A great tour of New Zealand’s North Island taking in so many unique features. Starting in Auckland and heading North to the beautiful coastal Bay of Islands. The tour then travels South through the North Island taking in underground caves at Waitomo, geothermal and Maori culture in Rotorua, the breathtaking peaks of Tongariro National Park before arriving in Wellington the capital city of New Zealand.
The Kauri Museum is located midway between Auckland and the Bay of Islands in Matakohe. Discover the history and the legacy of New Zealand’s ancient kauri forest, and the associated industries.
In addition to preserving the past, the Museum plays a role in conserving the remaining trees. It works to save NZ’s forests by raising awareness of the spread of the Kauri Dieback disease, and promoting forest ecology.
This is far more than a museum of timber. The Museum has stories of the Māori of the north-eastern Kaipara and European pioneers. Learn about early foresters and sawmillers, gum diggers and farmers, and business people, fishers and the local families. All of whom have made this area their home.
The Waitangi Treaty Grounds in the Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand’s most important historic sites.
Here, Aotearoa’s founding document, the Treaty of Waitangi, was signed in 1840. Today there is lots to see and do that connects visitors to that history. And it all comes with stunning views over the Bay of Islands
There are two contemporary museums. An authentic Whare Nui (Meeting House) hosts powerful Māori cultural performances. There are informative guided tours and an engaging visitor centre. Lush native forest and gardens. The inspiring art gallery and carving studio shouldn’t be missed. And the site also boasts, traditional Māori waka (canoe) and hāngi, a tranquil café and so much more. And all with stunning views over the Bay of Islands.
Board your cruise and take in the stunning views of the Bay of Islands. You’ll glide out through the islands and along the Rakaumangamanga Peninsula to Cape Brett. Here a historic lighthouse keeps watch over Piercy Island/Motukōkako or, as it is popularly known, the “Hole in the Rock”.
According to Māori legend, local warriors used to paddle through the hole in their waka (canoes) before departing for battle. Drops of water from the cave roof above were a good omen.
If conditions permit, your skipper will expertly guide the ship through the narrow space… And if you get dripped on, consider yourself lucky!
Keep an eye out for dolphins, whales and other marine life during your cruise, and have your camera ready as you get you up close to the action. The crew have years of experience locating dolphins in these waters!
Set off from Paihia in the Bay of Islands and travel through spectacular scenery as your driver shares fascinating stories about Northland’s history. This exhilarating tour will see you speeding down massive sand dunes, and driving along the iconic 90 Mile Beach.
According to Māori legend, the headland at Cape Reinga is where spirits leave New Zealand and return to the land of their ancestors, Hawaiki. Walk down to the iconic Cape Reinga lighthouse and see the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean crashing together below you. Soak up the amazing atmosphere and strikingly beautiful vistas, and don’t forget to snap a selfie with the famous signpost!
Located an hour north of Auckland and just outside Matakana is Sculptureum. We recommend a viewing time of 1.5-2 hours. Begin your Sculptureum Experience in the Garden of Creative Diversity which has paths leading through the Classical and Reflective gardens. Then move into the galleries and wind your way through the first five art galleries, all of which follow a different theme. You’ll then discover the two rear gardens which will delight, with their interesting mix of sculpture, artwork, and stunning palm trees. Finish off with the sixth gallery which contains the stunning glass chandelier by American artist, Dale Chihuly. We recommend allowing 2 hours for your walk (total length 1.4km across accessible, flat pathways) and you’re welcome to stop for lunch (additional expense) at one of the dining options during your self-guided tour. The Galleries & Gardens are open from 10am-4pm (with last entry at 2.30pm), seven days a week, 364 days a year – it is closed December 25, and can be enjoyed in all weather – there are umbrellas available for your use throughout your walk.
Known as one of New Zealand’s best natural attractions, take a boat ride through the glowworm grotto, marvel at thousands of magical glowworms and become part of over 130 years of cultural and natural history.
Discover an ancient world 30 million years in the making and marvel at Mother Nature’s light display as you glide silently through the starry wonderland of the Glowworm Grotto. Experience the serene ambience as you enter this galaxy of tiny living lights. The glowworm (Arachnocampa Luminosa) is unique to New Zealand, making the Waitomo Glowworm Caves an absolute must-do. See thousands of these tiny creatures as they radiate their unmistakable luminescent light in a subterranean world.
Many of the tour guides are direct descendants of the Maori chief who originally explored the cave, bringing the cave to life through story-telling and explaining the history, features and legends of the world-famous cave.
In traditional hāngī cooking, food such as fish and kumara (sweet potato), were cooked in a pit dug in the ground. Today, pork, lamb, potato, pumpkin and cabbage are also included. Hāngī was traditionally wrapped in flax leaves, but a modern Hāngī is more likely to use mutton cloth, aluminium foil and wire baskets. Traditionally the baskets were placed on hot stones at the bottom of a hole dug into the ground. The food is covered with a wet cloth and a mound of dirt that traps the heat from the stones. The Hāngī was left in the ground for about three to four hours, depending on the amount of food. The result of this process is tender meat and delicious vegetables, infused with smoky, earthy flavours. Today a process is used in above ground steaming facilities, giving a similar taste. Good food is central to the spirit of manaakitanga (hospitality). There are few experiences that rival sharing a feast cooked in a traditional Maori hāngī (earth oven), a centuries-old cooking method perfect for feeding a crowd and bringing a community together.
Conveniently located just minutes from Rotorua’s City centre, high on the side of Mount Ngongotaha, the Gondola will carry you to 487 metres above sea level to a stunning environment providing panoramic views of Rotorua City, Lake Rotorua and the surrounding area. There’s also Skyline Luge, which is a fun-filled adventure activity suitable for riders of all ages and experience levels. The tracks are all designed with twists, turns and tunnels to ride with your friends and family for a thrilling outdoor experience. Climb aboard your Luge cart and let gravity and your sense of adventure do the rest!
Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland is a spectacular showcase of New Zealand’s most colourful and unique geothermal elements sculpted by thousands of years of geothermal activity. Featuring some amazing colours and thermal wonders such as the Lady Knox Geyser which is presented daily at 10.15am. This unique geyser can reach up to heights of 10-20 metres. See and learn about the magnificent workings of the Lady Knox geyser from the wonderful team. There is also the geothermal park, sculptured out of volcanic activity and thousands of years in the making, Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland is considered to be New Zealand’s most colourful and diverse geothermal sightseeing attraction. You are introduced to a uniquely different natural landscape – the key to what you see lies below the surface – one of the most extensive geothermal systems in New Zealand, extending over 18-sq. km. The Mud Pool is the largest mud pool in New Zealand, it was originally the site of a large mud volcano which was destroyed through erosion in the 1920’s.
The world-renowned Agrodome farm show is a must on any visit to Rotorua. It is set in 350-acres of lush farmland, only 10 minutes from Rotorua city centre. Be entertained by a cast of talented animals.
For over 40 years, visitors have come to the the famous Farm Show at the Agrodome. You can also visit the Farmyard Nursery. It is home to the cutest baby animals who are available for cuddles and photos all year round.
There is a guided farm tour of the 350-acre working farm. You’ll get to hand-feed loads of friendly animals and sample delicious kiwifruit juice and honey from the land. And there is also the Woollen Mill and Shearing Museum to visit. Here you’ll learn the remarkable story of, NZ shearing pioneers, the Bowen brothers and discover the full process of wool from the sheep’s back to yours.
Discover one of New Zealand’s most magnificent geothermal wonderlands near Rotorua at Te Puia. See dramatic geysers, bubbling mud and beautiful native bush.
Enjoy the opportunity to come face to face with the biggest, active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere, Pōhutu Geyser. There are also jumping mud pools and live kiwi in the Kiwi Conservation Centre.
And watch master carvers and weavers at work at the NZ Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, and hear guides share stories passed down from their ancestors.
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing track ventures between Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngauruhoe in the Tongariro National Park. These volcanoes 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. Your guide will ensure you are well informed throughout the walk and is there to support and assist you on the jouney.
Summer offers a majestic landscape with rich colours and varying textures released from within the Earth’s Crust. In summer this track can get busy and where possible, with this guided hike you get taken away from the busy areas while making sure that the popular sights are still experienced. This is a 19km full day experience.
This is a superb way of experiencing the Tongariro National Park and enjoying this stunning time of day. This fantastic evening option is ideally suited to maximise a travel day to or from Tongariro National Park. This walk is also great for those who would like to experience the volcanic terrain but have limited time or fitness for the more strenuous full day treks. The sunset tour is an easy 2 hours in amongst the Tongariro Volcanoes.
We pick and choose the exact route to suit the level of ability for the group for example, if walking on a pathless track is too difficult, we can change the route to something easier.
The route is selected from one of the following:
We walk for approximately 60 – 80 minutes before selecting the ideal spot to enjoy a glass of New Zealand bubbles as we watch the sunset. The preferred route is the Taranaki Falls loop track, other route options are a return trip starting on the world famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing track; return route out to sunset ridge or Meads Wall. Your guide will talk about the area with their local knowledge of geology, volcanology and New Zealand cultural history. A memorable way to see the National Park with sunset lighting up a majestic Alpine setting.
We can customise any of our Self guided drive tours to your needs
Auckland, or Tāmaki Makaurau in Maori, is New Zealand’s largest city. It is based around 2 large and picturesque harbours. ‘The City of Sails’ is known as such because of the many yachts often seen on those harbours.
Tāmaki Makaurau is one of the few cities in the world to have harbours on two major bodies of water. The central part of the urban area occupies a narrow isthmus between the Manukau Harbour on the Tasman Sea and the Waitematā Harbour on the Pacific Ocean.
The Auckland landscape is also dotted with 53 volcanic centres that make up the Auckland Volcanic Field. And the many volcanic cones are a feature of the city.
In the centre of the city, the iconic Sky Tower dominates the skyline and has views across the city and harbours.
There is lots to see and do close to the CBD. Bustling precincts include Wynyard Quarter and Viaduct Harbour, full of superyachts and lined with bars and cafes. Auckland Domain, the city’s oldest park, covers an extinct volcano and is home to the formal Wintergardens. A short harbour-side drive takes you to Mission Bay Beach, which offers a relaxed beachside vibe and a seaside promenade — a wonderful place for a stroll.
A slightly longer drive will take you to the Waitakere Ranges, which surrounding the city to the west, and pristine sub-tropical rainforest.
Rotorua is an inland city that is famous for its geothermal activity, Maori culture experiences, 18 lakes, and three major rivers in a beautiful natural environment.
Rotorua is a major destination for both domestic and international tourists. Its geothermal activity, featuring geysers and hot mud pools, are world renowned. This thermal activity is created by the Rotorua Caldera, over which the town is built.
In Te Puia’s Whakarewarewa Valley, there are bubbling mud pools and the 30m-tall Pohutu Geyser, which erupts many times daily. Its also home to a living Maori village and the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, with traditional wood carving and weaving schools.
Rotorua was one of the first places in the country to host tourists who came to experience the healing properties of the geothermal waters.
Wellington is New Zealand’s capital city and the location of our parliament. Located at the bottom of the North Island it sits on the Cook Strait, which divides the North and South Islands. Strong winds through the Cook Strait give it the nickname “Windy Wellington”.
It is a vibrant and compact city, with a beautiful waterfront promenade, sandy beaches, a working harbour and some lovely turn of the century, timber houses on the steep hills it features. From Lambton Quay, the iconic red Wellington Cable Car heads to the Wellington Botanic Gardens.
Wellington is home to New Zealand’s National Museum, Te Papa, and bespoke art and creative pursuits thrive in this city. Couple this with a strong café and restaurant culture and you have an interesting and unique little city to explore.
The Bay of Islands is a subtropical micro-region in the north of the North Island. It is known for its beauty, stunning beaches, deep sea fishing & importance to New Zealand history. And it is paradise for those that love beaches and water activities with a little colonial history thrown in.
The Bay of Islands includes 144 islands between Cape Brett and the Purerua Peninsula. The boutique towns of Opua, Paihia, Russell, Kerikeri and Waitangi, which played a very special part in Aotearoa’s history, populate its coastline.
There are a number of excellent ways to experience the region. One of the most popular activities is a trip to Cape Brett and the ‘Hole in the Rock’ on Piercy Island. A passenger ferry service runs between Paihia and Russell. And a vehicle ferry provides a link between Opua and Russell.
On land, you’ll enjoy beautiful river and seaside walking tracks or encounter the mighty kauri tree in pristine subtropical rainforest. This is a very beautiful and popular part of the country and a favourite with visitors and Kiwis alike.
Tongariro National Park is situated in the middle of the North Island, just south of Lake Taupō. This UNESCO World Heritage site covers almost 80,000 hectares of awe-inspiring landscapes.
The mountains of Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe dominate the area. Access its diverse terrain from a variety of neighbouring towns including Ohakune, Turangi or Taumarunui. Or base yourself, right in the heart of the National Park, at Whakapapa and National Park Villages.
The Tongariro National Park is most famous for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and the large ski fields of Whakapapa and Tūroa on Mount Ruapehu. But there is a huge variety of activities to enjoy in and around the park year round.
This stunning location offers you the opportunity to spend some time exploring the great outdoors. Walks, hikes and bike rides for every age and ability are easy to access. They’re perfect for day trips or multi-day adventures.
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