Friday 4 December. Our 8-day summer adventure begins as we depart Auckland, heading north before turning west toward Dargaville. We visit the renowned Kauri Museum in Matakohe, discovering the remarkable history of the mighty kauri tree.

Next, we stop at the beautiful Kai Iwi Lakes for a relaxing afternoon tea beside the clear freshwater lakes.

Continuing to Omapere on the shores of the Hokianga Harbour, we’re greeted by a breathtaking view of the golden Hokianga Sand Dunes (Te Pouahi) rising across the water. We check in at The Sands Hotel, where every room enjoys sweeping harbour views – a stunning place to start our Northland escape.

Dinner.

Saturday 5 December. This morning we cruise the Hokianga Harbour with our local skipper, learning about the ecology of the vast sand dunes, the harbour entrance and its shifting bar, and the small settlements dotted along the shoreline.

After lunch, we visit Footprints of Kupe at Māngungu Mission, where we hear the story of Kupe’s arrival in Aotearoa and gain insight into early Māori navigation and settlement, all set high above the harbour with sweeping views.

Following a rest at the hotel, we head into the Waipoua Forest at twilight for a guided visit to Tāne Mahuta. In the quiet of early evening, we experience the majesty and spiritual presence of this ancient kauri in a truly memorable setting. 

Breakfast, Dinner.

Sunday 6 December. This morning we farewell Omapere and travel to Rawene, where we board the car ferry to Kohukohu, enjoying a short crossing of the Hokianga Harbour. From here, we journey north through Kaitaia and on to Doubtless Bay.

Our destination is Pekerau Hills Coffee Farm, home to New Zealand’s only commercial coffee plantation. We join the passionate owners for a guided tour, learning about the growing, harvesting and roasting process in this unique Far North climate. Afterward, we enjoy a relaxed lunch with our hosts, taking in sweeping views over the Karikari Peninsula and the Pacific Ocean.

Later, we make the short drive to Mangōnui, where we settle in for a three-night stay in our quaint beachfront accommodation – the perfect base to explore the far north.

(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).

Monday 7 December. Today we experience the magic of the Far North. Travelling along rugged 90 Mile Beach, we take in the dramatic west coast scenery before arriving at the towering dunes of Te Paki. Enjoy the vast sandscapes and watch as the more adventurous try their hand at sand-boarding down the giant golden slopes.

We continue north to Cape Reinga, a place of deep spiritual significance for Māori, where the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean dramatically collide. With sweeping panoramic views and powerful coastal landscapes, this is a true highlight of the journey.

After a full day of spectacular scenery and fresh sea air, we return to Mangōnui for an easy dinner and a relaxed evening. 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Tuesday 8 December. Today we slow the pace and enjoy a relaxed morning before heading out to explore the beautiful Karikari Peninsula. This stunning stretch of coastline feels worlds away, with its brilliant turquoise waters and squeaky white sand beaches underfoot.

We enjoy a lovely lunch at Carrington Estate, overlooking the prestigious golf course and out to the Pacific Ocean — a spectacular setting to unwind and take in the views.

This evening, we keep things delightfully simple with classic fish and chips from the famous Mangōnui Fish Shop, a true Northland icon.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Wednesday 9 December. Farewell Mangōnui and hello the Bay of Islands. Travelling south along the East Coast, we enjoy the stunning coastal bays and seaside scenery on our way to Paihia.

We visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, exploring the museums and historic grounds where New Zealand’s founding document was signed. After time to wander the waterfront in Paihia, we take the short ferry ride across the bay to the charming historic village of Russell.

For othe next two nights, we stay at the iconic Duke of Marlborough Hotel, right on the waterfront. As the sun sets over the wharf, we relax and soak up the atmosphere before enjoying a memorable dinner in this landmark Northland destination. 

Breakfast, Dinner.

Thursday 10 December. Today is yours to enjoy at leisure in the beautiful Bay of Islands. You may choose to join an optional local experience such as a cruise to the famous Hole in the Rock, a dolphin-watching tour, a spot of fishing, or a ferry ride back to Paihia to browse its boutique shops and waterfront cafés. Alternatively, you might prefer to stay in Russell, explore its historic streets and galleries, or simply relax beneath a shady pōhutukawa tree with a good book.

This evening, we come together for a special farewell aboard Darrell’s Sunset Dinner Cruise. Cruising gently through the sheltered waters of the bay, we watch as the sky transforms into hues of gold and pink over the surrounding islands. With attentive hospitality, delicious cuisine, and the peaceful rhythm of the sea, it’s a magical way to celebrate our Northland journey and toast new friendships made along the way.

Breakfast, Dinner.

Friday 11 December. With bags packed, we begin our journey south, homeward bound. In Kawakawa, we visit the private property of Friedensreich Hundertwasser, gaining special insight into the life and inspirations of this renowned Austrian-born artist and architect who chose the Bay of Islands as his home.

Celebrated for his bold colours, organic forms and philosophy of harmony between nature and design, Hundertwasser left a remarkable creative legacy in the Far North. During our visit, we explore the property, reflect on his work, and pay our respects at his final resting place.

Arriving back in Auckland, we share our final farewells after a wonderful eight days exploring the very best of Northland.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.