Depart Auckland and head north. Once over the Harbour Bridge we travel up the scenic east coast. A quick cafe stop at Waipu for those who tumbled out the door without time for breakfast, before we explore a brilliant locals spot - one of the best little glow-worm grottos in the country and a great starter cave for those new to this experience. Wet feet and a bit of muddy cave stream leads to a bright glow-worm chamber. No paths or electricity here - just a natural cave. Windy coastal back roads take us north to remote coast, far from the maddening crowds. Have the first swim of the trip or take a stroll along this great stretch of coast, or do both. The beach is lined with bright Pohutukawa trees (the New Zealand Christmas tree) which cover hidden coves. These waters also offer excellent snorkelling if the sea is calm. Later we arrive at our grassy campsites on Maori tribal-land, just above an idyllic Northland beach miles from any shop, accommodation or internet. We set up our tents (share or single) and sit on the beach with a glass of wine. Later we all pitch in to prepare a BBQ, no better way to get to know new friends than trying to flip Halloumi on a hot plate! Fall asleep to the lapping waves. Includes lunch and dinner.
Plop in to the sea for a refreshing wake up or wander the beach with a mug of tea in a more civilised fashion! We break camp and pack (lightly) for this incredible summery coastal walk. We begin hiking, ascending through regenerating native bush onto open ridge tops, where we’re treated to views of secret sandy coves and rocky headlands. Take a break and enjoy gazing across the sparkling blue waters of the Pacific. Along the trail, examine the whale pots of an old whaling station, left over from a time when whalers and sealers were the only Europeans interested in New Zealand. Dolphins can still often be seen around here, and very occasionally they choose to swim with us. We stop for a picnic lunch in a quiet cove with turquoise water and funky palm trees. The trail takes us to the summit of Pukehuia (345m), the highest point in the Bay of Islands, and the best spot to get a view of this magnificent area. Descending from Pukehuia we finish up in a quiet bush lined bay dotted with yachts. This is a great chance to take a dip in the clear water and freshen up after our walk. From here it's a short drive to the historic township of Russell. Take the ferry across to Paihia and enjoy the vibe of this cool little town before we drive further north to our campsite at Tauranga Bay and a welcome hot shower. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
From our beach-side camp we drive a few minutes to the start of a fantastic guided kayak trip (optional extra) along some of the area’s most remote coastline. Launching from a private beach, you paddle alongside craggy red volcanic headlands and inshore islands, through sea caves, and then enjoy lunch on an unspoiled sandy beach. Continue up into the sheltered waters of Whangaroa Harbour, either kayaking into the mangrove forests at the harbour's end or scramble up the short (but impossibly steep!) volcanic conglomerate of Kairara Rock and sit up on top of this most impressive butte and gaze out at the world below. If kayaking is a new challenge for you, we will match you in a double kayak. If you would rather not kayak, chat to your guide about the range of other hiking options, or simply chill out for the day, swimming and eating ice creams at the most agreeable Tauranga Bay. Tonight we 'dine' at the famous Mangonui Wharf Fish Shop en-route to the twin coves campsite, located in the charming Matai Bay. Includes breakfast and lunch.
Today we drive north along the giant tombolo of sand that connects the top of the mainland to the cape (an ancient marine volcano). We visit the mountainous sand dunes at the top of Ninety Mile Beach, and we stroll across the top of this surreal landscape. And those eager to test gravity can hurtle down on sand boards - hellishly good fun. Once you’ve exhausted all your sand board moves we continue on to yet another beautiful campsite in a small sandy cove. Plenty of time to set up camp in the afternoon sun, have a short zzzz and then either enjoy a cliff top walk, or grab a ride with the guide to the edge of the world –- the spiritual Cape Reinga -– where the waters of the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean collide. Watch the sun slip away from the northernmost tip of New Zealand and remember your friends are probably at work right now. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Time to relax this morning if you wish. Enjoy some conversation with the sea and the sky, or even your travel companions, as you amble through breakfast! Those keen for an adventure head off first thing with your guide to explore a wilder part of the Cape. Hike across Te Paki to the iron-stained sand dunes of Cape Maria van Diemen. Climbing high, you will get grand views of this incredible piece of New Zealand landscape - usually with no one else around. Stride up an expansive stretch of empty beach before returning for a late lunch. Then we turn south and drive through Kaitaia, crossing the Hokianga Harbour on a car ferry. In Maori mythology Hokianga is the returning place of the great Maori navigator Kupe. Another 30 min puts us in the grandeur of Waipoua Forest. Visit New Zealand’s biggest Kauri -– Tane Mahuta (Lord of the Forest) -– an ancient giant estimated to be over 1250 years old. We pitch camp amongst the kauri (and campervans!) and later do a night walk, creeping around to try and stumble across the endangered North Island Brown kiwi. Generally, we are successful, but not always! Later, listen for the screeching call of the kiwi as your curl up in your sleeping bag. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
This morning as we wander through the Trounson Kauri Reserve we feel like whispering as we sneak beneath these forest giants. The reserve is an intensively managed mainland ‘island’ surrounded by predator traps. The mainland island concept protects the resident birds from invasive pests and provides a refuge for many threatened species; it is home to a well-nurtured and protected population of kiwi. After lunch, we continue south to the vibrant harbour city of Auckland, arriving around 3pm. Includes breakfast and lunch.