8 places you sleep in over 12 nights. Select a place in the list to find it on the map.
1Overnight stop, in route orderVisited on the waySmall group vehicle with your driver guideStarts in Auckland, ends in Wellington. 8 overnight stops across 13 days, about 1,240 km of driving. Select a marker to open that day.
Overview
Guided tour, small group. A driver guide travels with you the whole way, in a smaller group and a smaller vehicle than a full-size coach.
Discover the North Island’s most iconic destinations, while travelling Business Class on wheels on the Ultimate coach, with a maximum of 20 travellers. 13 days through the North Island, running Auckland to Wellington. Along the way: Auckland, Waiheke Island, Waipoua Forest. Every night is booked and the travelling is handled, so the itinerary below is what you actually do rather than a list of things you could arrange yourself.
On arrival in Auckland, you will be met by a representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening, enjoy a pre-dinner drink as you meet your travelling companions and Local Host, who will welcome you to New Zealand Staying in Hotel Crowne Plaza Auckland (2 nights) 4 Star Plus Accommodation Set in the vibrant heart of downtown Auckland, Crowne Plaza Auckland offers a truly magnificent experience infused with kiwi charm. Explore the enchanting ‘city of sails’ from the inside out thanks to the great location. After an exciting day of sightseeing, retreat to the comfort of your spacious room, meticulously designed to cater for the modern traveller. Meals included: Dinner
Today, enjoy a city sights tour of Auckland. A short ferry ride transports you to Waiheke Island, where you’ll meet your local Coach Captain and board your coach for an unforgettable day of discovery. Continue to the island’s eastern shores and the idyllic Man O’War Vineyard. Upon arrival you will be welcomed with a guided tasting of two flagship wines, followed by a delicious lunch. The experience continues at Allpress Olive Oil, where you’ll learn about the art of growing and pressing extra virgin olive oil, followed by a tasting of Allpress’ signature blends before returning to Auckland via ferry. This evening is free to explore the local eateries at leisure. Staying in Hotel Crowne Plaza Auckland 4 Star Plus Accommodation Set in the vibrant heart of downtown Auckland, Crowne Plaza Auckland offers a truly magnificent experience infused with kiwi charm. Explore the enchanting ‘city of sails’ from the inside out thanks to the great location. After an exciting day of sightseeing, retreat to the comfort of your spacious room, meticulously designed to cater for the modern traveller. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Depart Auckland and travel to Matakohe to enjoy an informative talk at the Kauri Museum. This afternoon travel to the unforgettable Footprints Waipoua experience, set within Waipoua Forest and home to some of the largest and oldest surviving kauri trees on earth. Guided by a knowledgeable local host, you’ll learn how these ancient giants are deeply intertwined with Māori life and traditions, and the vital role they play within the forest’s unique ecosystem. Your day concludes in Paihia, ideally located in the heart of the stunning Bay of Islands, where coastal beauty and rich history await. Staying in Hotel Copthorne Hotel and Resort, Bay of Islands (3 nights) 4 Star Accommodation Set amidst 60 acres of landscaped grounds in picturesque Waitangi, Copthorne Hotel & Resort Bay of Islands offers a tranquil waterfront escape. Comfortable accommodation, coastal views, and extensive resort facilities including tennis court and pool, provide the perfect setting to relax and unwind. Conveniently located near Paihia and key Bay of Islands attractions, it is an ideal base for discovering Northland’s rich history and natural beauty. Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning cruise through the beautiful Bay of Islands to Cape Brett, where a historic lighthouse keeps watch over Piercy Island, or as it is popularly known, the ‘Hole in the Rock’. As you travel through these pristine waters, keep watch for dolphins and other marine life commonly seen along the way. Your cruise concludes in Russell, where you’ll enjoy free time exploring one of New Zealand’s oldest and most charming settlements. Later, return to Paihia by local ferry before visiting the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the nationally significant site where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between Māori chiefs and representatives of the British Crown. Staying in Hotel Copthorne Hotel and Resort, Bay of Islands 4 Star Accommodation Set amidst 60 acres of landscaped grounds in picturesque Waitangi, Copthorne Hotel & Resort Bay of Islands offers a tranquil waterfront escape. Comfortable accommodation, coastal views, and extensive resort facilities including tennis court and pool, provide the perfect setting to relax and unwind. Conveniently located near Paihia and key Bay of Islands attractions, it is an ideal base for discovering Northland’s rich history and natural beauty. Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today is yours to enjoy at leisure. Choose from a range of optional experiences, including the iconic Cape Reinga coach journey via the legendary Ninety Mile Beach, or take to the skies on a breathtaking scenic flight. This evening is also at leisure, with the option to unwind and reflect on your day aboard a relaxing dinner cruise across the bay. Staying in Hotel Copthorne Hotel and Resort, Bay of Islands 4 Star Accommodation Set amidst 60 acres of landscaped grounds in picturesque Waitangi, Copthorne Hotel & Resort Bay of Islands offers a tranquil waterfront escape. Comfortable accommodation, coastal views, and extensive resort facilities including tennis court and pool, provide the perfect setting to relax and unwind. Conveniently located near Paihia and key Bay of Islands attractions, it is an ideal base for discovering Northland’s rich history and natural beauty. Meals included: Breakfast
Depart the Bay of Islands and travel south to Hamilton, set in the heart of the fertile Waikato region. On arrival, enjoy a guided tour of the acclaimed Hamilton Gardens, one of New Zealand’s most distinctive visitor experiences. Rather than a traditional botanic garden, Hamilton Gardens presents a series of beautifully crafted spaces that explore the evolution of garden design across cultures and history, offering an experience akin to an open‑air museum. Staying in Hotel Novotel Tainui Hamilton 4.5 Star Accommodation Located on the banks of the Waikato River, Novotel Tainui Hamilton offers modern accommodation in the heart of the city. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, contemporary dining, leisure facilities including a fitness centre, pool and tennis court, and easy access to Hamilton’s shopping, dining, and entertainment precincts. Combining comfort, convenience, and warm hospitality, the hotel is an ideal base for exploring Hamilton and the wider Waikato region. Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, travel through picturesque countryside to the world‑famous Hobbiton Movie Set, where a guided tour of the 12‑acre site brings Middle‑earth to life. Wander past the charming Hobbit Holes, and the Mill before stepping inside the iconic Green Dragon Inn. You’ll also have the opportunity to venture beyond the door and explore an authentic Hobbit Hole interior, offering a fully immersive experience, followed by lunch. Continue to Rotorua to visit the enchanting Redwoods Forest. Enjoy a guided glowworm experience before ascending into the forest canopy for a magical treetop walk. Cross eco‑suspended bridges and platforms high above the forest floor as you come face to face with magnificent redwoods towering up to 75 metres above the ground. Staying in Hotel Millennium Hotel Rotorua (2 nights) 4 Star Accommodation Millennium Hotel Rotorua offers comfortable accommodation in the heart of Rotorua, with views of beautiful Lake Rotorua and adjacent to the Government Gardens. Conveniently located within walking distance of key attractions, the hotel features spacious rooms, excellent dining options, a heated indoor pool, spa facilities, and warm Kiwi hospitality, making it an ideal base for exploring the region’s geothermal wonders. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today begins with a scenic gondola ride and breakfast at Skyline Rotorua, where spectacular views are on offer. There is also time for a thrilling luge ride! Spend the remainder of the morning at leisure, exploring Rotorua at your own pace, New Zealand’s famed geothermal capital. This afternoon, travel to Te Pā Tū for an immersive Māori cultural evening set within a tranquil native forest. The experience begins with a traditional welcome before unfolding through powerful storytelling, song and dance, culminating in a seasonal, family‑style shared feast inspired by Māori cuisine. Staying in Hotel Millennium Hotel Rotorua 4 Star Accommodation Millennium Hotel Rotorua offers comfortable accommodation in the heart of Rotorua, with views of beautiful Lake Rotorua and adjacent to the Government Gardens. Conveniently located within walking distance of key attractions, the hotel features spacious rooms, excellent dining options, a heated indoor pool, spa facilities, and warm Kiwi hospitality, making it an ideal base for exploring the region’s geothermal wonders. Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner, Speciality Dinner
This morning, travel to Te Puia for a guided tour through the geothermal heart of Rotorua, home to the dramatic natural wonders the region is famous for, including bubbling mud pools and powerful erupting geysers. Continue along the scenic Thermal Explorer Highway to Huka Falls, where you’ll have the opportunity to experience an exhilarating jet boat ride (optional), skimming across the Waikato River and into the thundering canyon. Travel on to Taupō for some free time to explore the lakeside town before joining a cruise on Lake Taupō, New Zealand’s largest inland lake. The cruise offers superb views of the impressive Māori rock carvings at Mine Bay, a remarkable site accessible only from the water. Staying in Hotel Hilton Lake Taupo 5 Star Accommodation Perched above the shores of Lake Taupō, Hilton Lake Taupō blends elegant accommodation with stunning lake and mountain views. Set within a heritage-inspired property, the hotel features stylish rooms, excellent dining, thermal hot tubs, and leisure facilities. With its peaceful setting and premium amenities, it provides a relaxing retreat in one of New Zealand’s most scenic destinations. Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Continue to Napier, proudly known as the “Art Deco Capital of the World,” and home to the most comprehensive collection of Art Deco architecture found anywhere. On arrival, enjoy some free time before you board the Hawke’s Bay Express for an informative and entertaining journey through the city, accompanied by commentary that brings Napier’s fascinating history and 1930s rebirth to life. Staying in Hotel Scenic Hotel Te Pania (2 nights) 4 Star Accommodation Hawke’s Bay is one of the first places in the world to see the light each day and the Scenic Hotel Te Pania is one of the most recognisable hotels in Napier, boasting design awards for its style and service, situated on the premium waterfront location on Marine Parade. The hotel’s slender curved form echoes the shape of the bay. A fresh, contemporary style hotel that is only a short stroll from Napier’s main art deco style street and is located in close proximity to many of Napier’s attractions. Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Depart Napier and journey along scenic coastal roads toward the rugged landscapes of Cape Kidnappers. Embark on the unforgettable Gannets Overland Safari, travelling across rolling farmland and dramatic clifftops where sweeping ocean vistas create spectacular photo opportunities. Along the way, your knowledgeable guide shares engaging stories of the region’s history, geology and wildlife. This extraordinary headland is also home to one of the world’s largest and most accessible mainland gannet colonies. This afternoon, indulge in a visit to Craggy Range Winery, one of New Zealand’s most celebrated wine estates. Enjoy a tasting of award‑winning wines and lunch set against the striking backdrop of Te Mata Peak. Return to Napier for an evening at leisure, with time to explore the city’s distinctive Art Deco streets, seaside promenade and vibrant café scene. Please note: May falls outside the peak breeding season, so gannets may not be nesting at this time. Staying in Hotel Scenic Hotel Te Pania 4 Star Accommodation Hawke’s Bay is one of the first places in the world to see the light each day and the Scenic Hotel Te Pania is one of the most recognisable hotels in Napier, boasting design awards for its style and service, situated on the premium waterfront location on Marine Parade. The hotel’s slender curved form echoes the shape of the bay. A fresh, contemporary style hotel that is only a short stroll from Napier’s main art deco style street and is located in close proximity to many of Napier’s attractions. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning, travel south to Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital city. Enjoy a guided city tour showcasing Wellington’s rich history and cultural highlights. A key feature of the day is time at Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum, where you’ll explore Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War. This powerful exhibition uses cutting‑edge technology and larger‑than‑life figures to bring the stories of New Zealanders during World War I vividly to life. This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with selected beverages and take time to reflect on the journey and the memories shared with newfound friends. Staying in Hotel InterContinental Wellington 5 Star Accommodation Adjacent to Wellington’s waterfront, InterContinental Wellington is the most centrally located and experienced global five-star hotel in New Zealand’s capital city. It is the seamless and personal service of the team that makes your Wellington accommodation and travel experience truly memorable. In your room you will enjoy an enriching stay featuring walk-in showers, with handheld and rain shower heads, digital lighting controls and much more. Feel rejuvenated in the morning after a tranquil night’s sleep on your king bed inspired to uncover the New Zealand capital. Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner, Speciality Dinner
Kia ora. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday. Meals included: Breakfast
Good to know
Departures
13 Day Ultimate Best of the North Island runs on set dates. These are the departures still open, with what each one costs per person, two sharing.
Availability checked 26 October 2026 from the operator's own bookings. Guaranteed means the operator has confirmed the departure will run; sold out dates stay on the list so you can see what is left.
A date not listed is not being sold. Choose one and your quote comes back against that departure, at that departure's price.
Before and after
The tour itself runs as published. Nights in Auckland before it starts or in Wellington after it ends, and any of the optional experiences, can be added to your quote.
Never travelling alone
Your whole itinerary lives in a smart travel app with live vouchers, maps and daily guidance, and your own travel specialist is reachable seven days a week while you are on the road. If plans change, we rearrange them in real time.
Who you are booking with
Operator
This itinerary is operated by a Qualmark Gold certified New Zealand operator. We book it for you and stay your point of contact.
Silver Fern Travel
Tourism New Zealand 100% Pure New Zealand Specialist (Insider), IATA certified, based in Auckland, New Zealand.
Prices
Quoted from the operator's own booking engine and refreshed weekly. The figure on this page is the one you will be quoted.
Yes, and most guests change something. Add nights, upgrade rooms, swap activities or start from a different city: tell us what you would change and we re-quote 13 Day Ultimate Best of the North Island at no cost and no obligation.
A professional driver-guide from our New Zealand operations team, on the ground with you throughout. Every itinerary we sell is operated by a Qualmark Gold certified New Zealand tour operator, the highest grading in the country's official quality mark.
13 Day Ultimate Best of the North Island runs on 4 scheduled departure dates, listed with their prices on this page. Choose one when you enquire and your quote comes back against that departure, usually within one working day.
12 nights in hotel 4 star. Every property is confirmed by name on your written quote, before you pay anything, so you can look each one up before you commit. The trip runs one way, Auckland to Wellington, so there is no backtracking.
Nothing to enquire. A firm written quote arrives within one working day; if you go ahead, a 20% deposit per person (minimum NZ$250) confirms every booking and the balance is due 70 days before travel, with the exact date on your quote. Deposits can be paid by card, which keeps your card scheme's dispute protections in play.
No payment to enquire; a firm quote within one working day. Lowest priced travel dates, two sharing. International flights not included. A 20% deposit confirms your booking, with the balance due 70 days before travel. How your money is protected
Itineraries operated by a Qualmark Gold certified New Zealand operator. Tourism New Zealand 100% Pure Insider.
Request a quote for this trip
No payment, no obligation. A specialist replies with a firm quote within one working day.
Nothing to enquire, nothing until your quote is confirmed in writing, and never more than your deposit until the balance falls due 70 days before travel. Deposits can be paid by card, which keeps your card scheme’s protections in play.
Availability checked with our New Zealand operations team and confirmed in writing, not an automated estimate.
No booking fees, and nothing to pay to enquire
Quotes are free and carry no obligation. You pay a deposit only once the itinerary is right and you say go.
One person, before and during your trip
The same specialist plans your trip and is reachable while you are travelling, alongside in-country support seven days a week.
Insider status, Tourism New Zealand 100% Pure New Zealand Specialist Programme. IATA certified. Every itinerary is operated by a Qualmark Gold certified New Zealand tour operator.
