Spirit Of New Zealand

Day 1. Auckland, Waipoua Kauri Forest
Arrive early this morning. Leave the big city behind and head north. Drop in at the Kauri Museum before visiting Tane Mahuta, the ‘Lord of the Forest’, with a Maori guide in the Waipoua Kauri Forest. View the towering Kauri tree, and walk to the Four Sisters and Te Mahuta Ngahere trees. Tonight you’ll enjoy a night Waipoua Rainforest Twilight Encounter.
Te Toroa Iwi, Waipoua Kauri Lodge
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Day 2. Paihia, Bay of Islands
This morning after breakfast make the short trip to Paihia and enjoy time at leisure this afternoon to explore the beautiful Bay of Islands, which is full of cultural and natural sightseeing highlights.
Two Nights: Bay of Islands, Heartland Hotel Beachcomber
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Day 3. Bay of Islands
Today tailor your touring to suit your mood. Perhaps swim with dolphins or visit Russell, the oldest settlement in New Zealand or, if you’re feeling active, hike to the Hararu Falls (all at own expense). Tonight why not try one of the great local restaurants for dinner with your new found friends.

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Day 4. Bay of Islands, Rotorua
Travel past Auckland on the way to Rotorua, a geothermal wonderland with bubbling mud pools, exploding geysers, springs and multi-coloured mineral terraces, Rotorua never fails to enthrall and excite. Check-in to your hotel then enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to explore Rotorua at your own pace.
Two Nights: Rotorua, Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua
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Day 5. Rotorua
Today is at leisure in Rotorua, and your options are virtually endless. Perhaps go rafting on the Kaituna River, stand on active volcanoes or learn about weaving and wood carving techniques at Te Puia Maori Arts and Crafts Institute (all at own expense).

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Day 6. Rotorua, Tongariro National Park
Follow the Thermal Explorer Highway through green countryside, native bush and alpine forests. Then visit Huka Falls and Lake Taupo. If the weather’s fine, there may be time for a swim in the clear waters. Continue south and cross the vast plateau of World Heritage-listed Tongariro National Park. This afternoon is at your leisure to explore one of the many fine walking tracks.
Tongariro National Park, The Park Traveller’s Lodge
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Day 7. Tongariro, Wellington
Travel to the nation’s capital, Wellington. Take a guided tour of Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand, then enjoy free time to check out the restaurants, bars and cafés around your hotel.
Comfort and Quality Hotel Wellington
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Day 8. Wellington
Enjoy breakfast then depart tour.

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