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Embark on the trip of a lifetime and discover the diverse wonders of New Zealand on this expertly designed 18-day self drive tour. Enjoy luxurious stays in five-star hotels, charming boutique accommodations, and scenic lodges. Begin in Auckland with vibrant city life and a walking tour on Waiheke Island. Head north to the Bay of Islands and Hokianga for deep Māori cultural experiences and encounters with ancient kauri forests. Continue through the boutique wine region of Matakana, relax on the pristine beaches of the Coromandel, and explore Rotorua’s geothermal landscapes, highlighted by an unforgettable Māori evening celebration. Fly to Nelson to discover the golden coastline of Abel Tasman National Park, a scenic rail journey – the Coastal Pacific to Christchurch. The tour concludes with time to unwind and explore in Christchurch before departure.
Welcome to New Zealand! Upon arrival you will be picked up for your private transfer from Auckland International Airport to your hotel.
AUCKLAND / TAMAKI MAKAURAU – an exciting, sporting and cultural city, sprawled on a narrow isthmus, between two harbours. The Waitemata and Manukau Harbours, are a main feature of the city, along with numerous volcanic cones such as Mount Eden and Rangitoto Island. The city’s many beaches, marinas and parks, make it ideal for outdoor pursuits such as yachting, rugby, cricket or a day at the beach. The Auckland metropolitan area is New Zealand’s biggest city, and the population mix of European, Māori, and Pacific Islander, make Auckland the largest Polynesian city in the World.
Your adventure begins with a ferry trip to Waiheke Island from downtown Auckland with Fullers360 Waiheke Island Ferry – Return Tickets. The ride is about 40 minutes and offers great views of the city skyline and the Waitemata Harbour. Waiheke Island is known for its beautiful vineyards, olive groves, and stunning beaches, making it a perfect day trip or weekend escape.
Meet your Terra and Tide guide on arrival at Matiatia Ferry Terminal for a Double Headland Walk tour. Experience the twin headlands of Matiatia and Church Bay, walking in a small group with an expert local guide. This walk consists of two parts, with lunch in between. Walk around the Matiatia headland, enjoying beautiful views of the Hauraki Gulf Islands, Great Barrier Island and Coromandel Peninsula. You’ll spot sea birds, native plants and, if you’re lucky, orcas or dolphins. Learn about the history and ecology of the Hauraki Gulf and Waiheke Island, its conservation projects and island life. Then walk through Pio Rehutai Reserve and around the Church Bay headland through a sculpture park and a stunning bush reserve. You’ll pass hidden coves and amazing homes, as you enjoy views of the city and sea.
Today you’ll pick up your Intermediate SUV Budget Rental Car and head north from the city and discover the breathtaking beauty of Northland, New Zealand’s ‘Winterless North.’ This vibrant region offers stunning beaches, lush subtropical forests, and rich Māori culture. Explore the famous Bay of Islands, a paradise for sailing, dolphin cruises, and island hopping. Experience the ancient history at Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where New Zealand’s story began. Wander through charming coastal towns, indulge in fresh seafood, and marvel at untouched natural landscapes. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, Northland promises unforgettable experiences in a spectacular setting.
BAY OF ISLANDS/IPIPIRI – This was the name given by Captain James Cook when he described the area 200 years ago. The Bay, studded with over 150 islands, is a “drowned river system,” an area where the sea has invaded and drowned a number of river valleys. Its sheltered waters offer some of the finest boating and fishing to be found anywhere. The Bay of Islands was the site of the first Christian Mission station in New Zealand, as well as having New Zealand’s first capital city, Russell, which is now a quiet little seaside village.
Fullers Great Sights (BOI)|Hole in the Rock Cruise: In the afternoon you will jump aboard a purpose-built catamaran for a cruise to the famous Hole in the Rock. You’ll sail through pristine islands and along the Cape Brett Peninsula, with an excellent chance to see dolphins and other marine life. The tour also includes a stop at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, where you can relax on the beach or take a short walk for panoramic views.
Wake up in the Bay of Islands and take to the skies with Salt Air’s Cape Reinga Fly/Drive tour offering a spectacular perspective of New Zealand’s Far North. You’ll take an initial scenic flight over Ninety Mile Beach, land at a private airstrip, and then board a vehicle for a guided tour of the Cape Reinga lighthouse and Te Paki sand dunes, where you can sandboard. The return flight provides breathtaking views of the east coast, including remote white sand beaches and the Bay of Islands.
Back in Paihia, we recommend enhancing your experience with an optional Waitangi Experience Pass to the Waitangi National Trust. This pass offers a rich insight into New Zealand’s cultural heritage at the birthplace of the nation.
Today, this is a great trip that takes you from the beautiful eastern Bay of Islands to the more rugged and remote west coast. You’ll travel inland through scenic rural routes and forests. Omapere is a peaceful town on the Hokianga Harbour, famous for its massive sand dunes and its significance in Māori legend and history.
NORTHLAND/TE TAI TOKERAU – Spring in subtropical Northland brings the senses alive. Imagine ocean waves lapping on white sand beaches with the warming sun on your skin. Listen to native birdsong in ancient kauri forests. Savour the taste of luscious fruits and fresh seafood and inhale the fragrance of early blooms. The subtropical Northland experience promises a contrast between the relative sophistication of the east coast and the soulful simplicity of the west coast.
Tonight, you will join one of our favourite tours in this area of Northland: Footprints Waipoua/Crossings Hokianga Twilight Encounter. This world-acclaimed night tour takes you on a journey through the ancient Waipoua Forest with a local Māori guide. The tour begins with a prayer seeking permission to enter the forest. As day transitions to night, your senses will be enhanced as you meet some of the world’s oldest and largest kauri trees, including the majestic Tane Mahuta, with your guide sharing legends and songs.
Wake up in beautiful Hokianga with a free day to chill out or get exploring. You could take a stroll along the sandy shores of Opononi Beach, visit the famous giant Kauri trees, or hop on a kayak to paddle around the peaceful harbor.
We also suggest booking an optional Manea Footprints of Kupe tour. This unique experience offers an engaging insight into the legendary journey of Kupe, connecting you to the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes of the region. It’s a wonderful way to deepen your understanding and appreciation of the area’s history, should you choose to explore it.
This is a truly iconic journey that takes you through some of the most significant and beautiful landscapes of the North Island. Departing from the serene shores of Omapere and the Hokianga Harbour, the route heads south into the heart of the Waipoua Forest. This is the home of Tāne Mahuta, New Zealand’s largest living kauri tree, and the drive through the ancient forest is a deeply spiritual and humbling experience. After leaving the forest, the journey continues through the rolling green hills and picturesque farmland of Northland. The final leg of the trip transitions into the boutique wine country of Matakana, a beautiful area known for its vineyards, art galleries, and lively farmers’ market.
MATAKANA – Just 40 minutes north of Auckland lies the picturesque Matakana wine region, the home of over 30 boutique vineyards, olive groves, restaurants and the famous Matakana Village and Farmers’ Market featuring locally grown food and produce. Settled in the 1840’s Matakana has a proud history and strong sense of community.
Take a self-guided Sculptureum Experience in the Garden of Creative Diversity which has paths leading through the Classical and Reflective gardens. Then move into the 5 indoor art galleries, all of which follow a different theme. Following that, discover the two rear gardens which will delight, with their interesting mix of sculpture, artwork, and stunning palm trees. Finish off with the sixth gallery which contains the stunning glass chandelier by American artist, Dale Chihuly.
This journey takes you from the rolling farmlands of Matakana to the rugged, coastal beauty of the Coromandel. The route heads south from Matakana before turning east, weaving through the lush, bush-clad hills of the Coromandel Peninsula. The journey culminates as you arrive at the beautiful Cooks Beach, a tranquil settlement known for its calm waters and rich history. This trip is a perfect way to experience the diverse and evolving landscapes of the North Island.
COOKS BEACH – is a serene three-kilometre stretch of white sand on the Coromandel’s Mercury Bay, where footprints of history meet calm estuarine waters. It was here that Māori navigator Kupe is said to have landed, and where Captain James Cook observed the 1769 transit of Mercury. You can kayak into the peaceful Purangi Estuary, take a coastal walk up to Shakespeare Cliff for sweeping bay views, or relax by the water’s edge in a quiet, family-friendly coastal village.
Start the day with a short drive to Whitianga to the Ocean Leopard Tours meeting point. This journey offers a different perspective on the stunning Coromandel Peninsula. The drive from Cooks Beach takes you on a longer, more adventurous route around Mercury Bay. The road is scenic and winding, carving its way through beautiful, bush-clad hills and past rolling farmland. The journey provides a peaceful escape from the main highway and showcases the rugged, untamed beauty of the peninsula’s interior. As you approach Whitianga, the landscape opens up to reveal the picturesque harbour and the bustling seaside town.
Jump aboard the Ocean Leopard Tours – Cathedral Cove & Volcanic Coast Tour. This is a perfect way to experience the famous sights of the Coromandel from the water. Your skipper will take you on a journey past towering cliffs and into magnificent sea caves. The tour takes you to the famous Cathedral Cove, and if conditions allow, you’ll be able to enter a huge blowhole. The small, fast boat ensures a thrilling and personal experience.
The rest of the day is free in the Coromandel. We would also suggest visiting Hot Water Beach, where at low tide you can dig your own hot pool in the sand and relax in the warm water. For something more adventurous, try kayaking along the coastline or explore the native forest on the Driving Creek Railway. If you prefer a peaceful day, simply enjoy the golden sands of Hahei Beach or wander through Coromandel Town, where charming cafés and local shops create a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you choose to relax or explore, Coromandel’s unique mix of nature and culture makes for an unforgettable day.
Hit the road and travel from the beautiful, tranquil shores of Cooks Beach to the dynamic heart of New Zealand’s geothermal activity. Leaving the golden sands and relaxed atmosphere of the Coromandel, the route heads south, weaving through lush, green farmlands and rolling hills of the Waikato region. As you approach your destination, the landscape dramatically changes, and you’ll begin to see signs of the powerful forces at play beneath the earth’s surface. The air will become infused with the scent of sulfur, and you’ll pass steaming vents and bubbling mud pools. Arriving in Rotorua, you’ll find a city defined by its geothermal wonders and its deep connection to Māori culture.
On your way we suggest adding in the Hobbiton Movie Set Tour. You can tour through the picturesque sheep farm to the movie set, where you’ll see the Hobbit Holes, the Mill, and the Party Tree.
ROTORUA – located on a volcanic plateau, and formerly a spa town, Rotorua is most famous for its geothermal activity. Rotorua is the main place in New Zealand where aspects of Māori traditions can be seen, from wood carvings, and meeting houses, to a Hangi Dinner and Māori dances. Native and introduced tree species abound locally and combined with several picturesque lakes, Rotorua is a fascinating mix of culture and nature.
Enjoy a free today in Rotorua to relax and soak up the geothermal wonders or choose an optional tour – whether it’s bubbling mud pools, cultural experiences, or thrilling activities, the choice is yours.
Tonight, you will be picked up by Te Pa Tu for an unforgettable evening that celebrates Māori culture and tradition. You’ll be welcomed with a traditional pōwhiri (welcome), and your guide will lead you on a journey through a reconstructed village. The experience includes stories, songs, and demonstrations of Māori life, followed by a powerful cultural performance and a delicious five-course feast. It is an intimate and engaging way to learn about the Māori world.
Today, we have included the Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa – Restoration Journey. This experience is designed to restore your mind, body, and soul. You’ll embark on a journey through various pools, including a hot mineral spring bath, a cold plunge pool, and a geothermally heated mud bath. The spa incorporates Māori healing rituals, with a focus on the healing properties of the water and the connection to the land, providing a tranquil and rejuvenating experience.
The remainder of the day at leisure in Rotorua, dive deeper into the city’s amazing outdoor adventures and natural beauty. You may wish to start with a walk or bike ride through the lush Redwood Forest, enjoying towering trees and peaceful trails. Or select an optional tour tailored to your interests.
Today you will drop your rental car off and depart on Air New Zealand from Rotorua Airport, flying south over the volcanic plateau and the vast expanse of Lake Taupō. Once in Nelson you will be met on arrival and transferred to your accommodation by private transfer.
NELSON/WHAKATU – with its gardens and gorgeous sunsets, looks across Tasman Bay. Streets and Parks are named after Admiral Nelson and his exploits, as well as the names of the ships that brought the first pioneers over from England. Forestry, fruit and fishing are the main focus of Nelson’s port, while to the west, apple orchards, tobacco and hop plantations occupy the land.
Today you will be collected from your Nelson accommodation by Wine Art and Wilderness for a full day Abel Tasman – Water & Walk tour. This guided tour is an immersive way to experience the heart of Abel Tasman National Park. You’ll start with a scenic boat cruise, with your guide providing commentary on the park’s history and ecology. You will then disembark to walk a beautiful section of the coastal track, with plenty of stops for photos and to enjoy the stunning scenery. After a day of exploration, you’ll return to your accommodation, leaving you with unforgettable memories.
Today is yours to explore the sunny city of Nelson at your own pace. Wander through the vibrant arts scene, browse the local markets, or take a scenic stroll along the waterfront. For a bit of nature, head up to the Centre of New Zealand Walk for panoramic views – one of Nelson’s best free activities. If you’d like ideas tailored to your interests or help shaping a full day’s itinerary, contact your consultant for personalised suggestions.
This morning, you’ll be collected from your accommodation in Nelson by private car and enjoy a scenic drive through the picturesque Marlborough region before arriving at Blenheim Train Station for your onward journey to Christchurch.
Jump aboard The Great Journeys of New Zealand Coastal Pacific: Blenheim to Christchurch Scenic Plus. Take a timeless journey of breathtaking beauty along the Pacific Coast from Blenheim to Christchurch. From craggy coastal cliffs and rocky outcrops to modern vineyards and rustic farmsteads, the Coastal Pacific journey cruises through the full spectrum of New Zealand culture and character. Throw in a healthy dose of seals, seagulls and the possibility of dolphins and even whales, you will have an exception day on the Pacific Coastal Railway. With the Scenic Plus experience, explore the unique cultural and culinary flavours of the Pacific coast as it glides by your window. While you ease back and enjoy the seaside scenery and intimate views of Marlborough’s world-famous vineyards, you’ll be served a menu filled with freshly picked ingredients from the lands you pass through.
Upon arrival at Christchurch Train Station you will be met and transferred to your accommodation.
CHRISTCHURCH/OTAUTAHI – Located on a level plain, Christchurch is defined by its historic past and vibrant future. The willow and oak-lined River Avon meanders through its heart, where you can enjoy a punt ride or explore the sprawling Botanic Gardens. Much of the city’s unique charm comes from its blend of old and new; elegant stone buildings sit alongside striking contemporary architecture. Following a series of earthquakes, the city has been thoughtfully and creatively rebuilt, resulting in innovative new spaces like the Transitional Cathedral and Margaret Mahy Playground. This spirit of renewal makes Christchurch an exciting hub for arts, culture, and dining, while its proximity to both the stunning Canterbury Plains and the volcanic Port Hills offers easy access to outdoor adventures.
Today, embark on a breathtaking journey with Canterbury Trails for on the Arthur’s Pass – TranzAlpine Train Experience – one of the world’s most scenic TranzAlpine train ride, traveling through the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island. The journey takes you from the farmlands of the Canterbury Plains through river gorges and into the mountains of Arthur’s Pass, offering incredible views from the open-air viewing carriage. You’ll have time to explore the alpine village before your return trip.
Transferred to Christchurch Airport and leave New Zealand ready to share your extraordinary memories and plan your next trip down to see us.
This tour combines iconic New Zealand experiences: stunning beaches, cultural encounters, day walks, scenic train journeys, and gourmet food into one carefully curated, luxurious, and unforgettable adventure.
Packed with lots of tips, highlights, activities and helpful information of our diverse country.
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