10 Day North Island Luxury Guided Tour

Experience the top destinations of New Zealand’s North Island on this luxury guided tour. Indulge in comfort, style, and exclusive sightseeing with luxury travel to New Zealand.

Your private guide will meet you at the airport and take you on one of the best New Zealand escorted tours on the market, with luxury accommodation and special personalised experiences that will elevate your holiday experience to something truly incredible. We specialise in all types of luxury travel to New Zealand, from affordable luxury to high-end private tours.

10 Day North Island Luxury Guided Tour Itinerary

Day 1 Auckland

Auckland is a multi-cultural urban oasis of food, music, arts and culture. World-class shopping and phenomenal dining is never too far from harbours, islands, native bush and black-sand beaches.

Explore Auckland with your guide. You might like to experience some of the arts and culture Auckland has to offer. Learn about the Māori history and traditions at the Auckland War Memorial Museum. Explore the modern and traditional world-class exhibitions at Auckland Art Gallery.

If you would like to get straight into nature skipper an America’s Cup yacht or experience whale watching.

Option to visit top attractions such as the Sky Tower and Mt Eden’s volcanic crater.

In the evening the fairy lights of Federal Street will lure you into some of the finest restaurants in Auckland.

Stay 1 night in Auckland.

Day 2 Bay of Islands

Travel time Auckland to Bay of Islands – 3.5 hours 

Discover the stunning northern reaches of New Zealand today with your guide. The Bay of Islands is a subtropical micro-region made up of 144 islands known for its stunning beauty & history.

New Zealand’s newest Marine mammal sanctuary Te Pēwhairangi (Bay of Islands) boasts an abundance of marine life, which includes whales, dolphins, penguins, fur seals and a large variety of sea birds. For those that love nature, beaches and water activities, it’s paradise.

The bustling seaside town of Paihia has an extensive choice of activities, accommodation and delicious dining options. Paihia is the perfect base for discovering the coves and beaches of the Bay of Islands.

Stay 3 nights in Paihia.

Day 3 Bay of Islands + Discover the Bay Cruise + Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Board the premium cruise ‘Discover the Bay’ 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.

In the afternoon, discover the heart of Aotearoa at Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the birthplace of the nation. Walk through New Zealand’s most important historic site with full access to heritage buildings, museums, and iconic landmarks.

Stand before the world’s largest ceremonial waka, explore the interactive Te Kōngahu Museum of Waitangi and the moving Te Rau Aroha – Museum of the Price of Citizenship, then deepen your understanding on a 50-minute guided tour. Complete your visit with a powerful Māori cultural performance, bringing tradition, history, and storytelling to life.

A meaningful and unforgettable experience for every visitor.

Day 4 Bay of Islands + Cape Reinga

Visit the top of Aotearoa (New Zealand) and venture to Cape Reinga. This full day trip takes you to one of the most northern points of New Zealand where the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean collide.

On the way to Cape Reinga you could visit Gumdiggers park where ancient Kauri forest was buried thousands of years ago.

You could visit the world famous Mangonui Fish Shop for lunch and grab the freshest fish and chips as the sea washes gently beneath your feet.

If time permits visit Waipoua Forest. Waipoua is an ancient green world of towering trees and rare birds. This forest is the home of Tāne Mahuta, the country’s largest kauri tree, which is approximately 2,000 years old.

Day 5 Cambridge

Travel time Bay of Islands to Cambridge – 5 hours 

Nestled in the heart of the Waikato region, Cambridge is a charming, historic town known for its picturesque streets lined with heritage buildings, vibrant gardens, and a rich equine culture. Often referred to as the “Town of Trees and Champions,” Cambridge offers a welcoming atmosphere with easy access to outdoor activities, including cycling, walking trails, and nearby lakes. A visit here provides a perfect blend of small-town charm, rich history, and natural beauty, making it a must-see destination in New Zealand.

Stay 1 night in Cambridge.

Day 6 Footwhistle Glowworm Cave + Mt Ruapehu Scenic Flight + Taupo

Travel time Cambridge to Waitomo – 1 hour

Venture off the beaten track as your guide takes you on a scenic drive to Waitomo. The land is wilder around here, with limestone outcroppings emerging from farmland and densely forested hills rising all around, but the wildest landscape of all lies underground.

Witness the marvels of these ancient caverns as you embark on a private guided Footwhistle Tour with Cave World, where you will be captivated by the enchanting glow of thousands of glowworms illuminating the darkness above.

Travel time Waitomo to Taupo – 2 hours

Continue the drive to Taupo, through rolling farmland and scenic countryside.

Taupō is a relaxed lakeside town on New Zealand’s largest lake, known for its beautiful views, geothermal activity, and outdoor adventures.

Departing from Taupo Bay, head south to overfly Turangi, Mount Pihanga, Lake Rotoaira, the Blue and Emerald Lakes and the Tama Lakes to the summit of Mount Ruapehu. A circuit of the summit allows you to view the Crater Lake and the ski fields on the slopes of Mount Ruapehu. Continuing your journey, now northward, travel to Mount Ngauruhoe to view the centre of this classic volcano. Fly over Mount Tongariro to view the Red Crater, the Blue Lake and old lava flows before beginning your descent over Lake Taupo to land along the lakefront. Flight Time is approximately 60 minutes.

Stay 2 nights in Taupo

Day 7 Taupo Experiences

The lakeside town of Taupo provides a base for visitors who love to fish for trout; guided fly fishing or lake fishing trips are popular options. It is also a fantastic region for year-round mountain biking. The Great Lake Trails blend single track mountain biking with ever-changing views over Lake Taupo and Tongariro National Park. You can add a guided mountain bike trip and take in the beauty of this unique landscape.

Today, select from one of the following private experiences:

Greenstone Lake Hike (5.5 Hours)
Discover a hidden lake on the slopes of Mt Pihanga, formed by a landslide over 10,000 years ago. This peaceful loop walk winds through lush native forest and is rich in birdlife, volcanic history, and Māori cultural significance—perfect for walkers and nature lovers.

Fly Fishing (4 Hours)
Taupō’s world-renowned rivers and streams offer crystal-clear waters and outstanding trout fishing just minutes from town. Ideal for beginners and experienced anglers alike, with expert guides providing instruction or access to hidden local spots.

E-Bike Tour (3.5 Hours)
Cycle scenic trails to the Aratiatia Rapids and witness the dam gates opening as calm waters transform into a powerful surge. This guided e-bike ride suits confident cyclists and features mostly Grade 2 trails with some Grade 3 sections.

Boat Charter (3 Hours)
Relax on Lake Taupō, New Zealand’s largest lake, and enjoy uninterrupted views from the water. A laid-back cruising experience and a true Taupō must-do.

Day 8 Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland + Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa + Rotorua

Travel time Taupo to Rotorua – 1 hour 

Enjoy the scenic journey to Rotorua, along the way, visit Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland.

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is a spectacular showcase of New Zealand’s most colourful and unique geothermal elements sculpted by thousands of years of volcanic activity. The Lady Knox Geyser Show starts at 10:15 am so make sure you are there by then! Allow at least three hours to see everything and truly savour New Zealand’s most colourful geothermal park.

Continue to Rotorua, this diverse city will put on a display as you encounter dramatic geysers, bubbling mud pools, crystal-clear streams, magical forests and 18 beautiful fresh water lakes. Rotorua sits within the Pacific Ring of Fire, so volcanic activity is part of this town’s past and present. Rotorua is a geothermal wonderland and is the tribal home of the Te Arawa people, who settled in its lakeside geothermal area more than 600 years ago.

This afternoon, step into Wai Ariki, a place where Ngāti Whakaue culture, healing traditions, and warm hospitality converge. Nestled by the captivating Lake Rotorua, its name, ‘Chiefly Waters,’ reflects the majesty it holds. Owned and curated by the local iwi, you’ll discover the Wai Whakaora, a path to restoration, and the exclusive sanctuary, Āhuru Mōwai, both deeply rooted in Māori values. Experience a world of uniqueness that transcends borders and touches hearts. Wai Ariki awaits to embrace you with its magic. Relax and enjoy an exclusive selection of enriching spa experiences that connect you to culture and wellness, blending spa experiences and mineral bathing. Includes: Sanctuary Bathing (60 minutes), Traditional Māori massage (90 minutes).

Stay 2 nights in Rotorua.

Day 9 Rotorua + Te Pā Tū – Evening Cultural Experience & Hangi Dinner

Relax and explore Rotorua this morning, 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.

You also have the option to visit the Redwoods Treewalk, which features 23 suspension bridges through 115-year-old redwood trees, or explore the Government Gardens including the Tudor style bathhouse and Mediterranean styled Blue Baths, located on the waterfront of Lake Rotorua.

In the evening, immerse yourself in Māori culture with the Te Pā Tū Evening Cultural Experience & Hāngi Dinner. Enjoy traditional storytelling, song, and dance before sharing a delicious seasonal hāngi feast cooked in an earth oven. This unforgettable evening celebrates Māori heritage, connection, and hospitality in a truly authentic setting.

Day 10 Auckland

Travel time Rotorua to Auckland – 3.5 hours

As your tour draws to a close, return to Auckland.

Explore Auckland with your guide this afternoon. You may want to do a spot of shopping at the Britomart Shopping Precinct, Britomart is a treasure trove for fashion, beauty and specialty boutiques. Its hip bars and eateries are also the perfect place to wind down after you’ve shopped up a storm.

Discover Auckland’s diverse range of cuisine and check out the buzzing nightlife of the central city. Favourite spots include the Viaduct Harbour, the Britomart Precinct and Federal Street.

Head on down to the Viaduct Harbour for variety of atmospheres. You will discover a waterfront vibe with all day bistros and cosy café’s to live music, rooftop cocktail bars and some classic Kiwi and Irish pubs.

Every Auckland foodie puts Federal Street on their go-to spot for great food, great wine and a great atmosphere. Situated beneath the Sky Tower in Auckland, Federal Street comes into its own after dusk, as 20,000 twinkling lights illuminate the street. Federal Street is home to some of the best restaurants in Auckland, including Al Brown’s fast-paced eatery and oyster bar Depot and the chic and elegant Dine by Peter Gordon.

Stay 1 night in Auckland.

Day 11 Depart Auckland

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

Planning Luxury Travel to New Zealand

Each luxury tour we book is bespoke and carefully crafted. We work with each client to determine what experiences and level of indulgence they are hoping for.

Luxury travel to New Zealand is a rewarding experience, and we pledge to provide an unforgettable tour. From exquisite luxury lodges to premium helicopter tours, New Zealand leads the world in luxury travel. For more inspiration, view our New Zealand Luxury Escapes brand.

We also offer a 10 Day South Island Luxury Guided Tour and a 10 Day New Zealand Luxury Guided Tour.

https://www.newzealandguidedtours.com/7-day-north-island-luxury-guided-tour/

https://www.newzealandguidedtours.com/14-day-new-zealand-must-do-escorted-tour/