Morning: Wairere Boulders Nature Reserve

After breakfast, we’ll journey to the remarkable Wairere Boulders Nature Reserve, a unique farm set within native bush. This extraordinary site features massive basalt (volcanic) boulders, some the size of houses. Our adventure takes us along the Boulder Loop Trail, where we’ll navigate bridges, boardwalks, and stairs, winding our way under and over these impressive geological formations along the valley floor.

Wairere Boulders Hike:

• Distance: 2 miles (3.2 kilometers)
• Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
• Elevation: 770 feet (235 meters) ascent, 770 feet (235 meters) descent

Afternoon: Waitangi Treaty Grounds & Haruru Falls

Following our morning exploration, we’ll travel east to the historic Treaty Grounds at Waitangi. Here, we’ll embark on a scenic hike along the lush, bush-covered banks of the Waitangi River leading to Haruru Falls. A highlight of this walk is the boardwalk section that takes us through the heart of a mature mangrove forest. As we approach the end of our journey, the thunderous roar of Haruru Falls signals our arrival at this impressive natural landmark.

Haruru Falls Hike:

• Distance: 3 miles (4.8 kilometers)
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours
• Elevation: 330 feet (100 meters) ascent, 330 feet (100 meters) descent

Evening: Paihia, Bay of Islands

Later, we’ll arrive in Paihia, often called the “Jewel of the Bay of Islands.” This vibrant seaside town boasts golden sand beaches and serves as our base for the night.

Accommodation: Kingsgate Auto Lodge, Paihia
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Morning Adventure

We’ll begin our day with a water taxi from Paihia to Deep Water Cove. From here, we’ll embark on a spectacular ridgeline hike through the Manawahuna Scenic Reserve to Cape Brett. This elevated trail offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Bay of Islands throughout your journey.

What You’ll Experience

• Magnificent Views: Enjoy stunning vistas from the ridge tops
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for dolphins and seals from your cliff-top vantage point
• Cultural Significance: Cross mountains sacred to the local Iwi (Maori tribe)
• Polynesian Triangle: Visit Rakaumangamanga, one of the three points of the Polynesian Triangle (along with Hawaii and Rapanui)

Afternoon Return

After reaching Cape Brett, a water taxi will collect us for a scenic cruise back to Paihia.

Accommodation

Ocean Resort Hotel, Tutukaka

Meals Included

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Hike Details

• Distance: 3 miles (5 kilometers)
• Duration: 3-4 hours
• Elevation Change: 1,550 feet (473 meters) ascent, 1,550 feet (473 meters) descent

Morning

After a hearty breakfast, we’ll begin our day with an invigorating early morning walk to stretch our legs before the main adventure.

Poor Knights Islands Cruise

We’ll then board our purpose-built vessel for an unforgettable journey to the Poor Knights Islands, a remarkable cluster of islets renowned for their extraordinary biodiversity both above and below the water.

Wildlife Spotting

During our crossing, keep watch for:

• Flocks of petrels
• Shearwaters
• Gannets and other shorebirds that nest almost exclusively on these protected islands

Marine Reserve Exploration

The Poor Knights Islands form New Zealand’s second oldest marine reserve, creating a thriving sub-tropical environment that serves as a vital conservation area. Throughout your visit, you may encounter:

• Whales
• Dolphins
• Orca
• Countless colorful fish species that patrol these protected waters

Historical Highlights

Our journey includes:

• A visit to the world’s largest sea cave
• Fascinating stories about the islands’ rich history, including their ancient Māori occupation

Personal Adventure Time

Our guides will provide options for you to explore this underwater paradise at your own pace:

• Snorkeling equipment to discover the vibrant marine life below the surface
• Kayaks to paddle around the impressive rock formations and hidden coves

Evening

Return to our comfortable accommodations where you can relax and share stories of your day’s adventures over dinner.

Accommodation: Ocean Resort Hotel, Tutukaka
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Morning Journey

We’ll begin our day following the picturesque coastal road south, winding alongside tree-lined white sand beaches until we reach Waipu. This charming village boasts a rich Scottish heritage dating back to the 1850s, offering a glimpse into New Zealand’s colonial history.

Mangawhai Heads Coastal Walk

From Waipu, we’ll continue to Mangawhai Heads for one of New Zealand’s most spectacular coastal cliff-top walks. This breathtaking trail features:

• Panoramic views of the stunning Northland coastline
• Shaded paths through native bush
• Ancient pohutukawa trees (New Zealand’s iconic Christmas tree)
• A return journey along pristine beach shoreline

Afternoon Return

After lunch, we’ll make our way south from Mangawhai Heads toward Auckland, concluding our 5-day Northland Adventure.

Details

• Accommodation: Sudima Hotel, Auckland
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
• Hiking Distance: 3 miles (5 kilometers)
• Duration: 3 hours
• Elevation: 130 feet (40 meters) ascent, 130 feet (40 meters) descent

This marks the end of our 5-day Northland Adventure as we return to Auckland.

Auckland, the “City of Sails,” stretches across a narrow isthmus between the sparkling waters of the Waitemata and Manukau Harbours. Home to nearly a third of New Zealand’s population and the world’s largest Polynesian community, this vibrant, multicultural city offers diverse experiences all within 30 minutes of the city center.

Explore Natural Landmarks

The region features 48 volcanic cones that provide excellent viewing points. Rangitoto Island, Auckland’s most iconic natural landmark, is easily accessible just off the coast and recognized by its distinctive symmetrical cone.

City Highlights

The Sky Tower stands as New Zealand’s tallest man-made structure at 1,076 feet (328 meters), offering panoramic views extending up to 50 miles (80 kilometers) in every direction.

For Film Enthusiasts

Movie fans can spend the day visiting The Shire in Middle Earth, the remarkably realistic fantasy setting created for “The Hobbit” and “Lord of The Rings” movie trilogies.

Your guides are available to recommend their favorite local spots and provide directions to help you make the most of your free day in Auckland.

Accommodation: Sudima Hotel, Auckland
Meals: No meals included

Morning Departure

We’ll pick you up from your hotel and drive south from Auckland, leaving the city behind as we head to the charming township of Te Aroha. This historic spa town is one of New Zealand’s premier tourist destinations, famous for its natural hot soda waters and the unique Mokena geyser.

Wairere Falls Hike

Today’s adventure takes you on a spectacular hike through native bush:

• Trail winds among ancient tree roots and moss-covered rocks
• Cross several bridged river crossings
• Reach a viewing platform at the base of the magnificent Wairere Falls
• Experience New Zealand’s highest waterfall on the Okauia fault line

Hiking Details:

• Distance: 3.8 miles (6 kilometers)
• Duration: 3-4 hours
• Elevation: 1,250 feet (380 meters) ascent and descent

Afternoon Journey to Rotorua

After our hike, we’ll continue to Rotorua, widely recognized as:

• The heartland of New Zealand’s Māori culture
• The spiritual home of New Zealand’s tangata whenua (original people of the land)

Evening Accommodation

Sudima Hotel, Rotorua

Included Meals

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Note: For guests joining the 5-day North Island Volcanic Adventure starting today in Auckland, please note that breakfast is not included on this first day.

Morning: Rainbow Mountain & Okere Falls

Start your day with a hike up Rainbow Mountain (Maungakakaramea), named for its uniquely colored soil. Our trail winds through native forest past a stunning crater lake, rewarding you with panoramic views across the volcanic plateau.

Rainbow Mountain Hike:

• Distance: 3 miles (5 kilometers)
• Duration: 3 hours
• Elevation: 1,115 feet (340 meters) ascent and descent

Next, we’ll visit Okere Falls for a short hike along viewing platforms overlooking magnificent waterfalls. If timing is right, we might catch sight of white water rafters navigating the Kaituna River.

Okere Falls Hike:

• Distance: 1.6 miles (2.4 kilometers)
• Duration: 1 hour
• Elevation: 205 feet (63 meters) ascent and descent

Alternative Option: For those preferring a rest day, enjoy the local mineral spas or explore Rotorua at your leisure.

Afternoon & Evening: Māori Culture & Geothermal Wonders

After regrouping, we’ll visit Te Puia, home to the famous Te Whakarewarewa geothermal valley. Marvel at this dramatic landscape of:

• Gushing waters
• Steaming vents
• Boiling mud pools
• Impressive geysers

Tonight features a cultural performance by members of the Te Arawa tribe followed by a traditional hangi feast. This traditional cooking method involves wrapping food and burying it to cook over hot stones in the earth—a healthy, steam-like process that creates wonderfully flavorful dishes.

Accommodation

Sudima Hotel, Rotorua

Meals Included

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Morning: Huka Falls Hike

We journey south from Rotorua today to experience the magnificent Huka Falls. Following the trail along the Waikato River (New Zealand’s longest), we’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the thundering falls. There may even be an opportunity to soak in some natural hot springs along the way. Our route continues along the shores of Lake Taupo—an enormous volcanic caldera formed by one of the world’s largest eruptions in the last 70,000 years.

Huka Falls Hike Details:

• Distance: 2 miles (3 kilometers)
• Duration: 1 hour
• Elevation: 65 feet (20 meters) ascent, 65 feet (20 meters) descent

Afternoon: Tongariro River Cycling

After arriving in Turangi and enjoying lunch, we’ll embark on a cycling adventure along a loop track that winds through beautiful native bushland, farmland, and alongside the famous Tongariro River—New Zealand’s premier trout fishing destination. This well-marked, tree-covered trail offers ever-changing scenery and excellent opportunities to spot native birdlife, including the rare Whio (Blue Duck) that makes its home along the riverbanks.

Cycling Details:

• Distance: 9.3 miles (15 kilometers)
• Duration: 1.5-2 hours
• Elevation: 130 feet (40 meters)

Evening Accommodation

Tonight, we’ll stay at the charming Creel Lodge, situated on the banks of the Tongariro River.

Accommodation: Creel Lodge, Turangi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Explore New Zealand’s Oldest National Park

Just south of Turangi lies Tongariro National Park, New Zealand’s oldest national park and the fifth oldest in the world. This breathtaking landscape features three magnificent volcanoes: Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu.

Hiking Options

Standard Hikes

Experience the beauty of the park with two stunning hikes:

• Taranaki Falls Trail
  • 3.7 miles (6 kilometers)
  • 2 hours duration
  • 393 feet (120 meters) elevation gain/loss
  • Culminates at a spectacular 65-foot (20-meter) waterfall
• Silica Rapids Trail
  • 4.3 miles (7 kilometers)
  • 2-3 hours duration
  • 721 feet (220 meters) elevation gain/loss
  • Features creamy white terraced rapids

Both hikes showcase diverse ecosystems from native beech forest to sub-alpine shrublands, with breathtaking viewpoints.

Advanced Option: Tongariro Alpine Crossing

For more experienced hikers, we offer the legendary Tongariro Alpine Crossing:

• 12 miles (20 kilometers)
• 7-8 hours duration
• 3,280 feet (1,000 meters) elevation gain and loss
• Features emerald lakes, cold mountain springs, lava flows, active craters, and steam vents

Note: This option must be confirmed at booking and increases the adventure to a Level 4 on our Activity Level scale. Winter conditions (May-September) may affect availability.

Evening Relaxation

After your day of hiking, soak in natural thermal springs to soothe tired muscles. We’ll gather for a celebratory dinner on our final night together.

Accommodation: Creel Lodge, Turangi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Morning Adventure: Waitomo Caves

For our final day together, we’ll explore the spectacular Waitomo Caves, offering two incredible options:

Option 1: Underground Black Water Rafting

• Gear provided: Wetsuit, helmet, headlamp, and rubber tube
• Experience floating down a subterranean stream
• Navigate exciting waterfall slides
• Witness magical glowworms illuminating the limestone ceiling when headlamps are turned off
• Warm up afterward with hot showers and soup

Option 2: Guided Walking Tour

• Explore the stunning Ruakuri cave system on foot
• Learn about the geological significance of the region
• Perfect for those preferring a drier underground experience

Afternoon Return to Auckland

After our underground adventure, we’ll journey back to Auckland where your trip concludes.

• Airport transfer provided for evening flights
• Connections available for those continuing to our South Island trips

Accommodation: Not applicable
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch