14 Day North Island Explorer Private Guided Tour

Explore the North Island with a private guided tour personalised to suit your group. Our private guided tours of New Zealand are hosted by one of the country’s leading tour guides. Your guide will meet your group at the airport and chauffeur your group to explore the destinations and activities included in your personalised tour package. They will tend to your needs and share valuable local knowledge with your group to enhance your holiday experience. We can cater for groups between 1-20 people.

Our private guided tours of New Zealand are flexible and are booked to suit your group’s travel dates and interests.

Read on for more information on the 14 Day North Island Explorer Private Guided Tour.

14 Day North Island Explorer Private Guided Tours of New Zealand

Day 1 Arrive Auckland

Arrive in Auckland – the “City of Sails” is New Zealand’s largest city and is bordered by two stunning harbours. Your tour guide will meet you at the airport and take you to your Auckland City accommodation.

In the afternoon explore Auckland City with your tour guide. You might like to visit the Sky Tower, Auckland Zoo or Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World; venturing to one of Auckland’s stunning beaches or West Auckland wineries; or doing a spot of shopping.

Stay 2 nights in Auckland City.

Day 2 Whale and Dolphin Safari

Leave the hustle and bustle of the city and discover the beautiful Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. This is visited by a staggering one third of all the types of marine mammals found on earth. Depart directly from the Viaduct Harbour aboard the 20 metre, purpose-built vessel ‘Dolphin Explorer’. Out on the sparkling waters of the Hauraki Gulf, encounter some of the most abundant marine life in New Zealand. Enjoy a 4.5 hour eco-cruise, including guaranteed whale and dolphin viewing – or you get a free trip! Friendly, knowledgeable guides. Commentary on the culture and history of the Hauraki Gulf. Fully licensed bar with snacks available for purchase.

Relax in Auckland for the afternoon exploring the city’s attractions with your guide.

Day 3 Bay of Islands + Discover the Bay Cruise

Travel time Auckland to Bay of Islands – 3 hours

Drive to the Bay of Islands, renowned for its 144 islands and surreal maritime park. Here you will find an abundance of marine life, including whales, penguins and dolphins.

In the afternoon, board the premium Discover the Bay Cruise and see for yourself the best of what the Bay of Islands has to offer. Journey to the Hole in the Rock and if weather permits, sail through it. See marine wildlife including Dolphins and stop off at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island to have a swim, go for a walk and relax.

Stay 2 nights in Paihia, Bay of Islands.

Day 4 Bay of Islands

Discover the wild northern reaches of New Zealand today with your guide – venture past forests and farmland and windswept beaches on the journey to Cape Reinga, where a lighthouse marks the northernmost tip of New Zealand.

Other options include venturing off-road to Cape Reinga via 90 Mile Beach, or experiencing a spectacular scenic flight over the Bay of Islands in a plane or helicopter.

Day 5 Coromandel Peninsula

Travel time Bay of Islands to Coromandel Peninsula – 6 hours

Renowned worldwide as a spectacular holiday destination, with warm white sandy beaches, misty rainforests and wilderness a-plenty, the Coromandel is the ideal place to relax and unwind. Relax on the coastline, exploring beaches, volcanic reefs and the world famous Cathedral Cove!

Whitianga is the main settlement of Mercury Bay, an attractive township with a deep-water harbour. Now a vibrant coastal town, Whitianga is evolving into a delightful place to visit. Whitianga has an excellent selection of restaurants and cafes, and the thriving retail community provides an interesting collection of outlets.

Stay 2 nights in Whitianga, Coromandel.

Day 6 Coromandel Peninsula + Glass Bottom Boat Tour

Today, join the Glass Bottom Boat for a unique boat cruise. Depart from the Whitianga Wharf to explore the breathtaking volcanic coastline, including the famous Cathedral Cove. See the stunning Champagne Bay, plus a range of blow holes and sea caves, including Orua’s Sea Cave, the second largest sea cave in New Zealand! See what lies above and below the surface in the Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve and be amazed by all the marine life to be seen. You can choose your own level of fun. Either sit back and enjoy the amazing marine life through the glass boat, or take the plunge and snorkel amongst the fish. All equipment supplied and no experience necessary. Blue penguins are a common sight year-round.

In the afternoon visit attractions, such as Hot Water Beach with your tour guide.

Day 7 Tauranga

Travel time Coromandel Peninsula to Tauranga – 2.5 hours

The Bay of Plenty is one of the most popular summer holiday destinations in New Zealand. Located along the idyllic Pacific Coast Highway it offers a great mix of activities, beaches and dining experiences. 

Tauranga is the main centre, whilst the coastal suburb of Mt Maunganui is the region’s seaside resort. Downtown Tauranga has several historically significant areas to view during a scenic walk around the area. The Strand waterfront area is modern and always buzzing, and is home to a number of cafés, restaurants and pubs.

Stay 1 night in Tauranga.

Day 8 Hobbiton > Rotorua

Travel time Tauranga to Matamata – 1 hour

Make your way to Matamata to discover the real Middle-earth on the most picturesque private farmland. Visit the Hobbiton Movie Set in a fascinating two-hour guided tour. The set has been completely rebuilt and will remain as it was seen in The Lord of the Rings films. There are spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges from the rolling green hills of the movie set, which is still a working sheep and beef farm. You can relax and soak up the unique atmosphere with a great cup of coffee or a light meal in The Shires Rest Café.

Travel time Matamata to Rotorua – 1 hour

Enjoy the scenic journey to Rotorua, distinguished by Maori culture and geothermal activity. This diverse city will put on a display as you encounter geysers, mud pools, steaming craters and 16 beautiful lakes.

In the evening, enjoy dinner at Rotorua’s most spectacular location – Skyline Restaurant. Sit back and relax as the views from the gondola unfold while you journey to the Skyline complex. The Skyline Restaurant will then serve you a mouthwatering taste of New Zealand. Feast on fresh soups and salads and seafood specialties such as mussels, queen scallops, sushi and sashimi. Enjoy carvery roasts of beef, lamb or pork with specialty sauces to match, with live cooking from your friendly chefs. Add to that a range of desserts, and you’ve got yourself a unique dining experience not to be missed. Tiered seating guarantees stunning views from every table!

At the top of the gondola you also have the option to add-on a thrilling Luge Ride, enjoy nature walks and visit the Jelly Belly Shop and Volcanic Hills winery and tasting room.

Stay 2 nights in Rotorua.

Day 9 Rotorua + Maori Cultural Experience

Relax in Rotorua for the day, with the option to take a trip to one of the surrounding towns. One destination you may want to visit is Hamurana—this small township with 900 dwellings is located 15 kms (20 mins drive) northeast of Rotorua, and is renowned for the stunning Hamurana Springs. A stream-side walk runs through a redwood grove with beautiful views of the crystal-clear water that runs into Lake Rotorua.

In the evening enjoy a Maori Cultural Experience including a Hangi Dinner. Hear stories and learn how Maori traditions live on today. Experience an authentic Maori welcome. Watch a challenge by the Maori warriors, a karanga (call) from the Maori women welcoming you onto the marae, and a whaikorero (welcome speech). Relax and enjoy the beautiful waiata (songs), the world renowned haka (challenge), and the elegant poi dance. Learn Maori customs including Maori musical instruments, haka and poi. The dining experience is a culinary opportunity like no other. Following dessert, you will be transported down into the valley to conclude your evening beside the awe inspiring Pohutu geyser.

Day 10 Taupo + Scenic Floatplane Flight

Travel time Rotorua to Taupo – 1 hour

Enjoy a short drive south to Taupo, rich in natural beauty with attractions such as the Huka Falls, relaxing boat cruises, and bungy jumping.

Enjoy a Peek at the Lake Scenic Floatplane Flight  as you take off from Taupo Bay, past Acacia Bay to Rangatira Point, viewing the crystal clear waters of Whakaipo Bay. Climb up through Mapara Valley, view red scoria quarries, then discover the headwaters of the Waikato River. Fly over the Craters of the Moon and over the Borefields of the Wairakei Power Station, followed by a circuit of the Huka Falls, over Taupo to land on the lakefront (20 minutes approx).

Stay 2 nights in Taupo.

Day 11 Taupo

Relax in Taupo for the day. Taupo is a great lake for water-skiing, sailing and kayaking. The Maori rock carvings at Mine Bay, which can only be seen from the water, make for a great boat trip or kayaking excursion. The forests surrounding the lake offer hiking and mountain biking to suit all levels of experience. Just north of Lake Taupo you’ll find New Zealand’s most visited attraction, the magnificent Huka Falls, where more than 220,000 litres of water thunder over the cliff face every second.

Option to take the plunge and enjoy bungy jumping or skydiving.

Day 12 Waitomo Caves > Hamilton

Travel time Taupo to Waitomo Caves – 2 hours

Venture to the Waitomo Caves, where you will enjoy the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and Ruakuri Caves Combo! Deep underground in the heart of the Waikato are a series of unique caves that will take your breath away. At the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, thousands of tiny glowworms cling to the cave ceiling, creating a starry sky within the underground night. Nearby, the Ruakuri Cave is home to an innovative spiral entrance, echoing waterfalls, and limestone that flows into delicate shawl-like formations.

Travel time Waitomo Caves to Hamilton – 1 hour

After your Waitomo Caves adventure journey to Hamilton, New Zealand’s largest inland city, situated on the banks of the Waikato River. Being in the hub of the central North Island, visitors have easy access to iconic attractions such as Waitomo Caves, Raglan’s surf coast and Te Aroha Mineral Pools. For fun – visit the chocolate and candy factory, Hamilton Gardens and the weekly markets. From cafés, art galleries and shopping, through to an ever changing calendar of high profile events, Hamilton is a great holiday destination.

Stay 2 nights in Hamilton.

Day 13 Hamilton

Relax in Hamilton for the day exploring attractions such as the Raglan’s surf coast, Te Aroha Mineral Pools, the chocolate and candy factory, Hamilton Gardens and the weekly markets with your tour guide.

With a young, smart and innovative population, Hamilton’s warm and welcoming spirit, rich history and contrasting splendours ensure visitors are spoilt for choice for places to relax and enjoy. From magnificent parks and gardens to a thriving cultural precinct, the city offers a vibrant combination of fine dining and nightlife options as well as an eclectic mix of leisure, lifestyle and activity choices.

Day 14 Auckland

Travel time Hamilton to Auckland – 1.5 hours

Journey back to Auckland at your leisure. Relax in Auckland for the afternoon or join the crew and enjoy an America’s Cup Sailing experience, a must do attraction in Auckland, spend 2 hours out on the harbour on an actual America’s Cup yacht!

Enjoy your last evening in Auckland and raise a glass to a fantastic New Zealand Guided Tour!

Stay 1 night in Auckland City.

Day 15 Depart Auckland

Your guide will deliver you to Auckland Airport for your departing flight.

Planning Private Guided Tours of New Zealand

As we find each traveller is different, each of the private guided tours of New Zealand that we plan and book is different. Our team will work with you to design the perfect itinerary to suit your interests. 

Our private guided tours of New Zealand include all transportation, from airport to airport, as well as the services of your guide throughout your holiday. In addition, we include excellent accommodation plus a range of fantastic activities to help you experience the best of our country.

As you begin planning your guided tour of New Zealand, you may wish to explore our New Zealand Guided Tours brand. We offer a wide range of itineraries of all lengths to serve as inspiration. 

Contact New Zealand Travel Organiser today to begin planning your bespoke privately guided tour.