TRAVEL AND FREE TIME

Optional trip to Coromandel

This optional trip departs at 8 o’clock and we head straight for the beach town of Whangamata, with cafes for brunch(~$15). You then travel to Cathedral Cove, one of the must-see destinations on the Coromandel Peninsula - an hour and a half easy return walk through forest to the cove.

You arrive in Whitianga late afternoon, and after settling into the accommodation, there are many restaurants and pubs to choose from for dinner (~$20).

Options for the next day, if the weather is good, are sea kayaking (free), mountain biking ($10), fishing ($85) high ropes ($40) and horse treking ($50), or create your own bone carving ($40). You will also have the option of taking a boat trip to see some of the region’s beautiful coves (~$50).  

 We leave in the late afternoon to travel back to the accommodation, stopping en route for dinner (~$10).

 NZ$95 includes transport and accommodation only. We estimate you will need around $100-200 for meals and optional activities.

Optional trip to Mount Maunganui

This optional trip takes you to the iconic beach township locally known as The Mount.

 En route, we stop at an ancient rainforest where a guided walk will take you to see huge trees and inform you about the special qualities of this forest. This visit puts a lot of your conservation work into perspective, for this reason this trip is highly recommended. We then take you straight to the volcanic Mount, where we tell you about local legends and show you historic cultural sites.

 You can choose to walk up the Mount for a panoramic view of the district (approx 1 hour return) or take a scenic stroll around the base of the Mount (approx 1 hour). Or have a coffee at one of the many cafes at the base of the Mount.  Close by are hot salt water pools where you can have a relaxing soak, or get a massage. There is internet access and banks in the township, and other shops and restaurants.

 Nearby optional activities include indoor rock climbing or surfing and kite boarding. You have the afternoon and early evening free to explore the Mount township.

 $45 includes transport and guided walks. Add an additional $20-70 for meals and optional activities.