10 day private tour
10 Day North Island & Bay of Islands Discovery
Pair the Bay of Islands with the Coromandel, Rotorua and Lake Taupō on a private journey from Auckland to Wellington.
Tour overview
Explore the North Island from its subtropical north to the capital. Begin in Auckland, spend two nights in Paihia for the Bay of Islands and Waitangi, then return through Auckland before crossing to the Coromandel Peninsula. Continue to Rotorua for geothermal landscapes, redwood forest and Māori culture, pause beside Lake Taupō and finish in Wellington on Day 10. Your private driver guide handles the route and logistics, leaving each free day open for the experiences that interest you most.
Best for: Travellers wanting Northland and the central North Island in one trip
Highlights
- Whangarei Falls
- Hole in the Rock Cruise
- dolphin cruise
- Hole in the rock dolphin cruise
- Waitangi Treaty Grounds
- Cathedral Cove
- Hot Water Beach
- Karanghake Gorge
- Kairau Park Mud Pools
- Mitai Maori Village
What's included
- Private driver guide and vehicle throughout the tour
- Nine nights of accommodation at your chosen level
- All planned road transfers, fuel and parking
- Your driver guide's accommodation and costs
- Time for free sightseeing and walks along the route
Not included
- Flights into Auckland and onward from Wellington
- Meals and drinks unless added to your tour
- Paid activities and excursions unless selected
- Travel insurance
Full itinerary
Pick an exact start date in the booking panel to see real dates here.
Arrive in Auckland, meet your private driver guide and settle in near the waterfront. Take the first day gently before travelling north tomorrow.
Accommodation: Motels (3 star) in Auckland
Read our Auckland destination guide →
Frequently asked questions
Why does this tour return through Auckland?
Paihia and the Bay of Islands sit north of Auckland, while the Coromandel route continues southeast. Returning through Auckland creates a comfortable connection between the two regions.
What can I do on the free day in Paihia?
Popular choices include the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Russell, a Bay of Islands cruise, sailing or a relaxed day around Paihia's waterfront.
Where does the tour finish?
The tour spends the ninth night in Wellington and finishes there on Day 10. No additional Wellington room is charged after the departure day.
Can I change the number of nights?
Yes. Select Customise this tour to alter the stays, add activities or extend the route, with the estimate updating as you make changes.
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