Designers of Discerning Holidays
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You won't find another tour like this one! Explore Northland at leisure in a small group.
21 Mar CAMBRIDGE – AUCKLAND – RUSSELL (D)
This morning we journey north from Cambridge via Auckland (pick up from airport at 10.30am) and on to Russell. This is a longish day but we will be making frequent stops along the way and travel on more scenic routes where possible. In Kawakawa we’ll stop a look at the world-famous colourful Hundertwasser toilets and the new Te Hononga – Hundertwasser Memorial Centre.
On arrival in Russell, check in to the town’s most iconic hotel, The Duke of Marlborough, situated on the waterfront. The hotel is steeped in history and intrigue and claims to have been “refreshing rascals and reprobates since 1827”! Take some time to explore the curated art within the hotel or perhaps a stroll round town to stretch out your legs before meeting in the bar for drinks. This evening we will dine in the hotel restaurant.
Accommodation: The Duke of Marlborough Hotel, Russell (3 nights)
22 Mar RUSSELL (B, MT)
Russell features some of New Zealand’s oldest and most significant buildings and the town’s history is certainly interesting. Once known as the “Hell Hole of the Pacific” with a reputation as a lawless and rowdy port full of deserting seamen, runaway convicts, grog traders and settlers, Russell’s history certainly makes for an interesting tour! We spend a few hours this morning exploring the town and surrounds ending at Pompellier House for a French inspired morning tea.
Afternoon at leisure. Shoppers – there is a nice array of shops to get your fix in. Walkers – join Marie for an afternoon stroll around this picturesque area.
23 Mar ISLAND CRUISE (B)
Today (weather permitting) we follow the original Cream Trip route delivering mail and supplies to island residents just as Albert Fuller did when he first acquired the route back in 1927. Enjoy stunning views of the islands as we pop in and out making deliveries. On arrival at Cape Brett Lighthouse we’ll pass through the Hole in the Rock at Motukokako Island. You will also see the impressive Black Rocks and Marsden Cross, where the first Christian sermon was held in NZ back in 1814. Hopefully we will also see dolphins on our day out!
24 Mar WAITANGI – TAIPA BEACH (B, D)
We say Haere Ra to Russell and travel across to Waitangi to meet our local guide. On this informative tour you will discover contemporary museums, see carvers at work, attend a Maori cultural performance and visit the world’s largest ceremonial war canoe. There will be free time to roam about the grounds with their wonderful sea views.
Lunch and free time in Paihia (option to walk the 2km along Te Ti Bay to Paihia). We’ll then journey on to Butler Point for an interesting tour of the property including the Whaling Museum, Butler House and the extensive Gardens.
By late afternoon we will be checking in to our accommodation located right on the waterfront of picturesque Doubtless Bay. Dinner is included at the Resort tonight.
Accommodation: Taipa Beach Resort (3 nights)
25 Mar CAPE REINGA (B, L)
This morning we will drive over to Kaitaia and board a specially designed 4x4 passenger truck. Sit back and relax as our local tour guide shares some amazing stories of Far North legends and history. You can expect to see Houhora Heads and Mt Camel, the white silica sands at Rarawa, Te Paki Giant Sand Dunes (tobaggoning & sand surfing optional!), The Bluff, Aupouri Forest and 90 Mile Beach. Our main destination is of course Cape Reinga – the dramatic meeting place of the Tasman & Pacific Oceans. Lunch is included at Tapotupotu Bay.
26 Mar DOUBTLESS BAY (B, L, D)
Today we head out to do some exploring and walks on the Karikari Peninsula. The beaches here will take your breath away – simply stunning. Lunch is included at New Zealand’s northernmost vineyard – Karikari Estate. You might like to taste some of their superb wines produced from the slopes of this scenic vineyard.
This evening we visit the historic fishing village of Mangonui. Fresh fish from local boats is unloaded at the wharf in the village and much of it makes its way to the Mangonui Fish Shop. The shop has been selling fresh fish for over 70 years and tonight we have a fish & chip meal included for our dinner. After this we’ll take a walk up to the Rangikapiti Pa and admire the views from the historic reserve.
27 Mar MATAURI BAY – KERIKERI (B)
This morning we take a scenic drive to Matauri Bay. Option to walk up to the Rainbow Warrior Memorial (steep) or walk along the beach (flat).
After checking in to our accommodation in Kerikeri, we will drive down to look at some of New Zealand’s oldest buildings. Kemp House is the oldest surviving European building in New Zealand and The Stone Store is the country’s oldest surviving stone building. Time to learn all about the history from a local guide.
From the Kerikeri Basin you will have the option to do a scenic river walk to the Rainbow Waterfalls. If you’re not feeling so energetic, stay with our minicoach and drive to the Waterfalls!
Accommodation: Stay Kerikeri Motel (1 night)
28 Mar HOKIANGA (B, D)
We start the day with a tasty breakfast in a local café, before setting off to do some exploring in the area. By late morning we will reach Rawene where there is time to look at the art galleries / shops and have lunch at a harbourside café.
In the afternoon we visit Manea Footprints of Kupe for a unique cultural encounter by way of a multisensory journey through art, toanga, film, digital interaction and a cultural performance. You will come away from this with a better knowledge of Maori and the Hokianga which is a great way to segue into our last evening which is extra special. But first we will check in to our beachside hotel and have a little rest before meeting for an early dinner. With a local guide, we then head into the Waipoua Forest for a twilight encounter like no other!
Prepare yourself for spine-tingling chants and song as our guide leads us into the forest. Come face to face with our national icon, Tane Mahuta (our largest giant kauri), and Te Matua Ng?here (our oldest kauri). As day turns into night your senses become enhanced and you will be absorbing the spiritual energy of the forest – such an awesome way to finish off our Northland adventure!
Accommodation: The Heads Hokianga, Omapere (1 night)
29 Mar HOKIANGA – AUCKLAND – CAMBRIDGE (B)
After breakfast, we head home stopping enroute in the rural village of Matakohe. Spend some time in the award-winning Kauri Museum which tells the story of the kauri tree, the people and the industries that fuelled the building of our nation. After lunch we continue south via the famous Puhoi Pub for our last refreshment together.
Traffic dependent, we should get to Auckland Airport before 4pm (recommend you book flights out from 5pm onwards) and Cambridge by 6.30pm.
Cost
NZ$3150 per person twin share*
NZ$800 single supplement
*if you would like to twin share let us know and we’ll endeavour to find you a room-mate
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