Day 1 Rotorua to Te Kaha

We depart from Rotorua at 9am, to start our journey into the remote East Cape region. We will head east towards the lush Bay of Plenty, navigating our way through the beautiful lakes in the Rotorua region. Our destination is a remote coastal settlement of Te Kaha where we’ll be overnighting in a local homestay set overlooking the sea. Feel truly welcomed by our local hosts with a warm traditional Maori greeting. You will have a free afternoon to ease into the coastal setting with opportunities to go fishing, snorkelling or simply unwind in a seaside spa pool. We recommend signing up for the freshest seafood meal you’ll ever eat prepared by our hosts.

Accommodation: Seaside homestay lodge.

Stop 2 Te Kaha to Tatapouri (Gisborne)

We set out early to make our way around the eastern point of the Cape, exploring the pristine beaches and settlements along the way. In Te Araroa we’ll collect supplies for a picnic lunch, before setting off on a walk up to the East Cape Light House, where the views are well worth the climb.   We’ll later stop by Tolaga Bay Wharf, the longest pier in New Zealand where you can enjoy a dip before arriving at our overnight accommodation on the outskirts of Gisborne. Nestled on a private beach you can enjoy sundowners on a deck or build a beach bonfire and feel the outside world drift away.

Accommodation: Tranquil hostel with an unbeatable sea views.

Departure day Tatapouri (Gisborne) to Rotorua

Today you’ll have a free morning in Tatapouri to enjoy some activities in the area. Hone your surfing skills or join a local guide for a ‘must do’ experience feeding wild stingrays in the bay (tide permitting). In the afternoon we’ll cruise back to Rotorua driving through the spectacular Waioeka Gorge Scenic Reserve, stopping to enjoy some of the sights along the way and then dropping people off in Whakatane for the spectacular White Island Volcanic Tour *. Before arriving back in Rotorua, we will make one last stop for a stretch and a refreshing dip in the crystal clear waters of Lake Rotorua.

Accommodation: Central city hostel.

Recommend 7 days to explore this pass. Pass departs Tuesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays

Price from €190 p.p

Price Includes:

Flexible Travel Pass.

Stray is NOT an A to B bus service! We make stops along the way to show you amazing things, like a beautiful waterfall, short scenic walk, local food tasting or breathtaking views!

Your pass is valid for up to 12 months from your first day of travel, so hop on and off as many times as you like.

Driver Guide to provide invaluable knowledge, support and local insight and to assist with booking accommodation and activities at every destination (pay-as-you-go) - your first night's accommodation at each stop is always guaranteed.

Comfortable wifi-enabled transport on Stray's private buses.

Price excludes:

Accommodation

Flights

Travel insurance

Airport transfers