New Zealand North Island Cultural Discovery

Arrival in Auckland

Welcome to Aotearoa! Arrive at Auckland International Airport and transfer to your centrally located hotel. Settle in and enjoy free time to explore the waterfront or stroll along Queen Street. This evening, join a welcome dinner at a harbour-side restaurant with views of the Waitemata Harbour.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Auckland CBD

Auckland City Highlights

Begin the day with a visit to the iconic Sky Tower for panoramic views across the city and beyond. Explore the vibrant neighbourhoods of Ponsonby and Parnell before an afternoon harbour cruise past Rangitoto Island. The evening is free to explore Auckland's diverse dining scene at your own pace.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Auckland CBD

Auckland to Waitomo & Hobbiton

Depart Auckland and head south to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where thousands of tiny glowworms illuminate the limestone caverns in a magical blue-green light. After lunch, continue to the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata for a guided tour through the Shire, complete with a refreshing drink at the Green Dragon Inn.

Accommodation: Boutique lodge in Matamata

Matamata to Rotorua

Travel to Rotorua, the geothermal capital of New Zealand. Visit Te Puia to witness the mighty Pohutu Geyser and the National School of Maori Arts and Crafts. In the afternoon, explore Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland with its vibrant Champagne Pool and Artist's Palette. The evening features a traditional Maori cultural performance followed by a hangi feast cooked in the earth.

Accommodation: 4-star lakeside hotel in Rotorua

Rotorua Redwoods & Lake Exploration

Start the morning with a peaceful walk through the towering Redwoods Treewalk, a suspended walkway among century-old California Redwoods. Visit the Rotorua Museum at the Government Gardens and take a scenic lakeside drive past the Blue and Green Lakes. The afternoon is free for optional activities such as zorbing, luge rides, or a soak in the Polynesian Spa.

Accommodation: 4-star lakeside hotel in Rotorua

Rotorua to Taupo

Journey south through lush native bush to Taupo, home to New Zealand's largest lake. Stop en route at the thundering Huka Falls, where the Waikato River surges through a narrow canyon. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Taupo to view ancient Maori rock carvings accessible only by water.

Accommodation: Boutique lodge overlooking Lake Taupo

Taupo to Wellington

Travel south along the Desert Road with dramatic views of the Tongariro volcanic plateau and its three volcanoes. Pass through the rolling farmland of the Wairarapa before arriving in Wellington, New Zealand's compact and creative capital. Enjoy an evening walk along the waterfront and dinner at one of Cuba Street's acclaimed restaurants.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Wellington CBD

Wellington City Discovery

Spend the day exploring Wellington's cultural treasures, beginning with Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand's national museum, renowned for its interactive exhibits on Maori culture and natural history. Ride the iconic Wellington Cable Car to the Botanic Gardens for stunning city views. In the afternoon, visit the colourful houses of Mount Victoria and browse the boutique shops of Lambton Quay.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Wellington CBD

Departure from Wellington

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before your transfer to Wellington Airport. Depending on your departure time, there may be an opportunity for last-minute shopping at Wellington's harbourside markets. Farewell and depart with wonderful memories of the North Island.