Day : 1
Arrive Wellington (2 nights)
Number of Days : 1
Ease in to the culinary capital of New Zealand - a Hidden Journey through New Zealand's North Island, delving into the rich Maori culture, island sanctuaries and volcanic landscapes of this island nation. On arrival, you will be met by private car and transferred to your hotel. The afternoon is yours at leisure to breathe in the aromas of Wellington's unique coffee and craft brew culture, or wander around the waterfront to Oriental Bay before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception and dinner.
Day : 2
Wellington Free Time
Number of Days : 1
Spend the day at leisure exploring the Capital of Cool on your terms. Enjoy a panoramic view of the city and harbour from the Mount Victoria Lookout. Visit Te Papa, Museum of New Zealand, to gain fascinating insight into New Zealand's unique history. Take a ride on Wellington's famous Cable Car from Lambton Quay all the way up to Kelburn, ambling back down to the city through the picturesque Botanic Garden. Or go behind the scenes and experience a world of imagination and special effects at Weta Cave - the artistic geniuses behind the Lord of the Rings and Hobbits trilogies. Your Travel Director will assist you with guidance on how to make the most of your free time and help you book all your chosen Optional Experiences. This evening is yours to indulge in the culinary delights of Wellington. Boho chic in Cuba Street will appeal to the inner hipster in you, visit one of the markets or perhaps head to Courtenay Place to dine at one of Welly's tucked-away bars or quirky cafés.
Day : 3
Wellington - Taupo
Number of Days : 1
Drive along the rugged Kapiti Coast - winding past sun-kissed beaches, lush forests and the dairy farms of the Manawatu to catch a glimpse of the three active volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park, rising starkly from the surrounding plateau of tussock and near-desert. From the volatile earth's crust came Lake Taupo, our next stop and New Zealand's largest lake which now lies peaceful within the caldera of a volcano. Before arriving at our hotel, we'll stop in to view the raging Huka Falls and pass the Wairakei Geothermal Power Station.
Day : 4
Taupo - Rotorua (2 nights)
Number of Days : 1
A leisurely start to our day could see you catch the big one if you try your hand at trout fishing or enjoy a ramble around the pretty lakeside town of Taupo before heading to nearby Rotorua. Here we will delve into the fascinating culture and rituals of the Maori people against the backdrop of some of New Zealand's most dramatic volcanic landscapes - sizzling geysers, bubbling mud pools and colourful rocks alongside which the local Maori people have lived for centuries. We enjoy unique insights into local customs like the Hongi greeting, as well as learn some traditional words, before enjoying a Be My Guest traditional Maori Hangi meal cooked in the ground using geothermal steam.
Day : 5
Rotorua Sightseeing
Number of Days : 1
Meet New Zealand's woolly flock at the highly entertaining Agrodome Farm Show, where you will witness the art of sheep shearing, sheepdog trials, cow milking, bottle feeding of lambs and even a sheep auction. Come face-to-face with New Zealand's extraordinarily unique wildlife at the Rainbow Springs Nature Park and explore the natural heritage of these Pacific islands, even spotting a shy kiwi or two if you're lucky. Our day concludes with a special visit to Whakarewarewa Living Village where we will enjoy in-depth insights into the lives of the Maori people and the special bond they share with this land.
Day : 6
Rotorua - Coromandel
Number of Days : 1
The iridescent cave walls of Waitomo Caves are our first stop today as we join a Local Specialist to navigate the dark depths that provide sanctuary to millions of glow worms. See the beauty of Footwhistle Cave and dramatic cave formations before heading back to 'Living Earth' and through the rolling farmlands of Waikato to Coromandel and Puka Park Resort. Set deep within the lush native bush on the slopes of Mount Pauanui, our sanctuary tonight is in romantic Tree Hut Chalets.
Day : 7
Coromandel - Auckland
Number of Days : 1
A lazy start to our day sees us travel to the City of Sails. Ease into laid-back Auckland vibes after a sightseeing tour of the city, with your afternoon at leisure to explore on your own terms. Walk along the picturesque promenade of Mission Bay. Catch a glimpse of the volcanic Rangitoto Island. Or catch a ferry to Devonport for a delicious fresh seafood lunch perhaps.
Day : 8
Auckland - Bay of Islands (2 nights)
Number of Days : 1
The golden sands of Orewa along the scenic Hibiscus Coast is our first stop today, before continuing to the lush native forest of Waipoua, home to the largest Kauri tree in existence, Tane Mahuta, which for over 2,000 years has towered over the forest floor. Venturing deep into the forest, a Local Specialist Maori guide explains the heritage and fascinating legends of these mighty trees. Bidding farewell to The Lord of the Forest and the Kauri giants before him, we head to our waterfront resort in the subtropical Bay of Islands and enjoy a delicious dinner together.
Day : 9
Bay of Islands
Number of Days : 1
Wake up in paradise. The picture-perfect setting of golden beaches, azure waters and historic villages is ours to explore today as we set off by ferry across the harbour to Russell, New Zealand's first permanent European settlement and sea port where we will enjoy a guided tour with a Local Specialist into this town's fascinating settler and seafaring heritage. We enjoy the rest of the day at leisure meandering through the town's beautiful art galleries and quaint streets, going on one of the many walking tours, or simply relaxing in historic surrounds.
Day : 10
Bay of Islands - Auckland
Number of Days : 1
The wind in our hair, we set forth across the Bay of Islands, cruising to the Hole in the Rock where Maori legend has it was the landing place of the canoe Tunui-a-rangi before it went to Ngunguru and Whangarei. We see historic Cape Brett along our exploration of some of the 165 islands in the bay, spending time in the pretty tourist town of Paihia to peruse the local craft shops, amble along the beachfront or just relax over a coffee with new friends. Tonight, we celebrate our Hidden Journey through New Zealand's picturesque North Island at a Farewell Dinner in Auckland.
Day : 11
Depart Auckland
Number of Days : 1
For now, it's a fond haera ra from 100% Pure New Zealand. Our Hidden Journey has come to an end and we transfer you to Auckland Airport for your onward flight (fights anytime).
