Romantic Short Breaks
Enchanting North
Warblers Rest
Never far from the sea, and perfect for a romantic short holiday or New Zealand honeymoon. We have tried to include a mixture of activity, relaxation, good food and wine and a slower pace with time to explore and savour.
From Auckland fly to a magical luxury cottage retreat in Northland's Bay of Islands, New Zealand’s marine playground for sailing, diving, snorkelling and marine life discovery. Your trip then takes you south to one of New Zealand's best boutique lodges on Auckland's Waiheke Island famous for its gourmet pleasures and on to the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula, staying at Manawa Ridge luxury accommodation with unique architecture and views which go on forever.
- Download PDF for full Itinerary.
Day 1 - Kerikeri, Bay of Islands
From Auckland fly to Kerikeri or allow 3 1/2 hours to drive from Auckland north past Whangarei to just beyond Keri Keri.
Your accommodation at Takou River in one of the utterly romantic cottages. Ideally placed to explore the Bay of Islands and the Far Norths attractions, yet well away from the hustle and bustle of tourist towns.
Day 2 - Kerikeri, Bay of Islands
Take a day to unwind and explore. Borrow a kayak and paddle to the deserted beach at Takou Bay where you can surf, swim or simply wander along to the secluded bays. Finish the evening enjoying one of the alfresco claw foot baths.
Day 3 - Kerikeri, Bay of Islands
This is a beautiful slow day on the water watching for petrels and penguins and offering the chance to swim with wild dophins and experience them close-up. At the end of the day you have an opportunity to explore historic Russel, home of New Zealands founding treaty, the Treaty of Waitangi.
Day 4 - Albany, Auckland
- Stay
- Warblers Retreat
On your way south, break the journey at Marakana with its galleries and cafes.
Tonight, select the cottage or the studio for total privacy in this 5 acre landscaped property. Close to restaurants or self-cater.
Day 5 - Albany, Auckland
- Stay
- Warblers Retreat
Explore the stunning Waitakere Ranges and Muriwai Beach, or sample some Kumeu wines or taste beers at Hallertau Brewery.
Day 6 - Waiheke Island, Auckland
- Stay
- The Boatshed
Continue back to Auckland and take the ferry across to Waiheke, a gourmet and wine destination. You can take a passenger ferry or small plane to reach Waiheke Island and then be car-free for 2 days.
Romantic dinner at The Boatshed.
Day 7 - Waiheke Island, Auckland
- Stay
- The Boatshed
Sample the excellent Waiheke wines with Ananda Tours before today's most arduous task, selecting one of the great cafes for dinner or you can just dine at The Boatshed again!
Day 8 - Tairua, Eastern Coromandel
- Stay
- Colleith Lodge
Back on the mainland, head south and it is just 2 hours to your next base.
Day 9 - Tairua, Eastern Coromandel
- Stay
- Colleith Lodge
Bularangi Motorcycles run guided Harley Davidson trips around the Coromandel Peninsula - if you've not ridden before, how about a chauffeured ride?
Alternative trips include a guided nature tour, kayaking, hiking and galleries.
Day 10 - Tairua, Eastern Coromandel
- Stay
- Colleith Lodge
The lodge sits in 250 acres which you can explore on foot, or if art is your passion, you are welcome to create your own sculpture out of the very workable volcanic rock found in the surrounding Coromandel Peninsula. Resident artist, Carla, is always on hand to show guests through a carving session.
This afternoon take the scenic drive to one of the many galleries, cafes or suburb beaches such as Hot Water Beach or Cathedral Cove.
Day 11 - Journey's End
Return to Auckland to finish your journey or drive to Rotorua to link to other itineraries.
- Download PDF for full Itinerary.
At a glance
Duration: 11 days, 10 nights
Connection points:
Auckland airport
Auckland or Rotorua airport
Activity level: easy
Best season: November-April
Driving times
Auckland - Bay of Islands 3 1/2 hours by car (we suggest you fly)
Auckland - Waiheke Island: 1 3/4 hours (ferry or fly)
Auckland - Tairua, Coromandel: 2 hours
ENCHANTING NORTH
Romance & relaxation
NORTH ISLAND