Auckland, Waiheke Island and the Bay of Islands road trip

Itinerary in brief:

• 2 nights Auckland
• 3 nights Bay of Islands

Day 1: Arrive Auckland

On arrival into Auckland, you'll head into the city, checking into your hotel for one two nights. 

Day 2: Waiheke Island 

Spend today exploring the nearby island of Waiheke. This beautiful spot combines scenic landscapes, excellent food and wineries and a relaxed atmosphere that's perfect for your first day in New Zealand. Stroll along golden beaches before visiting a local vineyard for a delicious lunch and spend the afternoon browsing small galleries, boutiques and organic olive groves. It's an easy going day where you'll learn lots about this haven near Auckland and settle into your time in New Zealand. 

Day 3: Drive to Bay of Islands      

After breakfast, depart Auckland and make your way north towards the Bay of Islands. Why not stop off in at Whangarei Falls, where you can enjoy the short walk to the waterfalls, as well as a stop at Kawakawa to view the remarkable public toilets by the late Austrian artist and architect (and resident) Frederick Hundertwasser. Arriving in Bay of Islands, you'll check into your hotel for three nights - why not head out to enjoy some local seafood for dinner?

Days 4 & 5: Bay of Islands and Cape Reinga

On your first day in the Bay of Islands, we've included a half day tour up to Cape Reinga, flying up on a fixed wing plane. Spend 45 minutes flying over Northland's spectacular harbours, passing over incredible beaches including the famous Ninety Mile Beach. From there, you'll land near Cape Reinga Lighthouse and spend a few hours enjoying a tour of the region in a minibus. Visit the lighthouse, tuck into afternoon tea on Tapotupotu Bay beach and explore the sand dunes before heading back on the plane along the opposite coastline. You'll fly over the pure white sands of Great Exhibition Bay and the Kauri Cliffs as well as the Bay of Islands region before landing back in Paihia. 

The rest of your time here is yours to enjoy the area - why not head out on a cruise to see the famous Hole in the Rock or to head out and swim with dolphins. We also really recommend a visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where the nation's founding document was signed between the Māori chiefs and the British Crown. It's a fascinating place to discover. 

Day 6: Bay of Islands to Auckland   

Head back to Auckland today - why not travel via Goat Island Marine Reserve? Here you can swim, snorkel, dive or even take a glass-bottomed boat to discover the abundant marine life just off the beach. Picnic at a beautiful spot at the end of the coastal walk before heading back to the airport in Auckland where you'll drop off your hire car and catch your onwards flight.