Day 1: Arrive Wellington
Upon arrival at Wellington Airport you’ll be transferred to your hotel. Spend some time at leisure to relax or explore on your own. This evening, join your Journey Director for a Welcome Reception, followed by dinner.
Day 2: Wellington
Today is your choice of sightseeing: You could experience the Weta Cave, home of the creative wizards behind The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Go on a guided city walking tour around Wellington or a guided tour of Te Papa Museum of New Zealand. Your Journey Director can assist in booking your optional experiences.
Day 3: Wellington – Hawke’s Bay
Travel through the dairy farming land of Manawatu to Napier in Hawke’s Bay. This evening, enjoy wine tasting and dinner at one of their world-famous wineries. Spend the evening in your accommodation surrounded by the areas majestic hills.
Day 4: Napier
After a relaxed morning, we venture out to the region of Hawke’s Bay. Relive the glamour and style of the jazz era with a luxurious vintage car tour. You’ll be met by your driver, in Art Deco costume, who will provide a fascinating commentary as you are driven in style, through Napier and surrounding areas. You’ll learn about the earthquake that destroyed the city, hear stories of the people that led the rebuild, and discover the Art Deco style. This evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel.
Day 5: Hawke’s Bay – Rotorua
Enjoy a leisurely start today before continuing the journey to Rotorua. Visit the spectacular Huka Falls, the only outlet of water from Lake Taupo, and then it’s on to Rotorua, where on arrival, an orientation tour takes in views of Lake Rotorua. Later, you’ll visit the Whakarewarewa Living Village for an insight into Māori life and how they interact with geothermal activity. Tonight, an evening of culture, history and scrumptious food awaits you at the Tamaki Māori Village. Wander through the ancient forest village and learn about Māori art forms and traditions, followed by a concert featuring local performers. Experience an authentic Māori Hangi meal, steamed underground in the traditional way.
Day 6: Rotorua – Redwoods Treewalk
Ascending to the breathtaking Redwoods Treewalk, enjoy an elevated bird’s eye view of the 115-year-old redwood giants and view the beautiful surrounds of the forest from a unique perspective. Next stop is Rainbow Springs Nature Park. Discover native flora that grows around the crystal clear mineral water springs and learn about their kiwi hatchery programme that is proudly supported by TreadRight.
Day 7: Rotorua – Waitomo Caves – Auckland
Make your way to the famous Waitomo Caves for an exclusive 5-star Eco Glowworm experience. Your guide sets the scene for a cave experience where you will see glowworms, cave formations and appreciate the beauty of Footwhistle Cave. Later, travel through the dairy farming district of Waikato, and onto Auckland. This evening, toast your trip together at a Celebration Dinner.
Day 8: Depart Auckland
Say farewell to your fellow travellers as your Inspiring Journey comes to an end and we transfer you to Auckland Airport for your onward flight.
