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16 Day East & West coast North Island

Auckland Auckland
Duration: 16 Days
Scale: 1 - 10 people
From: Auckland
To: Auckland
Categories: Self Drive Tours
Transportations: Car

16 Day East & West Coast North Island Self Drive Tour

Experience the east & west coast of the North Island's regions. From the purest white sandy beaches in the Coromandel to the remoteness of the East Cape and the black sandy beaches of Ragla , on this journey you will marvel at the coastal scenery.


Highlights 

Cathedral Cove Kayaking

Geothermals Wai-O-Tapu

Maori Village Cultural Experience

Raglan Beaches /Surf

Experience with the dolphins

 

 

 

Regions Visited

 

 

Terms and Conditions

Prices are based on twin share occupancy in a 4 star rated hotel double room, and are subject to availability. If anything comes back unavailable, we will endeavor to find you a suitable alternative. 

Click here for the full

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  • Day 1 : Auckland

    Welcome to Auckland and New Zealand. On arrival you will be picked up at the airport and transferred to your first night’s accommodation. Or if you’ve decided to pick up your rental vehicle immediately, you pick up your vehicle at the airport and drive to your accommodation.

    Your detailed tour information pack will be given to you once you arrive at your accommodation.

    You’ll most likely be pretty tired from a long flight, so take the rest of the day to relax and explore the inner city. The city centre of Auckland is not too big, so you can easily walk around. Visit the Skytower to take in great views of the city, and stroll around the waterfront with its many nice bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a great meal.

    Accommodation : Millennium Auckland

  • Day 2 : Auckland - Coromandel

    Today, your destination will be the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula with its secluded bays, white sandy beaches, and spectacular but rugged mountainous interiour. Follow the Hauraki Trail until you arrive in Thames. Take a side trip to the Valley, and keep driving north along the waterfront until you reach Coromandel town, a town full of history from New Zealand's early gold mining and logging days. Over the hill you reach the Coromandel's East Coast and the coastal views along this drive are amazing. Stop at the famous Hot Water Beach to dig your own spa at low tide, and walk down to Cathedral Cove.

    Between Coromandel Town and Whitianga we recommend you visit New Chums beach, which was voted one of the best 10 beaches in the world!

    Accommodation : Anchor Lodge

    Driving distance : 167 km - Driving time : 2 hours 44 minutes

  • Day 3 : Coromandel

    We've organized an amazing kayaking trip to Cathedral Cove this morning, no doubt one of the best in the country. This trip will show you stretches of coast line no other travellers get to see. After your kayaking experience your journey continues further south, and you'll pass a number of pretty cool beach towns on the way such as Tairua and Whangamata, where you will spend the night.

    Activity : Cathedral Cove Kayaking 

    Accommodation : Anchor Lodge

     

  • Day 4 : Coromandel Mount Maunganui

    Today your journey takes you to Mount Maunganui or simply "The Mount" as it's called by the locals. The Mount is a relaxed beach town that occupies a peninsula at the southern end of Tauranga Harbour. At the very tip of the peninsula is a distinctive peak - Mauao - which rises to 230 metres above sea level. There's a choice of tracks leading to the summit, some more challenging than others. Huge views of the harbour, beach and Pacific Ocean make the effort totally worthwhile. 

     

    Accommodation : Ocean Side Resort & Twin Tower

    Driving distance : 174  km  - Driving time : 2 hours 49 mins 

     

  • Day 5 : Mount Maunganui -Hick's Bay

    Your drive today takes you to Hick's Bay. Hicks Bay is a small farming settlement on the northern coast of the Gisborne District and is located 44 kilometres east of Whangaparaoa. Hicks Bay is broken up into two smaller bays, Onepoto Beach (or Horse Shoe Bay) to the south and Long Beach to the north. Onepoto Beach is the smaller of the two being only 400 metres in length while Long Beach is 2900 metres in length. Onepoto Beach is a picturesque beach. It is accessed via Onepoto road.

    Accommodation : Puriri B&B

    Driving distance : 287 km   - Driving time : 3 hours 55 mins 

     

  • Day 6 : Hick's Bay - Gisborne

    It's not such a far journey to Gisborne today. As you head out of the wilderness, and drive to the coast stop at the Mahia Peninsula, with its sandy coves, rocky bays and long expanses of surf coast. From there it's only a short drive to Gisborne. Gisborne is the first city in the world to see the sunrise, and it has a reputation for great food, wine and surf beaches.

    Accommodation : Portside Hotel- Heritage

    Driving distance : 180 km  - Driving time : 2 hour 41 mins

     

  • Day 7 : Gisborne - Napier

    Your destination today is Napier. This historic art deco city is located in the heart of New Zealand’s oldest wine-making region, Hawke’s Bay. Napier's city centre has the feeling of a time capsule - the seamless line of 1930s architecture is quite extraordinary. One of the ways to enjoy the streetscape is on a self-guided walk - ask for a map at the information centre or at the Art Deco Trust. 

    Accommodation : Scenic Hotel

    Activity : Half Day Wine Tour

    Driving distance : 214 km  - Driving time : 3 hour 15 mins

     

  • Day 8 : Napier - Taupo

    Today you are going to Taupo, a must see are the impressive Huka Falls. This is where the Waikato River, New Zealand's longest river, enters a shallow ravine of hard volcanic rock. The resulting sight is nothing but spectacular. More than 220,000 liters of water per second rushes by.

    A thrilling jetboat ride up to the base of the Huka Falls is not only an exciting way to see the falls, but you'll also get the best views.

    Accommodation : Millennium Taupo

    Activity : Huka Falls Jet

    Driving distance : 141 km  - Driving time : 1 hour 58 mins

     

  • Day 9 : Taupo - Rotorua

    Today in the morning before going to Rotorua,you will do the Skydiving of 15.000 FT (the highest in NZ),and after that you will start your journey to "Rotovegas" on the way you will make a stop to see the geothermal of Wai-O-Tapu. Rotorua is also nicknamed Roto Vegas by Kiwis for the amount of attractions it has. In the evening you will enjoy the Maori Cultural Experience.

    Accommodation : Millennium Rotorua

    Activity : Skydiving 15.000 fT. Taupo

    Activity: Maori Village Cultural Experience

    Activity : Wai- O - Tapu

    Driving distance : 81.7 km  - Driving time : 1 hour 5 mins

     

  • Day 10 : Rotorua- Waitomo

    This morning you'll head  the lush farmlands of the Waikato, where you'll be in for a fun and exciting adventure in the famous Waitomo caves, the Waitomo Adventures Lost World Window  

    Accommodation : Waitomo Caves Hotel

    Activity : Waitomo Caves "Lost World 4 Hours"

    Driving distance : 81.7 km  - Driving time : 1 hour 49 mins

     

  • Day 11 : Waitomo - Raglan

    Today you will go to one of the surf spots in the world to Raglan. Raglan is a coastal town in the Waikato region of New Zealand’s North Island. It’s known for black-sand Ngarunui Beach and the long surf break at Manu Bay. Local history exhibits at the Raglan & District Museum include apothecary items and surfing memorabilia.

    Accommodation : Solscape

    Driving distance : 91.5 km  - Driving time : 1 hour 21 mins

     

  • Day 12 : Raglan - Auckland

    Your next stop will be Auckland,where you will spend one night,so the next day in the morning you will drive to Bay of Islands. 

    Accommodation : Millennium Auckland

    Driving distance : 159 km  - Driving time : 1 hour 55 mins

     

  • Day 13 : Auckland - Bay of Islands

    You'll cross the harbour bridge going north. Northland is a region with a abundance of marine life, subtropical climate and pristine beaches, but is also a region with historical significance.

    About half way between Whangarei and Paihia, at Whakapara,  we recommend you take the turn off for Helena Bay/Whangaruru. The journey to Paihia will be a little bit longer as the road winds its way along the coastline, but this stretch of coastline is absolutely stunning as you approach the Bay of Islands. 

    Paihia will be your base to explore the Bay of Islands. Upon your arrival, take the afternoon to relax and explore the seaside town, make the short trip to the picturesque town of Russell, or visit the nearby Waitangi Treaty grounds.

    Accommodation : Scenic Hotel Paihia

    Driving distance : 227 km  - Driving time : 3 hour 4 mins

     

  • Day 14 : Bay of Islands

    On the second day up north, you'll travel to the very top of New Zealand, Cape Reinga (Te Rerenga Wairua). Uncover the wild beauty of this vast and untouched region that is rich in Māori culture and tradition. Enjoy spectacular panoramic views, visit the iconic light house, and see the point where the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean come crashing together. Ninety Mile Beach is another highlight of the tour, so make sure you stop along the way.

    Accommodation : Scenic Hotel Paihia

     

  • Day 15 : Bay of Islands - Auckland

    Before your journey back to Auckland, you will join a Hole in the Rock cruise in the morning with dolphin viewing. You'll board the Dolphin Seeker, a purpose built catamaran licensed by the Department of Conservation for dolphin and whale viewing. Enjoy the large outdoor viewing decks as you cruise past the islands of the Bay. Keep a look out for common and bottlenose dolphins, whales and other marine life as our experienced local skippers get you up close to the action. Cruise past the Cape Brett Lighthouse, before arriving at the majestic Hole in the Rock. Admire the rock walls towering above you as the skipper navigates right through the narrow space (conditions permitting) before heading back into the inner islands of the Bay.

    Accommodation : Millennium Auckland

    Activity : Hole in the Rock Cruise

    Driving distance : 227 km  - Driving time : 3 hour 4 mins

     

  • Day 16 : Auckland -Airport

    Today is your last morning in New Zealand,after you check out from the hotel you will have to return your rental car to teh depot at the airport. Hope to see you soon again,and have a safe flight home !

     

 

ENQUIRE NOW HERE
From / per person

NZD4,569.00

Booking
Total:
NZD4,569.00
Important information
  • Complimentary airport transfers
  • Detailed tour pack upon arrival ot accommodation.
  • 16 day car rental with unlimited daily kilometers
  • Standard insurance with zero excess reduction option.
  • 15 Nights Accommodation including breakfast.
  • Cathedral Cove Kayaking.
  • Huka Falls Jet.
  • Skydive.
  • Wai -O-Tapu.
  • Maori Cultural Night.
  • Waitomo Caves "Lost world 4 hours".
  • Hole in the Rock Cruise.

  • Where the date of cancellation is a date 45 days or more before the start of the tour, the cancellation fee will be equivalent to the deposit paid
  • Where the date of cancellation is a date 30 to 45 days before the start of the tour the cancellation fee shall be 25% of the contract price
  • Where the date of cancellation is a date 7 to 30 days before the start of the tour the cancellation fee shall be 50% of the contract price
  • Where the date of cancellation is a date 7 days or less before the start of the tour the cancellation fee shall be 100% of the contract price

Start planning and create your own custom New Zealand itinerary here:

Taranaki

 

 

Taranaki might be a slightly less known region in New Zealand, unless you're a keen surfer or windsurfer. The landscape is dominated by the perfectly shaped volcanic cone which is Mt Taranaki, or Mt Egmont. At 2500m not only does it entirely dominate the landscape, but it also creates its own climate. On any given day, the winds may be reaching gale force on one side of the mountain, while on the other side you may be relaxing on the beach without a sigh of wind, such is the impact of the mountain.

In winter you may ski down the mountain in the morning, and in summer there are a number of excellent hiking opportunities, including hikes to the summit or right around the mountain.

Surf Highway 45 offers word class surf and windsurfing conditions and the black iron sandy beaches are wild and beautiful and aplenty.

 

Marlborough

 

When travelling from the North Island to the South Island on the Interislander ferry, the sheltered waterways of the Marlborough Sounds are the first sight. Picton is the destination port, and a good base to go walking, fishing, sailing, kayaking and exploring the many secluded bays in the Sounds. 

The Marlborough region is internationally recognized for its world class wine, most notably its Sauvignon Blanc, and there are many different ways to sample these wines as their are many wineries offering excellent wine tours. By bike, or by luxury old timer cars, the creativity with which these tours are organized is brilliant. The seafood in this region is also sumptuous, great to combine with a glass of the local wines.

Those put off by the large crowds on the Abel Tasman Track will love the Queen Charlotte Track. The beaches are a little less exquisite, but the coastal scenery is still stunning and there are many accommodation options aolong the track.

Kaikoura

 

Kaikoura is a unique place by the sea where marine wildlife lives in abundance, against the backdrop of the impressive Kaikoura mountain ranges. It is well known for its range of eco-tourism activities and getting up close with the main inhabitant along its shores, the giant Sperm Whale.

Whale watching in Kaikoura is simply a must-do as you're guaranteed to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, and along the way you're most likely to see a pod of bottlenose or duksy dolphins play in the water, be impressed by the take-off and water landing of the Royal Albatross, and see a bunch of sea lions lazing about on a rock, suc is the diversity.

The ocean here also provides some spectacular seafood, and a stay in Kaikoura may not go by without having tried the crayfish


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Millenniumm Queenstown

 Image result for millennium queenstown

Right in the heart of the action, Millennium Hotel Queenstown is just minutes from Queenstown central shopping, entertainment and outdoor activities such as bungy jumping, white water rafting and jet boating. The popular ski destinations of Coronet Peak, Remakables, and Cardrona are also close by. 

This luxury hotel also offers accessible rooms for special needs guests with their friendly staff on hand to assist you anytime. Most of this accommodation also offers scenic views of Queenstown city and mountains, providing the perfect backdrop to your trip. Millennium Hotel Queenstown is a 4-star plus and Enviro-Gold Qualmark rated hotel, with an Environmental Sustainability Plan for the future. 

Citylife Wellington (Heritage)

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Wellington prides itself on being not only the country’s capital, but also its cultural capital – and there’s no better place to soak up the atmosphere than CityLife Wellington, with hotel accommodation located right in the heart of the city. Situated on Lambton Quay, you’ll find the best shopping, tourist attractions and cultural landmarks all within easy walking distance.

When you want a breather, the hotel offers plenty of ways to make the most of your downtime. Enjoy a hotel experience unlike other Wellington hotels.

Whether you’re seeking Wellington accommodation for work, rest or play, our spacious rooms offer you the comforts of home - with the added benefits of housekeeping and room service.

Offering a range of one and two bedroom serviced apartments, After an exciting day of sightseeing or business, you can now enjoy an even better night's sleep with extra comfy beds in all rooms.

 

Rutherford Nelson (Heritage)

 Image result for rutherford nelson a heritage hotel

Whether you’re visiting our incredible region for business or pleasure, Rutherford Hotel Nelson is the obvious choice for luxury accommodation in Nelson.

Rutherford Hotel Nelson is Nelson’s only 24-hour fully-serviced hotel, offering luxurious rooms and suites – ideal for corporate travelers, families and conference delegates. The central location means Nelson’s many galleries and City attractions are just a stone’s throw away. All rooms have a view of the harbour, city, historic South Street or Nelson’s beautiful cathedral.

The stylish accommodation will suit anyone looking for a great place to stay in Nelson, whether you’re here on holiday, in town for a wedding or visiting Nelson for a conference. 

 

Distinction Hotel Lake Te Anau

 

Get away from it all, and escape into the serene surroundings of Distinction Luxmore Hotel, Lake Te Anau before heading out to explore the world-famous beauty of Fiordland including Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. With its range of modern hotel accommodation options, 2 on-site restaurants, FREE unlimited WiFi, complimentary guest car parking and an excellent standard of service, the team at Distinction Luxmore Hotel will make your stay in Te Anau comfortable and enjoyable.
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Conveniently located in the heart of Te Anau's town shopping centre and a short stroll from Lake Te Anau, the South Island's largest lake and launching pad for many water based activities. The 180 room Distinction Luxmore Hotel offers guests a wide range of modern, refurbished hotel accommodation.

Alpine Resort Wanaka (Distinction)

 Image result for alpine resort wanaka


Distinction Wanaka Alpine Resort is nestled in a quiet Lake Wanaka location and guests can enjoy access to the resort facilities whilst staying in the serviced apartments. The stylish, self-contained, serviced apartments each provide a high level of personal comfort and convenience, perfect for all seasons.

They offer a fully equipped kitchen, televisions with 50+ channels of SKY channels, free WiFi, under-floor heating in the bathrooms, private & secure car garages, perfect for storing additional equipment such as skis and bikes. Enquire about daily, weekly and longer term servicing options..

Scenic Hotel Napier

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We invite you to enjoy quality 4-star hotel accommodation of an international standard. From the moment you step into our spacious, light-filled lobby, you will experience our commitment to quality and customer service. If you fancy waking up to serene ocean views, Scenic Hotel Te Pania is the perfect place to start your day in Hawke’s Bay. Simply leave the curtains open, roll over in bed, and soak it all in. 

Hawke's Bay is one of the first places in the world to see the light each day, with Napier hotel enjoying a premium waterfront location on Napier's Marine Parade. The hotel’s slender curved form echoes the shape of the bay and guests are treated to sweeping views out over the water. A fresh, contemporary style hotel, Scenic Hotel Te Pania is just a short stroll from Napier’s main art deco style street and is located in close proximity to many of Napier's attractions..

 

Scenic Franz Josef

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In the heart of the village and edge of the Westland World Heritage Park, the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier is only a breath away from the spectacular Franz Josef Glacier. 

This hotel offers everything you need to be able to explore this dramatic region in style and comfort. With an exceptional restaurant, serving hearty, West Coast fare, and the Moa Bar with its open fireplace, you are never without choice. Plus, with the private hot pools and our Amaia Luxury Spa close by, you can enjoy time out to rejuvenate after a day taking in the many walking tracks and other outdoor pursuits. 

Free WiFi is available throughout the hotel, plus a guest information and booking service will ensure that you can make the most of every minute you spend in the Westland region.

 

Funyaks + Jet Boat

  Image result for funyak + jet boat queenstown

This day in and around Queenstown takes you deep into "Paradise", near Glenorchy in Mt Aspiring National Park.

An unmissable experience with the exhilaration of a wilderness jet boat ride combined with a leisurely downstream float on easy to use Funyaks (inflatable kayaks) awaits you. This trip is a must-do to explore the truly unique Dart River. Your amazing journey begins with an exhilarating jet boat ride up the Dart River deep into the heart of the world-renowned Mt Aspiring National Park. From here you’ll then travel back down river at your own pace in our unique Funyaks exploring pristine waters as they flow from the Southern Alps to Lake Wakatipu, hidden side streams with amazing rock pools and dramatic chasms.
Just when you think your Funyaks adventure is over, you will enjoy a gourmet buffet lunch before heading via 4 wheel drive coach to locations used in the movies to illustrate Middle Earth from ‘Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’.

Peppers Bluewater Resort - Lake Tekapo

 Image result for peppers bluewater resort

Near the shores of Lake Tekapo, in the heart of Mackenzie Country in New Zealand’s central South Island, is Peppers Bluewater Resort. Overlooking Lake Tekapo this resort is located in an intensely beautiful part of the world.

Peppers Bluewater Resort is set amongst the purest natural landscape. Romantic and secluded, your accommodation in Lake Tekapo reflects the beautiful landscape surrounding you.

You can explore the natural wonders of Mount Cook and the Mackenzie region from here. Marvel at an International Dark Sky Reserve with millions of stars. Ride horses through the mountains, catch a scenic flight to Franz Josef glacier, go skiing, or immerse yourself in the Tekapo Springs Day Spa and Hot Pools.

Glacial Day Spa

Experience total relaxation and rejuvenation at the day spa with a full range of treatments designed to enhance and maintain your health and beauty. Each of the 4 therapy rooms features beautiful views of the hot pools, Lake Tekapo and the mountain ranges. 

Treat yourself to the healing benefits of massage in the beautiful, calm space of our Glacial Day Spa. Our expert staff are skilled in a wide range of treatments designed to revitalise the body and recharge the mind.

Massage has many benefits which include a boosted immune system, reduced pain and inflammation, improved sleep, increased flexibility and range of motion as well as enhanced wellbeing by reducing anxiety, stress and depression.

Waikato

The Waikato is the fourth largest region in New Zealand, covering 25,000 square kilometres. It stretches from the Bombay Hills and Port Waikato in the north down to the Kaimai Ranges and Mt Ruapehu in the south, and from Mokau on the west coast across to the Coromandel Peninsula in the east. The region has 1,138 km of coastline.

Punakaiki

Punakaiki is a small community on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand, between Westport and Greymouth. The community lies on the edge of the Paparoa National Park. The Pancake Rocks are a very popular tourist destination at Dolomite Point south of the main village.