What's
included:
Return transport Auckland to Auckland - nights accommodation - Fascinating
Matakohe Pioneer and Kauri Museum -Waipoua Kauri Forest - Tane Mahuta 'God of the Forest'
- Opononi and Hokianga Harbour - Impressive Haruru Falls - Cape Reinga day excursion
- Exhilirating 'Sand Duning' - Picturesque 90 Mile beach
Day 1: Auckland - Paihia
This morning we will pick you up from your arranged location before heading north to
Paihia. First we cross the harbour bridge and travel north, passing through the scenic
towns of Orewa and Warkworth before reaching Northland. The first stop of the day is
at the fascinating Matakohe Kauri and Pioneer museum – where you will discover the
role that the mighty trees have played in the lives of the early European arrivals to New
Zealand. After passing through Dargaville ‘the Kumara Capital of New
Zealand’, the road enters the impressive Waipoua Kauri Forest. The coach will
make a stop, allowing you to visit Tane Mahuta, God of the Forest – New
Zealand’s largest Kauri tree – a spectacular view. A small distance
further is Opononi, and Omapere, two tiny settlements on the edge of the stunning Hokianga
Harbour. The coach will then travel coast to coast, reaching Paihia, the largest
town in the Bay of Islands in late afternoon.
Day 2: Cape Reinga
Travel north of Paihia through rolling farmland and land sacred to the local Maori.
Visit the top of New Zealand, Cape Reinga, where on clear days you can see the clash of
the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean as they meet. This will be one of the best
panoramic views that you can see while in New Zealand. Travel along Te Paki Stream
and 90-Mile Beach and try sand boarding down some giant sand dunes – great fun!
On the way back pass by the beautiful fishing town of Mangonui, arriving in Paihia in the
early evening.
Day 3: Paihia - Auckland
Spend the morning at your leisure –perhaps taking to the water and the Hole in the
Rock cruise or the Mack Attack fast boat, or visiting historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds.
Another great option is to take the short ferry side to Russell, the site of New
Zealand’s first capital. Return to Auckland, arriving in the late afternoon.
