Auckland & Bay of Islands Encounter

Admire the natural beauty of New Zealand’s highlight destinations with a week of spectacular views, delicious food and luxurious accommodation.

This self drive holiday starts in Auckland, the hub of the north, where you’ll see some of the city sights. Then head north to the picturesque Bay of Islands, and experience the culture and scenery while staying at some of New Zealand’s most luxurious accommodation. Return to Auckland before heading over to Waiheke Island, a haven of beautiful vineyards and beaches, just a 40 minute ferry ride away.

Your holiday Includes:
Seven days hire car, unlimited kilometres
Three night at the Park Hyatt (including breakfast)
One night at Te Arai Lodge (all meals included)
Two nights at Eagles Nest (including breakfast)
Bay of Islands Cruise
Waiheke ferry return tickets

To check if travel is currently permitted to New Zealand visit the Smart Traveller website.

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Arrive in Auckland

Arrive in Auckland and pick up your hire car. Check in at the luxurious Park Hyatt, perfectly positioned on the waterfront. Enjoy exploring Auckland for the rest of the day, starting at the inner city’s Queen Street.

Take a short drive to the Auckland Museum, which showcases an extensive display of Māori and Pacific artefacts, as well as live Māori cultural performances. After you’ve soaked up some culture it’s time to relax in the Domain, the oldest park in Auckland. Made up of various different attractions including the Wintergardens, Formal Gardens, Duck Ponds and Band Rotunda, you can wander around the grounds or sit back, relax and soak in the beautiful atmosphere.

Finish the day in style, with dinner and drinks at Soul Bar in Viaduct Harbour. Relax and enjoy the view as you enjoy some fresh local produce and wine.

Overnight at the Park Hyatt Auckland

Move to Te Arai Lodge

Enjoy breakfast at the Park Hyatt before driving an hour and fifteen minutes to the spectacular Te Arai Lodge. This family run eco friendly lodge is surrounded by bushland and breathtaking views.

Spend the rest of the day fishing, playing golf, surfing or take a small hike. If you’re feeling more of a relaxed vibe you can always have a dip in the pool or relax with a massage before dinner.

For dinner choose between a private dining experience or the “Shared Dining” evening meal experience which invites you to join with hosts and fellow guests. Source produce from the gardens with the chef, observe or partake in the finishing touches of the offerings or simply relax by the open fire on the terrace with a drink, before being invited to share a communal table for dining.

Overnight at Te Arai Lodge

Bay of Islands

Start the day with a buffet breakfast and check out of the lodge. Enjoy a picturesque drive of just under three hours to the world renowned Bay of Islands.

Check into the ultimate luxury retreat, Eagles Nest, where you will settle into your private villa. Take a short drive into the historic town of Russell, where you can see some of New Zealand’s most significant historic buildings or enjoy afternoon tea in a quaint cafe.

If you’re in the mood to stretch your legs make the climb up Flag Staff Hill (an hour return trip) to see magnificent 360 degree views before heading back to Eagles Nest for dinner.

Overnight at Eagles Nest

Bay of Islands Cruise

Start your day with a delicious breakfast before seeing the Bay of Islands from a different angle and spending the day out on the water cruising. There is a water option to suit everyone, from fishing, swimming with dolphins, to relaxing in style with a drink.

After your cruise is done enjoy a meal at New Zealand’s first licensed hotel, bar and restaurant, The Duke of Marlborough. Located on the harbour at Russell this is the perfect place to wind down and have dinner with a view.

Overnight at Eagles Nest

Return to Auckland

After breakfast check out of Eagles Nest, and drive back to Auckland where you will return to the Park Hyatt.

This afternoon visit Auckland’s Sky Tower, the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere, where you can experience spectacular 360-degree views of the city from the observation deck. If you’re feeling adventurous you could try the SkyJump or SkyWalk. Finish your day with dinner at Orbit 360 at the top of the Sky Tower, where the dining room rotates every hour giving you a unique dining experience.

Overnight at Park Hyatt

Waiheke day trip

Today take a 40 minute ferry ride to Waiheke, often known as the ‘Island of Wine’. Choose to take your car over for the day, or join a winery tour with transport included. The island is home to many vineyards and cellar doors, and is a great place to enjoy a winery tour where you can visit a number of the island’s finest vineyards for wine and olive tastings. If you’re in the mood for something different, Waiheke has options to suit everyone, from relaxing on a beach, to horse riding or zip lining.

After enjoying the island, take the return ferry home and enjoy your last night at the Park Hyatt.

Overnight at the Park Hyatt

Farewell to New Zealand

Say goodbye to Auckland this morning and return to the airport for your flight home.