Northern Spotlight

Auckland is known as the ‘City of Sails'. And you'll discover why when exploring its two harbours at your leisure. Pick a waterfront precinct and find a perch to while away the afternoon with a glass of robust red from Waiheke. Meet your Travel Director and fellow travelling companions tonight for a tour briefing and welcome reception. Your Travel Director will welcome you tonight Stay: Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre

Your journey north to Bay of Islands from Auckland is not short of drama – discover 140 droplets of land ringed by turquoise sea at the top of the country. It's undeniably beautiful, but it also holds a special historical significance: this is where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840, between Captain William Hobson and Māori Chiefs. Your local specialist, likely a descendant of one of the original signatories, will explain the significance of the site, while pointing out the world's largest ceremonial war canoe and a carved meeting house. (B/D) Stay: Copthorne Hotel and Resort

If there's a travel destination that inspires wanderlust, the Bay of Islands is it. And today, you can do just that. Venture up to Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua, the very top of New Zealand, via idyllic Ninety Mile Beach or enjoy a scenic cruise among the 144 islands including lunch and a visit to the iconic hole in the rock. Or join a tour of Russell and learn more about the settling of the Bay of Islands. The choice is yours. (B)

Northern exposure is a thing today, when you journey toward the top of the country to visit Whangarei – NZ's northern-most city, and a place where waterfalls meet beaches, galleries meet museums. It's like the country in a tantalising snapshot – a union of nature and forward-thinking culture. Explore at your leisure before sinking back into your seat for the mesmerising commute back to Auckland. (B) Stay: Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre

Tonight, delve deep into Maori culture and traditions at Te Puia. The Te Pō Indigenous Experience begins with an exhilarating cultural performance that takes place in a beautifully carved meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua.

Afterward, enter the geothermal valley on a waka (electric shuttle) and discover one of New Zealand's most magnificent geothermal wonderlands – featuring dramatic geysers, bubbling mud, and beautiful native bush. Enjoy a hot chocolate, seated on a naturally heated rock terrace overlooking the powerful Pōhutu Geyser. Then enjoy a delicious buffet dinner of locally sourced cuisine and an authentic Māori twist in each dish. (B/D) Stay: Ibis Rotorua Hotel

Explore at your own pace today, but with plenty of tips from your Travel Director. Want a bit of down time? We wouldn't blame you for simply blissing out at Wai Araki Hot Springs & Spa. Hobbit fans will want to take advantage of the opportunity to tour the sights featured in The Lord of the Rings movies at Hobbiton. These beautiful landscapes are not only a bucket list tour for Hobbit fans, but a gorgeous countryside getaway (all own expense). (B)

You'll hear Huka Falls well before you see it – at this natural wonder, a staggering 220,000 litres of water thunder over an 11-metre-high waterfall every second. The road ahead unfolds in a broad panorama of Lake Taupo, its waters so vivid and blue you'll think someone has taken the glasses off your nose and cleaned them for the first time. Traverse the Kapiti Coast to New Zealand's cool little capital, Wellington.

Tonight, join your Travel Director for drinks to toast your adventure. (B) Stay: James Cook Grand Chancellor

Wellington is known for its uber-cool cafes, so grab a coffee before you head out on your city sights tour. After the tour, bid farewell to your NZ crew. You may wish to depart directly, or if you have time, linger in town, discovering Māori culture at Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand (entrance fee applies). (B)