
8 Days | Immerse yourself in the beauty of the North Island





This is natural beauty on the biggest scale – soaring volcanoes, vast lakes and never-ending caves. Spend eight incredible days exploring the best of New Zealand’s North Island with the guidance of a passionate local leader. On a journey from Auckland to Wellington, sip local wine on Waiheke Island, explore the mythical world of Hobbiton, marvel at the geothermal delights of Rotorua, relax on the shores of Lake Taupo, explore the volcanic landscapes of Tongariro and sail across Wellington Harbor. This is an adventure that surprises at every turn.
Trip overview

- Start
- Auckland, New Zealand
- Finish
- Wellington, New Zealand
- Theme
- Explorer
- Destinations
- New Zealand
- Physical rating
- Indicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
- Style
- Premium
- Ages
- Min 15
- Group size
- Min 1 - Max 12
- Trip code
- PHPN
Our best 4-star accommodation and the highest level of service
All must-see locations plus authentic experiences exclusive to Premium
Trips led by our most experienced and highest-rated local leaders
- Sip your way around Waiheke Island off the shores of Auckland during an Exclusive Experience, visiting three cellar doors to learn about their production methods and sample some seriously excellent wine.
- Discover a magical underground world during a tour of the Waitomo Glow Worm Caves, then experience the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, from bubbling hot springs to geysers and mud pools.
- Enjoy a fascinating Exclusive Experience as you take a trip to Middle-earth and tour Hobbiton, where the iconic Lord of the Rings movies were shot.
- Be amazed by Tongariro National Park as you spend the day exploring its volcanic landscapes, then retire to your chateau-style Feature Stay where you can sit back and soak in views of Tongariro’s dazzling peaks.
- Get a special look at New Zealand’s trendy capital city, Wellington, during an Exclusive Experience on board a private catamaran, cruising around its delightful harbour.
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Forest & Bird. Donations help them give nature a voice - protecting wildlife and wild places in Aotearoa New Zealand by advocating for conservation on the ground and at a government level.
- This trip is new to our range this year. Despite rigorous planning and research, new itineraries can sometimes throw us some unexpected surprises. More often than not, it’ll be a welcome surprise, but every now and again there might be a hiccup. We like to think that is what puts the ‘adventure’ in ‘adventure travel’.
- There are walking opportunities throughout this trip. We recommend you bring good quality walking shoes if you're keen to enjoy a hike - or two!
Itinerary
View the itinerary for departures between 01 July 2023 - 30 June 2024
Inclusions
7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners
Private vehicle, Catamaran, Ferry
Resort (1 nights), Hotel (6 nights)
- Arrival airport transfer
- Tipping for accommodation, activities and transport
- Luggage transfer
- Daily breakfast and signature local meal experiences
- 24/7 on-ground support
- Auckland - Welcome Dinner
- Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
- Waiheke Island - Day Trip by Ferry
- Waiheke Island - Winery Visits with Wine Tasting & Lunch
- Hobbiton - Visit to the Lord of the Rings Movie Set
- Hobbiton - Drink at the Green Dragon
- Waitomo - Ruakuri Glow Worm Cave Visit
- Rotorua - Visit to Te Puia Geothermal Area with Local Guide & Hangi Lunch
- Rotorua - Ahua Gallery & Kiwi Conservation Centre
- Rotorua - Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland
- Tongariro National Park - Taranaki Falls
- Wellington - Evening Cruise on Wellington Harbour
- Rotorua - Polynesian Spa - from - NZD40
- Rotorua - Redwoods Treetop Walkway - NZD39
- Taupo - Lake Taupo Sailing Adventure - NZD69
Dates and availability
Important notes
1. A Single Supplement is bookable on this trip, subject to availability at the time of booking. Please note that due to the small properties we use there is only a limited amount of single supplements available per trip departure. If you would like to book a single supplement and enquire about availability please speak to your booking agent.
2. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
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