- Pricing From $9,495
- Single Supplement FREE*
- From Wellington
- Duration 7 Days
- Max Group Size 18
- Activity Level Easy Going
Early Bird Savings*
Twin Share Early Birds Save $500pp*
Single Traveller Early Birds – FREE Single Supplement*
Travel through the heart of the North Island of New Zealand with Bill Peach Journeys. The wonder of the North Island not only lies in its beautiful and dramatic landscapes, but also lives in the country’s culture. View picturesque sprawling farmlands, striking World Heritage National Parks, charming seaside towns and fascinating geothermal wonders all side by side. Witness a kaleidoscope of spectacular scenery as you travel through the centre of the North Island aboard the stunning Northern Explorer scenic train. Take in breathtaking vistas in style on board the new and exclusive Scenic Plus premium carriage while enjoying regionally inspired wine and cuisine.
Other highlights include an exploration of Lake Taupo – a large volcanic crater that was created from one giant explosion. Travelling on to Napier learn about the fascinating history which led to this town’s very unique Art Deco architecture. The journey concludes in the ever changing and dynamic city of Auckland. As always with a Bill Peach Journeys Sojourn, you will enjoy excellent accommodation, insightful touring and, of course, superb food and wine all with a distinctly New Zealand twist.
Highlights
- Enjoy a spectacular rail journey from Wellington to Taupo on board the Northern Explorer. Travel in style as we enjoy stunning vistas from the exclusive new Scenic Plus premium carriage while enjoying regionally inspired wine and cuisine
- Cruise on Lake Taupo, learn about its history and discover fascinating Māori mythology
- View the impressive and scenic Huka Falls and Taupo’s otherworldly Craters of the Moon Walk
- Explore Napier and discover its rich Art Deco history during a private guided walk
- Visit the world’s largest mainland gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers
- Indulge in superb New Zealand wines and cuisine including lunch and a tasting at acclaimed Mission Estate in Napier
- 6 nights in excellent accommodation, including the Sofitel Wellington and Hilton Auckland
- All meals included, breakfast lunch and dinner
- 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.
Sofitel Wellington
Sofitel Wellington is the leading luxury hotel in the city, combining French art de vivre with the spirit of New Zealand. Unwind in the welcoming, sophisticated rooms within a short walk of many attractions including Wellington Botanic Garden. A delightful amalgam of New Zealand’s natural beauty and colonial heritage, each peaceful space blends rich timbers, gleaming metals and luxurious fabrics into a haven of chic relaxation.Hilton Lake Taupo
Hilton Lake Taupo is the region's only 5 Star International hotel. From its spectacular vantage point, the hotel commands magnificent views over New Zealand’s largest lake, Lake Taupo, and the surrounding volcanic scenery beyond. The 19th-century building combines Victorian charm with modern styling, while facilities include swimming pools, tennis courts, a fitness centre, and lake-view dining from a restaurant balcony. The Hilton Lake Taupo commands an outstanding location, a breathtaking panorama, exceptional service, an intimate ambiance and contemporary luxury of the highest standard.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.
Your journey begins today in Wellington where you will be transferred from the airport to the sophisticated elegance of the Sofitel Wellington, located in the heart of the city. Tonight’s Welcome Dinner will be hosted by your Journey Director.
Overnight: Sofitel Wellington or similar
Board the exclusive Scenic Plus premium carriage of the Northern Explorer train this morning. Enjoying regionally inspired cuisine and wine during the journey, marvel at the striking extremes of New Zealand’s scenery, from the sparkling Kapiti coast, to the volcanic peaks of the Central Plateau to the fertile farms of the Southern Waikato.
Our destination is Tongariro National Park where we ride the Sky Waka Gondola to see Mt Ruapehu’s rugged volcanic terrain along with panoramic views of Mount Ngāuruhoe and Mount Tongariro. On arrival, take a short pleasant walk to the beautiful Tawhai Falls. After descending, continue on to Taupo and the Hilton Lake Taupo boasting breathtaking lake views.
Overnight: Hilton Lake Taupo or similar
This morning enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Taupo. Cruise to the famous Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings and around the picturesque bays of Lake Taupo. Learn about the volcanic history and Māori mythology surrounding Lake Taupo. After lunch we transfer to Craters of the Moon – this incredible geothermal walkway wanders through an other-worldly landscape featuring bubbling craters and steaming vents. Continue on with a visit to scenic Huka Falls, the largest falls on the Waikato River. The Waikato river is one of New Zealand’s longest rivers and it drains Lake Taupo – the largest freshwater lake in all of Australasia.
Overnight: Hilton Lake Taupo or similar
Today we travel from Lake Taupo to the Art Deco town of Napier in the Hawke’s Bay region. Rebuilt in 1931 after a massive earthquake, the town of Napier celebrates the Art Deco style in kiwi fashion, where the architecture symbolises optimism in the wake of disaster. Enjoy a private walking tour as we learn about this interesting town.
Hawke’s Bay’s warm maritime climate produces some of New Zealand’s richest and most complex Chardonnays. This afternoon, we have a tasting and delicious lunch at acclaimed Mission Estate. Later, check into Porters Boutique Hotel, luxury accommodation in the heart of Havelock North Village.
Overnight: Porters Boutique Hotel or similar
Today we visit Cape Kidnappers, an extraordinary sandstone headland to the east of Hastings. It was named by Captain Cook after an attempt by local Māori to abduct one of his crew. The cape is home to the largest Gannet colony in the world. Enjoy a guided 4WD tour through Cape Kidnappers Station – traversing riverbeds, broad rolling pastures through stands of native bush, steep gullies and breathtaking inclines. There is a stop on the way at a spectacular cliff top with panoramic views of Hawke’s Bay right across to the Mahia Peninsula. Following lunch at Birdwood Art Gallery, enjoy an afternoon at leisure.
Overnight: Porters Boutique Hotel or similar
This morning we fly on commercial aircraft to Auckland where we visit the Auckland War Memorial for a very interesting tour of this stunning building. The Museum protects and cares for an outstanding and significant collection of Māori treasures. Take a guided tour of the museum and enjoy a Māori show before our Farewell Dinner this evening.
Overnight: Hilton Auckland or similar
After a leisurely breakfast, transfer to the airport. Say farewell to new friends and take away memories of another delightful Bill Peach Journeys 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 / Post Tour
Flights from your home port to Wellington are not included in the journey price. Should you require flights to Wellington and from Auckland, we can provide a competitive quote on airfares and pre and post tour accommodation in both Wellington and Auckland, at the commencement and conclusion of your journey.
Level of Fitness Required – Soft Adventure
This tour is designed for travellers with a good level of fitness who enjoy being active and exploring the outdoors without wanting to push their physical limits. On this journey, there may be a mix of leisurely walks on uneven terrain, 4WD or activities that require some balance and good mobility. You may need to board a light aircraft or a boat from a jetty for example. It’s more engaging than a relaxed sightseeing journey but doesn’t involve anything extreme or strenuous. Ideal for those who are comfortable being on their feet and who enjoy a bit of soft adventure with their cultural or scenic experiences.
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 Offers are strictly limited, cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer and are valid if paid by 29 Aug, 2025 (Dec Departure) & 17 Oct, 2025 (Jan 2026 Departure) .