All the best places a day's drive from Auckland - beautiful oceans, kauri forest, volcanic activity and underground caves...

Day 1: Auckland - Bay of Islands
Travel North over the Harbour Bridge to Paihia. Upon arrival in Paihia visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.  Cruise the bay and through the intriguing Hole in the Rock. Stay 2 nights in Paihia.

Day 2: Cape Reinga Day Tour
Venture North to Cape Reinga via Puketi Kauri Forest, viewing giant Kauri trees, to where the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean meet.  Zoom along Ninety Mile Beach.  Stop for sightseeing and refreshments(own expense).

Day 3: Paihia - Auckland - Rotorua
Return to Auckland and then through the Waikato Valley to Rotorua.  We recommend you attend a fascinating Maori hangi (feast) and concert tonight. Stay 2 nights in Rotorua.

Day 4: At Rotorua
This morning see roaring geysers, boiling mud pools at the thermal area, tame trout at the springs and performing sheep and dogs at the Agrodome.
Tour Bonus - This afternoon enjoy your Hell's Gate mud bath and spa (including facial mud pack) 

Day 5: Rotorua - Waitomo - Auckland 
Travel to Waitomo for a tour of the limestone caves.  Cruise below a galaxy of glowworms.  Continue via Hamilton and the Waikato River to Auckland once more. You arrive late afternoon.