- Pricing From $9,495pp
- Single Supplement FREE*
- From Auckland
- Duration 7 Days
- Max Group Size 15
- Activity Level Easy Going
- Departs 8 Dec 2025
- Returns 14 Dec 2025
Early Bird Savings
Twin Share Early Birds Save $500pp*
Single Traveller Early Birds – FREE Single Supplement*
Sublime scenery featuring rolling lush green hills, pristine coastal expanses and sparkling turquoise waters are just a few of the highlights to be found in the pristine Northland region of New Zealand. Join Bill Peach Journeys as we indulge all of our senses exploring the breathtaking northernmost reaches of New Zealand’s North Island. Take a premium cruise of the beautiful Bay of Islands viewing the famous “Hole in the Rock”. Marvel at the scenic panorama that unfolds during our flight over many of the 144 islands of this region and take in the striking Cape Reinga and its lighthouse where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. Discover Northland’s picturesque coast incuding the stunning natural beauty of the Hokianga region.
Explore the fascinating history of Northland from swashbuckling tales of Russell’s whalers to the loggers and gum diggers of the kauri industry. Learn about the exploits of the great Māori explorer, Kupe and the unique Waitangi Treaty signing. Enjoy magnificent scenery, fascinating history and incredible local cuisine and wine throughout. The remarkable Bay of Islands has so much to offer, do join us!
Highlights
- Spend 6 nights at stylish accommodation throughout the journey
- Touring of the quaint township of Russell in the Bay of Islands, the beautiful western Northland region including stunning Hokianga
- 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
- Take a premium cruise of the spectacular Bay of Islands spotting native birds and animals and viewing the acclaimed “Hole in the Rock”
- Visit Waitangi Treaty House to discover the fascinating history of Northland’s Māori and early settlers and enjoy cultural songs and dances
- Visit the Sculptureum to view unique artwork
- Walk in the footprints of the great explorer Kupe
- All meals - breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Your own 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
This morning, take a premium cruise of the breathtaking Bay of Islands including the famous “Hole in the Rock” while keeping our eyes peeled for dolphins, whales, penguins and other sea birds. The cruise concludes at historic Russell where we will take a tour and enjoy free time to wander. Once a settlement of swashbuckling whalers and sealers, today, Russell is a quaint township featuring exquisitely restored heritage buildings. Take a ferry back to Paihia after our charming visit.
Overnight: Paihia Beach Resort & Spa or similar
View the breathtaking Bay of Islands from the air during our scenic flight which takes in many of its 144 islands plus Cape Reinga and its lighthouse. Majestically sitting at the northwesternmost 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 Pahia.
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, next visit the award-winning Kauri Museum to learn about the Kauri industry and learn 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 where we enjoy panoramic city and harbour views at Sky Tower before enjoying our Farewell Dinner this evening.
Overnight: Hilton Auckland 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: Early Bird & Single Supplement Free offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, and is valid if paid by 26 Sep, 2025.