We depart Auckland at 8.30am and head north.

Our fist stop is lunch at the Whangarei town Basin where there are ample eateries to choose between and a pleasant opportunity to stretch your legs and browse around the shops. 

Next, we travel to the Kawiti glow worm caves where we have a 30 minute guided tour through the amazing untouched caves. 

And lastly, we arrive at our well appointed hotel in Paihia –  conveniently located next to town with a lovely pool, opposite the beach. This will be our “home” for the next 5 nights so you can unpack your bag and get ready for santa!

Today we venture off to Kerikeri, enjoy morning tea at the Rusty Tractor Café and visit the old stone store (NZ's oldest stone building).

Afterwards, we travel to Marsden Estate vineyard for a plattered lunch and wine tasting. It was here that Samuel Marsden planted the first grapes nearly 2 centuries ago!

After lunch we return “home” for a swim or nap before  heading off for a real Christmas Eve treat –

a special Maori concert at the Marae followed by a Hangi feast at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

This morning we head out on the sparkling water to the famous Hole in the Rock, hopefully seeing dolphins along the way. 

On our return “home” we will have a kiwi sausage sizzle beside the pool and the afternoon is free to rest, swim or wander into town. 

Later, get your glad rags on and meet in the bar for a pre Christmas dinner drink before indulging in a festive feast prepared by the hotel we call "home".

Put your feet up and relax – today is your day. Choose to catch the ferry to the charming historic town of Russell or simply relax by the pool and spy any dolphins that may swim into the bay.

Tonight, dinner will be on the water. Enjoy a leisurely 2 ½ hour cruise up the Waitangi river to Huru Falls and enjoy beautiful locally sourced seafood and a BBQ of fish, steak or lamb. You will love this kiwi owned and operated fun night.

Up and at 'em – we're up early today as we head off for Cape Reinga (Te Rerenga Wairua).

You're never too old to sand surf as we drive off-road along ninety mile beach to the massive sand dunes at Te Paki Stream for some fun. Continuing our trip, we visit the ancient and majestic giant kauri trees and native bush at Puketi Kauri Forest.

We then reach our final destination, the iconic lighthouse at Cape Reinga to see where the Tasman and mighty Pacific come crashing together. Our guide will enlighten you with historic commentary and local Maori legends. 

Our lunch today will be some good old fashioned fish and chips at the historic Wagener Museum at Houhora!

Today, we say good bye to the beautiful Bay of Islands as we board the coach and head back to Auckland's big smoke.

We stop to take a break at Warkworth. The Mahurangi River flows through this township and was once the lifeblood of the village – our break here provides the ideal spot to strech your legs, explore the heritage town and grab a bite to eat.

After lunch, we continue our trip and finally bid each other farewell in the mid-afternoon sun.