This morning we’ll travel south to Waitomo, famous for its incredible limestone caves illuminated by thousands of glowworms. You can choose to drift through the caves on a boat under a galaxy of glowworms, or gear up for an adventure with abseiling and climbing through the caves — either way, it’s a magical start to your trip!

We’ll then continue on to Rotorua, the North Island’s geothermal hotspot and cultural heart of Māori heritage. We’ll arrive in the early evening and check into our hotel — complete with a spa, swimming pool, and unlimited Wi-Fi (a rare treat in New Zealand!).

Accommodation: Distinction Rotorua or similar
Meal options: Local eateries
Optional paid activities: Waitomo Cave experiences

Today it’s all about the roto (Māori for “lake”). After breakfast, we’ll pass the colorful Blue and Green Lakes en route to Lake Tarawera, where the impressive Mt. Tarawera dominates the skyline. From there, we’ll take an aqua taxi to Te Rata Bay, home to Hot Water Beach (not the one near Hahei), where natural thermal springs heat the lake water.

Hikers can take a quick soak before tackling the 15 km Tarawera Trail (4.5–5 hours), offering breathtaking views over Lakes Rotomahana and Tarawera. For a more relaxed morning, stay and soak in the geothermal waters before returning to Rotorua after lunch.

This afternoon, you can go white-water rafting on the Kaituna River, ziplining, zorbing, or simply unwind at a local geothermal spa. For a free geothermal experience, visit Kuirau Park to see bubbling mud pools and steaming vents.

Accommodation: Distinction Rotorua or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Included activity: Water taxi to Te Rata Bay Hot Water Beach
Free activities: Tarawera Trail hike, Kuirau Park
Optional paid activities: Ziplining, white-water rafting, zorbing

After a few days in Rotorua, it’s time to slow down and experience authentic New Zealand culture. After lunch, we’ll head to Lake Aniwhenua and the incredible Kohutapu Lodge, owned by a local Māori family passionate about their heritage and community.

We’ll be welcomed onto tribal land before visiting the lodge to watch the preparation of a traditional ground-cooked hangi. Enjoy afternoon tea with fresh fried bread, learn about Māori weaving and haka, and then sit down to feast on your freshly prepared hangi dinner — quite possibly the best meal you’ll have in New Zealand!

Exclusive experience includes:

• Welcome to tribal lands and guided tour of sacred Māori rock carvings
• Introduction to Murupara’s people, history, and challenges
• Afternoon tea
• Mau Rakau (Māori stick games)
• Weaving and haka lessons
• Storytelling around the fire pit
• 1-night stay at lakeside Kohutapu Lodge
• Full traditional hangi dinner & dessert
• Continental breakfast

Accommodation: Scenic lakefront cabins
Meals included: Breakfast, traditional hangi dinner & dessert
Free activities: Māori rock carvings, volleyball

After breakfast, we’ll say farewell to our gracious hosts and stop at Kerosene Creek, a naturally hot river — the perfect place for a morning soak. Then we’ll travel to Taupo to see Australasia’s largest lake and the powerful Huka Falls before heading inland to Blue Duck Station for a unique off-the-grid experience.

Blue Duck Station is one of New Zealand’s most sustainable high-country sheep and cattle farms. Surrounded by the lush Whanganui National Park, it feels like stepping into Jurassic Park! The team here is dedicated to protecting the native environment and its rare namesake, the blue duck (whio).

After settling in, learn about station life and local conservation efforts before sharing a home-cooked dinner around the campfire.

Accommodation: Country station lodge
Meals included: Continental breakfast, dinner
Free activities: Huka Falls, Spa Park walk (Taupo)
Optional paid activities: Skydiving or bungee jumping in Taupo

Hop in a 4WD vehicle and ride through native bush to the “Top of the World,” where you’ll see Mount Ruapehu, Mount Tongariro, and Mount Ngauruhoe. Learn about the station’s history, enjoy sweeping views, and spend the afternoon exploring at your own pace.

Hike to the Kaiwhakauka Waterfall, spot rare blue ducks, or relax by the fire in the evening — maybe even make s’mores!

Accommodation: Country station lodge
Meals included: Continental breakfast, lunch & dinner
Included activity: 4WD farm eco-tour
Free activities: Waterfall hike, glowworm viewing

We’ll start early today to head to Tongariro National Park for one of the world’s greatest one-day hikes — the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This 19 km trek features dramatic volcanic peaks, craters, and striking turquoise lakes you’ll never forget.

The hike is open year-round (winter requires alpine gear and a guide) but is always weather-dependent. If conditions prevent the Crossing, we’ll enjoy other stunning hikes in the park.

This evening, relax with a soak in the outdoor spa at your accommodation.

Accommodation: The Park Hotel or similar
Meals included: Continental breakfast
Included: Transfers for Tongariro Crossing
Optional paid activities: Winter gear rental, guided alpine trek

After breakfast, we’ll drive south to Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city! We recommend starting with a visit to the Te Papa National Museum (own expense), then explore the city your way — enjoy a local craft beer, hike to Mt. Victoria for panoramic views, stroll along the waterfront, or indulge in what’s often called the best coffee in New Zealand.

Accommodation: Ibis Wellington or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Free activities: Walk Oriental Parade, climb Mt. Victoria
Optional paid activities: Te Papa National Museum

We’ll take an early Bluebridge Ferry across the Cook Strait to the South Island. If the weather’s good, head to the viewing deck for incredible views of the Marlborough Sounds.

Upon arrival in Picton, we’ll drive through the scenic Marlborough wine region and on to Marahau, gateway to Abel Tasman National Park. Spend the evening relaxing around the campfire and stargazing.

Accommodation: The Barn or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Meal options: Stock up on groceries for self-catering or join the optional group dinner
Free activities: Stargazing
Optional paid activities: Wine tasting

Enjoy a free day in Abel Tasman National Park. From our accommodation, you can hike directly onto the Abel Tasman Coastal Track to Anchorage Bay — no water taxi needed! The trail offers golden beaches, lush forests, and crystal-clear waters. The walk takes about four hours each way, but you can take a water taxi back if you prefer a shorter day.

Accommodation: The Barn or similar
Meals included: Continental breakfast
Free activities: Hiking, beach time, visit Cleopatra’s Pools
Optional paid activities: Kayaking, water taxi, canyoning, sailing

Today we’ll journey down the spectacular West Coast, known for its wild beaches and dense rainforests. Traveling through Buller Gorge, along a route named by Lonely Planet as one of the world’s best drives, we’ll be treated to nonstop scenery (and minimal cell reception — trust us, you won’t miss it!).

We’ll stop at the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and blowholes before continuing to Greymouth, where we’ll say goodbye to our guide and board the TranzAlpine Train to Christchurch — one of the most scenic rail journeys on earth.

After arriving, make your way to your hotel and enjoy exploring this vibrant city.

Accommodation: Scenic Cotswold Christchurch or similar
Meals included: Continental breakfast
Included activity: TranzAlpine Train experience
Free activities: Canterbury Museum, Botanic Gardens, Hagley Park

Spend your final morning exploring Christchurch. Wander the laneways to see colorful street art, browse the modern shopping precinct, enjoy a craft beer at a local pub, go punting down the Avon River, visit the Botanic Gardens, or hop aboard the historic tram to take it all in.

As our journey comes to an end, we hope you’ve had an unforgettable adventure — and that your Stray Mates friendships last a lifetime!

Meals included: Breakfast