State: New Zealand
Operator: Adventure Express
Minimum Price: AUD $ 3,950

A luxury tour featuring small numbers of 12 guests in air conditioned transport, this 9 day tour  to the Northland, Coromandel Peninsula, Central North Island, Wellington

Day 1 We meet in Auckland and depart for Northland, the country's remote, northern-most region. A scenic drive through rolling farmland and coastal villages brings us to our lodge overlooking the breathtaking Bay of Islands . The afternoon allows you to freshen up and unwind from your overseas journey. This evening, we catch a ferry to historic Russell for a stroll and dinner by the bay.

Day 2 This region was a major port for the logging and shipping of ancient kauri trees at the turn of the last century. Those inclined can join us for a day walking amongst those giants that remain and exploring tracks that highlight the grandeur of the magnificent coastline. Alternatively, enjoy the comfort of the lodge and the beauty of its setting.

Day 3 This morning, we board a sailing vessel to cruise around the multitude of picturesque islands. Set the sails, take the helm, or sit back and enjoy the sea breeze and views. We anchor for lunch and a swim or island walk, then return to Russell for our final dinner here.

Day 4 We bid the lodge farewell and return to Auckland, stopping at scenic points along the way. Just north of the city, on the ruggedly beautiful west coast, is one of New Zealand's largest gannet colonies. We stop for a close-up view of these wonderful birds as they court, breed, and nest. In Auckland, our hotel is located in the heart of downtown. Dinner this evening is on your own, so you are free to explore the city and its excellent dining options.

Day 5 Departing Auckland, we head for the lush and peaceful Coromandel Peninsula. This afternoon, we join a member of an award-winning team of naturalists for a half-day excursion through the Coromandel’s subtropical rainforest. Our lodge for the next two nights lies in a tiny seaside village, and is just a short stroll from one of the prettiest beaches in New Zealand.

Day 6 A casual day is spent enjoying the region. A hike along the coast leads to a secluded cove featuring beautiful sandstone formations – a perfect place to contemplate nature's wonders. During our stay, we take a trip to nearby Hot Water Beach. With thermal waters brewing just below the surface of the sand, we dig our own natural hot pools and soak as we listen to the waves crash against the shore – a truly unique and memorable experience.

Day 7 We head south to Rotorua, a cultural center for Maoridom and an active volcanic region. Here, we visit the Rotorua Museum, housed in the historic Bath House where visitors came over a century ago to "take the cures" in the mineral waters. After a fascinating private tour of the museum, those who wish to test the healing theories of the water can head to Rotorua’s modern spa facility for a soak in its thermal pools. This evening, we are welcomed as guests at a Maori meeting house, or marae, for a fascinating introduction to Maori culture. Dinner at the marae is an opportunity to sample both traditional and modern Maori fare.

Day 8 There are two options for experiencing the region's volcanic features today, depending on conditions. The first is to travel by land then by boat to White Island, an active volcano 30 miles off the eastern coast. We explore the volcano on foot, hosted by professional guides.
If conditions preclude a trip to white island, the alternative option is to take a scenic flight over the giant crater resulting from the 1886 eruption of Mt. Tarawera, then view some of the active geothermal features of the area by land – boiling lakes, turquoise pools, and hot streams which continue to change and develop. We take a hike in the nearby forest and explore other interesting features of this thermal wonderland.

Day 9 This morning, you depart Rotorua and fly to Wellington, New Zealand’s picturesque capital city. As well as Parliament, Wellington is home to Te Papa, the country’s spectacular national museum. For those who wish to take in this cultural and architectural feat, along with the other wonderful features of the city, your day is free to explore on your own. Our hotel is located in the heart of the city, and we reconvene this evening to dine at a favorite Wellington restaurant.
Wellington is the final destination for the 9-day Experience North Island excursion. We bid you farewell at dinner tonight and wish you well for your onward travel. You will be transferred to the airport the following day to meet your flights.

What's Included?

• Airport transfers
• Accommodation
• Meals
• Activities
• Transport, with the exception of those items noted in the itinerary.
  
• Experienced Tour guides
  

Notes:

Special Departure Dates: October 21
October 28
November 25
January 13 2008
January 20 2008
February 17 2008
March 16 2008
March 23 2008
Departs from: Auckland
Tour Ends: Wellington
All Prices: Prices quoted in US$ 3,950 pp plus $395 for single supplement
Prices Quoted in UK£ 2,200pp plus £220 for single supplement