to Cuba street and beyond.

Your accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast
Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Inspiring North Island Tours - Day 7
Explore Wellington

The perfect day does exist – and it includes exploring Wellington! Today is free for you to experience vibrant Wellington as you please. Start by joining our Wellington City introduction tour and then head off to explore Cuba street’s cafes, bookstores, and eccentric shops. Get cultured at the Te Papa Museum or Zealandia to uncover the rich stories of Aotearoa New Zealand. You won’t get bored with the plethora of activities on offer. From urban eco-sanctuary, cable cars, botanical gardens, and more, the list goes on!
Enjoy dinner tonight with your fellow travelers.

Your accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Inspiring North Island Tours - Day 8
Depart Wellington

Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast with your fellow travellers. You will be transferred to Wellington Airport for your departing flight.

Tour quick quote rework

Get an Instant Quote or Book this Tour

Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Inspiring North Island Tours

Step 1:
Step 2: Select number of passengers and room configuration

Enter phone number to get a call from a travel planning expert within in 24 hours

Enter email address to receive your instant quote

Tick this box if you do not wish to receive emails about special offers
No pricing loaded - please choose another date or contact us

Your quote for this tour:

Start date:
End date:
Guests:
Rooms:

Total cost for ALL guests on this tour package is:

NZD$0

or
This quote is based on vehicles to accommodate your party in the vehicle type. We suggest changing the car type or contacting us for the best options.
The package cost above excludes rental vehicle hire as you are requesting a price for a vehicle outside of our designated season. Please reach out direct for rental vehicle rates.

NOTE: Quotes are subject to availability of specific accommodation and other inclusions. Our NZ touring experts will be in touch with you regarding this. Costs quoted in currencies other than New Zealand dollars (NZ$) are based on todays exchange rate and is subject to change.Terms and Conditions apply

Remember - we can create this itinerary with any style of accommodation or customise to suit your interests and timeframe. Just contact us here.

Tour departure list
See all departure dates & prices
Departure dates and prices
This tour has 11 departure dates.
All prices are in
Starts Status Double (2 people sharing) Single occupancy You save  
Apr 16, 2024
(Tuesday)
Sold out
NZD$5,999 NZD$7,498
Apr 17, 2024
(Wednesday)
Check with us
NZD$5,999 NZD$7,498 Enquire Book
Sep 11, 2024
(Wednesday)
Guaranteed
limited space left
NZD$5,239 NZD$6,678 Enquire Book
Oct 2, 2024
(Wednesday)
Guaranteed
limited space left
NZD$5,239 NZD$6,678 Enquire Book
Oct 30, 2024
(Wednesday)
Guaranteed
limited space left
NZD$5,239 NZD$6,678 Enquire Book
Jan 22, 2025
(Wednesday)
Check with us
NZD$5,239 NZD$6,678 Enquire Book
Jan 27, 2025
(Monday)
Guaranteed
limited space left
NZD$5,239 NZD$6,678 Enquire Book
Mar 12, 2025
(Wednesday)
Guaranteed
limited space left
NZD$5,239 NZD$6,678 Enquire Book
Apr 9, 2025
(Wednesday)
Guaranteed
limited space left
NZD$5,239 NZD$6,678 Enquire Book
Apr 16, 2025
(Wednesday)
Guaranteed
limited space left
NZD$5,239 NZD$6,678 Enquire Book
All prices are in
Contact form
Send enquiry about this tour
Your contact information
Subscribe to our Regular Newsletter for Inspiring Holiday Ideas
Tour recommendation

Some similar tours to this one

6 days Map
Great Journeys of New Zealand - Classic Northern Highlights Tour
View Tour
 
7 days Map
Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Inspirational Alps Tour
View Tour
 
6 days Map
Great Journeys of New Zealand - Classic Coastal Highlights Tour
View Tour