Hobbiton & Coastal Wonders

After breakfast it's time to travel south from Auckland, passing through its vibrant southern suburbs before ascending the Bombay Hills, which mark the boundary of the Auckland region. At Pokeno, turn east toward the stunning Coromandel Peninsula, a beloved getaway renowned for its golden sand beaches, lush native forests, and breathtaking coastal landscapes.

Upon arrival, check in to the Grand Mercure Puka Park, a secluded retreat nestled amid native bush. Spend the afternoon at leisure—relax on the pristine beaches or embark on an invigorating adventure such as the Pauanui Mountain Summit Trail. This rewarding hike ascends through dense forest to a 400-meter-high summit, offering panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding islands.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner at the hotel.

If you are familiar with the 2005 film Chronicles of Narnia, then you’ll already be somewhat familiar with Cathedral CoveI. It’s a stunning hour-and-a-half return walk along the coastline to Cathedral Cove. As you emerge through the picture-perfect archway framing the beach, you'll be greeted by stunning sea cliffs and pristine emerald waters. Other notable features include Te Hoho, a pinnacle of pumice breccia rock shaped like the prow of a ship, and the Te Whanganui-o-Hei Marine Reserve, a sanctuary for diverse marine life that thrives on its sandy flats and rocky reefs. To see the scene from Narnia click here.
lunch in Hahei (own cost) before departing to Hot Water Beach. 
Dig your own natural hot pool metres from the Pacific Ocean at world-famous Hot Water Beach (hire a spade or shovel from a local café – own cost). Naturally heated mineral water bubbles up from deep within the earth to emerge through golden sand at the appropriately named Hot Water Beach.  To find the hot water area, head towards the rocks at the southern end of the beach and here you can dig your own spa pool in the sand.  It's certainly a unique experience to be lying in a pool of hot water just metres from the refreshing ocean. The long sandy beach stretches north and curves east under a headland. Here you'll find sheltered and secluded spots for quiet, sleepy sunbathing. There are also some cafés and galleries nearby.
We will again overnight at Grand Mercure Puka Park,

Meals: Breakfast

Today it's time to visit Middle-earth and the many adventures that await us therein. Our explorations lead us to the Hobbiton Movie Set, the bucolic setting for The Shire  that featured in the Peter Jackson directed films, The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. The journey begins with a guided tour as we traverse the picturesque 1,250 acre sheep farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges. Your guide will escort you through the ten acre site recounting fascinating details of how the Hobbiton set was created. The Hobbit holes, Green Dragon Inn, Mill and other structures created for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films can be easily observed and it's possible to see how this beautiful piece of Waikato farmland was transformed into The Shire from Middle-earth. Upon completion of your tour, we will enjoy a complimentary beverage at the Green Dragon Inn. 

We continue over the Kaimai ranges into the picturesque Bay of Plenty Upon arrival, we will visit the town of Mt Maunganui, often refered to as The Mount by locals. The Mount is a laid back suburb set on a peninsula surrounded by spectacular white sand beaches suitable for both swimming and surfing. Perhaps most iconic is the mountain Mount Maunganui, or Mauao, which rises 232 meters from the sea. The walking tracks to the top of this extinct volcano provide 360 degree views which span the entire length of the Bay of Plenty. 
The afternoon is at leisure to spend at The Mount where you can relax on its glittering beaches, hike to the top of Mount Maunganui or go shopping in the many boutiques dotted along The Mount’s main street. We will overnight at Trinity Wharf in Tauranga.

Meals: Breakfast

Following breakfast we will depart to Gisborne. The route takes us along the east coast of the North Island where we will pass through the small towns of Matata and Thornton before reaching Whakatane. Whakatane is the heart of the eastern Bay of Plenty, as it aligns with its spectacular coastal shore and contains a rich cultural history. Here we will have time to purchase lunch before departing through the Waioeka Gorge. As we arrive into the sunny township of Gisborne we will check into our chosen accommodation.   

Meals: Breakfast

Shared double room:  NZD 2490  
Single room supplement:  NZD +990

• Meals as stated in the itinerary 
• Transportation as stated in the itinerary 
• 4 nights accommodation including breakfast 
• City Tour in Auckland
• Hobbiton Tour
• Albatros tourleader