Explore the Enchanting Northland, New Zealand – An 8-Day Budget Adventure

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Auckland, New Zealand

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Depot

Start your adventure with a hearty meal at The Depot, known for its delicious locally-sourced brunch options.
Located in downtown Auckland, easily reachable by foot.
NZD25, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Auckland Harbour Bridge

Enjoy stunning views of the city skyline as you walk across the iconic bridge.
Take a 10-minute bus ride from the café to the bridge.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ahi

Savour a meal focused on local ingredients at Ahi, while enjoying views of the waterfront.
Head to Ahi, a short walk from the bridge.
NZD30, 1 hour

1:30PM

Auckland War Memorial Museum

Learn about New Zealand's rich history and culture through their interactive exhibits.
Catch a bus from Ahi, approximately a 20-minute ride.
NZD25, 2 hours

4:00PM

Travel to Whangarei

Head to the Whangarei town for your first overnight stay, exploring the local market if time permits.
Take a bus from Auckland to Whangarei, about 2.5 hours journey.
NZD30, 2.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Coal Cellar & Grill

Enjoy a casual meal at this local favourite, featuring a variety of flavours nearby Whangarei.
Walk to the restaurant from your accommodation.
NZD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Encounter

Whangarei, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mr. Yummy

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this beloved local eatery known for its pancakes and coffee.
Short walk from your accommodation.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Whangarei Art Museum

Discover New Zealand art, culture, and history in this beautiful museum featuring local artists.
5-minute walk from the café.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Whangarei Falls

Take a scenic walk to the stunning Whangarei Falls, a picturesque spot perfect for a picnic.
Take a bus to the park, around 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Cafe Divine

Enjoy healthy, hearty meals and homemade cakes at this café situated near the falls.
Return by bus to Whangarei town centre.
NZD15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Abbey Caves

Explore the stunning caves with limestone formations where you can see glowworms in their natural habitat.
A short bus ride to the caves.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Mall

Experience local flavours expertly crafted at this relaxed dining venue.
Take a bus back to Whangarei town centre.
NZD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Bay of Islands Bliss

Paihia, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Greenhouse Cafe

Start the day with delicious breakfast smoothies and fresh options as you head towards Paihia.
Bus from Whangarei to Paihia takes about 1 hour.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Visit this historic site to learn about the treaty that established New Zealand as a nation.
A short walk from the café.
NZD35, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Sunset Restaurant

Dine at this restaurant where local seafood shines on the menu.
Short walk from the Treaty Grounds.
NZD30, 1 hour

1:30PM

Take a Dolphin Cruise

Enjoy a spectacular boat cruise spotting dolphins in the pristine waters of the Bay of Islands.
Board at Paihia Wharf.
NZD95, 3 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Paihia Beach

Unwind and enjoy the stunning beauty of the beach or try your hand at swimming.
A quick walk from the wharf.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at in-house dining

Enjoy a relaxed dinner with local dishes at your accommodation’s dining area.
Walking distance from the beach.
NZD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Historical Russell

Russell, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cottage

Indulge in a traditional breakfast served with friendly local hospitality before venturing to Russell.
Boat ride from Paihia to Russell, approximately 15 minutes.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Russell’s Historic buildings

Wander through the charming streets of Russell and discover its historic colonial buildings.
Walking tour through the town.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Waitangi Mountain Bike Park

For the adventurous, these trails offer stunning views and great riding opportunities.
Return to Paihia for a quick bus ride to the park.
NZD10, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Duke of Marlborough

Enjoy a lovely meal with excellent views overlooking the bay.
Return to Russell for lunch.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Relax at Long Beach

Spend the afternoon lounging at the calm, serene beach known for its tranquil atmosphere.
Walking distance from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Russell

Refuel with a classic kiwi dinner experience in this welcoming pub-style gastropub.
A short stroll along the beach.
NZD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Scenic Cape Reinga

Cape Reinga, New Zealand

6:30AM

Quick Breakfast at Hostel

Enjoy a light breakfast with tea or coffee at your accommodation before departing.
Provided at the hostel.
NZD10, 30 minutes

7:00AM

Travel to Cape Reinga

Journey towards the northernmost point of New Zealand, where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean.
Join a day tour or use a rental vehicle; it's roughly a 2-hour drive.
NZD50, 3 hours (including stops)

10:30AM

Visit Cape Reinga Lighthouse

Witness the iconic lighthouse and learn about the area's cultural significance.
15-minute walk from the parking area.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch

Pack a picnic with local delicacies to enjoy in the scenic surroundings.
Bring your own packed lunch from your accommodation.
NZD15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Te Paki Sand Dunes

Take a thrilling sandboarding adventure or a leisurely stroll amidst these stunning dunes.
Short drive from the Cape Reinga lighthouse.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Return to Kerikeri

Head back and relax after a day of exploration at your accommodation in Kerikeri.
2-hour drive back.
NZD50, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Pear Tree

Enjoy a memorable meal at this relaxed yet sophisticated restaurant set in a historic building.
Walking distance from your accommodation.
NZD40, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Art and History

Kerikeri, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Kerikeri Organic Market

Savour fresh produce and artisanal goods at the weekend market held every Saturday.
Short walk from your accommodation.
NZD20, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit the Kerikeri Mission Station

Discover the first established European settlement in New Zealand and learn about its history.
A short drive or bus ride to the Mission Station.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Landing

Enjoy fresh, local fare in this relaxed eatery with a sunny patio area.
Walking distance from the Mission Station.
NZD30, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Rainbow Falls

Walk to the beautiful Rainbow Falls and enjoy a swim or relax in the serene surroundings.
A bus or a short drive from the café.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Stone Store & Kemp House

Explore these historic buildings that tell the story of early settlers in the region.
A brief bus ride from Rainbow Falls.
NZD10, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Settlers Arms

Enjoy a warm meal at this quaint establishment known for its rustic charm.
Short walk from your accommodation.
NZD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Nature and Serenity

Kaitaia, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café 204

Start your day with a perfectly brewed coffee and scrumptious breakfast at this local café.
Short walk from accommodation.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Muriwai Beach

Bask in the sunlight or take a stroll along the stunning coastline known for its wild beauty.
Take a bus or arrange for transport to the beach, about 45 minutes away.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Kaitaia Coffee

Grab a light lunch at this cozy café known for gourmet sandwiches and salads.
Return to Kaitaia town centre.
NZD15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Ahipara Beach

Spend your afternoon relaxing or walking on this magnificent beach known for its fine sand.
Short drive from Kaitaia.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Far North Historic Museum

Learn about the history of the Far North region at this informative museum.
Return to Kaitaia town centre.
NZD10, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Ngāpuhi Centre

Immerse yourself in Māori culture while enjoying a delightful meal in the cultural centre.
Walking distance from the museum.
NZD25, 2 hours
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Day 8: Return to Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Enjoy a light breakfast before starting your journey back to the city.
Provided at your accommodation.
Free, 30 minutes

8:30AM

Travel back to Auckland

Return to Auckland through scenic routes, soaking in the ultimate beauty of Northland.
Bus ride is approximately 4 hours.
NZD40, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at La Vista

Indulge in a delicious lunch at this casual eatery famous for its tasty pizzas.
Walk from the bus station.
NZD20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Auckland Sky Tower

Experience breathtaking views of Auckland from its iconic Sky Tower.
Take the Sky City Link bus or a short walk from La Vista.
NZD32, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Viaduct Harbour

Stroll through the vibrant Viaduct Harbour and possibly grab a coffee or ice cream.
Leisurely walk from the Sky Tower.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Orbit 360°

Celebrate your last night in New Zealand with a unique dining experience revolving high above the city.
Take the elevator straight from the Sky Tower.
NZD80, 2 hours
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