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How to See the North Island in Five Days

In less than a week you can have a sampling of New Zealand's North Island attractions by traveling through some of the island's most traveled areas. Adjust the suggested tour to fit the time you have,

Difficulty Level: Average      Time Required: Five days


Here's How:
  1. Arrive in Auckland and explore the city's attractions.
  2. The following day, leave Auckland on the Northern Motorway and proceed to the Bay of Islands.
  3. Visit Paihia, centre of the Bay of Islands, and the Waitangi historical site.
  4. From the Bay of Islands, drive south on the third day to Rotorua, bypassing the Auckland city centre and leaving the city on the Southern Motorway.
  5. At Rotorua, go to a hangi, attend a performance of Maori singing and dancing, view the thermal geysers.
  6. Check with your hotel and enjoy the nightlife or soak in the thermal springs.
  7. On the fourth day, drive south to Taupo. Tour the Prawn Park if desired.
  8. Proceed west to Waitomo and visit the Waitomo Caves.
  9. Stay the night at Waitomo or head back to Auckland.
  10. Enjoy the sights between Waitomo and Auckland.
  11. Have free time in Auckland to do what you will.
  12. Complete five days in the North Island before flying out of Auckland.
Tips:
  1. Have a map and chart out your route.
  2. Rent a car so you can visit particular places at will.
  3. Do not forget to experience Maori life and culture, particularly at Rotorua.

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