Bay of Islands and the Far North

Pick up your rental car from Auckland Airport and start your drive to the Bay of Islands.
Enjoy some stops along the way, you may take the more scenic detour via Mangawhai, you last stop is should be in Kawakawa at the Hundertwasser public toilets.
Check-in at your lodge and explore the surroundings. We suggest a Mirimiri massage after your drive and before you enjoy a 3 course dinner with a glass of wine.

After your breakfast take the ferry to Russell and board your half-day Bay of Island cruise. Cruise through the islands all the way to Cape Brett Lighthouse, enjoy the stunning views and the trip through the 'Hole in the Rock' . With a bit of luck you will spot dolphins in their natural environment. Spend some time relaxing on Urupukapuka island before heading back to Russell. Afternoon at your own leisure, we suggest you explore the small town of Russell, the first European settlement in New Zealand. Take a walk on some of the many walking trails. Have dinner at one of the lovely restaurants in Russell.

Today enjoy your day at your own leisure. After breakfast we suggest you drive a little further North and vist Kerikeri. You may want to stop at a vineyard for some wine-tasting and a tasty lunch. Drive to Waitangi and stop at the Haruru Falls before hand then we suggest visit the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds and learn more about the New Zealand history and enjoy a Cultural Performance and maybe even a traditional Hāngi (dinner).
Enjoy the evening at your own leisure, dinner is not included, but you may want to try out one of the many excellent restaurants in Pahia.

After breakfast get ready to drive further North. Fancy a walk, then we suggest head to Puketi Kauri Forest for a little detour. You will be hungry after that and arrive in Mangonui for lunch at the famous 'Fish Shop' the best place to try some local 'fish & chips'. From here it is less then half an hour until you arrive at your luxury estate. Settle into your lodge room and start exploring the stunning surroundings. You may have time for a golf or fancy from local wine tasting. Enjoy a 3 course dinner at the Estate tonight.

Today is a day at your own leisure. We suggest after breakfast you drive to Cape Reinga, the end of SH1, where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. Make sure you take a picnic, as there are not many shops on the way. Kaitaia is a good place to stop for supplies. The drive will take you around 2 hours, you definitely want to stop on the way. For example; Rarawa Beach, where some of the finest, whitest sand awaits you. The sea can be a bit rough, but even a walk along the white, silica sandy beach is wonderful. Stop along the 90 Mile beach, which is officially a highway but only suitable for 4WD vehicles and on specific times. Near the top of the North Island, take a detour to the Paki Paki sand dunes. Sand boards can be hired there – it’s good fun! At Cape Reinga you can also enjoy some of the shorter walking trails.

After breakfast make the most of your day and explore Matai Bay, Puheke Beach or play a game of Golf at the 18-hole champion-standard golf course. The golf course is designed for players of all abilities. It offers some of the longest par 5's (569m) to some of the shortest par 3's (113m) over water in New Zealand. Spectacular views of the golf course, wetlands, Northland beaches and ocean beyond are visible from the clubhouse. Don't forget to visit the Estate Winery for some wine tasting. The breathtaking views pair beautifully with the award winning wines.

After breakfast it is time to leave the pristine and picturesque Karikari Peninsula. You may wish to take the longer drive via the Kauri Coast (SH 12) and stop at the Waipua Forest to admire the biggest Kauri tree in the country.
On arrival in Auckland please return your rental car.