Auckland - the City of Sails, New Zealand's largest city and the arrival and departure point for many international visitors to New Zealand. Auckland offers a wide range of adventure activities - from sailing on the Hauraki Gulf to walking the famous Auckland Harbour Bridge, or climbing the Auckland Sky Tower, the tallest structure in the Southern Hemisphere.

The Auckland region has a wide variety of natural wonders, including 48 volcanic cones, 2 harbours and rain forests. The Hauraki Gulf is abundent with sealife, including the famous Hector dolphin.

Auckland is ideally located to use the North Island Touring Route.

Suggested 7 Day Itinerary
Travelling using the Thermal Explorer & Pacific Coact Highways

Day 1 - Depart Auckland heading south to the Waikato and experience it's full range of adventure activities, casino and river cruises. Overnight in the Waikato in one of the large range of quality hotels, motels or luxury bed & breakfasts.

Day 2 - Head from the Waikato to the thermal wonderland of Rotorua and the spiritual home of the Maori. Choose from a wide range of activities - including white water rafting, Maori cultural tours including traditional Hangi feasts, or a relaxing day cruising on one of Rotorua's many lakes with the option of trout fishing. At the end of the day relax in one of Rotorua's famous thermal hot pools. Overnight in Rotorua choosing from one of the many accommodation options.

Day 3 - Continue south along the Thermal Explorer Highway to Lake Taupo where you can take leisurely walks around Lake Taupo, or catch rainbow trout in the adjoining lakes and streams. For the adrenalin junkies there are a number of options including jet boating, skydiving and white water rafting. Taupo is a short drive to Mt Ruapehu ski fields and the Tongiriro National Park. Overnight in Taupo in one of Taupo's accommodation options.

Day 4 - Follow the historic heritage trail to the sunny Hawkes Bay wine country. Travel into Napier, the art deco city and visit some of New Zealand's finest wineries and vineyards and experience the exciting taste of the local cuisine. Hastings & Napier boast a full range of luxury lodges and international standard acommodation.

Day 5 - Join the Pacific Coast Hightway heading north back through rugged coastlines steeped in Maori and European heritage to the Bay of Plenty. In the Bay of Plenty visit the famous White Island, one of the world's most accessible volcanoes. Or just relax on the white sand surf beaches of Mt Maunganui. The Bay of Plenty offers a variety of adventure activities including the opportunity to swim with the dolphins. Overnight in the Bay of Plenty with a choice of boutique hotel, luxury lodge accommodation, or self catering apartments.

Day 6 - Follow the Pacific Coast Highway through orchards and coastline to the mountainous peninsula which is the Coromandel. Steeped in rich history of the past goldmining era, with pottery and art studios along the way. Overnight in Coromandel.

Day 7 - Follow the Seabird Coast back to Auckland.