Experience Auckland’s Harbor Beauty
Auckland, affectionately known as the “City of Sails,” boasts one of the world’s finest harbors. Today’s adventure takes you onto the sparkling waters of the Waitemata Harbor for an unforgettable journey to Rangitoto Island.

Volcanic Wonder
Rangitoto is just one of 44 dormant volcanoes in the Auckland region, sitting majestically offshore from the city center. This distinctive landmark offers truly spectacular views—from Auckland’s impressive skyline to the expansive Hauraki Gulf and its scattered islands.

Perfect Introduction
This excursion provides the ideal introduction to New Zealand’s natural wonders, clearing your mind and preparing you for the 23 days of non-stop adventure that lie ahead!

Practical Information:

• Accommodation: Haka House Auckland City
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
• Included Activities: Water taxi to Rangitoto Island, Volcano hike

Today’s the day we say ‘haere rā’ (goodbye) to Auckland and ‘kia ora!’ (hello) to the trip of a lifetime! First stop, Hahei Beach on the stunning Coromandel Peninsula.

Destination Highlights

• Hahei Beach: This gorgeous coastal paradise will capture your heart (and have you calculating how much it would cost to move to NZ’s coast permanently)
• Hot Water Beach: When the tides are right, we’ll visit this unique natural wonder where you can dig your own thermal hot pool in the sand
• True Kiwi Experience: Enjoy the perfect blend of natural beauty and relaxation that defines the New Zealand coastal lifestyle

Accommodation

Hahei Holiday Resort – Your comfortable home base for exploring the Coromandel

Meals

• Included: Breakfast
• Lunch & Dinner: We’ll stop at a supermarket to stock up on supplies en-route
• Dinner Option: Self-cater or join the optional group BBQ dinner (additional cost)

Activities

Optional Paid Activities

• Kayaking
• Hahei Explorer boat tour

Free Activities

• Dig your own natural hot pool at Hot Water Beach (who said backpackers can’t do luxury?)

Travel Tips

• Bring a small shovel or spade for Hot Water Beach if you have one
• Check tide times for the best Hot Water Beach experience
• Pack swimwear, sunscreen, and a towel for beach activities
• Bring a camera to capture the spectacular coastal views

Get ready to experience one of New Zealand’s most beloved coastal destinations!

Begin your day with a magical sunrise walk along the pristine shores of Hahei Beach before boarding the bus for your scenic drive to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua. Along the way, you’ll stretch your legs with a breathtaking walk through the historic and naturally stunning Karangahake Gorge. The journey continues with an enchanting adventure to Middle Earth as you explore the world-famous Hobbiton Movie Set on a guided tour of this Lord of the Rings filming location.

Upon arrival in Rotorua, you’ll check in at your accommodation, Haka House Rotorua. In the evening, wander beneath the towering giants of Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest before enjoying free time to explore this unique geothermal town with its bubbling mud pools and distinctive sulfur scent. Your guide can provide details and recommendations for numerous optional activities available to enhance your Rotorua experience.

Accommodation: Haka House Rotorua
Meals Included: Breakfast
Included Activities: Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
Free Activities: Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest walk

Morning: Geothermal Wonders

Start your day exploring Kuirau Park, Rotorua’s natural wonderland where you’ll witness fascinating geothermal activity including:

• Bubbling mud pools
• Steaming lakes
• Natural hot springs

Afternoon: Off the Beaten Path

After experiencing the tourist hub of Rotorua, journey to the tranquil shores of Lake Aniwhenua for an authentic immersion into Māori culture. Your destination is Kohutapu Lodge, owned by a local Māori family deeply connected to their tribal heritage and community.

Cultural Experiences

During your stay, you’ll:

• View sacred Māori rock carvings
• Participate in traditional stick games
• Witness the preparation of a ground-cooked ‘hangi’
• Taste what might be the most memorable meal of your journey—or lifetime!
• Learn the powerful Haka dance
• Try your hand at traditional Māori flax weaving

Exclusive Package Includes:

• One night’s accommodation at the serene lakeside Kohutapu Lodge
• Full traditional hangi buffet dinner with dessert
• Continental breakfast
• Guided tour to sacred Māori rock carvings
• Introduction to the Murupara area, its people, history and challenges

Accommodation

Kohutapu Lodge – lakeside serenity with cultural immersion

Meals Included

• Breakfast
• Traditional hangi dinner and dessert

Free Activities

• Māori rock carving visits
• Volleyball
• Māori cultural games

Prepare for a genuine cultural experience that reveals the heart and soul of New Zealand beyond the typical tourist attractions.

Rise and shine! Enjoy your buffet breakfast and get ready for a day of jam-packed adventure. Keep your togs (swimwear) handy, because our first stop is Kerosene Creek – a naturally hot river and the perfect place for a morning soak.

Then it’s on to Taupo to see Australasia’s largest lake and the mighty Huka Falls. You’ll have time to grab lunch and take a walk to explore or simply relax at your accommodation.

Accommodation

Haka House Taupo

Meal Information

• Included: Breakfast
• Lunch & Dinner: We’ll stop at a supermarket to stock up on supplies
  • Self-cater or join the optional group dinner

Activities

Free Activities

• Kerosene Creek hot springs
• Huka Falls visit
• Spa Park walk in Taupo
• Lake Taupo exploration

Optional Paid Activities

• Skydiving in Taupo
• Bungy jumping in Taupo

Don’t forget to bring:

• Swimwear for Kerosene Creek
• Camera for Huka Falls
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Money for optional activities and meals

Travel from the serene shores of Lake Taupo to the majestic landscapes of Tongariro National Park, New Zealand’s oldest national park and a UNESCO dual World Heritage site.

Morning

Begin your day with a scenic drive from Lake Taupo to the iconic Tongariro National Park, where three active volcanoes—Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu—dominate the horizon.

Adventure Activity: Whitewater Rafting

• Safety First: Upon arrival, participate in a comprehensive safety briefing from experienced rafting guides
• River Stats: Navigate a thrilling 13-kilometer stretch of the Tongariro River
• Difficulty Level: Grade 3 rapids—perfect for first-time rafters, offering excitement without extreme danger
• Natural Surroundings:
  • Native bush ecosystems
  • Pine forest landscapes
  • Dramatic volcanic cliff formations
• Wildlife Spotting: Chance to observe the elusive Whio (New Zealand blue duck)—an endangered species that nests along the river banks
• Post-Adventure: Return to base to dry off and view action photos capturing your rafting experience

Afternoon

After your rafting adventure, travel to your accommodation for rest and relaxation.

Accommodation

Alpine Chalets—comfortable mountain lodging nestled within Tongariro National Park

Meals Included

• Breakfast
• Lunch

What to Bring

• Quick-dry clothing
• Change of clothes
• Waterproof camera (optional)
• Sunscreen
• Water bottle

Tongariro National Park is not only a place of extraordinary natural beauty but also holds deep cultural significance to local Māori people. The park’s three mountains are considered tapu (sacred).

Limber up for one of New Zealand’s most spectacular adventures – the legendary Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Widely regarded as one of the world’s premier single-day hikes, this 19 km journey takes you across a magnificent volcanic landscape featuring dramatic peaks, ancient craters, and stunning turquoise lakes that will create unforgettable memories and photo opportunities.

The Crossing Experience

• Distance: 19 km traverse
• Duration: 6-8 hours (average)
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
• Availability: Year-round (winter requires alpine equipment and guide at additional cost)
• Weather Advisory: The crossing is subject to weather conditions – alternative activities are available if the main track is closed

Accommodation

Alpine Chalets – perfect for relaxing after your adventurous day

Meals

• Included: Breakfast
• For the hike: Pack your own lunch, plenty of snacks and sufficient water

Included Activities

• Tongariro Alpine Crossing transfers (to/from trailheads)

Free Alternative Activities

• Taranaki Falls walk – beautiful forest and waterfall views
• Volcanic Centre visit – learn about the region’s fascinating geology
• Tawhai Falls – also known as “Gollum’s pool” from Lord of the Rings

After your day of exploration, unwind in the comfort of your chalet accommodations and reflect on your alpine adventure through this UNESCO World Heritage landscape.

Journey onwards to Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital city, affectionately known as the “coolest little capital in the world.” This compact city packs an impressive array of attractions into its walkable downtown district.

Highlights

• Explore the bustling Cuba Street and Courtenay Place, home to exceptional restaurants and lively bars
• Experience Wellington’s world-renowned coffee culture and café scene
• Browse the fascinating exhibits at Te Papa National Museum (optional, at your own cost)
• Sample craft beers at local breweries
• Climb Mount Victoria for stunning panoramic views of the city and harbor
• Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic waterfront and Oriental Parade

Accommodation

Haka House Wellington

Meal Information

• Included: Breakfast
• Options: Enjoy local restaurants or prepare your own meals in the hostel kitchen

Activities

Free:

• Walk along the picturesque Oriental Parade
• Hike up Mount Victoria for spectacular city and harbor views
• Try your hand at traditional Gumboot (welly) throwing

Optional Paid:

• Visit Te Papa National Museum, New Zealand’s innovative national museum