Itinerary
Day 1: Auckland - Whitianga [D]
Departing Auckland early in the morning we travel to New Zealand's alternative lifestyle regions - the Coromandel. This scenic peninsula is framed by native
Pohutukawa trees, subtropical rain forest and beautiful white sandy beaches. We pass through Thames, the 'Gateway to the Coromandel' a historic Gold and Kauri logging township,. We board
the historic Driving Creek Railway in Coromandel Township for a journey through native forest and past unusual structures to the 'Eyeful Tower' for a stunning view over the bays and beaches far
below. Free time for you to enjoy lunch at a local cafe.
After an afternoon stop for a wine tasting we end the day at Whitianga, located in beautiful Mercury Bay. Get to know your
fellow traveler over a special dinner.
Accommodation: Aotearoa Lodge
Day 2: Whitianga - Tauranga [B & L]
This morning you will be taken by launch to see Mercury Bay
with its secluded bays and sandy beaches, stopping at the famous Cathedral Cove (only accessible by boat or on foot). Next we travel by coach to Hot Water Beach – when if tides allow you will
have the opportunity to create your own hot water spa right on the beach. Lunch will be taken at a renowned local cafe.
Our next destination is the old gold mining town Waihi, then on to
Katikati where murals along the main street tell the stories of past days. Our final destination today is Mount Maunganui, where an extinct volcano known by Maori as Mauao, guards over the
entrance to Tauranga Harbour. The evening is free for you to enjoy one of the many local restaurants just a short walk from your hotel.
Accommodation: Oceanside Resort
Day 3: Tauranga [B & L]
After a local tour of historic sights, you will enjoy a wine tasting and lunch at the award winning Mills Reef Winery. The afternoon is free for your
choices: relax at the beach, enjoy Salt Water Hot Pools, shop downtown, try one of the many cafes, or arrange a helicopter flight to White Island – an active marine volcano. For the more
adventurous try white water rafting or skydiving.
Accommodation: Oceanside Resort
Day 4: Tauranga - Rotorua [B,L & D]
We make an early start to Te Puke, the kiwifruit
capital of the world. Take a fascinating tour at KIWI360 to learn about this amazing fruit. Time if you wish for a thrilling jet boat ride along the Kaituna River.
Our next stop is the geothermal region of Rotorua. Steaming hot water geysers, boiling mud pools and monuments of the Maori culture are to be found all over the city. You will visit a thermal village and enjoy lunch at an historic venue in the Government Gardens.
The afternoon can be spent in one of the hot spas, trout fishing on Lake Rotorua or just looking through the many arts and crafts shops.
In the evening you will be taken for an evening
of entertainment at the award winning Tamaki Maori village, set deep in the forest. Step back in time and learn their customs and culture, then enjoy a traditional Hangi feast.
Accommodation: Hotel Ibis Rotorua
Day 5: Rotorua - Taupo [B,L & D]
After a short drive south from Rotorua will we begin the day with the eruption of the Lady Knox Geyser at
Wai-O-Tapu. This thermal valley has amazing and unique features, such as the world famous Champagne Pool and the Sinter Terrace formations. Continuing to Taupo we will pass by the Huka
Falls, which are the largest falls on the Waikato River. Then to Huka Prawn Park for lunch, perhaps even try a little prawn fishing. Arriving in Taupo, the rest of the afternoon is for you
to relax, until joining a private launch for an evening dinner barbecue cruise on Lake Taupo.
Accommodation: Suncourt Motor Hotel
Day 6: Taupo – Waitomo – Auckland [B & L]
Your journey continues to the Waitomo Region today. Famous for its glowworm caves. A guided tour will take you through the stunning underground caves, followed by a boat trip
through the spectacular Glowworm Grotto. Lunch at Roselands Farm will refresh your senses before you visit one of New Zealand's most traditional kiwi culture shows where you will learn what
it takes to shear a sheep. You will be back in Auckland in the early evening.
B, L & D in brackets show which meals are included each day. |
