Northland FAQ
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Answers for our Bay of Islands, Hokianga and Tutukaka Coast explorer tours.
Are your Northland experiences group tours, private tours, or both?
Are your Northland experiences group tours, private tours, or both?
Our Northland experiences are primarily private tours, allowing you to explore the region's spectacular landscapes, rich history and culture with your own expert local guide.
We also create bespoke itineraries for larger private, corporate and incentive groups, with experiences tailored to your group's interests, preferences and needs.
We also create bespoke itineraries for larger private, corporate and incentive groups, with experiences tailored to your group's interests, preferences and needs.
Do you offer private tours in Northland?
Do you offer private tours in Northland?
Yes! Our private Northland tours offer a wonderful opportunity to explore the spectacular Bay of Islands, Hokianga Harbour and Tutukaka Coast.
Discover ancient kauri forests, secluded beaches, rich Māori culture and heritage, local art and regional food and wine, guided by our expert local guides who share their passion and knowledge of this beautiful region.
With personalised itineraries tailored to your interests and pace, you'll discover hidden gems and connect more deeply with Northland's landscapes, people and stories.
Discover ancient kauri forests, secluded beaches, rich Māori culture and heritage, local art and regional food and wine, guided by our expert local guides who share their passion and knowledge of this beautiful region.
With personalised itineraries tailored to your interests and pace, you'll discover hidden gems and connect more deeply with Northland's landscapes, people and stories.
Who are your Northland guides?
Who are your Northland guides?
Our Northland experiences are led by knowledgeable, passionate guides who bring the region's spectacular landscapes, rich Māori heritage and fascinating history to life.
From the Bay of Islands to the Hokianga and Tutukaka Coast, our expert guides share their local insights, stories and love of nature, helping you discover the hidden gems and special places that make Northland so memorable.
Meet the people behind our experiences on our Meet Our Guides page.
From the Bay of Islands to the Hokianga and Tutukaka Coast, our expert guides share their local insights, stories and love of nature, helping you discover the hidden gems and special places that make Northland so memorable.
Meet the people behind our experiences on our Meet Our Guides page.
Do you offer multi-day tours and experiences in Northland?
Do you offer multi-day tours and experiences in Northland?
Absolutely! Our two-day Matakana and Northland Explorer brings together spectacular coastlines, ancient forests, Māori culture and heritage, art, food and wine.
Led by our expert local guides, this private experience offers a wonderful opportunity to discover more of the region at a relaxed pace.
We can also create bespoke multi-day itineraries combining our Bay of Islands, Hokianga and Tutukaka Coast experiences, tailored to your interests and preferences.
Led by our expert local guides, this private experience offers a wonderful opportunity to discover more of the region at a relaxed pace.
We can also create bespoke multi-day itineraries combining our Bay of Islands, Hokianga and Tutukaka Coast experiences, tailored to your interests and preferences.
What types of walking and hiking tours do you offer in Northland?
What types of walking and hiking tours do you offer in Northland?
Our Northland experiences combine spectacular guided walks with personalised touring, allowing you to discover ancient kauri forests, secluded beaches and breathtaking coastal landscapes.
Walking is a highlight of our Bay of Islands Explorer, Hokianga Explorer and Tutukaka Coast Explorer. For something truly special, our Tutukaka Heli Hike offers an exclusive guided adventure into remote coastal landscapes.
Our expert local guides can tailor walking activities to your interests and abilities, or incorporate them into a bespoke multi-day Northland journey.
Walking is a highlight of our Bay of Islands Explorer, Hokianga Explorer and Tutukaka Coast Explorer. For something truly special, our Tutukaka Heli Hike offers an exclusive guided adventure into remote coastal landscapes.
Our expert local guides can tailor walking activities to your interests and abilities, or incorporate them into a bespoke multi-day Northland journey.
Who are your tours for?
Who are your tours for?
Our experiences are designed for curious travellers who value authentic, meaningful connections with nature, culture and place. We welcome couples, families, small groups, nature lovers, soft adventure seekers and those with a passion for food, wine, art and culture.
From private luxury experiences and special celebrations to corporate, incentive and conference groups, we offer both shared and customised tours to suit a range of interests, ages and abilities.
From private luxury experiences and special celebrations to corporate, incentive and conference groups, we offer both shared and customised tours to suit a range of interests, ages and abilities.
Do you offer tours for families in Northland?
Do you offer tours for families in Northland?
Yes! Northland is a wonderful destination for families, with spectacular coastlines, ancient forests, fascinating history and plenty of opportunities for discovery.
Our Bay of Islands Explorer, Hokianga Explorer and Tutukaka Coast Explorer offer opportunities to explore nature, wildlife, Māori culture and heritage together.
Led by our expert local guides, our private tours can be tailored to suit your family's interests, ages and pace, making every journey personal and memorable.
Our Bay of Islands Explorer, Hokianga Explorer and Tutukaka Coast Explorer offer opportunities to explore nature, wildlife, Māori culture and heritage together.
Led by our expert local guides, our private tours can be tailored to suit your family's interests, ages and pace, making every journey personal and memorable.
What is the difference between a private tour and a normal tour?
What is the difference between a private tour and a normal tour?
Our shared tours are small-group experiences where you join other like-minded travellers on a carefully curated itinerary, led by one of our expert local guides.
Private tours offer a more personalised experience, with a dedicated guide and the flexibility to tailor the itinerary to your interests, preferences and pace. Whether you're looking for a special occasion or simply a more exclusive experience, our private tours allow you to explore your chosen destination your way.
Private tours offer a more personalised experience, with a dedicated guide and the flexibility to tailor the itinerary to your interests, preferences and pace. Whether you're looking for a special occasion or simply a more exclusive experience, our private tours allow you to explore your chosen destination your way.
What sort of transport do you offer in Northland?
What sort of transport do you offer in Northland?
Discover Northland's spectacular landscapes in comfort and style with our fleet of luxury Mercedes vehicles, including electric and low-emission options, reflecting our commitment to more sustainable travel.
Our expert local driver-guides make the journey part of the experience, sharing fascinating stories and local insights as you explore the region's hidden gems.
We offer convenient accommodation pick-ups, private touring and scenic transfers between Auckland and the Bay of Islands, allowing you to discover special places along the way.
For something truly memorable, we also offer an exclusive Tutukaka Heli Hike, combining helicopter travel with guided coastal exploration.
Our expert local driver-guides make the journey part of the experience, sharing fascinating stories and local insights as you explore the region's hidden gems.
We offer convenient accommodation pick-ups, private touring and scenic transfers between Auckland and the Bay of Islands, allowing you to discover special places along the way.
For something truly memorable, we also offer an exclusive Tutukaka Heli Hike, combining helicopter travel with guided coastal exploration.
What is the best way to book your tours?
What is the best way to book your tours?
The easiest way to book is through our website at www.terraandtide.co.nz. Simply explore our range of experiences, select your preferred tour and click ‘Book Now’ on the tour page to make your booking through our secure online booking system.
For private, customised experiences or group bookings, our friendly team is happy to assist. Contact us at [email protected] or +64 21 669 722, and we’ll help create an unforgettable experience tailored to your needs.
For private, customised experiences or group bookings, our friendly team is happy to assist. Contact us at [email protected] or +64 21 669 722, and we’ll help create an unforgettable experience tailored to your needs.
Do you provide food on your Northland tours?
Do you provide food on your Northland tours?
Yes! Our Northland tours celebrate the region's fresh local produce, charming cafés and beautiful dining locations, making food an enjoyable part of your journey.
Lunch is included on our Bay of Islands Explorer, Hokianga Explorer, Tutukaka Coast Explorer and Tutukaka Heli Hike.
Our two-day Matakana and Northland Explorer includes lunch on both days, while our scenic transfers between Auckland and the Bay of Islands include a café or restaurant lunch.
From relaxed café dining to delicious picnics surrounded by nature, we thoughtfully incorporate local flavours into our experiences. Please let us know about any dietary requirements when booking.
Lunch is included on our Bay of Islands Explorer, Hokianga Explorer, Tutukaka Coast Explorer and Tutukaka Heli Hike.
Our two-day Matakana and Northland Explorer includes lunch on both days, while our scenic transfers between Auckland and the Bay of Islands include a café or restaurant lunch.
From relaxed café dining to delicious picnics surrounded by nature, we thoughtfully incorporate local flavours into our experiences. Please let us know about any dietary requirements when booking.
What are your terms and conditions for bookings?
What are your terms and conditions for bookings?
Our cancellation policy applies to all tours, including private groups:
Cancellation fees apply to individuals and groups, and changes in group numbers may require a revised quote.
For further information, please refer to our full booking terms and conditions or contact our friendly team at [email protected].
- 8–30 days before your tour: A 10% cancellation fee applies.
- 48 hours–7 days before your tour: A 50% cancellation fee applies, unless you rebook (subject to availability).
- Within 48 hours or no-shows: No refund is available, although rebooking may be offered depending on circumstances and availability.
Cancellation fees apply to individuals and groups, and changes in group numbers may require a revised quote.
For further information, please refer to our full booking terms and conditions or contact our friendly team at [email protected].
Can tour itineraries be customised?
Can tour itineraries be customised?
Absolutely! We specialise in creating personalised experiences tailored to your interests, preferences and pace. Whether you'd like to explore hidden gems, discover local art and culture, enjoy exceptional food and wine, or immerse yourself in nature, our knowledgeable expert guides can help bring your ideal itinerary to life.
We also create bespoke experiences for families, private groups, special celebrations and corporate events. Simply get in touch with our friendly team to discuss your ideas.
We also create bespoke experiences for families, private groups, special celebrations and corporate events. Simply get in touch with our friendly team to discuss your ideas.
When do you offer your tours?
When do you offer your tours?
We offer tours and experiences year-round, with departures available daily except on 25, 26 and 31 December and 1 January.
Our multi-day tours are unavailable from 20 December to 31 January. Shared tours are subject to minimum numbers, while private tours offer greater flexibility with departure times.
Visit our individual tour pages to check availability or contact our friendly team to plan your experience.
Our multi-day tours are unavailable from 20 December to 31 January. Shared tours are subject to minimum numbers, while private tours offer greater flexibility with departure times.
Visit our individual tour pages to check availability or contact our friendly team to plan your experience.
Do you offer corporate experiences?
Do you offer corporate experiences?
Absolutely! We specialise in creating premium, bespoke experiences for corporate groups, conferences, incentive programmes, team building and special events across Auckland, Waiheke Island, the Hauraki Gulf, Matakana and Northland.
From exclusive sailing adventures, guided nature walks and immersive Māori cultural experiences to exceptional food and wine, art and conservation activities, we create memorable experiences that bring people together.
Our expert guides, strong regional partnerships and luxury transport ensure a seamless, personalised experience for groups of up to 100 guests.
Discover more in our Corporate, Conference and Incentive Experiences brochure or contact our friendly team to discuss your requirements.
From exclusive sailing adventures, guided nature walks and immersive Māori cultural experiences to exceptional food and wine, art and conservation activities, we create memorable experiences that bring people together.
Our expert guides, strong regional partnerships and luxury transport ensure a seamless, personalised experience for groups of up to 100 guests.
Discover more in our Corporate, Conference and Incentive Experiences brochure or contact our friendly team to discuss your requirements.
Where do your Northland tours/experiences go?
Where do your Northland tours/experiences go?
Our Northland experiences explore the spectacular Bay of Islands, culturally rich Hokianga Harbour and beautiful Tutukaka Coast.
Discover ancient kauri forests, secluded beaches, historic settlements, Māori heritage, local art and regional food and wine. Highlights may include the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Waipoua Forest, Manea Footprints of Kupe and Northland's stunning coastal landscapes.
Our expert local guides share their knowledge and passion for the region, creating immersive, personalised experiences that connect you with its people, culture and natural beauty.
Discover ancient kauri forests, secluded beaches, historic settlements, Māori heritage, local art and regional food and wine. Highlights may include the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Waipoua Forest, Manea Footprints of Kupe and Northland's stunning coastal landscapes.
Our expert local guides share their knowledge and passion for the region, creating immersive, personalised experiences that connect you with its people, culture and natural beauty.
What types of tours and experiences do you offer in Northland?
What types of tours and experiences do you offer in Northland?
Our Northland experiences showcase the region's spectacular coastlines, ancient forests, rich Māori culture and heritage, art, food and wine.
Explore our Bay of Islands Explorer, Hokianga Explorer and Tutukaka Coast Explorer, combining private guided touring, scenic coastal walks, cultural and historical discoveries and local culinary experiences.
For something extra special, we offer exclusive Tutukaka heli-hiking adventures, as well as multi-day Northland and Matakana touring and personalised scenic transfers between Auckland and the Bay of Islands.
Our expert local guides bring Northland's landscapes, people and stories to life, creating memorable experiences tailored to your interests and pace.
Explore our Bay of Islands Explorer, Hokianga Explorer and Tutukaka Coast Explorer, combining private guided touring, scenic coastal walks, cultural and historical discoveries and local culinary experiences.
For something extra special, we offer exclusive Tutukaka heli-hiking adventures, as well as multi-day Northland and Matakana touring and personalised scenic transfers between Auckland and the Bay of Islands.
Our expert local guides bring Northland's landscapes, people and stories to life, creating memorable experiences tailored to your interests and pace.
Where do your Northland tours and experiences begin?
Where do your Northland tours and experiences begin?
Our Northland tours generally begin with a pick-up from your accommodation in the Bay of Islands, including Paihia or Russell, where you'll meet your expert local guide.
Depending on your chosen experience, we can also arrange pick-ups from Hokianga and other locations by prior arrangement. Additional charges may apply for pick-ups outside our standard areas.
We also offer personalised scenic transfers between Auckland and the Bay of Islands, allowing you to explore the region's hidden gems along the way.
Depending on your chosen experience, we can also arrange pick-ups from Hokianga and other locations by prior arrangement. Additional charges may apply for pick-ups outside our standard areas.
We also offer personalised scenic transfers between Auckland and the Bay of Islands, allowing you to explore the region's hidden gems along the way.
How many guests are on your tours?
How many guests are on your tours?
Group sizes vary depending on the tour or experience. Our shared walking and sailing adventures are kept small and intimate, while most private tours cater for couples, families and small groups, typically from 2–12 guests.
We also specialise in customised experiences for larger groups, including corporate events, conferences and incentive programmes, accommodating up to 100 guests.
Please check the individual tour pages for specific group sizes, or contact our friendly team to discuss your requirements.
We also specialise in customised experiences for larger groups, including corporate events, conferences and incentive programmes, accommodating up to 100 guests.
Please check the individual tour pages for specific group sizes, or contact our friendly team to discuss your requirements.
Where do Northland tours start?
Where do Northland tours start?
Tours start at 9:00am with pickup from your accommodation in Paihia or Russell (Tutukaka Explorer also from Tutukaka or Whangārei) and finish at approximately 5:00pm at the same place.
Is there a surcharge for pickups outside these areas?
Is there a surcharge for pickups outside these areas?
Yes. Return surcharges apply for lodges such as Kauri Cliffs, Eagles Nest and The Landing ($120 – $150 per vehicle), and one-way transfers from Kerikeri Airport are available ($90 – $170).
Can you transfer us between Auckland and the Bay of Islands?
Can you transfer us between Auckland and the Bay of Islands?
Yes. Our Private Scenic Transfer between Auckland and the Bay of Islands includes an expert guide/driver, entry fees and a café or restaurant lunch, with stops on the Matakana Coast and Northland highlights.
What should I bring?
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a daypack, sunglasses, hat and sunscreen, water and a raincoat (weather dependent). For the Tutukaka Heli Hike, bring swimwear and a towel.
Are Northland tours suitable for children?
Are Northland tours suitable for children?
Yes, our Northland explorer tours suit all fitness levels and all ages. Children up to 14 are 75% of the adult rate; the Heli Hike is for ages 8+.
Please contact us if you have any queries at all. We are happy to help.
Still have a question?
We’re happy to help
+64 21 669 722
[email protected]
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