from £1769.00
North Island Sojourn
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Day 1 Arrive Auckland
Arrive in Auckland at any time. There are no planned activities, so check into the hotel (check-in time is approx 3pm) and enjoy the city. In the late afternoon (approx 6 pm) meet your fellow group members to go over the details of your trip. Check the notice board or ask reception to see the exact time and location of this group meeting. After the meeting head out for a meal in a nearby local restaurant (optional). If you arrive late, no worries, the leader will leave you a message at the front desk. Welcome to the City of Sails with it’s distinctive pacific flavour and the picturesque Hauraki Gulf. Auckland is New Zealand's largest city with a population of one million people.
Day 2 Auckland
This morning we head out on a walking tour and to one of Auckland's many volcanoes for stunning views of the city. A free afternoon allows you to explore the many markets and the “Viaduct” which is the purpose built water front region for the America's Cup sailing challenges, now a well-frequented bar and restaurant hub for the locals.
Day 3 Coromandel Peninsula
Leaving Auckland behind we head to the rugged volcanic hills and spectacular coastline of the Coromandel region, a favourite holiday destination for many New Zealanders. Steeped in Maori and European history. The landscape is dotted with ancient Maori 'pa' sites and the first European to settle here was an American whaling ship deserter. The unique volcanic phenomenon of Hot Water Beach lets you dig a hole in the sand and create your own hot-water pool. But only when the tide is right so you can mix the hot with the cold! Nearby Cathedral Cove is best enjoyed by an optional kayak trip so you can truly appreciate the rock formations. There are many opportunities to enjoy the scenery and heritage of this region.
Day 4 Rotorua (D)
One of New Zealand's most interesting regions, Rotorua was shaped by volcanic forces with a backdrop of crater lakes. We stay overnight on a 'marae' - a traditional Maori meeting place and enjoy a traditional welcome, a steam or 'hangi' meal cooked in a pit with hot stones and covered in earth, and learn about Maori culture. We may also be able to soak in the thermal pools on the shore of Lake Rotorua. The accommodation here is traditionally in the meeting house which we all share.
Day 5-6 Tongariro National Park (B)
Our base for the next two days is Tongariro National Park village which has great views of Mt Tongariro, Mt Ngauruhoe (Mt Doom in the Lord of the Rings filming locations) and Mt Ruapehu . There are many 2 to 5 hour loop walks of varying difficulties to enjoy and for those who want to experience one of the best day treks in New Zealand, the Tongariro Crossing, providing the weather co-operates. Here you can see a multitude of coloured lakes and the rugged volcanic landscape has a very lunar quality about it. The views can be truly spectacular.
Day 7-8 Napier
Situated in the center of Hawkes Bay and known for wine, gourmet food, art deco designs and wonderful beaches. In Napier you can take an Art Deco walk, swim with the dolphins, see the gannets, catch a fish, taste Hawke's Bay wines, or float in a hot air balloon. There are also many galleries, heritage trails and country gardens to enjoy. We explore the wineries by bicycle and sample some of the tasty local wines.
Days 9-10 Wellington
Our last stop in the North Island is the capital city of Wellington, known amongst locals for very windy weather, it’s situated on a picturesque harbour surrounded by hills. Arriving in the afternoon of day 9, we have day 10 as a free day for you to visit any sights of interest. Visit Te Papa New Zealand's national museum, offering visitors a unique and authentic experience of this country's treasures and stories. You can explore the nation's nature, art, history, and heritage - from the shaping of its land to the spirit of its diverse peoples, from its unique wildlife to its distinctive art and visual culture. Parliament and the National Archives (home to the original Treaty of Waitangi) are also worth visiting. If you’d rather be out seeing the views ride the cable-car to the Botanic Gardens or you can catch a local bus to the summit of Mt Victoria for more spectacular views. Your leader can help make arrangements for any of the above optional activities.
Day 11 Marlborough Sounds
Taking the morning ferry from Wellington Harbour to Picton across the Cook Strait, we transfer to a smaller boat for a picturesque trip to our lodge in the Marlborough Sounds near the Queen Charlotte track. For great views we incorporate a 3 hour walk to the lodge, from shoreline to ridgeline and explore the hidden bays, coves and inlets that make up this unique area. Our bags and anyone who doesn’t wish to walk will be transferred directly to the lodge. Ample waterways and walking tracks, hidden hammocks in the lush fern groves, a wildlife recovery center and arts center, this waterside lodge has much to offer, including bush walking, fishing and kayaking. Ferry trip 3 ½ hrs, boat trip 20 mins.
Day 12 Kaikoura
Continuing our journey south along the coast we head to the stunning seaside town of Kaikoura, our base for the night. Kaikoura boasts a huge variety of marine life. There is a seal colony nearby and many activities you can indulge in. Go whale-watching on a boat or from the air or swim with dolphins. If you prefer to stay on land there are horseback rides along the foothills of the Kaikoura range with views out to sea. The choice is yours.
Day 13 Christchurch
The morning is free to continue exploring Kaikoura's variety of sights. Our arrival in Christchurch marks the end of our journey together. We arrive in the afternoon on day 13. Famous for its beautiful city gardens, and the province’s lust for sport, there’s plenty on offer in the South Island’s largest city. Take a stroll through the Botanical Gardens or a quiet punt ride on the river Avon. Catch a bit of culture at the local art gallery or ride the tram and admire the cities fine buildings and churches. If you can, take in a sporting event at Jade Stadium or for those eager to check out the nightlife head to the numerous bars and restaurants near Cashel Mall.
Day 14 Depart Christchurch
You are free to depart at any time on Day 14.
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