Guided tours Culture & history Tours Multi-day trips Educational activities Religious & spiritual activities

Connect with like-minded travelers, delve into Māori traditions, and create memories beyond the ordinary. Get ready for an adventure that captures the heart and soul of Aotearoa!

Highlights

• Farm-To-Table Dinner: Enjoy a group dinner with locally sourced ingredients.
• geothermal land of Rotorua; a land of bubbling mud pools and natural hot springs
• immerse in the traditions and culture of the Māori people at Mitai Māori Village

Description

Embark on a breathtaking journey through New Zealand’s North Island, where culture, nature, and adventure collide. This 14-day fully guided tour starts and ends in Auckland, taking you through iconic destinations, hidden gems, and immersive experiences. Day 1: Auckland Arrival Begin in the vibrant “City of Sails.” Meet your guide and fellow travellers at Lylo Auckland. Explore Viaduct Harbour, hike Rangitoto Island, or sail to Waiheke. Optional experiences include skydiving, sailing, and the All Blacks Experience. Day 2: Auckland to Waitomo Stop in Raglan for coastal views and cafes, then head to Waitomo for a guided tour of Ruakuri Cave. Marvel at glowworms and limestone formations. Optional upgrade: Black Water Rafting through underground rivers. Day 3: Waitomo to Rotorua Start with a scenic walk, then visit the Hobbiton Movie Set. Continue to Rotorua for a visit to the National Kiwi Hatchery and learn about New Zealand’s iconic bird. Day 4: Rotorua Cultural Immersion Enjoy a free day with options like ziplining, Zorb, or geothermal parks. In the evening, stay at Te Pā Tū Māori Village. Experience traditional performances, kai (food), and stories around the bonfire. Day 5: Rotorua to Taupo Visit Huka Falls and Waiotapu Thermal Park. Cruise Lake Taupo at sunset, enjoy onboard pizza, and view Māori rock carvings. Optional swim in the lake! Day 6: Taupo to River Valley Travel to River Valley Lodge beside the Rangitikei River. Choose whitewater rafting, horse trekking, or e-biking. Enjoy a farm-to-table dinner with locally sourced ingredients. Day 7: River Valley to Wellington Arrive in New Zealand’s capital. Visit Mount Victoria and Te Papa Museum. Explore hidden laneways, bars, and waterfront sculptures. Day 8: Wellington Exploration Tour Wētā Workshop and see movie magic from The Lord of the Rings and Avatar. Optional activities include Zealandia eco-sanctuary and e-bike rentals. Day 9: Wellington to Martinborough Visit Kaitoke Regional Park (Rivendell filming location), explore Greytown’s Victorian charm, and enjoy a hands-on honey experience. Day 10: Martinborough to Napier Stop at Te Mata Peak for panoramic views before arriving in Napier, New Zealand’s Art Deco capital. Optional e-bike tours and wildlife safaris available. Day 11: Napier to Kohutapu Lodge Visit the National Aquarium, then head to Kohutapu Lodge for an immersive Māori experience. Learn traditional medicine, games, and enjoy a Hangi feast. Day 12: Kohutapu to Tauranga Start with a Powhiri (welcome ceremony), then relax at Hell’s Gate geothermal spa. End the day in Mount Maunganui with beach walks or summit hikes. Day 13: Tauranga to Coromandel Explore Whangamata and hike the Karangahake Gorge. Visit Cathedral Cove by foot, kayak, or boat. End the day soaking in natural hot pools at Hot Water Beach. Day 14: Coromandel to Auckland Return to Auckland via the lush Kaimai Ranges. Reflect on your journey and say farewell to your guide and new friends.

Includes

8 nights of hostel accommodation 8 Tasty Breakfasts 2 dinners - Traditional seasonal kai (food) at Mitai Māori Village and a Fresh farm-to-table dinner at River Valley Lodge Waitomo Ruakuri Cave Tour Te Puia geothermal guided tour Mitai Māori Village evening experience Hobbiton Movie Set tour Various scenic hikes along the way

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 30 days in advance for a full refund