Description:
Whangarei is a land that looks more like an oasis than a city in northern New Zealand, with volcanic domes millions of year’s old, stunning waterfalls, and an odd culture.
Learn the story from a local guide of how its artists, manufacturers, producers, and descendants of traditional Bay of Islands landowners signed the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840, and how this event shaped the history of New Zealand.
Looking for adventure in the Bay of Islands? Take a short side trip through Russell that will take you to key sites that have helped shape New Zealand’s early history.
Included:
Not included:
We hope you slept well, since today is full of adventures. Take the road in the morning for a picturesque journey to the Bay of Islands. This region of the nation merits its name, as there are around 140 subtropical islets off the shore. It is unquestionably lovely, but it also has a unique historical significance: it was here that Captain William Hobson and Mori chiefs signed the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840. Your guide, most likely a descendant of one of the original signatories, will explain the significance of the place and point out the world’s biggest ceremonial war boat and carved meeting house. You wanted an introduction to New Zealand heritage from day one, and you got it.
If there’s a travel destination that inspires wanderlust, the Bay of Islands is it. Today, trip the light fantastic and head off in whatever direction you please. Perhaps out on to the water to ride the waves aboard a historic tall ship, glass of New Zealand wine in hand. Or maybe on a mini-tour around the romantic town of Russell, the country’s first permanent European settlement and seaport. Fun fact: the towns’ streets retain their original names and layout from 1843. Just ask your Travel Director for touring tips and places to wine and dine come dusk. This part of the country was made for blazing sunsets.
If you have never heard of Whangarei, you are probably not alone. But now, New Zealand’s most northern city is well and firmly on your radar. Whangarei is the country in a tempting picture, a fusion of nature and forward-thinking culture. Explore at your leisure before relaxing back into your seat for the unforgettable journey back to Auckland.
