8 Day Northern Spotlight Guided Tour
Follow the path of pioneers as you travel across the North Island of New Zealand. From the first European settlements on the shores of the beautiful Bay of Islands, to Rotorua – rich in Maori culture and traditions, through spectacular scenery of Tongariro National Park and down to the modern capital city of Wellington.8 Day Northern Spotlight Guided Tour
This intriguing Northland journey takes you from the shores of the beautiful Bay of Islands to Rotorua, with its rich Māori culture and traditions, and on to the spectacular scenery of Tongariro National Park and the country’s thriving modern capital, Wellington.Tour Type: | Group Tours |
From: | Auckland to Wellington |
Departs: | Selected dates |
Duration: | 8 days |
Tour Code: | LABW |
Regions Visited
Click on the region name to view more information about the regionTour Inclusions
- Experienced Travel Director & Driver Guide
- Comfortable accommodation
- Travel by luxury coach
- Airport transfers (flights to arrive by 4:00pm on day 1, flights to depart after 2.00pm on day 8)
- Full buffet breakfasts (7)
- Lunch (1)
- Highlight dinner (1)
- Dinner (1)
- Farewell dinner (1)
- Cruise through ‘Hole in the Rock’ to Cape Brett
- Explore Auckland’s city sights
- Discover the fascinating Glowworm Grotto at Waitomo Caves
- Immerse yourself in Maori culture at a Hangi & concert
- Experience farm life at the Agrodome Farm Show
- View mighty Huka Falls
- Discover New Zealand’s capital Wellington
- Explore Te Papa, Museum of New Zealand
* Please note: There is an itinerary change from 1 April 2021. Please ask for details.
Frequently Asked Questions – GroupTours
What is a Group tour?
What could be better than travelling with a group of like-minded people, on a coach tour operated by one of our preferred operators, AAT Kings or Grand Pacific Tours. You will be taken care of from your arrival into New Zealand through to your departure.
Do these tours departure every day?
The departure dates are stipulated on our website. Should a date not fit into your schedule, please contact us as we would gladly make alternative arrangements for you.
I am a single traveller, can I be matched up with another single traveller in a twin room?
Yes, you can pay on a share twin basis. You will be matched with a fellow traveller of the same gender, however we are unable to guarantee compatibility.
What is included in my tour?
5 star coach transportation, experienced coach captain with full commentary, some tours include a tour manager. Accommodation, activities and meals as stipulated in the itinerary.
Can I join or leave a tour part way through?
Yes, should you wish to we can arrange this for you. However, there will be no deduction in the cost for unused services.
Does the tour include transfers on arrival and departure?
You will be met on arrival at the airport and transferred to the tour hotel to meet your fellow travellers. At the completion of the tour you will be transferred to the airport in ample time for your departure flight.
Can I add accommodation onto my tour, at the beginning or the end of the tour?
Yes, this is pre or post accommodation. Just let us know and we can include that in your tour.
I am prone to motion sickness, can I guarantee a forward seat?
All tours operate a seat rotation system for the enjoyment of all travellers. All travellers must participate in seat rotation as a condition of booking. Due to this we are unable to guarantee forward seating.
How much luggage can I bring on tour?
Each traveller is entitled to travel with one suitcase. Maximum suitcase weight allowed is 23kg (50lbs). All luggage is entirely at the ‘owners risk’ whilst on tour and we strongly recommend that travel insurance be taken out by each traveller to cover accidental damage or loss. All travellers are supplied with luggage tags. This will assist the Coach Captain to identify your luggage when loading the coach throughout your tour and the delivery of luggage to your room.
What clothing should I bring on tour?
Whilst on tour, dress is informal and relaxed on most occasions. Smart casual clothes are acceptable at most restaurants. The seasons are more pronounced and the weather is more changeable. In summer, a jacket and sweater should be included in your luggage should the weather turn cooler or you visit higher altitudes. You can expect some rain, so also include a light rainproof jacket or coat. If visiting during the months of May and September, pack warm winter garments and layer your clothing. You may have the option to relax and unwind in thermal hot pools so don’t forget to pack your swimwear.
What can I expect weather wise?
As much as we would like to say 100% sunshine, that is beyond us so the New Zealand Met service have the following averages.
Spring: September, October, November - average daytime temperature 16 – 19 Celsius (61 – 66 Fahrenheit)
Summer: December, January, February - average daytime temperature 20 – 25 Celsius (68- 77 Fahrenheit)
Autumn/Fall: March, April, May - average daytime temperature 17-21 Celsius (62 – 70 Fahrenheit)
Winter: June, July, August - average daytime temperature 12 - 16 Celsius (53 – 61 Fahrenheit)
Do I need to tip in New Zealand?
If you wish to reward someone for a job well done it is always much appreciated.
Do I need a visa to visit New Zealand?
Most visitors to New Zealand do not require a visa to enter for the purpose of a holiday or vacation under the visa waiver program. If you do need a visa to visit New Zealand then you should contact the New Zealand consulate in your home country well before your departure date. We recommend you also check with your local travel agent or airline for any visa requirements to New Zealand particularly if you are passing through Australia. Information on the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) can be found here: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/apply-for-a-visa/about-visa/nzeta
What currency is used in New Zealand?
The New Zealand dollar is the only legal tender in New Zealand. View a guide between your local currency and the New Zealand dollar. Please note: Your tour and all purchases using a credit card in New Zealand will be charged in New Zealand Dollars (NZD) at the current exchange rate at the time of purchase.
Do I require travel insurance?
We strongly recommend you purchase travel insurance. Factors may arise that require you to cancel or amend your holiday, so it is essential you are covered for any costs that may be incurred. We recommend purchasing your travel insurance locally at the same time as you book your tour and flights. Pacific Travel Ltd does not sell travel insurance.
Day By Day Itinerary
DAY 1: WELCOME TO AUCKLAND

The afternoon is at leisure for you to explore before meeting your Travel Director for a Welcome Reception.
Accommodation: VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites
DAY 2: AUCKLAND / BAY OF ISLANDS

Depart Auckland for Paihia in the Bay of Islands and experience spectacular scenery as you cruise towards Cape Brett and through the ‘Hole in the Rock’.
Accommodation: Copthorne Resort Bay of Islands
DAY 3: BAY OF ISLANDS

Explore the Bay of Islands at your own pace.
Accommodation: Copthorne Resort Bay of Islands
DAY 4: BAY OF ISLANDS / AUCKLAND

Enjoy a leisurely morning before your return to Auckland. Your journey takes you to Whangarei, the northern-most city in New Zealand, where you can wander around the art galleries and through the marina in the Town Basin. Later, enjoy a stop at Parry Kauri Park and take a walk among New Zealand’s native forest giants, the Kauri trees, before arriving into Auckland.
Accommodation: VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites
DAY 5: AUCKLAND / ROTORUA

After a tour of Auckland’s city sights this morning, journey south through the fertile Waikato agricultural district. Explore the amazing Waitomo Caves, and tour the famous Glowworm Grotto by boat. From here your journey continues to Rotorua. A very entertaining cultural experience awaits you at the Tamaki Māori Village. Experience a powerful Haka challenge, witness a concert showcasing traditional Māori culture, and dine at a traditional Māori Hangi feast Highlight Dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel Ibis
DAY 6: ROTORUA AT LEISURE

Relax or explore Rotorua at your own pace.
Accommodation: Hotel Ibis
DAY 7: ROTORUA / WELLINGTON

Journey through tall pine forests and verdant farmland today to spectacular Huka Falls and serene Lake Taupo. Continue through the rich farming lands of the Manawatu to Wellington, the nation’s capital.
Accommodation: Travelodge Wellington
DAY 8: FAREWELL FROM WELLINGTON

Your special packed lunch today won’t only be wholesome, it will also feed a Kiwi child who may otherwise go without, through the charity ‘Eat My Lunch’. This morning enjoy a city tour of Wellington, taking in panoramic views from the summit of Mt. Victoria. There’ll be time to explore the Parliament buildings and the ‘Beehive’, home to New Zealand’s politicians, as well as the many fascinating exhibits at Te Papa Museum of New Zealand. Your holiday ends in the early afternoon.
01 October 2020 - 31 March 2022
Start Date | End Date | Single traveller | Share / Twin | Guaranteed departure | Availability |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
20 February 2021 | 27 February 2021 | $3,520 NZD | $2,695 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
27 February 2021 | 6 March 2021 | $3,520 NZD | $2,695 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
6 March 2021 | 13 March 2021 | $3,520 NZD | $2,695 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
13 March 2021 | 20 March 2021 | $3,520 NZD | $2,695 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
20 March 2021 | 27 March 2021 | $3,520 NZD | $2,695 NZD | Yes | Enquire / Book |
27 March 2021 | 3 April 2021 | $3,520 NZD | $2,695 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
17 April 2021 | 24 April 2021 | $3,360 NZD | $2,575 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
24 April 2021 | 1 May 2021 | $3,360 NZD | $2,575 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
29 May 2021 | 5 June 2021 | $3,360 NZD | $2,575 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
26 June 2021 | 3 July 2021 | $3,360 NZD | $2,575 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
24 July 2021 | 31 July 2021 | $3,360 NZD | $2,575 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
7 August 2021 | 14 August 2021 | $3,360 NZD | $2,575 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
4 September 2021 | 11 September 2021 | $3,360 NZD | $2,575 NZD | Yes | Enquire / Book |
11 September 2021 | 18 September 2021 | $3,360 NZD | $2,575 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
25 September 2021 | 2 October 2021 | $3,360 NZD | $2,575 NZD | Yes | Enquire / Book |
2 October 2021 | 9 October 2021 | $3,545 NZD | $2,720 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
9 October 2021 | 16 October 2021 | $3,545 NZD | $2,720 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
16 October 2021 | 23 October 2021 | $3,545 NZD | $2,720 NZD | Yes | Enquire / Book |
23 October 2021 | 30 October 2021 | $3,545 NZD | $2,720 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
30 October 2021 | 6 November 2021 | $3,545 NZD | $2,720 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
6 November 2021 | 13 November 2021 | $3,545 NZD | $2,720 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
13 November 2021 | 20 November 2021 | $3,545 NZD | $2,720 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
27 November 2021 | 4 December 2021 | $3,545 NZD | $2,720 NZD | Yes | Enquire / Book |
4 December 2021 | 11 December 2021 | $3,545 NZD | $2,720 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
11 December 2021 | 18 December 2021 | $3,545 NZD | $2,720 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
18 December 2021 | 25 December 2021 | $3,545 NZD | $2,720 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
25 December 2021 | 1 January 2022 | $3,545 NZD | $2,720 NZD | Yes | Enquire / Book |
8 January 2022 | 15 January 2022 | $3,545 NZD | $2,720 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
15 January 2022 | 22 January 2022 | $3,545 NZD | $2,720 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
22 January 2022 | 29 January 2022 | $3,545 NZD | $2,720 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
29 January 2022 | 5 February 2022 | $3,545 NZD | $2,720 NZD | Yes | Enquire / Book |
5 February 2022 | 12 February 2022 | $3,545 NZD | $2,720 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
12 February 2022 | 19 February 2022 | $3,545 NZD | $2,720 NZD | Yes | Enquire / Book |
19 February 2022 | 26 February 2022 | $3,545 NZD | $2,720 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
26 February 2022 | 5 March 2022 | $3,545 NZD | $2,720 NZD | Yes | Enquire / Book |
5 March 2022 | 12 March 2022 | $3,545 NZD | $2,720 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
12 March 2022 | 19 March 2022 | $3,545 NZD | $2,720 NZD | Yes | Enquire / Book |
19 March 2022 | 26 March 2022 | $3,545 NZD | $2,720 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |
26 March 2022 | 2 April 2022 | $3,545 NZD | $2,720 NZD | No | Enquire / Book |