Auckland, New Zealand 
- Passionate Kiwi guides
- 2 nights in high-end hostel accommodation (dorm share, upgrades available)
- Small groups, maximum 16
- Orientation tour of every location
- Comfortable bus transport
- Continental breakfast every day
- Fish and chip dinner
WHERE WE VISIT
- Hokianga Harbour
- Paihia
- Waitangi Treaty Grounds
- Hundertwasser Toilets
- Kawakawa
What's Included
What's excluded
- Optional activities (add-ons) and upgrades.
Why do we love this
We love that this tour shows you some of New Zealand's quirky features like the Hundertwasser Toilets and awesome Hokianga Harbour!
WHAT TO EXPECT
Experience all the Northland region has to offer and soak up the sunshine... after all - this is the warmest part of New Zealand! A three-day trip around the beautiful Bay of Islands, this adventure will leave you wanting more. With plenty of stops along the way and a huge range of activities to choose from, this is a trip you'll never forget.
Transport and accommodation are included, and there are a few free activities thrown in to make it extra special. Extras like skydiving and swimming with dolphins can be added for an extra cost.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Auckland to Paihia
Kia ora! Welcome to New Zealand!
You'll start with an 8.00 am welcome breakfast today, before your adventure kicks off! Start with a scenic drive to the subtropical “Winterless North”. This is the name given to the Northland region of New Zealand, as it's one of the sunniest in the country.
The area is home to some seriously ancient and impressive kauri forests. Stop at the largest, the Waipoua Forest, to meet Tane Mahuta, the biggest the trees! At over 1,250 years old and over 51 metres tall, he’s looking pretty good for his age.
You’ll also visit Hokianga Harbour, known for i150-metre high sand dunes. If the weather's good and the tides are on your side, you've got the option of sandboarding down into the beautiful water.
Later, it's back on the road and onto the town of Paihia, the jewel of the Bay of Islands. You'll arrive in the early evening and as the sun sets, you’ll treat you all to a fish and chips feast overlooking the water. It doesn’t get more Kiwi than that!
Day 2: Paihia
With more than 140 sub-tropical islands dotted around the coastline, there's plenty to fill your day with.
Hitting the water is the best way to enjoy the coves and beaches here, and the options are endless. Cruise through a natural rock archway, explore the ocean floor on a scuba mission, sail in search of the local dolphins (or even swim with them!), or snorkel your way around beautiful islands.
For an epic day of exploration, take a road trip to Cape Reinga - the northernmost tip of New Zealand - to see where the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean collide. It’s an unforgettable sight.
For the thrill-seekers, there's the chance to fly high above the ocean on a parasailing adventure. Or, you can hire a kayak, sailboat or stand-up paddleboard and check out the Bay of Islands from sea level.
Whatever you choose, you can be sure you'll have an incredible day in this watery paradise.
Day 3: Paihia to Auckland
Just like that, it's time to wave goodbye to the spectacular Bay of Islands. But there are a few activities left in store before you do!
Discover the Bay of Islands’ important role in New Zealand’s history with a trip to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. With a great museum and lots to see, this spot a truly unforgettable insight into Maori culture. The 35-metre carved waka (ceremonial war canoe) is the world’s biggest and is a must-see.
Then, after lunch, it's back in the bus and back on the road. There's time for a very special rest stop in Kawakawa, where you'll get a glimpse into the quirky side of New Zealand. Check out the grass-roofed, mosaic-covered and cobblestoned Hundertwasser Toilets! There’s even a living tree in there - a bit different to your normal loos!
There are also some beautiful waterfalls around the area, which your guides know how to find. Stop off at one for a little break.
Later, you'll head back to Auckland via Northland’s east coast, which boasts stunning beaches and coastal walks. Be sure to have your swimwear handy, if there's time, you'll get to squeeze in a swim at your guides favourite spots!
After an epic day, you'll reach the bright lights of Auckland at approximately 6.00 pm.
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