North Island experience

North island experience
The North Island Experience offers the best of the North Island, including the rich cultural experiences unique to New Zealand. It also features activities that explore the North Island’s intriguing geothermal and volcanic origins. 

Day 1: Auckland to Bay of Islands Welcome to New Zealand! This morning, you’re met in Auckland by your guide for the start of your North Island adventure. A scenic drive from the City of Sails takes us to the remote and peaceful Northland region and the beautiful Bay of Islands, where we’ll be based for the next three nights. An afternoon hike, with stunning views of the bay, allows you to stretch your legs after your overseas journey . This evening, we have a relaxed dinner overlooking the bay. (L/D)

Day 2: Sailing on the Bay This morning, board a sailing vessel to explore the picturesque islands that dot the bay. Help set the sails and take the wheel if you choose, or just sit back and relax, watching for the shy little blue penguin and bottle-nosed dolphins resident here. For lunch, we anchor in a secluded island bay where you can step ashore and take a walk, relax on the beach, or have a swim before returning to the mainland for dinner and a restful evening. (B/L/D)

Day 3: Walking through History Giant, ancient kauri trees once dominated the land here; however, early milling has left only a precious handful of protected stands. We spend the morning walking amongst these lords of the forest. This afternoon, a guided tour of the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds and cultural performance provide deeper insight into New Zealand’s Maori and colonial past. (B)  

Day 4: Bay of Islands to Auckland This morning, we bid the Bay farewell and return to Auckland. Along the way, we stop at one of New Zealand’s largest gannet colonies. Perched on cliffs high above a wild surf beach, the colony provides a close-up view of these wonderful birds as they court, breed, and nest. In Auckland, our hotel is in the heart of downtown. Dinner this evening is on your own, so you’re free to explore this vibrant waterfront city. (B/L)

Day 5: Auckland to Coromandel Peninsula Today, we head for the lush and peaceful Coromandel Peninsula. There, a member of an award-winning team of naturalists takes us on a walk through the Coromandel’s subtropical rainforest. On this halfday excursion, we learn about natural Maori medicines, explore historic goldmines, and stand beneath the world’s largest ferns. Our lodging for the next two nights lies in a stunning setting, perched on one of New Zealand’s most picturesque beaches. (B/L/D)

Day 6: Exploring the Peninsula The day is spent enjoying the region. A morning boat tour along the coast uncovers pristine bays with stunning beaches, sea caves and abundant bird life. Back on shore, consider a hike along the coast to a secluded cove featuring beautiful sandstone formations ( ) or follow a snorkel trail that reveals the beauty below. Alternatively, just relax and enjoy the view from your lodge. Your guide is on hand to assist with activities and recommendations for dinner just a short stroll away. (B)

Day 7: Coromandel Peninsula to Rotorua We head south through rich farmland to Rotorua, a cultural center for Maoridom and an active volcanic region. We visit the Rotorua Museum in the historic Bath House where visitors used to come to “take the cures” a century ago, then head to a modern spa facility for a soak in Rotorua’s thermal pools. This evening, explore Eat Street, an al fresco dining precinct offering a range of restaurants a short walk from your hotel. (B)

Day 8: Geothermal Activity Depending on conditions, there are two options for experiencing the region’s volcanic features today. The first is to travel by boat to White Island, an active volcano 30 miles off the eastern coast. We explore the volcano on foot, hosted by professional geothermal guides. If conditions preclude a trip to White Island, we take a scenic flight over the giant crater resulting from the 1886 eruption of Mt. Tarawera, then view some of the active geothermal features of the area by land – boiling lakes, turquoise pools, and hot streams which continue to change and develop. We take a hike in the nearby forest and explore other interesting features of this thermal wonderland. (B/L)

Day 9: Rotorua to Wellington This morning, you’ll fly from Rotorua to Wellington, New Zealand’s picturesque capital city. Wellington is home to Parliament; the country’s spectacular national museum, Te Papa; and a vibrant arts community. For those who wish to take in the city’s cultural and architectural features, your day is free to explore on your own. Our hotel is located in the heart of the city, and we reconvene this evening for our farewell dinner, where we celebrate our trip and our new friendships. (B/D)

Day 10: Homeward Bound On this final morning, depending on your flight schedule, you’ll have time to relax, make final purchases, and enjoy the city’s energy before travelling home or to your next destination. We’re confident you’ll leave New Zealand with special memories and plans for your return. After all, there is the South Island yet to see! (B) n