Our beloved Far North - 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 at a relaxed pace with a maximum group size of 14 guests in a comfortable luxury mini van, you’ll enjoy ever-changing scenery, welcoming communities, and learn great cultural history along the way.
Activity Level 1
Early Booking Discount - Book by 23 July 2026 and save $70 per person!
Home pick up and return within the Auckland Metropolitan area (if applicable).
Services of a Travelwise Holidays Driver/Tour Leader throughout.
Comfortable luxury mini van transportation.
6 nights quality hotel accommodation throughout.
All locally guided sightseeing tours and entry fees:
Daily breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners as specified.
Travelwise Holidays documentation.
SAT 03 APR - AUCKLAND/OMPARERE
Our journey begins as we depart Auckland and head north to Matakohe, located midway between Auckland and the Bay of Islands. Here we will stretch our legs and visit the Kauri Gum Museum, followed by lunch at the popular Gum Digger Cafe. After lunch, we pass Kai-Iwi Lakes before arriving at Footprints of Waipoua. We will meet our guide, who will take us on a memorable journey through the forest, exploring nature's stages of evolution, whilst providing a mythological and interactive interpretation of how life in the forest, with some of the largest remaining kauri trees in the world, are intertwined with the local Maori people. Later this afternoon we arrive in Omapere. Stay Sands Hotel 1 night. Included: L, D
SUN 04 APR - OMAPERE/KERIKERI/PAIHIA
After breakfast at the hotel, we head to Manea, for the ‘Footprints of Kupe Experience’. This unique cultural encounter allows us to journey into Te Ao Māori, the Māori world. Enjoy a 75 minute multisensory journey of guided storytelling through art, taonga (cultural treasures), film, performance, digital interaction, and the splendour of Hokianga’s natural surroundings. After, our next stop is at the Marsden Winery for lunch, then onwards to Paihia for a relaxing free afternoon. Stay Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge, Paihia 2 nights. Included: B, L, D
MON 05 APR - PAIHIA
This morning we take the short drive from Paihia to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds for a private guided tour at 9.30am, followed by time to explore the museum and watch a cultural performance at 11.00am. Then this afternoon we head out on the water to enjoy the ever popular Cape Brett Hole in the Rock dolphin cruise. Included: B, D
TUE 06 APR - PAIHIA/TAIPA
We head out on the water again this morning, this time on the morning ferry to picturesque Russell to enjoy a wander through this quaint town, and lunch at the Duke of Marlborough located on the waterfront. After our meal, we head back on the ferry to Paihia to meet our coach, and take a leisurely drive to Taipa via Doubtless Bay and Mangonui. Stay Taipa Beach Resort, 2 nights. Included: B, L, D
WED 07 APR - TAIPA - DAY TOUR TO CAPE REINGA
Today we head to beautiful Cape Reinga, where the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea collide. Enjoy the magical views from the Cape Reinga Lighthouse, travel along Ninety Mile Beach, and enjoy informative and entertaining commentary throughout. A picnic lunch is included. Included: B, L, D
THURS 08 APR - TAIPA/WHANGAREI
Departing Taipa this morning, we begin our journey south and travel to KeriKeri where we make at stop at Kemp House and Stone Store, which interestingly is the oldest undamaged stone building in New Zealand. Be sure to shop for unique local products. We will enjoy lunch at the Plough & Feather situated across from the Stone Store, before ending the day in Whangarei. Stay Distinction Hotel Whangarei 1 night. Included: B, L, D
FRI 09 APR - WHANGAREI/AUCKLAND
This morning we visit Hundertwasser Art Centre, where this unique building and gallery celebrates painter, architect, ecologist and visionary Friedensreich Hundertwasser and contemporary Māori artists. A visit to the gift shop will provide for some unique souvenirs. After the art centre, we drive down the scenic coast loop to Snells Beach. The friendly team at Brick Bay Winery will welcome us for lunch, and there is an opportunity to perhaps enjoy the sculptural walk if you wish. From there, we continue our journey home to Auckland, arriving back mid afternoon. Included: B, L
Deposit: $500pp
