A 30 minute flight by light plane over the sparkling waters of the Hauraki Gulf brings you to the majestic Great Barrier Island. After breakfast at a local cafe, take an easy half hour walk on gravelled tracks and boardwalks past giant Nikau palms and rare native flora and fauna over unique wetlands to the Kaitoke natural thermal springs. A drive past native bush and rugged peaks will take you to the secluded natural harbour at Port Fitzroy for a relaxed kiwi style picnic lunch. Then continue on to a sweeping, often deserted stretch of pristine white sand where there is time for a swim or a meander along the beach.

Visit the only working cattle and sheep farm on the island where relics of the past remain. Here the world's largest population of Brown Teal can be found, a friendly little duck on the verge of extinction. The day is rounded off with a climb to the top of Windy Canyon, a spectacular short walk, where the path winds around rocky outcrops and past sheer cliffs coated with rata vines and takes in breathtaking views of the island and beyond. The return flight takes you back to Auckland Airport.

 

Ask your consultant about extending yout time on Great Barrier Island with a stay at Earthsong Lodge.

Tour runs daily from Auckland Domestic Airport at 7.15am. Includes flights, breakfast and picnic lunch. Transfers to/from the airport can be arranged separately for an additional cost.