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Whakatane

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Whakatane (August 16th)

This morning you have the chance to go on a spectacular scenic flight (optional activity) with many great options, such as flying around the continuously active volcano of White Island, which includes Whale Island and Ohope Beach. Other options are Mt Tarawera, including Waimangu Volcanic Valley and the East Cape Lighthouse. Please note the flights are an extra optional activity at your own expense. Please see the information sheet for more details.

If you prefer, you can choose to have a relaxed start to the day before we all meet mid-morning and head out to discover the extraordinary story of the house that has travelled through time. We embrace the culture and learn the story of Mataatua- The House That Came Home, when we visit New Zealand’s only repatriated and most travelled Maori meeting house.

We then board the coach and head out to a great local cafe for lunch before we experience one of the top attractions Whakatane has to offer. With Awakeri Rail Adventures you will travel along a piece of New Zealand's rich rail history and experience the natural beauty and adventure from the comfort of a rail-cart, cleverly adapted to be self-driven along the rail tracks. Your adventure starts from Awakeri travelling at a leisurely 20 kilometres per hour and there are 4 bridges, numerous cuttings, and bush scenes along the track to enjoy. Upon our return to base, we have some afternoon tea before heading back to our hotel.

Again, you will be given some free time to explore town if you wish before heading out for another great group dinner.

Accommodation: Tuscany Villas Boutique Hotel

Whakatane – Hicks Bay (August 17th)

After breakfast we say goodbye to Whakatane and head east to check out Ohope beach which has been voted New Zealand’s most loved beach. Continue around the picturesque Ohiwa Harbour before reaching the long, undeveloped beaches at Waiotahi and Tirohanga. We then hit the enchanting SH35 – the Pacific Coast Highway. With numerous clear rivers descending from bush-clad hillsides as we follow the rocky coastline from bay to bay, this drive will be one to remember.

After our leisurely scenic morning drive, we arrive at Te Kaha Beach Resort where we take in the magnificent views while enjoying a delicious group lunch.

This afternoon, we follow the coast towards the most eastern point and visit the exceptional Manuka World. Here we learn about the pioneers of Manuka Oil who have been exporting this product for over 25 years. Our tour consists of a brief history of this area, a walk around the facility, an explanation on the harvesting and extraction, followed by a presentation and honey tasting. You will have time to explore the shop or grab yourself a cuppa in the relaxed outdoor setting, before reaching our accommodation, which is where we dine tonight at the onsite restaurant.

Accommodation: Hicks Bay Motel

Hicks Bay – Gisborne (August 18th)

A relaxed start to the day before we head down the coast. First stop is in Te Araroa to see the giant Pohutukawa tree (Te Waha o Rerekohu) reputed to be the oldest and largest in New Zealand. Then it is off to view Saint Mary's Church in Tikitiki, one of the finest Maori churches in New Zealand.

As we navigate our way south, we hope to view the majestic Mount Hikurangi, the highest non-volcanic peak in the North Island and the first place to see the sun. For lunch today, we are sitting on the water's edge of the Pacific Ocean, looking over beautiful Tokomaru Bay at the Te Puka Tavern.

After lunch, we continue the stunning scenic drive to Tolaga Bay to see New Zealand's longest wharf. The afternoon see’s us enjoy a classic boat ride in the Poverty Bay Harbour. We board the MV Takitimu which is believed to be the oldest pilot vessel in New Zealand still able to be operated. She is also notable for the amount of original fixtures and fittings that have survived. After, it is just a short drive into Gisborne and to our great accommodation for the next two nights.

Accommodation: Emerald Hotel Gisborne

Gisborne (August 19th)

After breakfast we step off the beaten track as we head out to experience real, rural New Zealand in action as we visit the hill country sheep and beef farm of Waipura Station.

Our hosts will give their personal insights into what life is like on this fourth generation family-run farm. Complete with history of the Station, shearing explanation and demonstration, information about the wool industry and the opportunity to get up close with the animals and equipment. We will enjoy a classic kiwi morning tea in the woolshed while being entertained by a mustering demonstration on horseback.

After this very memorable morning with this great family, we board the coach and head out through the picturesque Ngatapa Valley to the National Arboretum of New Zealand.

Eastwoodhill was founded in 1910 and encompasses 131 hectares of exotic and native trees, shrubs and climber plantings. We have a transported guided Jeep tour which is the best way to discover new and amazing facts about the National Arboretum and the 25,000 plants and trees it contains. Lunch today will be set amongst this magnificent setting and you will have your own time to explore before heading back into town.

You will have the chance to look through town and visit the award winning Tairawhiti Museum if you choose or simply relax for the rest of the afternoon. We meet back for another fabulous group dinner before resting our heads for the night.

Accommodation: Emerald Hotel Gisborne

Rotorua

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