INTER-ISLAND ESCAPE

Day 1. Arrive Auckland
On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
Stay: Auckland, Kingsgate Parnell.

Day 2. Auckland, Bay of Islands
Cross the Auckland Harbour Bridge and visit the Matakohe Pioneer Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of Kauri gum. Continue to the majestic Waipoua Kauri Forest Reserve where we view the giant Kauri tree ’Tane Mahuta’ (Lord of the Forest). Travel across country to the Bay of Islands National Maritime Park. On arrival, take a guided visit of the historic Waitangi Reserve where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840. Enjoy a tour of the Treaty Grounds, Maori Meeting House and carved War Canoe.
Two Night Stay: Paihia, Bay of Islands Hotel.
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Day 3. Bay of Islands
Enjoy a day at leisure in the Bay of Islands. Today is at leisure for you to explore the array of activities available (own expense).

Day 4. Bay of Islands, Auckland
Explore New Zealand’s finest National Maritime Park on a catamaran cruise to Cape Brett and the famous ‘Hole in the Rock’. Sail through game fishing waters to view the Cape Brett lighthouse then make passage through the ‘Hole’ (sea conditions permitting). Meander through the inner islands, visit a secluded bay with time for relaxation. Return this afternoon to Auckland.
Stay: Auckland, Kingsgate Parnell.
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Day 5. Auckland, Waitomo, Rotorua, Theme Dinner
Enjoy a brief city sights tour before journeying to the crest of Mt Eden, one of Auckland’s extinct volcanoes, to enjoy spectacular panoramic views. We travel south to Waitomo Caves and experience a guided tour of the underground limestone caverns. Join a silent boat ride and glide through a mystical grotto lit by thousands of tiny glow-worms. This afternoon arrive in Rotorua. Tonight immerse yourself in culture as you enjoy a Maori Hangi (feast) and cultural performance.
Two Night Stay: Rotorua, Kingsgate Rotorua.
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Day 6. Rotorua
Today experience the attractions of Rotorua. We visit Te Puia Thermal Reserve, New Zealand’s major geyser field. Enjoy a guided tour through the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute. Continue to the Agrodome to enjoy an entertaining sheep and farm show. The remainder of today is at your leisure in Rotorua.
Country Homestay option available tonight.
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Day 7 Rotorua, Taupo, Napier
Depart Rotorua this morning and travel via Wairakei Steam Valley and the Huka Falls on the way to Lake Taupo. Continue to Napier where we visit Church Road Winery. This afternoon enjoy a guided walk to explore this Art Deco city.
Stay: Napier, Tennyson Motor Inn.
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Day 8. Napier, Wellington
Today depart Napier and travel across to the West Coast of the North Island. We follow the Kapiti Coast before arriving in Wellington to enjoy a city tour.
Stay: Wellington, Bay Plaza or West Plaza Hotel.
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Day 9. Wellington, Picton
This morning a visit to Te Papa – the Museum of New Zealand. Displayed is the past, present and future of New Zealand. Join our cruise across Cook Strait to the South Island, renowned as one of the most beautiful crossings in the world. Sail through Wellington Harbour, through Marlborough Sounds to Picton. .
Stay: Picton, Beachcomber Hotel
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Day 10. Picton, Christchurch
Travel through the Marlborough region and arrive in Kaikoura. Journey between the Pacific Ocean and rugged Kaikoura Ranges to Christchurch. On arrival we enjoy a city sightseeing tour. The remainder of today is at your leisure.
Stay: Christchurch, Holiday Inn on Avon.
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Day 11. Christchurch
Your tour concludes this morning after breakfast, a departure transfer to the airport is included.
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