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New Zealand’s North Island is home to rich Maori culture and jaw-dropping scenery. This 5 day experience takes you from the cosmopolitan capital Wellington to Auckland. In Rotorua, you’ll have the rare chance to stay overnight at a Maori Marae – a truly unique and unforgettable experience! With some meals included, quality budget accommodation already sorted and heaps to keep you busy – this is the perfect travel option if you want to kick back and relax and enjoy the ride!

DAY 1:  WELLINGTON TO ROTORUA MARAE STAY
Our adventure begins in the cosmopolitan city of Wellington.  Once you’ve met up with your group this morning we depart Wellington and head north through farming country.  We head past the very active Mt Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe – the classical conical volcano most commonly recognised as Mt Doom from the epic “Lord of the Rings” trilogy – on to Lake Taupo. It’s here that geothermal steam, volcanic mountains and huge crater lakes remind you that this region rests immediately above the Pacific Ring of Fire.  We’ll make a stop at the raging waters of Huka Falls, and past Wairakei Geo-thermal area. You’ll see that Rotorua is truly alive as we drive through it on our way to our night’s accommodation. Tonight we will be staying in a traditional Maori Marae, we will be welcomed onto the Marae by the elders in traditional style.  If you wish you can walk to the Okere Falls or enjoy an afternoon swim in the lake.  Tonight is yours to enjoy the company of your friends, learn some Maori songs or star gaze when the lights go down.
Meals:   Dinner

DAY 2:  ROTORUA
After breakfast we will depart the Marae and head to Whakarewarewa Maori Village and Thermal Reserve.  Learn of the Maori lifestyle, history and customs on our tour and concert in this unique geothermal village.  See displays about traditional weapons, instruments and learn the intricate details of woodcarving. The afternoon is yours to explore Rotorua or you have time for an optional tour*, mudbaths and massages* might be for you, or if you feel a bit more active hire a mountain bike* and explore the fantastic Redwood Forest or try white water rafting*. After dinner you might want to relax under the stars as you soak in the thermally heated waters of the motel spas and pool.
Meals:  Breakfast

DAY 3:  ROTORUA TO PAIHIA, BAY OF ISLANDS
This morning we travel north along the Waikato River to Auckland, otherwise known as the “city of sails” and New Zealand’s largest city.  It’s here we have time for lunch and pick up any new passengers before our journey continues across Auckland’s scenic harbour and north Parry’s Kauri Park to check out a magnificent Kauri tree, whose ancestors once covered the island.  Continuing north we reach the seaside town of Paihia in the beautiful Bay of Islands, home to 144 islands, secluded bays and an abundance of marine life.  Once settled into our motel, the evening is yours to relax by the pool or head into town for a local meal (own expense).
Meals:  Breakfast

DAY 4:  PAIHIA, BAY OF ISLANDS
Today is yours to explore this fascinating region by way of a range of optional activities – you’ll be spoilt for choice!  Try a drive along, or flight over, 90 Mile Beach to Cape Reinga* where the Pacific Ocean meets the Tasman Sea and board down the Te Paki sand dunes.  Relax as you sail the inner Bay on a catamaran and look for dolphins*, take a paddle through mangrove forest to Haruru Falls* or take a day cruise and hike at Cape Brett*. Alternatively you can explore the town or take a step back in time and learn a little of the history of New Zealand at the Waitangi Treaty House*. There’s time to visit Russell, the oldest settlement in New Zealand or hike to the Haruru falls through native bush. Maybe take a boat to swim with the local dolphins* or a fast boat out to, and through, the “Hole in the Rock”*.  If chilling on the beach is your scene, then relax - the day is yours!! We’ll gather for dinner and swap stories at the end of our day in the Bay!
Meals:  Breakfast and Dinner

DAY 5:  PAIHIA TO AUCKLAND
This morning we start our journey southwards. If the weather is in our favour today we’ll enjoy the local scenery with a walk to view Whangarei Falls.  It’s then onto Auckland and as we again cross the bridge you can appreciate the magnificent harbour, islands and modern city environment that has created a lifestyle ranked amongst the best in the world. Not a bad spot to finish your journey with us!
Meals:  Breakfast

**Our experienced guides will tailor all of the activities based on seasonal & cultural conditions throughout the year, to maximise your experience and enjoyment.  Any deviation from this itinerary will be made with serious consideration and your best interests and safety our priority.