Coast & Culture

Sample Itinerary (Subject to Change):

Day 1: Depart Canada

Depart Canada today flying Air New Zealand.  You will cross the international dateline and ‘lose’ a day.

Day 3: Arrive Auckland, New Zealand

Haere Mai & welcome to New Zealand.  On arrival in Auckland, make your way to your hotel located in downtown Auckland, the remainder of your day is at your leisure.

Days 3-5: Auckland & Waiheke Island

You have two days to explore Auckland before you hit the road.  We have included an excursion one day to nearby Waiheke Island including ferry transfers and a hop on hop off bus explorer.

Day 6: Auckland to Coromandel

Collect your rental car today near the airport and drive south to your the Coromandel peninsula and the cute seaside town and coastal playground of Hahei, a popular spot with locals.  (Auckland to Hahei drive approximately 165km / 2.5-3 hours).

Day 7: The Coromandel

Your day is at leisure to relax in the Coromandel. The relatively sheltered beach is ideal for swimming, boating and fishing. There is also a marine reserve nearby, making it a popular destination for diving, snorkelling and kayaking. Reefs, caves and arches are ideal for a variety of plants, fish, molluscs and crustaceans. From your base in Hahei you are a short drive away from the start of the track to scenic Cathedral Cove and its limestone arch (you might recognise it from Microsoft screensavers), Hot Water Beach known for its natural springs where you can dig your own spa at low tide and at the southern end of Hahei beach, the Te Pare historic reserve is the site of an ancient Maori pā (fortified village).

Day 8: Coromandel to Rotorua

Travel south today, you may choose to stop for coffee in the quirky small town of Tirau, known for its giant sheep sculptures that make it the unofficial the ‘corrugated iron capital of the world’. Arrive in Rotorua, the geothermal and cultural heart of the north island. (Drive approximately 215km / 3 hours).

Days 9-10: Rotorua

You have two days to explore the Rotorua region, filled with lakes, rivers, forests, bubbling mud, geysers and many adventures such as riding the luge, zorbing, ziplining, hiking, rafting, mountain biking learning about Maori culture, customs and traditions or soak in one of the many hot pools. We have included two local experiences during your stay: Redwoods Treewalk in Whakarewarewa Forest – walk above 120 year old Redwoods across suspended bridges and platforms as well as a Maori Cultural Experience as an introduction to the heritage and culture of Maori, the indigenous people of New Zealand one evening with dinner.

Day 11: Rotorua to Gisborne

Head southeast today to the place in New Zealand that sees the sun rise first, Gisborne. (Drive approximately 275km / 4.5 hours).

Day 12: Gisborne

Spend a couple of days in Gisborne, drive along the coast, watch the sun rise at Maunga Hikurangi (as sacred mountain) for breathtaking views and a rich cultural experience, hike, surf, relax at local beaches, hand feed wild stingrays and eagle rays in their natural habitat, slide down New Zealand’s largest natural waterslide or discover local wineries and breweries. If you stroll along the waterfront here you can see historical statues and plaques that commemorate events in New Zealand’s history including the arrival of Captain Cook. You can also learn about the area and culture at the Tairāwhiti Museum.

Day 13: Gisborne to Napier

Today is a nice scenic drive following parts of the coast to the Hawke’s Bay. (Drive approximately 215km / 3 hours).

Day 14: Napier

Discover the town famous for its Art Deco buildings and wineries, but also has a number of wonderful cycle trails, quirky shops and cafes. Famous wineries include Church Road, Mission Estate, Linden Estate, Brookfields, Sacred Hill and Black Barn but there are so many more. The seafront walkway of Marine Parade is perfect to stroll or cycle. This 3km walk runs alongside Napier Beach and is a hot spot for both locals and visitors with scenic views of the Pacific Ocean, Cape Kidnappers, and Mahia Peninsula.

Day 15: Napier to Wellington

Leave the Hawke’s Bay and travel to the southernmost city in the North Island, Wellington – which also happens to be New Zealand’s cool little capital city. (Drive approximately 320km / 4 hours).

Days 16-17: Wellington

Spend two days discovering Wellington and its vibrant mix of culture, nature and adventure at your leisure. This compact city has plenty to see, we highly recommend checking out the national museum, take the Wellington Cable car or explore the eco sanctuary Zealandia by day of night. If you are interested in getting behind-the-scenes of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies, visit Weta Studios.  Wellington also has plenty of great food and wine, you can take a walking foodie tour to be guided through some local favourites (all sightseeing additional cost).

Day 18: Wellington to Taupo

Today is a big travel day, depart early and travel north to Lake Taupo. (Drive approximately 375km / 5 hours).

Days 19-20: Lake Taupo

Spend a day exploring Taupo and surrounds at your leisure.  You may visit the Huka Falls, cruise on the lake, raft the Tongariro River, sail or kayak to Maori rock carvings or choose from one of the adventurous bungy jumping, jet boating, skydiving, mountain biking or hiking.

Day 21: Taupo to Auckland, Depart New Zealand

Your kiwi adventure comes to an end today, but we have one last treat in store along the way. Rise early (don’t worry you will have time to sleep on the plan tonight) and hit the road. You have a choice today between either stopping at the Waitomo Glowworm Caves for a guided tour through the Limestone caverns or Hobbiton Movie Set & Farm. (Drive time will depend on which option you take, between approximately 3.5-4.5 hours).

Return your car around 4pm near Auckland Airport and make your way to your flight home to Canada that departs at  approximately 8pm.

Optional Cook Islands Extension:  Auckland (New Zealand) to Rarotonga (Cook Islands)

If you choose to extend your trip and add an island stay, instead of flying home today you will fly to the Cook Islands.  On arrival in Rarotonga you will be met and transferred to your island accommodation.  The rest of your day is free.

Days 22-24: Rarotonga

You have four days to relax and enjoy island time! Do as much exploring or as little as you please while in Rarotonga. Enjoy beaches, hiking the rugged interior, watching the sun set or visiting the local market on a Saturday. This island is just 32km around and exploring is simple, they have just two buses that travel either clockwise or anti-clockwise! Your accommodation is located on 4-acres of lush tropical gardens and offers just 24 villas on Rarotonga’s sunset coast, across from the Aroa Beach & Marine Reserve. This self-catering property has a pool, communal BBQ and kayaks. Each villa also includes air conditioning, kitchenette and an outdoor patio.

During your stay we have also included the following excursion in your package: Muri Lagoon Cruise  & Snorkel – enjoy a day on the water in a beautiful sheltered lagoon. with clear, shallow water and a glass bottom boat cruise. This natural aquarium has myriads of colourful fish and snorkelling is the ideal way to explore up close. After snorkelling, head to a small island to relax and enjoy a delicious barbeque lunch.

Day 25: Depart Rarotonga, Cook Islands

Your incredible journey comes to an end today.  You will be transferred from your hotel to Rarotonga Airport where your journey home to Canada begins.

To extend your time in New Zealand, perhaps add the Bay of Islands or the South Island as well, contact our New Zealand and Cook Islands Destination Specialists to plan a customised trip.

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Flying with Air New Zealand

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Ask us about extra comfort when you upgrade:

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