9 Day Ultimate North Island Escape

Board the luxurious Ultimate Coach, depart Auckland and travel to the Parry Kauri Park to see a magnificent example of a Kauri Tree. Enjoy a visit and informative talk at the Kauri Museum in Matakohe, then travel via Whangarei to Paihia, situated in the heart of the beautiful Bay of Islands. Enjoy a guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the location of the signing of the treaty between the Maori tribes and the British.

Stay: Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands (Deluxe Room. 2 nights) (B, D)

Today is a free day. Choose from the many optional activities available, including the Cape Reinga coach trip via Ninety Mile Beach, a spectacular scenic flight over the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Bay of Islands or you might be interested to sail in a classic tall ship. This evening is also at leisure, you may like to
enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise (optional) or try one of the waterfront restaurants. (B)

This morning you will explore the scenic beauty of the Bay of Islands aboard a luxury catamaran. Spend some time at Otehei Bay on Urapukapuka Island before you cruise to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. On return to Paihia travel south via Whangarei to Auckland.

Stay: Crowne Plaza Auckland (B, D)

An Auckland city sights tour includes a visit to Sky Tower, one of New Zealand’s most spectacular attractions. Standing at 328 metres tall, it has become an iconic lankmark in Auckland’s skyline. Continue through the picturesque countryside to Hobbiton for a buffet lunch. This is followed by a guided tour of the Movie Set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Your guide will recount details of how this beautiful piece of
farmland was transformed into The Shire from Middle-earth.

Stay: Regent of Rotorua (2 nights) (B, L, D)

Today begins with a gondola ride at the Skyline Rotorua where a buffet breakfast and spectacular views are on offer. This is also time for a thrilling luge ride! Next stop is Agrodome for an actionpacked hour of farming entertainment and education that’s unlike anything you’ve seen before. Enjoy some free time this afternoon before travelling to Te Puia to see the boiling mud pools and awesome geysers that Rotorua is famous for. This evening you will experience an entertaining Mãori cultural performance which features the graceful poi dance and ferocious haka. This is follow by a Hãngi feast, prepared in the traditional way, over hot coals and buried in the ground. (B, SD)

Depart Rotorua and travel along the Thermal Explorer Highway to Huka Falls and Lake Taupo. Continue to Napier known as ‘The Art Deco Capital’, where the most comprehensive collection of art deco buildings in the world can be found. Board the Hawke’s Bay Express and hear informative commentary on the city’s fascinating history. Enjoy some free time this afternoon to explore the city, you might choose to do a guided walk (optional).

Stay: Scenic Hotel Te Pania (B, D)

Travel south this morning into Wellington for a city tour of the nation’s capital which will highlight the history and culture on show here. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner including selected beverages with your newfound friends.

Stay: InterContinental Wellington (B, SD)

Time to say goodbye. You’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday. (B)