8 Day Guided Vacation
Select a departure date
Departs from Auckland
Returns to Wellington
Priced from $1850
Twin share$2360 Single traveller
$1665 Young traveller
Departures
From 1 June 2018
$1850 adult twin $2360 single $1665 child
Departs
Returns
From 6 October 2018
$2295 adult twin $2865 single $2065 child
Departs
Returns
From 1 January 2019
$2295 adult twin $2865 single $2065 child
Departs
Returns
From 20 April 2019
$2150 adult twin $2720 single $1935 child
Departs
Returns
From 28 April 2019
$2050 adult twin $2610 single $1845 child
Departs
Returns
From 5 October 2019
$2360 adult twin $2935 single $2130 child
Departs
Returns
- Departures
- Definite Departures
- Limited Seats
- Fully Booked/Embarked
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Auckland CIty
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Agrodome Sheep Show
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Bay of Islands
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Te Papa - Wellington
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Tamaki Maori Village
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Waitangi Treaty Reserve
Follow the path of pioneers as you travel across the North Island of New Zealand. From the first European settlements on the shores of the beautiful Bay of Islands, to Rotorua – rich in Maori culture and traditions, through spectacular scenery of Tongariro National Park and down to the modern capital city of Wellington.
Welcome to Auckland
On arrival in Auckland you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure for you to explore Auckland. Tonight enjoy a welcome reception with your Travel Director and fellow travellers.
Hotel: VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites
Auckland – Bay of Islands
Day 2: Auckland – Bay of Islands
Travel along the scenic Hibiscus Coast. Take a walk among the Kauri trees a Parry Kauri Park. Explore Whangarei, the northern-most city in New Zealand, and then it’s off to the beautiful Bay of Islands. Take a scenic cruise through game fishing waters to Cape Brett and, weather permitting, through the famous ‘Hole in the Rock’. The return cruise to Paihia meanders through picturesque islands – see deserted sandy beaches and secluded bays, and keep your eyes peeled for marine life.
Day 3: Bay of Islands ‘Free Time’
Enjoy a free day to explore the Bay of Islands. Go dolphin watching or take a coach trip to Cape Reinga via idyllic 90 Mile Beach. You could enjoy a day of sailing on a tall ship or discover the historic township of Russell. Or you may want to sample local wine and chocolate on a tour around Kerikeri. This evening, there is the option to take a dinner cruise down the Waitangi River. Ask your Travel Director about optional activities (all own expense).
Hotel: Copthorne Resort Bay of Islands, Garden Rooms, 2 nights
Included Meals: Day 2: Breakfast, Dinner. Day 3: Breakfast
Bay of Islands – Auckland
This morning, there is time for an optional visit to the Waitangi Treaty Reserve which is of great historical importance. You’ll see highlights such as the Maori War Canoe and Meeting House (Marae). This afternoon enjoy the lush farmland scenery as you return to Auckland.
Hotel: VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Auckland – Rotorua
Day 5: Auckland – Rotorua
Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Auckland then journey south through the Waikato district. Experience a guided tour of the famous Waitomo Caves and cruise the incredible Glowworm Grotto. This afternoon travel to Rotorua. 
Enjoy an evening of fun and laughter and gain an insight into traditional Maori culture, followed by a delicious buffet dinner at the Tamaki Maori Village.
Day 6: Rotorua
Visit the Agrodome Farm Show for a sample of Kiwi farm life. See the art of sheep shearing, sheepdog trials, cow milking, bottle feeding lambs and an exciting sheep auction. Later you then have the option to visit Rainbow Springs, a native wildlife sanctuary. Or head out to Te Puia, for a guided tour through the Geothermal Valley, home of the famous Pohutu Geyser, mud pools and carvers at work in the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute.
Hotel: Ibis Rotorua Hotel, 2 nights
Included Meals: Day 5: Breakfast, Highlight dinner. Day 6: Breakfast
Rotorua – Wellington
Travel south to Wairakei and on to Taupo, in the heart of the North Island. View mighty Huka Falls then follow the eastern shore of Lake Taupo. Discover the alpine scenery of Mt. Ruapehu, Tongariro National park and the farmlands of the Manuwatu, into the capital city, Wellington. This evening celebrate your holiday at a farewell dinner with your Travel Director.
Hotel: Travelodge Wellington
Included Meals: Breakfast, Farewell dinner
Farewell from Wellington
This morning enjoy a sightseeing tour of Wellington, with panoramic views from Mt. Victoria. There’s time to explore Parliament and the Beehive. Visit Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand, including the unique Marae or Maori Meeting House. Later you will be transferred to Wellington Airport to connect with your onward flight.
Included Meals: Breakfast
8 Day Guided Vacation
Tour departs from Auckland and returns to Wellington
Don't Miss
Kiwifruit
The Big Apple in New Zealand? On this holiday between the Waitomo Caves and Rotorua, you’ll visit the ‘Big Apple’ to taste-test their delicious kiwifruit. Did you know that it contains 90% more vitamin C than an orange?! Originally known as the Chinese gooseberry, it was native to China but in the early 20th century spread to New Zealand, where the first commercial plantings occurred. It proved popular with American servicemen in New Zealand during World War II and because of this the fruit was exported to California using the names Chinese gooseberry and melonette. But when the California-based importer rejected these names, the fruit was rebranded kiwifruit due to its resemblance to the New Zealand kiwi bird.
Highlights
- Cruise through ‘Hole in the Rock’ to Cape Brett
- Relax in the Bay of Islands
- Explore Auckland’s city sights
- Discover the fascinating Glowworm Grotto at Waitomo Caves
- Explore ancient limestone caves
- Immerse yourself in Maori culture at a Hangi & concert
- Experience farm life at the Agrodome Farm Show
- View mighty Huka Falls
- Marvel at crystal clear Lake Taupo
- Journey through spectacular scenery of Tongariro National Park
- Discover New Zealand’s capital Wellington on a city tour
- Breathtaking views over Wellington from Mt. Victoria
- Explore Te Papa, Museum of New Zealand
- Experienced Travel Director and Driver Guide
Inclusions
- Comfortable accommodation
- Travel by luxury coach
- Airport transfers (see flight information below)
Dining
- Full buffet breakfasts (7)
- Highlight dinner (1)
- Dinners (2)
- Farewell dinner (1)
Flight Information
| Day 1 | Flights to arrive prior to 4.00pm into Auckland Airport |
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| Day 8 | Flights to depart after 2.00pm from Wellington Airport |
What to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat
- Water bottle
- Camera
- Jacket in cooler months
Ways to Save
Departures before 31 March 2018
| Triple share | Save up to 5% | |
| Kings Club | Save up to 5% |
All savings are per person.
Departures before 31 March 2019
| Kings Club | 5% saving | |
| 2nd vacation discount | 2.5% saving | |
| Groups (5 people or more) | 5% saving | |
| Triple share | 5% saving | |
Find your applicable discounts as many discounts are combinable. More Information
Quality accommodation
Your Guided Holiday includes a range of quality accommodation for your comfort.
The accommodation you will enjoy on this tour includes:
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VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites
401 Queen St, Auckland, 1010, New ZealandA BRAND New 4.5 Qualmark rated apartment Hotel & Suites with an unbeatable location on Queen Street, contemporary styling and well-appointed modern rooms. For the convenience of travellers and visitors to Auckland, VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites is an ideal location, situated on the prime street of Auckland CBD. This brand new hotel offers excellent convenience of being in the heart of the business, shopping and food district of Auckland.
- Features
- Air-conditioning
- Iron / Ironing Board
- Wireless Internet access
- Hair Dryer
- TV
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Copthorne Resort Bay of Islands, Garden Rooms
Tau Henare Dr, Paihia 0200, North Island2 nights
This welcoming Bay of Islands hotel commands a superb waterfront location in the heart of the Bay of Islands, offering uninterrupted bay views surrounded by 60 acres of subtropical gardens as part of the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds.
- Features
- 42" flat screen TV with Sky channels
- Wi-Fi
- Refrigerator
- Mini Bar
- Hair Dryer
- Iron / Ironing Board
- In-room safe
- Coffee/tea making facilities
- Phone
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VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites
401 Queen St, Auckland, 1010, New ZealandA BRAND New 4.5 Qualmark rated apartment Hotel & Suites with an unbeatable location on Queen Street, contemporary styling and well-appointed modern rooms. For the convenience of travellers and visitors to Auckland, VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites is an ideal location, situated on the prime street of Auckland CBD. This brand new hotel offers excellent convenience of being in the heart of the business, shopping and food district of Auckland.
- Features
- Air-conditioning
- Iron / Ironing Board
- Wireless Internet access
- Hair Dryer
- TV
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Ibis Rotorua Hotel
Lake End Rangiruru Street, Rotorua 3010 New Zealand2 nights
Situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Rotorua, this hotel offers tranquil surroundings with sensational views. Our central location is easily accessible to cafés, restaurants and the Energy Events Convention Centre. Stunning natural scenery and geothermal wonders makes this the ultimate destination.
- Features
- Ensuite
- Air-conditioning
- Telephone - Voice Mail
- Soundproofed Windows
- TV
- In-house movies
- Pay TV
- 220/240 V AC
- Data port in room
- High speed transmission line (pay)
- Work Desk
- Manual temperature control
- Iron
- Coffee/tea making facilities
- Hairdryer
- Automatic wake up call
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Travelodge Wellington
2-6 Gilmer Terrace, Wellington, 6011, New ZealandWith close proximity to the city’s financial hub as well as many Wellington attractions, such as Wellington Zoo, the Wellington Cable Car, the Te Papa Museum of New Zealand, and the Wellington Botanic Gardens, Travelodge Hotel Wellington is perfectly located for both business and leisure travel.
- Features
- Hair Dryer
- Pay TV
- Iron / Ironing Board
- Tea & Coffee Facilities
- Individual heater control
- LCD TV
- Refrigerator
- Internet Access
- Microwave
Experience more on your holiday
To ensure your holiday is filled with memorable experiences, we have included a range of quality Optional Excursions for you to choose from and partake in, if you wish, during your holiday. We understand that everyone is an individual, and have therefore allowed some free time for you to experience different types of touring. These have not been included in the tour fare as we realise they may not appeal to all people. Our selection of optional excursions include scenic flights, helicopter rides, cruises, dinners, ballooning, fishing trips, four wheel drive tours, cultural experiences, and even camel riding.
Experiences available between 1 October 2017 - 30 September 2018
Dune Rider - Cape Reinga via Ninety Mile Beach (Bay of Islands)
NZ$150 Adult NZ$75 Child
This is a full day to explore the magnificent natural wonders of the North. Visit the ancient Kauri Kingdom workshop, Cape Reinga lighthouse and the magnificent 90 Mile Beach. Experience the rush of speed as you sandboard down white sand dunes at Te Paki stream on a boogie board. Includes a lunch.
Discover Kerikeri (Bay of Islands)
NZ$60 Adult NZ$30 Child
Enjoy a relaxing tour of Kerikeri, showcasing the rich history of the North. This tour takes a look at the importance of wine-growing in the region and visits a small family-run boutique vineyard, Ake Ake to sample some of their organic wine. And then take a step back in time with visits to the Historic Stone Store and Kemp House. And then conclude the tour with a stop-off at the local chocolate factory – Makana – where you can watch the delicious chocolates being made, and of course, taste a few samples!
Darryl's Dinner Cruise (Bay of Islands)
NZ$98 Adult NZ$35 Child
Relax with a scenic cruise down the Waitangi River while enjoying a drink from the well-stocked bar. Wind through to Haruru Falls, where dinner is prepared and served aboard the boat, the Ratanui. Soak up the ambience of the floodlit falls, and perhaps even come face to face with a Taniwha!
Waitangi Treaty Grounds (Bay of Islands)
NZ$40 Adult, Under 18 years are free of charge
Take a wander through the grounds of New Zealand’s most important historic site, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, rich in history and stories of the momentous events which shaped a nation. The grounds are where Maori chiefs first signed their accord with the British Crown – the Treaty of Waitangi, New Zealand’s founding document. Visit treasures such as the Treaty House, Meeting House, Flagstaff and Ceremonial War Canoe. Roam the grounds on your own, or enhance your visit with a guided tour. Many of the guides descend from signatories to the Treaty which will give your visit a personal connection to Waitangi.
Rainbow Springs Wildlife Park (Rotorua)
From NZ$40 Adult NZ$20 Child
Set in 22 acres of beautiful native trees and streams, Rainbow Springs is home to a huge variety of New Zealand’s most precious inhabitants. Experience the adrenalin rush of The Big Splash, explore the many free flight aviaries, come face to face with pre-history in the eyes of the tuatara, and experience the wonder of the bird show featuring some of the funniest feathered performers you will ever see.
Te Puia (Rotorua)
NZ$52 Adult NZ$26 Child
Take a wander through Te Puia, New Zealand’s Maori Culture Centre, where you will have the opportunity to view the awesome power of the Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley... and much more!
Tarawera and Lakes Tour on the Rotorua Duck (Rotorua)
NZ$89 Adult NZ$55 Child
Discover Rotorua’s spectacular lakes area from the comfort of a fully restored World War II amphibious vehicle, able to travel on land and water. A 90 minute fun-filled and scenic journey that ventures onto the three Rotorua lakes, and is accompanied by an entertaining and informative commentary.
Hobbiton Movie Set Tour (Rotorua)
NZ$114 Adult NZ$74.50 Child
Discover the real Middle-earth on the most picturesque private farmland near Matamata in the North Island of New Zealand, where you can visit the Hobbiton Movie Set from The Lord of the Rings film trilogy in a fascinating two-hour guided tour.
Bookings
The excursions can be booked through your Travel Director. You will be asked during the early part of your tour to name those that you may wish to join, as advance reservations are often necessary. Please note that occasionally weather or seasonal conditions may not permit their operation. Some also depend on a minimum number of participants and suitable time being available.
Prices
Prices indicated are Australian or New Zealand dollars
Prices are valid from 1 October 2017. Optional experience pricing is indicated in Australian dollars or New Zealand dollars depending on the country of operation and may be subject to change. Please note that reduced rates for pensioners or children may apply on some tours. Prices are inclusive of GST.
