Inspiring Journeys 11 Day The Endless Shores

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.

Free Day to Explore Wellington

Today is free for you to experience Wellington. Perhaps join a tour of New Zealand's Parliament buildings and the "Beehive" or take a ride on Wellington's famous cable car from the central business district up to the Kelburn lookout for stunning views of the city. You may want to experience the world of movie special effects with a tour to the Weta Cave - home of the creative wizards behind the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Or learn about New Zealand's history and culture with a visit to Te Papa, Museum of New Zealand. Your Travel Director will assist you in booking your chosen experiences. This evening why not venture down to Courtenay Place or Cuba Street and dine at one of Wellington's tucked away bars or quirky cafes.

Wellington to Hawke's Bay

Travel through the fertile farming land of Wairarapa on to Napier in Hawke's Bay. Enjoy time to relax after the day's adventures before joining your journey director for dinner at your hotel.

Hawke's Bay

Join a local guide for a city tour. You'll see several types of Art Deco architecture, the style in which Napier was rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1931. This evening, enjoy wine-tasting and dinner at one of the region's renowned wineries.

Hawke's Bay to Rotorua

Travel past Lake Taupo and visit spectacular Huka Falls before you arrive in Rotorua. Visit Whakarewarewa Living village for insights into the lives of the Maori community and their special bond with this ancient land. This evening, enjoy a Maori Hangi feast and concert at Tamaki Maori Marae.

Explore Rotorua

Your first stop today is Rotorua's natural splendour Rainbow Springs Nature Park.  Next up, ascending to the Redwoods Treewalk, enjoy an elevated view of these redwood giants from a series of 23 suspension bridges linking the majestic trees, a completely unique perspective.

Rotorua to Auckland

Begin your day with a dazzling show during an exclusive five-star Eco Glowworm experience. Later in Auckland, get your bearings during a city tour, then spend the rest of the day at leisure to explore.

Auckland to the Bay of Islands

This morning depart Auckland City and travel north over the Harbour Bridge past the sprawling suburbs of the North Shore of Auckland. Then continue to the Waipoua Forest, home to the largest Kauri tree in existence, Tane Mahuta (over 2,000 years old). You'll take a break before a Maori guide walks you through the native bush and explains the history and legend behind the mighty Kauri. Then head to your waterfront resort in the heart of the Bay of Islands and tonight its dinner at the resort.

Bay of Islands Sights

This morning you'll take a ferry across the harbour to historic Russell and enjoy a guided tour of the first European settlement in New Zealand. A local guide will also take you on a walking tour of the town. Later, why not visit the historic Waitangi Treaty Reserve, where New Zealand's founding document, the Treaty of Waitangi, was signed. As you stroll through the reserve, you will see highlights such as the Waka - Maori War Canoe and an intricately carved Marae or Meeting House. (Optional Experience - own expense). Tonight, you are free to dine as you wish.

Bay of Islands to Auckland

This morning experience spectacular scenery as you cruise through game fishing waters to Cape Brett and, weather permitting, through the famous "Hole in the Rock" formation. The return cruise to Paihia meanders through picturesque islands - see deserted sandy beaches and secluded bays and keep your eyes peeled for the marine life. Later, you'll have some free time in Paihia before you travel back to Auckland. Celebrate tonight with new-found friends at a farewell dinner.

Farewell From Auckland and Transfer to Airport

Say farewell to your fellow travellers as your Inspiring Journey comes to an end and you'll be transferred to Auckland Airport for your onward flight.