7 Day Northern Explorer
Explore New Zealand’s North Island on this fantastic 7 day Northern Explorer tour. From vibrant Auckland through the volcanic landscapes of the Central Plateau and the cultural capital Wellington, enjoy an unforgettable small-group travel experience.
Journey through the heart of New Zealand’s North Island on Kirra’s 7-day Northern Explorer small-group tour. From Auckland’s sparkling harbour to Wellington’s vibrant streets, this expertly guided adventure weaves together stunning landscapes, rich Māori culture, and warm Kiwi hospitality. Glide through glowworm-lit caves in Waitomo, feel the geothermal power of Rotorua, and unwind on the tranquil shores of Lake Aniwhenua. Be captivated by the turquoise waters of Lake Taupo, the thundering Huka Falls, and the rolling vineyards of Hawke’s Bay.
Every day brings a new taste, sight, and story. Savour a traditional Māori hangi feast in Murupara, sip award-winning wines at Napier’s Mission Estate Winery, and discover Wellington’s celebrated coffee culture. Travel in a luxury coach, stay in handpicked accommodations, and enjoy the expertise of your tour leader, who ensures every detail runs seamlessly. This is more than a tour - it’s an immersive journey through the people, places, and flavours that make New Zealand’s North Island unforgettable.
What's Included:
- Expert Tour Guide - Bringing each destination’s story to life
- Small Group Tour - Max 24, allows for intimate travel with a personal touch
- Luxury Touring Vehicle - Comfort, space, and stunning views on the road
- 6 nights’ accommodation - Hand-picked stays with local charm and comfort
- 6 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners - Savour fresh Kiwi flavours every day
- Waitomo Caves Experience - Glowworm-lit wonders in an underground limestone world
- Lake Tarawera Visit - Scenic beauty framed by dramatic volcanic landscapes
- Buried Village in Rotorua - Step back in time to 1886’s eruption
- Lake Aniwhenua Cultural Experience - Authentic Māori hospitality and storytelling by locals
- Huka Falls - Witness nature’s raw power in vivid blue waters
- Mission Estate Winery Lunch and Wine Tasting - Dine and sip in historic vineyard elegance
Haere Mai (Welcome) to Aotearoa New Zealand! Your journey begins in vibrant Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland, New Zealand’s largest and most cosmopolitan city. Known as the City of Sails, Auckland boasts two stunning harbours, sparkling waterfront views, and an incredible volcanic landscape with more than 44 dormant volcanoes waiting to be explored.
After arriving, make your way to the centrally located Oaks Auckland Hotel in Downtown Auckland, the perfect base to start your adventure. Check in, drop your bags, and take a moment to soak in the city atmosphere. At reception, you’ll be greeted with a welcome letter containing essential tour details. This evening, meet your fellow travellers and friendly tour guide at 6:15pm before heading out at 6:30pm for a delicious welcome dinner. It's the perfect way to connect, relax, and get excited for the unforgettable days ahead.
- Accommodation: Oaks Hotel, Beach Road, Auckland (or similar hotel)
- Meals Included: Dinner
This morning, we depart Auckland for a day filled with unforgettable sights and experiences. Our first stop is Waitomo, world-renowned for its enchanting glowworm caves. Step aboard a boat and glide silently through a magical cavern illuminated by thousands of tiny glowworms, then wander through ancient limestone formations that have been millions of years in the making. This breathtaking natural wonder was even featured by Sir David Attenborough during his visit to Aotearoa, New Zealand.
From here, we continue to Rotorua, a geothermal paradise and vibrant centre of Māori culture. Discover bubbling mud pools, erupting geysers, and the rich traditions that make Rotorua one of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations. This evening, we’ll gather for a delicious group dinner before settling in for a relaxing night in Rotorua – ready to embrace tomorrow’s adventures.
- Accommodation: Distinction Rotorua (or similar hotel)
- Included Activities: Waitomo Glowworm Caves Experience
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, we journey along the shores of Lake Rotorua to a stunning lookout over the dramatic Mount Tarawera, once home to the legendary Pink and White Terraces before a devastating 1886 eruption reshaped the landscape. Our exploration continues at the Buried Village of Te Wairoa, New Zealand’s most visited archaeological site, where we’ll uncover the fascinating stories and preserved remains of this fateful event.
In the afternoon, we’ll wander beneath the towering Redwoods and magnificent Douglas firs of Whakarewarewa Forest, surrounded by New Zealand’s iconic silver ferns. You’ll then have free time to explore Rotorua at your own pace, perhaps stroll through Kuirau Park to see bubbling mud pools and steaming lakes, wander the elegant Government Gardens, soak in the healing waters of the Polynesian Spa, or take the Skyline Gondola for sweeping views over this geothermal wonderland.
- Accommodation: Distinction Rotorua (or similar hotel)
- Included Activities: Lake Tarawera, The Buried Village and Whakarewarewa Forest
- Meals Included: Breakfast
2025 | ||
---|---|---|
Arrive | Depart | Availability |
05 Sept 2025 | 11 Sept 2025 | |
03 Oct 2025 | 09 Oct 2025 | |
24 Oct 2025 | 30 Oct 2025 | |
31 Oct 2025 | 06 Nov 2025 | |
14 Nov 2025 | 20 Nov 2025 | |
21 Nov 2025 | 27 Nov 2025 |
2026 | ||
---|---|---|
Arrive | Depart | Availability |
18 Sept 2026 | 24 Sept 2026 | |
02 Oct 2026 | 08 Oct 2026 | |
09 Oct 2026 | 15 Oct 2026 | |
16 Oct 2026 | 22 Oct 2026 | |
06 Nov 2026 | 12 Nov 2026 | |
20 Nov 2026 | 26 Nov 2026 | |
27 Nov 2026 | 23 Dec 2026 | |
04 Dec 2026 | 10 Dec 2026 |
2027 | ||
---|---|---|
Arrive | Depart | Availability |
15 Jan 2027 | 21 Jan 2027 | |
29 Jan 2027 | 04 Feb 2027 | |
05 Feb 2027 | 11 Feb 2027 | |
12 Feb 2027 | 18 Feb 2027 | |
26 Feb 2027 | 04 Mar 2027 | |
12 Mar 2027 | 18 Mar 2027 | |
26 Mar 2027 | 01 Apr 2027 | |
09 Apr 2027 | 15 Apr 2027 | |
23 Apr 2027 | 29 Apr 2027 |
2025 - 2026 Season (01 Sep 2025 - 30 Apr 2026)
Single - $4,795pp
Twin/Double - $3,995pp
2026 - 2027 Season (01 Sep 2026 - 30 Apr 2027)
Single - $5,295pp
Twin/Double - $4,195pp
Accommodation Pre Tour - Auckland
Single $340pp, Twin/Double $365pp
Accommodation Post Tour - Wellington
Single $435pp, Twin/Double $465pp
All prices listed are in New Zealand Dollars
