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About Your Journey
Discover the landscapes, stories and hidden gems of New Zealand’s East Coast.
Journey through some of the North Island’s most beautiful and less travelled regions, from Rotorua and the remote East Cape to sunny Gisborne, Art Deco Napier and lakeside Taupō. Follow spectacular coastal roads, discover fascinating local history and wildlife, visit Cape Kidnappers’ famous gannet colony and enjoy memorable food, wine and scenery along the way.
Itinerary
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Travel to Rotorua and visit historic Ohinemutu and the beautiful Government Gardens. Later, ride the Skyline Gondola up Mt Ngongotahā and enjoy an early dinner overlooking Lake Rotorua.
Included: D
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Travel via Lakes Rotoiti and Rotomā to Whakatāne and Ōpōtiki, where you’ll visit the fascinating Ōpōtiki Museum. Continue along the rugged East Coast to Te Kaha, with time to relax before dinner.
Included: B D
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Journey around the remote East Cape, travelling via Hicks Bay and Te Araroa before continuing to impressive Tolaga Bay Wharf. Enjoy spectacular coastal scenery and an included lunch along the way before arriving in Gisborne for a two night stay.
Included: B L D
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Begin at the Gisborne Farmers Market before visiting Eastwoodhill National Arboretum, home to more than 3,500 varieties of trees. This afternoon, explore the highly regarded Tairāwhiti Museum.
Included: B D
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Before leaving Gisborne, visit Kaiti Bay and the site where Captain Cook first landed in New Zealand in 1769. Continue south to Napier, with the remainder of the afternoon free to enjoy at your own pace.
Included: B D
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Head to Cape Kidnappers for a guided Gannet Safari and encounter its remarkable colony of more than 20,000 gannets. Later, discover Napier’s famous Art Deco sights before dinner at iconic Mission Estate Winery.
Included: B D
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Travel inland via the scenic Gentle Annie route to Waiouru, stopping at the National Army Museum for lunch. Continue through the dramatic central North Island landscape to Taupō for your final night.
Included: B L D
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Visit spectacular Huka Falls before travelling north through the Waikato. Enjoy lunch at Rosenvale Gardens before continuing to Auckland.
Included: B L
Head east and discover a coastline made for exploring.
Reserve your place on this unforgettable tour. Numbers are limited, so don’t delay.
Why you’ll love this trip
Travelwise’s exceptional planning takes care of every detail – quality accommodation, comfortable coach travel, sightseeing and memorable dining experiences – so you can simply relax and enjoy the journey. From the remote coastline of the East Cape and the natural beauty of Gisborne to Cape Kidnappers, Art Deco Napier and spectacular Huka Falls, this leisurely tour combines classic Kiwi scenery with fascinating history, wildlife and places that are often missed on a North Island journey.
Inclusions & Activities
Coach transportation: Enjoy comfortable coach touring
Accommodation: 7 nights quality accommodation throughout
Sightseeing: All sightseeing and attractions as shown, including Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony, Huka Falls and more
Meals: Daily breakfasts plus lunches and dinners as specified
Transfers: Home pick up and drop off in Auckland Metro area
Tour Leader: Travelwise Tour Leader throughout, plus local guides
Gillian Scott, Tour Leader
Your Tour Leader
Gillian Scott
Gillian is an adventurous, creative Tour Leader at Travelwise whose love of travel, sport, and storytelling brings energy and inspiration to every tour. She’s the perfect guide for travellers who want fun, friendship, and unforgettable experiences.
Before you book, you should know
Activity Level 1: Leisurely
A gentle pace with relaxed sightseeing and regular breaks. Suitable for travellers comfortable with short walks, light touring, a few stairs, and independently boarding coaches, trains and boats.
A good choice if you prefer: A slower pace, regular breaks and minimal physical demand.
Departure: 18 November 2026
Other Notes:
Deposit: $500 pp
Balance Payment Date: Upon confirmation
Insurance: Not mandatory for this tour.
