Whitianga, located in the Coromandel Peninsula of New Zealand’s North Island, is the main town on Mercury Bay. An erstwhile deepwater port for timber (kauri) in the 1800s and early 1900s, it’s known for lush 18th century harvested forests and exciting water sports. Grassy, paved walkways around town lead you past heritage buildings and historical sights. Outside of town, the region is ideal for nature enthusiasts with gravel roads leading to Kaori forests and pristine waterfalls. While Whitianga’s unspoiled beaches and craggy coasts invite you to dive in, kayak or go fishing, there are also therapeutic geothermal pools at the Lost Spring surrounded by crystal and amethyst caves. And if that’s not enough, you could always end up digging your own spa tub in the sand and relaxing at Hot Water Beach. Just a short boat ride away, Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve is a great spot for snorkeling or scuba diving amid colorful fish and corals.
Places: Auckland (1 day) → Paihia (Bay of Islands) (1) → Auckland (1) → Rotorua (2) → Wellington (2) → Christchurch (2) → Queenstown (3) → Franz Josef Glacier (2) → Christchurch (1)
Tour Highlights: Volcanic Peaks & Black Sand Beaches, Maori Culture, Food & Wine, Bay of Islands, Farmers...
Ideal For: Adventure & Outdoors Beaches Heritage & Culture Nature & Landscapes
Places: Christchurch (1 day) → Greymouth (1) → Franz Josef Glacier (1) → Queenstown (2) → Mt Cook (1) → Christchurch (1) → Kaikoura (1) → Wellington (2) → Napier (1) → Rotorua (2) → Auckland (1)
Tour Highlights: English Heritage, Maori Art & Culture, Southern Alps, Diverse Landscapes, Paparua National Park, Shantytown, Natural...
Ideal For: Adventure & Outdoors Nature & Landscapes
Places: Auckland (3 days) → Rotorua (2) → Napier (2) → Wellington (1) → Blenheim (1) → Abel Tasman National Park (2) → Kaikoura (1) → Christchurch (1) → Mt Cook (2) → Wanaka (1) → Te Anau (2) → Queenstown (2)
Tour Highlights: Volcanic Peaks & Black Sand Beaches, Maori Culture, Food & Wine, Wellness & Relaxation, Adventure...
Ideal For: Adventure & Outdoors Beaches Heritage & Culture Wine & Food
Places: Auckland (1 day) → Rotorua (2) → Christchurch (2) → Mt Cook (1) → Queenstown (2)
Tour Highlights: Volcanic Peaks & Black Sand Beaches, Maori Culture, Food & Wine, Wellness & Relaxation, Adventure...
Ideal For: Adventure & Outdoors Nature & Landscapes Relaxation & Spas
Style: Boutique
970 Lonely Bay Lodge sits tucked into the native bush adjacent to the historic Shakespeare Scenic Reserve on the Coromandel Peninsula. A short stroll from Cooks Beach, this contemporary beach house offers you a unique stay.
