Bay of Islands - Island paradise of golden, sandy beaches & charming towns

Itinerary

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DAY ONE                                        MT, L, D  

As we set out for the winterless north, we'll have a morning tea stop along the way and take the time to stretch our legs before continuing our journey through Auckland. We'll head north across the bridge to enjoy a sumptuous lunch at The Glass House Restaurant which is the home of Brick Bay Wines and gateway to the Brick Bay Sculpture Trail. Today we'll be dining only as we push forward continuing onwards and upwards in a northerly direction, we'll arrive in our final destination Whangarei for our evening. This afternoon we will visit the fabulous Hundertwasser Art Centre this is an amazing venue to visit which celebrates his art all encased in one of his architectural creations which doesn't lead to any form of normality of straight lines but curves and colour. After our visual sensory cup has been filled, we'll head to our accommodation for the evening The Distinction Hotel in Whangarei, home for tonight. We'll enjoy our dinner on-site at the hotel.

DAY TWO                                       B, MT, L, D 

After breakfast, we continue our journey north; our holiday would not be complete without pausing to take in the quirky iconic Hundertwasser Kawakawa toilets. From here, we head to the Butlers Museum and Gardens for Morning Tea.  Captain William Butler was a retired whaling ship captain who became a successful merchant in northern New Zealand. In 1838 Butler purchased land that formed the nucleus of what is today, Butler Point. Butlers Point Whaling Museum & Garden in Hihi, is about stepping back in time to learn more about New Zealand’s once-lucrative whaling industry. We’ll have the opportunity to view the beautiful gardens, historic homestead, and the vast collection of Whaling memorabilia which will make for a fascinating morning.  Then we head on for some deserved Fish and Chips from the famous Mangonui Fish and Chip Shop. Eat locally caught fish landed at Mangonui Wharf while the ocean waves roll under your feet.  From here, we will take a tiki tour back down to the Historical Kerikeri Mission Station and take the time to view this historic location, home to the remarkable 1832-built Stone Store. Stopping here, we will have time to take the tour, learning about the store’s history and surrounding mission station. 

DAY THREE                                    B, L, D 

This morning, we set off to explore the stunning golden beaches and captivating coastline of Northland, making our way to the iconic Cape Reinga. While we won’t be stopping for a formal morning tea, feel free to bring a drink bottle and some snacks. Our journey will be enhanced by joining a specialised tour company renowned for its intimate local knowledge, ensuring a day filled with discovery and memorable experiences. The adventure includes a visit to the Ancient Kauri Kingdom in Awanui, a scenic drive along the renowned 90 Mile Beach, and a thrilling stop at Te Paki Stream, where you can marvel at or even climb the giant sand dunes. A delicious lunch is included to complete this journey through Northland’s treasures. At Cape Reinga, witness the meeting of the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean in a spectacular display of nature's power. We’ll also explore the historic Gumdiggers Park. After our day out, we’ll be dropped back at our accommodation to enjoy an evening meal onsite at the hotel.

DAY FOUR                                     B, D 

Time for a scenic exploration of the Bay of Islands! This morning, we’ll board the Fullers Catamaran, for an unforgettable cruise along the stunning coastline. Our journey will take us past beautiful islands and the end of the Cape Brett Peninsula, culminating in a visit to the world-famous Hole in the Rock. If weather conditions permit, we may even sail through this iconic natural wonder. After our memorable cruise, enjoy some free time in Paihia, where you can relax and savour lunch at one of the charming local cafés. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds for a guided tour. Immerse yourself in New Zealand's rich heritage as we explore the grounds and the engaging exhibits at the museum, gaining insight into the nation’s founding document. This evening, we’ll gather for a delicious dinner in a picturesque setting, sharing stories from our day of adventure and discovery.

DAY FIVE                                        B, L, D 

Let's begin our day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before catching the ferry from Paihia to Russell. We will be split into two groups for this morning's activities, with one group visiting Pompallier Mission and Printery, and the other embarking on a mini tour of Russell. After this, we'll enjoy a delicious lunch at the Duke of Marlborough in Russell which boasts stunning waterfront views that create the perfect atmosphere for a relaxing and enjoyable lunch. We will have the opportunity to soak in the historic charm of the building and the picturesque surroundings of Russell's waterfront. Our afternoon will consist of the groups swapping the morning activities. After this, we will have free time to explore the local shops or museums in Russell or catch the ferry back in your own time to relax at the Kingsgate Hotel. This evening, everyone will gather for dinner at the Kingsgate Hotel, where we will enjoy our evening together.

DAY SIX                                           B, MT, L, D 

After breakfast, we say farewell to Paihia our journey then commences with a scenic drive to Kerikeri to visit the gorgeous Silkwood Lodge a luxury boutique venue with subtropical gardens in Kerikeri. This is a unique and private venue perfect for boutique weddings, small gatherings, or photoshoots. We'll enjoy a catered morning tea and informative talk about the venue, both delightful and engaging. Next, we head to Marsden Winery, renowned for its exquisite cuisine and stunning vineyard views. The picturesque surroundings provide a feast for the eyes and a serene ambiance for our palates to indulge in. We end our day with a picturesque ferry ride across the Hokianga Harbour, arriving at the charming Sands Hotel. Here, we are treated to dinner at the on-site restaurant, complete with breathtaking scenery.

DAY SEVEN                                    B, L, D 

Tane Mahutu has stood as a majestic sentinel in the Waipoua Forest for over 1,250 years. Occupying a place in the record books as New Zealand’s largest known living kauri tree, we’ll be stopping this morning to marvel at its towering canopy and massive circumference before moving on to have morning tea at the Gumdigger’s Café in Matakohe. The adjacent kauri timber-lined museum presents a fascinating insight into the area’s incredible pioneering industry. Unique to this part of the world and displaying the many shapes, sizes and colours of kauri’s beautiful golden resin, stopping in here is a must. From here, we head to the historic Warkworth Hotel for a traditional Sunday roast lunch. Sculptureum Gallery in Matakana is our next stop, with three sculpture-filled gardens, six art galleries, and a vineyard, there is something for everyone. We’ll be carrying the beauty of this cherished region of New Zealand in our hearts and minds, not to mention our cameras. We are overnighting at Northridge Country Lodge in Wainui on the North Shore of Auckland.  After settling into our accommodation, we'll enjoy dinner at the onsite restaurant for our final night together.

DAY EIGHT                                     B 

After breakfast, we start our journey home via Hamilton Gardens.  We will enjoy a tour of the Mansfield and Surrealist Gardens.  The Mansfield Garden represents the early 20th century New Zealand garden described in Katherine Mansfield’s short story ‘The Garden Party’. The Surrealist Gardens are where we will step into a strange world where mysterious dreams have come to life!  There is time for some lunch before we make our way home to Tauranga.