Located only two and a half hours drive from Auckland, the sophisticated city of Tauranga offers its’ own unique twist to the big city lifestyle, but all at a more relaxing pace. Set at the entrance to a beautiful, natural harbour, Tauranga has two large and modern marinas holding over a thousand yachts and launches, and numerous charter boat operators ready to take you beyond the harbour entrance, where the marlin waters of Mayor and White Island await the game fishing enthusiast.

Adventure seekers wanting a truly adrenalin charged experience can choose from paragliding, skydiving, jet skiing, white water rafting, 4WD safaris, gliding, jet boating or swimming with dolphins. By helicopter or launch, they can land at White Island, which lies 50 kilometres off the Bay of Plenty coast, a living remnant of earth’s violent creation that is truly one of New Zealand’s unique icons.

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.