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Explore New Zealand’s largest city, Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, before heading north to the sub-tropical region of Northland for spectacular coastlines and culture on this five day itinerary.
Fly into Auckland International Airport. Check-in to your central Auckland hotel and spend the afternoon exploring the city’s hidden laneways. Make a stop at the city museum for a guided tour or cultural performance. In the evening, head to the Viaduct and stroll around the waterfront bars and eateries.
Take the ferry from downtown Auckland to Waiheke Island, on a scenic 40 minute ferry ride. Then get up close to nature on an exhilarating zipline and nature walk experience. While on the island visit one or two wineries to sample delicious cuisine and award-winning wine (not bookable through Explore).
Alternatively, wake up and take to the skies on a thrilling skydive for unbelievable views over the Auckland region!
After breakfast, collect a rental vehicle and drive an hour north to Matakana and visit a world-class garden, art and dining attraction. After lunch, track north-west for an hour towards Matakohe and visit a facinating museum about New Zealand’s native tree, the kauri. Continue driving north-east for an hour and a half to Tutukaka and spend the late afternoon exploring the beautiful coastline. Northland enjoys a warm and humid climate in summer and a mild winter, so pack your towel and bathing suit for beach strolls and swimming in the spring and autumn. Stay overnight in Tutukaka.
Spend the day on or below the water around the stunning Poor Knights Islands. In the afternoon, drive north to the Bay of Islands. Spend the night in Paihia or Russell (not bookable through Explore).
Visit the historic area of Waitangi and learn the stories of where New Zealand’s founding documents The Treaty of Waitangi and Te Tiriti o Waitangi were signed in 1840. Take an afternoon flight from Kerikeri (KKE) to Auckland on Air New Zealand (NZ) that connects with your international flight. Spend the night in Auckland before your departure, or join another Explore itinerary to extend your Aotearoa New Zealand trip.
Most experiences mentioned in this itinerary can be booked through the Explore New Zealand Discount Programme.