North Island Explorer - 11 days
North Island Explorer - 11 days
11 Days Starting in Auckland and ending in Wellington
Visiting: Auckland, Bay of Islands, Whitianga, Rotorua, Lake Taupo, Napier, Wellington
Tour operator:
Group size:
2 - 16
Age range:
18+The average age of passengers on these tours is between 55-75yrs. Pure Discoveries do not permit children.
Trip Styles:
Tour Overview
From Auckland, discover the delights of New Zealand’s scenic North Island over 11 days on this escorted group tour. Learn about Maori culture and heritage in Rotorua and explore the beautiful Bay of Islands in New Zealand's far north. Spot rare birdlife at the Coromandel Peninsula, opt to explore the Hobbiton movie set from 'Lord of the Rings', and marvel at stunning Lake Taupo. Sample local wines in Napier and end your journey in the Kiwi capital of Wellington.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Auckland
Location: Auckland
Upon arrival into Auckland you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day offers free time for you to explore the local area.
Day 2: Auckland
Location: Auckland, Bay of Islands
Meals Included: Breakfast
Auckland – Russell. Today we depart Auckland and travel north via the iconic Harbour Bridge before reaching the Reed Memorial Park. Here we walk along an elevated canopy through what remains of the original kauri forests, featuring kauri trees which are at least 500 years old and gaze at the picturesque Whangarei Falls, a natural wonder that dates back over 2 million years.
From here, we continue to the Bay of Islands, an enchanting region of 144 sub-tropical islands scattered across warm, shallow waters and bays teeming with natural beauty and marine life. Known as the birthplace of New Zealand, the Bay of Islands is steeped in Maori culture and early European history. Here our adventure starts at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where we uncover the story of Waitangi, including the signing of the 1840 treaty between Maori tribes and British settlers. Whilst here we can explore the magnificent meeting house and visit the museum. Following this we take a ferry to the charming seaside village of Russell.
Day 3: Russell
Location: Bay of Islands
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your choice of activity today must be made at the time of booking. Please let our Reservations team know which included activity you would like to partake in.
Today we have a choice of two excursions to explore the picturesque surroundings.
Option 1 is to travel by coach along 90 Mile Beach to the very tip of New Zealand, Cape Reinga. This is a full day tour and a picnic lunch will be provided.
Option 2 sees us taking a Hole in the Rock cruise to Cape Brett Lighthouse. During this cruise we will watch in awe as the captain guides us through the famous Hole in the Rock and into Grand Cathedral Cave (conditions permitting).
Once we return to Russell we will meet a guide who will teach us all about this historic towns exciting history.
Day 4: Russell
Location: Auckland
Meals Included: Breakfast
Russell – Auckland. Our journey takes us back to Auckland, travelling through rural towns and past picturesque beaches before arriving back in the 'City of Sails.' Here we will enjoy a sightseeing tour where we explore its lively harborside, take in sweeping panoramic views, and explore charming villages. We also enjoy a fascinating guided tour of the Auckland Museum.
Day 5: Auckland
Location: Auckland, Whitianga
Meals Included: Breakfast
Auckland – Whitianga. Today we head south across the Hauraki Plains to Thames before continuing up the western side of the Coromandel Peninsula. The coastal drive along this route is truly breathtaking. On clear days, be sure to watch for the SkyTower, visible across the Firth of Thames. We pay a visit to the nearby Driving Creek Railway, where we climb 120 meters on a narrow-gauge line to the 'EyeFull' Tower, offering panoramic views of the picturesque countryside and back over the Hauraki Gulf. We continue our journey across the peninsula until we arrive at the resort of Whitianga on Mercury Bay.
Day 6: Whitianga
Location: Whitianga
Meals Included: Breakfast
The Coromandel region is a vibrant canvas of white cliffs, sun-kissed golden beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush green forests. In the summer, vibrant scarlet hues emerge thanks to the blossoming Pohutukawa trees. One of its most renowned attractions is Hot Water Beach, where natural hot springs bubble up through the sandy shores and during the right tide conditions you can create your own "spa" pool in the warm waters.
Stroll along the beautiful sandy beaches of Hahei and visit Cooks Beach, named in honour of Captain James Cook who sailed into Mercury Bay in 1769.
From Cooks Beach you can choose to catch the short ferry ride back to Whitianga and walk to our accommodation or travel back with our driver.
Day 7: Whitianga
Location: Whitianga
Meals Included: Breakfast
Whitianga – Rotorua. Setting off in the morning we follow the Pacific Coast Highway through the coastal towns of Whangamata and Tauranga before turning inland to visit a scenic bushwalk with views of Okere Falls. Then it's onwards to Rotorua, the epicentre of Maori heritage and New Zealand’s geothermal activity. Here we visit Te Puia, an active geothermal site, the nation’s centre for indigenous arts and crafts, and a Kiwi conservation project.
Day 8: Rotorua
Location: Rotorua
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Your choice of activity today must be made at the time of booking. Please let our Reservations team know which included activity you would like to partake in.
Today we have a choice between two different activities. Option 1 is a visit to the Waimangu Volcanic Valley which is the site of the Mt Tarawera eruption in 1886. This monumental event reshaped the landscape permanently, giving rise to the valley we explore today. As we wander through we encounter bubbling craters and brilliantly coloured steaming lakes. We embark on a cruise across Lake Rotomahana to the location of the silica terraces where we witness the gradual formation of new silica terraces.
Option 2 is a Middle-earth experience with a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set where we explore the iconic Shire. Our guide will walk us through the ten-acre site, sharing insights on how the movie set was brought to life. We get to see the Hobbit holes, Green Dragon Inn, The Millhouse, and other film structures, witnessing the transformation of this beautiful Waikato farmland into Middle-earth's Shire.
In the evening we head to the Tamaki Maori Village for Te Pa Tu. The experience aligns with the Maori lunar calendar, offering Maori traditions, songs, and seasonal cuisine within the forest village. We enjoy a 4-course fusion feast designed by Maori chefs and served outdoors or in the dining room, depending on the weather.
Return hotel transfers are included, and we join other travellers for this enriching experience.
Day 9: Rotorua
Location: Rotorua, Lake Taupo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Rotorua – Napier. This morning we head south, visiting Huka Falls and onwards to Lake Taupo. If clear skies permit, from here we should be able to see the peaks of Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro, where lays the volcanic terrain that acted as the backdrop of ‘Mordor’ in The Lord of the Rings trilogy. We continue our journey to Napier, a joyful seaside town that had a tragic birth which we learn about today as we explore its sights on foot.
Our journey today has brought us to the North Island’s wine country, so this evening we are treated to dinner with a glass of wine at the Mission Estate Winery. First set up by missionaries in the mid-19th century, today these vineyards produce award-winning wines. We enjoy a tour of the winery before enjoying our dinner with sweeping views over Napier.
Day 10: Napier
Location: Napier
Meals Included: Breakfast
Napier – Wellington. This morning we make our way to New Zealand’s capital city of Wellington, home to artists, writers and filmmakers with a trendy cafe culture. We see the magnificent Parliament Buildings, including the iconic 'Beehive' building before heading to the Kelburn Lookout. After taking the cable car down to the city centre we go to the Te Papa, one of the most exciting museums in the world where we have a lesson in the land, people, wildlife, landscapes and culture of New Zealand.
Day 11: Wellington
Location: Wellington
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today our adventure in New Zealand comes to an end. A transfer takes you to Wellington Airport for your flight home.
What's Included
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Accommodation
4-star hotels -
10 nights 4 star hotels
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10 breakfasts & 2 dinners
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Airport arrival and departure transfers on day 1 and day 11
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Escorted by an expert local guide/driver with specialist local guides at some sites
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Ferry to Russell
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All relevant transfers and transportation in modern air-conditioned vehicle
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Touring of Auckland, Napier & Wellington
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Entry to Waitangi Treaty Grounds
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Journey along 90 Mile Beach or take a Hole in the Rock cruise at Bay of Islands
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Coromandel narrow-gauge railway
What's Not Included
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International flights and visas
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Items of a personal nature (telephone calls, laundry, travel insurance etc)
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Optional activities
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Tip for your tour guide driver. We recommend you allow $4 - 7 USD per day per traveller. Tipping your tour guide is an entirely personal gesture.
Accommodation
M Social
The M Social Hotel in Auckland is the perfect blend of modern design and convenient location. Situated in Auckland’s vibrant waterfront, this modern hotel offers an unbeatable location to explore the city. The hotel boasts a variety of well-decorated rooms and suites with stunning views of the city or harbour. Each room is designed for comfort and style, featuring sleek decor, comfortable beds, and modern amenities to make your stay truly comfortable. A highlight of the M Social Hotel is the stylish Beast & Butterflies restaurant, serving up delicious Asia Pacific cuisine. When relaxing in the hotel guests can make the most of the modern fitness centre or enjoy some drinks at the bar to unwind after a day of exploring.
The Duke Of Marlborough Hotel
The Duke of Marlborough Hotel, nestled in the picturesque town of Russell, New Zealand, offers a charming and historic experience in the heart of the Bay of Islands. This waterfront gem is a testament to the regions rich heritage. The hotel features a variety of comfortable rooms and suites, many with stunning sea views, reflecting the town's colonial past while providing modern amenities for a comfortable stay making it the perfect mix of classic elegance and modern convenience. Guests can dine in style at the hotel's restaurant, known for its delicious cuisine and fine selection of local wines. The Duke's veranda offers a stunning setting to enjoy a meal and the hotels bars selection of drinks while taking in the picturesque bay views. The hotel's rich history makes it a delightful choice for those seeking a memorable stay in Russell, a charming corner of New Zealand's North Island.
Oceans Resort
Oceans Resort enjoys a prime location right on Simpsons & Buffalo Beach, where guests can enjoy the serene sounds of the ocean and picturesque sea views. Accommodation at Oceans Resort are a selection of spacious and modern apartments, some featuring fully equipped kitchens, living areas, and private balconies. These tasteful rooms provide the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. The resort's facilities include a heated swimming pool and spa, inviting you to unwind after a day discovering the Coromandel Peninsula. For those looking to explore, the Whitianga town centre is just a short stroll away, offering a variety of dining, shopping, and recreational activities.
Millennium Hotel Rotorua
Set in the heart of Rotorua, the Millennium Hotel offers a unique blend of luxurious comfort and access to local natural beauty. The hotel's location places you within easy reach of Rotorua's geothermal parks, Maori cultural experiences, and adventure activities, making it an ideal choice for exploring the diverse attractions of this captivating city. Rooms provide a perfect place for relaxation. Guests can expect modern amenities, comfortable furnishings, and some rooms even offer stunning views of Lake Rotorua or the surrounding landscapes. Millennium Hotel Rotorua offers a variety of facilities to enhance your stay, including a heated pool & fitness centre. The hotel offers two restaurants that serve delectable menus of local and international cuisine. A contemporary cocktail bar is also found on site for guests to enjoy.
Regal Palms Resort
Found in the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua, the Regal Palms Resort is a luxurious escape surrounded by nature's marvels. Conveniently located on the edge of the city, this resort provides easy access to Rotorua's iconic attractions, including geysers, hot springs, and cultural experiences. Rooms at the Regal Palms Resort are stylish and modern, offering a variety of spacious and well-equipped suites and villas. Each unit boasts modern amenities such as an ensuite, a TV, A/C, and a small kitchenette with private balconies or courtyards, creating a serene retreat for guests. The resort's facilities include a heated outdoor pool, mineral spa pools, a fitness centre, tennis courts, and a mini gold course, allowing guests to unwind and rejuvenate. The on-site day spa offers a range of pampering treatments for ultimate relaxation.
Scenic Hotel Te Pania
Scenic Hotel Te Pania is a jewel on the Napier waterfront, offering a prime location to explore. The hotel's accommodations feature a blend of modern comfort and style, with many rooms providing panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Each room is elegantly decorated, equipped with A/C, a TV, WiFi, and an en-suite. Guests can unwind in the hotel's restaurant and bar, serving a delicious array of local cuisine and fine wines. The outdoor terrace is perfect for enjoying a meal and a drink with the picturesque backdrop of the sea. Scenic Hotel Te Pania boasts exceptional facilities, including a fitness centre, a bar, and complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring a convenient stay for its guests. Its central location allows easy access to Napier's vibrant arts and culture scene, making it an ideal choice for exploring this unique destination.
DoubleTree By Hilton Wellington
DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington is perfectly situated in the heart of New Zealand's vibrant capital city. The hotel's location is unbeatable, just steps away from Wellington's bustling business district and the city's major attractions. It's a great base for exploring the Te Papa Museum, the iconic Wellington Cable Car, and the vibrant scene along the waterfront. Rooms are comfortable, clean and stylish and guests can expect plush furnishings, modern amenities and splendid views of the city from some rooms. Facilities include a fitness centre and a restaurant/bar serving Asian and European inspired cuisine.
Check out our Q&As
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
On The Go Tours allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform on the go tours, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 300 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.