Explore the north island on this 7-night tour embracing the Hongi touch of your Maori hosts revealing their enduring bond with this unspoilt, ancient land. Discover the wonders of the luminous glow-worms at Waitomo Caves, visit Weta Cave the fantasy land of The Lord of the Ring movies, Art Deco Napier and learn about the fascinating history of the Maori culture on this insightful journey through the north island (AA - NZNI).
Highlights
Explore New Zealand’s capital at your own pace
Visit the spectacular Huka Falls and the natural beauty of Lake Taupo
Gain insights to the lives of the fascinating indigenous Maori culture
Indulge in mouth-watering flavours of a traditional Hangi dinner cooked in the ground using geothermal steam.
Head deep into the forest with a local guide, immersing yourself in the fascinating legends behind the giant Redwoods trees
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 included)
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, experience Weta Cave or take a guided city tour. Your Travel Director can assist in booking your optional experiences.
Travel through the dairy farming land of Manawatu to Napier in Hawke’s Bay. This evening you will enjoy wine tasting and dinner at one of the world-famous wineries surrounded by the majestic hills.
Overnight: Porters Boutique Hotel (Breakfast and Local Dining Experience included)
Day 4
Napier
Enjoy a leisurely start to the day before you venture out to explore the region of Hawke’s Bay. Relive the glamour and style of the jazz era with a luxurious vintage car tour, meet the driver dressed in an Art Deco costume who will provide you with fascinating commentary as you are driven around in style through Napier and surrounding areas. Learn about the earthquake that destroyed the city and how the locals rebuilt and discovered the Art Dec style. This evening enjoy dinner at your hotel.
Overnight: Porters Boutique Hotel (Breakfast and dinner with wine included)
Day 5
Rotorua
A leisurely morning soaking up the extraordinary beauty of Huka Falls and Lake Taupo before continuing on to nearby Rotorua to gain insights into the fascinating rituals and traditions of the Maori people. Take an orientation tour of Lake Rotorua before visiting Whakarewarewa Living Village for insights into the lives of the Maori community and their special bond with this ancient land. Tonight, indulge in the mouth-watering flavours of a traditional Hangi Highlight Dinner cooked in the ground using geothermal steam.
Overnight: Pullman Rotorua (Breakfast and dinner included)
Day 6
Rotorua – Redwoods Treewalk
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 returning to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
Overnight: Pullman Rotorua (Breakfast included)
Day 7
Auckland
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 through the dairy farming district of Waikato and onto Auckland. Return to Auckland for a memorable Farewell Dinner.
Overnight: Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour (Breakfast and Farewell dinner include)
Day 8
Auckland
Bid a fond farewell to new friends as your epic New Zealand adventure has come to an end.
