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Tour · APT · 7 nights

Northern Explorer

  • Cruise through the Bay of Islands and see the famous Hole in the Rock
  • Descend into the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and witness a natural wonder
  • Immerse yourself in Māori culture and cuisine in Rotorua
From
$3,695 pp twin share
$5,495 pp solo share
7 nights
Departs 10 October 2026 Returns 19 May 2029
Duration7 nights
OperatorAPT
StyleTour
HighlightJourney through New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes and encounter the welcoming people of the North Island
Cruise to Cape Brett in the Bay of Islands. Visit Waitomo's glowworm caves. Māori cultural immersion in Rotorua

From Auckland to Wellington, journey through the breathtaking landscapes as you encounter the welcoming people of New Zealand's north island.

When & how much

Departures & Pricing

Departs
10 October 2026
Returns 19 May 2029
Returns
19 May 2029
Duration
7 nights
From pp twin share
$3,695 pp
From pp solo cabin
$5,495 pp
  • 10 Oct 2026 - 17 Oct 2026
    from $4,095 pp twin share / $6,195 pp solo *
  • 17 Oct 2026 - 24 Oct 2026
    from $4,095 pp twin share / $6,195 pp solo *
  • 24 Oct 2026 - 31 Oct 2026
    from $4,095 pp twin share / $6,195 pp solo *
  • 07 Nov 2026 - 14 Nov 2026
    from $4,095 pp twin share / $6,195 pp solo *
  • 14 Nov 2026 - 21 Nov 2026
    from $4,095 pp twin share / $6,195 pp solo *
  • 21 Nov 2026 - 28 Nov 2026
    from $4,095 pp twin share / $6,195 pp solo *
  • 28 Nov 2026 - 05 Dec 2026
    from $4,095 pp twin share / $6,195 pp solo *
  • 09 Jan 2027 - 16 Jan 2027
    from $4,095 pp twin share / $6,195 pp solo *
  • 16 Jan 2027 - 23 Jan 2027
    from $4,095 pp twin share / $6,195 pp solo *
  • 23 Jan 2027 - 30 Jan 2027
    from $4,095 pp twin share / $6,195 pp solo *
  • 06 Feb 2027 - 13 Feb 2027
    from $4,095 pp twin share / $6,195 pp solo *
  • 13 Feb 2027 - 20 Feb 2027
    from $4,095 pp twin share / $6,195 pp solo *
  • 20 Feb 2027 - 27 Feb 2027
    from $4,095 pp twin share / $6,195 pp solo *
  • 27 Feb 2027 - 06 Mar 2027
    from $4,095 pp twin share / $6,195 pp solo *
  • 06 Mar 2027 - 13 Mar 2027
    from $4,095 pp twin share / $6,195 pp solo *
  • 13 Mar 2027 - 20 Mar 2027
    from $4,095 pp twin share / $6,195 pp solo *
  • 20 Mar 2027 - 27 Mar 2027
    from $4,095 pp twin share / $6,195 pp solo *
  • 27 Mar 2027 - 03 Apr 2027
    from $4,095 pp twin share / $6,195 pp solo *
  • 03 Apr 2027 - 10 Apr 2027
    from $3,995 pp twin share / $5,995 pp solo *
  • 10 Apr 2027 - 17 Apr 2027
    from $3,995 pp twin share / $5,995 pp solo *
  • 17 Apr 2027 - 24 Apr 2027
    from $3,995 pp twin share / $5,995 pp solo *
  • 01 May 2027 - 08 May 2027
    from $3,695 pp twin share / $5,495 pp solo *
  • 04 Sep 2027 - 11 Sep 2027
    from $4,095 pp *
  • 11 Sep 2027 - 18 Sep 2027
    from $4,095 pp *
  • 18 Sep 2027 - 25 Sep 2027
    from $4,095 pp *
  • 25 Sep 2027 - 02 Oct 2027
    from $4,095 pp *
  • 02 Oct 2027 - 09 Oct 2027
    from $4,195 pp *
  • 16 Oct 2027 - 23 Oct 2027
    from $4,195 pp *
  • 23 Oct 2027 - 30 Oct 2027
    from $4,195 pp *
  • 06 Nov 2027 - 13 Nov 2027
    from $4,195 pp *

* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.

Cabin grades, balcony upgrades and pre-cruise hotel options are quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Day by day

Itinerary

  1. 1

    Arrive Auckland

    Your unforgettable adventure begins as you touch down in Auckland, New Zealand's vibrant cultural and economic hub. Upon arrival, you will be warmly greeted and transferred to your premium hotel. Whether you're settling into your hotel room or heading out to explore Auckland’s vibrant dining and shopping precincts, your first day in Aotearoa is yours to enjoy at leisure.

  2. 2

    Auckland, Bay of Islands

    Embark on a scenic journey north through New Zealand’s lush landscapes, where you’ll pause to admire the awe-inspiring Kauri tree. Standing as one of the most magnificent living giants in the world, this ancient tree will leave you in awe with its towering presence and immense size. After this captivating encounter with nature, continue your journey to the breathtaking Bay of Islands, and enjoy a spectacular Insider Experience. As the sun sets, you’ll be treated to a specially curated Welcome Dinner, a celebration of local cuisine and the finest regional flavours, offering a taste of the exquisite culinary experiences that await you on this extraordinary journey.

    Insider Experience – Take a cruise to Cape Brett in the Bay of Islands

    Keep an eye out for sea life encounters as you cruise through the Bay of Islands on the north-eastern coast of New Zealand's North Island. Set sail from Paihia and journey along the dramatic Cape Brett Peninsula, gliding through the famous Hole in the Rock (conditions permitting).

  3. 3

    Bay of Islands

    The Bay of Islands, with its 144 islands, offers a stunning aquatic playground off the north-eastern coast of the North Island. Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore the subtropical surrounds. Your Tour Director is always on hand to offer some fantastic suggestions to make the most of your time here.

  4. 4

    Bay of Islands, Auckland

    Spend the morning in the stunning Bay of Islands before returning to Auckland by coach. With the rest of the afternoon free for you to spend at leisure, you may like to try one of our Enhance Your Journey select experiences (own expense); The All Blacks Experience or Wētā Workshop Unleashed.

    Enhance Your Journey – All Blacks Experience

    Take part in a guided tour that delves into the rich history and culture of one of the world’s most iconic sports teams. Delve into the stories of the people who have shaped the All Blacks into a powerful symbol of New Zealand’s national identity.

    Enhance Your Journey – Wētā Workshop Unleashed

    Go behind the scenes with the Academy Award-winning team at Wētā Workshop and learn how blockbuster films like The Hobbit are created.

  5. 5

    Auckland, Waitomo, Rotorua

    Travel to Waitomo and embark on a memorable Insider Experience. Continue on to Rotorua, where you'll have the evening free to enjoy at your leisure.

    Insider Experience – Visit Waitomo’s Glowworm Caves

    Descend into the caves beneath the lush Waitomo hills and look up to see a cavern illuminated with hundreds of tiny lights. A sight to behold, the phenomenon is the work of glowworms, which are unique to New Zealand.

  6. 6

    Rotorua

    Rotorua captures the essence of New Zealand with its geothermal geysers, fascinating Māori culture and rich heritage. Your sightseeing continues with a visit to the Agrodome, where you’ll meet animals and learn about life in rural New Zealand. Alternatively, you may like to partake in our Enhance Your Journey experience. This evening, enjoy your Insider Experience.

    Insider Experience – Māori cultural immersion and geothermal wonders in Rotorua

    Immerse yourself in a unique evening of Māori culture, and cuisine at Te Puia. Embark on a guided tour through the historical geothermal valley, where you'll explore a stunning landscape of native bush, geysers, and mud pools. Feel the awe-inspiring power of Pōhutu Geyser, the largest geyser in the Southern Hemisphere. Experience an intimate encounter with one of New Zealand’s national treasures at the new Kiwi Conservation Centre. This evening, enjoy a Haka pōwhiri (cultural welcome), dance performances and sharing of a traditional meal of fish, lamb and vegetables slow-cooked in earth ovens known as Hāngī.

    Enhance Your Journey – Hobbiton Movie Set and Farm Tour

    Explore the iconic set from The Lord of the Rings films, featuring charming Hobbit Hole doors and the home of Frodo Baggins nestled in the hillsides (additional expense).

  7. 7

    Rotorua, Taupō, Wellington

    Travel the Thermal Explorer Highway and visit Lake Taupō and Huka Falls. Afterwards, journey to Wellington, the capital of New Zealand. This tightly knit city is home to a stunning waterfront promenade, sandy beaches, and quaint colourful timber houses on the surrounding hills.

  8. 8

    Depart Wellington

    Your New Zealand tour comes to an end after breakfast today.

What you get for the price

Inclusions & exclusions

What’s included

  • Take a cruise to Cape Brett in the Bay of Islands.
  • Visit Waitomo’s glowworm caves.
  • Māori Cultural Immersion in Rotorua.
Where you’ll stay

Accommodation

  • Novotel Wellington
  • Sudima Auckland City
  • Two Nights, Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands
  • Two Nights, Sudima Lake Rotorua
From the operator

Common questions about this voyage

How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 8 days and 7 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 10 Oct 2026 and 19 May 2029, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
Can I travel solo?
Solo pricing may be available on selected departures, and final options can be confirmed at enquiry.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
Ready to lock in?

Book this tour

Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.

Enquire about this tour
Travel at 60 Social Getaways

Travel further when you're not travelling alone

Our Social Getaways are small-group holidays designed especially for over-60s Australians who want the freedom of a great trip without the work of planning every detail. A Travel at 60 host travels with the group, the operator handles the logistics, and you get to focus on the bit that matters — the people, the places, and the stories you'll bring home.

Open to solo travellers too. Many of our travellers book on their own and find their feet quickly in a friendly group of like-minded Australians. Reduced single-supplement options are available on most departures — ask one of our consultants and we'll talk you through what's offered on this trip.

  • A friendly Travel at 60 host — an Australian face on the ground, looking out for the group from day one.
  • Curated local guides & boutique suppliers — the same operators we'd book for our own families.
  • Real itineraries, not whirlwind tours — comfortable transfers, breathing room, and the “off the beaten track” stops the big bus tours skip.

Want to talk it through? Call 1300 414 198 7 days a week, Queensland time, and one of our consultants will walk you through it.

— The team at Travel at 60

A Travel at 60 host with travellers on a Social Getaway
From (twin) $3,695 pp
From (solo) $5,495 pp
Enquire