Day 1 Auckland
Arrive at any time. It’s time to make some memories! Join your CEO and group for a night out in Auckland. Choose to enjoy dinner somewhere tasty as a group before heading to Giapo ice cream parlour—contributor to Planeterra or to check out craft beer bars downtown like, Little Creatures and Habana Joe's. Make sure you take loads of pictures because you’ll want to remember this special night.

Arrive in Auckland at any time. There are no planned activities during the day, so check into the hotel and explore the city. Visit the Maritime Museum, walk the waterfront, or even take the ferry to Waiheke Island.

Day 2 Auckland/Bay of Islands
Get off the beaten path and travel north on backroads, stopping to see giant kauri trees (some of the largest trees in the world) along the way. Then hop in crystal clear waters for an included snorkelling activity at the Goat Island Marine Reserve. See what life under the sea is all about before boarding a large houseboat for an overnight trip through the beautiful Bay of Islands.

Depart early and travel to a local reserve with giant kauri trees. Native to New Zealand, these trees are some of the largest in the world. Learn about their importance to European settlement in New Zealand. Head to the Goat Island Marine Reserve for an included activity of snorkelling to see abundant sea life (seasonal). Continue on to the Bay of Islands and board a houseboat – your home for the night. While on board, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins that may be frolicking nearby! (B, D)

Day 3 Bay of Islands/Paihia
Make the most of your time on the boat with a free morning to do all of the things you didn’t get to do yesterday. Hop in the water for some kayaking or snorkelling. Visit the nearby islands to do some more exploring, or maybe try your hand at fishing. Then, it’s time to hop off the boat and give the town of Paihia some love. Do some hiking through the lush native forest, go chase some waterfalls, walk along the beach, or grab ice cream and cool off in town while people watching. Then find your group for dinner together in this backpacker haven.

Enjoy a morning of activities from our boat base. Then travel back to the mainland for a walk around the small town of Paihia. An optional visit to the Treaty House in the nearby town of Waitangi is highly recommended. (B, L, D)

Day 4 Paihia/Auckland
It’s always nice when you get some time to catch your breath! Take advantage of this free morning in Paihia to stroll the waterfront, check out the historic Waitangi Treaty grounds, lounge in the town centre with an ice cold drink, or go out on a whim and book a skydiving adventure. No matter what you decide you’re only real job today is to have some fun. The group returns to Auckland in the early evening where the tour finishes upon arrival.

Take advantage of optional morning activities such as skydiving, fishing or visiting the historic town of Russell. (B)

Now's the time to explore New Zealand on your terms with this tour that's affordable for young travellers. Water babies, unite! Nature is calling your name to this four-day trip through New Zealand's Bay of Islands. Explore this outdoorsman’s (or outdoor person's, rather) paradise full of hiking trails, secluded swimming and snorkelling spots, and endless coasts for kayaking and sailing. Not enough for ya? A night aboard a houseboat should do the trick. We take care of all the fuss. All you need to do is have the time of your life.

• Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends
• Snorkelling in Goat Island Marine Reserve (seasonal)
• Overnight boat excursion with included activities onboard like snorkelling, fishing, and kayaking
• All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
• Hostels (2 nts, multi-share with 4-6 people)
  Houseboat (1 nt). All nights are multi-share on this trip
• 3 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners
• Transportation: Private vehicle
• Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides

• Walk amongst giant kauri trees
• Spend the night anchored in a secluded bay
• Savour a traditional barbecue in Paihia

Hostels (2 nts)
Paihia, New Zealand: The Bay Adventurer (or similar)
Auckland, New Zealand: Jucy Snooze Auckland (or similar)

Houseboat (1 nt)
Paihia, New Zealand: Rock Boat Cruise (or similar)

All nights multi-share

• Small group experience; Max 20, avg 14
• Some tours may include light hiking, biking, rafting, or kayaking in addition to walking.
• Please ask your Vacations To Go travel counselor for more information.

For G Adventures terms and conditions, please click here.

* The prices shown are U.S. dollars per person, based on double occupancy, and subject to availability. Prices quoted for land/cruise arrangements are subject to increase without notice. Once we have received your deposit, land/cruise prices are guaranteed. Air prices quoted via phone or email are subject to increase and are guaranteed only from the time that full payment is received. Also, air prices or air promotions mentioned on this site or on the phone do not include baggage fees imposed by airlines.