Description
This day tour is an absolutely perfect way to experience the amazing beauty of New Zealand. Departing from the glorious city of Auckland, the first leg of your journey will be a relaxing, comfortable ride on one of Great Sights' air-conditioned deluxe coaches. Travelling north, you will view the impressive scenery, including native forests, subtropical bush land and the beautiful foreshore of the Bay of Islands. During your coach trip, you will also be regaled by the driver, who will let you know of the fascinating history of this region.
When you arrive at Paihia, you will be ushered on board the ‘Dolphin Seeker’ – a purpose-built dolphin and whale-viewing catamaran. This vessel – which has been licensed by the Department of Conservation – has huge outdoor viewing decks, which are absolutely ideal for spotting the local bird life, as well as the unbelievably beautiful scenery. As the experienced local skipper navigates through the azure-blue waters, past the many islands of the Bay, keep your eyes peeled for the plethora of marine life, including majestic whales and playful bottle-nosed dolphins.
Cruising past the Cape Brett Lighthouse, you will be awestruck at the splendour of this wonderful region, with the sun glinting off the crystal clear water and the emerald-topped cliffs – the word ‘picturesque’ doesn’t do it justice. Next, you will come face to face with the iconic ‘Hole in the Rock’ – an 18-metre hole piercing through the rock, which has naturally formed at sea level. As the Dolphin Seeker skipper navigates skilfully through the hole, you will be astonished at the power of the wind and waves in forming such an unusual natural phenomenon. Gazing up at this formidable structure, you will also be glad to have a very experienced skipper at the helm!
Before your return journey back to the inner islands of the Bay, you will have the opportunity to view the stately Grand Cathedral Cave – another amazing natural cave formation. This is definitely a trip that will remain in your memory forever.
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Add a guided tour of the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds where in 1840, the Treaty of Waitangi was signed between Maori and the British Crown. Explore the original Treaty House, one of New Zealand's oldest and most visited historic homes and the Te Whare Runanga, a fully carved Maori meeting house, which is representative of all Iwi (regional tribes) in New Zealand. The Waitangi Treay Grounds offer a truly unique insight into New Zealand's early history.
Trip Includes
- Return coach travel from central Auckland accommodation
- Informative driver commentary
- Auckland Harbour Bridge
- Kaiwaka - morning tea break (own expense)
- Guided tour of Waitangi Treaty Grounds (optional extra)
- Dolphin Cruise to Cape Brett
- Travel through the Famous 'Hole in the Rock'
- Picnic lunch (optional extra)
Duration
Departures
- 7.30am
- Departs central Auckland accommodation from Sky City Coach Terminal, 102 Hobson Street, Auckland (returns 8.10pm)
- Operates daily all year
Other Information
- Children under 3 years are free of charge
- Child rates apply 3-12 years
- In summer you may like to bring swimming clothes as there may be an opportunity for a short swim during our island stop
- Please dress comfortably. We recommend wearing soft soled shoes & to bring an extra jersey/jacket along, sun protection & of course, don’t forget your camera!
- Tour operates Christmas day
