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Greenz Indulgence – New Zealand Self-drive Eco-Tour

Greenz Travel is thrilled to offer this very low carbon footprint eco-tour of the North

Island, the most sustainable way to visit New Zealand. Get behind the wheel of your

Tesla Model S electric car and discover the must-see as you cruise through Northland,

the Central Plateau, the Tongariro National Park and the Coromandel Peninsula. Be at

peace as the route is designed to facilitate the car charging.

Don’t compromise on luxury as we have selected fabulous accommodation showcasing

a high level of sustainability.

Duration: 19 days – 18 nights

Itinerary: Auckland to Auckland

Tour type: Self-drive – Electric Car Tesla Model S

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Highlights:

Travel the North Island in comfort and Style with a Tesla Model S

Stay in the utmost sustainable lodges the North Island has to offer

Sail the Bay of Islands on a private yacht

Guided tour of Hobbiton village

Visit the Waitomo Caves

Walk the Tongariro Crossing at sunrise

Spend 2 nights glamping in a luxury lodge

Ride the Hauraki Trail

Inclusions: Accommodation in a mix of small lodges, apartment and Glamping

Meals as per itinerary

Tour inclusions as per itinerary (private and small group)

Airport transfers on arrival and departure in Auckland with a Tesla model X

Tesla Model S rental for the entire duration with full insurance

New Zealand Goods and Services Tax (GST)

E-documentation from Greenz Travel

24/7 assistance in the country

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Distance: 52km/45 minutes

Kia Ora and Welcome to Aotearoa, New Zealand!

On arrival at Auckland airport collect your fully electric, state of the art Tesla Model

S. Model S is designed from the ground up to be the safest, most exhilarating sedan on

the road. With unparalleled performance delivered through Tesla's unique, all-electric

powertrain, Model S accelerates from 0 to 100 kph in as little as 2.6 seconds. Model S

comes with Autopilot capabilities designed to make your highway driving not only safer,

but stress free.

Get behind the wheel and drive safely to the West Coast of Auckland, in the Waitakere

Regional Park, a short 45 minutes’ drive from the airport.

Accommodation: Two One Six luxury Accommodation – 2 nights

Includes Breakfast provisions

At Two One Six luxury accommodation, the suites have green roofs, passive heating and

recycled glass insulation. The property uses an on-site sewerage system which turns sewerage

into clean water to irrigate native planting and non-edible garden. Much of the landscaping

is constructed from recycled railway sleepers and extensive native planting is ongoing. The

water supply is collected rainwater and is Ultra Violet filtered. The property composts organic

waste, has working worms, Bokashi bins, and recycles glass, packaging, plastics and

newspaper. Cleaning products used are eco-friendly.

Two One Six is a Qualmark Gold property and offers a Tesla charger onsite.

Day 1 – Arrival – Auckland - Muriwai

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Today is at leisure.

The West Coast of Auckland is bold and wild. Lush rainforests cover the hills and

dramatic cliffs plunge into the Tasman Sea. The coast is lined with black sand beach and

big surf and has an invigorating effect. During your time here, walk one of the coastal

cliff walks, marvel at one of the world’s largest Gannet colony or let the iron rich black

sand beach heel your jetlag.

Distance: 255km/3 hours and 45 minutes

The Hokianga is rich in both Maori and European history and culture and is viewed by

many as the first chapter of the New Zealand story. Kupe and the first Maori explorers

arrived here after voyaging across the Pacific. In fact, the full name of the harbour is

‘Hokianga Kupe A Nui’, which means ‘The great leaving place of Kupe.’

Some of the earliest settled towns in New Zealand such as Rawene and Kohukohu are

found here on the Hokianga. In February 1840 more Maori chiefs signed the Treaty of

Waitangi at Mangungu on the upper reaches of the harbour than signed at Waitangi

itself.

Day 2 - Muriwai

Day 3 – Muriwai – Opononi

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You will need to charge your Tesla after today’s drive – There is a fast charging station

located a 4 minutes’ drive down the road from your accommodation, at the local Four

Square supermarket.

Accommodation: Kokohuia Lodge – 2 nights

Includes full breakfast

Kokohuia Lodge offers you a luxury escape, while still maintaining the highest standards of

sustainable living. The lodge was entirely built from locally sourced timber from sustainably

managed forests. All wood used internally, including framing, is untreated.

The lodge is entirely offgrid. It uses passive solar energy, rainwater for both drinking and

washing and they have their own on-site vermiculture eco-septic system that treats all black

and grey water.

Footprints Waipoua - Daytime Experience (small group)

Join a friendly local Maori guide for your journey into the rich and ancient ecosystem of

Wapioua Forest and you will learn about the indigenous use of plants and be amazed at

the life cycle of a kauri giant… Your tour will start with a karakia (prayer) seeking

permission from Tāne Mahuta (the Māori God of the Forest) to enter his domain and to

ensure that a safe and enjoyable experience. Under the branches of this 2000-year-old

living treasure our guides will share the Māori creation story - the separation of Sky

Father (Ranginui) and Mother Earth (Papatūānuku).

Day 4 – Opononi

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Duration: 3.5 hours

No charging required today – you will be collected and drop off from Opononi for your

tour.

Distance: 105km/2 hours

Today go cross country on this narrow piece of land and leave the wild West coast for

the rolling white sand beach of the East.

The Bay of Islands, on the east coast of Northland, is an idyllic destination with a

subtropical climate, thick rainforests, white sand beaches and over 150 islands. The Bay

is also the birthplace of the nation as New Zealand’s founding document, The Treaty of

Waitangi, was signed in the township of Waitangi in 1840.

No charging required today.

Accommodation: Donkey Bay Inn – 2 nights

Includes full breakfast

The lodge is nestled in the hill, wonderfully integrated in the natural landscape and barely

visible to the naked eye. Donkey Inn is sustainably cooled under a huge 600sqm living roof

(believed to be the biggest in the southern hemisphere!) and is fully off-grid and energy

efficient producing its own electricity via solar panels.

Day 5 – Opononi - Bay of Islands

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Sailing – Ataahua (private)

The Bay of Islands is not only one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking coastal regions,

but above all it is also ranked as one of the best sailing environments in the world!

The many islands in the bay offer a multitude of sheltered anchoring spots.

The crystal clear water and white sandy beaches are perfect to enjoy a gourmet lunch, a

quick swim or perhaps a snorkel. Listening to stories of the early pioneers, mariners

and settlers will complete your Bay of Islands sailing experience. So, if you are looking to

enjoy an exclusive and personalised Bay of Islands hosted sailing cruise, coupled with

awesome New Zealand scenery, then an Ataahua sailing experience is a must do.

No charging required today.

Day 6 – Bay of Islands

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Distance: 155km/2hours and 40 minutes

Today is a leisurely drive to Mangawhai heads. Located 90min North of Auckland,

charming Mangawhai Heads is nestled between the Pacific coast and rolling farmland.

The town has a beautiful surf beach on one side and a safe harbour beaches on the

other.

A relaxing overnight stop en route to the Central North Island.

You will need to charge your Tesla after today’s drive – Te Arai lodge has on-site Tesla

charger.

Accommodation: Te Arai Lodge – 2 nights

Includes full breakfast and dinner

This boutique luxury lodge is like no other and was born from the passion and vision of a

New Zealand family and their commitment to sustainable living. The lodge is strongly driven

by a garden-to-table philosophy and has a prolific garden based on permaculture principle.

Day 7 – Bay of Islands - Mangawhai

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Today is at leisure.

We recommend the Mangawhai Cliffs walkway, often described as one of the best

coastal walks in New Zealand! The 5km walk offers breathtaking coastal views that

extend from Bream Head in the north down to the Tāwharanui Peninsula in the south.

Distance: 245km / 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Leave the shore of the Pacific Ocean for the farmland of the Waikato country.

En-route to tonight’s destination, make a stop to visit Hobitton, the world’s only Movie

set still intact and located on the most picturesque farm backdrop.

Hobbitton guided tour (small group)

Experience the real Middle-earth™ at the Hobbiton™ Movie Set, where, in the heart of

the Waikato region, you can step into the lush pastures of the Shire™, as seen in The

Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Fall in love with the Alexander family sheep

farm, just as acclaimed director Sir Peter Jackson did, as you journey through the

unequivocal beauty of the land, with the mighty Kaimai Ranges towering in the distance.

Your guide will then escort you around the set, showing the intricate detailing, pointing

out the most famous locations and explaining how the movie magic was made. You will

be fully guided around the 12 acre set; past Hobbit Holes™, the Mill and into the world-

famous Green Dragon™ Inn, where you will be presented with a complimentary,

exclusive Hobbit™ Southfarthing™ beverage to conclude your own Middle-earth™

adventure.

Day 8 – Mangawhai

Day 9 – Mangawhai - Cambridge

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You will need to charge your Tesla after today’s drive – Hidden Lake Hotel has on-site

EV charger.

Accommodation: Hidden Lake Hotel – 2 nights

Includes Breakfast

Hidden Lake is a luxe new Hotel committed to sustainability. Energy efficiency has been

approached with a long-term mindset. To minimise the footprint of the hotel and its guests,

sustainable practices include electronic check-in, organic gardens, EV charging station,

recycling and composting as well as a commitment to no paper or plastic use.

The hotel supports sustainable local business and regular environmental audits are

conducted to ensure the hotel is meeting its environmental strategies and targets.

Distance: 65km / 55 minutes.

Today drive south to the famous Waitomo caves.

Off the Beaten Track eco tour from Glowing Adventures (small group)

This is an off the beaten track small groups experience with a maximum of 8 people, so

you can enjoy an up close and personal experience at your own pace.

Day 10 – Cambridge – Waitomo - Cambridge

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Your knowledgeable guides will escort you through beautiful native New Zealand forest

and into untouched caves including a mesmerising glow worm displays. You’ll see the

caves just as nature intended. There are no handrails, electric lights, concrete paths, or

other modifications, and the tour involves climbing over boulders, up hills and wading

through streams. A moderate level of fitness is required.

We recommend an overnight charge.

Distance: 215km / 2 hours and 45 minutes

Today continue your drive south to the central Plateau.

Travel to Tongariro National Park. This is New Zealand's first national park and has

three active volcanoes. The three peaks were gifted by a local chief to the people of New

Zealand in 1887. Today Tongariro National Park also has international recognition with

natural and cultural World Heritage Status. Lava rocks, active craters, “tapu” (sacred) hot

springs, lakes, forest and tussock make up many of the scenic attractions to the park.

You will need to charge your Tesla after today’s drive – There is a fast charging station

located 20km up the road from your accommodation, at the local petrol station. The

station is across from Adrift office who will guide you on the Tongariro Crossing

tomorrow.

Day 11 – Cambridge – National Park

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Accommodation: Nightsky Cottage – 2 nights

Self-catering

Nighsky cottage is on a Zero waste journey and the land it sits on has been protected by the

Environment Court. You will not find any single use plastic items and the cottage strictly

recycle all cardboard, paper, cans, plastics and glass. Food scraps go in the compost bin and

they even provide you with re-usable shopping bags and produce bags for the grocery shop.

All the cleaning materials and bathroom amenities are made from 100% natural ingredients,

made in NZ and preferably handmade. The cottage collects its own water and all wastewater

is processed on site.

Tongariro Alpine crossing – full day guided walk (small group or private)

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is known as one of the best 1-day walks in the world.

The track ventures between Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngauruhoe in the Tongariro National

Park. These volcanos are still active and the hike is a view into their growth and

destruction.

Mt Tongariro last erupted from Te Maari Crater in 2012 and Mt Ngauruhoe’s last was in

1975. The landscape on Mt Tongariro is peppered with craters that have been active at

different periods. The track leads through the perfectly flat moonscape of South Crater;

climbs to the edge of Red Crater; skirts around Central Crater; and then leads down

past the steaming Te Maari Crater. There are scoured volcanic rocks, lava flows frozen

in time, mountain springs and brightly coloured emerald lakes. No matter what the

weather, this is a hike of a lifetime!

Day 12 –National Park

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No charging required today.

Distance: 170km / 2 hours and 25 minutes

Beautiful Lake Taupo is actually a huge volcano with a fiery history. Its most recent

eruption, in 181 AD, was large enough to change the sky as far away as Europe and

China.

According to Maori legend, the lake is the pulsating heart of Maui's fish (New Zealand's

North Island). Popular Taupo experiences include Huka Falls, geothermal walks, lake

cruises and guided kayak expeditions to see the rock carvings at Mine Bay.

You will need to charge your Tesla today – Taupo has a Tesla Supercharger located in

town. It will take you a maximum of 40 minutes to get to fully charged car before

continuing on.

Accommodation: Poronui Lodge – Safari Tent – 2 nights

Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 13 –National Park - Taupo

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Poronui lodge and its working farm (Glazebrook Station) are both owned by the Westervelt

Company, a land resource organization taking an environmentally responsible approach to

managing the land. Some of the property’s active environmental practices include the use of

natural resources efficiently, reducing, reusing and recycling materials to minimise waste.

Protecting streamside zones, wetland areas and endangered species habitat. Ecological

restorating of selected areas to protect vulnerable or threatened species. Both rivers running

through the property are protected under a National Water Conservation Order and fishing

practices observe a strict catch and release policy. Poronui has also adopted a rigorous pest

control programme to eradicate threats to the native flora and fauna. Poronui has been

identified as a site with special environmental values. The isolation of Poronui, combined

with the foresight of its owners, means that large areas of native ecosystems still persist

today.

Today is at leisure to enjoy the lodge wonderful environment.

The lodge is suited for outdoor enthusiasts with its own mountain bike trails, over 150

kms of roads and trails suited for horse riding and countless walking trails across 6,000

acres of native beech forest.

Or if you feel less active, you can indulge in a cooking class with the lodge’s head chef or

let the stress melt away with a massage at the lodge’s spa.

Day 14 - Taupo

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Below are our two top pick for Poronui on-site activities!

Story of the Bees – guided tour (private)

This is the complete ‘Hive to Plate’ experience with one of the lodge very knowledgeable

and passionate staff. The Poronui hills are blanketed in native Mānuka plants. The

elevation of the property means that during the short flowering season, Mānuka is the

only pollen source for the bees. This results in some of the most pure and highest

quality Mānuka in New Zealand. Learn about every aspect of bees and honey making –

from how the colonies function and the special roles of the different bees, to

beekeeping and honey production. You’ll taste a wide range of native New Zealand

honeys and learn about their special properties. There’s even an opportunity to dress as

a beekeeper and visit a working hive.

Kai Waho – Maori experience (private)

Kai Waho means outdoor cuisine and when combined with the native surroundings, it is

the complete ‘Maori Outdoor Experience’. This is a real opportunity to learn about the

indigenous New Zealand Maori. How they existed, how they kept their culture and

traditions alive for centuries and how they gathered, stored and cooked food. Tom

Loughlin – tangata whenua (person of the land) is not only passionate about his culture

but is also a professional chef and expert hunter/gatherer. Tom uses traditional Maori

gathering techniques and cooking methods to create a magnificent hangi feast, while

sharing his knowledge and stories.

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Distance: 255km / 3 hours and 30 minutes

As you leave Poronui Lodge today, we suggest a quick charge at Taupo’s Tesla

supercharger.

The Coromandel Peninsula, with a mountainous interior cloaked in native rainforest

and more than 400 kilometres of dazzling white sand beaches, is a rustic, beautiful and

destination.

Accommodation: Manawa Lodge – 3 nights

Includes breakfast

Manawa Ridge is a Luxury Eco Retreat, an environmentally friendly lodge. It was hand-built

entirely from recycled timbers and energy efficient material, reflecting a creative flair and

love for the natural surroundings and featuring an artistic balance of old beams, polished

manuka, straw bale and mudbrick.

Hauraki Trail Trail – 1 day Paeroa to Waihi (self-guided)

From Waihi you will be transferred by shuttle to Paeroa to start your ride on the Hauraki

Rail Trail.

Ride from the historic town through NZ bush to the scenic and serene Karangahake

Gorge.

Enjoy the well-known Windows Walk and be surprised at the rich gold mining history of

this lovely area. Admire the majestic Owharoa falls.

Enjoy lunch at the Waikino Station Cafe and reach the Waihi Gold Discovery Centre to

put everything you saw into perspective.

Distance: 24 km / Riding time: 2-4 hours

Day 15 – Taupo - Waihi

Day 16 - Waihi

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Today is at leisure to visit the Coromandel Peninsula.

We recommend taking a drive along the East coast to visit Hot Water beach, Hahei,

Cathedral cove, Cooks beach and Whitianga.

You will need to charge your car today. The best place to do is in Whitianga. The

charging station is located in town and will be a convenient stop during your visit of the

Peninsula.

Distance: 155km / 2 hours

Today drive back to Auckland. On arrival in Auckland drop off your car rental and make

your way to your accommodation.

No need to charge your car today. Return it as it is and the rental company will charge it

for you.

Day 17 – Waihi – Coromandel Peninsula - Waihi

Day 18 – Waihi - Auckland

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Accommodation: Cordis Hotel – 1 night

Includes full breakfast

Cordis Hotel is Earthcheck platinum certified (2019). It has received New Zealand

environmental Initiative Award in 2016 and 2015 and was awarded the silver level for Trip

Advisor GreenLeader.

Today you will be collected from your hotel by your driver and transferred privately to

the airport in a Tesla Model X for your homebound flight.

Thank you for choosing Greenz Travel!

Day 19 – Auckland - Departure

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