9 Day Bay of Islands and Southern Sounds

This morning you will depart from central Auckland, travelling north through spectacular scenery of native forests and subtropical bush.

If you’re something of an arts, crafts or history buff, a visit to Kerikeri is certainly worth it, as one of the oldest buildings in the country still stands solid – aptly named the Stone Store. Strap back in for the easy drive to Paihia, the idyllic seaside gateway to the whole Bay of Islands region.

On arrival Paihia you will visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds for a unique insight into New Zealand’s early history. (2 nights)

You can relax today and enjoy the Bay of Islands in a number of ways. We have included a cruise to the famous Hole in the Rock and Cape Brett for you this morning. Board the luxury catamaran which will whisk you on a journey out through game fishing waters to the Cape Brett Lighthouse.

Next is Motukōkako Island and the famous Hole in the Rock, where you will make a passage through the hole and on to Grand Cathedral Cave. On the return journey the cruise takes its time and meanders through the inner islands. View sandy beaches, beautiful bays and marine wildlife as your skipper gives an informative commentary. Included is an island stopover on beautiful Urupukapuka Island.

As your catamaran docks at historic Ōtehei Bay, enjoy the white sandy beach, picturesque views, and rich archaeological landscape.

You have a few hours at leisure before your afternoon departure back to Auckland. We’d suggest taking a short ferry trip to Russell to enjoy a sumptuous seafood lunch. Make this your main meal for the day as your journey south to Auckland arrive back in the late evening (around 8pm). On arrival you will be transferred to your accommodation.

This morning you’ll be transferred to the domestic terminal to board your domestic flight to Queenstown. The price of the flight is included in your tour price. On arrival in Queenstown you’ll be transferred to your accommodation. (2 nights)

Today we’ve included the Dart River Wilderness Safari. Jetboat deep into the pristine wilderness up a stunning braided glacial river beneath magnificent snow-capped mountain peaks, walk amongst ancient beech forests, and enjoy a back-road journey by coach through Paradise, home to several Lord of the Rings filming locations.

Today, board a luxury glass-roofed coach to Doubtful Sound. Travel along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and through the rolling countryside to Manapouri. Then cruise across the crystal waters of Lake Manapouri to West Arm before boarding a coach and crossing the alpine route of Wilmot Pass, through some of Fiordland and Doubtful Sound’s most dense rainforest. On reaching Deep Cove, board the Fiordland Navigator for your overnight cruise. (Overnight cruise does not operate 21 May – 31 August.)

Designed along the lines of a traditional scow, the Fiordland Navigator blends old-world charm with modern comforts including spacious viewing decks, a dining saloon/fully-licensed bar, and an observation lounge. After dropping anchor in a sheltered cove, you can choose to explore the shoreline by kayak or tender boat, or simply relax onboard.

In the evening, enjoy a delicious three-course buffet dinner prepared by our on-board chef. Mingle with fellow travellers, savour some of the fine wines at our licensed bar, and if the skies are clear in the evening, spend some time on the upper deck gazing at the stars. Kick off the next day with a hearty cooked breakfast and spend the rest of the morning exploring other parts of the fiord. (D)

Today you return from Doubtful Sound, arriving mid-afternoon. The rest of the day and evening are yours to relax. It’s time to make memories in Queenstown, the capital of adrenaline, beauty, and local foodie culture. Pick and choose from a long list of adventures – from thrilling funyak tours along the Dart River to horse riding in Glenorchy, panning for gold in Arrowtown to a tour of Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw, there is certainly something for every speed.

If you’re not ready to break the spell of the last few days a scenic walk may do the trick, exploring the diverse range of stunning trails the region delivers in troves.

Today you will be met at your Queenstown accommodation and transferred to the airport for your included domestic flight to Auckland. From Auckland you may choose to stay an extra night at one of the airport hotels, or you can organise your flight home to link up with your arrival back in Auckland. Have a safe trip home!