Northern Explorer Northbound 2011

Itinerary

DAY 1 WELLINGTON TO TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK 

Standing as we are in NZ's capital, let's do a little exploring! First we'll take a city tour, checking out the sights. From here, you could continue on to Te Papa, the National Museum? There's the cable car up to the Botanic Gardens? Or perhaps you'd prefer to catch up with civilisation and your inbox? Either way, we head off later in the day for the volcanic world of Tongariro National Park, home to the majestic peaks Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu. It's a place of great cultural significance to the Maori people. We'll stay here for two nights. (D)

DAY 2 TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK 

Use this free day to explore the National Park – there’s loads of activities to keep you busy. Some of the finest walking trails in NZ are found here, including the stunning traverse of Mount Tongariro. If you’re not up for hikes, there is an absolute plethora of other options for you to try! (B)

DAY 3 TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK TO ROTORUA

Continuing north, we pass through Lake Taupo, an area brimming with geothermal energy that manifests itself as crater lakes, hot springs and volcanic mountains. Stopping at the thundering Huka Falls, there’s time to discover the imposing beauty of this region. Then in the afternoon we travel to Whakarewarewa Village and Thermal Reserve, to learn more about Maori culture. Study displays of traditional weapons and instruments. After dinner, perhaps take in a hot spa or swim – all thermally heated of course! (B)

DAY 4 ROTORUA (MARAE STAY) 

You have the morning to explore Rotorua, with plenty of options available – perhaps travel to Waitomo, or maybe visit Hobbiton to see part of the original Lord of the Rings movie set? Of course you can always visit the local mud baths or get a massage right here in town. Then tonight is one of the highlights of a Topdeck trip through NZ – a chance to stay in a traditional Maori Marae, learning a little of their culture as honoured guests. (B, D)

DAY 5 MARAE STAY TO COROMANDEL 

We’ll ease our way into the day, with a relaxed start to proceedings. Then we head to a place renowned for its beauty – Coromandel. It’s so pretty that New Zealanders often spend their holidays here! Sweeping beaches meet lush rainforest, coupled with gorgeous blue waters. Take time to explore the area, with optional walks along Long Bay Beach. If possible we’ll visit Hot Water Beach, where the bubbling waters naturally warm the sands. (B)

DAY 6 COROMANDEL TO BAY OF ISLANDS 

Start your day with the famous Topdeck Gourmet Breakfast! Then we pass through Auckland, stopping for lunch and picking up any new passengers that may have just arrived. We’ll check out Kauri Park and get a glimpse of the majestic Kauri trees in the beautiful surrounds. Finally it’s on to Paihia, home to 144 islands amongst the secluded bays. Note: we recommend upgrading to the optional “Rock the Boat” houseboat accommodation for a real party atmosphere. (B)

DAY 7 PAIHIA, BAY OF ISLANDS 

Today you have a free day to enjoy the Bay of Islands in your own time! Plenty of optional activities on offer: drive to Cape Reinga and board down the Te Paki sand dunes. Sail the inner bay on a catamaran and spot dolphins. Or maybe even hike through bushland to the Haruru falls. (B, D)

DAY 8 PAHIA (BAY OF ISLANDS) TO AUCKLAND 

Leaving the Bay of Islands in our wake, we travel through to the City of Sails, Auckland. Travelling around the scenic harbour, you'll soon see why it's rated one of the most livable cities in the world. It's here that our journey together comes to an end. (B)

This trip forms part of the Grand Kiwi Reverse trip, days 12 - 19.

*Please note that the itinerary for days 3 & 4 will reverse for some departures. If you have any questions, please contact us.