
Explore New Zealand's northern heartland - from the secluded beaches of the coast to the volcanic craters and thermal features of the central plateau. Adventure activities abound - sea kayaking & snorkelling on our Bay of Islands adventure cruise, underground black water rafting at Waitomo, bungee and jet boating at Taupo and mountain biking and kayaking in Nelson. The perfect combination of sights and activities on this Northern tour.
Day 1: Auckland - Bay of Islands
We leave Auckland and drive north through fantastic scenery towards
New Zealand 's winterless north. We cross lush green farmland and make a stop
at the Kauri forests to see the giant ancient trees. Upon arrival we make our
way to the port to board our overnight cruise boat. On board we find a games
room, bar and full fun facilities. The boat is equipped with kayaks, snorkelling
gear and other equipment for all the planned stops at the islands on this 24
hour tour. Sit back and enjoy one of your trip highlights. This boat tour will
be substituted May - Oct with another boat tour of equivalent value, quality
and experience which may or may not be overnight depending on conditions.
(Cruise Accommodation)
Day 2: Bay of Islands
Today we have a host of available activities including kayaking,
a boat trip to the islands or just relaxing on the boat.
(Backpacker / Cabin Accommodation)
Day 3: Bay of Islands - Waitomo
We have an early start and make our way south to Waitomo via
Auckland . We cross the harbour bridge and get a great view of the city
of sails. Here we stop for lunch and then carry on through to Waitomo
which is famous for its limestone caves, glow worms and black water rafting.
(Backpacker / Cabin Accommodation)
Day 4: Waitomo - Rotorua
Today we have some great choices. You can do the boat trip
and walk through the glow worm caves or go black water rafting. This
is an unforgettable trip involving hiking and descending an underground
river floating on an inner tube. The sights are fantastic and this will
be one of your highlights. After lunch we go to Rotorua to visit Whakarewarewa,
site of the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute and thermal area. See Geysers
and boiling mud pools in an amazing display of mother earth's power.
We check in to our lodging and you have the option of a Maori Hangi dinner
and concert for afterwards.
(Backpacker / Cabin Accommodation)
Day 5: Rotorua - Taupo - Mt Ruapehu
We head to Taupo, just 1 hour away and is the north island
home of extreme sports. On the way we visit the spectacular Huka falls.
Here you can bungy, jet boat as well as do many other activities or just
relax by the world's biggest Crater Lake . We then drive on to Mt Ruapehu
to be ready for our next days activities.
(Backpacker / Cabin Accommodation)
Day 6: Mt Ruapehu
There are several options for the day. Many will want to hike
the famous Tongariro Crossing track. A good day hike which is known as
the best of its kind in New Zealand . This hike has spectacular views
of the volcanic plateau and the lakes. Those who do not go on the hike
can go mountain biking or explore the beautiful local area. During the
winter the upper hike is not available due to snow and a lower forest
hike will be offered weather permitting. Skiing and snow boarding plus
other local sights are available during winter months.
(Backpacker / Cabin Accommodation)
Day 7: Mt Ruapehu - Wellington
We leave National Park smartly and head through the central
north island to the capital city Wellington . Here you can see the fantastic
new museum on New Zealand called Te Papa. Later we will have dinner out
on the town overlooking the bay.
(Backpacker / Cabin Accommodation)
Day 8: Wellington - Nelson via ferry
We cross to the south island on the inter island ferry and
enjoy the fantastic scenery of the Marlborough Sound. From Picton on
the other side we drive to Nelson, heart of the wine producing area.
Nelson is a very pleasant sunny place and home of some of the most beautiful
sea kayaking in the world. We spend the afternoon exploring the town.
(Backpacker / Cabin Accommodation)
Day 9: Nelson
Today there is a huge variety of activities to choose from
including kayaking, boating, sailing, mountain biking or just relaxing
in town or on the beach. Nelson is very picturesque and is a delight
to visit.
(Backpacker / Cabin Accommodation)
Day 10: Nelson - Christchurch
We drive to Christchurch down the rugged Kaikoura coastline
with its great views and marine life. Tonight it's our farewell dinner
and time to say goodbye to all our new friends.