Australia & New Zealand Holidays is a subsidiary of the Travelcation Group
This immersive 8-day journey through New Zealand’s North Island blends nature, culture, and local charm into a relaxed and well-paced adventure. Begin in Auckland, the country’s largest city, where urban energy meets coastal calm. From here, venture across to Waiheke Island for a day of world-class wine, rolling vineyards, and seaside serenity.
The journey continues to Rotorua via the famous Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves, adding cinematic magic and natural wonder to your experience. In Rotorua, geothermal marvels meet rich Māori heritage through powerful performances and steaming landscapes.
From Rotorua, travel south to Taupō, gateway to the Tongariro National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage site. Hike volcanic trails and admire alpine views before reaching Wellington, New Zealand’s creative capital. Explore its museums, harbours, and hillside lookouts, soaking up a perfect blend of Kiwi culture and coastal beauty.
Ideal for couples or solo travellers who want a well-rounded North Island experience, this itinerary captures the very essence of Aotearoa’s diverse landscapes and local stories.
Welcome to Aotearoa! After arriving in Auckland, a private transfer will take you to your hotel in the heart of the city. Spend the afternoon getting your bearings—explore the Viaduct Harbour, shop on Queen Street, or stroll through Albert Park. For sunset, head to the top of the Sky Tower or take a short ride to Mount Eden for panoramic views over the city and Hauraki Gulf. Tonight, enjoy a relaxed dinner at one of Auckland’s harbourside restaurants.
Accommodation: A central Auckland hotel, such as The Grand by SkyCity or similar
Today, board a ferry bound for Waiheke Island, a lush haven of vineyards, olive groves, and ocean views just 40 minutes from Auckland. On arrival, enjoy a full-day guided wine tour, sampling award-winning wines and artisan produce at some of the island’s best cellar doors. Between tastings, take in spectacular coastal scenery and relaxed island charm. Return to Auckland in the late afternoon and spend the evening at your leisure.
Accommodation: A central Auckland hotel, such as The Grand by SkyCity or similar
Depart Auckland this morning for a full-day scenic transfer to Rotorua, with two iconic stops along the way. First, explore the enchanting Hobbiton Movie Set, where you’ll stroll past hobbit holes and enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon Inn. Next, visit Waitomo Glowworm Caves to witness thousands of tiny glowworms light up underground limestone caverns. Continue through the lush Waikato region and arrive in Rotorua by early evening.
Accommodation: A Rotorua hotel, such as Pullman Rotorua or similar
Today is all about Rotorua’s rich geothermal and cultural offerings. In the morning, visit Te Puia or Wai-O-Tapu, both renowned for geysers, boiling mud pools, and vibrant thermal terraces. Later, delve into Māori culture with a visit to a local marae or cultural centre, where you’ll experience traditional song, dance, and carving techniques. Optional upgrades include a Māori hangi dinner experience or a soak in the Polynesian Spa.
Accommodation: A Rotorua hotel, such as Pullman Rotorua or similar
Depart Rotorua for the short drive to Taupō, stopping en route at Huka Falls to witness thunderous turquoise waters. In Taupō, enjoy lakeside views of New Zealand’s largest lake before continuing into Tongariro National Park. Depending on arrival time, you may take a short walk to Taranaki Falls or enjoy the views from Whakapapa Village. Settle into your lodge surrounded by dramatic volcanic landscapes.
Accommodation: A national park lodge or nearby hotel, such as The Park Hotel Ruapehu or similar
After breakfast, take in more of Tongariro’s alpine beauty with a short morning hike or visit a scenic lookout. Then travel south through rolling farmland and native bush as you make your way to Wellington. Arrive in New Zealand’s compact capital city by the afternoon and check in to your accommodation. The evening is yours—perhaps visit the waterfront or enjoy dinner at a local bistro in Cuba Street.
Accommodation: A central Wellington hotel, such as QT Wellington or similar
Spend today exploring the highlights of Wellington on a guided half-day city tour. Visit the impressive Te Papa Museum to learn more about New Zealand’s history and culture, stroll along Oriental Bay, and take the cable car up to the Botanic Garden. You’ll also enjoy time in charming neighbourhoods filled with art, coffee, and local flair. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore at your own pace.
Accommodation: A central Wellington hotel, such as QT Wellington or similar
Your North Island adventure concludes today. After breakfast, a private transfer will take you to Wellington Airport for your onward journey. If you’re not quite ready to leave, ask us about adding a South Island extension or a few extra nights in the capital.
Price & Availability
All bookings are subject to availability at the time of your request. Once we receive your booking enquiry, we’ll confirm availability within 24 hours.
Prices are quoted in Australian Dollars (AUD). If your package includes services priced in other currencies, currency conversion will be processed at midnight (AEST) each day. Please be aware that due to the constantly changing nature of exchange rates and supplier pricing, all package prices are subject to change until full payment is received and booking is confirmed.
Self-Guided Packages – Terms & Conditions
Our Self-Guided Packages are designed for travellers who want the freedom to explore independently, without the hassle of planning every detail. Each package follows a tried-and-tested itinerary that includes a combination of pre-booked services, such as accommodation and transport, and optional group tours or private experiences. You’ll have the flexibility to discover each destination at your own pace, with the confidence of having essential logistics taken care of and access to local support if needed.
Accommodation Flexibility
We understand that every traveller has different needs, so our itineraries offer flexibility in accommodation. You can choose from a range of hotels, from 3-star options to luxury 5-star properties, in most locations. If your first-choice hotel is not available at the time of booking, we will offer you an alternative of similar standard, quality, and location.
Travellers are welcome to customise their accommodation preferences before confirming their booking. If you’re unsure about the best options for your travel style, our team is happy to recommend alternatives.
Booking On Request
All packages are offered on request basis. In most cases, a deposit may be required before we can secure accommodation and services.
Once we receive your deposit and booking enquiry, we aim to confirm your package within 24 hours (longer if weekends or public holidays apply).
If your preferred travel dates are not available, we’ll suggest the closest alternatives or offer a full refund of your deposit.
Dynamic Pricing
Many of our accommodation providers and local suppliers use dynamic pricing models, which means prices fluctuate depending on factors such as demand, travel seasons, and availability.
Our listed “from” prices represent the lowest available rates based on low season travel with full availability. When you request a quote for your preferred travel dates, we’ll provide an accurate, up-to-date price based on availability at the time of quoting.
Prices may vary between the time we provide a quote and when you confirm your booking. Should there be any price differences, we will notify you before final confirmation and payment.
Itinerary Order & Availability
The order of your itinerary, including accommodation, tours, and transport, may be adjusted to secure the best availability and ensure a smooth travel experience. While we strive to follow the proposed itinerary as closely as possible, changes may be necessary, particularly during peak travel periods or when bookings are made close to your departure date.
For bookings made well in advance and outside of peak seasons, itinerary changes are uncommon. Any adjustments will be communicated to you in advance and are made with the aim of maintaining or improving the overall experience.
The final itinerary—including the order of your activities and accommodations—will be confirmed after your booking is secured.
Payment Terms
• A deposit may be required to secure your booking.
• Full payment is due no later than 45 days prior to your scheduled arrival date.
• If additional deposits are required by certain hotels or service providers, we will advise you at the time of confirmation.
• Your booking is not confirmed until full payment is received.
• Payments can be made via direct deposit, credit card, or other approved methods (merchant fees may apply).
Changes & Cancellations
• Your deposit is non-refundable once your booking is confirmed.
• Changes to your booking are permitted up to 45 days prior to departure, subject to availability and supplier approval. Additional fees may apply depending on the nature of the change.
• Cancellations within 45 days of arrival will incur a 100% cancellation fee, unless otherwise stated in your booking confirmation.
• Any rail tickets and flight tickets included in your package are non-refundable once issued and confirmed. These are subject to airline and supplier policies, which may include strict cancellation and amendment terms.
• We recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking to protect against unforeseen changes or cancellations.
Additional Information
• Please review visa requirements, health advice, and local regulations for your chosen destination prior to travel.
• We recommend allowing extra time for processing visas or travel documentation, especially during busy travel seasons.
• Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all bookings to cover unexpected events, including illness, cancellations, or delays.
If you’d rather chat, give one of our Travelcation Experts a call today to begin crafting your bespoke holiday experience.