Accom: First Class, Auckland 2 nts

                              Wilderness Experience

Only 30 kilometers from downtown Auckland are the Waitakere Ranges. Visit the Arataki Centre perched high on the ridge of the Ranges with views of both coasts and magnificent Maori carvings. We continue to KareKare beach, the location for the award winning movie "the Piano". where our guide will explain all about the fascinating local history, flora and fauna of the region and you get the opportunity to stroll on an unspoiled black sand beach. Our journey then takes us into dense rainforest, giant Tree Ferns and New Zealand’s famous Kauri trees. Along the walk native birds and magnificent Waterfalls give our visitors a true insight and feel for our unspoiled native bush - a classic kiwi experience.

Day 2                      Island Bird Sanctuary

Get up close and personal with one of the world's most successful conservation projects - and see some of New Zealand's most endangered birds and rare wildlife in this open sanctuary.

Guided walks provide expert commentary and lend context to both animal life and the historical and archaeological features of the island. Those with an interest in eco-tourism, indigenous history and early New Zealand will find this discovery of particular interest. Walking tracks and look-out points offer spectacular views of the Hauraki Gulf.

Day 3           Drive to Waitomo

                               Waitomo Caves

The Waitomo glowworm, Arachnocampa luminosa, is unique to New Zealand. Thousands of these tiny creatures radiate luminescent light as you learn about the Caves' historical and geological significance. Over your 45 minute guided tour, take in the Glowworm Cave with its majestic and ornate cave decorations, the deep limestone shaft known as the Tomo and the equally magnificent Cathedral cavern where New Zealand's own opera diva Kiri Te Kanawa once performed. Your tour guide will deliver an informative and entertaining commentary, sharing stories, cultural legends and the natural wonders of this living masterpiece. Your visit concludes with a boat trip through the Glowworm Grotto.

Accom: First Class, Rotorua 2 nts

Day 4                      Geothermal Wonderland

Experience the amazing geothermal activity, gushing geysers, boiling mud pools and the many colors of every tint and hue displayed in pools, lakes, craters, steaming vents and mineral terraces of Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. Then enjoy the Waimangu Volcanic Valley nature walk amidst a stunning volcanic landscape with spectacular views of hot crater lakes, steaming cliffs, hissing fumeroles, colorful silica terraces, rare thermally adapted plants and the opportunity to see some of NZ’s native birdlife.