About Your Journey
A relaxed 7-day journey through New Zealand’s Far North
Discover the Far North at an easy, unhurried pace – a wonderful mix of small communities, vast landscapes, and stunning beaches. From the wild beauty of Omapere and the charm of Kerikeri to the waterfront ease of Paihia and the laid-back feel of Taipa, this journey brings together some of our most treasured coastal gems.
Travelling with a maximum of 14 guests in a comfortable luxury minivan, you’ll enjoy ever-changing scenery, welcoming communities, and rich cultural history along the way. With Tour Leader Al Fleming looking after every detail, this is a stress-free New Zealand escape designed especially for over 60s travellers who want to see more without rushing.
Itinerary
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Depart Auckland and travel north to Matakohe for the Kauri Museum and lunch at the Gum Digger Café. Continue past Kai-Iwi Lakes to Footprints of Waipoua for a guided journey through the forest among giant kauri, including Tāne Mahuta. Arrive Omapere this afternoon. Overnight at Sands Hotel.
Included: L, D
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Visit Manea for the Footprints of Kupe Experience — a 75-minute cultural journey through art, taonga, film, and storytelling. Lunch at Marsden Winery, then continue to Paihia for a free afternoon. Two nights at Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge, Paihia.
Included: B, L, D
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Private guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, followed by time in the museum and a cultural performance. This afternoon, enjoy the Cape Brett Hole in the Rock dolphin cruise.
Included: B, D
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Morning ferry to Russell for time to wander this historic town and lunch at the Duke of Marlborough on the waterfront. Return to Paihia, then travel via Doubtless Bay and Mangonui to Taipa. Two nights at Taipa Beach Resort.
Included: B, L, D
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Full-day tour to Cape Reinga, where the Pacific Ocean and Tasman Sea meet. Enjoy views from the lighthouse, travel along Ninety Mile Beach, and a picnic lunch.
Included: B, L, D
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Travel south via Kerikeri to visit Kemp House and the Stone Store, New Zealand’s oldest undamaged stone building. Lunch at the Plough & Feather, then continue to Whangārei. Overnight at Distinction Hotel Whangārei.
Included: B, L, D
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Visit the Hundertwasser Art Centre, then take the scenic coast loop to Snells Beach for lunch at Brick Bay Winery, with the option of the sculpture walk. Return to Auckland mid-afternoon.
Included: B, L
The Far North, at a beautifully relaxed pace.
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 – home pick-up, luxury minivan travel, quality hotels, and all-inclusive experiences – so you can simply enjoy the Far North. Your dedicated Tour Leader, Al Fleming, brings caring professionalism and genuine warmth, creating a true sense of community among like-minded travellers over 60 from New Zealand. With a maximum of just 14 guests travelling by luxury minivan,
this is the stress-free New Zealand escape you deserve.
Inclusions & Activities
Luxury Minivan: Enjoy comfortable luxury minivan touring, with a maximum of 14 guests
Accommodation: 6 nights quality accommodation throughout
Sightseeing: All sightseeing and attractions as shown, including Kauri Museum, Footprints of Waipoua & 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
Al Fleming, Tour Leader
Your Tour Leader
Al Fleming
Al is an engaging, nature-loving Tour Leader at Travelwise who connects deeply with landscapes, history, and people. Al’s easy-going spirit and passion for the ocean and discovery make him the ideal guide for travellers who want to feel inspired and connected.
Before you book, you should know
Activity Level 1: 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: 03 April 2027
Other Notes: Maximum 14 guests.
Deposit: $500pp
Balance Payment Date: 04 February 2027
Bookings may still be available after this date. Please contact us for availability.
Insurance: Not mandatory for this tour.