Meet your guide this morning and drive north out of Auckland along the scenic east coast, stopping to explore glowworm caves along the way. Negotiating some crazy coastal back roads gets us to remote coast, far from the maddening crowds. The beach is lined with bright pohutukawa trees (NZ Christmas Tree) which cover hidden coves. Have the first swim of the trip or take a stroll along this great stretch of coast, or do both. These waters also offer excellent snorkelling if the sea is calm, and are loaded with octopus, paua and many species of coastal fish. We eventually arrive at our grassy campsite, just above an idyllic Northland beach and miles from any shop, accommodation or internet. Includes lunch and dinner.
Tumble out of sleeping bags and leap into the sea for a refreshing wake up. We begin hiking 5 min from our campsite, 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. 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.
Today you have the opportunity to go on a fantastic guided kayak trip (optional extra) along some of the areas most remote coastline. Launching from a private beach, you will paddle around 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, before returning. 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.
Matai Bay is another great spot for swimming and snorkelling, so hit the water again this morning before we jump in the bus and drive north once more. Lap up the freedom and admire the waves rolling in from the Tasman Sea as we visit the sands at the top of Ninety Mile Beach. We arrive at Te Paki's mountainous sand dunes, grab a sandboard and impress the group with out of control fat-air-antics and displays of your brilliant balance. Once you've exhausted all your sandboard 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.
Today we explore a more secluded part of the Cape as we cross Te Paki Station to the surreal iron-stained sand dunes of Cape Maria Van Diemen. Climbing high, you will get grand views of this incredible piece of New Zealand landscape. Wander along an expansive stretch of empty beach before returning for lunch. Then we turn the van around and drive south through the town of Kaitaia, crossing the Hokianga Harbour on a car ferry and ending up in the grandeur of Waipoua Forest. Visit New Zealands 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 later do a night walk, creeping around to try and stumble into 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 wander around the Trounson Kauri Reserve and bask in the shadows of these huge trees. 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.
Notes
Tides: This tour is affected by tide times and sea conditions - particularly on Ninety Mile Beach. Plan B is to go in a different or reverse order, but very occasionally your guide may be forced to skip something altogether.
High Season: If you are doing this trip between Christmas and mid January expect to see more tents, sun-scorched folks, and ice-creamed kids at campsites. When it all goes too mad your guide may choose different campsites on night two and three to keep us all sane.
