8 Day Northern Highlights Deluxe Road Trip
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
On these packages you will travel from city to city on your own, exploring at your own pace. We have arranged transportation in most cases and day tours for you to see the destination. Enjoy the time and flexibility to linger longer or pick up the pace and see as much as possible.
Experience a superior level of comfort. Our Small Group tours have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Travel with no more than 26 people, allowing for a more personalised and immersive experience. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for the exact group size.
✓ Incredible sightseeing, Travel to Paihia and the Bay of Islands, cruise the serene waters and visit the ‘Hole in the Rock’, travel south and witness the Waitomo glowworm caves and visit the geothermal pools of Rotorua
✓ Enjoy the flexibility of independent travel
✓ 7 days Toyota Corolla (or similar) car rental including unlimited kilometers & nil excess
✓ 7 nights accommodation in 4 star hotels
✓ Daily breakfast
✓ Full day cruising the Bay of Islands enjoying picturesque views as the boat winds its way through the islands, making deliveries and visiting iconic landmarks like the Black Rocks, Marsden Cross, Cape Brett Lighthouse and the Hole in the Rock
✓ Guided Waitomo Caves tour. Marvel at thousands of glow worms as you glide gently downstream in an inflatable raft, and enjoy easy walks through stunning limestone caves and landscape.
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Welcome to Auckland. If you fly into Auckland, please collect your vehicle from Hertz Airport depot before making your way to your hotel for check-in. Alternatively, make your way to Auckland Hertz Downtown depot to collect your car. The rest of the day is at leisure to get acquainted with this vibrant city.
Check in & arrival information.
Hotel check in is at 2pm. Should you arrive earlier than this, hotel staff will do all possible to check you in as soon as possible. If your room is not available before check-in time, you are welcome to leave your luggage in storage and explore the surrounding area.
This morning you will begin the trip north to Paihia, the gateway to the Bay of Islands.
Make your way to the relevant depot and collect your vehicle.
Driving along the Twin Coast Discovery Highway we recommend a visit to Whangārei. If you are up for it, take a detour to the Whangarei Heads scenic drive as it winds through Pohutakawa fringed bays with stunning views to the wild and beautiful Ocean Beach (approximately an additional 80 minute return trip).
Continuing north, travel the remaining distance to Paihia and on arrival check in to your hotel.
Approximate distance driven: 280km, approx 3.5hrs
Car Hire Pick Up.
Up to 31 December 2021 - Collect your car from Hertz downtown office, 154 Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD.
From 1 January 2022 - Collect your car from Budget downtown office, located on 17/19 Nelson Street, Auckland CBD.
At 9:00AM this morning, you will board your vessel from the Paihia Wharf and enjoy picturesque views as the boat winds its way through the islands.
According to Māori legend, local warriors used to paddle through the 'Hole in the Rock' in their canoes before departing for battle. Drops of water from the cave roof above were a good omen. If conditions permit, your skipper will expertly guide the ship through the narrow space... and if you get dripped on, consider yourself lucky!
Keep an eye out for dolphins, whales and other marine life during your cruise, and have your camera ready as we get you up close to the action. Please note that during our morning cruise we are permitted to interact with common dolphins only.
Cruises include an island stopover at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island. Stroll along the white sand beach, or walk to the top of the hill for scenic views over the entire Bay of Islands.
Your cruise concludes back at Paihia Wharf at 12:00PM. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Today is a long drive to Auckland. Leaving early, make your way south back along the Twin Coast Discovery Highway. Approximate distance driven: 280km, 3.5hrs
Make your way to the starting point of the cave tour at 39 Waitomo Village Rd. Please ensure you bring a warm jacket as the cave temperature can be significantly lower than the outside temperature. Discover thousands of illuminating glow worms as you explore these glittering underground worlds on two walking tours. Glide silently by boat through the Glowworm Grotto in the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, then get up-close and personal for a photo opportunity.
Finally, continue driving east to Rotorua - your final destination for today.
Approximate distance driven: 330km, 4.5hrs
Spend the day exploring Rotorua at your own pace. Rotorua is a fascinating mix of geothermal activity, Māori culture and adventure. Rotorua is a region that offers a multitude of experiences.
Explore the bubbling mud pools and geysers of Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley, or get your adrenaline pumping with some of the great adventure activities on offer. Visit Te Puia or Tamaki Maori Village to experience Māori culture and learn about the historic events of New Zealand's history.
For those that love getting outdoors, try a walk or mountain bike along the network of trails that wind through the giant Redwood forests.
Today continue driving south to Wellington, New Zealand's capital city.
Approximate distance driven: 450km, 5.5hrs
Today your New Zealand Northern Highlights Deluxe Road Trip comes to an end. Please return your vehicle at the relevant downtown or airport depot. It's important you return your vehicle at the same time you picked your car up in Auckland (or earlier) to avoid additional rental fees.
Farewell Wellington as you make your own way to the airport for your onward flight or to continue the next part of your journey.
If you may wish to extend your stay in Wellington, we can assist you to book the below optional activities as well as additional accommodation.
Perhaps you want to fly to Christchurch and continue travelling on our 8 Day Southern Hightlight Deluxe Road Trip
Starting on Mt Victoria with a visit to the lookout then onto locations used in the Trilogy like the Outer Shire, Hobbiton Woods & Dunharrow. Then out to the Hutt Valley to Kaitoke Regional park, the location of Rivendell. Along the way visiting Isengard, Fords of Isen, the River Anduin and past the quarry where Helms Deep & Minas Tirith were filmed. The Full day tour also includes an Orc sized picnic lunch or café lunch plus a visit to the famous Weta Cave and now including the Weta Workshop tour.
Duration: This tour starts at 08.30am and returns at 04.30pm
Inclusions: Hotel pick up and drop off and lunch.
The Half Day Lord of the Rings Location Tour (allow 4 hours) is a ‘best of’ tour, showcasing the best locations around Wellington City. Including the Outer-Shire 'Get off the road' scene and the race to the Ferry. Also includes a stop at the Mt Victoria Lookout. Plus now including the Weta Cave & Weta Workshop Tour. This is the best way to see Wellington's Lord of the Rings locations in half a day with a knowledgeable Lord of the Rings specialist guide.
Duration: This tour departs at 08.30am and returns at 12.30pm
Inclusions: Hotel pick up and drop off
An intimate, small group tour looking at the unique aspects of the World’s Coolest Little Capital. Drive through Courtenay Place and Oriental Parade and head up Mt Victoria for spectacular views of the City and Harbour. Then travel the stunning, rugged coastline, now a marine reserve, stopping along the way to taste some famous Wellington coffee.
Return to the central city for a drive through the quirky Cuba Street district and along Lambton Quay, the main shopping street, for a chance to ride the famous Wellington Cable Car. We finish the tour with stops at Parliament and Old St Paul’s Cathedral.
Duration: This tour departs at 09.00am and returns at 1.30pm
Inclusions: Hotel pick up and drop off; entry fees and morning tea.
Inspiring Vacations has been globally recognised and awarded for its handling of COVID-19 during the pandemic. The safety and wellbeing of our guests is our highest concern during this time of uncertainty, and we are continuously monitoring the evolving COVID-19 situation.
We have adopted the advice of the WHO to ensure all customers can travel with the knowledge of how to travel safely and with confidence.
Australian owned and operated with 100% Australian Customer Service support
We are proudly 100% Australian owned and operated, with our head office located in Melbourne, Victoria. When you make your booking, you will receive dedicated and ongoing support from our team of travel professionals throughout your booking, up until you are due to depart.
Cooling off period
If you change your mind within 7 days of making your booking online, you can request a refund of your initial deposit payment as part of our cooling off period. Once your purchase date falls outside of the 7 day period, our standard terms and conditions will apply.
Please ensure that any request to cancel your booking is received via email to [email protected], including the reason for cancellation.
Deposit & Payments
Booking Process
Booking On Request:
For rental car collection up to 31 December 2021
Driver License Requirements
All Renters and any additional drivers must present a full, valid national Drivers License that meets the following requirements:
1. The Drivers License for all drivers must be presented at the time of rental
2. Drivers License must be in English
3. If not in English, it must be accompanied by an International Drivers License or Permit by a certified English translation
4. Chinese Driver’s Licenses are acceptable, but they must have a China Notarial Certificate (CNC):
a.Is valid for driving the vehicle;
b. Is not a learner’s permit;
c. The driver has held for at least twelve consecutive months; and
d. Satisfies any other conditions on the Rental Agreement or in any additional terms
Digital Drivers License
A Digital Drivers License is not accepted. Drivers require a hard copy license until further notice.
Deposit
All rentals are subject to a deposit to cover additional costs. A min of NZ$200 applies if using a credit card in the name of the renter. Cash deposits are NO longer accepted.
Rates Include
Maximum Cover (MAX) with NIL Damage Excess, Unlimited Kilometres, Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) subject to Accident Damage excess, Admin Fee Recovery (AFR), 24Hr Breakdown Roadside Assistance, Goods & Service Tax (GST)
Rates Exclude
Airport/Ferry Concession Fee Recovery (ACFR), Fuel, Optional Extras (baby seats, snow chains etc)
Damage Excess for Cars
NIL
Young Renters Fee
A Young Renter Fee of $20.00 including GST per day, per renter will apply to all renters aged between 18-20 years. This will be capped at 10 days in every 30-day rental. Standard Rental conditions will apply and only a full driver’s licence will be accepted. This fee will apply to all main renters and additional drivers.
Hertz Standard Terms and Conditions can be found here
For rental car collection from 1 January 2022
Driver License Requirements
All drivers must be 21 years old or over and hold a Full, current non probationary drivers licence (with an English translation shown on the driver licence) for their home country. If the licence is not issued fully (i.e. every single endorsement) in English, it must be accompanied by either an international driver permit or an approved translation. There is no maximum age for hiring a vehicle in New Zealand.
Each additional driver will cost $5+GST NZD per day up to a maximum of $25+GST NZD for the entire length of rental. Partner / Spouse (not restricted to marriages / relationships between individuals of any gender) are exempt from this fee. All additional drivers must meet the above criteria
Deposit
A credit card issued in the renter’s name must be provided at time of collection. A minimum of $100 NZD pre-authorisation will be charged plus total value of any optional extras elected
Damage Excess Reduction
Nil.
Exception: Chip on windscreen will incur a $60+GST fee
Cost of tyre replacement is not covered unless the Road Side Assistance is purchased at the counter.
Rates Include
Goods and Services Tax (GST), currently at 15%, Unlimited kilometres Standard Motor Vehicle Damage Waiver
Rates Exclude
Special Request Delivery Fees, Optional Extras (GPS, child safety seats, etc), Damage Excess Reduction, Fuel.
These above items are to be paid directly by the clients on car collection.
Budget Standard Terms and Conditions can be found here
Upgrade to an Intermediate SUV (Toyota RAV 4 or similar)
You may want to upgrade your car hire to a larger Intermediate 4WD, 5 Doors, Toyota Rav 4 or similar for an extra $220 in total.
Bring Your Own Vehicle (No Car Rental Included)
You can opt to drive your own vehicle. A total of $300 per person (two people booking) or $600 (one person booking) will be reduced from the total price.
COVID-19
Due to COVID there maybe disruptions to standard operating schedules of particular components of this itinerary. Should a component be effected a substitute will be confirmed prior to departure.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a “3”.
3 – Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard.
Pre and post-trip accommodation
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour, to give you more time in New Zealand
Please specify in the 'Special Request' field when making your purchase your preferred travel arrangements and if you would like our team to book additional nights' accommodation. The additional cost for these land arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $1,286 per person in addition to the twin-share price.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is required to protect yourself against the unexpected.
Tour Documentation
Final documentation including e-tickets and hotel details, will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.
Children
Children must be 5 years or over and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Group Size
This package is made up of multiple components which will be provided by different operators throughout your trip. As such, group size will differ between operators and can be as intimate as 2 people or as lively as up to 60 people, depending on the activity and advertised inclusions. There may be unique cases where your selected travel date exceeds the expected group size for special events or types of activities, particularly during popular times of travel. For packages that include a train or cruise, you will be travelling with other passengers up to the capacity of this component.
When travelling with a group, no matter the size, we ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience.
Bedding requests
We do our best to meet your bedding preference, however, bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only and cannot be guaranteed. All efforts will be made to meet your preference, however, any changes are beyond our control and limited by the hotel facilities and availability.
Tour Styles - This package is an Independent style.
To meet the needs of various types of travellers, we choose to operate various types of tours and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
Who is operating this package
We have partnered with a wide range of third party operators who assist in fulfilling your booking and delivering an enjoyable on-tour experience. Each package will consist of multiple operators meaning both guides and fellow travellers may change day to day. But don't worry, regardless of the operator, you'll be in good hands to experience the most out of each destination.
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