Northern Spotlight

Northern Spotlight

From glorious bays and beaches to volcanic springs, bubbling mud pools, rolling vineyards and lavender fields; from art deco culture to colourful Maori traditions and from stunning film locations to vast lakes and snow-capped mountains, New Zealand's North Island will surprise and captivate you.

This fully escorted tour provides a great introduction to New Zealand and includes visits to some of the country's most breathtaking sites, including the mighty Huka Falls and Lake Taupo. Get a feel for kiwi history with visits to Te Papa in Wellington and the Waitangi Treaty Grounds in the Bay of Islands and immerse yourself in culture at a traditional hangi. Throw in some fabulous beaches and the cosmopolitan city of Auckland and you have all the ingredients for the perfect holiday.

What's Included:

• Return flights.
• 7 nights in hotels and 3 in flight (accommodation as specified or similar).
• Mixed meal plan basis.
• Selected excursions, touring and transfers.
• Services of an experienced tour manager.
• Hotel porterage (one bag per person).

Day 1 - 3: London - Auckland

Make your way to London Heathrow for your scheduled flight to Auckland.

Day 3: Welcome to Auckland

On arrival in Auckland you will be transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore Auckland. Perhaps you would like to visit the Sky Tower, for extensive views of greater Auckland including visual and audio displays detailing the history of New Zealand’s largest city. Tonight enjoy a Welcome Reception with your Tour Director.
Overnight - Mercure Hotel

Day 4: Auckland - Bay of Islands

Depart Auckland and travel along the Hibiscus Coast 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’ formation. The return cruise to Paihia meanders through picturesque islands – see secluded bays and keep your eyes peeled for the marine life.
Overnight - Copthorne Hotel & Resort Meals - Breakfast & Dinner

Day 5: Bay of Islands: Day of Leisure

You have a free day to experience the beauty of the Bay of Islands. Perhaps go dolphin watching, take a coach trip to Cape Reinga, via idyllic 90 Mile Beach or a day of sailing or even a guided sea-kayaking trip.
Overnight - Copthorne Hotel & Resort Meals - Breakfast & Dinner

Day 6: Bay of Islands - Auckland

You have the opportunity to visit the Waitangi Treaty Reserve which is of great historical importance, as this is where New Zealand’s founding document, the Treaty of Waitangi, was signed. You will have time to explore the Reserve and take in highlights such as the magnificent Maori War Canoe and Meeting House (Marae). This afternoon enjoy the lush farmland scenery as you return to Auckland.
Overnight - Mercure Hotel Meals - Breakfast & Dinner

Day 7: Auckland - Rotorua

Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Auckland then journey south through the Waikato district. Discover the incredible Glow Worm Grotto on a guided underground boat trip. This afternoon travel to Rotorua. Tonight enjoy an evening of fun and laughter and gain an insight into traditional Maori culture, followed by a delicious buffet dinner at the Tamaki Family Marae.
Overnight - Ibis Hotel Meals - Breakfast & Dinner

Day 8: Rotorua Sights

Visit the Agrodome Sheep Show for a sample of farm life. See the art of sheep shearing, sheepdog demonstrations, cow milking, bottle feeding lambs and an exciting sheep auction. Then there is the opportunity to visit Rainbow Springs Nature Park, where with a local guide you will discover native bush, ferns and trees that grow around the crystal clear mineral water springs. You may even spot a kiwi, New Zealand’s national icon. Or perhaps Te Puia for a guided tour through the geothermal valley. Overnight - Ibis Hotel Meals - Breakfast

Day 9: Rotorua - Wellington

This morning depart Rotorua travelling south to Wairakei and on to Taupo, in the very heart of the North Island. Stop to view mighty Huka Falls before following the eastern shoreline of Lake Taupo. Continue through rich farming lands into the capital city Wellington. This evening celebrate your holiday at dinner with your Tour Director and new-found friends
Overnight - Travelodge Meals - Breakfast & Dinner

Day 10: Wellington - London

This morning enjoy a sightseeing tour of Wellington. Take in the panoramic views from the top of Mt. Victoria. There will be time to explore the Parliament buildings and the Beehive, home to New Zealand’s politicians. Visit Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand and explore the fascinating exhibits at your leisure, including their unique Marae or Maori Meeting House. Later you will be transferred to Wellington Airport to connect with your onward flight Meals - Breakfast