Great Northerner

9 Days Auckland to Wellington
Great Northerner
Great Northerner
Great Northerner

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on APT's 9 Day Great Northerner. Explore New Zealand’s North Island over 9 days. Visit the Bay of Islands, Auckland, the Waitomo Caves, Rotorua and Wellington.
Our Price From
US$3,425 per person
Price shown based on twin share
Check Availability
Trip Length
Trip Length

9 Days

Trip Starts
Trip Starts

Auckland

Trip Ends
Trip Ends

Wellington

Countries Visited
Countries Visited:
Operator
Operator
APT
Trip Style
Trip Style

Land Journey

Accommodation
Accommodation

4 - 4.5 Star

Budget
Budget

Premium

Age Range
Age Range

12-99 Years

Max. Group Size
Max. Group Size

48

Guide Style
Guiding Style

Fully Guided

Tour Code
Tour Code

NCW09

Itinerary

On arrival in Auckland, you'll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Stay: Grand Millennium Auckland

Cross Auckland's Harbour Bridge and travel along the Hibiscus Coast. Stop at the Kauri Museum in Matakohe for an insight into the rich pioneering history of the Northland region. Continue to the Bay of Islands, where you will enjoy a Signature Experience. Stay Two Nights: Copthorne Hotel And Resort Bay Of Islands (B/D)

Signature Experience - Waitangi Treaty Grounds Discover New Zealand's most historic site, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, which is often called the 'Birthplace of our Nation' by Kiwis. This is where the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed in 1840, an agreement between the British Crown and a significant number of Māori chiefs. See the world's largest war canoe, Ngātokimatawhaorua, and visit Te Whare Rūnanga, a Māori meeting house that reflects stories and carving styles from across the country.

Embark on a memorable Signature Experience, discovering the beauty of the Bay of Islands. Afterwards, the afternoon is free for you to further explore. (B)

Signature Experience - Bay of Islands Cruise Enjoy a catamaran cruise to Cape Brett and the Hole in the Rock. Meander through the inner islands, admiring the sandy beaches and rocky outcrops.

Travel to Auckland before setting off on your preferred Freedom of Choice activity. Back at your hotel this evening, enjoy a delicious Pacific-themed dinner. Stay: Grand Millennium Auckland (B/D)

Freedom of Choice - Auckland Harbour Sailing Cruise Sail under the Auckland Harbour Bridge, spot volcanic peaks and admire the iconic city skyline from the water aboard a 50-foot monohull sailboat.

Freedom of Choice - All Blacks Experience Immerse yourself in a guided encounter that connects you to the history and culture of one of the world's greatest sports teams. You'll have the opportunity to learn about the people who have made the All Blacks such an important part of New Zealand's story.

Freedom of Choice - Wētā Workshop - Unleashed Journey behind the cinema curtain with the Academy Award-winning team at Wētā Workshop and see how blockbuster films such as ‘The Hobbit' are created.

Freedom of Choice - Te Wao Nui - The Living Realm at Auckland Zoo At Auckland Zoo, explore six stunning habitats showcasing the native flora and fauna of New Zealand. See the iconic kiwi, cheeky kea and more than 50 other native species.

Freedom of Choice - Bush and Beach Wilderness Adventure Escape the bustle of the city on a half-day tour to Auckland's wild, black sand beaches and lush rainforest. Join an experienced guide and learn about the forest's unique plants and wildlife.

Travel to Waitomo, home to the famous caves where thousands of tiny bioluminescent glowworms radiate a spellbinding light. Discover this natural wonder on a guided boat ride through a grotto illuminated by these majestic creatures. Later, continue to Rotorua, where you will enjoy an enriching Signature Experience. Stay Two Nights: Millennium Hotel Rotorua (B/D)

Signature Experience - Te Pā Tū Enjoy a feast of Māori delicacies and performance of haka, song and storytelling at Te Pā Tū (Māori Village). Over a magical evening, you will be welcomed with a haka pōwhiri (cultural welcome) and then be treated to further captivating performances while enjoying seasonal canapés, chef selected aperitifs and a seasonal three-course dinner.

Spend this morning on your Freedom of Choice activity. Afterwards, the afternoon and evening are free for you to explore. (B)

Freedom of Choice - Rotorua Icons Embark on a Rotorua adventure. Experience the lively Agrodome Farm Show and visit The National Kiwi Hatchery before heading to the incredible natural geothermal wonder that is renowned for its healing properties, the mineral-rich Te Puia Thermal Reserve.

Freedom of Choice - Hobbiton Movie Set Tour A must for any fan of ‘The Lord of the Rings', this tour explores locations where some of the famous movie scenes were filmed. You'll feel as though you're a part of the massive blockbuster trilogy.

Freedom of Choice - Eco-Thermal Tour Drive through a unique mix of forest and farmland to visit New Zealand's largest boiling mud pool and a series of colourful hot springs at the calming Waiotapu.

Follow the Thermal Explorer Highway to the heart of New Zealand's North Island this morning. Visit Huka Falls and Lake Taupō, before travelling across the plateau of Tongariro National Park to Wellington. Stay Two Nights: InterContinental Wellington (B/D)

After breakfast, set off on a sightseeing tour of Wellington's best-loved landmarks and sights, including Mount Victoria and the waterfront area. The rest of the day will be yours at leisure to continue exploring this coastal city. You may like to visit New Zealand's national museum, Te Papa Tongarewa. Tonight you might like to dine at a local restaurant (own expense). (B)

Your tour of New Zealand's spectacular North Island concludes today. After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • Waitangi Treaty Grounds: Discover New Zealand's most historic site, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, which is often called the 'birthplace of our nation' by Kiwis. See the world's largest war canoe, Ngātokimatawhaorua, and visit Te Whare Rūnanga, a Māori meeting house that reflects stories and carving styles from across the country.
  • Bay of Islands Cruise: Enjoy a catamaran cruise to Cape Brett and the Hole in the Rock. Meander through the inner islands, admiring the sandy beaches and rocky outcrops.
  • Te Pā Tū: Enjoy a feast of Māori delicacies and performance of haka, song and storytelling at Te Pā Tū (Māori village). Over a magical evening, you will be welcomed with a haka pōwhiri (cultural welcome) and then be treated to further captivating performances while enjoying canapés, chef-selected aperitifs and a seasonal three-course dinner.

  • Itinerary, hotels, pricing and inclusions are subject to change
  • Weather may cause disruptions to itinerary, especially in remote locations
  • APT highly recommends travel insurance
  • Prices are fully inclusive of all sightseeing, entrance fees, cruises, and meals as specified, as well as accommodation
  • Prices are for land and/or cruise only. Flights not included unless specified

Operator

APT
 (469) Reviews
Total No. of Tours & Cruises152
APT is an Australian family-owned company whose essence began in Melbourne in the 1920s. More than 90 years on, APT offers life-enriching trips to every continent, and through the company’s vast industry experience, meticulous planning and unquestionable passion it's earned a place among the world’s most well-regarded travel more companies.

From boutique river cruising to small-group 4WD adventures; traditional coach touring with a decadent twist; epic rail journeys to small-ship expeditions; classic ocean cruising to safaris of discovery by both land and air – there’s little APT are unwilling to consider in pursuit of creating the finest holiday experience for its valued guests.

Timeless luxury, exclusive experiences, life enriching moments and true personalisation. APT offers all-inclusive holidays so everything is taken care of. We invite you to join us; you won’t be disappointed.
All Taken Care Of
All Taken Care Of

At APT, we like to make things as easy as possible. Our journeys of New Zealand are what we like to call All-Inspiring Luxury. Read more

Iconic Stays
Iconic Stays

Relax in the finest hotels and resorts, chosen to immerse you in breathtaking natural landscapes or the vibrant heart of a bustling city. Read more

Unforgettable Experiences
Unforgettable Experiences

APT's Freedom of Choice sightseeing activities & dining experiences along with their Signature Experiences embrace the heart of local history, culture and tradition. Read more

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APT New Zealand (2025-26) Brochure

APT New Zealand (2025-26)

APT invites you to uncover the diverse natural splendour and rich cultural heritage of New Zealand, where Māori traditions blend seamlessly with breathtaking landscapes - from the subtropical beauty of the Bay of Islands to the majestic fiords of the South Island. With over 50 years of expertise, APT offers immersive land and rail journeys that showcase more iconic highlights and hidden gems alike. Travel in comfort aboard luxury coaches and scenic trains such as the TranzAlpine and Coastal Pacific, enjoy centrally located stays, and indulge in regionally inspired cuisine, all while enjoying ample leisure time and the ease of small-group exploration.

Dates & Pricing USD USD

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Friday 20 Feb 2026 20 Feb 26 Auckland
Saturday 28 Feb 2026 28 Feb 26 Wellington
Details
Not Available
Our Price
US$3,795
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Friday 27 Feb 2026 27 Feb 26 Auckland
Saturday 07 Mar 2026 07 Mar 26 Wellington
Details
Not Available
Our Price
US$3,795
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Note
Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by APT. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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