The Signature Inspiring North Island Tour is an 8 day guided journey from Auckland to Wellington combining world-class rail travel with authentic local experiences. This immersive adventure showcases the North Island’s rich diversity from volcanic landscapes and geothermal wonders to serene coastlines and vibrant cities. Travelling aboard the Northern Explorer train in Scenic Plus comfort, guests experience the ever-changing scenery of Aotearoa through panoramic windows, exquisite regional cuisine, and expert commentary.
Highlights include a traditional tea ceremony at Zealong Estate, a sunset cruise in Raglan, encounters with rare wildlife at Sanctuary Mountain, and a mesmerising boat ride beneath the glowworm caves of Waitomo. Travellers may choose to visit either Rotorua, renowned for Māori culture and geothermal wonders, or Ohakune, gateway to Tongariro National Park’s dramatic peaks. The journey continues through alpine landscapes, river gorges, and rolling farmland before arriving in the capital, Wellington, where art, cuisine, and creativity thrive.With curated excursions, 4–5 star accommodation, and seamless travel arrangements, this tour offers an enriching blend of nature, culture, and connection. By journey’s end, travellers leave with a deeper appreciation for New Zealand’s beauty, its people, and the stories that shape its land.
Arrive in Auckland, New Zealand’s City of Sails. After check-in, explore the harbour, visit the Sky Tower or relax in a waterfront café. This evening, meet your Tour Director and fellow travellers at a welcome dinner and drink.
Overnight in Auckland
Accommodation: 4–4.5 Star Hotel
Board the Northern Explorer Scenic Plus train and enjoy the Waikato’s rural landscapes. Visit Zealong Tea Estate for a guided tour, ceremony, and Signature High Tea. Later, cruise Raglan Harbour at sunset with dinner on board.
Overnight in Hamilton
Accommodation: 4–4.5 Star Hotel
Start the day with a guided walk at Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari, learning about native wildlife and traditional Māori uses of local plants. Continue to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves to glide through a galaxy of tiny lights underground.
Overnight in Hamilton
Accommodation: 4–4.5 Star Hotel
Rejoin the Northern Explorer for a journey through rugged landscapes to Tongariro National Park. Marvel at the volcanic peaks and visit Tūroa ski field before dinner in Ohakune. Guests on the Rotorua route enjoy an evening at leisure.
Overnight in Ohakune
Accommodation: 4–4.5 Star Hotel
Travellers in Ohakune enjoy lunch at Lauren’s Lavender Farm, wandering fragrant fields before returning to relax in town. Rotorua guests walk the Redwoods Treewalk and enjoy a cultural evening and dinner at Te Pā Tū.
Overnight in Ohakune
Accommodation: 4–4.5 Star Hotel
Ascend Mt Ruapehu for sweeping mountain views before rejoining the Northern Explorer southbound. Journey past river gorges, farmland, and the Kapiti Coast before reaching Wellington, where the evening is free to dine and explore.
Overnight in Wellington
Accommodation: 4–4.5 Star Hotel
The perfect day does exist and it includes exploring Wellington!Today is free for you to experience vibrant Wellington as you please. Start by joining our Wellington City introduction tour and then head off to explore Cuba Street’s cafés, bookstores, and eccentric shops. Get cultured at Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum, or visit Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary to surround yourself by native birdlife and regenerating forest.You won’t get bored with the plethora of activities on offer. From coffee, culture, historic buildings to botanic gardens and much more… the list goes on! If you need any suggestions or recommendations, just reach out to your helpful Tour Director or our Travel Centre to pre-book an experience. Enjoy your final dinner tonight with your fellow travellers.
Overnight in Wellington
Accommodation: 4–4.5 Star Hotel
Enjoy breakfast before bidding farewell to your fellow travellers. A transfer to Wellington Airport is included, or extend your stay to further explore the capital’s vibrant culture and coastal charm.
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.
Minimum Age: 16 years and over. Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
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 65 days prior to departure, subject to availability and supplier approval. Additional fees may apply depending on the nature of the change.
• Cancellations within 60 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.