Explore the sub-tropical, white sandy beaches on the northern tip of New Zealand if you have a week or more to fill between games.
- Tobogganing down the giant sand dunes at Te Paki
- Exploring the ancient buried Kauri forest
- Seeing first hand where New Zealand’s historic Treaty of Waitangi was signed
YOUR JOURNEY STARTS HERE
Day 1 Whangarei is just a short drive from Auckland, but this sleepy seaside town feels worlds away. With laid-back shopping and dining, enjoy the small-town atmosphere. Stay the night at the Whangarei TOP 10.
Day 2 Spend the day exploring the Whangarei Heads: a stunning area of native bush, dramatic volcanic peaks and brilliant blue coastline. Take the trek up Mt Manaia for the best views in the area.
Day 3 The Bay of Islands is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful parts of New Zealand. Take a cruise of the blue-green waters with an operator out of Paihia. Head to the historic town of Russell for dinner and check in at the Russell TOP 10.
Day 4
The Bay of Islands definitely deserves two days. Explore the delightful little towns of Russell and Paihia. And you should certainly stop by Waitangi for a first-hand look at the spot New Zealand’s founding document was signed in 1842.
Day 5 Drive all the way up to Cape Reinga: the top of the North Island. Watch the dramatic clash of tides as the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean collide. Head back down to the Whatuwhiwhi TOP 10 to spend the night. Before you leave, be sure to check out New Zealand’s northernmost winery. If you are adventurous at heart, you might also want to toboggan down the 100metre high sand dunes at Te Paki, or visit Gumdigger’s Park, location of an ancient buried kauri forest.
Day 6 The Kauri Coast, on the west side of Northland, is home to wild beaches and stunning native forests. Stop at Waipoua Forest on your way south to see Tane Mahuta: New Zealand’s most famous tree. This kauri is a giant among the park’s other ancient trees, some up to 2000 years old. Stay at the Kauri Coast TOP 10 and get to know some of the locals.
Day 7 On your way back to Auckland, stop in quaint little Paparoa, a lovely little village where you can get a feel for rural New Zealand life. It may be small, but an influx of tourism means the town has some great options for lunch. Get back to Auckland and settle down at the Orewa TOP 10 or the Manukau TOP 10 before returning to the big smoke.