Cape to Tasman Voyager

West Coast to Bay of Islands

This morning is all about flexibility. If we didn’t visit Waipoua yesterday, you’ll explore the forest today - either en route or via a complimentary local shuttle.

We’ll then cross the Far North toward the east coast, stopping at a winery after lunch for a relaxed wine tasting before arriving in Paihia later in the afternoon. After checking into your hotel, the rest of the day and evening are completely free.

Take time to unwind by the waterfront, choose from a range of optional activities, or simply explore this vibrant Bay of Islands town at your own pace.

Free Day in the Bay of Islands

Today is yours to design.

Spend the day exactly how you like - cruise the Bay of Islands, go dolphin spotting, kayak to secluded beaches, visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, or simply enjoy a relaxed day by the water with great food and ocean views.

Your included Waitangi Treaty Grounds combo pass allows you to explore the grounds at your own pace. Your guide will be on hand throughout the day to help arrange optional activities or share local tips.

In the evening, you’ll come together for an included Hāngī dinner at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds - a traditional Māori feast and cultural experience.

We journey south today with a few unforgettable stops along the way.

Our first highlight is a stop in the charming Matakana Village. Enjoy some free time to relax over lunch, browse the boutique shops and local galleries, or sample the region’s renowned wines at The Vintry, which offers tastings from a selection of local vineyards.

Next, we’ll travel back to Auckland, where you will be dropped off at the airport to embark on your journey to the South Island to continue your adventure.

To kick off your South Island adventure, we drive one of three scenic passes across the Southern Alps to the west coast. The Lewis Pass takes us through unmodified beech forests, alpine wetland and along the Lewis River. We have plenty of distance to cover but we will have stunning landscapes & stops on our way to the picturesque town of Punakaiki.

The ultimate beachside destination for adventure and exploration, this picturesque coastal village is full of exciting things to do but is best known for the Pancake Rock where columns of water shoot skyward from rocks that resemble giant stacks of hotcakes. Spend the afternoon experiencing luxuriant coastal forest, fantastic limestone cliffs and canyons, mysterious caves, pristine rivers, and an absolutely spectacular coastline.

Drive the wild west coast with stops that include lighthouse views and seal colonies. As we head inland we drive through the scenic Nelson Lakes towards arguably New Zealand’s most beautiful National Park, Abel Tasman. Spend the afternoon exploring the tiny town or go on an adventure to collect fresh green lipped mussels.

Today we head to Golden Bay, home to New Zealand's longest sandspit along with stunning beaches and wildlife. Be ready for an adventure today, as we stop to explore the Ngārua Caves followed by a walk around Te Waikoropupū Springs, some of the clearest water you will see. Finally, follow the track to the most northern point on the South Island at Wharariki Beach.

Kick back on the beach or, if you’re feeling adventurous, discover the raw natural beauty of Abel Tasman National Park by hiking parts of the track or grab a kayak and spend the day along the coastal track. If you’re lucky, you might spot native wildlife such as the Tui or Tuatara.

After a few epic adventures on our way out of town we head to the famed Marlborough Wine Region. Have a sip or two of its world-famous Sauvignon Blanc and snap some Insta-worthy shots in the vineyards. Our drive continues on to Kaikoura, there are very few places in the world that can boast such natural wonders as those offered by land and sea in this small community. As we come into town you'll notice the dramatic, rugged cliffs on the edge of town, which are as impressive as the whale watching and dolphin swimming.

Spend the morning ticking off the rest of your bucket list, whether it's spotting seals, searching for whales, or swimming with dolphins. After a morning of adventure, we will hop on the road to drive back to Christchurch. Spend the afternoon exploring the funky neighbourhoods of Christchurch.