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Auckland and North Island Itinerary

Explore the Best of Auckland and North Island - 7-Day Itinerary

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Saturday, December 23: Arrival in Auckland

Morning: Upon arrival in Auckland, get settled in your hotel and take some time to explore the city's waterfront area. Visit the iconic Sky Tower for breathtaking views of the city and enjoy a cup of coffee at a local café.

Afternoon: Head to the vibrant Viaduct Harbour and indulge in delicious seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants. Take a stroll along the Wynyard Quarter and admire the beautiful yachts.

Evening: Immerse yourself in the buzzing nightlife of Auckland by visiting some of the trendy bars and clubs in the Britomart precinct.

  • Auckland Sky Tower: Cost estimate - NZD 32 for general admission, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Viaduct Harbour: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Britomart precinct: Cost estimate - Varies, Time spent - Evening

Sunday, December 24: Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Morning: Depart from Auckland and head to Waitomo, known for its mesmerizing Glowworm Caves. Take a guided tour and witness the magical glowworms illuminating the underground caverns.

Afternoon: Satisfy your adventurous side by exploring the Ruakuri Bushwalk and discover stunning limestone formations.

Evening: Return to Auckland and enjoy a relaxing dinner at one of the city's cozy restaurants.

  • Waitomo Glowworm Caves: Cost estimate - NZD 55 for adult admission, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Ruakuri Bushwalk: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, December 25: Hobbiton Movie Set

Morning: Celebrate Christmas day with a visit to the famous Hobbiton Movie Set, a must-see for any fan of "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" series. Explore the charming hobbit holes and indulge in a festive lunch at The Green Dragon Inn.

Afternoon: Embark on a guided tour around the lush farmland and learn fascinating behind-the-scenes stories about the filming of the movies.

Evening: Return to Auckland and enjoy a festive Christmas dinner at a local restaurant.

  • Hobbiton Movie Set: Cost estimate - NZD 89 for adult admission, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Tuesday, December 26: Rotorua

Morning: Depart from Auckland and head to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua. Explore the beautiful Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, where you can witness volcanic activity and vibrant colored pools.

Afternoon: Experience the healing properties of the natural geothermal springs at the Polynesian Spa and indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment.

Evening: Enjoy a traditional Maori cultural performance and feast on a delicious hangi dinner.

  • Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland: Cost estimate - NZD 32 for adult admission, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Polynesian Spa: Cost estimate - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Maori cultural performance and hangi dinner: Cost estimate - NZD 120-150 per person, Time spent - Evening

Wednesday, December 27: Napier

Morning: Depart from Rotorua and head to the charming city of Napier, known for its Art Deco architecture. Take a leisurely stroll along the Marine Parade and enjoy the beautiful coastal views.

Afternoon: Explore the renowned wineries of Hawke's Bay and indulge in wine tasting sessions and cellar door experiences.

Evening: Enjoy a lovely dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants and savor the fresh seafood.

  • Marine Parade: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Hawke's Bay wineries: Cost estimate - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Thursday, December 28: Return to Auckland

Morning: Depart from Napier and head back to Auckland. Take a scenic route along the stunning Pacific Coast Highway, stopping at picturesque spots like Mount Maunganui and Orewa Beach.

Afternoon: Arrive in Auckland and spend the afternoon exploring the city's museums and art galleries, such as the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki.

Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Auckland's top restaurants, overlooking the city skyline.

  • Pacific Coast Highway: Cost estimate - Varies, Time spent - Full day
  • Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki: Cost estimate - NZD 20 for adult admission, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Friday, December 29: Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Take the opportunity to explore some hidden gems and local favorites in Auckland before your departure. Visit the trendy neighborhood of Ponsonby and browse through its boutique shops and vibrant cafes. Take a leisurely walk along the scenic West Coast beaches, such as Piha or Muriwai, and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Auckland, don't miss out on visiting the Auckland Domain, a beautiful park featuring the Auckland Museum and stunning gardens. Enjoy panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf and Rangitoto Island from the top of Mount Eden, one of Auckland's iconic volcanic cones. Explore the hip and artistic neighborhood of K Road, known for its eclectic mix of cafes, restaurants, and boutique stores.

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