Classic Kiwi

West Coast to Bay of Islands

This morning is all about flexibility. If we didn’t visit Waipoua yesterday, you’ll explore the forest today - either en route or via a complimentary local shuttle.

We’ll then cross the Far North toward the east coast, stopping at a winery after lunch for a relaxed wine tasting before arriving in Paihia later in the afternoon. After checking into your hotel, the rest of the day and evening are completely free.

Take time to unwind by the waterfront, choose from a range of optional activities, or simply explore this vibrant Bay of Islands town at your own pace.

Free Day in the Bay of Islands

Today is yours to design.

Spend the day exactly how you like - cruise the Bay of Islands, go dolphin spotting, kayak to secluded beaches, visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, or simply enjoy a relaxed day by the water with great food and ocean views.

Your included Waitangi Treaty Grounds combo pass allows you to explore the grounds at your own pace. Your guide will be on hand throughout the day to help arrange optional activities or share local tips.

In the evening, you’ll come together for an included Hāngī dinner at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds - a traditional Māori feast and cultural experience.

We journey south today with a few unforgettable stops along the way.

Our first highlight is a stop in the charming Matakana Village. Enjoy some free time to relax over lunch, browse the boutique shops and local galleries, or sample the region’s renowned wines at The Vintry, which offers tastings from a selection of local vineyards. It’s the perfect laid-back way to wrap up your Northland adventure before returning to Auckland in the late afternoon.

After a few scenic stops on the stunning drive to Coromandel Peninsula, we arrive into the coastal town of Hahei. Explore the Gateway to Narnia at Cathedral Cove, spend the afternoon kayaking or swimming in the turquoise waters then catch the sunset from the natural hot pools on Hot Water Beach.

Say goodbye to the Coromandel as we head to Rotorua. On the way, we stop at the Thermal Wonderland Wai-O-Tapu where you will discover a spectacular showcase of New Zealand’s most colourful and unique geothermal elements sculpted by thousands of years of geothermal activity.

Dive into a jam-packed day at the geothermal and cultural centre of New Zealand, Rotorua. Luging, zorbing, white water rafting, cultural performances or simply marvelling at the unique geothermal landscape; there’s heaps to do here! In the evening you'll have the option to visit the magical Mitai Maori Village. Here, you can learn and engage with Maori culture and traditions and enjoy a delicious hangi meal.

For the next part of our journey, we head to Taupo, the adventure capital of the North Island. We'll stop at Hobbiton on the way for you to experience the world-famous LOTR movie set. Next, you'll discover the thundering Huka Falls and its trout-filled rivers before we head for a sunset beer by the stunning Lake Taupo. In the evening, you can head out on the lake for an evening sailing cruise or try one of the fantastic local restaurants.

Explore the magnificent lake jetboating, sailing, or from 15,000ft above. Fancy a hike? Spend the day conquering one of the best one-day walks in the world, Tongariro Crossing. Whatever you choose, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Taupō!

The adventure continues to Waitomo, a town better known for what’s beneath it. Crawl, abseil, raft and squeeze your way through the dark abyss, lit only by the twinkling light of the glow worms above. After all that adventure it’s time for a beer on the beach in Raglan.

Raglan is New Zealand’s quintessential iconic laid-back surfer town. You’ll have the chance to explore the rugged landscape, and unique black sand beach and catch a few waves. Then we head back to Auckland to catch a flight to Christchurch to continue your epic adventure in the South.

To kick off your South Island adventure, we drive one of three scenic passes across the Southern Alps to the west coast. The Lewis Pass takes us through unmodified beech forests, alpine wetland and along the Lewis River. We have plenty of distance to cover but we will have stunning landscapes & stops on our way to the picturesque town of Punakaiki.

The ultimate beachside destination for adventure and exploration, this picturesque coastal village is full of exciting things to do but is best known for the Pancake Rock where columns of water shoot skyward from rocks that resemble giant stacks of hotcakes. Spend the afternoon experiencing luxuriant coastal forest, fantastic limestone cliffs and canyons, mysterious caves, pristine rivers, and an absolutely spectacular coastline.

Drive the wild west coast with stops that include lighthouse views and seal colonies. As we head inland we drive through the scenic Nelson Lakes towards arguably New Zealand’s most beautiful National Park, Abel Tasman. Spend the afternoon exploring the tiny town or go on an adventure to collect fresh green lipped mussels.

Today we head to Golden Bay, home to New Zealand's longest sandspit along with stunning beaches and wildlife. Be ready for an adventure today, as we stop to explore the Ngārua Caves followed by a walk around Te Waikoropupū Springs, some of the clearest water you will see. Finally, follow the track to the most northern point on the South Island at Wharariki Beach.

Kick back on the beach or, if you’re feeling adventurous, discover the raw natural beauty of Abel Tasman National Park by hiking parts of the track or grab a kayak and spend the day along the coastal track. If you’re lucky, you might spot native wildlife such as the Tui or Tuatara.

After a few epic adventures on our way out of town we head to the famed Marlborough Wine Region. Have a sip or two of its world-famous Sauvignon Blanc and snap some Insta-worthy shots in the vineyards. Our drive continues on to Kaikoura, there are very few places in the world that can boast such natural wonders as those offered by land and sea in this small community. As we come into town you'll notice the dramatic, rugged cliffs on the edge of town, which are as impressive as the whale watching and dolphin swimming.

Spend the morning ticking off the rest of your bucket list, whether it's spotting seals, searching for whales, or swimming with dolphins. After a morning of adventure, we will hop on the road to drive back to Christchurch. Spend the afternoon exploring the funky neighbourhoods of Christchurch.