Northern Cultural Wonders

Itinerary

5 days · Auckland

1. 1

   Day 1

   Auckland – Paihia

   • Depart Auckland
   • Arrive Paihia
   • Overnight Paihia

   Depart from SkyCity Bus Terminal, 102 Hobson Street, Auckland at 7.30am aboard your InterCity coach to Paihia.

   Travel north through the scenic landscapes of Northland, passing through Kaiwaka, known as the "Little Town of Lights", before continuing to Paihia, the gateway to the beautiful Bay of Islands.

   Upon arrival in Paihia, make your way to your accommodation to check in. If your room is not ready, luggage storage is available at reception. Return to Paihia Wharf for your afternoon ferry crossing to Russell, New Zealand's first European settlement.

   On arrival in Russell, enjoy a one-hour guided mini tour of this charming historic seaside village.

   In the early afternoon, depart Russell Wharf and cruise through the spectacular Bay of Islands. Pass idyllic islands and the dramatic Cape Brett Peninsula before viewing the historic Cape Brett Lighthouse and the iconic Motukōkako (Hole in the Rock).

   Keep watch for dolphins and other marine wildlife as you cruise through the bay. You'll then enjoy approximately 1.5 hours at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, where you can relax on the beach, enjoy a swim or scenic walk, or purchase refreshments from the licensed café.

   Return to Paihia at approximately 6:30pm.

2. 2

   Day 2

   Paihia – Auckland

   • Depart Paihia
   • Arrive Auckland
   • Overnight Auckland

   After checking out of your accommodation, store your luggage with reception.

   This morning, visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, one of New Zealand's most important historic sites and the birthplace of the nation.

   Enjoy a guided tour of the grounds, including the magnificent Māori Meeting House and the impressive ceremonial waka (war canoe). Learn about the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi and its enduring significance in New Zealand's history. Your visit also includes a traditional cultural performance featuring waiata, haka, and storytelling.

   Following your visit, return to Paihia township, where you'll have time to enjoy lunch (own expense) before collecting your luggage and boarding your coach to Auckland.

   Arrive at SkyCity Bus Terminal, Auckland, at approximately 5:50pm.

3. 3

   Day 3

   Auckland – Rotorua

   • Depart Auckland
   • Arrive Rotorua
   • Overnight Rotorua

   Depart central Auckland at 6:20am and travel south through the scenic Waikato region, renowned as New Zealand's dairy farming heartland. Enjoy views of rolling countryside as you journey through one of the country's most productive agricultural areas.

   Continue to the world-famous Hobbiton Movie Set and enjoy a guided tour of the iconic filming location featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Explore Hobbit Holes, the Green Dragon Inn, the Party Tree, The Mill, and other memorable locations while learning how the movie set was created and maintained.

   Following your guided tour of Hobbiton Movie Set, continue to Rotorua.

   Arrive in Rotorua at approximately 5.30pm.

4. 4

   Day 4

   Day in Rotorua

   • Overnight Rotorua

   This morning, discover the rich cultural heritage and geothermal wonders of Rotorua with a visit to Whakarewarewa – The Living Māori Village, home to the Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao people.

   Join a guided tour through New Zealand's only living Māori village, where residents continue to utilise natural geothermal energy for cooking, bathing, and heating their homes. Explore the remarkable Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, featuring bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and the famous Pōhutu Geyser, the largest active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere.

   Learn about traditional Māori customs, daily life on the geothermal plateau, and the unique relationship between the local people and this extraordinary landscape. Visit important cultural and historical sites, including an active marae, the WWII Memorial Archway, historic churches, and sacred burial grounds.

   Conclude the experience with a cultural performance featuring waiata (songs), haka, stick games, and traditional storytelling that bring to life the legends, history, and heritage of the Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao people.

   From approximately 1:30pm, transferred back to your accommodation where you can enjoy free time to explore Rotorua at your own pace.

5. 5

   Day 5

   Rotorua – Auckland

   • Depart Rotorua
   • Arrive Auckland

   Depart Rotorua in the late morning and travel through the scenic Mamaku Ranges, passing Fitzgerald Glade before arriving at the spectacular Waitomo Glowworm Caves, which were discovered in 1887.

   Enjoy a guided tour through the limestone caverns before boarding a silent boat ride beneath thousands of twinkling glowworms.

   Please note: This experience involves walking and includes approximately 75 steps.

   There are no scheduled meal stops after departing Rotorua. We recommend purchasing lunch or snacks before departure.

   Arrive in Auckland at approximately 7.30pm, where your Northern Cultural Wonders journey concludes.