New Zealand North, Beaches & Geysers [ST-NZ28] - About New Zealand
 
 
8 Days: New Zealand North, Beaches & Geysers [ST-NZ28]
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Highlights & Inclusions
  • Accommodation - Auckland (1 Night), Coromandel (2), Rotorua (2), Taupo (1), Auckland (1)
  • US Domestic Flights not included per your request
  • International Flights - Los Angeles to Auckland (Return)
  • Car Hires - 7 Day Rental Car, Pick up and Drop off in Auckland
  • Rental Car Hires are base rate only and do not include taxes, insurance, fuel levies, drop off fees, or environmental fees.
  • Day Tours Included - Rotorua: Te Po Indigenous Evening Experience
  • All other Day Tours listed are Optional (Not Included)
  • F.I.T. (Free & Independent Travel, i.e. this is not an Organized Group Tour)
  • All Taxes and Fuel Levies (Except where noted)
  • Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.
Itinerary Details
(Day 1) - International Flight, Los Angeles to Auckland

Shortly after departing Los Angeles you will be served dinner and you will be given breakfast before landing in Auckland.

Relax, watch some movies, and try to get some sleep!

Please confirm with the airline at check-in that they have all your Frequent Flyer information on record (if applicable).

(Days 2 to 9) - 7 Day Car Rental, Pick up and Drop off in Auckland Airport

Discover New Zealand as you travel by rental car for seven days.

Take the opportunity to explore parts of New Zealand at your own pace by car. Please bring a valid American driver’s license with you and be aware that in New Zealand people drive on the left hand side of the road.

*Upgrade available to include GPS navigation system (additional cost).

Base rate only paid by About Australia. Insurance, Premium Location Surcharge, Fuel and Fees to driver’s credit card.

(Days 2 to 3) - 1 Night Accommodation in Auckland

Travel to your accommodation in Auckland, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.

Auckland is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, regularly voted one of the best lifestyle cities in the world– renowned as that ‘City Of Sails.’ Dramatic landscapes and seascapes provide a diverse playground in which a compelling range of attractions are available. Visitors come to enjoy an array of exciting entertainment, leisure, culture and dining possibilities in New Zealand’s largest city.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Auckland Harbour Cruise

Visit a true thing of beauty and cruise the sparkling waters of Waitemata Harbour!



Head out on this one and a half hour tour to see the Devonport Naval Base, travel past the township and North Head, then cruise towards the iconic Rangitoto Island as you pass the historic Bean Rock lighthouse. You’ll pass under the Harbour Bridge twice and then off to Westhaven Marina to catch a glance at the viaduct harbour bustling with super yachts!



Daily at 10:45am & 1:45pm. Tours do not operate on Christmas day.

Insider's Tip: Auckland City Explorer Bus

Take a unique, fun and informative tour of Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city on the Hop on Hop Off Auckland City Explorer Bus!

Nestled between two harbours, this beautiful and vibrant city has a diverse mix of culture and landscapes. Something for everyone – attractions and activities, shopping and eateries, events and adventure – you can explore it all this 24 hour Hop on Hop off bus pass.

Unique Vehicles with Fantastic Views: Discover the true magic of city sightseeing onboard our unique, classic and new, double decker buses. With a mix of open and closed top buses, you will ride in comfort and style, enjoying spectacular views from the top deck.

Entertaining ‘Live’ Commentary: Our friendly local guides provide a ‘live’ fun and informative commentary throughout your journey. Multi-lingual commentaries are also available on the central tour.

Hop-on Hop-off and Visit Auckland’s Best Attractions: As you circumnavigate the city, visiting historic landmarks and all the ‘must see’ attractions, you can hop on and off at your leisure to ensure you don’t miss a thing.

Devonport Ferry Trip Visit this historic suburb and browse boutiques for unique gifts, indulge at a restaurant or cafe, go to the beach or climb North Head for harbour views. Tickets are valid for sailings between 9:00am-4:30pm Monday to Friday, and all weekend sailings.

Includes
-Red and Blue Tour Routes
-Devonport Ferry

(Day 3) - Self Drive from Auckland to Coromandel
(Days 3 to 5) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Coromandel

Travel to your accommodation in Coromandel, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Your Accommodation is a secluded hideaway located at Pauanui Beach, a two hour drive from Auckland, Tauranga and Hamilton. Featuring 42 spacious private chalets, your accommodation is hidden away on Mount Pauanui amid 25 acres of native bushland. Miha Restaurant offers superb dining, stunning views and an intimate ambiance, while other resort facilities include a pool, sauna, gym, tennis, a day spa, and conference space, with world class golf, fishing and diving located nearby.
Photo Credit: Bob McCree; Tourism New Zealand

(Day 4) - Free Day to Explore Coromandel

Free time to rest, relax or explore.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Scenic & Sounds Experience - Half Day

Enjoy the spectacular volcanic scenery of Cathedral Cove with its abundant marine life and crystal clear turquoise coloured water. There’s a good chance to see Blue Penguins and possibly Dolphins/Orcas.

See Shakespeare’s Cliff, Lonely bay, Cooks Blowhole, Cathedral Cove & The Hole in the Rock. View fish in the Marine reserve an Gemstone Bay.

Continuing on, you will see more fantastic coastline scenery as we go down to the Orua Sea Cave where we go inside the cave and you get to hear the amazing acoustics when we play music or you can make your own on a Conch Shell or Didgeridoo before stopping for a short swim or snorkel if desired.

All snorkeling gear supplied free.

WHAT TO BRING?
-warm top, hat
-water
-sun block & sun glasses
-and a sense of adventure!

WE PROVIDE
-raincoats and
-friendly smiles
-snorkelling gear
-the best of the BAY on the DAY!

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Sea Kayaking

These trips explore spectacular volcanic coastline and are designed for all levels and abilities. You will use modern kayaking equipment and our qualified guides will give you full instruction and assistance.

The Big Day in the Bay:

For the more adventurous folks, this tour is designed for an unforgettable full day.

The Big Day in the Bay explores the grand volcanic coast seen on the Cathedral Cove Classic and Remote Coast tours.

The modern sea kayaks allow you to venture into sea caves and blowholes that others simply can not get to. When conditions allow, we land at the Department of Conservation’s Mahurangi Island. After just a short walk you’ll be soaking up some of the most breathtaking views in the Mercury Bay.

This coastline was made for sea kayaking – join us for the adventure o fa lifetime.

-Check in: 8.45am daily
-Duration: approx 6 hours (minimum numbers may apply)

-Bring your own lunch, we provide morning and afternoon tea.

We provide:

-Professional qualified guides
-quality kayaking & safety equipment
-light refreshments
-dry bags for your cameras and big friendly smiles!

You will need:
-Shorts and tee shirt, a warm top
-water bottle
-camera and a sense of adventure!

(Day 5) - Self Drive from Coromandel to Rotorua
(Days 5 to 7) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Rotorua

Travel to your accommodation in Rotorua, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Located on the shores of Lake Rotorua your accommodation is only a short walk to the city centre, convention centre, cafes and restaurants. Here in the heartland of New Zealand’s Maori culture you’ll experience an enveloping warmth, proud spirit, deep sense of history and a quick humour. Picturesque cobbled and lantern lined streetways and striking Tudor architecture celebrates New Zealand’s significant colonial history. Travel the region by mountain bike or participate in local bush walks.

Upgrade Available (extra cost):
Lake View Room

Optional Morning Tour (Not Included) - Rotorua Morning Sights Tour

Enjoy a morning sightseeing tour around three of Rotorua’s iconic visitor attractions.

Experience Te Puia, a place of Maori culture and a thermal wonderland of impressive geysers and boiling mud pools. Explore Rainbow Springs Nature Park, which showcases native flora and fauna as well as the New Zealand Kiwi. Then see NZ’s agricultural industry in action with a sheep shearing display and sheep dog trials at the Agrodome.

Highlights: Te Puia Thermal Reserve; Maori Arts and Crafts Institute; Rainbow Springs Nature Park; Agrodome Sheep Show

Photo Credit: Te Puia

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Hobbiton Shire Tour - Half Day

Enjoy a tour of beautiful scenery as you venture to Hobbiton, the location where Lord of the Rings was filmed.

Your tour starts with a scenic drive from Rotorua across the Kaimai Ranges to The Shires Rest. It then continues with a drive through the picturesque 1,250 acre sheep farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges. Your guide will escort you through the twelve acre site recounting fascinating details of how Hobbiton Movie set was created.

The Hobbit holes, Green Dragon Inn, the Mill and other structures created for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films can be viewed and you will see how this beautiful piece of Waikato farmland was transformed into The Shire from Middle-Earth.

Upon completion of your tour you will return to Rotorua.

Tour duration from Rotorua approx. 4 1/2 hours

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Riverjet Thermal Safari - Half Day

The only jetboat that incorporates a fantastic geothermal wonderland and a thrilling jet boating experience.

This awesome adventure brings you up close to a slice of New Zealand scenery. The stunning scenery of the mighty Waikato River makes you feel like time stood still as you gently cruise through the spectacular Tutukau Gorge where the canyon walls rise dramatically up to 50 metres above the water.

The stunning native bush and abundant wildlife you’ll encounter will leave you with a lasting impression. During several stops along the way the drivers explain about the rich history of the area and its unique wildlife.

Entry to Orakei Korako, also known as the Hidden Valley, is part of this awesome adventure.The serene beauty formed from and around all this geothermal commotion will leave you astounded.

On the way back the excitement begins! You’ll experience legendary 360-degree spins. The rides are tailored to suit the needs and adventure feel of all passengers, making sure it is a safe and enjoyable experience.

Insider's Tip: Adventure in Rotorua

Experience a memorable adventure in Rotorua!

If you consider yourself to be an adventure buff then consider a day filled with one of these exciting Rotorua attractions! Take a “Must see, must do!” 2 1/2 to 3 hour ride on a New Zealand Riverjet and experience the fantastic geothermal wonderland on a thrilling jet boat! If a need for speed is present then opt to luge down one of three racing tracks or experience the Sky Swing at the Skyline Skyrides Complex. Whether a beginner or an extreme adrenalin seeker, have yourself a once in a lifetime experience with white water rafting! With these activities you are sure to make your time in Rotorua a memorable one!

Insider's Tip: Relax in Rotorua

Embrace nature’s sanctuary and slip into five mineral hot pools overlooking Lake Rotorua.

Take time to embrace this magical oasis of geothermal pools. If looking for some therapeutic remedies, a cold plunge pool has been added for those wanting hot/cold hydrotherapy. The extremes of hot and cold water cause muscle to expand and contract offering gently detoxification as toxins are squeezed from the muscles.

Or, if looking to destress the mind and body, lounge in one of the 10 geothermally heated recliners. With 96.8-106 degree mineral waters, amazing views of the lake and Sulphur Bay Wild Reserve, this is sure to be an experience to remember.

Operates
Daily
Open 9:00am-11:00pm

Includes
– Access to 5 geothermal pools and cold pool
– Relaxation lounge
– 10 geothermal recliners
– Drinking fountains, hairdryers, and toiletries

Need to Know
– Cotton shirts and pants including underwear are not permitted to be worn in the pools at any time
– Children under 8 years of age must be actively supervised by a caregiver aged 16 or over
– It is recommended that you do not to stay in hot water for more than fifteen minutes. Alternate to cooler pools and maintain a regular intake of fluids

Upgrades
– Massages and other spa treatments
– Locker, towel, and swimsuit rentals
– Adult only pools

(Day 6) - Evening Event, Te Po Indigenous Evening Experience

Te Po is an authentic, one-of-a-kind evening event. It is a feast of storytelling, entertainment and Maori cuisine like no other you’ll ever experience.

The Te Po  Indigenous Experience begins with a mouth-watering buffet at the world famous Pataka Kai Restaurant, Bar and Cafe. With locally sourced cuisine and an authentic Maori twist in each dish, it is guaranteed to be a favorite with your group.

Following this, you will be led to view an exhilarating cultural performance which takes place in the beautifully carved meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua. It will include a Pohiri (Traditional Maori Welcome), Waiata (Song), Moteatea (traditional chant), Poi and Haka.

Afterwards, enter the geothermal valley on a waka (people moving vehicle) and discover one of New Zealand’s most magnificent geothermal wonderlands – featuring dramatic geysers, bubbling mud, and beautiful native bush. For generations Te Puia has welcomed manuhiri (visitors) from all over the world to explore the magic hidden within Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley. During this experience, you will be viewing the valley afterhours and resting with a hot chocolate upon naturally heated rock seating beneath the powerful Pohutu Geyser.

Operates:
Daily 5:30pm-8:30pm

Includes:
– Return transfers from your Rotorua CBD accommodation
– Buffet dinner
– Maori cultural performance
– Hot chocolate
– Guided tour of the geothermal valley

Need to know:
Please advise of dietary requirements.

(Day 7) - Self Drive from Rotorua to Lake Taupo

Drive time: approximately 1 hour.

Depart Rotorua for Taupo.

The road to Taupo will keep you entertained with its unusual, volcanic geography. Stop on the drive to Taupo and walk over the Huka Falls lookout bridge. Take a jet boat ride to experience the scenery of the mighty Waikato River and the stunning Tutukau Gorge.
You’ll also drive through large tracts of plantation pine forest.The resort town of Taupo sits on the edge of New Zealand’s largest lake, which is well stocked with sizeable trout.

(Days 7 to 8) - 1 Night Accommodation in Lake Taupo

Travel to your accommodation in Lake Taupo, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.

This Hotel and Resort in Taupo is situated right on the foreshore of the world-famous Lake Taupo, renowned for it’s scenery and fabulous fishing. The hotel has unsurpassed views of the lake and the majestic mountains of the Central Plateau.
Just minutes away from the township of Taupo and the many local attractions and activities the region has to offer.

This Hotel and Resort offers 51 rooms of luxurious lakefront accommodation. The hotel facilities include a tennis court, gymnasium, heated swimming pool, sauna and the unique ‘grotto’ plunge pool.

The hotel boasts two award-winning restaurants; Edgewater and Beach Brasserie, both offering fantastic lake views and superb dining. Relax at the lakefront bar and watch the magic sunsets Taupo so often displays.

The Resort also has three conference venues, providing the perfect setting for up to 250 people.

Insiders Tip: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

Tongariro Alpine Hot Bus is the leading Tongariro Alpine Crossing transport operator from Taupo and Turangi.

Locally owned and operated, Alpine Hot Bus runs daily return shuttles from Taupo to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing as well as shuttle bus service incorporating Whakapapa, National Park, Chateau Tongariro, Turangi and Ohakune. Alpine Hot Bus will collect you from your accommodation and you will enjoy a comfortable ride on luxury shuttle buses.

For more information please visit: https://www.alpinehotbus.co.nz/taupo-shuttle.html

Insiders Tip: Hot Springs in Taupo

At Taupo DeBretts you will enjoy an authentic New Zealand Experience. For over 120 years Taupo DeBretts has been an iconic spot for weary travellers to enjoy thermal bathing and Taupo accommodation.

SOAK in the warm, restoring mineral waters of the historic Taupo Hot Springs. A variety of natural pools, fresh water pools and private pools at a variety of temperatures awaits you. The children will delight in our Warm Water Playground and Dragon Hydro-slide. After a relaxing soak, SOOTHE your body and soul with a therapeutic treatment in our day spa – Living Waters Spa.

For more information please visit: https://www.taupodebretts.co.nz/

Insiders Tip: Fun & Free Activities in Taupo

Fun, Free, Family Activities in Taupo!

Aratiatia Rapids – See a raging torrent of water surge through the Aratiatia Rapids, when hydro gates are opened to bring this natural attraction to life. Spills occur 10am, 12noon, 2pm and 4pm in summer and 10am, 12noon and 2pm in winter. Signposted off SH5 approximately 10km north of Lake Taupo. For best viewing, arrive 15 minutes early and walk the short track to one of two lookout points.

Botanical Reserve – An 85 acre reserve containing alpine and native plants, azaleas and rhododendrons. Gates are open daily until dusk. Situated at the top of Shepherd Road, Lake Taupo.

Cycling – Great cycling trails for all levels. You could also pick up a cycling map from either the Taupo or Turangi i-SITE Visitor Centre.

Huka Honey Hive – See bees in glass hives, sample honey products and watch educational videos. Honey products for sale. Open daily 9am-5pm. Situated off SH1 north in Wairakei Tourist Park, Lake Taupo.

Huka Falls – The major waterfall on the Waikato River. NZ’s most visited natural attraction. Famous for the volume of water (approximately 220 liters per second) that hurtles through its narrow chasm. Situated off SH1 north.

Rose Gardens – Over 500 rose bushes grow here. The gardens are adjacent to the Museum in Story Place, Lake Taup?.

Scented Gardens – Raised garden filled with scented shrubs and herbs for the enjoyment of the visually impaired. Tongariro North Domain, Lake Taup?.

Spa Road Walk – Walk alongside the glorious Waikato River, NZ’s longest river. Enjoy the fresh air and surrounding bush. Stop off at Huka Falls or Aratiatia Rapids.

Tokaanu Historic Wharf – Dates from the early 1800s and is one of the oldest structures of its kind in NZ. It is now undergoing restoration and currently you can walk two thirds of its length. A popular picnic and fishing spot.

Tokaanu Thermal Walk – Located adjacent to the Tokaanu Thermal Pools. Free thermal bush walk, 15-20 minutes of bubbling mud and silica springs (wheelchair accessible).

Tongariro River Loop Walk – One hour walk alongside the world famous Tongariro River. Watch people fly fish and enjoy the views of the Kaimanawa Ranges.

Trout Fishing Turangi and Lake Taupo – Take a picnic and watch anglers fly fish for trout at the Waitahanui Stream. Situated on SH1 south at Waitahanui. Licence required.
Walking, Hiking and Tramping – The Taupo and Turangi areas offer a variety of walking opportunities.

For more information please visit: https://www.greatlaketaupo.com/new-zealand/free_activities/

(Day 8) - Self Drive from Lake Taupo to Auckland
(Days 8 to 9) - 1 Night Accommodation in Auckland

Travel to your accommodation in Auckland, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.

Auckland is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, regularly voted one of the best lifestyle cities in the world– renowned as that ‘City Of Sails.’ Dramatic landscapes and seascapes provide a diverse playground in which a compelling range of attractions are available. Visitors come to enjoy an array of exciting entertainment, leisure, culture and dining possibilities in New Zealand’s largest city.

(Day 9) - International Flight, Auckland to Los Angeles

Today depart Auckland and fly to the USA. Enjoy an in-flight dinner and movie with arrival in the USA. Note: you will be traveling back across the International Date Line. Gain that day back you lost on the way over, you actually arrive in the USA on the same day you leave Auckland.

Note: Flight may include a stop over in Australia.

  • a) All prices are USD$/person (including all Taxes). Subject to availability. Other Conditions Apply (see Terms and Conditions).
  • b) Land Content Only represents the pricing for the full itinerary as detailed, except the International Flights from the USA (and return) are NOT included.
  • c) An Infant (Lapchild) must be less than 2 years old on the date of departure. Infant must travel with at least one adult. An infant with a seat pays the price of a Child.
  • d) A Child must be aged between 2-11 years on the date of departure. Child must travel with at least one adult.