Tuesday 2 December. We arrive at Claris Airport mid-morning, where we are met by our driver and lodge host, Leigh. Our first stop is the Community Arts Village, where we meet a local resident who warmly shares the island’s history and insights into everyday life.

Next, we take a stroll along beautiful Medlands Beach and enjoy a relaxed picnic lunch in the nearby reserve. After lunch, we visit the Island Gin Distillery to meet the laid-back distillers, learn about the creation of their products, and sample some of their beautifully crafted gins.

In the afternoon, we check into our accommodation at Sunset Waterfront Lodge, set on park-like grounds beside stunning Mulberry Grove Beach.

(Lunch, Dinner)

Wednesday 3 December. With spring in the air, today is all about appreciating the hospitality of the locals. We visit a selection of private homes, where passionate homeowners warmly welcome us into their gardens to share their unique flora, fauna, and island living. You don’t need to be a keen gardener to enjoy the open spaces and local pride on display.

(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Thursday 4 December. After breakfast, we head to Whangaparapara Wharf to board our boat for a coastal cruise. We pass historic sites, including the old Kauri Sawmill and Whaling Station, before heading up the west coast and weaving through the spectacular Broken Isles.

Navigating through Man O’ War Passage, we enjoy a scrumptious onboard lunch while anchored in the sheltered waters of Port Fitzroy Harbour.

After lunch, we disembark for a visit to Glenfern Sanctuary, where we learn about its conservation work protecting native birds such as the kaka parrot, wood pigeon, and banded rail. A walk to Sunset Rock rewards us with breathtaking panoramic views over Port Fitzroy Harbour and beyond.

(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Friday 5 December. Today, we continue our island exploration. First, we visit passionate bee farmer Jacque, who gives us a guided tour of his property and shares his deep knowledge of bees and the natural environment. We also get to sample some of his manuka honey.

Following this, our local driver takes us on a relaxed tiki-tour of the island. This includes a short bush walk into the stunning Nikau Palm Grove to see the island’s robust and vibrant Nikau palms. For the more active among us, there’s the option to continue on the track to the Kaitoke Hot Springs.

Those who prefer a more relaxed pace can continue the tiki-tour to explore the Okupu Harbour area, including ancient Pohutukawa trees and the ‘forgotten wharf’ at Blind Bay, with its charming stone bridges and deep streams.

We then return to the lodge for a relaxing afternoon, perhaps enjoying the antics of the busy kaka birds nearby.

(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Saturday 6 December. All good things must come to an end. After a wonderful few days exploring Great Barrier Island, we say our farewells and head home.

We hope you have enjoyed your holiday with Seemore Tours — where you see more, do more, and have more fun!

(Breakfast)