Breadcrumb
New Zealand tour itinerary name and information
Thrifty Tours

7 day Bay of Islands, Rotorua & Waitomo

This 7 day tour includes 2 nights in the Bay of Islands with a cruise to Cape Brett and Hole in the Rock. Then onto Rotorua for a thrilling day of adventure and activity. Return to Auckland via Waitomo Caves.

Currency selector
Select your currency to view indicative pricing
Tour summary and feature

Quick Itinerary Details

New Zealand Independent Tour

This suggested tour costs from NZD$3,375 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Auckland, finishes in Auckland

7 days/6 nights

Hotel 3 star

 Customisable? YES

 Viewed 347 times in the last 7 days

This tour also includes
- Private Transfer Auckland Airport to your Auckland Accommodation with Tourcorp
- Shuttle Bag Drop at Pahia Accommodation
- Private Transfer Auckland accommodation to Auckland Airport
- Rotorua Intercity Depot to Rotorua Accommodation - Private Transfer
4 breakfasts, 1 special dinner
price pp from

NZD$3,375

twin share/double
Tour full itinerary
Detailed Itinerary
7 day Bay of Islands, Rotorua  & Waitomo - Day 1
Private Transfer Auckland Airport to your Auckland Accommodation with Tourcorp

You will be met at the Auckland airport by the driver and transferred to your Auckland accommodation.

Welcome to Auckland

Kia ora! Welcome to Auckland, known in Māori as Tāmaki Makaurau. Auckland is New Zealand's vibrant "City of Sails," and the country's largest metropolitan area. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, it offers something for everyone. Surrounded by native bush, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches, Auckland is a haven for both adventurers and urban explorers. Wander through world-class museums and galleries in the city centre or enjoy a peaceful retreat at the Auckland Gardens, where stunning landscapes showcase New Zealand's diverse flora. Stroll along the lively waterfront to savour fresh seafood and international cuisine at the Viaduct restaurants. For an unforgettable perspective, ascend the iconic SkyTower, New Zealand's tallest structure, and take in panoramic views of the city and its picturesque islands.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Harbour Sailing Dinner Cruise with Explore

This unique on-water sailing and dining experience is not to be missed while you're in Auckland. Enjoy smooth sailing on the Waitemata Harbour - then watch this photogenic city come alive with twinkling lights. Enjoy your meal as you sail around the beautiful Auckland Harbour taking in the view as the sun slowly sets. You'll be treated to canapes and a drink as you set off towards Westhaven Marina. To finish the evening off, savour your dessert course as you leisurely sail back to Auckland's vibrant Viaduct Harbour.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - All Blacks Experience

See what it takes to make, shape and be an All Black. Experience first-hand the excitement and emotion of game day. Discover the stories behind some of world rugby’s most famous players, moments, and matches.
This guided experience introduces you to the game of rugby including state-of-the-art displays combining sound, images, interactive technology, and hands-on activities. Discover New Zealand’s deep passion for our national sport, experience the full force of the All Blacks haka, and tackle interactive zones where you can try out your kicking, catching, line-out, and accuracy skills against legendary All Blacks.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Wētā Workshop Unleashed

Explore worlds of horror, sci-fi and fantasy in the making. An exciting, realistic, and authentic experience, with three fully developed and original film concepts: A nail-biting horror Fauna, a fantasy epic Age of the Ever-Clan, and the mind-bending sci-fi Origins.
A 90-minute guided experience through fully themed environments, including immersive horror, fantasy, and sci-fi story worlds. Be immersed by a specially-created unique sweeping cinematic soundtrack, animatronic creatures, physical and digital interactives, hyper-realistic sculpted giants and characters, a horror house experience, and much more.

Your accommodation: Rendezvous Heritage Auckland

The Rendezvous Heritage Auckland commands an elevated position in the centre of the city. With two distinctive accommodation wings - The Hotel reflects the traditional style of the building's famous past, while The Tower is a contemporary design.

Back to top

7 day Bay of Islands, Rotorua  & Waitomo - Day 2
Auckland to Paihia, Bay of Islands by InterCity Coach

Leave Auckland and head North to the Bay of Islands. Taking you along the coast road past the seaside villages of Orewa and Waiwera. Then it's on to the township of Puhoi, New Zealand's only Bohemian settlement, then Warkworth and the harbourside city of Whangarei and the unique township of Kawakawa. Arriving into the subtropical Bay of Islands you are greeted with bush-clad hillsides dropping to golden sand beaches. Paihia is the main centre of the bay and has a great beachside atmosphere.

Waitangi Treaty Grounds Guided Tour and Cultural Performance - Shuttle Included

Waitangi is one of New Zealand's most historic sites where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between 43 Māori chiefs and the British Government. This two-day pass allows you access to the Treaty of Waitangi Grounds and includes admission to the Te Kōngahu Museum and Te Rau Aroha Museum and a Māori Cultural performance. During your guided tour, you'll learn about the history of the treaty and discover the stories and events that shaped New Zealand. The cultural performance inside the carved meeting house includes waiata (singing), poi, a display of Māori weaponry and the haka - a war dance New Zealand is well known for.

Bag Drop at Pahia Accommodation

While you are exploring Waitangi Treaty Grounds, your bag will be transferred to your accommodation in Paihia.

Your accommodation: Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge, Paihia

The Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge, Paihia is located on the waterfront only 100 metres from Paihia wharf and township. All rooms are air-conditioned and hotel facilities include restaurant and spa pool

Back to top

7 day Bay of Islands, Rotorua  & Waitomo - Day 3
Hole in the Rock Cruise with Fullers GreatSights

Board your cruise and take in the stunning views as you glide out through the islands and along the Rakaumangamanga Peninsula to Cape Brett, where a historic lighthouse keeps watch over and Piercy Island/Motukōkako, or as it is popularly known as the Hole in the Rock. According to Māori legend, local warriors used to paddle through the Hole in the Rock in their canoes before departing for battle. Drops of water from the cave roof above were a good omen. If conditions permit, your skipper will expertly guide the ship through the narrow space. Keep an eye out for common and bottlenose dolphins, whales, and other marine life during your cruise, and have your camera ready as you get up close to the action. Stop off at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island where you have time to relax, take a walk, have a swim, or enjoy a bite to eat and drink from the on-site fully licensed café. The purpose-built catamaran is licensed by DOC (the Department of Conservation) for dolphin viewing and the crew has years of experience locating dolphins in these waters. 

Explore Bay of Islands

Commonly known as the ‘winterless north’ New Zealand’s Bay of Islands is made up of over 140 subtropical atolls. Renowned for its untouched beaches, abundant marine life and idyllic climate, this tropical paradise ticks all the boxes. Spend some time on a remote stretch of beach, or see the dolphins on an ocean safari. If diving is your thing, take the morning to descend the Rainbow Warrior - The Greenpeace flagship sunk by French saboteurs in 1985. Wander around Russell, a whaling port founded in 1843. Learn about our culture in historic Waitangi, the site where The Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between the Māori and European. Alternatively you may like to take a day tour to Cape Reinga, the very top of the North Island.

Your accommodation: Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge, Paihia

The Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge, Paihia is located on the waterfront only 100 metres from Paihia wharf and township. All rooms are air-conditioned and hotel facilities include restaurant and spa pool
Meals included: Breakfast

Back to top

7 day Bay of Islands, Rotorua  & Waitomo - Day 4
Paihia, Bay of Islands to Rotorua by Intercity Coach

Your journey will take you past scenic native forests and sub-tropical bush, before crossing the Auckland Harbour Bridge to arrive into the spectacular city scene of Auckland. Continue south into the rich farmland of the Waikato and onto the cultural heart of the North Island and Rotorua City.

Rotorua Intercity Depot to Rotorua Accommodation

You will be collected from Rotorua Intercity Coach Depot and transferred to your accommodation.

Your accommodation: Millennium Hotel Rotorua

Millennium Hotel is Rotorua's largest 4-star deluxe hotel. Perfectly situated in the heart of the city overlooking Lake Rotorua. Five levels of accommodation offer guests a wide variety of scenic views.
Meals included: Breakfast

Back to top

7 day Bay of Islands, Rotorua  & Waitomo - Day 5
Mt. Tarawera & Waimangu Thermal Valley Scenic Flight by Floatplane

Fly over the site of the largest eruption in New Zealand’s living memory, Mount Tarawera, and gain an appreciation of how the 1886 eruption changed this stunning landscape. From Mount Tarawera to the Waimangu Volcanic Valley, view the eruption trail and surrounding Lakes district whilst enjoying informed commentary from your experienced local pilot/guide, all combined with the thrill of taking off and landing on water at the Rotorua City Lakefront.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Polynesian Spa Deluxe Lake Spa

Rotorua's Polynesian Spa offers a unique thermal spa experience on the shore of Lake Rotorua. Enjoy tranquil bathing and lake views in four shallow alkaline rock pools, each with different temperatures (36˚C to 42˚C). Surrounded by revitalising native New Zealand flora, natural rocks, the sound of two waterfalls and a grotto. The pools are filled with soothing alkaline mineral water leaving your skin soft and supple. Unwind in either the indoor or outdoor relaxation area overlooking the four hot mineral pools and Lake Rotorua, here you can further decompress on the five geothermally heated recliners set in the stunning backdrop of New Zealand's lush and natural greenery. The Lake Spa is a unique thermal pool environment, where the atmosphere changes from day to night, and from winter steam to summer sparkle.

Te Pā Tū Evening Māori Cultural Experience - Dinner Included

New Zealand’s Most Awarded Cultural Attraction, presenting Te Pā Tū. Feast on song, drama, tradition, and divine seasonal kai (cuisine) within the forest Pā (village) blanketed by towering Tawa trees, blazing bonfires, and a forest-formed amphitheatre. Te Pā Tū shares Māori history, traditions, and cultural aspirations across 4-hours of celebration and feasting. These events change with each season of the Maramataka, the Māori lunar calendar.

Your accommodation: Millennium Hotel Rotorua

Millennium Hotel is Rotorua's largest 4-star deluxe hotel. Perfectly situated in the heart of the city overlooking Lake Rotorua. Five levels of accommodation offer guests a wide variety of scenic views.
Meals included: Breakfast, Speciality Dinner

Back to top

7 day Bay of Islands, Rotorua  & Waitomo - Day 6
Rotorua to Auckland via Waitomo with FlexiTours

Journey from Rotorua to Auckland, passing through New Zealand's iconic farmland and Waikato Dairy country in a comfortable and spacious mini-coach. Enjoy Waitomo Caves, one of the country's best natural attractions where you will take a boat ride through the darkness to see a spectacular glow worm grotto. Admire thousands of magical glow worms light up the caves, a sight which has been enjoyed for over 130 years.

Your accommodation: Rendezvous Heritage Auckland

The Rendezvous Heritage Auckland commands an elevated position in the centre of the city. With two distinctive accommodation wings - The Hotel reflects the traditional style of the building's famous past, while The Tower is a contemporary design.
Meals included: Breakfast

Back to top

7 day Bay of Islands, Rotorua  & Waitomo - Day 7
Private Transfer Auckland accommodation to Auckland Airport with Tourcorp

You will be met at your Auckland accommodation by the driver and transferred to the airport.

Back to top

Contact form
Send us an enquiry about this tour

Fields marked * are mandatory

Subscribe to our Regular Newsletter for Inspiring Holiday Ideas
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Tour departure list
Departure dates & prices
See all dates & prices for: 7 day Bay of Islands, Rotorua & Waitomo
This tour has 361 departure dates.
All prices are in
Go to dates in
Starts Status   Double (2 people sharing) Single occupancy You save  
Jan 5, 2025
(Sunday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 6, 2025
(Monday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 7, 2025
(Tuesday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 8, 2025
(Wednesday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 9, 2025
(Thursday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 10, 2025
(Friday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 11, 2025
(Saturday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 12, 2025
(Sunday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 13, 2025
(Monday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 14, 2025
(Tuesday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 15, 2025
(Wednesday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 16, 2025
(Thursday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 17, 2025
(Friday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 18, 2025
(Saturday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 19, 2025
(Sunday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 20, 2025
(Monday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 21, 2025
(Tuesday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 22, 2025
(Wednesday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 23, 2025
(Thursday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 24, 2025
(Friday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 25, 2025
(Saturday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 26, 2025
(Sunday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 27, 2025
(Monday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 28, 2025
(Tuesday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 29, 2025
(Wednesday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 30, 2025
(Thursday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Jan 31, 2025
(Friday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Feb 1, 2025
(Saturday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Feb 2, 2025
(Sunday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Feb 3, 2025
(Monday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
Feb 4, 2025
(Tuesday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,375 NZD$4,835 Enquire Book
All prices are in
Go to dates in
Tour quick quote rework
Get an Instant Quote or Book this Tour
7 day Bay of Islands, Rotorua & Waitomo
Step 1:
Step 2: Select number of passengers and room configuration
How many guests are children?
How many guests are children?

Enter phone number to get a call from a travel planning expert within 24 hours

Enter email address to receive your instant quote

Tick this box if you do not wish to receive emails about special offers
No pricing loaded - please choose another date or contact us
Your quote for this tour:
Start date:
End date:
Guests:
Rooms:
Total cost for ALL guests on this tour package is:
NZD$0
or
This quote is based on vehicles to accommodate your party in the vehicle type. We suggest changing the car type or contacting us for the best options.
The package cost above excludes rental vehicle hire as you are requesting a price for a vehicle outside of our designated season. Please reach out direct for rental vehicle rates.

 

NOTE: Quotes are subject to availability of specific accommodation and other inclusions. Our NZ touring experts will be in touch with you regarding this. Costs quoted in currencies other than New Zealand dollars (NZ$) are based on todays exchange rate and is subject to change.Terms and Conditions apply

Remember - we can create this itinerary with any style of accommodation or customise to suit your interests and timeframe. Just contact us here.

Why book with New Zealand Coach Tours?

At NZ Coach Tours we choose only the best coach tours out there. We have up to date knowledge and experience, so we can give you the best advice on which tour is right for you. We can combine tours, maybe one tour that offers the best in the North Island and one that offers something different for the South Island. Our range of independent tours depart daily and can be custom designed to suit you perfectly. We have loads of accommodation options, activity ideas, and sell a beautiful destination that is guaranteed to blow you away!
Put simply - we have something for everyone and we are confident you will not be left disappointed.

In summary

  • We specialise in New Zealand. Nothing else. 100% New Zealand.
  • You get the best price for your tour and we guarantee it.
  • Our experienced team is based right here in New Zealand, and we're ready to help you with every step of your personalised journey.
  • We have the first-hand experience of the tours we sell.
  • We have quality, long standing relationships with many touring partners, accommodation and activity suppliers
  • Legendary dedication to service excellence.
  • Secure payment options for your peace of mind.
  • Operating since 2004 and our guests love us.
  • Because your visit to New Zealand deserves to be the best.
  • We represent only the best-escorted coach touring brands — Grand Pacific Tours, Grand Pacific Ultimate Small Group Tours, Intrepid Travel and AAT Kings.
  • Talk to one of our team today to find and book the New Zealand coach tour that's right for you.