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8 day northern experience

highlights
Explore Auckland
Waitangi Treaty Reserve
Bay of Islands
Waitomo Caves
Skyline Gondola ride
Maori Hangi and concert
Te Papa, New Zealand's National Museum

itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Auckland
On arrival at the hotel the remainder of your day is at leisure to explore Auckland. (Flights to arrive prior to 4.00pm). Perhaps you would like to visit the Sky Tower for amazing views of the city, the harbour and surrounding volcanic hills or explore the beautiful parks and gardens. Tonight enjoy a welcome drink with your Tour Director and fellow travellers.
Accommodation: Stamford Plaza, Auckland.

Day 2: Auckland - Bay of Islands
Cross the Auckland Harbour Bridge, then settle back and take in the amazing scenery of the Hibiscus Coast. Walk amongst the magnificent Kauri trees at Parry Kauri Park, then journey to the beautiful Bay of Islands. Enjoy a visit to the Waitangi Treaty Reserve which has great historical importance, as this is where New Zealand's founding document, the Treaty of Waitangi, was signed. You will have time to explore the Reserve and take in highlights such as the magnificent Maori War Canoe and traditional meeting house.
Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel & Resort, Bay of Islands, 2 nights.

Day 3: Bay of Islands
Today is free for you to experience the beauty of the Bay of Islands at your own pace - perhaps take a coach trip to Cape Reinga, via idyllic Ninety Mile Beach; enjoy a guided sea-kayaking trip or a day of sailing. Tonight is at leisure - why not dine at a local restaurant?

Day 4: Bay of Islands - Auckland
This morning take a scenic cruise through game fishing waters to Cape Brett and, weather permitting, through the famous 'Hole in the Rock' formation. The return cruise to Paihia meanders through picturesque islands - see deserted sandy beaches and secluded bays and keep your eyes out for marine life. This afternoon enjoy the lush farmland scenery as you return to Auckland, the City of Sails.
Accommodation: Stamford Plaza, Auckland.

Day 5: Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo Caves
Today we experience a guided tour of the famous Waitomo Caves and discover the incredible Glow-worm Grotto on an underground boat trip.
Tonight enjoy a special evening of entertainment presenting The Realm of Tãne, an extraordinary journey through Maori culture, mythology and our story of creation, which is followed by a delicious Maori Hangi & Concert. You will be greeted with a traditional Maori welcome ceremony, called a Powhiri, before experiencing a night of authentic traditional culture and entertainment and a delicious Hangi feast.
Accommodation: Millennium Hotel, Rotorua, 2 nights.

Day 6: Rotorua
We begin our day with a ride on the Skyline Gondola and breakfast with sparkling wine overlooking Rotorua. We also visit Paradise Valley Springs and enjoy an entertaining look at farm life at the Agrodome's Sheep Show. Later, tour the Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve where a local Maori guide escorts us past pools of boiling mud and geysers. We also view kiwis here. This afternoon there is free time for you to relax, explore or join an optional tour.

FARM STAY OPTION
Spend the night with a local family on a nearby farm. Enjoy some true New Zealand hospitality. Additional cost per person.

Day 7: Rotorua to Wellington
Today we travel south stopping to view the mighty Huka Falls. Travel along the eastern shore of New Zealand's largest lake, Lake Taupo before climbing on to the vast volcanic plateau of the Tongariro National Park. Weather permitting, stop for photos of Mt Ruapehu, home of New Zealand's longest ski field. Visit the gumboot capital of the World, Taihape. See lush farmlands of the Manawatu and enjoy a picturesque drive into the Capital City of Wellington. Tonight is free for you to explore New Zealand's capital city.
Accommodation: Novotel Capital, Wellington

Day 8: Depart Wellington
This morning we enjoy a sightseeing tour of Wellington and take in the panoramic views from the top of Mt Victoria. There's time to explore the Parliament Buildings and The Beehive, home to New Zealand's politicians. Visit Te Papa, New Zealand's National Museum and explore the fascinating exhibits at your leisure, including their unique Marae or Maori Meeting House. Later, you will be transferred to Wellington Airport for your onward flight. (Flights to depart after 2.00pm)

inclusions
Luxury coach transport 7 nights accommodation 7 Full Buffet Breakfasts Maori Hangi Dinner and concert 2 Hotel Dinners Cruise to Cape Brett and Hole in the Rock Maori Guided Tour of Waitangi Treaty Reserve Waitomo Caves Glow worm grotto tour Skyline Gondola ride and breakfast with sparkling wine Entry to Paradise Valley Springs Entry to Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve Tour of Wellington Welcome Drink All purpose travel bag and map Airport transfers and porterage included

departures
Tour ZABW: departs Auckland, returns Wellington
Tour ZWBA: departs Wellington, returns Auckland (reverse order)
Departure Dates: click here

additional information
Operated by: AAT Kings – Tour Code: ZABW/ZWBA
Rates: are per person twin share, and in Australian dollars including GST.
Children: Children aged 5-15 years are charged the child rate, and must be escorted by at least one adult. Children under the ages of 5 years are ineligible to join AAT Kings Tours.

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