Breadcrumb
New Zealand tour itinerary name and information
Thrifty Tours

5 Day Best Of The North Island

Explore the best of the North Island. Cruise to the famous Hole in the Rock, explore ancient limestone caves, discover a pre-European Maori Village and enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon Inn after your tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set.

Currency selector
Select your currency to view indicative pricing
Tour summary and feature

Quick Itinerary Details

New Zealand Independent Tour

This suggested tour costs from NZD$2,250 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Auckland, finishes in Auckland

5 days/4 nights

Motels

 Customisable? YES

 Viewed 339 times in the last 7 days

This tour also includes
- Paihia Accommodation to Paihia central/coach stop
- Private Transfer - Rotorua Intercity Bus Stop to Rotorua Accommodation with Ready2Roll
- Paihia central/coach stop to Waitangi Treaty Grounds via Paihia Accommodation
- Waitangi Treaty Grounds to Paihia Accommodation
Tour full itinerary
Detailed Itinerary
5 Day Best Of The North Island - Day 1
Auckland to Paihia by InterCity Coach

Heading north to the Bay of Islands takes you along the coast road past the seaside villages of Orewa and Waiwera. Then its on to the township of Puhoi, New Zealand's only Bohemian settlement, then Warkworth and the harbour side city of Whangarei and the unique township of Kawakawa. Arriving into the sub tropical Bay of Islands you are greeted with bush clad hillsides dropping to golden sand beaches. Paihia is the main tourist centre in the bay and has a great beach side atmosphere.

Paihia central/coach stop to Waitangi Treaty Grounds via Paihia Accommodation with Haruru Cabs

You will be transferred from Paihia Central to Waitangi Treaty Grounds via your accommodation.

Waitangi Treaty Grounds Guided Tour and Cultural Performance

Waitangi is one of New Zealand's most historic sites where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between the local Maori and the British Government. This two day pass allows you access to the Treaty of Waitangi Grounds and includes admission to the Te Kōngahu Museum and Te Rau Aroha Museum and a Maori Cultural performance. During your guided tour, you'll learn about the history of the treaty and discover the stories and events that shaped New Zealand. The cultural performance inside the carved meeting house includes waiata (singing), poi, a display of Maori weaponry and the haka - a war dance New Zealand is well known for.

Waitangi Treaty Grounds to Paihia Accommodation with Haruru Cabs

You will be transferred from Waitangi Treaty Grounds to your accommodation in Paihia.

Your accommodation: Admirals View Lodge & Motel

Admirals View Lodge & Motel offers a range of quality self-contained accommodation. Relax in this peaceful location in central Paihia and enjoy the sunny terraces with beautiful sea views overlooking the stunning Bay of Islands (from most units). You can easily meander along to the beach, restaurants and cafes from your luxurious accommodation.

Back to top

5 Day Best Of The North Island - Day 2
SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Cape Reinga & Ninety Mile Beach Full Day Tour with Fuller GreatSights - Lunch Included

Journey to the very tip of the North Island and uncover a region of rich Māori tradition along the way on an unforgettable full-day tour. Travel along the sand-swept shore of Ninety Mile Beach in our purpose-built coach and experience sandboarding (weather permitting). In Māori tradition, Cape Reinga or Te Rerenga Wairua is the place where spirits depart on their long journey back to the homeland. Stand at the northernmost point of New Zealand and drink in the panoramic views. As you stand beneath the iconic lighthouse, and watch the Tasman Sea and the mighty Pacific Ocean collide far below, you'll feel the power of this special place. Throughout the day your local driver guide will provide an entertaining and thought-provoking insight into the culture, history and natural wonders of the Far North. Your tour also includes a locally prepared lunch to keep you fuelled throughout the day.

Hole in the Rock Cruise with Fullers GreatSights

Board your cruise and take in the stunning views as you glide out through the islands and along the Rakaumangamanga Peninsula to Cape Brett, where a historic lighthouse keeps watch over and Piercy Island/Motukōkako, or as it is popularly known as the Hole in the Rock. According to Māori legend, local warriors used to paddle through the Hole in the Rock in their canoes before departing for battle. Drops of water from the cave roof above were a good omen. If conditions permit, your skipper will expertly guide the ship through the narrow space. Keep an eye out for common and bottlenose dolphins, whales, and other marine life during your cruise, and have your camera ready as you get up close to the action. Stop off at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island where you have time to relax, take a walk, have a swim, or enjoy a bite to eat and drink from the on-site fully licensed café. The purpose-built catamaran is licensed by DOC (the Department of Conservation) for dolphin viewing and the crew has years of experience locating dolphins in these waters. 

Your accommodation: Admirals View Lodge & Motel

Admirals View Lodge & Motel offers a range of quality self-contained accommodation. Relax in this peaceful location in central Paihia and enjoy the sunny terraces with beautiful sea views overlooking the stunning Bay of Islands (from most units). You can easily meander along to the beach, restaurants and cafes from your luxurious accommodation.

Back to top

5 Day Best Of The North Island - Day 3
Paihia Accommodation to Paihia central/coach stop with Haruru Cabs

You will be transferred from your accommodation to Paihia Central. 

Paihia to Rotorua by Intercity Coach

Your journey will take you past scenic native forests and sub-tropical bush, before crossing the Auckland Harbour Bridge to arrive into the spectacular city scene of Auckland. Continue south into the rich farmland of the Waikato and onto the cultural heart of the North Island and Rotorua City.

Private Transfer - Rotorua Intercity Bus Stop to Rotorua Accommodation with Ready2Roll

You will be collected from Rotorua Bus Stop and transferred to your city accommodation.

Your accommodation: Silver Fern Suites & Spa

Silver Fern Suites & Spa is located just minutes from Rotorua's city centre and is close to popular thermal attractions, cafes, restaurants and golf courses. Suites have a private spa pool or double spa bath for you to unwind and relax.

Back to top

5 Day Best Of The North Island - Day 4
Rotorua Duck Tours City & Lakes Tour

You haven't seen Rotorua until you've seen it from a Duck. Discover Rotorua in the most unique way possible with the City and Lakes Tour. This unique sightseeing adventure takes place on land and water, on-board a WWII amphibious Duck. Unlike any other tour in Rotorua, the duck tour is the best way to see the city and experience the beauty of the surrounding lake district all at once.
Your tour begins right in the heart of the city where you will discover the sights and sounds, and learn all about the rich history and diversity that makes Rotorua such a unique destination. With your conDUCKtor, you will venture out of town to the spectacular lakes district where you will see magnificent views of Mt Tarawera and splashdown into Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) and Lake Okareka.

Te Pā Tū Evening Maori Cultural Experience

New Zealand’s Most Awarded Cultural Attraction, presenting Te Pā Tū. Feast on song, drama, tradition, and divine seasonal kai (cuisine) within the forest Pā (village) blanketed by towering Tawa trees, blazing bonfires, and a forest-formed amphitheatre. Te Pā Tū shares Māori history, traditions, and cultural aspirations across 4-hours of celebration and feasting. These events change with each season of the maramataka, the Māori lunar calendar.

Your accommodation: Silver Fern Suites & Spa

Silver Fern Suites & Spa is located just minutes from Rotorua's city centre and is close to popular thermal attractions, cafes, restaurants and golf courses. Suites have a private spa pool or double spa bath for you to unwind and relax.

Back to top

5 Day Best Of The North Island - Day 5
Rotorua to Auckland via Hobbiton Movie Set

Departing from Rotorua in the morning, this is a wonderful way to get to Auckland and include a magical journey through Middle-earth to the Hobbiton Movie Set from "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" films. On arrival at Shire's Rest you embark on your Hobbiton movie set tour. You will get to see 44 hobbit holes, the Mill and double arch bridge, the party tree and visit the Green Dragon Inn (where a complimentary beer, cider or ginger ale is included). At this stunning location you can take a photo at the door of Bilbo's house, Bag End and look out over the whole of Hobbiton to the hills in the distance.
Following the Hobbiton tour, enjoy lunch at either Shire's Rest or in the marquee beside the Green Dragon Inn. After lunch, there is time for some shopping before you leave to drive north through lush Waikato dairy farms and over the Bombay Hills arriving in Auckland where you will be transferred to your inner-city accommodation.

Back to top

Contact form
Send us an enquiry about this tour

Fields marked * are mandatory

Subscribe to our Regular Newsletter for Inspiring Holiday Ideas
Tour departure list
Departure dates & prices
See all dates & prices for: 5 Day Best Of The North Island
This tour has 447 departure dates.
All prices are in
Go to dates in
Starts Status   Double (2 people sharing) Single occupancy You save  
Oct 11, 2024
(Friday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Oct 12, 2024
(Saturday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Oct 13, 2024
(Sunday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Oct 14, 2024
(Monday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Oct 15, 2024
(Tuesday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Oct 16, 2024
(Wednesday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Oct 17, 2024
(Thursday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Oct 18, 2024
(Friday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Oct 19, 2024
(Saturday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Oct 20, 2024
(Sunday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Oct 21, 2024
(Monday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Oct 22, 2024
(Tuesday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Oct 23, 2024
(Wednesday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Oct 24, 2024
(Thursday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Oct 25, 2024
(Friday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Oct 26, 2024
(Saturday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Oct 27, 2024
(Sunday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Oct 28, 2024
(Monday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Oct 29, 2024
(Tuesday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Oct 30, 2024
(Wednesday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Oct 31, 2024
(Thursday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Nov 1, 2024
(Friday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Nov 2, 2024
(Saturday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Nov 3, 2024
(Sunday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Nov 4, 2024
(Monday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Nov 5, 2024
(Tuesday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Nov 6, 2024
(Wednesday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Nov 7, 2024
(Thursday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Nov 8, 2024
(Friday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Nov 9, 2024
(Saturday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
Nov 10, 2024
(Sunday)
Enquire Book NZD$2,250 NZD$3,070 Enquire Book
All prices are in
Go to dates in
Tour quick quote rework
Get an Instant Quote or Book this Tour
5 Day Best Of The North Island
Step 1:
Step 2: Select number of passengers and room configuration
How many guests are children?
How many guests are children?

Enter phone number to get a call from a travel planning expert within 24 hours

Enter email address to receive your instant quote

Tick this box if you do not wish to receive emails about special offers
No pricing loaded - please choose another date or contact us
Your quote for this tour:
Start date:
End date:
Guests:
Rooms:
Total cost for ALL guests on this tour package is:
NZD$0
or
This quote is based on vehicles to accommodate your party in the vehicle type. We suggest changing the car type or contacting us for the best options.
The package cost above excludes rental vehicle hire as you are requesting a price for a vehicle outside of our designated season. Please reach out direct for rental vehicle rates.

 

NOTE: Quotes are subject to availability of specific accommodation and other inclusions. Our NZ touring experts will be in touch with you regarding this. Costs quoted in currencies other than New Zealand dollars (NZ$) are based on todays exchange rate and is subject to change.Terms and Conditions apply

Remember - we can create this itinerary with any style of accommodation or customise to suit your interests and timeframe. Just contact us here.

Why book with New Zealand Coach Tours?

At NZ Coach Tours we choose only the best coach tours out there. We have up to date knowledge and experience, so we can give you the best advice on which tour is right for you. We can combine tours, maybe one tour that offers the best in the North Island and one that offers something different for the South Island. Our range of independent tours depart daily and can be custom designed to suit you perfectly. We have loads of accommodation options, activity ideas, and sell a beautiful destination that is guaranteed to blow you away!
Put simply - we have something for everyone and we are confident you will not be left disappointed.

In summary

  • We specialise in New Zealand. Nothing else. 100% New Zealand.
  • You get the best price for your tour and we guarantee it.
  • Our experienced team is based right here in New Zealand, and we're ready to help you with every step of your personalised journey.
  • We have the first-hand experience of the tours we sell.
  • We have quality, long standing relationships with many touring partners, accommodation and activity suppliers
  • Legendary dedication to service excellence.
  • Secure payment options for your peace of mind.
  • Operating since 2004 and our guests love us.
  • Because your visit to New Zealand deserves to be the best.
  • We represent only the best-escorted coach touring brands — Grand Pacific Tours, Grand Pacific Ultimate Small Group Tours, Intrepid Travel and AAT Kings.
  • Talk to one of our team today to find and book the New Zealand coach tour that's right for you.