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Enchanting Northland 5-Day Small Group Tour
On this 5-day Northland tour from Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland, we’ll travel up to Tutukaka and explore some of the Bay of Islands before heading back to Auckland. You’ll have the opportunity to visit Tutukaka, Paihia, Waitangi and some of the 144 islands that make up the magnificent Bay of Islands.
Venture with us on our Bay of Islands tour to the region known as ‘The Winterless North’! While we can’t promise sunshine 100% of the time, we can assure you that you’ll get to explore some truly spectacular scenery and have plenty of opportunity to take part in some once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Lush green hills, sweeping beaches, epic marine life, giant sand dunes, idyllic islands, and settlements steeped in culture and history – the Northland and Bay of Islands region are truly special.
We’ll have plenty of included activities and stops on our Bay of Islands tour including visiting Whangarei Falls – a 26m cascading waterfall, staying in Tutukaka - renowned as one of the top coastal destinations globally by National Geographic Traveller, sailing to Poor Knights Islands - featuring spectacular drop-offs, walls, caves, arches and rich biodiversity, and taking time to explore Waitangi Treaty Grounds and its important role in NZ’s history.
Optional activities include skydiving, scuba diving (both beginner or advanced), or cruises around the bays in search of the local sea-life! Or simply enjoy the town of Paihia or take the ferry to historic Russell. None of these are compulsory; just add the ones you want. Book this New Zealand itinerary for spectacular scenery and ultimate serenity!
This tour starts with a 6pm pre-tour meeting at your Auckland accommodation on Day 1 and ends in Auckland at 5pm on Day 5.
Slow Tours offers a range of Tours in New Zealand
AUCKLAND
Welcome to Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland!
Settle into your accommodation and start exploring our wonderful city. We recommend checking out the Auckland Sky Tower, this is the tallest building in New Zealand. If you are feeling extra daring you can jump off the Sky Tower, attached to a harness of course! Or how about checking out the Auckland War Memorial Museum, located in the middle of the beautiful Auckland Domain. Be ready for the 6pm pre-tour meeting at your accommodation where you will get to know your Tour Manager and be introduced to your new roadtrip friends. Afterwards, head out for a welcome dinner with your group and get to know each other.
AUCKLAND TO TUTUKAKA
We begin our day with a delightful breakfast at a charming local cafe, embracing the warmth of Kiwi hospitality. Our journey unfolds as we embark on a scenic drive towards Tutukaka. Our first stop brings us to the mesmerising Whangarei Falls, a 26m high cascading waterfall. Continuing our drive, we make our way to the enchanting Matapouri Beach. Nestled along the coastline, this pristine beach offers a serene escape. Feel the golden sand beneath your feet and enjoy the soothing sounds of the ocean. It's a perfect spot to relax, unwind, and appreciate the tranquil surroundings. In the evening, we arrive at the picturesque Tutukaka, a coastal gem known for its breathtaking views and was rated as one of the top coastal destinations on the planet by National Geographic Traveller.
Breakfast included
TUTUKAKA TO PAIHIA
Following a hearty breakfast, we set sail on a full-day cruise to the Poor Knights Islands that promises to be nothing short of extraordinary. As a total Marine Reserve, the Islands boast 11-million-year-old volcanic origins, featuring spectacular drop-offs, walls, caves, arches, and tunnels both above and below water. The rich biodiversity, including unique plant, animal, and fish life, makes this destination truly special. Prepare for a day filled with sightseeing, kayaking, cave explorations, snorkelling, swimming, sea mammal-spotting, and a delightful immersion in the fascinating history and facts of the islands. The highlight of the day is the visit to the world's largest sea cave, Rikoriko Cave, accessible by boat. Your day finishes with a scenic drive to Paihia, where you will spend the next day.
Breakfast and Poor Knights Island cruise included (with lunch)
PAIHIA
With more than 140 sub-tropical islands dotted around the coastline, how will you spend your day in the Bay? Hitting the water is the best way to enjoy the coves and beaches of this corner of paradise, and the options are endless. Cruise through a natural rock archway, explore the ocean floor on a scuba mission, or sail in search of the local dolphins. Check out our optional activities for ideas or hit up your guide for inspiration.
Breakfast included
PAIHIA TO AUCKLAND
Today, discover the Bay of Islands’ important role in New Zealand’s history with a trip to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. We love bringing you here, it’s a truly unforgettable insight into Māori culture. The 35-metre carved waka (ceremonial war canoe), the world’s biggest, is a must-see. After lunch we say goodbye to the Bay. We head back to Auckland via Northland’s east coast, which boasts stunning beaches and coastal walks. Make sure to look out your window while reminiscing over your incredible Bay of Islands holiday. After an epic day, we reach the bright lights of the City of Sails in the early evening – and bid farewell to your travel pals from tour.
Breakfast and Treaty Grounds included.
Tours marked with are special prices.
| Start | End | Max. No. Guests | Accommodation | Price p.p. | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 12 2025 | Jan 16 2025 | 16 | Single rooms | AU$2,540 | ||
| Double rooms | AU$2,000 | |||||
| Feb 09 2025 | Feb 13 2025 | 16 | Single rooms | AU$2,540 | ||
| Double rooms | AU$2,000 | |||||
| Feb 16 2025 | Feb 20 2025 | 16 | Single rooms | AU$2,540 | ||
| Double rooms | AU$2,000 | |||||
| Feb 28 2025 | Mar 04 2025 | 16 | Single rooms | AU$2,540 | ||
| Double rooms | AU$2,000 | |||||
| Mar 16 2025 | Mar 20 2025 | 16 | Single rooms | AU$2,540 | ||
| Double rooms | AU$2,000 |
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