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Northland Golf & Wine Trail (6 Days)

Matakana Vineyard

So many quality golf courses in such close proximity!

Northland is a region that will stimulate every sense. Not only is it the birthplace of the nation, where European settlers planted the first grapes , olives and fruit trees, but Northland is also home to giant Kauri forests, miles of stunning coastline capped off with iconic Cape Reinga and is also the only region in New Zealand where subtropicals thrive. Add to this some of the worlds finest quality golf courses in some of the most spectacular scenery in New Zealand and you have the makings of an extraordinary golf and wine tour.

Day 1: Auckland - City of Sails (D)

Welcome to New Zealand! Your flight arrives into Auckland International Airport where you will be met by your driver and taken on a short orientation tour of Auckland city. After stopping at Mt Eden (for 360 degree views of Auckland city) we continue on to your hotel accommodation by way of Parnell village, the waterfront and Auckland's main shopping street, Queen Street.

Day 2: Whangaparoa and Matakana (B, L, D)

Thirty minutes drive from Auckland is the prestigious Gulf Harbour Country Club. Venue of the 1998 Golf World Cup and 2006 New Zealand Open this international golf course, practice facilities and club facilities are only matched by the challenge of the tees.

Non-golfers may visit Matakana Farmers Market, Morris & James Pottery, Sculpture Trail and lunch platter at Brick Bay Vineyard.  After lunch follow the wine trail visiting other boutique wineries such as Takatu and Omaha Bay Vineyards in Matakana. Dinner is served at Ascension Wine Estate and we stay at Riverside Matakana, a luxury bach style retreat in the heart of Matakana Wine Country.

Day 3: Bay of Islands (B, D)

Two hours north of Matakana lies Pahia, gateway to the Bay of Islands, one of the most popular fishing, sailing and tourist destinations in the country. Overlooking this tremendous panorama of sea and island views is Waitangi Golf Course. These views are complemented by well-groomed greens and fairways surrounded by areas of flowering native trees. As many visiting golfers claim, particularly those from overseas, Waitangi is truly millionaire's country for all to enjoy.

Non golfers can cruise through the sheltered waters of the Bay of Islands on Dolphin Seeker, a purpose built dolphin and whale watching catamaran or Excitor, a speedboat powered by 4 300hp V8 engines. Visit Waitangi National Trust - 'the Birthplace of a Nation' or explore historic Russell.

This afternoon wine tasting is an option at Cattle Hill Winery, Ake Ake Vineyard and Marsden Estate all situated near historic Keri Keri. Tonight we stay in 5 star comfort at Pahia Beach Resort.

Day 4: Kauri Cliffs Resort (B, D)

Kauri Cliffs is a par 72 championship golf course, fifteen holes view the Pacific Ocean, six of which are played alongside cliffs which plunge to the sea. The beautiful inland holes wind through marsh, forest and farmland. Considered a ‘must play’ by many respected golf magazines, Kauri Cliffs is rated in the world’s top 100 by Golf Magazine and will be a highlight of your golf trip.

A four-wheel-drive tour? Sun baking on a wild and deserted beach? A massage in the brand-new spa? A swim in the heated infinity pool? A mountain bike ride? Or a horseback trek through beautiful countryside? such are the choices faced by the non-golfer this morning at Kauri Cliffs.

Day 5: Carrington Resort (B, D)

Carrington Resort is sited so as to provide a variety of vistas to the golfer. The course is located between sweeping ocean views to the north and east, and hill side vineyards of Karikari Estate to the south. The championship standard 18 hole Carrington golf course was inaugurated on 15 December 2003 and designed by American golf course designer Matt Dye.

Karikari Estate Winery and Vineyard boasts some 40 hectares of Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Franc, Malbec, Pinotage, Chardonnay and Viognier. Having earned numerous medals and glowing reviews, Karikari Estate is well on the path to become a major player in the New Zealand wine market. See the winery in action with an informative tour and enjoy the Winery's café mouth-watering fare together with award-winning wines from it's vantage looking across Carrington Resort towards the coast.

Day 6: Carrington Resort - Auckland (B)

Today transfers are made by helicopter to Auckland Airport where our tour is completed.

...or you may like to continue with us on our North Island Golf & Wine Trail which include:

  • Waiheke Island Vineyard Tour
  • Formosa Country Club
  • Polynesian Spa (Top 10 spa's in the World)
  • Wairakei International
  • The Kinlock Club
  • Cape Kidnappers Golf Club
  • Hawkes Bay Wine Trail
  • Wairapa Wine Trail
  • Paraparumu Beach Golf Club