Experts in Australia, New Zealand & South Pacific

What to do in the North Island

Interislander: Wellington to Picton

a large body of water with a mountain in the background
Great for
  • Beaches & boats

The Interislander offers a convenient daily service across the twelve mile Cook Strait separating the North and South Islands. In three hours, you’ll cruise across Wellington’s stunning harbour, around the remote North Island coastline and into the peaceful Marlborough Sounds – which is the breath-taking entrance to the South Island.

Passenger Seat from £41 per adult

Kaitaki Premium Plus lounge from £67 per adult

Lake Taupo Scenic Cruise

a small boat in a body of water with a mountain in the background
Great for
  • Beaches & boats

Relax and take in the spectacular mountain views as you cruise across beautiful Lake Taupo to the famous Maori Rock Carvings on a comfortable modern catamaran. Listen to the live informative commentary from the crew as you enjoy a delicious morning tea.

From £28 per adult

Please Note: Cruise departs daily between Monday to Saturday at 10.30am and 1.30pm, and on Sundays at 1.30pm only, from Taupo Boat Harbour on Ferry Road.

Island Adventurer - Cliffs and Caves

a small boat in a body of water
Great for
  • Beaches & boats
  • Wildlife & nature

Take to the waters and discover the rugged seaward side of the Bay of Islands. Cruise past the majestic black rocks, so rare they only feature in 3 locations worldwide, also visit Marsden Cross - the site of New Zealand's first missionary settlement. The Island Adventurer can get you closer to the islands and even land you on the beach for a truly unique experience.

The cruise departs in a morning and finishes around 12.30pm, however you can choose to bring a picnic and spend the afternoon at Otehei Bay, returning back to Paihia at 4.15pm.

From £46 per adult

Please Note: Tour departs daily and is 4.5 hours in duration (or 9 hours if you wish to stay on the island for the afternoon). Includes cruise and full commentary and departs from Paihia or Russell Wharf.

M Social

Hotel Debrett

Te Puia

a body of water with smoke coming out of it

Te Puia is situated in Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve just a 5 minutes drive from central Rotorua, watch the famous Pohutu Geyser as it bubbles and shoots water high into the sky, and view Native Kiwi in a nocturnal enclosure. Te Puia is also home to the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, where you can learn to weave flax leaves, and watch the students intricately carve traditional wood sculptures.

Admission and Steam Box Lunch from £63 per adult

Please Note: Tour departs daily at 11am and includes admission, a guided tour and a hands on weaving experience.

Solitaire Lodge

Auckland Harbour Coffee Cruise

a large ship in a body of water
Great for
  • Beaches & boats
  • Visiting friends & family

Take to the sparkling waters of Auckland's harbour and view the city landmarks and skyline. The cruise also includes a return ticket to Devonport across the harbour - where you can discover the historic naval base. Jump off at Rangitoto Island and see the unique volcanic rocks, before sailing back to the wharf.

From £25 per adult

Please note: Tour departs daily at 10.45am or 1.45pm, and is 1.5 hours in duration, including morning or afternoon tea.

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

a train that is on top of a lush green field
Great for
  • Food & wine
  • Visiting friends & family

Perfect not just for fans of the movie trilogy, but also for those who’ve never set foot on a film set before. Based on some of New Zealand’s most picturesque farmland, take a 2 hour guided tour to learn the tricks of the camera, secrets of Hollywood, explore the Hobbit holes, and finish with food in the Shires Rest Café.

Either stop by on your self drive adventure on the way to Rotorua, or book a day tour including transfers from Rotorua.

From Rotorua £68 per person

Excluding transfers from £48 per person

Please Note: Tour departs daily from 1167 Fenton Street, Rotorua at 8am and 1pm, and is 4.5 hours in duration. Pick up included from certain city centre hotels - please ask for details.

Zealandia - Twilight Kiwi Spotting

a view of a large mountain in the background

As dusk falls, Zealandia (formerly known as the Karori Wildlife Sanctuary) comes alive with birdsong. Join your guide as you endeavour to seek out the elusive New Zealand mascot, the kiwi. With over one hundred calling the sanctuary home, there is a high 'spotting' chance as they rummage through the leaf litter. In addition, view glowworms that will light up your path as you explore two reservoirs and historical buildings.

General Admission from £12 per adult

Zealandia by Night £47 per adult

Please Note: Tour operates daily from the Zealandia Visitor Centre. Times vary throughout the season, please confirm on arrival to Wellington. City hotel transfers can be pre-booked at an additional cost. Duration of tour is 2.5 hours. Evening tour not suitable for children under twelve years. Alternative day tours are available, please ask your Travel Designer for details.

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