Scenic NZ Tours’ comprehensive tour will bring out the incredible splendors of New Zealand to life, including ancient kauri forests, Hobbiton (‘Middle-earth’) and Rotorua’s geothermal activity.
Arrive in Auckland’s “City of Sails”, and take a city tour with David who boasts extensive knowledge about Auckland’s best locations to photograph as well as areas not accessible via other tour companies.
Bay of Islands
The Bay of Islands is New Zealand’s premier beach destination, boasting miles upon miles of pristine beaches and rugged coast dotted with 144 islands. Yachting, fishing and sailing enthusiasts flock here as it serves as an important hub of Maori culture; visit local Maori meetinghouses for cultural experiences like exploring indigenous kauri forests with local guides or learning engaging cultural rites and practices from Maori elders.
Paihia, Russell and Kerikeri make for an ideal starting points to explore the Bay of Islands. Here you can rent a yacht for the day or simply cruise around while keeping an eye out for dolphins, whales and other marine life.
Urupukapuka Island is an idyllic predator-free sanctuary filled with birdsong and boasting some of the most stunning views in the region. Take a ferry over to Kawakawa village and admire one of Friedensreich Hundertwasser’s only building designs in Southern Hemisphere: you’ll also be able to visit historic Maori pa sites and an operational wharf! Or head out to Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where historic treaties between British and Maori were signed and debated upon!
Cape Reinga
An unforgettable trip to the Far North wouldn’t be complete without visiting Cape Reinga’s iconic lighthouse and meeting of two oceans at Cape Reinga, an experience which will remain with visitors long after they return home. This charming spot will delight all senses.
Cape Reinga lighthouse sits atop a narrow rocky cape tucked between the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean, and from here visitors can witness their meeting to create turbulent waves with Little Mermaid-worthy foam. Maori people refer to this spot as Te Rerenga Wairua – “Place of Spirits Leaping”, where after death spirits begin their journey into the underworld.
Cape Reinga can only truly be experienced on a guided tour with a knowledgeable local guide who can share stories and history of this significant region. Coach tours regularly depart from Bay of Islands and Kaitaia to make this trip up the Cape, and once at its peak you will be met by stunning coastal landscapes of crashing waves and native seaside flora.
Rotorua
Rotorua is well-known for its geothermal activity, such as steamy silica terraces and bubbling mud pools. To discover these sights, take the 15-kilometer Tarawera Trail which leads to Lake Tarawera as well as a hot spring where hikers can soak their feet at the end of each hike day.
Whitewater rafting on the Kaituna River will leave thrill-seekers wanting more, with 14 rapids and three waterfalls along its course. There are also several shorter walking tracks such as its waterfront connecting Polynesian Spa to Sulfur Point and Governor’s Garden.
Families will love Skyline Luge Rotorua, an exciting cart ride that combines elements from soapbox and go-kart racing. Or take the scenic Gondola ride up Mt Ngongotaha and wind your way back down one of the park trails before satisfying your hunger at Food Market Kitchen or Stratosfare Restaurant and Bar – depending on the season you may even catch an evening cultural show at Mitai that showcases some of Rotorua’s many Iwi (tribes) by watching performances of Haka and Poi dancing.
Wellington
Wellington is the cultural heart of New Zealand and hosts many attractions that cater to travelers of all types. Join a tour to take in all its highlights – from iconic museums like Te Papa to parliament buildings or Mount Victoria for scenic city and ocean views!
Visit ZEALANDIA Urban Ecosanctuary, with its 225 hectares, as a must. Visitors will gain insight into conservation efforts made here and can catch sight of saddlebacks and takahe.
Visit the Museum of New Zealand to gain an in-depth knowledge of its rich history and culture, such as learning about Gallipoli’s battle and its lasting effect. Afterward, stop by Dowse Art Museum for an incredible display of arts and culture before winding down your day with brunch at an iconic Wellington breakfast joint like Fidel’s where they offer delicious poached eggs, streaky bacon, mushrooms on sourdough bread dishes for breakfast!
Christchurch
Christchurch, the largest city of New Zealand, serves as both an entry and exit point to road trips across the nation. Therefore, visitors will find plenty of attractions worth seeing within its borders.
From cutting-edge architecture to the historic stone homes of its central district, Christchurch offers something for everyone. The Avon River runs through town creating an idyllic scene for cyclists or flat-bottom punt riders to explore on cycling paths or flat-bottom punts; Hagley Park and Christchurch Botanic Gardens should not be missed either!
Christchurch offers some unique thrills for visitors looking to spice up their vacation experience, such as zip lining at Skyline NZ. One of the first cities in New Zealand to provide this exciting activity, Christchurch Adventure Park features beginner-friendly routes as well as fast technical trails – mountain bikers will especially love them. Bungee jumping was virtually invented here so this city makes an excellent place to give it a try from either Ferry Bridge or Hanmer Springs nearby!