Down the North Island in 4 days, including Waitomo Caves, Rotorua and Wellington, then back on the train ...

Day 1: Auckland - Waitomo - Rotorua
Travel south through lush Waikato farmland to Waitomo Caves for a boat ride under a galaxy of glow-worms. Continue east to Rotorua, steeped in Maori culture and history. Tonight enjoy a Maori Hangi (feast) and concert. Stay 2 nights in Rotorua.

Day 2: At Rotorua
This morning see roaring geysers, boiling mud pools at the thermal area, tame trout at the springs and performing sheep and dogs at the Agrodome. This afternoon is free - there are many activities to enjoy.

Day 3: Rotorua - Wellington
Drive south to Wairakei - wreathed by steam, then to Taupo. Skirt Lake Taupo, and cross the volcanic landscape of the Desert Road past the majestic peaks of Tongariro, Ngaruahoe and Ruapehu. Continue across the fertile plains of the Manawatu and along the rugged Kapiti coastline to Wellington. An evening tour takes in Parliament Buildings, Old St Paul's Cathedral and Mt Victoria. Stay 1 night in Wellington.

Day 4: Wellington - Auckland 
Board the Overlander train for a full day journey to Auckland.
*Please note, over winter the Overlander train schedule is decreased - in this situation an express coach will replace the train. Follow the Kapiti Coast northwards to ascend the central plateau and the Raurimu Spiral. Skirt around Mt Ruapehu then through rolling sheep country towards Hamilton.  Continue alongside the Waikato River to Auckland arriving in the evening.