Compare New Zealand's North Island self-drive by Audley Travel
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| Trip |
5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 19 days |
| Price From | $ 5,401 |
| Price Per Day | $ 284 |
| Highlights |
N/A
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| Trip Style | Private guided tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard |
| Physical Level |
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| Travel Themes |
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| Countries Visited | |
| Cities and Attractions |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included |
| Activities |
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| Meals Included | N/A |
| Description |
New Zealand has the kind of scenery that demands a standing ovation — and it’s all in such close proximity. Our specialists are passionate about helping you get out to explore it all. There are Milford Sound’s arrow-headed peaks, and stretches of sand so vast they earn outlandish names (‘Ninety Mile Beach’). Caves spangle with glow-worms like a million fairy lights. Stratovolcanoes rise above grassy plains. Ice fields career down almost to the edge of the Tasman Sea. And that’s just for starters. |
Day 1 : International outbound flight
Today you begin your journey by boarding your international outbound flight to Auckland.
Day 2 : International outbound flight
On-board your international outbound flight to Auckland.
Day 3 : Auckland
Upon arrival in Auckland you will be welcomed by one of our representatives and transferred by private vehicle to your accommodation in the central city.
Day 4 : Auckland
Today you join an excursion that takes you to the hidden spots of Auckland city, the rugged Waitakere Ranges, just outside of Auckland, and then on to the beautiful black sand beaches of the western shores. Your Maori guide will explain the cultural significance of the area on this fascinating day out.
Day 5 : Coromandel Peninsula
You collect a hire car from the downtown depot this morning and make your way to the Coromandel Peninsula. You can either take the more direct route through the mountain ranges of the Coromandel Peninsula which takes around two and a half hours or drive round the longer coastal road to see the stunning coastline and stop in at the Coromandel Mussel Kitchen for lunch, then visit Stuart and his wild pigs on the 309 road. The coastal drive takes around five hours but is not to be missed!
Day 6 : Coromandel Peninsula
You have today at leisure to enjoy the Coromandel area. Don't miss Hot Water Beach and Cathedral Cove! If you took the direct road over yesterday we suggest exploring the coastal road today.
Day 7 : Whakatane
Make your way along the Bay of Plenty to Whakatane where you will spend tonight before your exciting trip to the active volcano of White Island.
Day 8 : Whakatane
Today you take a boat trip out to White Island and spend some time walking around the rugged terrain at the base with your guide, there may even be time for a swim at the end of the trip.
Day 9 : Gisborne
You make your way through scenic Waioeka Gorge today across to the southern coast, and the laid-back town of Gisborne.
Day 10 : Gisborne
Enjoy a day at leisure exploring some of the beautiful white sand beaches along the eastern coast. This is a great place to try your hand at surfing!
Day 11 : Napier & Hawkes Bay
Make your way along the coast to Hastings in the Hawkes Bay wine region today. This evening you will enjoy the best wine tour in the area, where you visit several wineries. You will be served a tasting menu dinner throughout the evening, with one course accompanied by beautifully paired wines at each location.
Day 12 : Napier & Hawkes Bay
A day at leisure to enjoy the art deco city of Napier and the surrounding vineyards of Hawkes Bay. You may like to join an Art Deco tour of the town or visit the gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers.
Day 13 : Tongariro National Park
You head inland today to the volcanic interior of the North Island, and three peaks of Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu that make up Tongariro National Park.
Day 14 : Tongariro National Park
You have a day at leisure and weather permitting may like to try the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing walk today. For something less strenuous take a more leisurely stroll in the National Park or ride the chair-lift up to the top for some spectacular views.
Day 15 : New Plymouth & Taranaki
You journey along the 'Forgotten World Highway' today, a scenic drive through some very rural landscapes which brings you out on the eastern side of Taranaki (Egmont) National Park.
Day 16 : New Plymouth & Taranaki
Enjoy a day exploring the slopes of Mount Taranaki, or enjoying views of the volcano from the beaches around New Plymouth.
Day 17 : Waitomo
Today you make your way to Waitomo, and take a tour around the famous glow-worm caves.
Day 18 : International return flight
Make your way to Auckland airport today and return your hire car as you join your international flight.
Day 19 : International return flight
Arrive home today to complete your journey.
