Auckland, Wellington, and Northland hotels — North Island — Kuoni Travel Australia, New Zealand & South Pacific 2008/09 online holiday brochure

NORTH ISLAND EXPERIENCES north island experiences FOOTPRINTS TWILIGHT ENCOUNTER From Ł26 per person, ex Hokianga As night falls, take a guided walk through the Waipoua forest as the nocturnal creatures awake, and learn about the Maori culture and the deep respect they hold for the ancient Kauri trees. Hear stories and legends of the forest, of its gods and other spiritual inhabitants and meet Matua Ngahere, `Father of the Forest', nearly 4,000 years old and the oldest Kauri tree in the world, and the giant Tane Mahuta tree, the `Lord of the Forest'. BAY OF ISLANDS From Ł80 per person, ex Auckland This tour takes you through spectacular scenery of native forests and sub-tropical bush to the foreshores of the National Maritime Park. Stop to view the might Kauri trees and enjoy a scenic cruise from Paihia. You will see secluded bays, golden beaches, clear blue seas and an abundance of wildlife including marlin, whales, penguins, dolphins and gannets. This is a long day but well worthwhile especially if you are not going to have time to stay in the beautiful Bay of Islands. BAY OF ISLANDS HELICOPTER FLIGHT From Ł87 per person, ex Bay of Islands Take a scenic helicopter flight over some of the unique and stunning coastline surrounding the Bay of Islands, flying north over the outer islands, along the Purepua peninsula over coastal settlements and remote beaches up to the Cavalli Islands. Return via the picturesque Kerikeri Inlet and townships of Kerikeri and Waitangi before landing back on Paihia's waterfront. CAPE KIDNAPPERS GANNET SAFARI From Ł21 per person, ex Napier Travel in comfort in a four-wheel drive vehicle through a working sheep and cattle station and along the rugged Cape Kidnappers peninsula, traversing riverbeds, rolling pastures, native bush and breathtaking inclines. The peninsula is also home to the largest, most accessible mainland colony of gannets in the world. See adults and young nesting and in the air above your head, see these amazing birds with their six foot wing span. Scenic safaris are also available from May to August, when the gannets have flown overseas. TREATY OF WAITANGI NIGHT SHOW Ł21 per person, ex Bay of Islands This is New Zealand's story including the Treaty of Waitangi. This stunning night show recreates the story of New Zealand using live drama, authentic Maori culture and vibrant song and dance. A great way to gain an understanding of New Zealand and its people. CAPE REINGA BY AIR Ł138 per person, ex Bay of Islands Take a breathtaking scenic flight in a fixed wing Cessna up to Cape Reinga, on the tip of the North Island, passing over spectacular harbours and beautiful beaches including the famous Ninety Mile Beach. On arrival, your vehicle will meet the aircraft and take you on a 2˝ hour tour to Cape Reinga lighthouse, Tapotupotu Bay and across the Te Paki stream with its giant sand dunes. The flight back includes some of the most spectacular coastal scenery Northland has to offer. BAY OF ISLANDS SAILING Ł52 per person, ex Bay of Islands Sail from the quaint town of Russell, past the many islands and stop for a delicious lunch in a sheltered picturesque bay. With a small number of guests aboard, the day can be tailored to suit fishing, swimming, snorkelling, walking on deserted beaches or even trying your hand at sailing. With hundreds of beautiful beaches and exquisite bays to explore, your excellent hosts will give you an experience to remember. WILD WELLINGTON Ł103 per person, ex Wellington Stroll along Wellington's waterfront to the Museum of City & Sea and be entertained with Maori legends of sea monsters and warriors. Enjoy an exhilarating 4x4 journey to Seal Coast to visit a fur seal colony and take in the exceptional views - see where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean, the tumultuous waters of Cook Strait separating the islands and the distant mountain ranges of the South. Enjoy a bistro lunch followed by an invigorating bush walk in New Zealand's only botanic garden dedicated solely to native plants, including several 400 year old trees. ULTIMATE ROTORUA FIVE STAR PASS Ł119 per person, ex Rotorua A fantastic way to experience Rotorua's premier attractions at your own pace. See the natural and cultural wonders of Te Puia with a guided tour and a Maori feast. Relax at the Polynesian Spa and bathe in the Deluxe hot mineral pools overlooking Lake Rotorua. Journey to the top of Mount Ngongotaha in the Skyline Gondola and savour New Zealand's best buffet and grill with the award-winning `Cloudy Bay' wine. WAITOMO & ROTORUA From Ł108, ex Auckland Visit the renowned Waitomo Glowworm Caves, continuing on to the thermal city of Rotorua. Visit Rainbow Springs with its farm show before viewing the geysers and bubbling mud pools of the Te Puia Reserve and experience Maori Culture first-hand. 168

North Island contd… Auckland, Wellington, and Northland hotels