THE GREAT NORTHERN
ROAD TRIP

‍Day 1 – We start off today with a very informal welcome meeting in Auckland. A chance for everyone to say ‘Kia Ora’ (hello in Māori), for us to introduce ourselves, tell you a little bit more about the coming days and answer any questions you may have. We’ll pack up our trailer, introduce you to the van and hit the road.  

It’s not a long drive to our first adventure. As we cross the Harbour Bridge, the stunning skyline of Auckland fades into the background, replaced by the lush green landscapes that lead us to Matakana. The drive is dotted with charming rural scenery, and soon we’ll be surrounded by vineyards, markets, and the coastal beauty of the area. Matakana is a foodie and wine heaven – the perfect place for our welcome lunch.  

We then travel north alongside the Wairoa River and through Dargaville before arriving at our destination for the first night in the Kauri Coast.

After getting settled in here we will cook dinner for you and look forward to our evening adventure...

Tonight, as an optional (included) activity, we will take you into the Trounsen Forest to search for Kiwi once the sun has gone down. This is a very special experience - most New Zealanders have never seen a Kiwi in the wild. We will have a 50% chance of seeing one. Whilst walking amongst a forest of enormous Kauri trees we will need to be very quiet as we shine our red torch lights (provided) through the undergrowth in our search for these shy, nocturnal birds. The flightless Kiwi bird is a ‘taonga’ (treasure) to Māori, who have strong cultural, spiritual and historic associations with it. It is also an icon here in NZ, symbolising the uniqueness of New Zealand's wildlife and natural heritage.

‍Included L,D (Lunch, Dinner)
‍Camping: Kauri Coast
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‍‍Day 2 – We head north and meander our way through the Waipoua Kauri Forest, making a stop at majestic Tāne Mahuta, the ‘Lord of the Forest’ and New Zealand’s largest living Kauri tree.

Keep looking up as you take the short walk through the forest, and you will soon see this magnificent tree towering over all of the others. At over 2000 years old, it is hard not to be in awe of Tāne Mahuta’s size, strength and ancient presence. Get somebody to take a photo of you with the tree behind - you’ll appear very small indeed.

We'll then head up to Arai Te Uru - the south head of the Hokianga Harbour. This headland offers spectacular views of the Tasman Sea and over to the giant sand dunes on the opposite side of the harbour entrance.

We travel through Omapere and Opononi, two small towns that were well known in the 1950’s for a friendly dolphin called ‘Opo’. She was a young Bottlenose dolphin that enjoyed playing and spending time with humans in the harbour here. Then we make a stop to visit the Koutu Boulders. This short pleasant walk, at low tide will have you marveling at the extraordinary landscape, where cyclindal natural sculptured rocks make for a great photo opportunity.

Heading around the northern part of the Hokianga Harbour, we make our way over to the east coast where we base ourselves for 3 nights at northern end of Doubtless Bay in a small settlement called Whatuwhiwhi.

‍Included B,D
Camping: Whatuwhiwhi
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‍‍Day 3 – With our campsite only a stone’s throw from Perehipe Beach, you might just want to relax here today. With safe swimming and water sports such as kayaking and paddle boarding, it is truly a paradise to enjoy, relax and unwind in. If you're feeling energetic, take a walk along this stretch of coastline - Tokerau Beach has 18km of uninterrupted sandy beach to discover.

Also, only 2km from camp is the Carrington Estate World Class Golf Course and Karikari Estate Winery.

We will, weather permitting go and explore some of the further bays, scenic reserves and lookouts situated around this peninsula, including stunning and remote Maitai Bay and Waikato Bay, a heart shaped bay with two beautiful beaches. We’ll be on the lookout for dolphins and orcas who often come close to shore and chase the stingrays along the beach - an awe inspiring sight to see. Come along for the ride around the largely unexplored KariKari Peninsula.‍

‍Included B,D
Camping: Whatuwhiwhi

‍Day 4 – No need to take down your tents this morning as we are off on a full day trip to Cape Reinga.  

Today takes us all the way to the top of New Zealand - the northernmost point. It is a scenic drive to get there, but the main attraction is at the end of the road. After passing through green pastures, we are then greeted with large rolling sand dunes on both sides of the road. Then as we get closer to the very top of New Zealand, we wind our way up steep hills and are rewarded with incredible views of the roiling ocean, where the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean meet. Here at Cape Reinga, we have time for a stroll down to the iconic lighthouse and its outstanding views of the northern coastline. It is here that we can often see the two distinct colours of the waters as they come together.  

Soon after starting our drive back to Whatuwhiwhi, we make a stop at the Te Paki sand dunes - a vast area of sand with native bush on one side and Ninety Mile Beach and the ocean on the other. They are quite incredible to see. You’ll have time to walk across the desert-like landscape or hire a sandboard and have a go at ‘boarding’ down the dunes!

‍Included B,D
Camping: Whatuwhiwhi
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‍‍Day 5 –  We leave Whatuwhiwhi this morning and head around the headland to a picturesque beach settlement called Matauri Bay. Here you can climb the hill to see the Rainbow Warrior Memorial and for stunning views across to the Cavalli Islands, or just relax on the beautiful beach.  

We then head south to Kerikeri, home to New Zealand’s oldest buildings. Dating back to 1822, The Kerikeri Mission Station (Kemp House) stands adjacent to the old Stone Store which was built in 1832. Situated in a beautiful orchard setting, we have time to look around, visit the museum* and store, and enjoy some lunch at the cafe on site. 

The afternoon will take us through Paihia, the gateway to the Bay of Islands, on our way to the charmingly historic town of Russell. 

‍*at your own cost
‍
‍Included B,D
Camping: Russell
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‍‍Day 6 – Free Day.  

Spend today exploring Russell itself and/or take a boat trip out around the Bay of Islands.

The Bay of Islands comprises of 144 islands, so this is your chance to get out on the water and see them. Embark on a cruise, charter a yacht, hire a sea kayak or join one of the jet boat safaris that are on offer here. These unique excursions will take you to islands with white sandy beaches, secluded coves, stunning marine life, not forgetting the famed “Hole in the Rock”.
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Included B
Camping: Russell
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‍‍Day 7 - Free Day.  

Today, why not take the frequent foot ferry across to Paihia, have a mooch around the Bay of Islands main tourist town, and/or visit Waitangi.

Situated just a short walk from Paihia, Waitangi is one of New Zealand's most historic sites, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between the British Crown and more than 500 Māori chiefs. At Waitangi, visitors are given an in-depth introduction to the early history of New Zealand and Māori culture. You can visit the Treaty House itself, marvel at the fully carved Māori meeting house and traditional Waka (canoes), experience a live cultural performance and explore the two museums and beautiful grounds.

‍Included B,D
Camping: Russell  

‍Day 8 - Today we head south to Whangarei Falls. This 26m high waterfall on the Hatea River in the Whangarei Scenic Reserve makes for a pleasant lunch stop.  

From here, we drive back out to the coast, where we pass through stunning Langs Beach and Waipu Beaches making a stop to take a short walk to see the fascinating Waipu Pancake Rocks.

Our final destination today is just over the hill at Mangawhai Heads, where you’ll find surf, sea, sand, and rugged coastal scenery.  

‍Included B,D
Camping: Mangawhai Heads‍

‍Day 9 –Free Day.

Whether its relaxing on the beach, walking beside the sand dunes or having a go at fishing, kayaking or the many other water-based activities on offer, Mangawhai Heads is a beautiful spot to spend your day.

You might also wish to explore the excellent Mangawhai Coastal Cliff walk. This 2-3 hour round trip offers spectacular elevated ocean views up and down the coast and out to the many offshore islands.  

‍Included B,D
Camping: Mangawhai Heads
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‍‍Day 10 – Today, we travel South passing through rolling farmland and small towns. Leaving the countryside views behind us, we drive over Auckland’s harbour bridge, enjoying panoramic views of the Waitemata Harbour and city, before entering into the Waikato, an area with a rich agricultural heritage.

Situated on the banks of the Waikato River, New Zealand’s longest river is Hamilton Gardens, a 54-hectare public garden where we spend a couple of hours. This renowned parkland hosts an array of intricate and beautifully manicured themed gardens. From the Japanese ‘Garden of Contemplation’ to the grandeur of the ‘Italian Renaissance’ collection and on to the English ‘Flower Garden’, you will feel like you have been transported all around the world by the magnificent flora on display here.

We finish the day in Raglan, a laid-back West Coast surfing mecca and holiday spot where we will spend two nights.

Included BD
Camping: Raglan

Day 11 – Free Day

Raglan attracts many domestic and international surfers who come to catch the longest, most accessible and consistent ‘left hand break’ in the world. Even if you’re not a surfer, it’s fantastic to watch.

Have a go yourself with a surf lesson or simply watch the board riders on the waves at Manu Bay.

Laze on Ngarunui Beach or experience the large range of other water-based activities that Raglan has to offer.

Browse around the boutique ‘bohemian’ shops, galleries and cafes, hire a bike or simply watch the youngsters jump off the bridge into the turquoise waters of the estuary at high tide.

Included B
Camping: Raglan

Day 12 – Not far from Raglan is Bridal Veil Falls - a plunge waterfall that is 55m high. It is set in a beautiful bush clad bowl and can be admired from three tiered viewing platforms.

After time here, we continue our journey to Taupo, stopping at Huka Falls where you can witness nearly a quarter of a million litres of water per second thundering through a natural rocky gorge before tumbling 11m into the roiling Waikato River below. There are numerous viewing platforms from which to see the falls, and you may also see the excited passengers on the Huka Jet as it comes racing up and almost touches the crashing waters in this, the ultimate thrill ride.

The town of Taupo sits on the north-eastern shore of Lake Taupo. The lake was formed from a crater that was left after the large Taupo super volcano erupted 1800 years ago. The area is now a beautiful adventure playground with Lake Taupo at its centre and the three mountains of the Central Plateau to the south.

Included BD
Camping: Taupo

Day 13 - Free Day.

Lake Taupo is New Zealand’s largest lake at 622 square kilometres and offers a staggering number of activities to choose from, many of which are located in or around the lake. One being Taupo’s float plane which takes off and lands on the lake and takes you on a breathtaking flight over the Central Volcanic Plateau.

You can also cruise out on the lake to see the Ngatoroirangi Māori Rock Carvings, take a walk or bike ride on the many pathways (including the flat and very scenic ‘Lion’s Walk’), partake in a spot of trout fishing (Lake Taupo is recognised as one of the best places in the world to fish for trout), or try your hand at the Taupo Hole in One golf challenge. You can even jump out of a plane and skydive over the lake or right by our campsite is the AJ Hackett Taupo Bungy & Swing.

These are only a small selection of the many activities on offer here in Taupo.

Included BD
Camping: Taupo

‍Day 14 - We start today with a visit to Orakei Korako (included), the largest silica terraces in New Zealand. Hot springs and bubbling mud pools make this an incredible experience as you wander around the hidden valleys and caves of this natural geothermal park. Orakei Korako boasts the most active geysers of any geothermal park in New Zealand.

Our drive then takes us along the Desert Road, through the heart of the Taupo Volcanic Zone, offering  dramatic views of the Central Plateau and it’s three spectacular volcanoes.

We spend the next three nights in Ohakune, New Zealand’s ‘carrot capital’. Ohakune sits at the foot of Mt Ruapehu, the North Island’s highest peak and is perfectly situated for the numerous activities that the Central Plateau region has to offer.

It is from here that keen hikers take on the mighty ‘world-famous’ Tongariro Alpine Crossing – a 19km hike over the mountain, with panoramic 360° views across the North Island. It has been regularly voted as one of the best scenic one-day walks in the world. It’s natural beauty spots include the three ‘Emerald Lakes’, the impressive ‘Red Crater’ and the picturesque ‘Blue Lake’. Mt Ngauruhoe has an almost perfect conical peak and is better known as ‘Mt Doom’ from The Lord of the Rings films.

Included BD
Camping: Ohakune

Day 15 – Free Day.

The North Island's ‘Volcanic Plateau’ is famous for its three active volcanoes - Mt Ruapehu, Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Tongariro. Sitting at 2797m, Mt Ruapehu is the North Island’s highest peak and is popular for skiing and bush walking.

Aside from the Tongariro Crossing (as mentioned above), there are many shorter, easier walks around the area to enjoy as well as bike hire.

The historic Old Coach Road is popular with cyclists and day-walkers. It once connected the two ends of the Auckland to Wellington rail trunk line by stagecoach, and was extensively used until the railway line was finally completed in the 1920’s. The 15km trail stretches along cobblestoned roads, amongst native bush, under massive steel viaducts and through old stone tunnels.

Included B
Camping: Ohakune

Day 16 – Free Day. (optional free half day road trip to Whakapapa Village)

On your second free day here, we will take anyone wishing to, for a drive up the mountain road passed the old Grand Chateau and on to Whakapapa Village for some stunning views. From here, there is the chance to walk the 6km track to Taranaki Falls, one of Tongariro’s best short walks.

We have given you two free days in Ohakune to enable you to experience the Tongariro Crossing if you wish, and still have time to enjoy the many other activities on offer here.

Included BD
Camping: Ohakune

Day 17 – Adventure Day. Forgotten World Adventures - Rail and River Run (included activity)

Driving past the eastern side of the Central Plateau’s volcanic region, you may see fumaroles and geothermal vents releasing plumes of steam into the air.

We soon arrive in Taumarunui, a small town nestled within the rugged terrain of the King Country.

Here, a full day experience will have you ‘rattling’ along through 40 kms of disused railway track, tunnels, and bridges on your own modified ‘golf cart’. You’ll pass through back-country ghost towns and untouched landscapes steepened in Māori and early pioneer history. And that’s not all, you’ll then get to sit back and enjoy an exhilarating 23km jet boat ride along the Whanganui River. Great fun!

Included BL
Motel: Taumarunui

Day 18 – Today, we drive through the 148km long ‘Forgotten World Highway’, a rugged, picturesque maze of steep hills, native bush, farmland, historic buildings, and winding streams that are a truly ‘lost piece of New Zealand’.

Almost halfway along, we find ourselves at the small settlement of Whangamomona, which declared itself an independent republic in 1989. Every two years, the famous January ‘Republic Day’ is held and the villages population swells with thousands of visitors. The main high street is taken over with umpteen country activities, including as sheep races, gumboot throwing, gut buster hill climbs, whip cracking and much, much more. The Republic Day finale sees all visitors voting for a new president, not all of which have been human! This quirky, charismatic town which only consists of one street and a few buildings is a charming place to call in and see for yourselves. The historic Whangamomona Hotel displays Republic Day photos dating back many years, and for a couple of dollars you can also have your passport stamped!

Be some of the few people around the world who can say they have the ‘Republic of Whangamomona’ stamp in their passport!

Completing the second half of the Forgotten World Highway, we continue through the rugged Taranaki countryside before emerging from the hills at Stratford nestled beneath Mount Taranaki before arriving in to New Plymouth for three nights.

Included BD
Camping: New Plymouth

Day 19 - Free Day.

New Plymouth is a vibrant and modern city, renowned for its sunny climate, art galleries, street art, picturesque parks and botanical gardens – all centrally located. It’s also famed for its Coastal Walkway which stretches 12.7km from the port to a small beach community in the north. Te Rewa Rewa Bridge can be found halfway along the walkway and has magnificent views of Mount Taranaki to the south. Great for walking on or hiring a bike and cycling along.

New Plymouth is blessed with many stunning beaches and provides a paradise for surfers, swimmers, kayakers and paddle boarders alike.

The Port of Taranaki is an interesting working harbour with a long history. There are places to eat and drink at the breakwater where you can watch the ships go by.

Included B
Camping: New Plymouth

Day 20 - Free Day.

Day two in New Plymouth – if you didn’t yesterday, this is your chance to get up onto Mount Taranaki, in Egmont National Park. The visitor centres can provide you with lots of information about the beautiful walks throughout the area.
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Included BD
Camping: New Plymouth

‍Day 21 - With Mount Taranaki in our rear-view mirror, we set off north today along one of the fastest eroding coastlines in the world. The relentless Tasman Sea continually sculpts and shapes the cliffs of the seafront here, creating numerous caves, tunnels and archways. Along the way we pass by the translucent waters of the Tongapōrutu River and make a short stop in Mokau, a coastal village on the mouth of the Mokau River.

The coastal route that we take up to the small settlement of Marakopa, is incredibly scenic. It is a short drive from here to the thunderous Marakopa Falls, where we take a short bush walk to this wide waterfall with its impressive 35m drop - often referred to as the most beautiful in NZ.

Time permitting, we will also visit the Mangapohue Natural Bridge, a 17m high natural limestone arch that has formed from the remnants of an ancient cave system. Be wowed as you walk through the fairy-tale like forest that leads up to this beautiful natural phenomena.

We end in Waitomo tonight, famous for its extensive underground cave systems and its glow-worms.

Included BD
Camping: Waitomo

Day 22 – Free Day.

The caves, glow-worms, black water rafting, abseiling, caving, zip lining, bushwalking and the Discovery Centre & Museum – Waitomo offers so many experiences, all walkable from our campsite.

Included BD
Camping: Waitomo

‍Day 23 – This morning, we visit the Otorohanga Kiwi House. This not-for-profit wildlife and conservation centre displays rare native New Zealand wildlife for release to the wild and is the best place to see the Kiwi Bird and the lesser known Tuatara (a real dinosaur!).

We continue our drive up towards Thames, a small town on the Firth of Thames, which serves as the gateway to the Coromandel Peninsula.

From here, we join the scenic Thames Coastal Road giving us our first experience of the magnificent Coromandel and all it has to offer as we arrive into Coromandel Town. The Coromandel is a popular holiday destination renowned for its 400kms of pristine white sandy beaches and relaxed vibes.

Included BD
Camping: Coromandel Town

Day 24 – Free Day. (optional free day road trip around the Coromandel)

You have a free day to explore Coromandel Town, a unique little settlement with character, soul and ambience. As well as galleries and craft shops, the town has many restored Victorian buildings and a small mining museum. There are many bush and beach walks nearby too.

Weather permitting, we will seize the chance to take a further drive north and explore even more of this area’s remote beauty.

We may even be able to walk part of the Coromandel Coastal Walkway. One of New Zealand’s most popular coastal walks with its beautiful scenery and remote location, it borders the northern Coromandel coastline between Stony and Fletcher Bays and follows an old bridle path formed by early pioneers.

Included BD
Camping: Coromandel Town

Day 25 – We start today with a visit to the Driving Creek Railway and experience a unique tour on New Zealand’s only mountain railway after which, we zigzag across and around the Coromandel Peninsula to Hot Water Beach on the east coast.

Along the way we visit Kūaotunu – home of the 10 scoop ice cream!, beautiful Otama beach and the harbour town of Whitianga.

Included BD
Camping: Hot Water Beach, Coromandel

Day 26 – Free Day.

This is your chance to get out and explore the beautiful Coromandel's east coast with its pristine beaches, beautiful bays, caves and islands. From our camp at Hot Water Beach, you can opt for one of the many boat trips that are on offer, kayak tours, diving and snorkeling trips or simply dig yourself a hole and sit in it! Yes, Hot Water Beach is exactly that – find the right place to dig and you’ll discover a hot pool waiting for you to sit and relax in. A complimentary spa, even if you do have to do the digging yourself!

Voted one of the most picturesque spots in the Coromandel, Cathedral Cove is home to a soaring limestone rock arch that separates two white sandy beaches and is a kayak or boat trip away. A number of tours are bookable from the Hot Water Beach area. There is a scenic walk also (but is currently inaccessible due to excessive storm damage. The work to reinstate the walkway is underway)

Included BD
Camping: Hot Water Beach, Coromandel

Day 27 – We start today by heading a little further south to the stunning Mount Paku peninsula. The 360° panoramic views at the top of the summit walk are not to be missed, looking down over Tairua harbour, Pauanui Beach, the beautiful turquoise blue estuary waters, and out along the coast to the Alderman Islands.

We then head a little inland to the town of Waihi, New Zealand's 'Heart of Gold', with a gold mining history spanning three centuries and a local open pit mine that is still fully operational.

Further south, we enter the City of Tauranga where we drive past New Zealand's biggest port and one of its largest natural harbours before ending up in the popular seaside resort of Mount Maunganui. Its long sandy main beach stretches right up to the base of the ‘Mount’ which can be climbed to gain spectacular views across the city, harbour and coastline.

Included BD
Camping: Mount Manganui

Day 28 - Free Day.

Enjoy a walk along the beach, watch the surfers ride the waves and the ships coming into the harbour, indulge in the numerous cafes, juice and coffee shops along the sea front, or take the walk up the Mount.

If you fancy a day in the city, you can take the bus into Tauranga and shop til you drop - up to you.

Included BD
Camping: Mount Manganui

‍Day 29 – The ‘Hobbiton’ Day. (Included activity) (Optional free evening visit to the Whakarewarewa Forest)

Experience the magic of the Hobbiton movie set, situated in the heart of the Mighty Waikato region. Here you will explore the real ‘middle earth’ and the lush pastures of the ‘Shire’ with a guided walking tour of Hobbiton as featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Wander amongst the ‘Hobbit Holes’, past the Mill and down to the Green Dragon Inn for a refreshing complimentary drink. Even if you’re not a fan of the books or films, we are sure you will still find this tour extremely endearing, interesting and very photogenic.

We end our day in Rotorua where we will settle down for three nights.

Tonight after dark, you have the option to join us at the Whakarewarewa Forest where you can enjoy the magical light display amongst the enormous redwood trees. (The elevated tree walk – additional cost, can be booked at the ticket office on site)

Included BD
Camping: Rotorua

Day 30 – Free Day.

Rotorua has so much to offer. There is everything here from adrenaline pumping activities like guided volcano climbing, ziplining and zorbing to more relaxed activities like having a massage in the many spa and wellness centres or walking amongst the giant redwood trees in the amazing Whakarewarewa Forest.

Taking a stroll around the vibrant town centre you’ll find yourself walking amongst geothermal natural springs and bubbling mud pools, through the beautifully manicured government gardens, onto the pristine new lakefront walkway, and back towards Eat Streat, a pedestrianized road full of cafes and restaurants, not to mention fantastic ice cream parlours.

There are kilometres of lake, river and forest paths and trails to explore on foot or bike and a visit to Rotorua is not complete without experiencing our unique Māori culture too.

Rotorua is a unique and special place and with so much to see and do, you won’t be disappointed.

Included B
Camping: Rotorua

Day 31 – Free Day until 5pm.

You will have another day to yourselves in Rotorua to embrace all it has to offer.

This evening we treat you to a cultural evening at the Mitai Māori Village, where you will be given an authentic introduction to Māori culture complete with a traditional Hāngī feast. (included) A Hāngī is a traditional New Zealand Māori method of cooking food using either natural steam or heated rocks buried in a pit oven.

Included BD
Camping: Rotorua

‍Day 32 – We haven’t quite finished with Rotorua yet.  As we near the city, we pay a visit to either Wai O Tapu Thermal Wonderland, named as "One of the 20 Most Surreal Places in the World"  or  Waimangu – a natural wonderland and the final resting place of the legendary pink and white terraces.

Whichever one we visit, you will be awed by the extraordinary natural thermal phenomena on show at these parks - brightly coloured natural hot pools, sulphur mud baths, explosive geysers and more.

Not far away is Kerosene Creek, a stream heated by natural hot springs. Complete with a waterfall and a series of steaming sandy bottomed pools surrounded by dense forest, this delightful spot is a local secret and your chance for a dip in the warm bath-like water.

Our destination for today is Whakatāne, in the Bay of Plenty.

Included BD
Camping: Whakatāne

Day 33 – Free Day.

Whakatāne is the heart of the Eastern Bay of Plenty and frequently records the highest number of annual sunshine hours in New Zealand. It is the perfect place to unwind and explore the area’s beautiful natural setting.

But there is also lots to do – it is one of the country’s premier fishing centres with more yellowfin tuna being caught here than anywhere else in New Zealand. You can also take a boat trip out to Moutohorā/Whale Island, a protected wildlife sanctuary that supports an abundance of native New Zealand birdlife.

One of the more popular attractions is to take a flight over White Island and the numerous volcanoes that make up the Taupo Volcanic Zone – an incredible experience.

Included BD
Camping: Whakatāne

Day 34 & 35 – The next two days see us travelling State Highway 35, which circles right around New Zealand’s East Cape. The East Cape is the easternmost point of the New Zealand mainland and is the first place to see the sunrise in the world! The 334 km road trip around the coastline is stunning, comprising of endless white sandy beaches, remote villages where wild horses roam free, and a number of historical points of interest.

We stay the night at a beautifully secluded spot on the most remote part of the East Cape. Here, with weather permitting, we have the opportunity to zip open our tents at dawn and be the first people in the world to witness the sun rising up out of the ocean for the new day. What an experience!

Over our two days of travel around the Cape, we’ll pass through the tiny hamlet of Omaio, whose name literally means ‘peace, quiet & tranquillity’ in Māori, the iconic and picturesque Anglican Raukokore Church, Te Araroa where you can find New Zealand’s oldest and largest Pohutukawa tree, the old abandoned wharf, wool and meat work buildings of beautiful Tokumaru Bay, and Tolaga Bay with what is believed to be the longest (660m) and most spectacular wharf of its type in the Southern Hemisphere.  The wharf at Tolaga Bay stands where Captain Cook first met the leaders of the Te Aitanga a Hauiti tribe in 1769 and there are a number of other places along this historic section of coastline where Cook and his ship, the Endeavour set anchor.

We complete our East Cape experience in our very special destination for two nights, deep in the hill country of Ngatapa.

Included BD
Day 34 - Camping: East Cape

Included BD
Day 35 - Lodge:  Eastwoodhill Arboretum, Ngatapa

Day 36 – Free Day.

Today you can explore the delights of the Eastwoodhill Arboretum which covers 131 hectares of rolling rural farmland and contains the most comprehensive collection of flora in NZ. It displays over 4000 different varieties of trees, shrubs and plants and is extremely beautiful. Whether we are visiting in the Spring or in Autumn the colours and variety of species are spectacular.

Meander your way through the numerous woodland paths within the park, take time out to sit in the gardens and enjoy the peaceful ambience.

Included BD
Lodge: Eastwoodhill Arboretum, Ngatapa

Day 37 – Today we travel south to the coastal town of Wairoa, after taking a short detour to the Mahia Peninsula. We continue on to Napier, the largest city in Hawkes Bay, where we will spend three nights.

Included BD
Camping: Napier

Day 38 – Free Day. (optional free road trip to Te Mata Peak – weather permitting)

Hawkes Bay is recognised as one of New Zealand’s premier food and wine regions. It is also known as an international Art Deco capital with outstanding architecture dating from the 1930's when the area was decimated by a large earthquake.

We take an optional scenic drive today through dramatic scenery around the Tuku Tuku Road loop, up to Te Mata Peak with amazing 360° views from the top down across the many vineyards and wineries and on a clear day right across to the central mountains.

On the way we’ll pass the Mission Estate (the oldest winery in New Zealand which dates back to 1851).

Included B
Camping: Napier

Day 39 – Free Day.

Wine tours are a popular pastime in this premier wine region of New Zealand, and many visitors to the town also choose to take a tour to the scenic Cape Kidnappers gannet colony.  

Napier is the largest city in the Hawkes Bay and has a very pretty seafront. Marine Parade is a great place to walk or cycle along whilst you admire the many Art Deco buildings on show.

The old harbour area is also a lovely place to spend some time with plenty of quaint boutique shops and cafes to enjoy.

Included BD
Camping: Napier

‍Day 40 – Today we travel south to the Wairarapa. On the way, we make a stop at ‘the longest place name in the world’ in Porangahau and see how many of you can pronounce the 85 character Maori name correctly!

We then continue our journey on to Greytown, a charming village that has won the title of New Zealand’s most beautiful small town many years in a row.

We stay here for two nights.

Included BD
Camping: Greytown

Day 41 – Free Day. (optional free day road trip to Castlepoint – weather dependent)

As part of our optional day trip, should you choose that, we take a scenic drive to the small beachside settlement on the Wairarapa coast, Castlepoint. Famous for its stunning lighthouse and 160m high Castle Rock, this beautiful scenic reserve is surrounded by reef, lagoons and sand dunes, just waiting to be explored.

If wine is more your thing, then perhaps research one of the many wine tours that the surrounding area boasts. Many of the operators will pick up from Greytown and take you into the heart of Martinborough with over twenty vineyards surrounding its cute village square. Along with some of the world’s finest olive groves (with many local oils winning international awards), much of New Zealand’s best Pinot Noir comes from the local vineyards. There’s even the option for a self guided cycle wine tour – yes, you did read that correctly!

Note though that tonight, we will be taking you into Martinborough where we will dine amongst the vines at one of the many wineries and enjoy a spot of wine tasting. That’s on us!

Included BD
Camping: Greytown

Day 42 - Remaining in the Wairarapa, we drive along rugged coastline to the desolate and very remote Cape Palliser, the southernmost point of the North Island. Weaving between the dramatic jagged mountains on our left and the wild rolling seas to our right, the coastal route meanders through small townships to the 125-year-old clifftop lighthouse at the end of the road. The view at the top is stunning.

We then travel back around Lake Wairarapa, through Featherstone and up over the Remutaka Ranges before descending into New Zealand’s capital, Wellington for your final night here in a centrally located hotel/hostel.

Included B
Hostel: Wellington

Day 43 – Check out of hostel by 10am. Depart tour.
Included No Meals