The Magnificent North Island with Bay of Islands
Overview
Nature-lovers will find plenty to get excited about on this tour, from the unique thermal mineral pools at Hot Water Beach to the stunning...read more native forests found at Karangahake Gorge. As you make your way down the island, pay a visit to the mighty Huka Falls with its turbulent turquoise-hued rapids, and be sure to have your camera at the ready for the dramatic coastal views of Cape Kidnappers, home to the world’s largest mainland gannet colony. You’ll also get a taste of New Zealand’s finest food and world-class wines throughout your tour. Savour lunch overlooking magnificent ocean views at Stonyridge Winery on Waiheke Island; enjoy a craft beer tasting at Coromandel’s Hot Water Brewery; sample local specialities at Hawkes Bay Brewing Co. and Mission Estate Winery; and delight in a celebratory progressive farewell dinner showcasing Wellington’s vibrant food scene.
Itinerary
Kia Ora and welcome to New Zealand! The remainder of the day is at leisure to start exploring this exciting city on your own. Your Cosmos Local Host will be on hand to answer any questions and make suggestions for shopping, dining, and sightseeing.
Today, travel to the beautiful Bay of Islands region. Discover the cultural heritage of New Zealand at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and enjoy a traditional M?ori welcome. This evening is at leisure. (B)
Explore the top tip of New Zealand where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. See the iconic lighthouse, visit Ninety Mile Beach, and experience sandboarding, or digging for shellfish (conditions permitting). Return to Paihia where the remainder of the day is at leisure. You can choose to take a stroll on the beach, enjoy fresh seafood at a waterside restaurant, or take a scenic flight to see more of the area. (B/L)
Embark on a sightseeing cruise to view the "Hole in the Rock." Have the chance to see dolphins, penguins, and sea birds, and learn more about the rich history and culture of this region. The remainder of the day is at leisure. You may wish to spend more time on the water with a kayak or paddle board hire, browse the harbor shops, or take the Opua Forest Paihia Lookout Walk. (B)
This morning, return to Auckland. Later, please join your Tour Director and travelling companions for a welcome meeting and drink featuring New Zealand wines and spirits. (B)
Take a short ferry ride to stunning Waiheke Island, home to beautiful beaches, boutique vineyards, and olive groves. Sightseeing includes tastings at a local vineyard, brewery and olive oil distillery. Lunch is served overlooking the vineyard at Stonyridge Winery. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Return to Auckland or you may also choose to explore more of Waiheke Island on your own. Your Tour Director will have suggestions for additional sightseeing, shopping, and dining. (B/L)
Start the day with a ride on New Zealand's steepest railway. Enjoy a captivating journey and be inspired by the story of one man's passion to bring art, conservation and engineering together to create the Driving Creek Railway. Afterward, visit the pottery studio of artist, Barry Brickell, for a demonstration.
Next, experience the unique thermal mineral pools at Hot Water Beach. Here's your chance to relax and experience the natural phenomenon of creating your very own "hot tub" in the beach sand. Enjoy a stop for a craft beer tasting at Hot Water Brewing Co. Dinner tonight is at a local restaurant. (B/D)
Enjoy a walk at the Karangahake Gorge, take in the stunning views of the Waitawheta River and learn about the gold mining history of the area. Arrive in Rotorua and visit Te Puia to see bubbling mud pools, soaring geysers, and M?ori craftwork. Be treated to a traditional M?ori concert. Spend this evening just steps from the shores of beautiful Lake Taupo. (B/L)
Start the day with a visit to a glass blowing studio where you'll witness a demonstration and have time to wander the sculpture garden. Next, enjoy a walk at Huka Falls, New Zealand's most visited natural attraction. In Napier, join a Local Guide for a tour of the city's famous art deco sites and learn how a tragic earthquake in 1931 resulted in Napier being one of the purest Art Deco cities in the world. Later, sample local specialties at Hawkes Bay Brewing Co. and Mission Estate Winery, New Zealand's oldest winery and the birthplace of New Zealand wine. Your evening is at leisure. (B)
This morning, take a walk along the Ahuriri Estuary Boardwalk past M?ori totems and the home of over 70 species of water birds. Afterward, enjoy high tea at a heritage cafe overlooking the spectacular Hawkes Bay. The remainder of your day is at leisure. You may wish to cycle or take a stroll on the Marine Parade, hike to Bluff Hill to enjoy panoramic views of the sea, take a swim at Sandy Bay, or hear the fascinating stories at the historic Napier Prison. (B)
This morning, enjoy dramatic coastal views at Cape Kidnappers, home to the largest and most accessible mainland gannet colony in the world. Arrive in Wellington and enjoy an orientation tour of this capital city. Join your Tour Director for a celebratory farewell dinner this evening. The perfect ending to your holiday! (B/D)
Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. You may also choose to extend your time in Wellington and explore more on your own. Extra nights are available for purchase. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Explore with expert Cosmos Tour Directors and Local Guides
- Private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach.
- Rooms with private bath or shower.
- Includes hotel taxes, tips and service charges
- 11 Breakfasts
- 3 Lunches
- 2 Dinners
- Auckland Copthorne Hotel Auckland City (Moderate First-Class)
- Bay of Islands Paihia Pacific Resort Hotel
- Tauranga Hotel on Davenport (First-Class)
- Taupo Millennium Hotel & Resort Manuels (Superior First-Class)
- Napier Scenic Hotel Te Pania (Moderate First-Class)
- Wellington Mercure Wellington Abel Tasman Hotel (First-Class)
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
Enjoy inside visits to New Zealand's the must-see sites with a great mix of included excursions, free time and affordable value. Read more
Cosmos build free time into every one of their holidays, so you can eat, shop, and explore the way you want. Read more
Cosmos' easy going, fun-filled and multilingual Tour Directors and Local Guides love exploring as much as you do. Read more
Brochure
Cosmos Worldwide (2023-24)
Prices & Dates
There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and will no longer continue. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view the general release dates for all destinations.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Cosmos.
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