Northern Spotlight

Kia ora and welcome to Auckland, a city that’s easy to get swept up in. Arrive at your own pace and start exploring when you’re ready. You could wander the waterfront, watch the yachts glide by and grab a bite in the harbourside precincts. Or keep it simple and save your energy for what’s ahead. Tonight, meet your Travel Director who’ll give you the lowdown on the adventure to come. You’ll get the key details, a few handy local tips and a chance to meet your fellow travellers before you hit the road tomorrow.

Wave goodbye to the ‘City of Sails’ and head north to the Bay of Islands, where turquoise water wraps around more than 140 islands. It’s a stunner, with a story to match. At Waitangi, you’ll step into one of New Zealand’s most significant historic sites, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840. You’ll be welcomed onto the grounds with a powerful cultural performance. Your Local Guide will bring the place to life, sharing the meaning behind the site, pointing out the world’s largest ceremonial war canoe and showing you a beautifully carved meeting house.

Today is yours to shape, and the Bay of Islands is the perfect playground. Fancy going big? Choose a full-day Choice Experience up to Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua, travelling via the dreamy sweep of Ninety Mile Beach. Prefer to stay on the water? Jump on a Choice Experience with a scenic cruise among the islands with lunch, plus a visit to the iconic Hole in the Rock. Or slow things down with another Choice Experience of a tour of Russell to hear stories of early settlement and seaside life. However you spend it, keep your camera close. This place delivers.

On the way back south, you’ll get a taste of Northland’s easy charm. Stop in Whangārei, a coastal city that blends nature with a creative, forward-looking vibe. Stretch your legs, browse local spots and enjoy a little free time to explore at your own pace. Then settle in for the scenic drive back to Auckland, watching the landscapes shift from rural green to city buzz. Tonight, you’re back where it all began, with a chance to recharge and maybe tick off a few last sights, eats and waterfront views.

After a look at Auckland’s highlights, point the coach towards Waitomo Caves for a truly magical ride. Glide through underground waterways as thousands of glowworms light up the darkness like a living sky. Then it’s on to Rotorua, where the earth bubbles, steams and pops. At Te Puia, explore a geothermal valley and dive into Māori culture on a guided experience. You’ll enjoy a stirring performance inside a carved meeting house, see the mighty Pōhutu Geyser and finish with a buffet dinner of locally sourced hāngī-inspired flavours.

Rotorua is packed with options, and today you can choose your own pace. Want pure relaxation? Slip into holiday mode at Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa and soak it all in. Chasing movie magic? Join a Choice Experience to Hobbiton and wander the Shire sets from The Lord of the Rings films. Even if you’re not a superfan, the rolling countryside is worth the trip. Your Travel Director will have plenty of tips, from scenic walks to places to eat. Whether you go full-on or keep it chilled, you’ll finish the day feeling refreshed.

You’ll hear Huka Falls before you see it. Every second, an astonishing 220,000 litres of water roar through the narrow gorge and plunge 11 m (36 ft) down. Next, soak up the wide-open views of Lake Taupō, a vivid sweep of blue that looks almost unreal. Then follow the road south along the Kapiti Coast to Wellington, New Zealand’s cool little capital. This city loves good food, great coffee and a night out, so you’ll want local intel. Luckily, your Travel Director has the tips, from hidden bars to must-try spots for dinner.

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).