Days 1 – 4: UK – Auckland
Your journey begins with an overnight flight to New Zealand, arriving on Day 3. For your free day in Auckland, explore the vibrant Viaduct Harbour by boat, or escape to one of the idyllic Hauraki Gulf Islands.
Only a 25-minute ferry ride from the city is Rangitoto Island, a volcanic icon of Auckland with panoramic views and the country’s largest pōhutukawa forest. Slightly further afield is the subtropical, bohemian island of Waiheke, renowned for its food, wine and art. Alternatively, enjoy an 80-minute cruise to the wildlife reserve on the Tikapa Moana Island for a wander through native flora and fauna.
On Day 4, meet your fellow travellers and learn more about the exciting trip ahead from your Tour Hosts with an included Welcome Dinner.
Days 5 – 6: Hot Water Beach
Distance: 124 km / 78 miles
Head southeast to Thames, the gateway to the Coromandel Peninsula, and visit the charming historical museum in Thames which showcases its gold-mining past. Continue onto Hot Water Beach for a two-night stay. The Coromandel is renowned for its pristine white sand beaches, native rainforests and laid-back vibe. On a clear night, enjoy the galaxies of stars which can be clearly seen due to the low population and minimal light pollution.
On Day 6, join an included full day tour where experienced local guides will provide an insight into local history, geology and wildlife. Visit an historic gold mine cave which is now a home to glowworms. After your included lunch, you will see an old Maori Pa (village), Cathedral Cove and (tide permitting) the infamous Hot Water Beach.
Days 7 – 8: Rotorua
Distance: 203 km / 126 miles
Continue southwards towards Tauranga and Mount Maunganui in the Bay of Penty. Along the way, stop at Waihī which is home to the richest gold mine in New Zealand and is a working mine today. The Goldfields vintage railway runs between Waihī and Waikino, where you will see relics from the early gold-rush days. Mount Maunganui’s waterfront is the ideal stop for lunch or an ice-cream whilst enjoying a coastal view. Heading inland to Rotorua, it is an hour’s drive to the town known for its geothermal attractions.
On Day 8, there will be a transfer to take you to an included cultural Māori evening experience. Within the forest-formed amphitheatre, stories are shared through haka and song, plus a 3-course meal of a traditional hangi and other Māori-fusion dishes are provided.
Days 9 -10: Napier
Distance: 219km / 136 miles
Travel to Napier and the Hawke’s Bay region taking in scenic countryside and vineyards as you drive. Take time to stop at the mesmerising Huka Falls near Lake Taupō where the white water of the Waikato River surges through a narrow gorge. Once in Napier, you will see iconic Art deco architecture which arose after the city’s devastating earthquake during 1931.
On Day 10, an included 4WD guided safari will take you to the picturesque Cape Kidnappers – an extraordinary sandstone headland home to the largest and most accessible gannet colony in the world. This 13-hectare reserve includes the Saddle and Black Reef gannet colonies.
Days 11 – 12: Paekakariki, Kāpiti Coast
Distance: 274km / 170 miles
Today, traverse the North Island to the eastern side on the Kāpiti Coast with forty kilometres of dramatic cliffs and coastline. Your stay for two nights is in a small village nestled between the sea and hills. It is seen as the district’s creative hub where many artists, musicians and actors make their home.
On Day 12, enjoy a 20-minute ferry ride to the protected Kapiti Island Marine reserve where an experienced nature guide will talk about the native flora and fauna on a one hour guided walk. This included tour brings you closer to New Zealand’s most beautiful and endangered birds.
Days 13 – 14: Wellington
Distance: 44km / 28 miles
It is a short drive to the country’s capital, Wellington, situated at the southern tip of the North Island. Discover the city on foot, taking in the national museum of Te Papa and Hannahs Laneway, a gourmet heaven. Alternatively, take a behind-the-scenes tour at the Weta Workshop for a glimpse of the film industry’s innovations, costumes and movie effects.
On Day 14, embark on an included night tour at the Zealandia Eco-sanctuary which will provide an opportunity to hear the sounds of the native forest’s birdlife, such as a tuatara, kākā (parrots), and if you’re lucky, a Kiwi!
Days 15 - 16: Kaikoura
Distance: 156km / 97 miles
The pleasurable sailing to the South Island across the Cook strait will take you into the Marlborough Sounds, arriving at the small town of Picton. Continue south along the east coast towards Kaikoura, driving through the Marlborough Wine Region, which is all about world-famous Sauvignon Blanc and delicious fresh seafood.
On Day 16, board a catamaran for the opportunity to see the Giant Sperm Whale on this included half-day tour. You may also encounter New Zealand fur seals, Dusky Dolphins and other birdlife during the sailing.
Day 17: Ashburton
Distance: 266km / 165 miles
Bypassing Christchurch, your next stop is the commercial centre for the local farming district and mid Canterbury. The large town of Ashburton sits between the Rakaia and Rangitata rivers and is popular for salmon and trout fishing.
Ashburton offers six museums, including a museum for aviation, cars and vintage railways. There are also local craft and art galleries to peruse and wander through.
Day 18: Twizel
Distance: 195km / 122 miles
Driving inland towards the stunning Mackenzie region, there will be the chance to stop at the pretty town of Lake Tekapo for those picture-perfect views. Located in the heart of the South Island, the lake’s turquoise waters surrounded by the majestic mountains offers a fantastic photo opportunity. Continue onto Twizel for your overnight stay. Located in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky reserve, Twizel offers some of the clearest darkest skies in the World.
On Day 18, join an included 75-minute guided star-gazing tour and learn from passionate, knowledgeable guides who will help you uncover the stories behind the stars and constellations.
Days 19 - 20: Dunedin
Distance: 259km / 160 miles
Due to the previous late night’s stargazing, it will be a later start before getting on the road. The journey to Dunedin takes you via the village of Moeraki, famous for its mysterious spherical boulders formed 60 million years ago. Arriving in the city of Dunedin, check into your campground for a relaxing evening ahead of next day’s tour.
On Day 18, visit the world’s only mainland breeding colony of the magnificent Royal Albatross. Here you will have the opportunity to witness the social and family life of the colony on this included one hour guided tour.
Day 21: Oamaru
Distance: 117km / 73 miles
Heading northwards, there is the option to take State Highway 88 to spend some time at the Orokonui Eco Sanctuary. This 307-hectare biodiverse sanctuary has self-guided walking tracks which allow visitors to explore and learn more about threatened habitats and species.
Oamaru is the largest town in the Waitaki District and has a rich history with Victorian heritage. Stroll through the town to see the 19th century architecture, taking in the Victorian Precinct where you will find traditional crafts, shops and galleries.
On Day 19, an evening’s viewing of the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony is included in your tour. With premium seating, you can watch the world’s smallest penguin in their nesting burrows with a guide providing live commentary. During summertime, arrival numbers can reach to over 200 penguins.
Day 22: Akaroa
Distance: 299km / 186 miles
Continuing northbound, tonight’s stay is at the charming French, seaside town of Akaroa which will have you captivated with its magnificent harbour, historic buildings and fine cuisine. Wander down the town’s two main streets, Rue Lavaud or Rue Jolie and enjoy a delicious meal at one of the bistros.
Days 23 – 24: Christchurch
Distance: 87km / 54 miles
Your last leg on the road is a shorter drive to Christchurch to drop your motorhome at the depot. Transfer to your hotel for the final two nights of the tour. There are plenty of activities to show off the city’s old-English charm – stroll through the botanical gardens or relax on a punt on the River Avon.
On Day 24, reminisce about all the wonderful times shared on your road trip during a farewell dinner on your final night of the tour.
Days 25 – 26: Christchurch – UK
Your holiday concludes with a comfortable transfer to the airport for your overnight flight home, carrying with you cherished memories of your trip.
The holidays to New Zealand are provided by Alan Rogers Travel Ltd, a subsidiary of the Caravan and Motorhome Club. ATOL No.11309
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