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Enchanting North

  • Enchanting North
  • A Wild Romance
  • Lights, Camera, Action
Warblers Rest

Warblers Rest

  • The Boatshed, Waiheke Island
  • Summer Cottage, Takou River, Bay of Islands
  • Sailing in the Bay of Islands
  • Night Sky Cottage

Never far from the sea or a lake, 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 Central Plateau with its volcano, rivers and hiking trails for you to explore. 

  • Download PDF for full Itinerary.

Day 1 - Kerikeri, Bay of Islands

Stay
Takou River Lodge

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

Stay
Takou River Lodge

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

Do
Carino Wildlife Cruises | Sailing with Dolphins
Stay
Takou River Lodge

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

Do
Auckland Seaplanes | Scenic Flights, Fly & Dine and Transfers
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

Enjoy massages and beach strolls 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 - near Ohakune

Stay
Night Sky Cottage

Your final stay is at a secluded cottage surrounded by majestic mountains.

Day 9 - near Ohakune

Stay
Night Sky Cottage

Cycling, canoeing and hiking are on the agenda during your stay.

Day 10 - near Ohakune

Stay
Night Sky Cottage

The Tongariro Crossing is one of the world's best day hikes.

Day 11 - Journey's End

Return to Auckland tor Wellington to finish your journey.  There is a scenic train from Auckland to Wellington that stops at National Park as an alternative to driving.

  • Download PDF for full Itinerary.
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At a glance

Duration:11 days, 10 nights

Connection points:
Auckland airport
Taupo or take the scenic train to Wellington or Auckland 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 - Ohakune: 4 1/2 hours drive plus ferry / fly Waiheke-Auckland-Taupo then 1 1/2 hour drive

ENCHANTING NORTH

Romance & relaxation

NORTH ISLAND

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