An aerial view of the Bay of Islands
An aerial view of the Bay of Islands
Stunning Bay of Islands & Auckland Skyline
Stunning Bay of Islands & Auckland Skyline
Attractions and scenery in the Bay of Islands, North Island
Attractions and scenery in the Bay of Islands, North Island

The Winterless North Luxury Self-Drive

5 nights from £779 per person

Overview

A short but rewarding trip around the Bay of Islands, this is a six-day self-drive trip that offers beautiful scenery and memorable experiences. Journeying from Auckland to the township of Russell, you’ll make your way through the surrounding destinations that make the Bay of Islands such an appealing choice for visitors to the North Island. (NZ)

Prices are quoted per person on a twin-share basis and do not include international flights.

Highlights

  • Relax and unwind on the beaches of the Bay of Islands
  • Visit the seaside townships of Omapere and Opononi
  • Be amazed by the Kauri trees of the Waipoua forest
  • Admire the scenery of Matakana
  • Boutique Lodge and Hotel accommodation included

Tailor-make this holiday:
Our travel specialist can tailor-make this self-drive itinerary to your requirements, whether you’d like to extend your stay, change a hotel or perhaps you would like an upgraded stay along the way – our experts will be happy to create a tailor-made holiday for you.

Whats included?
  • Maps and itinerary
  • 4 breakfasts
Why Book with New Zealand Sky?
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Day 1

Auckland

Arrive into Auckland and pick up you itinerary, maps and hotel information. The remainder of the day can be spent exploring the city.

Overnight: Great Ponsonby Art Hotel B&B

Day 2

Auckland – Bay of Islands (228km)

Pick up your hire car and make your way north to the Bay of Islands, a journey which generally takes around 3½ hours. However if you plan a little longer for your journey, the township of Puhoi, the quirky town of Kawakawa and the harbour side of Whangarei are well worth a visit. Upon arrival into this area, admire the sub-tropical scenery and golden beaches. Cross the harbour via the Opua Ferry to arrive onto the Russell Peninsula which offers a charming village vibe.

Overnight: Arcadia Lodge (Breakfast included)

Day 3

Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands is a beautiful region and no visit here would be complete without a cruise or chance to swim with the dolphins. Waitangi is just a short distance north of Paihia and is a historical site with plenty of fascinating architecture and attractions to explore. It was here that the Treaty of Waitangi was signed between the Crown and Maori. The Bay of Islands is also a great gateway to venture to the top of New Zealand on a day trip – the Dune Rider will take you along 90 Mile Beach to Cape Reinga.

Overnight: Arcadia Lodge (Breakfast included)

Day 4

Bay of Islands – Waipoua Forest (122km)

Head west today to leave the Pacific Ocean behind and enter Hokianga and the wild waters of the Tasman. If you want to soak up the charming seaside feel of some of the townships, Omapere and Opononi are two of the best. The route ventures south and leads you into the Waipoua Forest where you’ll be surrounded by large Kauri trees and native foliage. Be sure not to miss the five minute loop to view the largest of all trees – Tane Mahuta.

Overnight: Waipoua Lodge (Breakfast included)

Day 5

Waipoua Forest – Mangawhai (132km)

Head south along the Kauri Coast and into the agricultural region of Dargaville. Stop off at the Matakohe Kauri Museum on your way back across the country where you can learn more about the social history and farming industry in this region. Head eastwards to the seaside destination Mangawhai, home to beautiful beaches, vineyards and olive groves.

Overnight: Lochiel Estate Vineyard (Breakfast included)

Day 6

Mangawhai – Auckland (122km)

Journey back to Auckland before dropping off your hire car at the airport and boarding your departing flight.

What’s Included

  • Boutique Lodge and Hotel accommodation as listed (5 nights)
  • 4 breakfasts
  • Car hire throughout - including rental car insurance, GPS, airport/ferry terminal fees and additional drivers
  • Tour pack - including detailed driving instructions, maps and guide books

Please note - International flights and domestic flights throughout New Zealand are not included in the price shown.

The following excursions are available to book - approximate prices per person in New Zealand dollars:

  • Dolphin Cruise to Hold in the Rock $250
  • Waitangi Treaty Grounds Guided Tour and Cultural Performance $86
  • Twilight encounter $210

Please note these prices are a guide only and can change at any time.

Alex Cooper
Book today

Talk to our travel experts for more information and to book or tailor-make your holiday

01342 310 581 Call us 9am-7pm Mon-Fri / 9am-5pm Sat-Sun

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