Discover the beauty of the Bay of Islands, Cape Reinga and the Matakana Wine Region on this three-day New Zealand self drive tour from Auckland.
You'll journey to the historic town of Russell via the Waipoua Forest. The highway through the forest is memorable for the natural gateways created by huge kauri trees and the fringing of colourful ferns along the road's edge.
You'll spend a day cruising in the Bay of Islands discovering the famous Hole in the Rock, spotting dolphins and visiting Otehei Bay. After visiting the Waitangi Treaty Grounds on your final morning, you'll travel back to Auckland via the Matakana wine region, the Kawiti Glowworm Caves, the stunning Orewa Beach and Wenderholm Regional Park. Discover the beauty of the Bay of Islands, Cape Reinga and the Matakana Wine Region on this three-day New Zealand self drive tour from Auckland.
You'll journey to the historic town of Russell via the Waipoua Forest. The highway through the forest is memorable for the natural gateways created by huge kauri trees and the fringing of colourful ferns along the road's edge.
You'll spend a day cruising in the Bay of Islands discovering the famous Hole in the Rock, spotting dolphins and visiting Otehei Bay. After visiting the Waitangi Treaty Grounds on your final morning, you'll travel back to Auckland via the Matakana wine region, the Kawiti Glowworm Caves, the stunning Orewa Beach and Wenderholm Regional Park.
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Itinerary
Day 1
Self-Drive to Russell via Waipoua Forest
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Upon arrival, you'll pick up your rental SUV from the airport and begin your three-day adventure travelling to Russell via the Waipoua Forest. The highway through the forest is memorable for the natural gateways created by huge kauri trees and the fringing of colourful ferns along the road's edge. The historic township of Russell, in the Bay of Islands, was the first capital of New Zealand. Wander the beachfront, enjoy some of New Zealand's oldest buildings and enjoy a drink at the waterfront.
Accommodation
Arcadia Lodge★4 star
Activities
Waipoua ForestOptional Activity
RussellOptional Activity
Transportations
Rental Car from Auckland Airport to Russell
Destinations
Waipoua Kauri Forest
Russell
Day 2
Explore the Bay of Islands & Cape Reinga
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Today, you'll have several options to explore this beautiful part of New Zealand. You can discover the Hole in the Rock, view dolphins and visit Otehei Bay on a premium cruise and experience the very best of what the Bay of Islands has to offer. Alternatively, you can embark on Salt Air’s 'Cape Reinga Fly/Drive' half-day tour by aeroplane is the alternative way to travel to the top of New Zealand to experience it’s beauty, history and scenery from both the air and on land.
Accommodation
Arcadia Lodge★4 star
Activities
Scenic 'Hole in the Rock' Cruise by Explore Group
Salt Air Tours - Cape Reinga Fly/Drive TourOptional Activity
Meals
Breakfast and dinner
Destinations
Russell
Cape Reinga
Day 3
South to Auckland via Matakana
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Today, you'll travel south back to Auckland via Matakana, famous for the numerous award-winning wineries and their restaurants in the area. You'll make stops en route which may include the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the Kawiti Glowworm Caves, the stunning Orewa Beach and Wenderholm Regional Park. Upon arrival in the city, you'll head out on a relaxing sightseeing tour to explore the CBD and outer areas of the city. This concludes your wonderful New Zealand self drive tour!
Activities
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Waitomo Glowworm CavesOptional Activity
Matakana WineriesOptional Activity
Auckland
Transportations
Rental Car from Russell to Auckland
Meals
Breakfast
Destinations
Russell
Waitangi
Waitomo
Matakana
Auckland
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What’s included?
2 nights accommodation
3 activities
2 breakfasts and 1 dinner
Ground transportation
What’s not included?
Airport transfer
Alcohol beverages
Domestic flights
Entrance fees
Entry visas / airport departure tax
Gratuities
International flights
Laundry
Licensed English speaking guides
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Trekking permits
Starting From
AU$ 774/ per traveller sharing
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Benefits of this trip
New Zealand in 3 days
4-star accommodation
24/7 in-destination support from your local designer
