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Exploring Northern New Zealand in 5 Days

Viewed by 85 travelers

Day 1: City Exploration

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Federal Delicatessen

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this iconic Auckland eatery, famous for its bagels and coffee.
Federal Delicatessen is located in the central business district of Auckland, easily accessible by foot or public transport.
NZD 20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Sky Tower

Visit the Sky Tower for panoramic views of the city and enjoy some adrenaline with the SkyWalk or SkyJump.
The Sky Tower is located in central Auckland and can be reached by a short walk or taxi ride.
NZD 32, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Depot Eatery & Oyster Bar

Indulge in a seafood feast at this bustling eatery known for its fresh oysters and innovative dishes.
Depot Eatery & Oyster Bar is located in the Federal Street precinct, a short walk from the Sky Tower.
NZD 50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Viaduct Harbour

Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, admiring the boats and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Viaduct Harbour.
Viaduct Harbour is a short walk from Federal Street, with plenty of cafes and shops to explore.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Depot

End your day with a delicious dinner at The Depot, a popular restaurant offering a variety of sharing plates and local wines.
The Depot is located in Federal Street, close to Viaduct Harbour.
NZD 60, 2 hours
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Day 2: Bay of Islands Exploration

Paihia, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Third Wheel Coffee Co.

Fuel up for the day with a delicious breakfast at this charming cafe known for its excellent coffee and homemade pastries.
Third Wheel Coffee Co. is located in the heart of Paihia, a short walk from the main wharf.
NZD 15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Boat Tour to the Hole in the Rock

Embark on a scenic boat tour to explore the stunning Bay of Islands and cruise through the iconic Hole in the Rock.
Boat tours depart from Paihia Wharf, offering both morning and afternoon options.
NZD 120, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at El Cafe

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at El Cafe, a waterfront restaurant offering fresh seafood and Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
El Cafe is located near Paihia Wharf, perfect for a post-tour dining experience.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Spend the afternoon exploring the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where New Zealand's founding document was signed.
The Waitangi Treaty Grounds are a short drive from Paihia town centre, accessible by car or shuttle.
NZD 25, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Terra Restaurant

Dine at Terra Restaurant, known for its Pacific Rim cuisine and stunning views of the Bay of Islands.
Terra Restaurant is a short distance from Waitangi Treaty Grounds, offering a serene dining experience.
NZD 70, 2 hours
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Day 3: Underground Adventure

Waitomo, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bosco Cafe

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Bosco Cafe before heading to the Waitomo Caves for a magical underground experience.
Bosco Cafe is located in the heart of Waitomo village, a convenient stop before your cave exploration.
NZD 20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour

Embark on a guided tour through the mesmerising Glowworm Caves, where thousands of glowworms illuminate the underground caverns.
Tours depart from the Waitomo Caves Visitor Centre, providing an informative and enchanting experience.
NZD 55, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Huhu Cafe

Enjoy a unique dining experience at Huhu Cafe, known for its innovative menu featuring native New Zealand ingredients.
Huhu Cafe is situated in Waitomo village, offering a taste of local cuisine in a charming setting.
NZD 45, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Black Water Rafting Adventure

Embark on an adrenaline-pumping black water rafting adventure through the underground rivers of Waitomo, an unforgettable experience.
Black water rafting tours depart from Waitomo village, providing all necessary equipment for the thrilling excursion.
NZD 150, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner and Overnight Stay at Woodlyn Park

Spend the night at the unique Woodlyn Park accommodation, which offers a range of quirky options like sleeping in a converted plane or hobbit hole.
Woodlyn Park is a short drive from Waitomo Caves, providing a memorable and themed stay for the night.
NZD 100, Overnight
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Day 4: Geothermal Wonders

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Fat Dog Cafe & Bar

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Fat Dog Cafe & Bar, a popular local spot known for its delicious coffee and breakfast fare.
Fat Dog Cafe & Bar is located in the heart of Rotorua, providing a convenient start to your day of exploration.
NZD 25, 1 hour

10:00AM

Te Puia Geothermal Valley

Discover the geothermal wonders of Te Puia, where you can see bubbling mud pools, erupting geysers, and learn about Maori culture.
Te Puia is a short drive from Rotorua city centre, offering guided tours of the geothermal valley.
NZD 50, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Eat Streat

Head to Eat Streat for lunch, a vibrant dining precinct lined with restaurants featuring diverse cuisines and al fresco dining.
Eat Streat is located in central Rotorua, perfect for a leisurely dining experience after exploring Te Puia.
NZD 40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Redwoods Treewalk

Experience the beauty of the Redwoods Treewalk, a gentle walk among towering trees illuminated by enchanting evening lights.
The Redwoods Treewalk start point is a short drive from Rotorua city centre, offering a serene nature experience.
NZD 30, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mokoia Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at Mokoia Restaurant, offering a fusion of Maori and Western cuisine in a tranquil setting.
Mokoia Restaurant is located near the Redwoods Treewalk, providing a delightful dining option to end the day.
NZD 60, 2 hours
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Day 5: Return to Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Giraffe

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Giraffe, a stylish cafe with a focus on fresh, seasonal produce and great coffee.
Giraffe is located in the central business district of Auckland, a perfect spot to start your journey back to the city.
NZD 30, 1 hour

10:00AM

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

Embark on a magical tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set, where you can explore the iconic location from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films.
Tours to Hobbiton depart from Rotorua and include transport to the movie set, offering an immersive Middle-earth experience.
NZD 84, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Shire's Rest Cafe

Indulge in a themed lunch at The Shire's Rest Cafe, offering hearty meals in a picturesque setting overlooking the Hobbiton countryside.
The Shire's Rest Cafe is situated at the entrance to Hobbiton, providing a fitting end to your Middle-earth adventure.
NZD 35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Return to Auckland

Embark on the scenic drive back to Auckland, taking in the lush New Zealand countryside and picturesque views along the way.
Enjoy the journey back to Auckland with stops at local cafes or viewpoints to soak in the natural beauty of the North Island.
Cost of fuel, 4 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Depot

Conclude your Northern New Zealand adventure with a farewell dinner at Depot, where you can savour local flavours and reminisce about your unforgettable trip.
Depot is located in Auckland city centre, offering a vibrant dining atmosphere to wrap up your journey.
NZD 70, 2 hours
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