Upper North Island Itineraries

Auckland is the City of Sails. Home of the Americas cup and some of the most exciting sailing racing you will ever see. New Zealand's largest city is vibrant, multi-cultural and is set between two harbours. The Sky Tower, Kelly Tarltons Underwater World and much more waits in this never sleeping city. A short drive across the Harbour Bridge or a 10-minute ferry ride away from Auckland City is North shore. Explore boutique shops and markets, dine at award winning cafes or stroll through beautiful parks. Manukau City is one of the most multicultural population centres in the country. Discover and appealing blend of urban and rural spaces.
Head to the Coromandel, Whitianga and the Bay of Plenty. A region of variety and a unique blend of picturesque coastline white sand beaches, rainforest and seaside villages. Fish, swim snorkel or dive the Bay.

Follow the Pacific Highway to Whakatane and Whakaari (White Island). Geothermal steam vents fill the air and the ground is covered with vivid sulphur yellows and whites. The warm water make this an ideal place to relax or dive and snorkel with the dolphins. The East Cape has magnificent scenery and views all the way of the Pacific Ocean to Gisborne. Maori culture is strongly evident and it's a region rich in history. Visit Tauranga and Mt Manganui, the major landmark of the Tauranga region. Climb one of the tracks to the summit of for great views of the ocean and city.

Urewa National Park is breathtakingly beautiful and will take you to Rotorua. A city renowned for both its' geothermal activity, geysers, bubbling mud pools and high quality cultural experiences. Performances and activities make it easy to taste and experience Maori culture. Abseil the caves at Waitomo and explore a lost world. Rotorua is a rich blend of European and Maori cultures and an adventurers' playground.
On the way back to Auckland, stop off for a surf at Raglan, Hamilton. The left-hand surf-break on black sand and glow worm caves are natural features of the region. Hamilton city is young, passionate and energetic.
From Auckland journey north and travel the Twin Coast Discovery Highway. The Tasman Sea is on the West side, The Pacific Ocean on the East. This circular touring route from Auckland encompasses many different trails. The Heritage Trail, Food and Wine Trail, Golf Trail and Art Trail or discover your own unique trail.

Northland and the Bay of Islands has a climate that is sub-tropical and is ideal for touring and exploring. This region is a game fishing mecca and suitable for all skill levels. The Tutukaka coast is one of the world's top ten dives with spectacular reefs adorned by soft coral, pinnacles and tunnels provide a unique marine habitat.