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12 Day – Family Sightseeing Tour – North Island (Auckland return, via Rotorua/Taupo, Farm-stay, Bay of Islands)This is the perfect trip for a family with children under the age of 12 years. Visit the highlights and stay in the most beautiful parts of the North Island. Experience some remote country locations and to know our local people. This itinerary will give you the right balance between taking part in some soft adventures with the whole family and relaxing time to for yourself. Dine in our best known restaurants and savour local produce in stunning surroundings.
All tours are private, depart daily, and can be customized to suit individual interests and schedules. Please contact us at info@arohatours.co.nz or 0064-21-890611 for more information about our luxury New Zealand tours. Click here to view Our Vehicles or to see our great Travel Guide Profiles.
Day 1: Auckland arrival (City center and Americas Cup Village, Fish market)
You will be met on arrival at Auckland International Airport by your Aroha NZ Tours Representative, and transferred to your accommodation in our luxurious vehicle. You will spend the day in the Inner City and near the America‟s Cup Village. Auckland is known as the City of Sails! Walk the inner city with its many shops and galleries. Visit the nearby unique harbour location makes the Auckland Fish Market an easily accessible and captivating destination for locals and tourists alike. The Fish Market building, hosts a variety of fresh seafood retailers, a boutique food market, restaurants, licensed cafes, an extraordinary wine encounter and the ever popular Auckland Seafood School. At lunchtime our open-air courtyard and cafes bustle with a steady stream of diners. By night it's the aromas of Asia that permeate the air as our standalone Hong Kong style and Korean eateries, come into their own. Recommended: (Optional and extra charge) Enjoy Auckland the "City of Sails‟ onboard Pride of Auckland. Our relaxed 1,5h sailing excursions offer a uniquely local Auckland experience within an intimate and engaging atmosphere. View the stunning city sights while sailing on the inner Waitemata Harbour and sail where the wind takes us while watching Auckland‟s city highlights; including sailing under the Harbour Bridge. Sit back and relax or become the crew and help participate with the sailing experience. Accommodation: Auckland
Day 2: Auckland (Food and wine tour on Waiheke Island)
Start of private guided tour! You are close to the harbour, where you will take a ferry to Waiheke Island, which is renowned for its diversions from city life. Island life means beaches, arts and crafts shops, gourmet cafés/restaurants, world-renowned vineyards. A natural complement to the fine wines you can taste on your tour is the range of hand-made specialty foods and locally grown produce. As well as the many international award-winning olive oils, you can sample island delights such as succulent oysters straight from Te Matuku Bay, freshly roasted island coffee, wild honey and the famous local green herb spread. Accommodation: Auckland
Day 3: Auckland-Coromandel Peninsula (Kauri Trees, rainforest and white sand beaches) driving distance 3h
Today your tour takes you to the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula. We will pass through the historic gold mining town of Thames. From Thames your tour takes you out along the tranquil winding coastline of the western side of the peninsula to Tapu. From Tapu your journey takes you into the hills of the Coromandel Ranges, stopping off to visit the Rapaura Water Gardens where we follow the narrow and winding scenic road alongside a small stream which provides a short walk to the magnificent stand of New Zealand native Kauri trees. From here your tour will continue onto the beautiful and equally stunning east coast of the peninsula to Hahei. On arrival in Wghitinaga you will have the opportunity to explore the picturesque Beach where we can walk along the white sandy shoreline. Recommended: (Optional and extra charge) In the afternoon visit the new “Lost Springs” thermal pools. The Lost Spring is a unique thermal hot water and spa experience. With its sculpted pools, soothing waterfalls, and smoking volcano, the Lost Spring offers more than simply a swim in hot water. The smooth rocks, hidden gemstones, and dense foliage blend with the geothermal spring to tell a New Zealand story, the story of the birth of the Coromandel Peninsula. Revitalize in the day spa where a variety of healing treatments are offered in an exquisite setting. Explore the remarkable grounds planted with lush native New Zealand bush and tropical plants. Accommodation: East Coast Coromandel Peninsula
Day 4: Coromandel (Day for relaxing)
We can take you further to the top of beautiful Coromandel Peninsula and the same named township. Recommendation: (Optional and extra charge) There you can take you on a 1 hour train ride on a world-class narrow-gouge mountain railway. This is New Zealand's only narrow-gauge mountain railway along with a working pottery and wild life sanctuary. Stop at a lookout point, Called the Eyefull Tower, this handsome new building offers great panoramic views out over the island-studded Hauraki Gulf with the forested valley and mountains behind. Or: Fabulous golden and white sand beaches with magnificent coastal scenery, a rugged forest cloaked interior waiting to be explored, are just some of the natural attractions that have people returning to The Coromandel time after time. Or visit nearby Hahai and Hotwater beach. Recommendation: (Optional and extra charge) Take a small boat ride along the white sandy shoreline to Cathedral Cove and its marine reserve or explore the beautiful tranquil coast line in a Sea-kayak. No rush, just you and nature at its best. From Hahei, every inch of this volcanic coast is stunning. When conditions & tides allow, you have the option of paddling spectacular volcanic remains rarely seen by other travellers. You will experience caves, tunnels & blowholes. Accommodation: East Coast Coromandel Peninsula
Day 5: Coromandel-Bay of Plenty/Rotorua - Taupo (Maori show and village, geothermal areas) driving distance 4h
As you depart the stunning Coromandel Peninsula your tour will take you through the eastern North Island region of the Bay of Plenty, This is an area with a consistent mild climate which makes the region ideal for farming. The Bay of Plenty is also famous for its (kiwi) fruit crops and award winning vineyards. You‟ll arrive in the geothermal capital of NZ, Rotorua, around midday. We will stop for a visit to the world-renowned NZ Maori Arts and Crafts and Geothermal centre located in the Maori village known as 'Whakarewarewa'. Here you will see the world famous Pohutu Geyser, the largest geyser as such in New Zealand. Enjoy watching a 45-minute Maori cultural performance displayed in a Marae (traditional Maori meeting house) where you can enjoy the beautiful songs, music, dance and culture of the Maori. Today we stay at Lake Taupo, the largest Lake in this country on the way we stop at the Huka Falls - these spectacular falls roar through a 15-m wide chasm before plunging a further 11-m. Accommodation: Taupo
Day 6: Lake Taupo (day for relaxing)
Surrounded by stunning volcanoes, bush clad mountains and a spectacular landscape lies the largest freshwater lake in New Zealand and the Southern Hemisphere, Lake Taupo. Adventures in the Taupo region include jet boating, sky diving, bungy jumps, mountain biking or just plain relaxing besides the great lake or in a volcanic hot pool. Recommendation: (Optional and extra charge, children have to be over 3 years of age) 3h Riverjet Thermal Safari. Enjoy wildlife and scenery on the mighty Waikato River while travelling at a leisurely pace. Stop along the way to view the magnificent Tutukau Gorge where canyon walls rise dramatically up to 50 metres above the water and hear stories about the history of this region from your driver/guide. Step two: Includes your entry fee into Orakei Korako Thermal Reserve. Walk around this magnificent thermal reserve that was described by the Lonley Planet Guide as "possibly the best thermal area in New Zealand" Step three: On the return journey experience the iconic ability of the famous Hamilton Jet. Our experienced driver/guide will thrill you with spins on a high speed adventure in a part of New Zealand that many people don't see. Or (Optional and extra charge) 3h Private fishing cruise on Lake Taupo. For dinner we have organised a boat cruise on Lake Taupo, where you can just relax and reflect on the day‟s adventure or catch one of the many rainbow trout for your evening meal. The vessel is 60 foot long and the fish will be caught by downriggers. Average size of trout is 4 pounds and the flesh looks like Salomon, as they feet on the bottom sweet water crayfish. Accommodation: Taupo
Day 7: Lake Taupo – National Park – Rangitikei River valley (Volcanoes) driving distance 3h
After Breakfast we travel around the edges of the Lake and stop at the remote Lake Rotoaira to get our first spectacular view of the Volcanic Plateau and Mount Tongariro. We pass the park ranges, which include wildly differing landscape and scenery: from deserts to vast areas of tussock land, mountain beech forests and wetlands, all with a mix of native flora and fauna. You will see active volcanic craters, natural springs, and valleys filled with jagged lava flows. Driving through the National Park area, which is a World Heritage Site, you will get superb views at the volcanic peaks of Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe. By midday we drive deeper into farming country to the remote Mokai Valley, where the picturesque Rangitikei River meets the rugged Ruahine Ranges. Just before you settle back in your retreat, take a soak in a hot pool, which overlooks this remote valley. Accommodation: Mokai Valley
Day 8: Rangitikei Valley (Day for relaxing)
Not far from your accommodation, we take you to the edges of the crystal clear waters of the Rangitikei River set amongst the beautiful native flora and fauna, which provides a stunning backdrop that, can be variably appreciated. Your accommodation host provides a typical New Zealand farm environment. He will be happy to show you around the farm where you will experience an upfront encounter with the many farm animals on the property, Visit a working sheep farm or dairy farm nearby. In the evening unwind and relax with a home cooked dinner at this magic place. Highly recommended! (Optional and extra charge) We take you near our accommodation on a 3 hours soft rafting or kayak trip through the gentle rapids and the crystal clear waters of the Rangitikei River. We pass secret waterfalls and unbelievable scenery you will float quietly through Middle Earth (Lord of the Rings) and pass scenes from the Movie. Here you can stop for a fish, a swim or have a picnic. Accommodation: Mokai Valley
Day 9: Rangitikei - Waitomo Caves (Glow-worms caves) driving distance 5h
Departing from this stunning, your journey takes you north through the lush green rural farm land of the Waikato region. The rich and fertile pastoral land of the Waikato is one of New Zealand‟s major dairy producing and horse breeding areas, and host to incalculable stands of exotic timber. One of the major attractions of the Waikato/King Country region is the famous Waitomo Caves (translation: 'where the water disappears into a hole in the ground'). The caves are perhaps one of the finest natural attractions in the country, with their vast unique caverns and eerie stalactite and stalagmite formations home to the thousands and thousands of glow-worms forming magnificent constellations. On arrival in Waitomo a 45 minute guided tour of the caves is available for you to experience. Accommodation: Cambridge
Day 10: Waitomo Caves–Bay of Islands (Waitangi Meeting grounds, Historic Russell) driving distance 5h
Your tour departs the rugged west coast coastline for the beautiful Bay of Islands passing through Auckland. Your first major destination point Paihia, the first the first European settlement in New Zealand. We take you on a walk along the spectacular Paihia waterfront and Waitangi beach to the historic Waitangi Treaty grounds, the location of the signing of the peace treaty between the Maori and the British Crown in 1840. From Waitangi you board the ferry to Russell, a small romantic township rich with colonial history. Take time out for lunch in one of Russell‟s many historic buildings and enjoy glorious views out over the idyllic wharf. Spend the afternoon strolling the beach, and shops for local arts and crafts. Settle into your accommodation for the evening, and enjoy a leisurely dinner in the Russell town-ship. Last day with private guide! Accommodation: Bay of Islands
Day 10: Bay of Islands (Cruise of Bays and "Hole in the Rock")
In the morning, we take you on a 5 hour boat cruise around the many islands that make up the Bay of Islands, passing through the famous “Hole in the Rock” at Cape Brett, a fascinating natural geological attraction. Dolphin watching tours can also be arranged. We can take you to the furthest Point North to Cape Reianga and visit on the way some natural beautiful and remote beaches. Relax in the afternoon and enjoy one of the last evening with us. Highly recommended: (Optional and extra charge) We have arranged a ½ day Fly/Drive tour to Cape Reinga. The initial stage of the tour consists of a flight to Cape Reinga via Northland‟s harbours, including 90 Mile Beach. Once on the ground a comfortable air-conditioned mini-bus will meet the aircraft. It will take you on a 2½ hour tour around the top of New Zealand. After a 20 minute drive, we reach the Cape Reinga Lighthouse where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. Our local guide will accompany you on your walk to the lighthouse, sharing the myths and legends or this very spiritual area. The return flight to the Bay of Islands includes some of the most spectacular coastal scenery Northland has to offer. You will fly over Parengarenga Harbour and Great Exhibition Bay, which are only visible from the air or sea. This area is very remote and without a doubt one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand with it's pure white silica sand and crystal clear water. Accommodation: Bay of Island
Day 11: Bay of Islands (Day for relaxing)
Enjoy a last day relaxing in this area. Walk to the nearby shops, along the many beaches and enjoy the many coffee shops along this beautiful stretch of water. Accommodation: Bay of Islands
Day 12: Bay of island – domestic flight to Auckland – departure
A taxi will collect you from your accommodation in BOI and take you to the airport in Keri Keri. From there take a short domestic flight to Auckland, were you can connect with your international flight that afternoon.
Prices:
We are specialized in custom made tours for the desiring traveller. Each tour package will be tailored to your specific needs. Individual choices of accommodation style and the amount of activities you anticipate in will reflect on the general overall cost of the tour. Please make an enquiry.
Accommodation:
We use quality accommodations which are handpicked and have great hosts and are located in beautiful locations. All rooms are modern with private on suites or bathrooms! If you decide on 5 Star travel that we will offer you the best boutique lodging that New Zealand has to offer.
Dining:
We have decided not to include lunches and most dinners in the package (Exceptions’: Wilderness and Farm-stays and superior Lodges are inclusive private dinners), as we believe that each individual has different needs and tastes and that New Zealand had great restaurants in each area, that are within reach. It also allows you to choose places to your own budget. Your guide will advise you in each area about your best options. Special dietary needs can be catered for.
Activities:
We pride ourselves on a wide range of activities in your tour package. We chosen those that we feel will enhance your New Zealand experiences. You can participate in as many or as few as you like. If you are unable to participate in any activity or there are weather restrictions, alternatives will be provided where possible. Please check our activity list on 'Links' site
Transport:
All our vehicles are comfortable, luxury sedans (max 4 people) or luxury vans (max 8 people).
Support:
You will receive detailed pre-trip information. Including passport and visa requirements, packing tips and general travel information for New Zealand!
We have professional office staff to help you plan every aspect of your trip inside of New Zealand.
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