Northern Spotlight

Trip Code:64464

(AUD) Twin Share from $4,248pp

Days 8

Nights 7

Discover the best of New Zealand’s North Island on this immersive journey from vibrant Auckland to the capital city of Wellington. Explore the stunning Bay of Islands, uncover Māori heritage at the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds, marvel at Rotorua’s geothermal landscapes and cultural traditions, and travel through some of the country’s most spectacular scenery, including Lake Taupō and the Waitomo region.

28 Nov 2026 – 05 Dec 2026
from $4,248 pp twin share *
05 Dec 2026 – 12 Dec 2026
from $4,720 pp twin share *
09 Jan 2027 – 16 Jan 2027
from $4,378.50 pp twin share *
23 Jan 2027 – 30 Jan 2027
from $4,378.50 pp twin share *
06 Feb 2027 – 13 Feb 2027
from $4,865 pp twin share *
20 Feb 2027 – 27 Feb 2027
from $4,865 pp twin share *
27 Feb 2027 – 06 Mar 2027
from $4,378.50 pp twin share *
06 Mar 2027 – 13 Mar 2027
from $4,865 pp twin share *
20 Mar 2027 – 27 Mar 2027
from $4,865 pp twin share *
17 Apr 2027 – 24 Apr 2027
from $4,450 pp twin share *
04 Sep 2027 – 11 Sep 2027
from $4,320 pp twin share *
18 Sep 2027 – 25 Sep 2027
from $4,320 pp twin share *
25 Sep 2027 – 02 Oct 2027
from $4,320 pp twin share *
02 Oct 2027 – 09 Oct 2027
from $4,320 pp twin share *
09 Oct 2027 – 16 Oct 2027
from $4,320 pp twin share *
16 Oct 2027 – 23 Oct 2027
from $4,320 pp twin share *
23 Oct 2027 – 30 Oct 2027
from $4,320 pp twin share *
30 Oct 2027 – 06 Nov 2027
from $4,320 pp twin share *
06 Nov 2027 – 13 Nov 2027
from $4,320 pp twin share *
20 Nov 2027 – 27 Nov 2027
from $4,320 pp twin share *
27 Nov 2027 – 04 Dec 2027
from $4,320 pp twin share *
04 Dec 2027 – 11 Dec 2027
from $4,320 pp twin share *
11 Dec 2027 – 18 Dec 2027
from $4,320 pp twin share *
18 Dec 2027 – 25 Dec 2027
from $4,320 pp twin share *
01 Jan 2028 – 08 Jan 2028
from $4,450 pp twin share *
08 Jan 2028 – 15 Jan 2028
from $4,450 pp twin share *
15 Jan 2028 – 22 Jan 2028
from $4,450 pp twin share *
22 Jan 2028 – 29 Jan 2028
from $4,450 pp twin share *
29 Jan 2028 – 05 Feb 2028
from $4,450 pp twin share *
05 Feb 2028 – 12 Feb 2028
from $4,450 pp twin share *

* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Welcome to Auckland

Kia ora and welcome to Auckland, a city that’s easy to get swept up in. Arrive at your own pace and start exploring when you’re ready. You could wander the waterfront, watch the yachts glide by and grab a bite in the harbourside precincts. Or keep it simple and save your energy for what’s ahead. Tonight, meet your Travel Director who’ll give you the lowdown on the adventure to come. You’ll get the key details, a few handy local tips and a chance to meet your fellow travellers before you hit the road tomorrow.

Day 2 – Auckland – Bay of Islands

Wave goodbye to the ‘City of Sails’ and head north to the Bay of Islands, where turquoise water wraps around more than 140 islands. It’s a stunner, with a story to match. At Waitangi, you’ll step into one of New Zealand’s most significant historic sites, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840. You’ll be welcomed onto the grounds with a powerful cultural performance. Your Local Guide will bring the place to life, sharing the meaning behind the site, pointing out the world’s largest ceremonial war canoe and showing you a beautifully carved meeting house.

Day 3 – Bay of Islands Free Time

Today is yours to shape, and the Bay of Islands is the perfect playground. Fancy going big? Choose a full-day Choice Experience up to Cape Reinga/Te Rerenga Wairua, travelling via the dreamy sweep of Ninety Mile Beach. Prefer to stay on the water? Jump on a Choice Experience with a scenic cruise among the islands with lunch, plus a visit to the iconic Hole in the Rock. Or slow things down with another Choice Experience of a tour of Russell to hear stories of early settlement and seaside life. However you spend it, keep your camera close. This place delivers.

Day 4 – Bay of Islands – Auckland

On the way back south, you’ll get a taste of Northland’s easy charm. Stop in Whangārei, a coastal city that blends nature with a creative, forward-looking vibe. Stretch your legs, browse local spots and enjoy a little free time to explore at your own pace. Then settle in for the scenic drive back to Auckland, watching the landscapes shift from rural green to city buzz. Tonight, you’re back where it all began, with a chance to recharge and maybe tick off a few last sights, eats and waterfront views.

Day 5 – Auckland – Rotorua

After a look at Auckland’s highlights, point the coach towards Waitomo Caves for a truly magical ride. Glide through underground waterways as thousands of glowworms light up the darkness like a living sky. Then it’s on to Rotorua, where the earth bubbles, steams and pops. At Te Puia, explore a geothermal valley and dive into Māori culture on a guided experience. You’ll enjoy a stirring performance inside a carved meeting house, see the mighty Pōhutu Geyser and finish with a buffet dinner of locally sourced hāngī-inspired flavours.

Day 6 – Rotorua Free Time

Rotorua is packed with options, and today you can choose your own pace. Want pure relaxation? Slip into holiday mode at Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa and soak it all in. Chasing movie magic? Join a Choice Experience to Hobbiton and wander the Shire sets from The Lord of the Rings films. Even if you’re not a superfan, the rolling countryside is worth the trip. Your Travel Director will have plenty of tips, from scenic walks to places to eat. Whether you go full-on or keep it chilled, you’ll finish the day feeling refreshed.

Day 7 – Rotorua – Wellington

You’ll hear Huka Falls before you see it. Every second, an astonishing 220,000 litres of water roar through the narrow gorge and plunge 11 m (36 ft) down. Next, soak up the wide-open views of Lake Taupō, a vivid sweep of blue that looks almost unreal. Then follow the road south along the Kapiti Coast to Wellington, New Zealand’s cool little capital. This city loves good food, great coffee and a night out, so you’ll want local intel. Luckily, your Travel Director has the tips, from hidden bars to must-try spots for dinner.

Day 8 – Farewell from Wellington

Wellington is known for its uber-cool cafes, so grab a coffee before you head out on your city sights tour. After the tour, bid farewell to your NZ crew. You may wish to depart directly, or if you have time, linger in town, discovering Māori culture at Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand (entrance fee applies).

Highlights

Expert Travel Director and professional Driver travelling with you throughout
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most regions
Extensive variety of Choice Experiences and city orientation tours included

Inclusions

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most regions.
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver.
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.
Extensive variety of Choice Experiences.
City orientation tours.

FAQs

Copthorne Hotel and Resort
Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre
Ibis
James Cook Grand Chancellor

How long is this journey?

This itinerary runs for 8 days and 7 nights.

When can I travel?

Departures are currently scheduled between 28 Nov 2026 and 25 Mar 2028, subject to live availability.

Are there different departure options?

Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.

Are discounts available?

Seasonal or loyalty discounts may be available on selected departures at the time of enquiry.

What is generally included?

Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.

Provided by: Costsaver

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