Price pp from:

$2,985
Wooden jetties on Lake Taupo at sunset with orange sky reflecting on calm water.
Māori Culture

Central North Island Explorer Tour

Auckland

Auckland

8 days, 7 nights

Road Trips

From: $2,985 pp

Trip overview

Your adventure begins in the vibrant "City of Sails" before heading to the white sands and turquoise waters of the Coromandel Peninsula. You will experience the geothermal magic of Rotorua, where bubbling mud pools and rich Māori culture create a truly unique atmosphere. The journey continues through the volcanic landscapes of Taupō and into the mystical glowworm-lit caverns of Waitomo. We have included essential experiences like a scenic cruise to Cathedral Cove and an authentic evening cultural performance to ensure you see the very best of the region. This itinerary offers a perfect balance of iconic sightseeing and relaxed driving through some of New Zealand’s most picturesque countryside.

Trip highlights & inclusions

8 days / 7 nights
1 lunch

Auckland

Auckland

Apartments
Rental car included
  • Cathedral Cove Scenic Cruise
  • Te Pā Tū Evening Māori Cultural Experience - Dinner Included
  • Te Ra Guided Experience, Cultural Experience and Hangi Buffet Lunch

Make an enquiry about this trip or build a custom quote

Price pp from

$2,985

Why Discover New Zealand

  • Wānaka-based specialists planning your trip from inside New Zealand.
  • One travel specialist to plan and book every detail from start to finish.
  • 24/7 in-country support while you’re travelling, so help is close if plans change.

Trip itinerary

Welcome to Auckland

Welcome to Auckland, known in Māori as Tāmaki Makaurau. Auckland is New Zealand's vibrant "City of Sails," and the country's largest metropolitan area. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea. Surrounded by native bush, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches, Auckland is a haven for both adventurers and urban explorers. Wander through world-class museums and galleries in the city centre or enjoy a peaceful retreat at the Auckland Gardens, where stunning landscapes showcase New Zealand's diverse flora. Stroll along the lively waterfront to savour fresh seafood and international cuisine at Viaduct restaurants. For an unforgettable perspective, ascend the iconic SkyTower, New Zealand's tallest structure, and take in panoramic views of the city and its picturesque islands.

Aerial view of Auckland city skyline with bridge and harbor at sunset. Credit: New Zealand Fine Touring

Accommodation

Modern multi-story hotel building with glass windows and balconies under a partly cloudy sky. Credit: Adina Britomart Hotel Auckland
Adina Apartment Hotel Auckland Britomart

Activities

Trip highlights

Boat near rocky cliffs and clear turquoise water at Cathedral Cove on a sunny day. Credit: Cathedral Cove Cruises (Epic Adventure Ltd)

Cathedral Cove Scenic Cruise

Two Maori performers performing a traditional dance with expressive faces and traditional attire in a natural setting. Credit: Te Pa Tu

Te Pā Tū Evening Māori Cultural Experience - Dinner Included

Group of people walking near a steaming geyser in a natural outdoor setting. Credit: Te Puia

Te Ra Guided Experience, Cultural Experience and Hangi Buffet Lunch

Two people walk on a suspension bridge next to a large lantern-shaped wooden structure in a lush redwood forest. Credit: Redwoods Treewalk

Redwoods Daytime Treewalk and Glowworm Combo

Crowd of tourists watching an erupting geyser at Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland from wooden benches. Credit: Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Group of people on boat looking at large Maori carving on rock face by water Credit: Chris Jolly Outdoors

Lake Taupo Scenic Cruise to the Maori Rock Carvings

A view from inside the dark mouth of a cave looking out at an exit platform and jetty, where dramatic sunbeams slice through a lush, misty green forest canopy. Credit: Discover Waitomo Group

Glow Worm Caves Tour with Discover Waitomo

Additional inclusions

Private Transfer Auckland Airport to your Auckland Accommodation with Tourcorp

24/7 support from the moment you arrive to the moment you depart

Talk to a local travel specialist. Enquire