Bay of Islands Tour
Date(s): Please enquire for available dates
Cost: From NZ$920.00 inc GST
Discover the Bay of Islands on this leisurely excursion
DAY 1
Travel from the Bay of Plenty or Auckland as far as Snells Beach, near Warkworth. Situated on the Matakana Coast this is a popular destination off the beaten track, boasting spectacular views of Kawau Island and an abundance of wineries. (D)
DAY 2
This morning we visit the famous Kauri Museum at Matakohe. Learn about the historical significance of the ancient Kauri trees and Kauri gum. Travelling on through Dargaville and the Waipoua Forest, home of NZ’s largest and oldest Kauri trees, we stop at Tane Mahuta, the country’s largest known Kauri tree, believed to be around 2000 years old. Visit the Omapere Museum to learn about Opo, the lone dolphin which became a famous resident in the harbour in 1955, putting the tiny township of Opononi on the map. From here we head east across to Paihia, stopping to view the Hone Heke monument, and the famous Kawakawa loos! We will spend 3 nights in Paihia. (B, D)
DAY 3
Today we drive to the historical and picturesque town of Kerikeri. See the famous Stone House, the oldest stone building in NZ, dating back to the 1830’s. Another historical building is Kemp House, which holds the title of NZ’s oldest surviving building, dating back to the 1820’s. We then take a seat on the tiny steamboat, the “Eliza Hobson”, for a cruise up the river. This afternoon we will take a coastal drive as far as Mangonui, where we will enjoy their world famous fish ‘n’ chips for dinner overlooking Doubtless Bay.
Dinner at own expense. (B)
DAY 4
This morning enjoy a morning of leisure to explore at your own pace. Maybe browse around the shops and waterfront, or perhaps take an optional morning cruise out to the famous Cape Brett and Hole in the Rock, or a full day optional excursion along the fascinating Ninety Mile Beach and northern most point in NZ, Cape Reinga. This afternoon we meet up together again for a ferry trip across the bay to the township of Russell where we board a coach for a mini tour of this historic area. You’ll see all the major sights of Russell, including Pompallier, Christ’s Church, the Maritime Visitor centre and the fabulous views from Flag Staff Hill. Once back in Paihia, we board our coach to drive the short distance to the historical Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed. (B, D)
DAY 5
As we make our way home, we will stop in Whangarei for a visit to the Clapham’s Clock Museum, situated on the fabulous Whangarei Town Basin, boasting galleries, shops and cafes.
Includes:
- Bed & breakfast 4 nights
- Dinner 3 nights
- Entry to Kauri Museum
- Entry to Omapere Museum
- Ferry & Excursion to Russell
- Entry to Stone Store and Kemp House
- Steamboat river cruise
- Entry to Clapham's Clock Museum
