Flavourful North

Kia Ora! Your unforgettable journey starts in Auckland. Check-in to your hotel then enjoy a warm welcome from your tour guide. Dive into the experience, meeting your fellow travelers and exclusive tour guide, enjoying refreshing welcome drinks at the hotels vibrant bar.

Then, indulge in a delightful welcome dinner at a nearby restaurant, immersing yourself in the local flavors. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll back to the hotel, anticipating the exciting adventures awaiting you. Stay tuned as your guide unveils tomorrow's enchanting voyage to Waiheke Island. Stay: Fable MGallery (or similar), Auckland (D)

Indulge in a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. Today, embark on a journey with the Waiheke Island Wine & Dine experience. Gather in the lobby your hotel, where your guide awaits to escort you on a stroll to the ferry terminal.

Board the 9am ferry, setting sail for Waiheke Island on a 40-minute voyage. Upon arrival, join your guide for an insightful bus tour around the island, absorbing the scenery and local commentary. Pause for a moment of culinary delight at Stonyridge, where lunch awaits, accompanied by a glass of wine.

Delve into the island's charm as your guide explains the freedom to explore aboard the Waiheke hop-on-hop-off bus at your leisure. As the day unfolds, continue your island exploration independently or join your guide for a ferry ride back to Auckland city at a designated time.

Whether you choose to extend your island adventure or return with the group, today promises an unforgettable escapade filled with culinary delights and scenic wonders. Stay: Fable MGallery (or similar), Auckland (B/L)

Wake up to breakfast at your hotel, setting the perfect tone for a day of exploration and discovery. In the morning you'll board your luxury coach as we whisk you away to the captivating Sanctuary Mountain. Along the journey, we'll make a brief stop for a quick morning tea or coffee break, ensuring you're energized for the adventures ahead.

Immerse yourself in the wonders of Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari on a bespoke two-hour tour through its ancient forests. Discover the indigenous flora and fauna, their traditional uses, and gain fascinating insights into Māori herbal medicinal practices, the unique Rongoā Rākau. This unforgettable journey will take you deep into the heart of New Zealand's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

After our sanctuary adventure, we return to Hamilton City where you'll check in to your hotel. With the afternoon free to explore, Hamilton beckons with its myriad of attractions and experiences, promising a relaxing and enriching continuation of your journey. Stay: Novotel Tainui (or similar), Hamilton (B)

Indulge in a delicious breakfast spread at your hotel to start the day. Today our journey begins as we depart from Hamilton in style aboard our exclusive coach, as we travel to the enchanting Zealong Tea Estate, where an immersive 1.5-hour tour and tea ceremony await, followed by the renowned Signature High Tea experience. Discover the art of tea-making amidst breathtaking surroundings.

At midday, we bid farewell to Zealong and head to the Hamilton Gardens for a captivating 75-minute Highlights tour, commencing at 1 pm. Immerse yourself in the beauty and history of these renowned gardens. (Please note: No packed lunch included)

Our journey continues into the afternoon as we board our coach for a visit to the Hamilton Museum, where you'll have the opportunity to explore its treasures at your leisure. After an enriching day of exploration, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Let your curiosity guide you as you uncover the wonders of Hamilton at your own pace. Stay: Novotel Tainui (or similar), Hamilton (B)

Rise with an indulgent breakfast at your hotel before our adventure begins as we depart for Hamilton Frankton Station. Embark on a journey like no other as we board the Northern Explorer train from Hamilton Station. Prepare for a feast for the senses with our Scenic Plus dining experience, offering unparalleled views and culinary delights. Our train adventure leads us to Ohakune Station, where the next leg of our journey awaits. Embark on a scenic drive along the breathtaking Ohakune Mountain Road.

After a day of exploration, we return to your accommodation in Ohakune for the next two nights' stay. As evening falls, indulge in culinary delight with a two-course dinner included for the entire group, promising a perfect end to an unforgettable day of adventure and discovery. Stay: Powderhorn Ohakune (or similar), Ohakune (B/L/D)

Enjoy the morning with breakfast at your accommodation, then set off on a journey of discovery to Taumarunui. Delight your senses with a visit to the Forgotten World Gardens. Enjoy the ambiance as you spend a few hours in Taumarunui, exploring a local garden before your lunchtime feast at Laurens Lavender Farm. Indulge in a hot meat dish accompanied by an array of refreshing salads, followed by a walk amidst the fragrant lavender fields and a visit to the lavender shop.

After your garden escapades, you'll return to Ohakune, where the evening is yours to spend how you like. Opt for relaxation in the inviting hot tubs or immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Ohakune at your leisure. Stay: Powderhorn Ohakune (or similar), Ohakune (B/L)

Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation. Head away on an adventure, exploring the wonders of Tūroa with the opportunity to ascend the Sky Waka (at your own cost), offering unparalleled views of the majestic landscape. Conclude your morning journey at National Park station, ready for the next leg of your adventure. Embark on the Northern Explorer Scenic Plus experience from National Park to Wellington. Indulge in an afternoon tea and dinner served onboard the train, enhancing your journey's breathtaking vistas. As evening approaches, Tranzit will transfer you from Wellington Station to your hotel where comfort and relaxation await, promising the perfect end to a day of discovery. Stay: Naumi Hotel (or similar), Wellington (B/L/D)

Start your day with breakfast at your accommodation and relax before starting a tour at Te Papa museum. Step outside and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you cross the road to enter Te Papa, New Zealand's national museum. Embark on a captivating journey with a 90-minute Māori Experience Kīnaki Tour at Te Papa, led by a knowledgeable Māori guide. Explore the rich cultural heritage of Aotearoa New Zealand as you discover the unique tools, foods, and medicines of the iwi taketake (first peoples of the land). Conclude your tour with a traditional food tasting experience, and engaging conversations with your hosts.

The afternoon is yours to explore the charms of Wellington at your leisure, with optional activities awaiting your discovery. Gather in the lobby of your hotel to welcome new guests joining the tour, fostering connections and shared experiences. Indulge in an included dinner at a renowned Wellington restaurant, savoring culinary delights that reflect the vibrant flavors of New Zealand, promising a perfect end to an enriching day of exploration and cultural immersion. Stay: Naumi Hotel (or similar), Wellington (B/D)

As your journey ends, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel letting you relish those last moments of your stay. It's time to say goodbye as you check out of the hotel. As you prepare to depart, rest assured that your departure transfer is included, ensuring a seamless transition as you head towards your next destination. Reflect on the memories created during your stay, carrying with you the experiences and adventures that have enriched your journey. (B)