Excursion Hokianga and kauri forest tour at Waitangi (Bay Of Islands)

View the highlights of beautiful Northland and the famous Waipoua Forest.

Te Waimate Mission House

Enjoy the views coastal waters during your 30 minute coach ride, as the tour makes it way to Waipoua Forest. First stop for morning tea at Te Waimate Mission House, the only survivor of the three mission houses built at New Zealand's first inland mission station in 1832.

Waipoua Forest

Continue through Ohaewai and the Ngawha geothermal area to Kaikohe, past farming country to Opononi on the shores of the sand dune-lined Hokianga Harbour, one of the earliest areas to be settled by Europeans. At Waipoua Forest, take a guided walk to Tane Mahuta, the country's largest kauri tree, still growing after approx. 1,200 years. Kauri timber became New Zealand's very first export and was highly sought after for ships' masts and as a building material, but this led to the rapid depletion of the once-vast forests and only a few stands remain.

Omapere, Lunch and Concert

The tour concludes with a buffet lunch and charming concert by local school children at a hotel in Omapere before the 1.5 hour ride back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Bay of Islands, Boat Cruise, Opua, Omata Estate Vineyard, Kororareka Oyster Farm, Okiato, Lunch, Russell, Old Homesteads, Churches, Wooden Cottages, Free Time

Note

Please note: This tour involves approximately 1km of walking, with a 30+ steps to negotiate. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Guests a wheelchair can particpate, however, must be able to takes steps and stairs. There is 250m of incline and uneven surfaces. Some offroad trails are taken. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking or boat shoes, and bring sun protection and a weatherproof coat or jacket from the ship. Guests must be at least 18 years old to participate in tastings of alcoholic beverages. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.