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North Island Volcanic Adventure

Explore volcanic landscapes as you hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Soak in hot pools, hike by geysers and boiling mud pools, and explore caves in search of mystical glowworms on this short, action-packed North Island adventure.

Start - End: Auckland - Auckland

Total trip: 5 days

Average group size: 12 people

Level: 3-4

from NZD 7,499/pp including taxes and fees

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Explore New Zealand's otherworldly volcanic landscapes on our North Island Volcanic Adventure.

The North Island of New Zealand is packed to the brim with incredible, diverse landscapes, and there's no better way to experience its contrasts than on our North Island Volcanic Adventure. Discover for yourself as you hike the renowned Tongariro Alpine Crossing, bike along river trails, and walk through otherworldly caves lit by the mysterious glowworm. With two local guides and every detail taken care of, you'll learn about the intimate Maori culture and the geothermal wonderlands of the Central Plateau without a worry in the world. Our year-round North Island Volcanic Adventure is the perfect addition to any of our South Island trips. Starting and finishing in Auckland, all you'll need to do is walk off the plane, and you'll be off on a hiking tour of a lifetime!

Tongariro National Park

Traverse an other-worldly volcanic plateau guided by locals

Rotorua

Discover a geothermal wonderland alive with Māori cultural and spiritual significance

Rotorua

Hear the stories and legends passed down through generations of local Māori guides

Trip Highlights

Hiking

Lakes around Rotorua

Surrounded by native bush and steeped in Māori myth, Rotorua’s lakes are places where adventure meets ancient storytelling.

Hiking

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a one-of-a-kind hike — think rugged volcanic landscapes, emerald lakes, and sweeping views that make every step worth it.

Plus...

Explore Waitomo Caves by foot or tubing

A magical mix of drifting through dark underground rivers, floating past glowworms, and soaking up the raw, otherworldly beauty all around you.

Plus...

Maori culture

You'll step into a world of rich stories, powerful traditions, and warm hospitality that connects you to the land and its people.

Day by day trip

Explore each day of your lifechanging adventure through New Zealand's North Island's volcanic landscapes.

Click the map below to explore.

Day 1

Arrive, Hike to Putaruru Blue Springs, Visit Te Puia

Leaving the city of Auckland behind us, we head south to where you can stretch your legs on a peaceful walk alongside the crystal clear waters of the Putāruru Blue Springs, one of New Zealand’s purest water sources. The trail winds through lush farmland and native bush leading to vivid turquoise pools and bubbling springs.

Afterwards, we'll drive to Rotorua, considered the heartland of New Zealand's Maori culture and the spiritual home of New Zealand's tangata whenua (original people of the land).

Tonight, we visit Te Puia, home to the dramatic Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley where steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and powerful geysers bring the landscape to life. As evening falls, you’ll enjoy a cultural performance by members of the local Te Arawa tribe before sharing a traditional hāngī feast. Cooked slowly beneath the earth over heated stones, this time honored Māori cooking method creates beautifully tender food infused with rich, smoky flavor.
Accommodation: Sudima Hotel, Rotorua
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Blue Springs Hike: 5.84 miles (9.4 kilometers), 1.5-2 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 13 feet (4 meters) ascent, 46 feet (14 meters) descent

Day 2

Hike Blue Lakes, Jet Boat to Huka Falls

This morning you’ll follow a winding trail through one of the North Island’s most peaceful pockets of native forest as you make your way to the Blue Lakes. The hike is gentle and rewarding and the well formed tracks weaves alongside streams so clear you can see every stone beneath the surface. Beneath towering trees and native birdsong overhead, you’ll discover calm blue lakes tucked deep in the forest, their colors shifting with the light.

After lunch, we change gears for an exhilarating jet boat ride along the Waikato River to the spectacular Huka Falls. Feel the spray on your face as the boat powers through narrow river canyons and across crystal clear water before arriving at the falls, where more than 58,000 gallons of water thunder through a dramatic volcanic gorge every second. It’s a highlight of this trip, a loved New Zealand activity, and a whole lot of fun! Tonight, your accommodation is on the peaceful banks of the Tongariro River, with the sound of flowing water right outside your door.
Accommodation: Creel Lodge, Turangi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Blue Lakes Hike: 3.4 miles (5.5 kilometers), 1-2 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 643 feet (196 meters) ascent, 643 feet (196 meters) descent

Day 3

Hike Tongariro National Park, soak in hot pools

Just south of Tūrangi rise the three great volcanoes of Tongariro National Park: Tongariro, Ngāuruhoe, and Ruapehu. New Zealand’s oldest national park, and the fifth oldest in the world, this remarkable landscape is shaped by fire, ice, and time.

Today, we’ll explore the lower slopes of Mount Ruapehu on hikes to Taranaki Falls and the Silica Rapids. Wander through native beech forest and open alpine shrublands before arriving at two very different volcanic wonders: the 65 foot (20 meter) Taranaki Falls plunging over an ancient lava flow, and the Silica Rapids, where mineral rich water tumbles over creamy white terraces.

For experienced hikers, there’s the option to tackle the legendary Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This challenging full day hike traverses dramatic volcanic terrain dotted with emerald lakes, steaming vents, lava fields, and active craters. It’s raw, rugged, and unlike anywhere else in New Zealand. During winter months, from May through September, alpine conditions can bring snow and ice, and if the weather isn’t suitable for the crossing, the group will instead enjoy the Taranaki Falls and Silica Rapids hikes together. This option must be confirmed at the time of booking.

Tonight, ease tired legs in natural thermal springs before gathering for a celebratory dinner together!
Accommodation: Creel Lodge, Turangi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tongariro Crossing Hike: 12 miles (20 kilometers), 7-8 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 3,280 feet (1,000 meters) ascent, 3,280 feet (1,000 meters) descent
Note: Choosing the Tongariro Crossing option increases this adventure to a Level 4 on our Activity Level scale.

Taranaki Falls Hike: 3.7 miles (6 kilometers), 2 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 393 feet (120 meters) ascent, descent

Silica Rapids Hike: 4.3 miles (7 kilometers), 2-3 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 721 feet (220 meters) ascent, 721 feet (220 meters) descent

Day 4

Visit Waitomo Caves

Today, we’ll make our way to the world-famous Waitomo Caves, a natural limestone formation known for its magical glowworms. You have a choice of two ways to experience the caves alongside specialist guides: a walk (dry option), or a high adrenaline black water rafting experience (wet option).

Our team can help you choose the option that feels right for you if you’re not sure. Whichever experience you opt for, you’ll have the chance to see thousands of glowworms sparkling like stars above you. The walking option takes you through Ruakuri Cave where you’ll learn about the geological significance of the area. On the rafting option, you’ll be fitted with a wetsuit, boots, and helmet, then given an inflatable tube to float through the cave system and jump down underground waterfalls. The glow worm viewing part of the experience for both options is majestic, peaceful, and is sure to be an experience you’ll never forget.

You’ll have some free time to freshen up before we come together for dinner and reflect on the magic of our caving experience.
Accommodation: Hidden Lake Hotel, Cambridge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Note: It is important to let our team know if you have any medical conditions or fears of dark or enclosed spaces.

Day 5

Visit Sanctuary Mountain, depart for home

Your final day ends on a high with a visit to Sanctuary Mountain, an ancient eco-sanctuary alive with towering native trees, lush ferns, birdsong, and regenerating forest.

We’ll take a guided walk, learning about the land’s history, native flora, and wildlife while keeping watch for kākā, tūī, and fantail birds around us. You can also climb the 52-foot (16-meter) viewing tower for sweeping views of the forest canopy.

We’ll enjoy a picnic lunch together and then continue to Auckland for hotel or airport drop-off.

We’ll share a group goodbye, until we meet again for our next adventure!
Accommodation: Not applicable
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Tongariro National Park Hike options

Option A: Taranaki Falls & Silica Rapids

The Taranaki Falls and Silica Rapids hikes showcase a variety of flora from native beech forest to sub-alpine shrublands, each culminating with a spectacular view; Taranaki Falls is 20 meters (65 feet) high and Silica Rapids has water cascading down a series of creamy white terraces.

Option B: Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a full-day hike that is challenging and unforgettable! The trail takes you through arid volcanic terrain that includes emerald lakes, cold mountain springs, lava flows, active craters, and steam vents – it’s unlike anything else in New Zealand. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a more challenging hike in winter (from May until October) with alpine conditions such as snow and ice.

This trip includes:

4 nights’ accommodation
4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners
Our own highly experienced guides, driver, and chef - with you from start to finish
Industry leading Guest-to-Guide ratio (averaging 6:1)
All activities outlined in the itinerary
Delicious and nurtitous snacks to keep you fueled
All necessary equipment (well-maintained and safe) for activities
Hiking poles for the duration of the trip
Transportation in our air-conditioned vans - safe, clean, modern, and comfortable!
Your queries answered by our knowledgeable Customer Care Team - only a call, chat, or email away
You’re “trip ready” with our Customer Care Team’s calls prior to your trip
“My Account” - your own online space with everything required for your adventure

FAQs

Where does the trip start?

On the first morning of the trip, please meet us in the lobby at the Sudima Auckland City Hotel in Auckland central at 8:15am, our designated departure point for all guests on your trip. Please make your own arrangements to get there. You are welcome to book your pre-trip stay at this hotel directly or any other hotel in Auckland - that's up to you. Be prepared on the day with your daypack and hiking boots, ready for your first day of adventures!

Where does the trip end?

Your trip ends with a drop-off at either the Auckland Airport (AKL) in time for flights below or the Sudima Auckland City Hotel in the late afternoon/early evening.

What flights would you recommend?

Arrival: We recommend arriving in Auckland the day before your trip begins, or earlier, to accommodate potential flight delays and give you time to explore the city before your adventure starts.

Departure: Flying out on the last day of the trip, we recommend departing from Auckland after 5pm domestic and 6pm international flight departures. Earlier flight times will require a separate transfer booked at your own expense.

What accommodations do we stay at on this trip?

We have selected the accommodations on your trip for their stunning setting, unique character, style and level of comfort. We prefer to stay in quaint, comfortable resorts, lodges and apartments and you may be sharing a two bedroom apartment or bathroom with other group members at some stage. Some places are fairly basic – and the true Kiwi experience makes it all worthwhile.

Where you’ll be staying each night is detailed on the trip itinerary above. Occasionally, for operational reasons, we may stay somewhere different, which will always be a similar standard and just as comfortable.

There are self-service laundry facilities at most locations, however we recommend bringing enough clothing to not have to do laundry during your trip.

How fit do I need to be for this trip?

This is one of our more adventurous trips, so a solid level of fitness is recommended. Most hikes typically take between three to six hours, though some days may involve more or less hiking depending on the itinerary. While it’s not our most physically demanding trip, hikes may inclue rock scrambling, river crossings, and off trail adventures.

Please head to our Fitness Guide for great tips on how to prepare along with a workout plan!

What Our Guests Say

Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full

By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. This offer is only valid for reservations where the trip is no sooner than 180 days from the departure date at time of booking.

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance, you can find details here.

*Terms and conditions apply - read more here.

Travel in Complete Comfort

Getting from one breathtaking destination to the next in New Zealand means road travel is essential. That’s why having comfortable, reliable transport plays a big role in making your adventure vacation enjoyable.

We own and operate our very own fleet of medium-sized coaches — perfectly suited for New Zealand’s unique roads. They’re ideal for accessing the country’s iconic highlights and venturing off the beaten track to the lesser-known places most travelers miss.

So sit back, relax, and let us take the wheel. Your New Zealand adventure is calling — and we’ll make sure you travel in comfort and style.

Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance, you can find details here.

*Terms and conditions apply - read more here.

Photos from the North Island Volcanic Adventure Trip

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Why Travel With Us

A love of adventure, born in New Zealand

Our passion for exploration is rooted in a strong connection to the natural beauty of our home, New Zealand, and the drive to venture beyond its shores to discover a world different to our own.

Life-changing, rewarding experiences in breathtaking places

We believe the best journeys don’t just take you places, they inspire you and ignite your spirit. Our unique and thoughtfully designed itineraries ensure you'll experience the very best of each destination.

Expert guides, deep local connections

Feel the heart and soul of each place you visit with our local people on the ground and knowledgeable guides, who take great care to ensure a truly authentic and immersive experience. This is the real deal.

Flexible, personalized experiences

We take the time to get to know you to ensure you have the very best experience on our trips. Our small group adventures are big on flexibility. No matter what your version of "active" is, we have options on each trip to suit every individual.

We welcome all adventurers

Traveling solo, as a pair, or as part of a group? No worries, you'll be comfortable on our trips. Every trip is personalized with care by our team so everyone feels supported and free to enjoy their unforgettable adventure.

All-inclusive

Imagine a vacation that's fully guided, and everything is taken care of and included in the trip price — all accommodations, activities, transport on-trip, most meals, and more! Effortless and value-packed.

Getting to New Zealand

New Zealand might feel like a world away, but it’s closer than you think — just a 12-hour direct flight from the Pacific Coast of North America. Major airlines, including Air New Zealand (our national carrier), offer non-stop flights to Auckland on the North Island and Christchurch on the South Island from cities like New York, Chicago, Houston, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Honolulu, and Vancouver.

Need a hand with your travel plans? Like to arrange a tropical stopover? Our trusted partners atFuzion Travelare here to help make getting to and from New Zealand hassle-free and easy.