We leave Auckland behind and head north, stopping along the way to ease into the adventure. On the way, we'll stop at the Kauri Museum in Matakohe, where you’ll learn the story of New Zealand’s mighty kauri trees and early pioneers. After a lunch stop in Dargaville, we cool off with a visit to the stunning Kai Iwi Lakes - crystal-clear freshwater surrounded by native forest. Later, we venture into the legendary Waipoua Forest, home to Tāne Mahuta, the largest living kauri tree in New Zealand. Depending on timing, your Waipoua experience takes place either today or tomorrow. We finish the day on the west coast in Omapere, checking into our beachfront accommodation. Tonight, enjoy a relaxed fish & chips dinner (included) as the sun sets over the Tasman Sea.