Gushing geysers, aqua alpine lakes and meaningful Maoritanga – Christchurch to Auckland
Explore New Zealand's North Island, from secluded beaches to volcanic craters, on this 12-day tour. Travel from Christchurch to Kaikoura, where you can spot seals on the rugged shoreline. Continue along the coast to Nelson and the cultural capital Wellington, then head inland to mighty Mt Ruapehu and geothermal Rotorua. Finish your trip in Auckland, but not before a few relaxing days spent on the Bay of Islands. An immersion in the incredible landscapes and Maori culture of Te Ika-a-Maui (the Maori term for the North Island) with plenty of free time to explore at your own pace, this trip is perfect for active nature lovers.
Be welcomed to Whakarewarewa by the Maori people who have lived there for over 700 years and wonder at the area’s steaming geysers, bubbling mud pits and lakes.
Feel the rush of Huka Falls, where a 100-metre-wide river is forced through a narrow volcanic chamber causing a torrent of incredible speed and power.
Explore the Abel Tasman National Park independently or on an optional tour, hiking through thick native forest and emerging on deserted sandy beaches.
Choose to embark on a full-day trek over the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, hiking past aqua coloured lakes, craters and volcanos.
Cruise though the Marlborough Sounds, where the hilly islands were once towering mountains and the channels were once dry valleys before they flooded 10,000 years ago.
Accommodation on this trip isn't luxurious but it's comfortable enough for you to relax after a day of adventure.
Lots of time allocated for optional activities means freedom and flexibility, but it does require a level of independence. Your leader is always on hand to give advice, point you in the right direction and help you book optional activities.
This trip includes time spent travelling in a minivan with your group. Extra space can be tight, and conditions may feel a little cramped. It’s all part of the adventure and a great way to get to know your fellow travellers. Please read the itinerary carefully for travel time estimates.
Trip departures are unavailable.
There are currently no scheduled departures on our New Zealand North Island Explorer Northbound trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.
1. Tour commences in Christchurch with group meeting on day 1 at 6 pm and finishes in Auckland day 12 at approximately 6 pm. Please consider this when booking flights and extra accommodation.
2. Trip runs in reverse, see tour code PTONU.
3. A single supplement is available to purchase and is valid for each night of the trip.
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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