Ultimate Northern Discovery

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

   Day in Auckland

   • Overnight Auckland

   Today is dedicated to exploring Auckland, New Zealand's largest city and the renowned "City of Sails."

   This morning, join a 3.5-hour sightseeing tour showcasing the city's history, Māori heritage, and most iconic landmarks. Built around the beautiful Waitematā Harbour, Auckland is known for its stunning waterfront setting and maritime lifestyle.

   Highlights include visits to Auckland Domain, Mount Victoria in Devonport, and Westhaven Marina, along with numerous opportunities to enjoy panoramic city views and memorable photo stops.

4. 4

   Day 4

   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 spectacular Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where millions of years of natural processes have created a fascinating underground world of limestone formations. Enjoy a guided walk through the caves before enjoying a silent boat ride gliding through the Glowworm Grotto, illuminated by thousands of tiny glowworms.

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

   Lunch is included today.

   Continue through the Central North Island to Rotorua, arriving in the late afternoon.

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 world-famous Hobbiton Movie Set.

   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.

   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 Ultimate Northern Discovery adventure concludes.