Aotearoa on a Plate: Auckland to Wellington

Welcome to Auckland

Welcome to Auckland, known in Māori as Tāmaki Makaurau. Auckland is New Zealand's vibrant "City of Sails," and the country's largest metropolitan area. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea. Surrounded by native bush, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches, Auckland is a haven for both adventurers and urban explorers. Wander through world-class museums and galleries in the city centre or enjoy a peaceful retreat at the Auckland Gardens, where stunning landscapes showcase New Zealand's diverse flora. Stroll along the lively waterfront to savour fresh seafood and international cuisine at Viaduct restaurants. For an unforgettable perspective, ascend the iconic SkyTower, New Zealand's tallest structure, and take in panoramic views of the city and its picturesque islands.

Private Transfer Auckland Airport to your Auckland Accommodation with Tourcorp

You will be met at the Auckland airport by the driver and transferred to your Auckland accommodation.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Harbour Sailing Dinner Cruise with Explore

This unique on-water sailing and dining experience is not to be missed while you're in Auckland. Enjoy smooth sailing on the Waitemata Harbour - then watch this photogenic city come alive with twinkling lights. Enjoy your meal as you sail around the beautiful Auckland Harbour taking in the view as the sun slowly sets. You'll be treated to canapes and a drink as you set off towards Westhaven Marina. To finish the evening off, savour your dessert course as you leisurely sail back to Auckland's vibrant Viaduct Harbour.

Fullers Ferry Auckland to Waiheke Island

Take a scenic approximately 45-minute cruise through the Hauraki Gulf between the Auckland down town ferry terminal and Matiatia Wharf on Waiheke Island.

EcoZip Adventures Waiheke Island

EcoZip Adventures offers state-of-the-art flying fox ziplines and an eco-immersive forest walk on breathtaking Waiheke Island, for nature lovers of all ages. Upon arrival and welcome at our visitor centre, you will be checked-in, geared up, and readied for one of Auckland's most eco-friendly activities! Three 200m dual flying fox ziplines will fly you smoothly side-by-side with a partner, friend or relative down into a stunning tract of original and regenerating native bush (forest). It's a scenic interpretive walk back to base, where you'll learn about local flora and fauna and the conservation of this spectacular natural environment. You'll enjoy the full Waiheke experience with a complimentary pick up from the island ferry and a range of drop-off locations afterward.

It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity before travel. For more information, please see here

Waiheke Island Western Explorer Hop On Hop Off Tour

The most flexible tour on Waiheke Island, introducing you to the island's top spots! Start the tour at Waiheke Island where you can hop on and off as much as you like at any of the 16 convenient stops which include vineyards, beaches and restaurants. If you prefer, stay on board and enjoy a 1 1/2 hour scenic tour of the island.
The buses stop at some of the island's iconic spots including Oneroa Village, Onetangi Beach, Batch Winery, the new Tantalus winery/brewery, Mudbrick Vineyard, Cable Bay Vineyard and more.
Knowledgeable tour drivers, and the addition of an on-board host, ensure you'll receive the most informative commentary as you travel around and you can get all the local tips and tricks for how best to enjoy Waiheke.
The Explorer Hop on Hop off departs from each hop on hop-off location approximately every 60 minutes throughout the day. 

Fullers Ferry Waiheke Island to Auckland

Take a scenic approximately 45-minute cruise through the Hauraki Gulf between Matiatia Wharf on Waiheke Island and the Auckland downtown ferry terminal.

Collect Rental Car

This tour's from price includes an intermediate-sized vehicle, setting you up for comfortable travels. Yet, we understand every adventure is unique! Feel free to select the perfect wheels from our incredible collection of rental cars, spanning from economy hatchbacks to premium SUVs.

Auckland to Cooks Beach

Cross the fertile soil of Hauraki Plains towards the Thames Estuary, a haven for wildlife in particular the shore birds at Miranda. Arriving into the historic gold town of Thames you then cross the Southern Coromandel Ranges and onto the wonderful east coast of the peninsula and the harbour town of Tairua. Paku Hill offers spectacular views over the natural harbour and the Pacific Ocean. Close by is the famous Hot Water Beach and the holiday town of Hahei. Keep driving up Purangi Road towards the coastal views and the safe, crescent shaped white stretch of sand that is Cooks Beach.

Cooks Beach & Flaxmill Bay

Cooks Beach is a stunning stretch of golden sand located on the southern shores of Mercury Bay. One of the most enjoyable ways to reach it is from Whitianga, by taking the short ferry ride to Ferry Landing. From there, you can walk to Flaxmill Bay either via Purangi Road or the scenic Whitianga Rock Walk track, then continue on to Cooks Beach. For breathtaking views, the Shakespeare Cliff Lookout track offers a rewarding walk to the top of the headland, with panoramic vistas over the bay. A side track also leads down to the secluded and picturesque Lonely Bay.

Mercury Bay Estate - suggested activity

Experience a taste of Italy in the Coromandel at Mercury Bay Estate, a boutique winery and restaurant overlooking the stunning Cooks Beach. You can stroll through the sloping vineyards, take in the coastal views before settling in for their signature wood-fired pizzas and estate-grown wines. It’s the ultimate spot to enjoy a relaxed, Mediterranean-style lunch while soaking up one of the best panoramas in the region.

Cathedral Cove Classic Sea Kayak Tour

Considered one of the best sea kayaking trips in the country the Cathedral Cove Classic has got it all. The Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve opens up a sea kayaking paradise full of beaches, islands and rock gardens that are just waiting to be explored. Paddle through sea caves, interact with the local marine life and discover the thrill of kayak sailing with the wind on your back. To top it off you land at Cathedral Cove where you will be treated to the 'world famous' cappuccinos and hot chocolates on the beach! Cathedral Cove Sea Kayaking use very stable double sea kayaks and quality safety equipment. No experience is necessary and a qualified guide accompanies throughout and offers full instructions and assistance.

It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information please see here.

Cooks Beach to Rotorua

Heading south from the Coromandel Peninsula you pass through the seaside town of Whangamata - a popular location for Kiwi holidaymakers and home to one of the best beaches in the region.  Next you come to the old mining town of Waihi which still has an operating open cast gold mine (Martha Mine) that can be viewed from a vantage point just above the town centre.
For rail enthusiasts, the Goldfields Railway operates passenger trains along a scenic and historic section of track towards Waikino. The route now takes you into the Bay of Plenty and the port town of Tauranga before you head along the scenic Pyes Pa Road to Rotorua. For Lord of the Rings fans, a detour to Matamata is recommended as this is the location of the Hobbiton film set. Arriving into Rotorua from the north you are welcomed by the spectacular view of the lake.

Rotorua

Discover the geothermal, adventure, and cultural wonderland of Rotorua. As you explore, you may see steam rising from cracks in the road, bubbling and hissing water in pools along the lake's edge, and the unmistakable smell of Sulfur. Rotorua is rich in Māori culture and history, with many Māori inhabitants recognising the great potential of the volcanic land. For an outdoor adventure, head to The Redwoods and experience the rainforest treetops from high up. There are a few accessible trails for disabled hikers and great biking trails as well. If you’re lucky, you might spot some of New Zealand's native birds, such as the Pīwakawaka (Fantail) and the Tūī. Alternatively, enjoy the Lake Tikitapu Blue Lake Walk or explore Kuirau Park, where you'll find bubbling mud pools and steaming lakes. Don't miss the private thermal reserves such as Te Puia and Wai-O-Tapu, where you can walk among bubbling mud pools, spouting geysers, and Sulfur ponds. Just a few minutes from the town centre, the Agrodome and National Kiwi Hatchery offer an insight into nature. Rotorua's rich Māori culture is a must-see. Spend an evening with Te Pā Tū, complete with a traditional-style dinner or stroll along the lake edge to reach one of the country's oldest Māori villages at Ohinemutu. When hunger strikes, visit Eat Street in Rotorua CBD, a vibrant street lined with delicious eateries and restaurants to satisfy any craving. No visit to Rotorua would be complete without experiencing Rotorua's original tourist attraction - a relaxing spa treatment. This town boasts an array of wellness experiences to unwind in. Whether you are seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, Rotorua offers an unforgettable experience.

Te Pā Tū Evening Māori Cultural Experience - Dinner Included

New Zealand’s Most Awarded Cultural Attraction, presenting Te Pā Tū. Feast on song, drama, tradition, and divine seasonal kai (cuisine) within the forest Pā (village) blanketed by towering Tawa trees, blazing bonfires, and a forest-formed amphitheatre. Te Pā Tū shares Māori history, traditions, and cultural aspirations across 4-hours of celebration and feasting. These events change with each season of the Maramataka, the Māori lunar calendar.

Explore Rotorua

Peppered with natural hot springs, boiling mud pools and steaming geysers, Rotorua sits within one of the world's most active volcanic regions. Geothermal landmarks aside, this city of sulphur has a rich indigenous history. Home to several prominent Māori tribes, a visit to one of the Māori experiences should be high on your agenda, learn about the special meaning of pounamu-Greenstone with Mountain Jade, explore the geysers and arts of Te Puia or immerse in an evening with Te Pā Tū. An excursion to one of the area's wellness spas is also a must! Try the Polynesian Spa for an invigorating soak in its natural mineral hot springs, Wai Ariki offers an indulging and unwinding restorative journey or pay a quick visit to Secret Spot for a soak and a delicious smash burger! If it is a thrill you are looking for, spike your adrenaline at Rotorua Canopy Tours, soaring above the ancient native forest below. Alternatively, head up the Skyline Rotorua Gondola for soaring lake views, and ride the luge at night for an extra thrill. Make the most of your time in Rotorua with an excursion through the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, one of the area’s most colourful volcanic attractions. Whatever you are after, Rotorua is almost certain to have it!

Redwoods Treewalk & Glowworm Combo General Admission

Redwoods Treewalk is one of New Zealand's top design-led tourism experiences, floating between 9 and 20 metres above the forest floor, this core eco-tourism walk is 700 metres long, spans across 28 suspension bridges and 27 platforms, and takes about 40 minutes to complete. Designed for use without harnesses or protective gear, it is suitable for all ages. The only pre-requisite is that all users must be able to walk the entire 553-metres.Then descend into a 70-metre eco-cave to witness the magic of over 2,500 native glowworms illuminating rock formations and a reflective water feature. The combined experience offers a total immersion into the forest's nocturnal beauty, both high in the canopy and deep within the earth.

Hot Tub Session with Secret Spot Hot Tubs

Indulge in tranquillity with a soak in private cedar hot tubs nestled among ferns, overlooking the serene Whakarewarewa Forest and Puarenga Stream. Perfect for unwinding with family or friends, these 39.9°C non-geothermal tubs offer 45 minutes of pure relaxation, with drinks just a button away. By day, enjoy the natural beauty of ancient trees, and by night, marvel at the forest illuminated by colourful lights. After your soak, treat yourself to a complimentary "shinny dip" foot tub at the Basecamp café while sipping a beverage or enjoying a delicious bite to eat.

Dinner in Basecamp Restaurant at Secret Spots - suggested activity

The Secret Spot have a unique BaseCamp Cafe and bar well worth a visit. Offering Sangria and iced chocolates on a hot summer's day and mulled wine and toasted marshmallow stout by the campfire in winter, BaseCamp cafe and bar is the perfect dinner spot all year round. BaseCamp Cafe and bar feature a range of scrumptious locally made muffins, scones and pies during the day and smash burgers, chicken satay roti and fries in the evening. The smash burger is a must try! While enjoying a delicious meal, you may wish to soak your legs in the free Shinny dips. These mini cedar wood foot hot tubs are designed for you to rest your tired legs after a day of fun adventure. 

Eat Street - suggested activity

Stroll through the vibrant, neon-lit atmosphere of Eat Streat to enjoy the geothermal warmth of the heated footpaths and frequent live music. Afterward, take a two-minute walk to the end of the street to explore the Rotorua Lakefront boardwalk, where you can enjoy stunning sunset views over the water and a massive modern playground for free.

Rotorua to Napier via Taupō

This drive will take you through the thermal region just south of Rotorua. Home to a plethora of unique geothermal attractions including boiling mud pits, natural hot springs and steaming geysers, this area is a must do before you move on to Napier. Notable attractions are Wai-O-Tapu, Waimangu and Craters of the Moon. Continue on to Taupō and marvel at the lake, a giant crater formed following a volcanic eruption in the year 180 CE. As you approach the town, be sure to stop at Huka Falls to view the spectacular sight of hundreds of cubic metres of water spilling every second down the narrow 11 metre drop. For an extra thrill take a jet-boat ride at the base of the falls. Leaving Taupō, follow the road as it climbs the rugged Ahimanawa Range before descending back down the Pacific Coast to art deco coastal township of Napier.

Craters of the Moon Geothermal Walk

Located a few minutes north of Taupō this geothermal park known as Craters of the Moon has a great self guided 30 minute walk through steaming craters and bubbling mud pools. Well marked walkways with interpretive boards guide you through one of the regions many active volcanic parks.

Napier City

Napier, a coastal gem, is famed for its 1930s Art Deco architecture, the annual Art Deco Weekend, stately Norfolk pines, nearby wineries, and fresh local produce. With a Mediterranean climate and over 2,200 hours of sunshine annually, it boasts a thriving café culture set against stunning heritage buildings. The city center has around 30 cafés within walking distance, while Ahuriri, just beyond Bluff Hill, offers more upscale dining. Marine Parade overlooks the Pacific Ocean and Cape Kidnappers, home to the world’s largest mainland gannet colony. Visitors can explore Ocean Spa, the Hawke's Bay Museum, and the National Aquarium of New Zealand
Bluff Hill, a key landmark, provides sweeping views of Napier, Perfume Point, Westshore Beach, and the busy Port of Napier, which exports timber, fruit, and meat worldwide.
In 1931, Napier was devastated by a 7.8-magnitude earthquake, New Zealand’s worst natural disaster. Fires ravaged the city. Rebuilding efforts transformed Napier and Hastings into modern cities, while the uplifted Ahuriri Lagoon created much-needed land for expansion.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Triple Chocolate Dipper Tour with the Silky Oak Chocolate Company

A true chocolate indulgence combining chocolate tasting at Silky Oak Chocolate factory shop, entry into the Chocolate "Thru' the Ages" Museum, a Chocolate drink (or tea/coffee), chocolate muffin/ slice, served with liquid chocolate and cream at their Café.  You'll be presented with a bonus take-home gift - chocolate of course! This is chocolate overload for serious chocoholics!

Walking tracks in and around Hawkes Bay

Hawke's Bay offers a variety of scenic walks, from coastal paths to forest trails, perfect for exploring the region's natural beauty. Whether you're looking for a short stroll or a more challenging hike, there's something for everyone. Be sure to check with the Department of Conservation for current conditions before heading out.

Explore Hawkes Bay

Discover Hawke’s Bay, known in Māori as Te Matau-a-Māui or the fish hook of Māui. This is a region renowned for its Mediterranean charm, iconic Art Deco architecture, and award-winning wineries. Explore Mission Estate, the birthplace of New Zealand wine, or tour vineyards for a deeper dive into its winemaking legacy. Fans of the 1930s can enjoy a Vintage Car Tour, showcasing Napier’s architectural gems. Outdoor enthusiasts can cycle over 200km of scenic trails or unwind at pristine beaches like Ocean and Waimarama. Indulge your taste buds with local delights, from honey and chocolate to fresh orchard produce. The Hawkes Bay is also home to an abundance of wildlife, head out on a Gannet Safari or educate yourself at the National Aquarium of New Zealand. 

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Hawkes Bay Half Day Wine Tour with Grape Escape

This wine tasting tour is designed for casual imbibers and wine aficionados. Meet like-minded people and share an appreciation of Hawke's Bay's fantastic wines. Taste great wines made with passion and learn of the areas unique growing conditions. Take home outstanding wines and wonderful memories. Join a fun filled wine tasting afternoon in the sun driving through absolutely stunning scenery. Meet like-minded people and share an appreciation of this region's fantastic wine. Visit four to five wineries and enjoy a cheese platter on the grounds of the Ngatarawa Vineyard beside the lily pond.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Cape Coast Winery Tour with Takaro Trails

Cycle one of Hawke’s Bay’s most scenic coastal trails, visiting some of the region’s best wineries along the way. Starting in Clifton near Cape Kidnappers, you’ll enjoy ocean views, riverside trails, charming coastal villages, and tastings at renowned wineries such as Clearview Estate, Elephant Hill, Askerne, Te Mata Estate, and Black Barn. Take time for a relaxed lunch at a vineyard or café, then finish your day with a return shuttle to Napier. Includes e-bike hire, helmet, pannier, maps, and start/end shuttles. Wine tasting costs extra.

Napier to Martinborough

As you leave the rolling countryside of the Hawke's Bay you'll be greeted with some of the country's richest dairy farmland in the Manawatu Gorge. Continue on through the Wairarapa region and stop in the Pukaha Mount Bruce Wildlife Centre, where you can see some of New Zealand native animals. Take another break in Masterson, and visit the interactive Woolshed Museum to learn about sheep farming in New Zealand. As you drive south, a visit to historic Greytown is a must-do. Take in the restored Victorian buildings and make time for a cup of tea at one of its quaint cafes. Leaving state highway 2 you will cross over the Ruamahanga River into Martinborough wine country your destination for the day.

Martinborough

Known for producing some of the world's finest wines, the Martinborough region is home to over 30 vineyards, many of which are easily accessible from the town center. A great way to begin your exploration is at the Martinborough Wine Centre, where you can sample wines from all the local labels and plan your itinerary. For a more relaxed experience, consider booking a guided tour so you can fully enjoy the tastings without having to drive.
In 2023, Martinborough was designated as a Dark Sky Reserve, a rare honor that highlights the exceptional quality of its night sky. This celestial status adds another layer of magic to the area, inviting you to pair the region's exquisite wines with an evening of spectacular stargazing.

Star Safari with Milky-Way.Kiwi

Embark on a celestial adventure in Wairarapa's awe-inspiring night skies with top-tier telescopes and Hari and Sam, as they provide an unrivalled night sky experience. Proudly operating from within the world's 21st Dark Sky Reserve, the Star Safari Observatory is nestled between Martinborough and Carterton, offering a perfect retreat from light pollution and revealing a dazzling array of celestial wonders.

Martinborough to Wellington City

Cross the Remutaka Ranges as you make your way to New Zealand's capital city, Wellington. Often compared to Melbourne, Wellington is vibrant cultural hub.Home to the nation’s centre of government. Legislation happens in the aptly named ‘Beehive,’ an executive wing attached to the Houses of Parliament. At 1km squared, the city centre (easily traversed on foot) has an international feel and is peppered with underground art shows, alleyway cafes and New York style delis. Take in the boardwalk view as you stroll to Te Papa Museum or indulge your cinematic side exploring Weta Workshop, the Oscar Award winning design studio for Lord Of The Rings. For a taste of vintage fashion, spend some time (and dollars!) on Cuba Street browsing the boutiques. Work off last night’s dinner with a cycling tour of Oriental Bay and undo your good work with a Hokey Pokey ice-cream in the sun. For those heading further down, the capital is where you board the ferry crossing the Cook Strait to the South Island.

Wellington

Wellington known in Māori as Te Whanganui-a-Tara is home to New Zealand’s centre of government. Often referred to as ‘mini Melbourne', this windy city is a melting pot of art, culture, food, and fashion. Quirky laneway bars, underground art shows, and hipster eateries make up its inner-city vibe, while a host of sandy beaches outside the urban bustle bring a cheerful holiday feel. Head to Te Papa Museum for a history lesson and a ticket to one of its many international exhibitions or jump aboard the Wellington Cable Car - the only running funicular railway in the country. For those with an eye for boutique, fashion wander through Cuba St to sample some of the city's best vintage stores. Break for coffee at a hipster cafe and be sure to snap a pic outside the ‘Beehive,’ New Zealand’s parliamentary debate chamber. Go behind the scenes at Weta Workshop Experience, the Oscar Award Winning design studio behind Lord Of The Rings, The Hobbit, and Avatar. If you're a foodie at heart, a two-hour round trip to Martinborough is a must-do. Take your time as you wind through spectacular wine country. For an educational day out, learn about New Zealand's native species at Zealandia, the world's first fully-fenced eco-sanctuary and home to over 40 types of endangered and native birds.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Wellington Cable Car

Take a ride on the historic Wellington Cable Car and enjoy stunning views of the city and harbour, Te Whanganui-a-Tara, as you ascend Kelburn Hill in just five minutes. At the top, visit the Cable Car Museum to see the original machinery and watch a short film about its history, or browse the gift shop. Just a short walk away, Space Place at Carter Observatory offers interactive exhibits and a digital planetarium exploring the Southern skies. If you have time, stroll back down through the scenic Wellington Botanic Garden.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Wētā Workshop Experience

Wētā Workshop has been making cool stuff for film and TV since 1987. The crew has brought to life beloved characters and epic special effects for iconic blockbusters like The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Avatar and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.​​​
Step into Wētā Workshop Experiences and explore a world of creativity, physical effects and movie magic on a guided tour through our creative home base. You'll learn about the making of props, creatures and costumes created for your favourite films. Get hands-on with unique pieces from many departments, catch the artists at work and discover how Weta have grown into the award-winning workshop you see today.   

Taste Buds for Foodies Private Tour with Capital Personalised Tour - Lunch Included

The name says it all - if you're a foodie (well, aren't we all?) this is the tour for you. Discover locally-made treats and secret spots in Petone and Wellington. Price will include lunch with refreshments plus tasting fees.

Return your vehicle to Wellington Airport

Explore more of Wellington before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.

Farewell from Aotearoa / New Zealand

Bid farewell to Aotearoa / New Zealand, taking with you unforgettable memories of its breathtaking landscapes and incredible adventures. In Māori, it is said mā te wā, which is not goodbye, it is see you soon!