Great Barrier and Untamed Island

General information

Destination	Category
Auckland, New Zealand	Sightseeing Tours

Program details

Spend a day on the wild side in this trip to secluded Great Barrier Island. Enjoy the untamed natural beauty of this offshore island, explore the network of tracks and boardwalks and admire the rare native flora and fauna. A knowledgeable local guide will provide you with plenty of fascinating details about the island’s natural history making this an ideal day out for all nature lovers.

After being picked up from your hotel we’ll board a light aircraft for a short flight over the sparkling waters of the Hauraki Gulf, as we head for magnificent Great Barrier Island, situated 100km to the north east of Central Auckland. On landing enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café before heading for the Kaitoke natural thermal springs. This non-strenuous half-hour walk on gravelled tracks and boardwalks will take you through unique wetlands with plenty of time to admire the giant Nikau palms and rare native flora and fauna.

Then we’ll drive through native bush and rugged peaks towards the secluded natural harbour at Port Fitzroy where we have a relaxed al fresco lunch Kiwi-style. From here it’s just a short drive down to a sweeping, stretch of pristine white sand. Enjoy a swim in the bracing waters of the Pacific Ocean or take a stroll along the beach to visit the graves of those drowned in the sinking of the SS Wairatapa, one of New Zealand’s worst maritime disasters.

This memorable day will come to an end with a spectacular climb to the top of Windy Canyon. The path winds around rocky outcrops and past sheer cliffs coated with rata vines and takes in breath-taking views of the island and beyond. The flight back returns you to Auckland Airport at 5.30pm.

Meeting/ Pick up point: Air New Zealand Domestic Terminal, Auckland International Airport.
Duration: 10 hours until 31st March 2014. 12 hours from 1st April 2014 till 31st March 2015.
Start/opening time: At 7.15am until 31st March 2014. At 6.45am from 1st April 2014 till 31st March 2015.
End/closing time: At 5.30pm till 31st March 2014. At 6.15pm from 1st April 2014 till 31st March 2015.