This morning, we head south to Waitomo, famous for its glowworm-lit limestone caves. Choose between a peaceful boat ride through the caves or an adrenaline-pumping abseiling and rock-climbing adventure. Either way, it’s a magical start to your trip!

Next, we continue to Rotorua—New Zealand’s geothermal capital and a hub for Māori culture. We’ll arrive in the early evening and check into our hotel, which features a spa, pool, and unlimited Wi-Fi (a rare treat in NZ!).

Accommodation: Distinction Rotorua or similar
Meal options: Local eateries
Optional activities: Waitomo cave tours

Today is all about the lakes! After breakfast, we’ll pass the stunning Blue and Green Lakes en route to Lake Tarawera, with Mt. Tarawera towering in the distance. Hop on an aqua taxi to Te Rata Bay, home to Hot Water Beach (not to be confused with the one near Hahei), where a natural hot spring flows into the lake.

Hikers can enjoy a quick soak before tackling the 15km Tarawera Trail (approx. 4.5–5 hours) with breathtaking views. Prefer to relax? Lounge on the warm sands and soak in the steamy waters before we return to Rotorua.

In the afternoon, choose from white water rafting on the Kaituna River, ziplining through native forest, or unwinding at a geothermal spa. For a free geothermal experience, visit Kuirau Park to see bubbling mud pools and steaming lakes.

Accommodation: Distinction Rotorua or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Included activity: Aqua taxi to Hot Water Beach
Free activities: Tarawera Trail hike, Kuirau Park
Optional activities: Ziplining, rafting, Hell’s Gate geothermal spa

After a few days in Rotorua, it’s time to slow down and connect with authentic Māori culture. After lunch, we travel to Lake Aniwhenua and the welcoming Kohutapu Lodge, owned by a local Māori family deeply committed to preserving their heritage and supporting the community.

We’ll be welcomed onto tribal lands, then head to the lodge to watch the preparation of a traditional ground-cooked ‘hangi.’ Enjoy afternoon tea with fresh fried bread, learn weaving and haka, and feast on what might be the best meal of your trip.

Exclusive experiences include:

• Guided welcome to tribal lands and sacred Māori rock carvings
• Intro to Murupara’s people, history, and challenges
• Afternoon tea and storytelling
• Mau Rakau (stick games), weaving, and haka lessons
• Traditional hangi buffet dinner & dessert
• Lakeside cabin accommodation

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

After breakfast, we bid farewell to our hosts and head to Kerosene Creek—a naturally heated river perfect for a morning soak. Then it’s off to Taupo to see Australasia’s largest lake and the roaring Huka Falls.

From there, we venture deep into the wilderness to Blue Duck Station, a remote and sustainable high-country farm nestled in Whanganui National Park. It’s like stepping into Jurassic Park! The team here is dedicated to protecting the rare Whio (blue duck) and preserving the native environment.

We’ll settle in, learn about the station’s history and conservation efforts, enjoy a home-cooked dinner, and relax around the campfire.

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

Start the day with a 4WD eco-tour through native bush to the ‘Top of the World,’ where you’ll see the majestic peaks of Mt. Ruapehu, Mt. Tongariro, and Mt. Ngauruhoe.

Later, explore the station at your own pace. Hike to the Kaiwhakauka waterfall, spot the elusive blue duck, or unwind with games and s’mores around the campfire.

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

Rise early and head to Tongariro National Park for one of the world’s best day hikes—the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This 19km trek takes you across volcanic terrain with craters, peaks, and surreal turquoise lakes.

The hike is open year-round, but winter conditions require alpine gear and a guide. If the weather doesn’t permit the Crossing, we’ll explore other scenic trails nearby.

After the hike, unwind with a soak in the outdoor spa at our accommodation.

Accommodation: The Park Hotel or similar
Meals included: Continental breakfast
Included: Transfers to/from the Crossing
Optional activities: Winter gear rental, expert mountaineer guide

After breakfast, we head to Wellington—New Zealand’s vibrant capital. We recommend starting with a visit to the Te Papa National Museum (own cost), then explore the city your way:

• Grab a craft beer at a local brewery
• Hike Mt. Victoria for panoramic views
• Stroll the waterfront
• Sip what might be the best coffee in New Zealand (Wellington takes its coffee seriously!)

Accommodation: Ibis Wellington or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Free activities: Oriental Parade walk, Mt. Victoria hike
Optional activities: Te Papa Museum

Your adventure wraps up today. Say goodbye (or “see you soon”) to your travel mates and head off on your next journey. We hope you had an unforgettable time—and that your Stray crew becomes lifelong friends!

Meals included: Breakfast