7-Day North Island Explorer Tour

Haere Mai (Welcome) to Aotearoa New Zealand! Your journey begins in vibrant Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland, New Zealand’s largest and most cosmopolitan city. Known as the City of Sails, Auckland boasts two stunning harbours, sparkling waterfront views, and an incredible volcanic landscape with more than 44 dormant volcanoes waiting to be explored.

After arriving, make your way to the centrally located Oaks Auckland Hotel in Downtown Auckland, the perfect base to start your adventure. Check in, drop your bags, and take a moment to soak in the city atmosphere. At reception, you’ll be greeted with a welcome letter containing essential tour details. This evening, meet your fellow travellers and friendly tour guide at 6:15pm before heading out at 6:30pm for a delicious welcome dinner. It’s the perfect way to connect, relax, and get excited for the unforgettable days ahead.

• Accommodation: Oaks Hotel, Beach Road, Auckland (or similar hotel)
• Meals Included: Dinner

This morning, we depart Auckland for a day filled with unforgettable sights and experiences. Our first stop is Waitomo, world-renowned for its enchanting glowworm caves. Step aboard a boat and glide silently through a magical cavern illuminated by thousands of tiny glowworms, then wander through ancient limestone formations that have been millions of years in the making. This breathtaking natural wonder was even featured by Sir David Attenborough during his visit to Aotearoa, New Zealand.

From here, we continue to Rotorua, a geothermal paradise and vibrant centre of Māori culture. Discover bubbling mud pools, erupting geysers, and the rich traditions that make Rotorua one of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations. This evening, we’ll gather for a delicious group dinner before settling in for a relaxing night in Rotorua – ready to embrace tomorrow’s adventures.

• Accommodation: Distinction Rotorua (or similar hotel)
• Included Activities: Waitomo Glowworm Caves Experience
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning, we journey along the shores of Lake Rotorua to a stunning lookout over the dramatic Mount Tarawera, once home to the legendary Pink and White Terraces before a devastating 1886 eruption reshaped the landscape. Our exploration continues at the Buried Village of Te Wairoa, New Zealand’s most visited archaeological site, where we’ll uncover the fascinating stories and preserved remains of this fateful event.

In the afternoon, we’ll wander beneath the towering Redwoods and magnificent Douglas firs of Whakarewarewa Forest, surrounded by New Zealand’s iconic silver ferns. You’ll then have free time to explore Rotorua at your own pace, perhaps stroll through Kuirau Park to see bubbling mud pools and steaming lakes, wander the elegant Government Gardens, soak in the healing waters of the Polynesian Spa, or take the Skyline Gondola for sweeping views over this geothermal wonderland.

• Accommodation: Distinction Rotorua (or similar hotel)
• Included Activities: Lake Tarawera, The Buried Village and Whakarewarewa Forest
• Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, we head to the serene shores of Lake Aniwhenua in Murupara for an authentic taste of the real New Zealand. Here, you’ll be welcomed by the passionate Māori whānau (family) who own Kohutapu Lodge, a community focused haven, dedicated to revitalising the local town through inspiring cultural and social initiatives.

Your experience begins with a guided visit to sacred Māori rock carvings, rich with ancestral stories, before returning to the lodge to watch the preparation of a traditional ground-cooked hāngi. As the earth oven is lifted, the aromas will tempt your senses, and once served, you’ll enjoy what may be the most unforgettable meal of your trip. After this heart-warming experience, we continue to Taupō to witness the strikingly blue Huka Falls and take in sweeping views over the magnificent Lake Taupō, New Zealand’s largest lake.

• Accommodation: Anchorage Taupo (or similar hotel)
• Included Activities: Kohutapu Lodge Tribal Tour, Huka Falls
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Hangi Lunch

After breakfast, we journey to the sun-soaked Hawke’s Bay region, home to some of New Zealand’s finest wineries. In Napier, a visit to the historic Mission Estate Winery is a must. Enjoy a wine tasting followed by a leisurely lunch featuring exquisite local cuisine, paired perfectly with award-winning wines, all while soaking up the region’s golden sunshine and stunning vineyard vistas.

Later, we’ll make a short drive to the charming coastal town of Napier, renowned for its beautifully preserved Art Deco architecture. Stroll along the tree-lined promenade, explore the boutique shops, or dine on freshly caught seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants, all while enjoying views of the sparkling Pacific Ocean. It’s the perfect blend of culture, culinary delights, and coastal charm.

• Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Te Pania (or similar hotel)
• Included Activities: Mission Estate Winery Tasting & Lunch
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning, we depart Napier and journey south to Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital, famed for its café culture and arguably the country’s best coffee. Along the way, we stop in the Wairarapa’s oldest town, Greytown, for lunch. With beautifully restored Victorian buildings and charming boutique shops, it’s the perfect spot to stretch your legs and soak up the village’s quaint atmosphere before continuing to Wellington.

With a population of just under 220,000, Wellington perfectly blends a relaxed coastal vibe with a thriving arts and cultural scene. The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure, perhaps wander along the waterfront, browse local galleries, or visit Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum, home to fascinating exhibits that celebrate the country’s unique history, culture, and natural wonders.

• Accommodation: Naumi Wellington (or similar hotel)
• Meals Included: Breakfast

Today is the final day of the tour, our trip has come to an end. Enjoy breakfast before saying a fond farewell to your tour guide and all your travel companions or new friends. Whether you’re travelling home today or staying in Wellington for longer, we hope you leave this tour with lasting memories, a full photo gallery and some new friends for life.

• Meals Included: Breakfast