Join us on a scenic rail journey through the changing landscapes of New Zealand's North Island. Experience sensory delights as you explore gardens, lavender farms, and vineyards, immersing yourself in rich cultural experiences. Discover the essence of New Zealand through its food, wine, and culture aboard our train adventure.
Highlights
- Experience a tea ceremony and Signature High Tea at Zealong Tea Estate
- Indulge in a sensory journey amidst fields of fragrant lavender
- Immerse yourself in Maori culture with a guided tour at Te Papa Kanaki, gaining insight into New Zealand's indigenous heritage
- Glide through the Volcanic Plateau by world-renowned Northern Explorer train journey
- Witness the engineering marvels of Raurimu Spiral
You'll love this tour
This adventure is an enviable trip designed for food enthusiasts, wine lovers, and cultural explorers who seek a unique and immersive experience in New Zealand.
Inclusions
- Waiheke Wine & Dine Tour
- Cultural Experience: Secrets of the Tautari & Rongoa Rakau
- Zealong Tea Estate Tour, Tea Ceremony & Signature High Tea
- Hamilton Gardens Guided Tour
- Lunch at Lauren's Lavender with time to explore
- Cultural Experience: Te Papa Kanaki Maori Tour
- Northern Explorer Scenic Train Journey including Scenic Plus Dining Experience
Price per person - share twin
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
- 4 Lunches
- 4 Dinners
- 1 Scenic Plus Rail Dining Experience
Accommodation
- 4 to 4.5 Star Hotel (8 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
Welcome to Auckland
Kia Ora!
Your unforgettable journey starts in Auckland. Check-in to your hotel then enjoy a warm welcome from your tour guide. Dive into the experience, meeting your fellow travelers and exclusive tour guide, enjoying refreshing welcome drinks at the hotels vibrant bar.
Then, indulge in a delightful welcome dinner at a nearby restaurant, immersing yourself in the local flavors. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll back to the hotel, anticipating the exciting adventures awaiting you.
Stay tuned as your guide unveils tomorrow's enchanting voyage to Waiheke Island.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 Nights in Auckland)
Meals Included
Welcome drink, Dinner.
Discover Waiheke
Indulge in a leisurely breakfast at your hotel.
Today, embark on a journey with the Waiheke Island Wine & Dine experience. Gather in the lobby your hotel, where your guide awaits to escort you on a stroll to the ferry terminal.
Board the 9am ferry, setting sail for Waiheke Island on a 40-minute voyage. Upon arrival, join your guide for an insightful bus tour around the island, absorbing the scenery and local commentary.
Pause for a moment of culinary delight at Stonyridge, where lunch awaits, accompanied by a glass of wine. Delve into the island's charm as your guide explains the freedom to explore aboard the Waiheke hop-on-hop-off bus at your leisure.
As the day unfolds, continue your island exploration independently or join your guide for a ferry ride back to Auckland city at a designated time.
Whether you choose to extend your island adventure or return with the group, today promises an unforgettable escapade filled with culinary delights and scenic wonders.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 Nights in Auckland)
Meals Included
Breakfast, lunch.
Activities
Fullers 360 Wine & Dine
Explore Waikato, Hamilton & Surrounds
Wake up to breakfast at your hotel, setting the perfect tone for a day of exploration and discovery.
In the morning you'll board your luxury coach as we whisk you away to the captivating Sanctuary Mountain. Along the journey, we'll make a brief stop for a quick morning tea or coffee break, ensuring you're energized for the adventures ahead.
Immerse yourself in the wonders of Sanctuary Mountain with a bespoke two-hour tour blending the enchanting Secrets of the Tautari Wetland and the fascinating Rongoa Rakau, offering insights into Maori medicinal practices. Prepare for an unforgettable journey into the heart of New Zealand's natural and cultural heritage.
After our sanctuary adventure, we return to Hamilton City where you'll check in to your hotel.
With the afternoon free to explore, Hamilton beckons with its myriad of attractions and experiences, promising a relaxing and enriching continuation of your journey.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 Nights in Hamilton)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities
Sanctuary mountain
High teas and Highlights in the Gardens
Indulge in a delicious breakfast spread at your hotel to start the day.
Today our journey begins as we depart from Hamilton in style aboard our exclusive coach, as we travel to the enchanting Zealong Tea Estate, where an immersive 1.5-hour tour and tea ceremony await, followed by the renowned Signature High Tea experience. Discover the art of tea-making amidst breathtaking surroundings.
At midday, we bid farewell to Zealong and head to the Hamilton Gardens for a captivating 75-minute Highlights tour, commencing at 1 pm. Immerse yourself in the beauty and history of these renowned gardens. (Please note: No packed lunch included)
Our journey continues into the afternoon as we board our coach for a visit to the Hamilton Museum, where you'll have the opportunity to explore its treasures at your leisure.
After an enriching day of exploration, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Let your curiosity guide you as you uncover the wonders of Hamilton at your own pace.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 Nights in Hamilton)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities
Zealong Tea Estate tour & high tea
Hamilton Gardens Highlights tour
Hamilton Museum
Northern Explorer to Ohakune
Rise with an indulgent breakfast at your hotel before our adventure begins as we depart for Hamilton Frankton Station.
Embark on a journey like no other as we board the Northern Explorer train from Hamilton Station. Prepare for a feast for the senses with our Scenic Plus dining experience, offering unparalleled views and culinary delights.
Our train adventure leads us to Ohakune train station, where the next leg of our journey awaits. Embark on a scenic drive along the breathtaking Ohakune Mountain Road.
After a day of exploration, we return to your accommodation in Ohakune for the next two nights' stay.
As evening falls, indulge in culinary delight with a two-course dinner included for the entire group, promising a perfect end to an unforgettable day of adventure and discovery.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 Nights in Ohakune)
Meals Included
Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Activities
Northern Explorer Scenic Plus
Tour of Ohakune & Surrounds
Lunch in the Lavender
Enjoy the morning with breakfast at your accommodation.
Set off on a journey of discovery to Taumarunui.
Delight your senses with a visit to the Forgotten World Gardens. Enjoy the ambiance as you spend a few hours in Taumarunui, exploring a local garden before your lunchtime feast at Laurens Lavender Farm. Indulge in a hot meat dish accompanied by an array of refreshing salads, followed by a walk amidst the fragrant lavender fields and a visit to the lavender shop.
After your garden escapades, you'll return to Ohakune, where the evening is yours to spend how you like. Opt for relaxation in the inviting hot tubs or immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Ohakune at your leisure.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 Nights in Ohakune)
Meals Included
Breakfast, lunch.
Activities
Laurens Lavendar Farm
Northern Explorer Ohakune to Wellington
Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation.
Head away on an adventure, exploring the wonders of Turoa with the opportunity to ascend the Sky Waka (at your own cost), offering unparalleled views of the majestic landscape. Conclude your morning journey at National Park station, ready for the next leg of your adventure.
Embark on the Northern Explorer Scenic Plus experience from National Park to Wellington. Indulge in an afternoon tea and dinner served onboard the train, enhancing your journey breathtaking vistas.
As evening approaches, Tranzit will transfer you from Wellington Station to your Hotel where comfort and relaxation await, promising the perfect end to a day of discovery.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 Nights in Wellington)
Meals Included
Breakfast, lunch.
Activities
Tour of Turoa & National Park
Northern Explorer Scenic Plus
Culture and Dining in Wellington City
Start your day with breakfast at your accommodation and relax before starting a tour at Te Papa museum.
Step outside and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you cross the road to enter Te Papa, New Zealand's national museum.
Embark on a captivating journey with a 90-minute Maori Experience Kinaki Tour at Te Papa, led by a knowledgeable Maori guide. Explore the rich cultural heritage of Aotearoa New Zealand as you discover the unique tools, foods, and medicines of the Iwi taketake (first peoples of the land). Conclude your tour with a Kai, a traditional food tasting experience, and engaging conversations with your hosts.
The afternoon is yours to explore the charms of Wellington at your leisure, with optional activities awaiting your discovery.
Gather in the lobby of your hotel to welcome new guests joining the tour, fostering connections and shared experiences.
Indulge in an included dinner at a renowned Wellington restaurant, savoring culinary delights that reflect the vibrant flavors of New Zealand, promising a perfect end to an enriching day of exploration and cultural immersion.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (2 Nights in Wellington)
Meals Included
Breakfast, dinner.
Activities
Te Papa Kinaki Tour
Wellington Farewell
As your journey ends, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel letting you relish those last moments of your stay.
It's time to say goodbye as you check out of the hotel. As you prepare to depart, rest assured that your departure transfer is included, ensuring a seamless transition as you head towards your next destination.
Reflect on the memories created during your stay, carrying with you the experiences and adventures that have enriched your journey.
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included activities
Our Signature Flavourful North Tour includes many of New Zealand's must-do activities on your guided journey between Auckland and Wellington.
Journey highlights
On our flavourful Signature Auckland to Wellington tour, you will see it all, travelling aboard our world famous Northern Explorer.
Boarding in Auckland, your first few days include a series of journeys aboard our Northern Explorer train travelling through the volcanic heart of the North Island.
Available Dates
Our Signature New Zealand Up Close 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
16 MAR 2025
days
9
Finish Wellington
24 MAR 2025
NZ$
6799
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
25 MAR 2025
days
9
Finish Wellington
2 APR 2025
NZ$
6799
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
16 NOV 2025
days
9
Finish Wellington
24 NOV 2025
NZ$
6799
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
7 DEC 2025
days
9
Finish Wellington
15 DEC 2025
NZ$
6799
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
1 MAR 2026
days
9
Finish Wellington
9 MAR 2026
NZ$
6799
per person
twin/share
Start Auckland
22 MAR 2026
days
9
Finish Wellington
30 MAR 2026
NZ$
6799
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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