Traditionally New Zealand’s South Island gets a lot of attention due to the adventure capitals of Christchurch and Queenstown. However, the North Island has a range of unique activities that travellers can enjoy. Travellers can explore the thriving cities of Auckland and Wellington, catch some rays at the gorgeous beaches along the coastline, or go wine-tasting at lush vineyards.
Originally covered in forests, the North Island still has many areas where you can enjoy unique and magnificent trees and plants. Amongst New Zealand’s native trees are the Totara, Rimu, and Matai with the most impressive of being the Kauri. These can grow to an enormous size and age. Adding a bright red hit to the fauna and flora is the Pōhutukawa, also known as the New Zealand Christmas tree, all along the coast of the North Island and provides welcome shade on the beaches in the summer. It is because of the bright red flowers it produces around Christmas that it is known as the New Zealand Christmas tree.
The culture of the indigenous people of New Zealand, the Māori, is much more evident in the North Island than the South Island. Travellers can explore this fascinating culture and history at Waitangi in the Bay of Islands – the place where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed between Māori and European settlers in 1840.
The centre of the North Island sits right on top of an active part of the earth’s crust and is a wonderland of geothermal activity. Be awe-struck by the geysers and thermal pools that can be found across the country.
Auckland and Wellington, both cosmopolitan cities, offer a huge array of places to shop with a world-class reputation for fashion, clothing, wine, gourmet foods and art. Travellers will have access to a diverse range of unique local Māori and Pacific-inspired souvenirs while they are visiting.
Grand Pacific Tours has launched an exclusive campaign that allows travellers to indulge with a free night on them in the City of Sails – Auckland with their New Zealand’s Northern Exposure offer.
Managing Director of Grand Pacific Tours, Peter Harding says “Not only can travellers enjoy a free night in Auckland, world class entertainment and luxurious amenities but also see the best of the North Island’s iconic attractions and stunning scenery on a fully escorted coach holiday.”
“Accompanied by a Professional Coach Captain throughout your trip, your journey will be stress-free as you learn about facts, myths and legends of New Zealand, whilst having many laughs along the way.”
Experience the 9 Day Ultimate North Island Escape tour onboard the Ultimate coach. The Ultimate Coach features 20 luxury leather seats, panoramic viewing and a level of unparalleled comfort with extensive onboard features including the latest finishes and technology. Enjoy 8-nights in 4½ star accommodation and be treated like a VIP as you enjoy a range of attractions, speciality meals and entertainment.
Highlights of the tour includes a visit to the Waitangi ground, a unique Hole in the Rock cruise in subtropical Bay of Islands, a Māori hāngi and concert, a Shire’s buffet lunch at the Hobbiton™ Movie Set, and a farewell dinner in Wellington.
On the 9 Day Northern Spectacular tour, travellers will travel from Auckland to Wellington on a modern 48-seater coach with modern amenities, making sure you can enjoy spectacular scenery from pure comfort. Highlights include a visit to the Hobbiton™ Movie Set, the Skyline Rotorua gondola and luge ride, as well as visit to New Zealand’s art deco capital, Napier. Bask in the beauty that is the Rimutaka Mountain Range before heading to Wellington to prepare for the flight back to Australia.
The 8 Day Taste of the North Island tour, part of Grand Pacific Tour’s Affordable Coach Tours series, is ideal for the budget conscious traveller. Starting in the “coolest little capital in the world”, Wellington, travellers will be whisked from the bottom to the top of the North Island all the while experiencing the beauty of Lake Taupo, geothermal Rotorua and the Bay of Islands. On this exclusive offer, travellers can extend their stay in the City of Sails for an extra night before heading home.
“Taking a coach holiday is the best way to make your holiday an unforgettable experience. From the time you arrive in New Zealand, a friendly smile awaits,” Harding says. “New Zealand is a truly unique place with captivating landscapes and sensational culture. Experience it all on a fully escorted coach holiday with Grand Pacific Tours.”
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