Inspiring New Zealand

Following a city sights tour of Auckland this morning we board the ferry to Waiheke Island. With pristine beaches, world class wines, and fantastic cuisine it's easy to see why Waiheke Island is considered the jewel in the Hauraki Gulfs crown. Just 35 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland you'll feel like you're a world away as we embrace the essence of Waiheke with our local guide. Enjoy wine tasting at some of Waiheke's award-winning vineyards, including a light lunch before we cruise the Hauraki Gulf back to the city.

Tonight, enjoy a free evening; why not try one of the many restaurants in Wynyard Quarter or the Viaduct.

Your leisurely discovery of New Zealand's North Island continues as you follow the meandering trail of the Waikato River to the famous Waitomo Caves for an exclusive 5-star Eco Glow Worm experience. Your guide sets the scene for a cave experience where you will see glow worms, cave formations and appreciate the beauty of Footwhistle Cave.

Journey to the volatile landscapes of Rotorua, where Maori culture takes centre stage. Visit the Tamaki Maori Village for insights into the local rituals and traditions of this fascinating culture. Embrace their gracious Hongi greeting, experience the heart-pounding wero challenge and enjoy a Local Dining Experience, the delicious flavours of the Hangi cooked in the earth with geothermal steam. Stay: Pullman Rotorua

A harbourside city, Wellington is rich in natural beauty, but the wild wind has driven an exciting indoor life too, there's a world-leading café culture, great multicultural restaurants, contemporary art and live music. This is your chance to know it like a local on a guided walking tour.  Discover the stunning waterfront to the hidden laneways in the bohemian area: the heritage Cuba Street precinct.

Once dimly-lit back alleys, these newly rejuvenated laneways are now home to some of the country's funkiest bars, boutiques and breweries. Experience premium batch peanut butter tasting from an artisan supplier, and a taste of the Capital's very own chocolate and you'll see for yourself that Wellington really is the coffee and craft beer capital of New Zealand!

This afternoon, we continue to the urban eco-sanctuary of Zealandia, admiring the extraordinary efforts of conservationists who have reintroduced 18 species of native wildlife that were absent from mainland New Zealand for over a century.