Day 1
Wellington
The aroma of roasting coffee beans is your constant companion in the culinary capital of New Zealand and it is yours to explore at leisure. Linger on a literary encounter with New Zealand’s great writers before meeting your Travel Director for a welcome drink and dinner this evening at your hotel.
Overnight: Sofitel Wellington (Dinner with wine)
Day 2
Wellington
Spend your day delving into the culture and gourmet delights of Wellington – consider a cable car ride for a bird’s-eye view of the city – today is yours to enjoy the city on your terms.
Overnight: Sofitel Wellington (Breakfast and dinner with wine)
Day 3
Taupo
Follow the spectacular Kapiti Coast, traversing the dramatic landscapes of Manawatu to Tongariro National Park, home to remarkable volcanic peaks and Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake. Departing the caldera, stop to admire the raging Huka Falls and pass Wairakei Geothermal Power Station before arriving at your hotel in Taupo.
Overnight: Hilton Lake Taupo (Breakfast and dinner with wine)
Day 4
Rotorua
A leisurely morning soaking up the extraordinary beauty of Taupo before continuing on to nearby Rotorua to gain insights into the fascinating rituals and traditions of the Maori people. Get up close and personal to the locals, touching your forehead and the tip of your nose in their Hongi greeting, and indulge in the mouth-watering flavours of a traditional Hangi Highight Dinner cooked in the ground using geothermal steam.
Overnight: Princess Gate Hotel (Breakfast and highlight dinner)
Day 5
Rotorua
Ascending to the Redwoods Treewalk, enjoy an elevated bird’s eye view of these redwood giants from a completely unique perspective. Next up is Rotorua’s natural splendour – revealed in the crystal clear mineral springs and native flora of Rainbow Springs Nature Park. Explore this wildlife sanctuary before visiting Whakarewarewa Living Village for insights into the lives of the Maori community and their special bond with this ancient land.
Overnight: Princess Gate Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 6
Coromandel
Begin your day with a dazzling show by the Waitomo glowworms, whose iridescent grottos are ours to explore during an exclusive five-star Eco Glowworm experience. Admire the magical subterranean world of Footwhistle Cave before embarking on a visit to Matamata, of The Lord of the Rings fame. Continue to the coastal town of Coromandel – your accommodation tonight is in Tree Hut Chalets.
Overnight: Grand Mercure Puka Park Resort (Breakfast and dinner with wine)
Day 7
Auckland
Enjoy a relaxed start this morning before heading to Auckland, the City of Sails. Get your bearings during a sightseeing city tour, then spend the rest of the day discovering why Auckland is deemed one of the world’s most liveable cities.
Overnight: Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour (Breakfast)
Day 8
Bay of Islands
The golden sands of Orewa seem to stretch endlessly heading north to the native forest of Waipoua. Join a local Maori guide and head deep into the forest, immersing yourself in the fascinating legends behind these giant trees. Finally, journey to your waterfront resort in the Bay of Islands.
Overnight: Copthorne Resort Bay of Islands, Water view room (Breakfast and dinner with wine)
Day 9
Bay of Islands
Leave the subtropical paradise behind and set off by ferry to Russell, New Zealand’s first permanent European settlement. Embark on a guided walking tour of this port town and explore its centuries-old seafaring heritage, and then spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight: Copthorne Resort Bay of Islands, Water view room (Breakfast)
Day 10
Auckland
This morning, set forth across the picturesque Bay of Islands, cruising to the Maori’s sacred Hole in the Rock to witness how it resists the power of the sea. Discover historic Cape Brett before arriving in the pretty tourist hotspot of Paihia for a walk along the beachfront or a spot of curio shopping. Return to Auckland for a memorable Farewell Dinner.
Overnight: Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour (Breakfast and farewell dinner)
Day 11
Auckland
Bid a fond farewell to new friends as your epic New Zealand adventure has come to an end.
