6 day Northern Combo
6 days starting in Auckland
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New Zealand tour itinerary name and information
Thrifty Tours

6 day Northern Combo

This 6 day tour is a great option for people with limited time who wish to experience as much as they can around the Auckland area. Learn about New Zealand's history, explore Bay of Islands, travel to Rotorua via the famous Waitomo glow worm caves and experience New Zealand's geothermal capital before returning to Auckland.

Tour summary and feature

About this NZ Road Trip

Seat-in-Coach Touring

This suggested tour costs from NZD$2,360 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Auckland, finishes in Auckland

6 days/5 nights

Hotel 3 star

 Customisable? YES

 Viewed 3 times in the last 7 days

Also included in this package
- Private Transfer Auckland Airport to Auckland accommodation
- Private transfer Auckland Inner City (x 3)
- Rotorua Intercity Depot to Rotorua Accommodation - Private Transfer
- Rotorua Accommodation to Rotorua Intercity Depot - Private Transfer
- Private Transfer Auckland accommodation to Auckland Airport
Meals included: 5 breakfasts
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Tour full itinerary
Detailed itinerary for this New Zealand Road Trip
Jump to Day 1 /Day 2 /Day 3 /Day 4 /Day 5 /Day 6

Day 1 - Arrive into Auckland today and transfer to your accommodation

Tour day 1
6 day Northern Combo - Day 1
Private Transfer Auckland Airport to Auckland Accommodation

You will be met at the Auckland airport by the driver and transferred to your Auckland accommodation.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Harbour Dinner Cruise with Explore

This unique on-water dining experience is not to be missed while you're in Auckland. Enjoy smooth sailing on the Waitemata Harbour - then watch this photogenic city come alive with twinkling lights. Enjoy your meal as you sail around the beautiful Auckland Harbour taking in the view as the sun slowly sets. You'll be treated to canapes and a drink as you set off towards Westhaven Marina. Choose between dining in the downstairs cabin or on deck to take in the iconic sights of the Auckland Harbour. To finish the evening off, savour your dessert course as you leisurely sail back to Auckland's vibrant Viaduct Harbour.

Accommodation: QT Auckland
Accommodation type: Hotel 4 star
Rare beauty is celebrated in bold design that’s strikingly off the wall. Home to internationally renowned Chef Sean Connolly, QT Auckland puts delicious touches on every agenda. Sip pretty at the rooftop bar, or recharge in the hotel’s rooms and suites. Discovery awaits, as textures and hues mix to celebrate the local surrounds, complete with plush furniture, sleek bathrooms and all the creature comforts.

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Day 2 - Auckland to Paihia and Hole in the Rock cruise

Tour day 2
Meals included: Breakfast
6 day Northern Combo - Day 2
Auckland to Paihia by InterCity Coach

Heading north to the Bay of Islands takes you along the coast road past the seaside villages of Orewa and Waiwera. Then its on to the township of Puhoi, New Zealand's only Bohemian settlement, then Warkworth and the harbour side city of Whangarei and the unique township of Kawakawa. Arriving into the sub tropical Bay of Islands you are greeted with bush clad hillsides dropping to golden sand beaches. Paihia is the main tourist centre in the bay and has a great beach side atmosphere.

Hole in the Rock Cruise with Fullers GreatSights

Board your cruise and take in the stunning views as you glide out through the islands and along the Rakaumangamanga Peninsula to Cape Brett, where a historic lighthouse keeps watch over and Piercy Island/Motukōkako, or as it is popularly known the ‘Hole in the Rock’. According to Māori legend, local warriors used to paddle through the Hole in the Rock in their canoes before departing for battle. Drops of water from the cave roof above were a good omen. If conditions permit, your skipper will expertly guide the ship through the narrow space. Keep an eye out for common and bottlenose dolphins, whales and other marine life during your cruise, and have your camera ready as you get up close to the action. The purpose-built catamaran is licensed by DOC (the Department of Conservation) for dolphin viewing and the crew have years of experience locating dolphins in these waters. Dolphin Seeker has indoor and outdoor seating available, and the largest outdoor viewing decks in the Bay of Islands.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Cape Reinga & Ninety Mile Beach Full Day Tour with Fuller GreatSights - Lunch Included

Journey to the very tip of the North Island and uncover a region of rich Māori tradition along the way on an unforgettable full-day tour. Travel along the sand-swept shore of Ninety Mile Beach in our purpose-built coach. Climb the massive sand dunes at Te Paki Stream and experience the thrill of sand-boarding. In Māori tradition, Cape Reinga or Te Rerenga Wairua is the place where spirits depart on their long journey back to the homeland. Stand at the northernmost point of New Zealand and drink in the panoramic views. As you stand beneath the iconic lighthouse, and watch the Tasman Sea and the mighty Pacific Ocean collide far below, you'll feel the power of this special place. Throughout the day your local driver guide will provide an entertaining and thought-provoking insight into the culture, history and natural wonders of the Far North. Your tour also includes a delicious locally prepared lunch to keep you fuelled throughout the day.

Accommodation: Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge, Paihia
Accommodation type: Hotel 3 star
The Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge, Paihia is located on the waterfront only 100 metres from Paihia wharf and township. All rooms are air-conditioned and hotel facilities include restaurant, swimming pool, spa pool and sauna.

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Day 3 - Explore historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds then return to Auckland

Tour day 3
Meals included: Breakfast
6 day Northern Combo - Day 3
Waitangi Treaty Grounds Guided Tour and Cultural Performance including shuttle

Waitangi is one of New Zealand's most historic sites where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between the local Maori and the British Government. This two day pass allows you access to the Treaty of Waitangi Grounds and includes admission to the Te Kōngahu Museum and Te Rau Aroha Museum and a Maori Cultural performance. During your guided tour, you'll learn about the history of the treaty and discover the stories and events that shaped New Zealand. The cultural performance inside the carved meeting house includes waiata (singing), poi, a display of Maori weaponry and the haka - a war dance New Zealand is well known for.
There is a free shuttle service to the grounds, this leaves from the Maritime Building, Pahia Wharf every hour on the half hour. It operates from 9:30 until 16:00.

Paihia to Auckland by InterCity Coach

Leaving the magical Bay of Islands behind you head south on State Highway 1 back towards Auckland, the city of sails, the route takes you through Kawakawa, affectionately known as 'train town'. The farming regions of Wellsford and Warkworth accompany you the rest of the journey before passing through the suburbs of the North Shore and crossing the harbour bridge and into the heart of Auckland City.

Private transfer Auckland Inner City with Corporate Cabs

You will be met by a representative of Corporate Cabs and transferred to your destination.

Accommodation: QT Auckland
Accommodation type: Hotel 4 star
Rare beauty is celebrated in bold design that’s strikingly off the wall. Home to internationally renowned Chef Sean Connolly, QT Auckland puts delicious touches on every agenda. Sip pretty at the rooftop bar, or recharge in the hotel’s rooms and suites. Discovery awaits, as textures and hues mix to celebrate the local surrounds, complete with plush furniture, sleek bathrooms and all the creature comforts.

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Day 4 - Auckland to Rotorua with Hobbiton and a Maori experience at Te Puia

Tour day 4
Meals included: Breakfast
6 day Northern Combo - Day 4
Private transfer Auckland Inner City with Corporate Cabs

You will be met by a representative of Corporate Cabs and transferred to your destination.

Auckland to Rotorua including Hobbiton and Te Puia with Gray Line

Take a journey into the heart of the Central North Island, Hobbiton Movie Set on a full-day sightseeing tour. Setting off from Auckland, travel through the lush farmland of the Waikato and King Country regions. Take a guided tour of the famous Hobbiton Movie Set, located inside a picturesque 1,250 acre sheep and beef farm near Matamata. Here, the village of Hobbiton was carefully created in amazing detail as a film location for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movie trilogies. During your guided tour of this amazing location you’ll see sights like Hobbit holes, the Mill and the Green Dragon Inn, and learn how farmland was transformed into a living, breathing piece of Middle-earth.
Gain an insight into New Zealand's Māori culture at Te Puia. You'll see Te Puia's woodcarving and weaving schools and see how these ancient Māori art forms are being passed on to a new generation of master artists. Afterwards, continue to Rotorua, arriving in the early evening.

Rotorua Intercity Depot to Rotorua Accommodation

You will be collected from Rotorua Intercity Coach Depot and transferred to your accommodation.

Accommodation: Sudima Lake Rotorua
Accommodation type: Hotel 3 star
Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua boasts a location that is second-to-none, right on the shores of beautiful Lake Rotorua. Adjacent to the world-famous Polynesian Spa complex and just a short stroll to all the attractions in Rotorua.

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Day 5 - Free morning to explore Rotorua - Return to Auckland this afternoon

Tour day 5
Meals included: Breakfast
6 day Northern Combo - Day 5
SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Original Ziplining Experience with Rotorua Canopy Tours

Embark on a three hour adventure through native New Zealand forest. Journey through the beautiful forest canopy via an incredible network of trails, tree platforms, Ziplines and swing bridges. See breathtaking views of the woodland valleys and hills as you fly through tight openings in the trees. In between the thrill of the ziplines and suspended tree bridges, your guides will share their passion and knowledge for the forest and the conservation challenges to preserve it. 

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Polynesian Spa Deluxe Lake Spa

Rotorua's Polynesian Spa offers a unique thermal spa experience on the shore of Lake Rotorua. You'll enjoy tranquil bathing and lake views in four shallow alkaline rock pools, each with different temperatures (36˚C to 42˚C). Here you are surrounded by revitalising native New Zealand flora, natural rocks, the sound of two waterfalls and a grotto. The pools are filled with soothing alkaline mineral water leaving your skin soft and supple. Relax in the outdoor relaxation area overlooking the four hot mineral pools and Lake Rotorua, here you can further unwind on the five geothermally heated recliners set in the stunning backdrop of New Zealand's lush and natural greenery. A large indoor relaxation lounge also overlooks Lake Rotorua, whereas a Lake Spa guest, you are welcome to move from the pools to the lounge once dried off and return to bathe in the Lake Spa pools as you wish. The Lake Spa is a unique thermal pool environment, where the atmosphere changes from day to night, and from winter steam to summer sparkle.

Rotorua Accommodation to Rotorua Intercity Depot

You will be collected from your accommodation and transferred to Rotorua Intercity Coach Depot.

Rotorua to Auckland by InterCity Coach

The drive from Rotorua to Auckland takes you through the heart of the Waikato and its rich agricultural land. Along New Zealand's longest river, the Waikato. A little further than Hamilton is Auckland City, New Zealand's largest, spread over approximately 60 square kilometres. From the vibrant and trendy fashion and cuisine found in Ponsonby and Parnell to the breathtaking native bush and beaches of the West Coast, Auckland is full of life and the opportunities to explore are endless.

Private transfer Auckland Inner City with Corporate Cabs

You will be met by a representative of Corporate Cabs and transferred to your destination.

Accommodation: QT Auckland
Accommodation type: Hotel 4 star
Rare beauty is celebrated in bold design that’s strikingly off the wall. Home to internationally renowned Chef Sean Connolly, QT Auckland puts delicious touches on every agenda. Sip pretty at the rooftop bar, or recharge in the hotel’s rooms and suites. Discovery awaits, as textures and hues mix to celebrate the local surrounds, complete with plush furniture, sleek bathrooms and all the creature comforts.

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Day 6 - Depart Auckland today - Transfer to the airport

Tour day 6
Meals included: Breakfast
6 day Northern Combo - Day 6
Private Transfer Auckland Accommodation to Auckland Airport

You will be met at your Auckland accommodation by the driver and transferred to the airport.

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If you have chosen to hire a Budget rental car then you may incur a one way fee if a portion of your hire is under 7 days in total. Your sales consultant can confirm this on booking.
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