The Long White Cloud: Wellington to Auckland
- Duration
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 3,656
Unearth cultural treasures and heartfelt moments as you travel the length of the North Island of New Zealand. Discover the cultural highlights of the capital Wellington, experience the wonder of a traditional Maori meal cooked underground in Rotorua, and delve into Art Deco art history in Napier.
This 8-day New Zealand vacation takes you across the country’s North Island, visiting Wellington, Napier, Rotorua, and Auckland. It features a mix of moderate and first-class accommodations, shared tours, and is a great way to see most of the country on one itinerary.
Your journey across the North Island starts in Wellington, the capital of New Zealand known as “Windy Welly.” You’ll head on a sightseeing tour to see the city’s parliament buildings and visit Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. You’ll have another day to explore the city in whichever way you’d like. Head to Weta Workshop to learn about the special effects and props behind The Lord of the Rings trilogy, or head on a guided walking tour to see the Victorian timber homes strung along the hillside.
From Wellington, head through dairy farmland on route to Hawkes Bay, one of the most famous wine regions in New Zealand and home to Napier, the country’s centerpiece for Art Deco. A tour will get you up to date on the earthquake that destroyed the city in the past as well as the modern wine culture that defines the city. Further north lies Rotorua, the geothermal marvel that has mud pools, hot springs, and Pohutu Geyser, which rises 30m high. The city is one of New Zealand’s main tourist hubs, as well as home to the largest population of Maori in the country. Head to the Whakarewarewa Living Village to delve into Maori culture, watch traditional performances, and enjoy a Hangi feast, which is cooked in an underground oven. Another day in Rotorua, you’ll head on a trek through the nearby redwood forest and Rainbow Springs Nature Park, where you have a chance to spot a kiwi alongside the clear mineral springs.
Continue north and stop off at the Waitomo Caves to explore an underground world lit up by bioluminescent glow worms. Your final stop is Auckland, the largest city in the country, which is consistently rated as one of the most livable cities on the planet. Join your tour group and toast your trip together with a celebration dinner. You’ll then say goodbye to your fellow travellers and connect to the airport to return home.
- Duration
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 3,656
Itinerary View Trip Map
Welcome to Wellington
Upon arrival at Wellington Airport you'll be transferred to your hotel. Spend some time at leisure to relax or explore on your own. This evening, join your Journey Director for a Welcome Reception, followed by dinner.
| Meal Plan | Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 Nights |
| Accommodation |
Hotel Sofitel Wellington |
| Location | View map |
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Hotel Sofitel Wellington
Sofitel Wellington is ideally positioned in the Central Business District and government hub. Within walking distance from the major tourist attractions, with many restaurants and cafes nearby. The hotel provides great views of lush hillsides and the Botanical Gardens. All 129 Guest Rooms are beautifully …
Sofitel Wellington is ideally positioned in the Central Business District and government hub. Within walking distance from the major tourist attractions, with many restaurants and cafes nearby. The hotel provides great views of lush hillsides and the Botanical Gardens. All 129 Guest Rooms are beautifully appointed in vintage gold and bronze tones and feature indulgent rain showers.
Facilities
- 24 Hour Reception
- Air Conditioning
- Babysitting Services
- Bar
- Free WiFi
- Non-Smoking Rooms
- Non-Smoking Throughout
- Restaurant
- Room Service
- Wheelchair Accessible
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Wellington at Leisure
Today is your choice of sightseeing: You could experience Weta Cave, home of the creative wizards behind The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Go on a guided city walking tour around Wellington or a guided tour of Te Papa Museum of New Zealand. Your Journey Director can assist in booking your optional experiences.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Wellington - Hawkes Bay
Travel through the dairy farming land of Manawatu to Napier in Hawkes Bay. This evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel.
| Meal Plan | Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 Nights |
| Accommodation |
Porters Boutique Hotel |
| Location | View map |
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Porters Boutique Hotel
Step into a world of luxury, comfort, and relaxation. Nestled in the heart of the charming Havelock North village and surrounded by the majestic hills of Hawke's Bay, Porters Boutique Hotel offers unique luxury accommodation. Relax in elegantly appointed guest rooms, complete with plush, classic …
Step into a world of luxury, comfort, and relaxation. Nestled in the heart of the charming Havelock North village and surrounded by the majestic hills of Hawke's Bay, Porters Boutique Hotel offers unique luxury accommodation.
Relax in elegantly appointed guest rooms, complete with plush, classic furnishings and adorned with original local artwork. Enjoy attentive luxury service and full amenities within a stylish, intimate space that reflects the beauty and grandeur of the breathtaking Hawke's Bay region.Facilities
- Bar
- Laundry Service
- Meeting Rooms
- Reception
- Room Service
- Wifi/Internet Access
Photo gallery
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Napier (Relaxed Start)
Enjoy a relaxed start before we venture out to explore the region of Hawkes Bay. Relive the glamour and style of the jazz era with a luxurious vintage car tour. You'll be met your driver, in Art Deco costume, who will provide a fascinating commentary as you are driven in style, through Napier and surrounding areas. You'll learn about the earthquake that destroyed the city, hear stories of the people that led the rebuild, and discover the Art Deco style. This evening, enjoy wine tasting and dinner at one of their world-famous wineries.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|
Hawkes Bay - Rotorua
Enjoy a leisurely start to before continuing the journey to nearby Rotorua. Visit the spectacular Huka Falls, the only outlet of water from Lake Taupo, and then it's on to Rotorua. On arrival in Rotorua an orientation tour takes in views of Lake Rotorua. Later, you'll visit the Whakarewarewa Living Village for an insight into Maori life and how they interact with geothermal activity. Tonight, an evening of culture, history and scrumptious food awaits you at the Tamaki Family Marae. Wander through the ancient forest village and learn about Maori art forms and traditions, followed by a concert featuring local performers. Experience an authentic Maori Hangi meal, steamed underground in the traditional way.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 Nights |
| Accommodation |
Pullman Hotel Rotorua |
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Pullman Hotel Rotorua
The 130-room hotel will boast panoramic views of the city and lake area and feature a sophisticated Executive Lounge (a hallmark of every Pullman hotel), business lounge, chill-out lounge, restaurant and bar, gymnasium, car parking as well as five meeting rooms catering for conference and …
The 130-room hotel will boast panoramic views of the city and lake area and feature a sophisticated Executive Lounge (a hallmark of every Pullman hotel), business lounge, chill-out lounge, restaurant and bar, gymnasium, car parking as well as five meeting rooms catering for conference and events.
Facilities
- Bar
- Gym
- Lounge
- Parking
- Restaurant
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Rotorua
Ascending to the breathtaking Redwoods Treewalk, enjoy an elevated bird's eye view of the 115-year-old redwood giants and view the beautiful surrounds of the forest from a unquie perspective. Next stop is Rainbow Springs Nature Park. Discover native flora that grows around the crystal clear mineral water springs and you might even spot a kiwi or two!
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Rotorua - Auckland
Make your way to the famous Waitomo Caves for an exclusive 5-star Eco Glow Worm experience. Your guide sets the scene for a cave experience where you will see glow worms, cave formations and appreciate the beauty of Footwhistle Cave. Later, travel through the dairy farming district of Waikato, and onto Auckland. This evening, Toast your trip together tonight at a Celebration Dinner.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
| Accommodation |
Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour |
| Location | View map |
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Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour
Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour is located in the heart of Auckland, a unique maritime experience between vibrant Viaduct Harbour and the new Wynyard Quarter. Inspired by New Zealand's landscape and culture and boasting panoramic views of Waitemata Harbour, this beautifully designed hotel is a true …
Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour is located in the heart of Auckland, a unique maritime experience between vibrant Viaduct Harbour and the new Wynyard Quarter. Inspired by New Zealand's landscape and culture and boasting panoramic views of Waitemata Harbour, this beautifully designed hotel is a true landmark destination. The hotel features 172 luxury appointed bedrooms and suites.
Facilities
- Bar
- Business Centre
- Concierge
- Conference Facilities
- Day Spa
- Gym/Fitness Centre
- Laundry/Dry Cleaning Service
- Offsite Paid Parking
- Pool (s)
- Valet Parking
- Wheelchair Accessible Rooms
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Farewell from Auckland
Say farewell to your fellow travellers as your Inspiring Journey comes to an end and we transfer you to Auckland Airport for your onward flight.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Other Information
DEPARTURES:
2022: To be advised.
PRICE INCLUDES:
- 10 nights' accommodation in boutique lodges retreats and resorts
- Gourmet meals as listed
- Private car transfers on arrival and departure
- Wine included with dinner
- Services of a professional tour director
- Travel by luxury coach or 4WD vehicles
- No more than 20 guests
PRICE EXCLUDES:
- Travel insurance
- International and domestic airfare & airfare taxes
- Visa fees if applicable
- Meals and beverages not specifically indicated
- Items of a personal nature
- Gratuities
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single travellers are available on request - please enquire.
17 Dec 2021
