Travel Type
Guided Tours
Duration
7 Days/6 Nights
Country
New Zealand
Experience New Zealand’s North Island on this small-group tour. This guided journey takes you from Auckland’s harbor to Wellington’s streets, blending stunning landscapes, Maori culture, and Kiwi hospitality.
Highlights of the Trip:
– Natural Wonders: Explore the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Rotorua’s geothermal parks, and the thundering Huka Falls.
– Serene Escapes: Relax by the shores of Lake Aniwhenua and the turquoise waters of Lake Taupo.
– Local Flavors: Enjoy a traditional Māori hangi feast in Murupara, wine tastings at Napier’s Mission Estate Winery, and Wellington’s famous coffee scene.
Inclusions
– 6-night accommodation in hotels 4*
– 10 meals: 6 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners
– Luxury Coach
– English-speaking guide
– Visits as per itinerary:
– Buried Village in Rotorua
– Lake Aniwhenua Cultural Experience
– Te Papa National Museum of New Zealand
– Mission Estate Winery Lunch and Wine Tasting
– Waitomo Caves Experience
Exclusions
International flights – Tourist taxes – NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority): An NZeTA application costs NZD 17 via our free mobile app, or NZD 23 if completed online at https://nzeta.immigration.govt.nz/ – Gratuities for hotel staff, guides, and drivers – Optional excursions – Meals other than those mentioned – Drinks unless otherwise specified in the itinerary – Travel insurance – Any other items not mentioned in the inclusions.
1
DAY 1 ARRIVAL IN AUCKLAND
Haere Mai (Welcome) to Aotearoa New Zealand! Your journey begins in vibrant Tamaki Makaurau, Auckland, New Zealand’s largest and most cosmopolitan city. Known as the City of Sails, Auckland is home to two stunning harbours, sparkling waterfront views, and an incredible volcanic landscape, with more than 44 dormant volcanoes waiting to be explored. Upon arrival, make your way to the centrally located Oaks Auckland Hotel in downtown Auckland, the perfect base to begin your adventure. Check-in, drop off your bags, and take a moment to soak in the city’s atmosphere. At reception, you will receive a welcome letter containing essential tour details. This evening, meet your fellow travellers and friendly tour guide at 6:15 pm before heading out at 6:30 pm for a delicious welcome dinner, the perfect opportunity to connect, relax, and get excited for the unforgettable days ahead.
Meals : Dinner
Accommodation : Auckland for 1 night
2
DAY 2 AUCKLAND - ROTORUA
This morning, we depart Auckland for a day filled with unforgettable sights and experiences. Our first stop is Waitomo Glowworm Caves, world-renowned for their enchanting glowworms. Step aboard a boat and glide silently through a magical cavern illuminated by thousands of tiny glowworms, then explore ancient limestone formations shaped over millions of years. This breathtaking natural wonder was even featured by Sir David Attenborough during his visit to Aotearoa New Zealand. From there, we continue to Rotorua, a geothermal paradise and vibrant centre of Maori culture. Discover bubbling mud pools, erupting geysers, and the rich traditions that make Rotorua one of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations. This evening, we gather for a delicious group dinner before settling in for a relaxing night in Rotorua, ready to embrace tomorrow’s adventures.
Meals : Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation : Rotorua for 2 nights
3
DAY 3 ROTORUA
This morning, we travel along the shores of Lake Rotorua to a stunning lookout over the dramatic Mount Tarawera, once home to the legendary Pink and White Terraces before the devastating 1886 eruption reshaped the landscape. Our exploration continues at the Buried Village of Te Wairoa, New Zealand’s most visited archaeological site, where we uncover the fascinating stories and preserved remains of this historic event. In the afternoon, we wander beneath the towering redwoods and magnificent Douglas firs of Whakarewarewa Forest, surrounded by New Zealand’s iconic silver ferns. You will then have free time to explore Rotorua at your own pace, perhaps stroll through Kuirau Park to see bubbling mud pools and steaming lakes, wander through the elegant Government Gardens, relax in the healing waters of the Polynesian Spa, or take the Skyline Gondola for sweeping views over this geothermal wonderland.
Meals : Breakfast
4
DAY 4 ROTORUA - TAUPO
This morning, we head to the serene shores of Lake Aniwhenua in Murupara for an authentic taste of real New Zealand. Here, you will be welcomed by the passionate Maori whanau (family) who own Kohutapu Lodge, a community-focused haven dedicated to revitalising the local town through inspiring cultural and social initiatives. Your experience begins with a guided visit to sacred Maori rock carvings, rich with ancestral stories, before returning to the lodge to watch the preparation of a traditional ground-cooked hangi. As the earth oven is lifted, the aromas will fill the air, and once served, you will enjoy what may be the most unforgettable meal of your trip. After this heartfelt experience, we continue to Taupo to witness the striking blue waters of Huka Falls and take in sweeping views over magnificent Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation : Taupo for 1 night
5
DAY 5 TAUPO - NAPIER
After breakfast, we journey to the sun-soaked Hawke’s Bay region, home to some of New Zealand’s finest wineries. In Napier, a visit to the historic Mission Estate Winery is a must. Enjoy a wine tasting followed by a leisurely lunch featuring exquisite local cuisine, perfectly paired with award-winning wines, all while soaking up the region’s golden sunshine and stunning vineyard views. Later, we take a short drive to the charming coastal town of Napier, renowned for its beautifully preserved Art Deco architecture. Stroll along the tree-lined promenade, explore the boutique shops, or dine on freshly caught seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants, all while enjoying views of the sparkling Pacific Ocean. It’s the perfect blend of culture, culinary delights, and coastal charm.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation : Napier for 1 night
6
DAY 6 NAPIER - WELLINGTON
This morning, we depart Napier and journey south to Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital, renowned for its café culture and arguably the country’s best coffee. Along the way, we stop in Greytown, the Wairarapa’s oldest town, for lunch. With its beautifully restored Victorian buildings and charming boutique shops, it is the perfect place to stretch your legs and soak up the village’s quaint atmosphere before continuing on to Wellington. With a population of just under 220,000, Wellington perfectly blends a relaxed coastal vibe with a thriving arts and cultural scene. The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure, perhaps wander along the waterfront, browse local galleries, or visit Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand’s national museum, home to fascinating exhibits that celebrate the country’s unique history, culture, and natural wonders.
Meals : Breakfast
Accommodation : Wellington for 1 night
7
DAY 7 DEPARTURE FROM WELLINGTON
Today is the final day of the tour, as our journey comes to an end. Enjoy breakfast before bidding a fond farewell to your tour guide and your fellow travelers, who may now feel like friends. Whether you are travelling home today or staying in Wellington a little longer, we hope you leave with lasting memories, a full photo gallery, and new friendships to cherish.
Meals : Breakfast
HOTEL OPTIONS OR SIMILAR
Auckland
Oaks Hotel 4.5*
Rotorua
Distinction Rotorua 4*
Taupo
Anchorage Taupo 4*
Napier
Scenic Hotel Te Pania 4*
Wellington
Naumi Wellington 4*
| Rates in CA$, per person, starting from | Land Package |
| Daily departures 2026-2027 | Double occupancy |
| 2026 September 18 October 2, 16 November 20 December 4 | 3919 |
| 2027 January 15, 29 February 12, 26 March 12, 26 April 9 | 3919 |
| Supplements | |
| Single occupancy | On request |
Product Code: ANZ
Minimum of 8 people required to guarantee departure.
Maximum of 24 people per departure.
**Prices in this document are for information only; they were issued at press time, for the current year. Please note that due to exchange rates and temporary promotions, they can increase or decrease at any time. Contact your travel agent for the price and promotion of the moment. Prices include the contribution of customers to the Compensation Fund for clients of Quebec travel agents.
*** PLEASE CAREFULLY READ OUR TERMS & CONDITIONS. ***
Northern Explorer – Detailed Itinerary
Northern Explorer – Detailed Itinerary
