Romantic Short Breaks
Enchanting North
Warblers Rest
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
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
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
Your final stay is at a secluded cottage surrounded by majestic mountains.
Day 9 - near Ohakune
Cycling, canoeing and hiking are on the agenda during your stay.
Day 10 - near Ohakune
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.
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