Gushing geysers, aqua alpine lakes and meaningful Maoritanga – Auckland to Christchurch
Discover New Zealand’s North Island – with a taste of the South – on this 12-day adventure from Auckland to Christchurch. Ease into it with a few days soaking up the beauty of the Bay of Islands, then learn ancient Maori traditions and witness geothermal marvels in Rotorua. Choose whether to tackle the epic Tongariro Alpine Crossing and visit the cultural capital of Wellington. Explore sunny Nelson and the beachfront bush of Abel Tasman National Park and cap it off with time in Kaikoura, where the shores are filled with seals. Discover 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.
Be welcomed to Whakarewarewa by the Maori people who have lived there for over 700 years and wonder at the area’s steaming Te Puia 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.
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 join the group for a full-day trek over the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, hiking past aqua coloured lakes, craters and volcanos.
Cruise in between green islands Marlborough Sounds, where the hilly islands were once towering mountains and the channels were once dry valleys.
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 Southbound trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.
1. Tour commences in Auckland with group meeting on day 1 at 6:00pm and finishes on arrival in Christchurch on day 12 at approx 6PM. Please take this into consideration when booking any onward flights. We recommend you book accommodation in advance and extend your stay.
2. A single supplement is available on this 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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