North Island Wonders

Start your New Zealand adventure with an ascent of Auckland’s Sky Tower, where you can dine in the revolving restaurant 190 metres above the ground. Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city, with plenty of museums and galleries to keep you entertained, as well as a beautiful harbour framed by volcanic scenery, making for a natural playground. Why not take the boat to Waiheke Island and rub shoulders with the artists and millionaires who inhabit this peaceful haven?

4* Avani Metropolis Auckland Residences

Cruise the blue waters of the picturesque Bay of Islands, a collection of almost 150 islets dotted among glittering turquoise waters. Jump on board a cruise to the iconic Hole in the Rock, and check out the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, location for the signing of the agreement between Maori chiefs and British colonists. While you’re here, you’ll head out to sea in search of dolphins and if you’re lucky, jump in and swim with these amazing creatures.

4* Copthorne Hotel & Resort Bay of Islands

Return to Auckland and continue exploring this vibrant city. Take a stroll along the waterfront or perhaps take a boat ride out on the Hauraki Gulf. For a relaxing afternoon’s stroll, head down to Parnell, the city’s oldest suburb dating from 1841, and check out the Auckland War Memorial Museum or the blooming Parnell Rose Garden.

4* Avani Metropolis Auckland Residences

Discover the steaming hot springs, geysers and bubbling mud baths of Rotorua, a natural geothermal playground. You might need to hold your nose here, as there is a distinct scent of sulphur in the air. It’s not just about the geology though – the town boasts 18 sparkling lakes, various luging tracks, mountain bike trails and lakeside walking pathways. Rotorua is also the centre of New Zealand’s Maori culture, and a great place to learn more about Maori traditions.

4* Rydges Rotoura

Get active in Taupo, where rafting, skydiving, hiking and mountain biking are all on offer. See the lake from the water’s edge, from a boat or even from the air. The friendly little town of Taupo is worth a wander too, as it’s home to boiling mud pools, steaming vents and intricate volcanic rock formations. Perhaps try the L’Arté Café and Sculpture Garden, which serves excellent coffee among the sculptures and coloured mosaics.

4* The Reef resort

After the devastating earthquake of 1931, Napier was completely rebuilt in an art deco style, and many of these intriguing buildings remain to this day. Take a look at the classic Daily Telegraph office or re-enact the Great Gatsby in a chauffeur driven car tour of the best of the architecture. Your Journey could include a wine tasting tour in Hawke’s Bay, where you can sip on fine Sauvignon Blanc or fruity Syrah and tuck into a tasty cheese platter among the vines.

4* Scenic Hotel Te Pania

On this part of your journey you'll be amazed by thousands of magical glowworms above, as you glide silently by boat in the world-famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Walkthrough the majestic Cathedral Cave famous for its acoustics, and enjoy listening to stories about Maori culture from local guidesGuided since the late 1880s, you'll experience the original iconic New Zealand attraction. 

4* The Reef resort

On your final two days in Auckland, you'll encounter incredible wildlife on a Whale and Dolphin Safari Cruise. Enjoy spectacular views of Auckland landmarks, Interact with onboard marine science experts, and learn from expert and informative commentary.

4* Avani Metropolis Auckland Residences