- Pricing From $8,595
- Single Supplement FREE**
- From Auckland
- Duration 7 Days
- Max Group Size 15
- Activity Level Easy Going
- Departs 15 Feb 2027
- Returns 21 Feb 2027
Twin Share Travellers – $500 Early Bird Savings pp* OR
FREE Single Supplement** OR
Divine When Combined Offer
Book this tour in conjunction with the Coastal Explorer Sojourn to receive complimentary one way economy flights between Wellington and Auckland PLUS 2 nights at the Hilton Auckland Hotel prior to the commencement of the Bay of Islands & Northland Horizons Sojourn
Sublime scenery, rolling emerald hills, sweeping coastal vistas and sparkling turquoise waters set the scene for an unforgettable journey through New Zealand’s pristine Northland. Join Bill Peach Journeys as we discover the beauty, history and rich Māori heritage of the northernmost reaches of New Zealand’s North Island. Cruise the magnificent Bay of Islands to the famous “Hole in the Rock” and discover the historic seaside charm of picturesque Russell. Marvel as an extraordinary panorama unfolds during our scenic flight over many of the region’s 144 islands. Soar north to dramatic Cape Reinga and its iconic lighthouse, where the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean spectacularly converge, then discover the unspoilt beauty of Hokianga.
Throughout our journey, delve into Northland’s colourful past, from swashbuckling tales of Russell’s whalers to the pioneering loggers and gum diggers of the great kauri forests. Discover the story of legendary Māori explorer Kupe and visit historic Waitangi, where the Treaty of Waitangi forever shaped the story of New Zealand. With magnificent landscapes, fascinating history, stylish accommodation and wonderful regional cuisine and wine throughout, this is Northland at its most captivating. Join us to discover a remarkable corner of New Zealand.
Highlights
- Explore Northland’s contrasting coasts, from the spectacular sheltered, island-dotted beauty of the east to the rugged, untamed west coast
- Tour the quaint township of Russell in the Bay of Islands and take in stunning Hokianga’s views
- Marvel at the breathtaking Bay of Islands from the air during a scenic flight which takes in many of its 144 islands plus Cape Reinga and its lighthouse
- Cruise the Bay of Islands to the iconic Hole in the Rock, a spectacular natural landmark, while keeping watch for abundant wildlife along the way
- Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds to discover the fascinating history of Northland’s Māori and the early settlers and enjoy a Māori cultural performance
- Visit the Sculptureum to view unique artworks
- Walk in the footprints of the great explorer Kupe
- Spend 6 nights at stylish accommodation throughout the journey
- All meals - breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Your own private room with reduced single supplement charge
- Escorted throughout by a dedicated Journey Director
Tour Departures
Hotels
Bill Peach Journeys understands the importance of selecting the right accommodation to complement each journey. In this case, a selection of exceptional properties have been chosen to showcase the incredible destinations visited throughout this journey.
Hilton Auckland
The 5 Star Hilton Auckland is celebrated for its prime location and stunning harbour views. The hotel's proximity to city attractions are a highlight for guests as the hotel is a quick walk from the popular Viaduct, central business district and Quay Street restaurants, shops and nightlife. This nautical-style waterfront hotel has sundecks, private balconies and walls of windows for views of the harbour you won't find anywhere else. A seafood restaurant and a sleek bar overlook the harbour. Other amenities include an outdoor heated lap pool and an exercise room.
Transfer from Auckland Airport to your stylish hotel. Relax this afternoon or explore New Zealand’s largest and most diverse city overlooking the picturesque Hauraki Gulf. Your welcome dinner will be hosted by your Journey Director tonight, a perfect chance to meet your fellow travellers.
Overnight: Hilton Auckland or similar
Head north this morning stopping first at Sculptureum, a fascinating gallery where we will explore the unique collection of galleries and sculpture gardens before continuing on to enjoy lunch by the serene riverside in Matakana.
Wind through lush hills, picturesque countryside and native bush on a scenic drive north from Matakana to the Kawiti Glowworm Caves for a private tour. Experience the magic of thousands of twinkling lights while learning about their fascinating ecosystem. Continue on to spectacular Paihia, known as the gateway to the Bay of Islands.
Overnight: Paihia Beach Resort & Spa or similar
Discover spectacular coastal scenery as we cruise to the iconic Hole in the Rock and into beautiful Otehei Bay. You may even spot dolphins, whales, penguins or seabirds along the way. The journey concludes in historic Russell, where we will take a tour before enjoying free time to wander. Once a settlement of swashbuckling whalers and sealers, Russell is now a quaint township. Explore the town’s sights and beautiful waterfront before returning to Paihia by ferry.
Overnight: Paihia Beach Resort & Spa or similar
View the breathtaking Bay of Islands from the air, our scenic flight showcasing many of its 144 islands, the spectacular Cape Reinga and its iconic lighthouse. Majestically sitting at the north-westernmost tip of the Aupouri Peninsula where the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean collide in a stunning swirl of currents, Cape Reinga is called ‘the place of leaping’, where Māori spirits begin their final journey. This afternoon we explore Waitangi Treaty House and Grounds where in 1840 the Treaty of Waitangi was signed between the Māori and the British Crown. Following, we will enjoy an immersive cultural experience that includes an inspiring pōwhiri (welcome), and traditional songs, poi dance and haka (war dance). After touring, return to Paihia.
Overnight: Paihia Beach Resort & Spa or similar
Today we drive to Hokianga, a harbour town featuring a fascinating Māori and European past. First, view picturesque Rainbow Falls before enjoying lunch and wine-tasting at the charming Marsden Estate. Next, we follow in the Footprints of Kupe, the great explorer in an acclaimed and unique multi-sensory journey into Māori history and traditions.
Overnight: The Sands Hotel or similar
On our return south visit Waipoua Forest renowned for its towering kauri trees and rare birds and stand before Tāne Mahuta — the largest living Kauri tree. Continuing south to the award-winning Kauri Museum, we learn about the Kauri industry and hear stories of courage and determination, tragedy and triumph, boundless hope and unfathomable loss. We drive along Kaipara, the largest natural harbour in the Southern Hemisphere before arriving back in Auckland. Tonight, we will take in panoramic city and harbour views at Sky Tower as we enjoy our delicious Farewell Dinner.
Overnight: The Grand by Sky City Hotel or similar
After breakfast, we transfer to Auckland Airport taking with us memories of a delightful Bay of Islands Sojourn.
About Sojourns
Our Sojourn programmes are short break journeys put together in conjunction with themes, events or experiences. These programmes range from cruising New Zealand’s North Islands to world-class sporting events and unique experiences throughout Australia and New Zealand.
About Single Traveller Journeys
We recognise the specific requirements of single travellers and that’s why a number of our journeys are single supplement free, affording you the benefit of your own single room, without any, or with significantly reduced extra cost. In fact, over 40% of our guests travel alone and return to Bill Peach Journeys again and again. In this way, you can enjoy the camaraderie of your fellow travellers during the day, along with the safety and security of travelling with an escorted group, but still retire to your own personal room in the evening. Note: The single supplement free offer cannot be taken in conjunction with any other offer.
Fully inclusive
This journey includes accommodation, all meals as specified, touring throughout, transfers, services of a dedicated Journey Director.
Coaches
The coaches that we use for the ground component of this journey are fully air-conditioned.
Pre Tour
Flights from your home port to Auckland are not included in the journey price. Should you require flights to and from Auckland, we can provide a competitive quote on airfares and pre and post-tour accommodation in Auckland, at the commencement and conclusion of your journey.
Level of Fitness Required – Easy Going
These journeys are not physically demanding unless you want them to be. They include easy guided walks, which are mainly on flat ground. There will be times when you are required to board a launch for shore excursions. You must be able to walk up to 1 kilometre unaided and will not need any foreseen assistance throughout the journey. For all clients to fully enjoy this travel experience, excellent health and mobility is required by all.
We strongly urge you to consider the fitness rating before selecting your preferred journey, in respect for your fellow travellers. Bill Peach Journeys reserves the right to refuse travel to any client whose fitness level is below the recommended rating.
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend that you purchase travel insurance to cover you against such things as personal illness or accident, cancellation, loss of baggage etc. Please make sure you carry a copy of your Travel Insurance policy with you at all times.
Terms and Conditions
Please refer to the T&C’s for more information. Terms & Conditions (PDF)
**Conditions Apply: The FREE Single Supplement Saving is limited and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.
*Conditions Apply: The $500pp Early Bird Saving is limited and applies if booked and paid in full by 17 Nov, 2026 and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.
*Conditions Apply: The $250pp Late Bird Saving is limited and applies if booked and paid in full by 14 Jan, 2027 and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.
Scenic flight further information –
The initial stage of the tour consists of a 45 minute flight up to Cape Reinga via Northlands’ spectacular harbours, such as the Whangaroa Harbour and the Rangaunu Harbour. We also pass across some beautiful beaches such as Coopers Beach, Doubtless Bay and of course the famous Ninety Mile Beach. From Ninety Mile Beach we then fly inland where we land at our airfield, which is only 20km from the Cape Reinga lighthouse.
Once on the ground a comfortable air-conditioned mini-bus will meet the aircraft. It will take you on a 2½ vehicle hour tour around the top of New Zealand.
The return 1 hour flight to the Bay of Islands includes some of the most spectacular coastal scenery Northland has to offer. You will fly over the Parengarenga Harbour and Great Exhibition Bay, which are only visible by air or by sea. This area is very remote and without a doubt one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand with it’s pure white silica sand and crystal clear water. The flight also passes across the Houhora Harbour, the Cavalli islands, Kauri Cliff’s golf course and the spectacular Bay of Islands.