Itinerary
Journey through the North Island’s diverse landscapes, vibrant culture and renowned culinary regions. From geothermal wonders and ancient forests to vineyards, coastlines and meaningful cultural experiences, uncover the stories, flavours and natural beauty that make New Zealand truly unforgettable.
On arrival into Auckland, you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening you will enjoy a pre-dinner drink when you meet your Tour Leader and travelling companions for dinner.
Hotel arrivals later than 8pm, dinner is not included.
Today, enjoy a city sights tour of Auckland. A short ferry ride transports you to Waiheke Island, where you’ll meet your local Coach Captain and board your coach for an unforgettable day of discovery. Continue to the island’s eastern shores and the idyllic Man O’War Vineyard. Upon arrival you will be welcomed with a guided tasting of two flagship wines, followed by a delicious lunch. The experience continues at Allpress Olive Oil, where you’ll learn about the art of growing and pressing extra virgin olive oil, followed by a tasting of Allpress’ signature blends before returning to Auckland via ferry. This evening is free to explore the local eateries at leisure.
Depart Auckland and travel to Matakohe to enjoy an informative talk at the Kauri Museum. This afternoon travel to the unforgettable Footprints Waipoua experience, set within Waipoua Forest and home to some of the largest and oldest surviving kauri trees on earth. Guided by a knowledgeable local host, you’ll learn how these ancient giants are deeply intertwined with Māori life and traditions, and the vital role they play within the forest’s unique ecosystem. Your day concludes in Paihia, ideally located in the heart of the stunning Bay of Islands, where coastal beauty and rich history await.
This morning cruise through the beautiful Bay of Islands to Cape Brett, where a historic lighthouse keeps watch over Piercy Island, or as it is popularly known, the ‘Hole in the Rock’. As you travel through these pristine waters, keep watch for dolphins and other marine life commonly seen along the way. Your cruise concludes in Russell, where you’ll enjoy free time exploring one of New Zealand’s oldest and most charming settlements. Later, return to Paihia by local ferry before visiting the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the nationally significant site where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between Māori chiefs and representatives of the British Crown.
Today is yours to enjoy at leisure. Choose from a range of optional experiences, including the iconic Cape Reinga coach journey via the legendary Ninety Mile Beach, or take to the skies on a breathtaking scenic flight. This evening is also at leisure, with the option to unwind and reflect on your day aboard a relaxing dinner cruise across the bay.
Depart the Bay of Islands and travel south to Hamilton, set in the heart of the fertile Waikato region. On arrival, enjoy a guided tour of the acclaimed Hamilton Gardens, one of New Zealand’s most distinctive visitor experiences. Rather than a traditional botanic garden, Hamilton Gardens presents a series of beautifully crafted spaces that explore the evolution of garden design across cultures and history, offering an experience akin to an open‑air museum.
This morning, travel through picturesque countryside to the world‑famous Hobbiton Movie Set, where a guided tour of the 12‑acre site brings Middle‑earth to life. Wander past the charming Hobbit Holes, and the Mill before stepping inside the iconic Green Dragon Inn. You’ll also have the opportunity to venture beyond the door and explore an authentic Hobbit Hole interior, offering a fully immersive experience, followed by lunch. Continue to Rotorua to visit the enchanting Redwoods Forest. Enjoy a guided glowworm experience before ascending into the forest canopy for a magical treetop walk. Cross eco‑suspended bridges and platforms high above the forest floor as you come face to face with magnificent redwoods towering up to 75 metres above the ground.
Today begins with a scenic gondola ride and breakfast at Skyline Rotorua, where spectacular views are on offer. There is also time for a thrilling luge ride! Spend the remainder of the morning at leisure, exploring Rotorua at your own pace — New Zealand’s famed geothermal capital. This afternoon, travel to Te Pā Tū for an immersive Māori cultural evening set within a tranquil native forest. The experience begins with a traditional welcome before unfolding through powerful storytelling, song and dance, culminating in a seasonal, family‑style shared feast inspired by Māori cuisine.
This morning, travel to Te Puia for a guided tour through the geothermal heart of Rotorua, home to the dramatic natural wonders the region is famous for, including bubbling mud pools and powerful erupting geysers. Continue along the scenic Thermal Explorer Highway to Huka Falls, where you’ll have the opportunity to experience an exhilarating jet boat ride (optional), skimming across the Waikato River and into the thundering canyon. Travel on to Taupō for some free time to explore the lakeside town before joining a cruise on Lake Taupō, New Zealand’s largest inland lake. The cruise offers superb views of the impressive Māori rock carvings at Mine Bay, a remarkable site accessible only from the water.
Continue to Napier, proudly known as the “Art Deco Capital of the World,” and home to the most comprehensive collection of Art Deco architecture found anywhere. On arrival, enjoy some free time before you board the Hawke’s Bay Express for an informative and entertaining journey through the city, accompanied by commentary that brings Napier’s fascinating history and 1930s rebirth to life.
Depart Napier and journey along scenic coastal roads toward the rugged landscapes of Cape Kidnappers. Embark on the unforgettable Gannets Overland Safari, travelling across rolling farmland and dramatic clifftops where sweeping ocean vistas create spectacular photo opportunities. Along the way, your knowledgeable guide shares engaging stories of the region’s history, geology and wildlife. This extraordinary headland is also home to one of the world’s largest and most accessible mainland gannet colonies. This afternoon, indulge in a visit to Craggy Range Winery, one of New Zealand’s most celebrated wine estates. Enjoy a tasting of award‑winning wines and lunch set against the striking backdrop of Te Mata Peak. Return to Napier for an evening at leisure, with time to explore the city’s distinctive Art Deco streets, seaside promenade and vibrant café scene.
Please note: May falls outside the peak breeding season, so gannets may not be nesting at this time.
This morning, travel south to Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital city. Enjoy a guided city tour showcasing Wellington’s rich history and cultural highlights. A key feature of the day is time at Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum, where you’ll explore Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War. This powerful exhibition uses cutting‑edge technology and larger‑than‑life figures to bring the stories of New Zealanders during World War I vividly to life. This evening, gather for a pre‑dinner drink and take time to reflect on the journey and the memories shared with newfound friends before enjoying a special farewell dinner together.
Kia ora. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.
If departing the hotel prior to the restaurant opening, breakfast is not included.
