North Island Adventure

Itinerary Details

1. Day 1Arrival

   Welcome to your New Zealand Adventure! This evening is a great opportunity to get to know your tour group in a relaxed atmosphere, over food and drinks. After dinner you can wander around the city and bars to familiarise yourselves with the diverse and eclectic night life. Or, have an early night to prepare for our journey the next day!

   
   

   • Local Accommodation
2. Day 2Kaikoura (CHC-AKL) or Auckland to Coromandel (AKL-CHC)

   Christchurch to Auckland Itinerary

   You can have a lie in this morning if you want! There is also a chance to explore the city and do some shopping before leaving for Kaikōura. Rugged snow-capped mountains drop right down to the black sanded beaches in Kaikōura, making it an incredible backdrop to experience the famous sea life in the area.  Kaikoura has unique geographical features which makes it the ideal location for observing and learning about sperm, orca and humpback whales. Although migration is normally seasonal, certain whales in the region can be spotted year-round.
   
   INCLUDED
   Visit a seal colony
   
   OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
   Whale Watching

   
   

   Auckland to Christchurch Itinerary
   

   Leaving the big smoke of Auckland behind, you'll head to the Coromandel Peninsula, a veritable paradise of beautiful beaches and misty rainforests. The drive here is spectacular – the road twists and turns dramatically as it follows the coastline, and the ocean gets clearer and more pristine before your eyes. Get your cameras ready – the views are magnificent!
   
   You'll arrive in the Coromandel with plenty of time for your guide to show you around. The Coromandel is home to the famous Hot Water Beach and thousands visit each year to dig their own personal hot tub. If the tide times allow, you’ll grab the buckets and spades and get busy digging!
   
   INCLUDED
   Visit Hot Water Beach

   OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
   Cathedral Cove Kayaking
   
   

   • Local Accommodation
   • Breakfast
3. Day 3Kaikōura to Wellington (CHC-AKL) or Coromandel to Rotorua (AKL-CHC)

   Christchurch to Auckland Itinerary
   
   After kicking off the morning with some final exploration in Kaikōura, you'll head north. Upon arriving at Picton there is a short break to explore the port and get something to eat before catching the ferry to Wellington.
   
   One of the most iconic and classic New Zealand activities is sailing the Cook Strait between the North and South Islands. From the decks of the ferry, you'll enjoy beautiful views of the Marlborough Sounds before heading out into the open waters of the Cook Strait. This journey is thought to be one of the most beautiful ferry journeys in the world, keep an eye out for dolphins and fur seals! The city skyline of New Zealand's capital will stretch out in front of you for the final stretch through Wellington harbor.  If you'd prefer to stay inside, the ferries have amenities to enjoy – from TV and cinema rooms to free Wi-Fi to various food and drink options.
   
   INCLUDED
   Cook Strait Ferry Crossing

   
   

   Auckland to Christchurch Itinerary

   This morning walk along the cliffs and down to Cathedral Cove, a location you may recognize from the Chronicles of Narnia. With perfect beaches and massive rock arches and columns, it’s one of the most popular spots in the Coromandel.
   
   Alternatively, take an optional guided Cathedral Cove kayak trip and check out the stunning coastline from a different vista point, accompanied by a local dolphin or two if you’re lucky!
   
   The North Island Volcanic Plateau covers much of central North Island, however Rotorua is exceptional for its geothermal activity. With striking neon blue and red lakes, steaming rivers, active volcanoes and geysers galore, there are more unique natural wonders to be found in Rotorua than most places in the world.
   
   Later this afternoon you'll head towards Rotorua, stopping off at Matamata – the famous ‘Home of Hobbiton’. Much to the delight of Lord of the Rings fans, a guided visit awaits us at the Hobbiton Movie Set which is an absolute must-do when visiting NZ. On this fully guided tour of the 12 acre Middle-earth movie set you will see Hobbit Holes, the Mill, and you can even enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon Inn!
   
   INCLUDED
   Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
   
   OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
   Cathedral Cove Kayaking
   
   
   
   

   • Local Accommodation
   • Breakfast
4. Day 4Wellington to Taupō (CHC-AKL) or Rotorua (AKL-CHC)

   Christchurch to Auckland Itinerary
   
   This morning your tour guide will give you a tour of Wellington city and the surrounding bays. This includes a trip to Weta Workshop, where films like Lord of the Rings have been made. We may also visit the parliament buildings, cable car and Mount Victoria. Wellington is full of great shops and eateries, it’s also home to Te Papa Tongarewa – New Zealand’s national museum which is well worth a visit.
   
   You'll drive along the Desert Road that divides the Rangipo Desert, barren land with poor vegetation due to bad soil conditions and drying winds. The climate is harsh and in winter it is not unusual to see snow. However, the biggest attractions on this road are that of Mount Ruapehu, Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe, the volcano better known as Mount Doom from Lord of the Rings. On the other side of the road is the lesser noticed Kaimanawa Range, home to a breed of wild horses that can be spotted on rare occasions.
   
   You'll arrive at the accommodation in Taupō by the evening. Taupō is a beautiful lakeside town with a stunning mountain backdrop. Lake Taupō is New Zealand’s largest lake and, believe it or not, it’s roughly the same size as Singapore!  This place is all about the thrills and spills and you'll have the whole day to explore tomorrow. So, feel free to relax at the hostel or go out to experience some of the town’s best nightlife!
   
   INCLUDED
   Scenic drive through Tongariro National Park
   Mt Victoria Lookout
   
   OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
   Weta Workshop Cave Tour

   
   

   Auckland to Christchurch Itinerary

   Today is a free day to explore the Rotorua area. Talk to your guide for the best free things to see and do in the neighborhood, visiting Kuirau Park’s steaming and hissing mud pools is recommended!
   
   If adrenaline is your thing, the highest commercial ‘waterfall drop’ in the world, on the Kaituna River, is begging to be conquered on an exhilarating rafting trip.
   
   Or perhaps you’d like to try thundering down grassy hills in a giant air-cushioned inflatable ball?
   
   You can head deep into one of New Zealand’s most ancient forests and experience over 600 meters of ziplines and swing bridges with a canopy adventure. Plus, learn about the native wildlife and ecology as you zipline from tree to tree.
   
   If you’d like a water-based adventure you can take a guided kayak trip across scenic Lake Rotoiti to the spectacular Manupirua Springs Hot Pools, which are only accessible by boat. Have a leisurely soak while your guide cooks an appetising Kiwi BBQ Dinner. After dinner enjoy a sunset paddle across the lake and a enjoy a visit to the glow worm caves.
   
   Whatever way you choose to spend today - be sure to get a good night’s sleep as there are more Rotorua adventures planned for tomorrow!
   
   
   OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
   Mt Tarawera Crater Hike
   River Sledging
   White Water Rafting
   Forest Ziplining Canopy Tour
   Guided Glowworm Kayak, Hot Pools & Dinner
   ZORB
   Redwoods Treewalk
   
   

   • Local Accommodation
   • Breakfast
5. Day 5Taupo (CHC-AKL) or Rotorua to Murupara (AKL-CHC)

   Christchurch to Auckland Itinerary
   
   A full day in Taupō… are you in the mood for peaceful lakeside tranquillity or adrenaline and adventure? Either way, Taupō’s got you covered. For many, the ultimate adventure on offer here is the hiking.
   
   New Zealand’s most famous day hike is also in the area. The 19.4 km Tongariro Crossing is an alpine hike around Tongariro, which is one of the country’s most famous and beautiful volcanoes. It’s a serious workout, but it’s totally worth it. Once you make your way to the top you are greeted with turquoise and green lakes, along with vistas that stretch all the way to the coast.
   
   If you’re looking for a thrill, skydiving over the lake or bungy jumping over New Zealand’s longest river are suggested. There are heaps of other activities on offer such as cruising the lake to see Māori rock carvings, hiking along the shore of Lake Taupō and even the chance to soak in some of the local geothermal pools.
   
   OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
   The Tongariro Crossing
   Skydive
   Water Touch Bungy
   Lake Taupō Sailing

   
   

   Auckland to Christchurch Itinerary

   Today you'll visit the Te Puia Māori Village. You’ll learn more about Māori history and culture, come face to face with the Pohutu Geyser, see bubbling mud pools and get up close and personal with the endangered and iconic kiwi bird.
   
   Later this afternoon you'll head to the Kohutapu Lodge in Murupara. This is home for tonight and it is here that you’ll have a chance to learn the world-famous haka and weave your own dinner plate out of flax (a type of plant).
   
   Tonight’s dinner is a traditional hāngi meal. Cooked in an underground earth oven you can expect tender meat and delicious vegetables infused with a smoky, earthy fragrance – it will fill your puku (belly) right up!
   
   The best part about spending the evening at Kohutapu Lodge? Most of the proceeds from this activity go back into the local community.
   
   INCLUDED
   Visit Te Puia Māori Village
   See kiwi birds
   See the Pōhutu Geyser
   Learn the haka
   Learn to weave flax
   Dinner (a hāngi cooked in an underground oven)
   
   

   • Local Accommodation
   • Breakfast
6. Day 6Taupō to Murupara (CHC-AKL) or Murupara to Taupō (AKL-CHC)

   Christchurch to Auckland Itinerary
   
   Today you'll visit the Te Puia Māori Village. You’ll learn more about Māori history and culture, come face to face with the Pohutu Geyser, see bubbling mud pools and get up close and personal with the endangered and iconic kiwi bird.
   
   Later this afternoon you'll head to the Kohutapu Lodge in Murupara. This is home for tonight and it is here that you’ll have a chance to learn the world-famous haka and weave your own dinner plate out of flax (a type of plant). Tonight’s dinner is a traditional hāngi meal. Cooked in an underground earth oven you can expect tender meat and delicious vegetables infused with a smoky, earthy fragrance – it will fill your puku (belly) right up!  The best part about spending the evening at Kohutapu Lodge? Most of the proceeds from this activity go back into the local community.
   
   INCLUDED
   Find natural hot springs
   Learn the haka
   Learn to weave flax
   Dinner (a hāngi cooked in an underground oven)
   
   OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
   Water Touch Bungy
   Skydive

   
   

   Auckland to Christchurch Itinerary

   It’s only a short drive to the next destination, Taupō, and there’s plenty to discover along the way. From mesmerizing mud pools to the thundering rapids of the Huka Falls and the Aratiatia Dam, your trusty guide will make sure you don’t miss a thing.
   
   Taupō is a beautiful lakeside town with a stunning mountain backdrop. Lake Taupō is New Zealand’s largest lake and, believe it or not, it’s roughly the same size as Singapore!
   
   This place is all about the thrills and spills, and there are plenty of options in store this afternoon. Get your hair wet with a water touch bungy jump, take an unforgettable skydive or a sunset lake cruise for amazing lake and mountain views.
   
   INCLUDED
   Find natural hot springs
   
   OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
   Water touch Bungy
   Skydive
   Lake Taupō sailing
   
   

   • Local Accommodation
   • Breakfast
7. Day 7Murupara to Rotorua (CHC-AKL) or Taupo (AKL-CHC)

   Christchurch to Auckland Itinerary
   
   The North Island Volcanic Plateau covers much of central North Island, however Rotorua is exceptional for its geothermal activity. With striking neon blue and red lakes, steaming rivers, active volcanoes and geysers galore, there are more unique natural wonders to be found in Rotorua than most places in the world.
   
   This evening a visit to Te Puia is included - a well-known Māori culture centre. At Te Puia you can explore Whakarewarewa geothermal valley, visit New Zealand’s native kiwi birds, and learn about Māori history & culture.
   
   INCLUDED
   Visit Te Puia Māori Village
   See kiwi birds
   See the Pōhutu Geyser

   
   

   Auckland to Christchurch Itinerary

   A full day in Taupō… are you in the mood for peaceful lakeside tranquility or adrenaline and adventure? Either way, Taupō’s got you covered. For many, the ultimate adventure on offer here is the hiking.
   
   New Zealand’s most famous day hike is also in the area. The 19.4 km Tongariro Crossing is an alpine hike around Tongariro, which is one of the country’s most famous and beautiful volcanoes. It’s a serious workout, but it’s totally worth it. Once you make your way to the top you are greeted with turquoise and green lakes, along with vistas that stretch all the way to the coast.
   
   If you’re looking for a thrill, we suggest skydiving over the lake or bungy jumping over New Zealand’s longest river. There are heaps of other activities on offer such as cruising the lake to see Māori rock carvings, hiking along the shore of Lake Taupō and even the chance to soak in some of the local geothermal pools.
   
   
   OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
   The Tongariro Crossing
   Skydive
   Water Touch Bungy
   Lake Taupō Sailing
   
   

   • Local Accommodation
   • Breakfast
8. Day 8Rotorua (CHC-AKL) or Taupō to Wellington (AKL-CHC)

   Christchurch to Auckland Itinerary
   
   Today is a free day to explore the Rotorua area. Talk to your guide for the best free things to see and do in the neighborhood, we recommend visiting Kuirau Park’s steaming and hissing mud pools! If adrenaline is your thing, the highest commercial ‘waterfall drop’ in the world, on the Kaituna River, is begging to be conquered on an exhilarating rafting trip. Or perhaps you’d like to try thundering down grassy hills in a giant air-cushioned inflatable ball?
   
   You can head deep into one of New Zealand’s most ancient forests and experience over 600 meters of ziplines and swing bridges with a canopy adventure. Plus, learn about the native wildlife and ecology as you zipline from tree to tree.
   
   If you’d like a water-based adventure you can take a guided kayak trip across scenic Lake Rotoiti to the spectacular Manupirua Springs Hot Pools, which are only accessible by boat. Have a leisurely soak while your guide cooks an appetising Kiwi BBQ Dinner. After dinner enjoy a sunset paddle across the lake and a enjoy a visit to the glow worm caves. Whatever way you choose to spend today - be sure to get a good night’s sleep as there are more Rotorua adventures to be had tomorrow.

   
   

   OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
   Forest Ziplining Canopy Tour
   Guided Glowworm Kayak, Hot Pools and Dinner
   Mt Tarawera Crater Hike
   Redwood Forest Canopy Walk
   Redwoods Nightlights Treewalk
   River Sledging
   White Water Rafting
   ZORB
   
   

   Auckland to Christchurch Itinerary
   
   It’s a big drive from Taupō to Wellington, but there’s some unbelievable scenery on offer.
   
   You'll drive along the Desert Road that divides the Rangipo Desert, barren land with poor vegetation due to bad soil conditions and drying winds. The climate is harsh and in winter it is not unusual to see snow. However, the biggest attractions on this road are that of Mount Ruapehu, Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe, the volcano better known as Mount Doom from Lord of the Rings. On the other side of the road is the lesser noticed Kaimanawa Range, home to a breed of wild horses that can be spotted on rare occasions.
   
   You'll pull into Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city, in the afternoon, with just enough time for film buffs make a trip to Weta Workshop where the props and physical effects of Lord of the Rings and Avatar were produced. Wellington is full of great shops and eateries, it’s also home to Te Papa Tongarewa – New Zealand’s national museum which is well worth a visit. Wellington is a compact city on the waterfront, you’re able to easily walk along the beachfront, ride the historic cable car or hike up Mount Victoria for views of the city.
   
   Wellington is famous for its bars and eateries and is perfect for any craft beer fans – you’ll be spoiled for choice tonight!
   
   INCLUDED
   Scenic drive through Tongariro National Park
   Mt Victoria Lookout
   
   OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
   Weta Workshop Cave Tour
   

   • Local accommodation
   • Breakfast
9. Day 9Rotorua to Coromandel (CHC-AKL) or Wellington to Kaikōura (AKL-CHC)

   Christchurch to Auckland Itinerary
   
   Today you'll leave Rotorua behind to continue the adventures.  Much to the delight of Lord of the Rings fans, you'll start today with a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set, which is an absolute must-do on the way through Matamata. On a fully guided tour of the 12-acre Middle-earth set you will see Hobbit Holes, the Mill, and even enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon Inn!
   
   It’s no secret that many blockbuster hits have been filmed in New Zealand due to the incredible, jaw droppingly beautiful landscapes. Around lunchtime, you'll head up north to the Coromandel to discover more of them first-hand. Stunning remote beaches, dense wooded forest and clear blue waters make the Coromandel one of New Zealand’s favorite getaways.
   
   You’ll walk together out along the cliffs down to Cathedral Cove, which you might recognize from the Chronicles of Narnia films. Perfect beaches and massive rock arches and columns make it one of the most popular spots in the Coromandel!
   
   INCLUDED
   Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
   
   OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
   Cathedral Cove Kayaking

   
   

   Auckland to Christchurch Itinerary

   Wellington is famous for its coffee and takes it very seriously, so it's recommend you find a cafe and kick back with a fresh brew to start the day! Today you'll journey from the North Island to the South Island via a ferry over the Cook Strait. This journey is thought to be one of the most beautiful ferry journeys in the world, keep an eye out for dolphins and fur seals! Once you get to Picton, the South Island port, it’s a 2.5 hour drive to Kaikoura – a beautiful, small seaside town known for its black sand beaches and marine life.
   
   INCLUDED
   Interislander ferry over the Cook Strait through the Marlborough Sounds
   
   

   • Local Accommodation
   • Breakfast
10. Day 10Coromandel to Auckland (CHC-AKL) or Kaikōura to Christchurch (AKL-CHC)

    Christchurch to Auckland Itinerary
    
    This morning, you'll make your way out to the world-famous Hot Water Beach. The trip will be timed during low tide, so you can dig a hole in the sand where natural hot springs bubble up to create your own personal hot tub!
    
    After a satisfying soak you'll head to Auckland, New Zealand’s biggest city. Auckland sits on the narrow sliver of land where the Northland peninsula tapers south to meet the rest of the North Island. The sea is always nearby, and it isn't difficult to guess why Auckland’s called the ‘City of Sails’.  You'll arrive around 5pm, with plenty of time to find a great place to eat and to hit up Auckland’s nightlife. It’s the last night together as a group, so expect a big one!
    
    INCLUDED
    Visit Hot Water Beach
    
    OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
    Cathedral Cove Kayaking

    
    

    Auckland to Christchurch Itinerary

    You'll have a free morning in Kaikoura where you may wish to wander around the town, head on over to the beach or take part in a popular activity such as whale watching. Kaikoura has unique geographical features which makes it the ideal location for observing and learning about sperm, orca and humpback whales. Although migration is normally seasonal, certain whales in the region can be spotted year-round. Later in the day you'll head on down to Christchurch. Make the most of Christchurch’s bars and restaurants tonight, it's recommend to head on down to Riverside Market to check out some of the places to dine.
    
    OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
    Whale watching
    
    

    • Local Accommodation
    • Breakfast
11. Day 11Departure

    The tour has officially finished. Spend today at your leisure - let our team know if you want us to extend your accommodation.