Down Under Answers
New Zealand
Self Drive
Islands & Thermal Country
5 day self drive from $631.00 per person based on double occupancy
Explore the most popular areas of New Zealand’s North Island at your own pace.
INCLUSIONS
- Stopover in beautiful Bay of Islands, including Cape Brett “Hole in the Rock” cruise
- Waitomo Glow Worm Caves
- Geothermal wonderland of Rotorua
- Experience Maori culture
- Native wildlife at Rainbow Springs>
ITINERARY
DAY 1 Arrive Auckland
Welcome to Auckland, the City of Sails. A visit to Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World, shopping or perhaps taking a walk around Auckland’s exciting marina and waterfront is recommended for your activites today.
DAY 2 Auckland/Bay Of Islands (149 miles)
(optional meal plans begin today) Cross the Auckland Harbour Bridge and travel north to the beautiful Bay of Islands. Arrive in Paihia and enjoy a guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty House where New Zealand’s most important document of state was signed. The rest of your day is at leisure.
DAY 3 Bay Of Islands/Auckland (149 miles)
Today, cruise to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. On your return journey stop at Otehei bay, where you will have a chance to walk, swim or just relax. Return to Auckland.
DAY 4 Auckland/ Waitomo/ Rotorua (226 miles)
(lunch and dinner included) Today, travel south to Rotorua via the rich pastoral province of Waikato. Travel on to the fascinating Waitomo Caves where you will enjoy lunch. Here experience a guided tour of the famous Glow Worm Grotto and an underground boat ride. Continue on via Lake Karapiro to Rotorua. In the evening enjoy a Maori Hangi (feast) and concert.
DAY 5 Rotorua/ Auckland (150 miles)
Experience the varied sights that Rotorua has to offer. Visit Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve. Learn about traditional Maori crafts at the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, before traveling to Rainbow Springs and Rainbow Farm Show. Return to Auckland, traveling over the rich and fertile Hauraki Plains.