Northern Spotlight
On specific dates. Please ask for details.
ESCORTED tour
- Breakfast. Dinner is also included on days 4 & 7.
- 3-4* hotels throughout.
- The price shown for this escorted tour includes international flights, accommodation, sightseeing as outlined, national park entrance fees and services of a Travel Director and Driver Guide. AAT Kings Best Buy tours include comfortable accommodation with easy access to city centres, many meals plus optional experiences to add to your holiday.
- The itinerary is based on departures between Sep 25-May 26 and may vary for other dates.
- This holiday is 100% financially protected. ATOL protected 2713
Our suggested itinerary is a starting point
We're specialists in tailor-made holidays, where we can adapt each itinerary to suit your requirements
Days 1-2 Auckland
Day 3 Auckland
On arrival, make your own way to your hotel. Settle in and then perhaps pick a waterfront precinct to while away some time over a glass of Marlborough wine. This evening, get acquainted with your fellow travellers.
Days 4-5 Bay of Islands
Journey north to the Bay of Islands and discover 140 droplets of land ringed by turquoise sea at the top of the country. It's undeniably beautiful, but it also holds a special historical significance: this is where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840, between the British and Māori chiefs. Your guide, likely a descendant of one of the original signatories, will explain the significance of the site. If there's a travel destination that inspires wanderlust, the Bay of Islands is it and today, you can do just that.
At your leisure, venture up to Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua, the very top of New Zealand, via idyllic Ninety Mile Beach. Or, glide around on an historic tall ship, cruise to the famous Hole in the Rock or join a tour of Russell and learn more about the settling of the Bay of Islands. The choice is yours (all at extra expense).
Day 6 Auckland
Journey toward the top of the country to visit Whangarei – NZ's northernmost city, and a place where waterfalls meet beaches and galleries meet museums. It's like the country in a tantalising snapshot – a union of nature and forward-thinking culture. Explore at your leisure before sinking back into your seat for the mesmerising drive back to Auckland.
Days 7-8 Rotorua
After a city sights tour head to the Waikato River and Waitomo Caves. This place is radiant – quite literally. While cruising cavernous waterways, the route is cast in a magical light by thousands of glowworms. It's a landscape almost as otherworldly as Rotorua, where mud pops and jettisons from bubbling geysers, and steam rushes skywards from cracks in the Earth. This evening, explore Te Puia's geothermal valley. Learn about Māori history and culture, and enjoy a dinner of hangi-inspired cuisine.
It ends on a high at the Pohutu Geyser, where, you'll view one of New Zealand's geothermal wonderlands. Explore at your own pace today. Perhaps opt for some blissing out at Wai Araki Hot Springs & Spa or, Hobbit fans will want to take the opportunity to tour the sights at Hobbiton (both at extra expense).
Day 9 Wellington
You'll hear Huka Falls well before you see it – at this natural wonder, a staggering 48,000 gallons of water thunder over the soaring waterfall every second. The road ahead unfolds in a broad panorama of Lake Taupo, with its vivid blue waters. Traverse the Kapiti Coast to New Zealand's cool little capital, Wellington, where there are so many restaurants and bars to choose from.
Day 10 Departure
If time allows, discover Māori culture at Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand (at extra expense). Later, bid farewell to new friends as your tour concludes.
Need to know
Departures
On specific dates. Please ask for details.
Meals
Breakfast. Dinner is also included on days 4 & 7.
Accommodation
3-4* hotels throughout.
Tour price
The price shown for this escorted tour includes international flights, accommodation, sightseeing as outlined, national park entrance fees and services of a Travel Director and Driver Guide. AAT Kings Best Buy tours include comfortable accommodation with easy access to city centres, many meals plus optional experiences to add to your holiday.
Notes
The itinerary is based on departures between Sep 25-May 26 and may vary for other dates.
