14 Day North Island New Zealand Family Holiday Guided Tour

Experience the best of the North Island on a New Zealand family holiday. Your private guide will meet your family at the airport and take you on an insider’s tour of New Zealand, visiting iconic landmarks and local secrets alike. We offer the best flexible New Zealand escorted tours, with no date or itinerary restrictions. This privately guided New Zealand family holiday includes a personal tour guide/chauffeur plus private touring vehicle.

Read on for more details on this 14 Day North Island New Zealand family holiday.

14 Day North Island Family Guided Tour Itinerary | New Zealand Family Holiday

Day 1 Auckland + All Blacks Experience

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.

If you would like to get straight into nature; skipper an America’s Cup yacht or experience whale watching. Or visit top attractions such as the Sky Tower and Mt Eden’s volcanic crater.

Learn the story, feel the passion, and experience the All Blacks story up close and personal. The All Blacks Experience is a state-of-the-art guided encounter that showcases the All Blacks, and the other national teams in Black, through exceptional innovation and technology. This full sensory and interactive experience allows visitors to celebrate New Zealand’s rugby heritage, achievements and culture.

Your time at the All Blacks Experience will include a 45 minute guided tour where you learn what it takes to make, shape and be an All Black. This will include learning the story and feeling the passion behind the All Blacks haka! You can then test your rugby skills against All Blacks and Black Ferns in the hands on, interactive zone. 

In the evening the fairy lights of Federal Street will lure you into some of the finest restaurants in Auckland or head down to The Viaduct, a food and drinks hub in central Auckland.

Stay 1 night in Auckland.

Day 2 Bay of Islands + Waitangi Treaty Grounds

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.

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.

Stay 3 nights in Paihia, Bay of Islands.

Day 3 Discover the Bay Cruise + Russell

Board your 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, enjoy a BBQ lunch and relax.

In the afternoon, you might like your guide to take you to Russell. Russell is a significant place in New Zealand’s history, being New Zealand’s first European settlement and sea port. Russell is also home to the Duke of Marlborough, New Zealand’s first licensed hotel and pub.

Day 4 Cape Reinga + Waipoua Forest

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. As the largest remaining tract of native forest in Northland, 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 and still growing.

Day 5 Hamilton

Travel time Bay of Islands to Hamilton – 5 hours

Hamilton’s warm and welcoming spirit, rich history and contrasting splendours ensure visitors are spoilt for choice. From magnificent parks and gardens to a thriving cultural precinct, the city offers a vibrant combination of dining, leisure and activity choices for your New Zealand family holiday.

Explore attractions with your guide such as Raglan’s surf coast; relax at a beachside cafe and enjoy the scenery or get amongst it and learn to surf! Soak in the natural, silky mineral water that has made Te Aroha Mineral Pools famous for over 100 years. Meander through the Hamilton Gardens and discover paths delivering mysterious surprises.

Stay 1 night in Hamilton.

Day 6 Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour + Taupo

Travel time Hamilton to Waitomo Caves – 1 hour 

Venture off the beaten track as your guide takes you on a scenic drive to the Waitomo Caves. 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 vast caverns as you explore the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where you will be dazzled by a galaxy of glowworms overhead.

Travel time Waitomo Caves to Taupo – 2 hours 

Enjoy the scenic drive to Taupo, a small town set beside New Zealand’s largest lake. With the volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park looming in the distance, and the lake itself formed from an ancient volcanic crater, you will get a close-up look at the immense forces that shaped New Zealand.

Taupo is rich in natural beauty with attractions such as the Huka Falls. The Huka Falls is New Zealand’s most visited attraction, where more than 220,000 litres of water thunder over the cliff face every second. Visit this stunning natural attraction with your guide.

Stay 2 nights in Taupo.

Day 7 Rapids Jet + Taupo Attractions

This morning, slip into a life jacket, take a steadying breath, and get ready to enter the zone – where calm nerves meet big excitement and epic jet boating begins. A highly skilled driver gets everyone settled with a quick introduction to the stunning stretch of the Waikato River ahead. Then it’s all on – hang tight as the boat launches into a thrilling ride packed with sharp twists, tight turns, and bursts of speed.

Feel the rush of surfing the pressure waves of the famous Nga Awa Purua Rapids, and witness the spectacular Aratiatia Dam release from a rare, water-level perspective—an unforgettable sight seen from the jet boat. Skim through the narrowest channels of the river, spin across crystal-clear waters, and race past dramatic scenery. Along the way, there’s plenty to discover, from steaming geothermal waters at the river’s edge to fascinating local history and even filming locations from world-famous movies—keep an eye out in the trees and along the shoreline.

The lakeside town of Taupo also provides a base for visitors who love to fish for trout; guided fly fishing or lake fishing trips are popular options.

With the recent completion of the Great Lake Trail, Lake Taupō is a fantastic region for year-round mountain biking. You can add a guided mountain bike trip and take in the beauty of this unqiue landscape.

The Mind Junction Taupo is another great place to take the kids. An all weather activity park with a 2m high Giant Maze, an impressive LEGO display, mini golf and more. Confuse yourself in the Discovery Centre or become a pilot in the flight simulator. With coffee for parents needing a break from all of the excitement it is a great place to experience.

Day 8 Agrodome Farm Tour + National Kiwi Hatchery Guided Tour + Rotorua

Travel time Taupo to Rotorua – 1 hour

Your geothermal experience will continue as you enjoy the short drive to Rotorua. Tour the exciting geothermal attractions with your guide, visiting sulphur springs, mud pools, geysers, and sinter terraces.

Experience the world famous Agrodome Farm Show, it is a ‘must-do’ for any visitor to New Zealand. The show will take you through a fascinating insight into the world of New Zealand agriculture. During this multi award winning show you will be entertained and informed as a real kiwi shearer (black singlet and all) presents 19 breeds of champion sheep, shears a sheep using the world record Bowen technique, works the noisy Huntaway and silent Strong-Eyed dogs and completes the dog trial. Have the opportunity to milk a cow, feed a lamb and even buy a sheep!

After the Farm Show, take a ride on the Agrodome Guided Farm Tour around the picturesque working farm. Jump on the back of a tractor with one of the knowledgeable farming staff, stopping along the way for some up close encounters. Have the opportunity to hand feed a variety of NZ farm animals including cattle, alpaca, sheep and deer. Take a tour of our kiwifruit orchard for a peak under the vines and a chance to taste kiwifruit juice and farm honey.

Next visit the National Kiwi Hatchery and learn all about New Zealand’s national icon at the world’s leading kiwi hatchery and discover how they have successfully hatched over 2,100 kiwi chicks. Watch genuine ‘Conservation in Action’ in the purpose-built incubation facility and if you’re lucky see a newly hatched kiwi chick! After your 45-minute guided experience, take more time to learn in the interactive kiwi burrow – where you can stand in a human sized kiwi burrow or sit in a giant kiwi egg. See adult kiwi roam and forage in the purpose-built Nocturnal house.

Stay 2 nights in Rotorua.

Day 9  Zipline Canopy Tour + Māori Culture Evening Experience & Māori Hāngi Dinner

Zipline Rotorua’s ultimate adventure. Soar through an ancient forest on ziplines reaching speeds of up to 80km/h, gliding between treetop platforms up to 18 metres high. Swing bridges and hanging walkways carry you deep into the canopy for a thrilling, immersive experience unique to Rotorua.

The course winds through one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s last untouched ancient forests, now alive with birdsong after years of hands-on restoration. You may hand-feed curious robins, learn the forest’s secrets, and meet passionate guides guests call “superheroes.”

Named the world’s number one tourism activity seven times in nine years.

In the evening, enjoy a Māori Cultural Experience including a Hangi Dinner. Hear stories and learn how Māori traditions live on today. Experience an authentic Māori welcome. Watch a challenge by the Māori warriors, a karanga (call) from the Māori women welcoming you into 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 Māori customs including Māori 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 Hobbiton Movie Set Tour + Coromandel

Travel time Rotorua to Matamata – 1 hour 

Experience the magic of Middle-earth as you tour the Hobbiton Movie Set, where the charming village from The Lord of the Rings has been brought to life. You will be fully guided around the 12 acre set; past Hobbit Holes, the Mill and into the world-famous Green Dragon Inn. You will be presented with a complimentary, exclusive Hobbit Southfarthing beverage to conclude your own Middle-earth adventure.

Travel time Matamata to Coromandel – 2.5 hours 

Continue to the Cormandel. Renowned worldwide as a spectacular holiday destination, with warm white-sand beaches, misty rainforest and wilderness aplenty, the Coromandel is the ideal place to relax and unwind.

Whitianga is the main settlement of Mercury Bay, an attractive township with a deep-water harbour. Whitianga has an excellent selection of restaurants and cafés, and the thriving retail community provides an interesting collection of outlets.

Home to the world renowned Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach, Mercury Bay is known for its variety of marine experiences both on and under the water. From kayaking and fishing in and around the Mercury Islands to scenic boat trips in the Te Whanganui-O-Hei Marine Reserve, Whitianga and Mercury Bay have it all. Experience the magic and relax in the unspoiled playground of Mercury Bay – a recreational haven just waiting for you.

Stay 3 nights in Whitianga, Coromandel.

Day 11 Cathedral Cove Glass Bottom Boat Tour + Hahei

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.

For an afternoon of relaxation The Lost Spring in Whitianga offers the perfect retreat. Surrounded by tropical plants and soothing waterfalls, the thermal waters flow from a spring deep within the earth’s surface. With water temperatures ranging from 32°C to 41°C and pools no deeper than chest height, there’s a perfect spot for everyone.

Set amongst the treetops of lush native bush, The Lost Spring Day Spa is a destination for pure relaxation and pampering. Indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment, losing yourself amongst the sound of flowing water and birdsong that fills the native bush surrounding you.

Enjoy all-day dining in The Lost Spring historic school house restaurant, or the tree-top decks with views over the lagoon and waterfalls. Dining options can also be served poolside.

Day 12 Hot Water Beach + Hahei

Today, your guide will show you some of the best hidden secrets of the Coromandel, including lush forest walks and secluded golden-sand beaches.

Hahei is located 35 km or 30 minutes drive South East of Whitianga. Hahei is an attractive beach, fringed with pohutukawa trees and drifts of pink shells at the northern end. The offshore islands provide something of a breakwater, making this sheltered beach ideal for swimming, boating and snorkeling. Hahei also offers a number of cafes making it the perfect spot for lunch.

Hot Water Beach is a must-visit location in the area and is only 8km from Hahei. 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. Be sure to visit when it’s two hours either side of low tide, as that’s when the tide is low enough to expose the area of sand with the hot water underneath. Don’t forget to bring along your swimming gear and a spade or shovel – and if you don’t have a spade or shovel, you can hire one from the local cafés. It’s certainly a unique experience to be lying in a pool of hot water just metres from the refreshing ocean.

Day 13 Auckland + Sky Tower Admission

Travel time Coromandel Peninsula to Auckland – 3 hours 

Explore Auckland with your guide.

Spend some time relaxing at one of the numerous local beaches, visit Waiheke Island or try local cuisine.

Experience the incredible 360° views of Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland) from the iconic Sky Tower. View the city from 186 metres above the street, take in the beautiful views looking over the sparkling sunlit harbours and a number of ancient volcanoes within the greater Auckland area. Spot some of the city’s key landmarks and historical locations. On a clear day you can see approximately 82 kilometres (51 miles) from the Sky Tower.

This evening, discover Auckland’s diverse range of cuisine and check out the buzzing nightlife of the central city. Favourite spots include Wynyard Quarter, the Viaduct Harbour, the Britomart Precinct, City Works Depot and Federal Street.

Stay 2 nights in Auckland.

Day 14 Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari + Auckland

Today, leave the hustle and bustle of the city and discover the beautiful Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, which is visited by a staggering one third of all the types of marine mammals found on earth. Departing directly from the Viaduct Harbour, you will be welcomed aboard the 20 metre, purpose-built vessel ‘Dolphin Explorer’ for an unforgettable marine mammal eco-safari out on the sparkling waters of the Hauraki Gulf.

Whilst dolphins and whales are the focus of your sightings during this 4.5 hour trip, there are often orca, seals, turtles and a diverse variety of sharks. What makes this tour so unique is that the Hauraki Gulf has a small semi-resident population of critically endangered Bryde’s whales. Population size is estimated at just over 50. The fact that they are largely resident in the Marine Park makes them unique because these whales are normally migratory. Globally, they are classified as ‘data-deficient’ because there is not a sufficient amount of data available, which is the reason we have supported research into these mammals for over 18 years now. This is your opportunity to learn from the marine researchers on board working to protect the whales, dolphins and their fragile home.

Friendly, knowledgeable guides, commentary on the culture and history of the Hauraki Gulf, and a fully licensed bar with snacks available for purchase.

Enjoy your last evening in Auckland and celebrate a fantastic New Zealand Guided Tour!

Day 15 Depart Auckland

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

Plan a Guided New Zealand Family Holiday

We offer fully customisable, open-dated guided tours for groups of all sizes. Whether you are travelling with your immediate family or your extended family, our New Zealand tours are sure to suit.

As you plan your family holiday, we will discuss your interests and preferences to determine what you will enjoy most. After that, we will design your customised tour package. From there, we will work with you to further tailor this to suit.

Our guides are friendly and highly experienced at entertaining every member of your family. No matter the ages of your children, your New Zealand family holiday will prove a rewarding experience.

For more inspiration, browse our full range of family tours.

More New Zealand Family Holiday Itineraries

https://www.newzealandguidedtours.com/14-day-north-island-guided-tour/

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

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

https://www.newzealandguidedtours.com/10-day-new-zealand-family-guided-tour/

https://www.newzealandguidedtours.com/14-day-new-zealand-family-guided-tour/