Kiwis & Coconuts, New Zealand & The Cook Islands

Days 1-2 Los Angeles, USA      
The balmy Southern Californian climate provides the perfect opportunity to break your journey. Stroll along the legendary Walk of Fame in Hollywood, explore sophisticated Beverly Hills and browse the boutiques of Rodeo Drive.      
Day 3 Los Angeles to Rarotonga, Cook Islands    
After enjoying the day in Los Angeles head to the airport for an overnight flight to Rarotonga in the Cook Islands.      

Days 4-8 Rarotonga  
Kia Orana, welcome to the Cook Islands! Tiny and remote, mountainous Rarotonga is cloaked in forest and fringed by white sand beaches and coral reefs ideal for snorkelling. Hire a bike and explore easy trails, meet the friendly locals at quaint cafés and discover deserted beaches along the way. In the evening, a Polynesian feast and traditional dancing are not to be missed. Boasting rare beauty and a laid back pace of life, the Cook Islands are pure bliss.      

Day 9 Rarotonga to Auckland, New Zealand    
Time to leave this tropical paradise behind for an overnight flight to Auckland.  

Days 10-11 Auckland      
As New Zealand’s largest and most culturally diverse city, Auckland boasts an unrivalled food and wine scene.  

Day 12 Auckland to Omapere    
Pick up your car and enjoy the scenic drive through the enchanting Waipoua Forest, stopping off to view the mighty Tane Mahuta kauri tree, standing over 50 metres high. As you leave the forest behind, the sweeping sand dunes and stunning ocean appear before you.      

Days 13-14 Omapere to Paihia  
Explore Paihia with its charming cafés overlooking the remarkable Bay of Islands. For a closer look, perhaps join a catamaran cruise, or spend some time in historic Russell, just across the bay from Paihia.      

Days 15-16 Paihia to Coromandel Peninsula      
Set off early for the drive to the Coromandel, where pristine beaches and native forests are waiting to be explored. Discover the rugged volcanic coastline, magnificent sea caves and Cathedral Cove, a magical beach framed by a huge natural rock arch. One afternoon, sit back and relax in the warm bubbling waters of Hot Water Beach where you can dig your own spa pool!    

Day 17 Coromandel Peninsula to Rotorua      
This morning stop off to explore the area’s gold mining heritage, following the dramatic Karangahake Gorge.    

Day 18 Rotorua    
Today discover incredible lakes, stunning scenery, geothermal wonders and thriving Maori culture. See geysers and thermal mud pools and visit the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute.      

Day 19 Rotorua to Auckland    
Enjoy a final morning in Rotorua before heading back to Auckland to drop off your car and catch your onward flight.