Join us on this great journey through the North Island from Auckland to Wellington and explore volcanic geological peaks, burbling rivers and New Zealand's idyllic natural landscapes.
Highlights
- Experience the Volcanic Plateau by world-renowned Northern Explorer train journey
- Escape to the bioluminescent glowworm caves of Waitomo
- Witness the engineering marvels of Raurimu Spiral
- Encounter the volcanic peaks of Middle Earth in Tongariro National Park
- Marvel at the mesmerising coastal views of the Kapiti Coast
- Discover the sandstone cliffs of the Rangatikei River Gorge
- Be captivated by the storytelling of your Tour Director along this great journey
Travel Northbound: Wellington to Auckland Tours Available
You'll love this tour
This adventure is an enviable trip designed for those who want a stress-free, scenic journey like no other. Meet like-minded travellers while experiencing world-class activities in charming locations.
Inclusions
- Experienced Tour Director
- Hamilton Gardens Guided Tour and Picnic
- Raglan Dinner Cruise
- Santuary Mountain Wildlife Experience
- Glowworm Caves Guided Tour
- Volcanic Geology Experiences
- Wellington City Tour
- The Northern Explorer Scenic Train
*Please note: Tour inclusions may vary depending on the season of departure.
What you get along the way
Transportation
- Northern Explorer Scenic Train
- Private Coaches to reach regional gems
- Private shuttles (excluding airport arrival)
- Porterage
Meals
- 7 Breakfasts
- 1 Picnic Lunch
- 4 Dinners
- 3 Meals on the train
Accommodation
- 4 to 4.5 Star Hotel (7 nights)
- Twin Share
- Single Upgrade Available
Minimum Age:
- 16 years and over
- Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
Group Size
Maximum of 20 people.
- Northern Explorer Scenic Train
- Afternoon excursion to view Northern volcanic landscapes
- Northern Explorer Scenic Train
- Tūroa Volcanic Mountain Excursion
- Sanctuary Mountain Wildlife Experience
- Waitomo Glow-Worm Caves
- Raglan Sunset Dinner Cruise
- Northern Explorer Scenic Train
- Hamilton Gardens
- Farewell Dinner
Kia ora!
Welcome to Wellington – New Zealand’s windy capital! Wellington is known for its world-class dining, great coffee and eccentric shops.
After checking into your hotel and reading your welcome letter from your Tour Director, head out and explore all that Wellington has to offer. This is the perfect opportunity to get cultured at Te Papa Museum or grab a drink at one of the many quirky bars on Cuba Street. You may even fancy a ride on the cable car!
After an exciting day on the town, your tour will officially begin as you join your fellow travelers and Tour Director at this evening’s welcome reception.
Accommodation
4 – 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals Included
Dinner
Activities
Welcome Dinner
Wellington to National Park: The Northern Explorer
Today you’ll be heading north aboard the Northern Explorer Train to explore Tongariro National Park. Sit back and relax while the smooth train travels along the Kapiti Coast. You won’t want to get too comfortable though; dramatic rivers, gorges and ravines are just around the bend! Stretch your legs and explore the open-air carriage to get the best view of the fantastic scenery.
Upon arrival at National Park, you’ll venture on a mini excursion up Mt Ruapehu to a volcanic landscape. It’s here that your Tour Director will uncover the geological wonder that’s underfoot. If you’re a Lord of the Rings fan, make sure you capture a panoramic photo of Middle Earth before descending into Ohakune where you will stay for two nights. With a quick tour around town and the babbling river, the rest of the day is at your leisure.
Accommodation
4 – 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Ohakune)
Meals
Breakfast, Scenic Plus Train Dining Experience, Dinner
Activities Included
Discover Tongariro National Park
Today is free for you to discover one of Ohakune’s exciting excursions. Choose from the many optional activities on offer and personalise your perfect holiday. Perhaps you will hop aboard a historical rail cart journey or join a horse trekking experience that takes you along expansive hills, mountains, rivers and into the native bush.
If you're after an active day, why not explore Ohakune’s historical cycle trail? Rent e-bikes and discover old viaducts, tunnels, old settlers’ camps and reclaimed native forests along the Old Coach Road!
Accommodation
4 – 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Ohakune)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Volcanoes to City Life
Joining the Northern Explorer train once again, today you’ll soar over icy mountain streams as you travel to Hamilton.
Tonight, explore Hamilton's riverside walks and shops on this free evening. Enjoy one of the many nearby restaurants as the sun sets on the Waikato River.
Accommodation
4 – 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Hamilton)
Meals
Breakfast, Scenic Plus Train Dining Experience, Dinner
Activities Included
Discover Endangered and Bioluminescent Species
Dazzled by Nature
This morning you will depart for your next exciting excursion - Maungatautiri Sanctuary Mountain.
Let your guide transport you into an ancient world of ecological wonders as you explore New Zealand’s very own pest-free environment. On this excursion, you will learn about New Zealand’s native forests, and visit the home of the most endangered species in the country. This pre-human paradise has one of the world’s longest pest-proof fences.
Your expedition continues after a lunch stop in New Zealand’s “Kiwiana Capital”, Otorohanga. Make sure you capture a photo of the giant Kiwi birds! Next, discover the famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves in the Waikato and be dazzled by the seemingly star-filled sky as you glide by boat through this impressive cave formation.
This evening, enjoy a highlight dinner aboard the Raglan Sunset Cruise. As you glide upon the beautiful Whaingaroa Harbour, indulge in the local cuisine served.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 Nights in Hamilton)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Lush Gardens and Your Final Train Journey
After a relaxing morning, depart for the spectacular Hamilton Gardens. Engross yourself in the garden’s collection of themed rooms as you are led by an experienced guide. Learn about the history, context and meaning of each garden before finishing this delightful morning with a picnic on the lush lawns. Surrounded by beauty, you will be in utter bliss.
Mid-afternoon and back aboard the Northern Explorer, you’ll soar over the icy mountain streams of Ruapehu and traverse into the Waikato, famous for its dairy farming and green pastures.
Accommodation
4 – 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 nights)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Scenic Plus Train Dining Experience
Activities Included
Explore Auckland
Enjoy Auckland
Enjoy a final hurrah this evening as we close this adventure of a lifetime over a farewell dinner.
Activities Included
Departing Auckland
Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast with your fellow travelers.
Not ready to leave Auckland? Reach out to our Travel Centre to pre-organise your extended stay.
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities
Transfer to airport
- Northern Explorer Scenic Train Experience
- Hamilton Gardens Guided Tour including a picnic lunch
- Raglan Sunset Dinner Cruise
- Sanctuary Mountain Wildlife Experience
- Waitomo Glowworm Caves
- Northern Explorer Scenic Train Experience
- Afternoon excursion to view northern volcanic landscapes
- Northern Explorer Scenic Train
- Morning excursion to view southern volcanic landscapes
- Wellington City Introduction Tour
- Farewell Dinner
Explore Auckland
Kia Ora!
Welcome to Auckland, New Zealand’s City of Sails! Auckland is known for its multicultural hub of food, music, arts, and culture.
After checking into your hotel and reading your welcome letter from your Tour Director, head out and explore all that Auckland has to offer. This is the perfect opportunity to visit the Sky Tower or shop along bustling Queen Street. You may even fancy a drink in one of the charming bars or eateries of Vulcan Lane.
Your tour officially begins this evening, as you join your fellow travellers and Tour Director this evening for a welcome dinner.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 Night)
Meals Included
Dinner with Welcome Drink
Activities
Welcome Dinner
The Northern Explorer Scenic Train
The Beginning of your Scenic Journey
Your journey awaits as you join the Northern Explorer scenic train. Marvel at rural New Zealand’s lush landscapes from the comfort of your scenic carriage. From the sparkling waters of the Waitemata Harbour to the green pastures of the Waikato – you won’t want to miss a moment.
Arriving in Hamilton, your coach awaits you to bring you to the famous Hamilton Gardens. Engross yourself in the garden’s collection of themed rooms as you are led by an experienced guide. Learn about the history, context, and meaning of each garden before finishing this delightful morning with a picnic on the lush lawns. Surrounded by beauty, you will be in utter bliss.
In the early afternoon, enjoy some free time in the heart of Hamilton before departing for an evening visit to Raglan – a seaside surfer town. It’s here that you’ll enjoy a Sunset Dinner Cruise on the pristine harbour.
Please note: The tour departing January 27, 2025 will journey by coach from Auckland to Hamilton (2hrs)
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 Nights in Hamilton)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activities
Discover Endangered and Bioluminescent Species
Dazzled by Nature
This morning you will depart for your next exciting excursion – Maungatautari Sanctuary Mountain.
Let your guide transport you into an ancient world of ecological wonders as you explore New Zealand’s very own pest-free environment, within native forest. On this excursion, you will walk through the home of some of New Zealand’s most endangered species. Discover North Island’s robins, tomtits, kākā, pōpokotea, bellbirds, hihi, tīeke, fantails, kereru and wētā. This pre-human paradise has one of the world’s longest pest-proof fences.
Your expedition continues after a lunch stop in New Zealand’s “Kiwiana Capital”, Otorohanga. Make sure you capture a photo of the giant Kiwi birds! Next, discover the famous Waitomo Glow worm Caves and be dazzled by the seemingly star-filled sky as you glide by boat through this impressive cave formation.
Tonight, explore Hamilton's riverside walks and shops on this free evening. Enjoy one of the many nearby restaurants as the sun sets over the Waikato River.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 Nights in Hamilton)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities
Explore Tongariro National Park
Joining the Northern Explorer train once again, today you’ll soar over icy mountain streams as you travel to Tongariro National Park, the home of three volcanic mountains.
Tongariro National Park has a diverse range of ecosystems and spectacular landscapes. In 1993, it was recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and was the first property to be inscribed with the criteria describing the cultural values it holds for Māori.
Enjoy a mini excursion up to Tūroa ski field. Here you'll want to capture a panoramic photo of Middle Earth before descending into Ohakune.
Tonight, enjoy a special dinner with your fellow travellers.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Tongariro National Park)
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Explore Tongariro National Park
Today is free for you to discover one of the region's many exciting excursions. Choose from the optional activities on offer and personalise your perfect holiday. Perhaps you will hop aboard a rail cart journey or join a horse trekking experience that takes you along expansive hills, mountains, rivers and into native bush.
If you're after an active day, why not explore Ohakune’s historical cycle trail? Rent e-bikes and discover old viaducts, tunnels, old settlers’ camps and reclaimed native forests along the Old Coach Road.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Ohakune)
Meals Included
Breakfast
The Northern Explorer Scenic Train
Your day begins with an elevated experience up the northern face of Mt Ruapehu for panoramic views of the volcanic landscape. Drink in the views of Mt Ngāuruhoe, Mt Tongariro, and beyond across the central North Island.
Joining the Northern Explorer train once again, waving goodbye to Tongariro National Park, as you settle into your uber-comfortable seat. Don’t get too comfortable though; dramatic rivers, gorges, and ravines are just around the bend! Stretch your legs and explore the open-air carriage to get the best view from the train.
A little later, why not indulge in a treat from our onboard licensed café? As you glide through rich green farmland and past dramatic coastlines, enjoy the picturesque Porirua Harbour as you arrive into Wellington.
Welcome to Wellington – New Zealand’s windy capital! You’ve arrived at Wellington Railway Station, which is just a stone’s throw from downtown, the Beehive and Parliament Buildings. You won't want to waste a moment of time after checking into the hotel – your evening is free to explore this culinary capital from Queen’s Wharf to Cuba street and beyond.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Wellington)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities
Explore Wellington
The perfect day does exist – and it includes exploring Wellington!
Today is free for you to experience vibrant Wellington as you please. Start by joining our Wellington City introduction tour and then head off to explore Cuba Street’s cafés, bookstores, and eccentric shops. Get cultured at Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum, or visit Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary to surround yourself by native birdlife and regenerating forest. You won’t get bored with the plethora of activities on offer. From coffee, culture, historic buildings to botanic gardens and much more… the list goes on! If you need any suggestions or recommendations, just reach out to your helpful Tour Director or our Travel Centre to pre-book an experience.
This evening is your final hurrah as you enjoy a farewell dinner. This is the perfect time to reminisce and share photos and phone numbers with your new friends.
Accommodation
4 – 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Wellington)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Departing Wellington
Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast at your hotel.
Not ready to leave Wellington? Reach out to our Travel Centre to pre-organise your extended stay.
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities
Transfer to airport
Included activities
Our Signature Auckland to Wellington tour includes some of New Zealand's best-loved activities:
Included journeys
Our Signature Auckland to Wellington tour includes one of the greatest journeys in New Zealand - the Northern Explorer.
Journey highlights
The journey is part of the destination on our tours, and our Scenic trains are the ultimate way to see New Zealand.
On our Signature Auckland to Wellington tour, your journey will begin aboard the Northern Explorer, leaving the towering Auckland skyline behind you and setting out across the mighty Waikato plains.
From Hamilton, your journey spirals up onto the volcanic plateau around the historic Raurimu Spiral. At the top, you will cruise beneath three mighty volcanic peaks before slowly descending across several soaring viaducts.
Your final journey brings you along the sparkling Kapiti Coast on your way into our glittering capital city, Wellington.
Available Dates
Tour Code: SAW
Our Signature Auckland to Wellington tour departs on the following dates. To book your spot, either call us on +64 3 341 2698 or click the Book Now button and complete the enquiry form. You can choose to pay a 20% deposit and then pay the balance 66 days before departure.
Start Auckland
11 SEPT 2024
days
8
Finish Wellington
18 SEPT 2024
NZ$
6549
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
2 OCT 2024
days
8
Finish Wellington
9 OCT 2024
NZ$
6549
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
29 OCT 2024
days
8
Finish Auckland
5 NOV 2024
NZ$
6699
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
30 OCT 2024
days
8
Finish Wellington
6 NOV 2024
NZ$
6549
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
22 JAN 2025
days
8
Finish Wellington
29 JAN 2025
NZ$
6549
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
27 JAN 2025
days
8
Finish Wellington
3 FEB 2025
NZ$
6549
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
19 FEB 2025
days
8
Finish Wellington
26 FEB 2025
NZ$
6549
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
25 FEB 2025
days
8
Finish Auckland
4 MAR 2025
NZ$
6749
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
12 MAR 2025
days
8
Finish Wellington
19 MAR 2025
NZ$
6549
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
9 APR 2025
days
8
Finish Wellington
16 APR 2025
NZ$
6549
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
1 APR 2025
days
8
Finish Auckland
8 APR 2025
NZ$
6699
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
16 APR 2025
days
8
Finish Wellington
23 APR 2025
NZ$
6549
per person
twin/share
Solo Traveller Options
Guaranteed Share: If you are a solo traveller, you can choose the guaranteed Share option, and we will match you with another solo traveller of the same gender in a twin-bedded room. If we can't match you with another solo traveller, we will cover the Single Supplement cost.
Single Supplement: If you are a Solo Traveller and would like a room to yourself, you can select to pay the Single Supplement when confirming your booking.
Symbol Key
This tour date is guaranteed to depart
Single supplement available
Hurry! This tour is either almost sold out or close to departure
Northbound Tour: This tour travels from South to North
Important Information
Any questions?
Whether it's pricing, availability, future dates, tour options or extended itineraries, our super-friendly and knowledgeable Travel Centre team is on hand to answer your questions and help build your perfect New Zealand holiday.
Give us a call or contact us online, we can't wait to hear from you.
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