North Island Explorer

Begin your North Island Explorer – we can arrange flights to and from the UK or as part of a round the world journey.

Welcome to Auckland, The city of sails. New Zealand’s largest city is the gateway to the North Island. Start by taking in the views from the iconic sky tower – the tallest structure in the Southern hemisphere. Discover Viaduct Harbour with its waterfront dining and nightlife, or for city escape take a ferry across the water to historic Davenport. This village within a city has a fascinating maritime history and stunning views of the city. If you are feeling active climb Mount Eden, an extinct Volcano that offers fabulous views, set sail on an Americas Cup Yacht, or take a bridge climb tour on the harbour bridge. There’s no shortage of shops, museums, and galleries in Auckland, so however you spend your time here you will not be bored!

Pick up your hire car from downtown Auckland and drive South to Raglan.

New Zealand’s surf mecca draws board riders from around the world, but there’s more to Raglan than its celebrated waves. Stay a night or two in this hippy town and you’ll soon be taken by its relaxed vibe and breathtaking scenery. Take a surf lesson, wander on black sand beaches, or soak up the glorious sunsets with a fish and chip supper. Explore eclectic boutiques on the town’s main street and enjoy its mix of cafes and bars. The majestic Bridal Veil Falls are just a short drive from Raglan and can be discovered on a short but stunning walk.

Journey to Matamata, home of the magical Hobbiton Movie Set™. Lord of The Rings Fans will be in their element here as they take a guided tour of the 44 hobbit holes that populate The Shire, including that of Bilbo Baggins! Enjoy a drink in The Green Dragon Inn™ or visit at sunset to take part in a Hobbit Feast. Having visited Hobbiton, you’ll find Matamata to be a charming town with a selection of B&B’s to accommodate you.

Head North today to The Coromandel Peninsula.

The Coromandel Peninsula (or simply The Coromandel as the Kiwis refer to it as) is a coastal paradise located on the North Island of New Zealand, known for its lush forests, stunning beaches, and relaxed vibes. A favourite of New Zealand holiday makers, it’s perfect mix of both adventure and tranquillity. Must see places include Cathedral Cove, a golden beach that is home to a cavernous limestone rock formation that can be explored on foot or as part of a kayak tour. Dig your own hot pool at Hot Water Beach, a thermal stretch of sand that is heated by its underground hot springs; or ride the Driving Creek Railway through pristine rainforest and misty mountains. The historic gold mining town of Coromandel, features plenty of boutique shops and galleries, making this a relaxed base to explore the Peninsula from.

Continue your North Island odyssey as you travel along the coast to Tauranga and The Bay of Plenty.

The Bay of Plenty is one of New Zealand’s most captivating coastal regions. At its heart lie two must-visit destinations: Tauranga and Mount Maunganui—each offering a unique experience within minutes of each other. Tauranga is the Bay of Plenty’s largest city and a thriving waterfront hub that has grown up around its attractive harbour. You’ll find art galleries, boutique shopping, buzzing cafes, and excellent restaurants lining the Strand. The waterfront boardwalk and bridges over tidal estuaries give the city a relaxed but sophisticated coastal feel. Just across the harbour bridge, Mount Maunganui (or “The Mount”) is a beach-lover’s paradise. With its iconic extinct volcano, Mauao, rising above golden sands, it offers one of the best short hikes in the country—rewarded with panoramic views of ocean, islands, and coastline. The vibe here is relaxed and sun-soaked: think surf shops, smoothie bars, and barefoot mornings on the beach. It’s also home to natural hot saltwater pools, perfect after a walk or swim.

Your journey takes you inland today as you head to New Zealand’s thermal hotspot – Rotorua!

Sat atop one of the worlds most active geothermal zones, Rotorua is a natural wonderland. Its otherworldly landscapes are shaped by boiling mud, steaming hot springs pools and erupting geysers, that can be explored in its incredible thermal parks. The city is also one of the best places in New Zealand to immerse yourself in Māori culture. Attend a traditional hangi feast, experience the haka up close, and learn of traditions and stories, which will educate and entertain. Rotorua’s scenery is as beautiful as it is dramatic with tranquil lakes and towering forests that can be explored on foot or bike. Adventurous travellers may want to try white water rafting, or zorbing, or for a more relaxing experience unwind in one of the luxurious spas.

Enjoy a Maori cultural experience included as part of your tour.

Make the short drive to Lake Taupō today- make sure you stop at the Champagne Pool on the way – this thermal wonderland is well worth the stop.

Lake Taupō isn’t just any lake — this colossal body of water was born from one of the most explosive volcanic eruptions in human history. Today, it’s crater is the largest lake in New Zealand, covering more area than Singapore. Evidence of Taupō’s volcanic past can be seen at the nearby Craters of The Moon, a public park which is characterised by its boiling mud, smoking craters and colourful soil. The nearby Huka Falls are another spectacular display of nature, where the bright blue waters Waikato River churn and froth through a narrow chasm. Take to the lake on a kayak or enjoy a relaxed boat ride across the water to see ancient Māori rock carvings at Mine Bay. The town of Taupō itself is charming and laid-back, offering lakeside cafés, boutique shops, and art galleries. Walk the lakefront promenade at sunset for a view that stretches to the snow-capped peaks of Tongariro National Park.

Travel East to Napier and the beautiful Hawkes Bay Region

With its unique blend of 1930s charm, world-class wine, and a dramatic backstory shaped by resilience, Napier will surprise and delight you with its charms. In1931, a massive earthquake razed much of the city to the ground. It was rebuilt in the bold, geometric, and flamboyant style of the times: Art Deco. Marine Parade, the city’s palm-lined coastal promenade, is home to beautiful gardens, quirky sculptures, and family-friendly attractions like the National Aquarium of New Zealand. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely bike ride or a sunset stroll with views across the Bay. Just beyond the city lie the rolling vineyards of Hawke’s Bay, one of New Zealand’s premier wine regions. Known especially for its bold reds and crisp Chardonnays, the region offers dozens of cellar doors to explore. Pair your wine tasting with locally sourced cuisine and you’ve got a gastronomic experience framed by sea views and sunshine.

Drive South to Martinborough, an attractive town and a wine lovers hot spot!

Martinborough is one of NZ’s best kept secrets and is a must visit for wine lovers. With its picturesque colonial-style square, boutique vineyards, and laid-back charm, this little town punches well above its weight. Known for its world-class Pinot Noir, many of Martinborough’s vineyards are within walking or cycling distance from the town centre. Pedal past golden fields and vine-covered hills, tasting as you go—it’s wine tasting with a relaxed, countryside twist.

Drive to Wellington and drop off your hire car – you won’t need a vehicle to explore this compact capital city.

Nestled between rolling green hills and a stunning harbour, Wellington is a truly beautiful city. Known for its creative energy, vibrant culinary scene, and breathtaking landscapes, this compact capital offers a perfect blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Whether you’re wandering the charming laneways of Cuba Street, riding the iconic red cable car up to the Botanical Gardens, or standing atop Mount Victoria for panoramic views of the harbour, Wellington invites you to slow down, soak it all in, and discover why locals proudly call it the “coolest little capital in the world”. Don’t leave without visiting Te Papa, Tongarewa, a huge museum that explore New Zealand’s art, history and Māori culture.