Ultimate North Island Adventure

  • 11 Days
  • Avg Group Size: 12
  • Activity Level 3-4
    • Activity Level 3

      Those who take on our Level 3 tours are looking for more challenging hikes that will raise their heart rate.

    • Activity Level 4

      Be prepared for some serious physical activity on our Level 4 trips. The fitter you are, the more you'll enjoy it, as most hikes will be challenging.

    Read more about the Active Range

  • Trip Start: Auckland
  • Trip End: Auckland
Ultimate North Island Adventure v3

Lose track of time as you explore New Zealand's diverse North Island, from rolling green hills to the volcanic landscapes and endless coastlines on our Ultimate North Island Adventure.

The North Island of New Zealand is packed to the brim with incredible landscapes, and there's no better way to experience its dramatic contrasts than on our 11-day Ultimate North Island Adventure. Discover for yourself your favorite part of the island as you hike the renowned Tongariro Alpine Crossing, bike through redwood forests, snorkel or kayak the Poor Knights Islands and walk through otherwordly caves lit by the mysterious glowworm. With two local guides and every detail looked after, you'll learn about the intimate Maori culture and visit spiritual Kauri forests without a worry in the world. Our year-round Ultimate North Island 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 step into a hiking tour of a lifetime!

Trip Highlights

Tongariro River Trail

BikingBiking

Rotorua's lakes

HikingHiking

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

HikingHiking

Bay of Islands

HikingHiking

Pristine beaches

HikingHiking

Poor Knights Islands

Plus...

Maori culture

Plus...

Waitomo Caves

Plus...

Download Our Handy Trip Itinerary

Our Trip Itinerary contains all the exciting details you can expect to do on our trips. Get a clear picture of the adventures on this trip.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

Ultimate North Island Adventure ~ Itinerary

Trip Start: Auckland Trip End: Auckland

Download our Handy Trip itinerary

Our Trip Itinerary contains all the exciting details you can expect to do on our trips. Get a clear picture of the adventures on this trip

  • Day 1Arrive, journey north, Waipoua Forest and Footprints tour

  • Day 2Wairere Boulders, Waitangi River walk, Bay of Islands

  • Day 3Hike Cape Brett

  • Day 4Cruise Poor Knights Islands, snorkel or kayak

  • Day 5Hike Northland coastline

  • Day 6Free day in Auckland

  • Day 7Visit Te Aroha, hike to Wairere Falls Track

  • Day 8Hike Rainbow Mountain and Okere Falls, visit Te Puia

  • Day 9Hike to Huka Falls, Bike Tongariro River

  • Day 10Hike Tongariro National Park, soak in hot pools

  • Day 11Visit Waitomo Caves, depart for home

  • Day 1

    Arrive, journey north, Waipoua Forest and Footprints tour

    #60589

    Leaving Auckland city behind us, we’ll head North to the small historic boat building village of Paparoa for a picnic lunch. We’ll then continue through to the West Coast Settlement of Opononi, a harbor town made famous in the mid-1950s by the tame dolphin, Opo, who used to let children ride on his back.

    Later, after dinner, we'll head back out into the Waipoua Forest for a twilight walk, where we'll be joined by local Maori guides. It's a memorable and spiritual experience to witness the greeting of these colossal trees with spine-tingling waiata (sacred chant). We'll also visit Tane Mahuta (meaning Lord of the Forest), New Zealand's largest known living kauri tree. At a height of 168 feet (51.2 meters), and with a trunk girth of 45 feet (13.7 meters), this silent giant, with ancient limbs, seems to grasp at the stars.
    Accommodation: The Heads, Hokianga Harbour
    Meals: Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 3 hours, relaxed stroll

  • Day 2

    Wairere Boulders, Waitangi River walk, Bay of Islands

    #60590

    After breakfast, we’ll head to the Wairere Boulders Nature Reserve, a farm in the native bush home to unique house-sized basalt (volcanic) boulders. We’ll hike the Boulder Loop Trail which leads us over bridges, boardwalks and stairs, under and over the boulders along the valley floor. 

    After our excursion, we'll head east to the Treaty Grounds at Waitangi, and hike along the bush-clad banks of the Waitangi River to Haruru Falls. The journey features a boardwalk section through the heart of a mature mangrove forest. As we approach the end of the walk, the thundering roar of the Falls lets us know we're almost there.

    Later, we’ll head to the Jewel of the Bay of Islands, Paihia, a bustling seaside town with golden sand beaches.
    Accommodation: Kingsgate Auto Lodge, Paihia
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 1 mile (1.6 kilometers), 0.5 - 1 hour
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 200 feet (60 meters) ascent, 200 feet (60 meters) descent

     

  • Day 3

    Hike Cape Brett

    #60591

    This morning, we’ll take a water taxi from Paihia out to Deep Water Cove for a ridgeline hike to Cape Brett through the Manawahuna Scenic Reserve. On route, you’ll experience the Bay of Islands from the ridge tops and get magnificent views. This is a 3-4 hour hike with rewarding views of the Bay of Islands the entire way - you may even see dolphins and seals from your vantage point high up on the cliffs. The mountains that we’re crossing are very important to the local Iwi (Maori tribe). The mountain “Rakaumangamanga” is one point of the Polynesian Triangle - Hawaii and Rapanui are the other two.

    If you’re not feeling up to the hike, have a chat to our guides and they can arrange an alternative boat trip around the Bay of Islands. Later, we’ll be picked up at Cape Brett, again by water taxi for the scenic cruise back to Paihia.
    Accommodation: Ocean Resort Hotel, Tutukaka
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 3 miles (5 kilometers), 3-4 hour
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,550 feet (473 meters) ascent, 1,550 feet (473 meters) descent

     

  • Day 4

    Cruise Poor Knights Islands, snorkel or kayak

    #60592

    After breakfast, we’ll head out for an early morning walk before boarding a purpose-built boat for a cruise to the Poor Knights Islands. This small cluster of islets is home to a wealth of biodiversity both above and below the water. While you head across from the mainland, keep your eyes peeled for flocks of petrels, shearwaters, and gannets – many of these shorebirds nest almost exclusively on the islands you’ll be visiting.

    The Poor Knights is the second oldest marine reserve in New Zealand, and the sub-tropical environment is now an important conservation area for many species of marine life. Whales, dolphins, and orca can often be spotted, as well as a myriad of fish species that constantly trawl the reserve. You’ll visit the world’s largest sea cave, and hear all about the islands’ history including their occupation by ancient Māori. Our guides will then give you the chance to explore under your own steam, by providing you with either a snorkel and mask or a kayak.
    Accommodation: Ocean Resort Hotel, Tutukaka
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    If you’re a keen scuba diver, there’s an option to upgrade to diving for an additional fee, including all the necessary gear. This option must be pre-arranged. This option must be reserved at time of booking only.

  • Day 5

    Hike Northland coastline

    #60593

    This morning, we’ll follow the coastal road as it winds its way south alongside tree-lined white sand beaches to Waipu, a quaint village with a strong Scottish heritage dating back to the 1850s.

    Then we’ll make our way to Mangawhai Heads for one of the finest coastal cliff-top walks in the country. The walk offers glorious views of the Northland coastline, passing through shady bush and beneath giant old pohutukawa trees, and then returns along the beach.

    After lunch, we’ll continue south from Mangawhai Heads towards the city of Auckland.
    Accommodation: Sudima Hotel, Auckland
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

    Hiking: 3 miles (5 kilometers), 3 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 130 feet (40 meters) ascent, 130 feet (40 meters) descent

    The 5-day Northland Adventure trip ends today after we get back to Auckland.

  • Day 6

    Free day in Auckland

    #60594

    Known as the city of sails, Auckland sprawls over a narrow isthmus between the sparkling waters of the Waitemata and Manukau Harbours. Close to a third of New Zealand’s population is settled in this area, and it’s home to the largest Polynesian community in the world. Its vibrant, multi-cultural feel makes for a great city experience. Most of Auckland’s activities and attractions are within half an hour of the central city. Take in the spectacular views from natural and man-made landmarks - the region is home to 48 volcanic cones, many of which provide excellent viewing points. Rangitoto Island is arguably Auckland’s most iconic natural landmark, with its distinctive symmetrical cone and easy access just off the coast. At 1,076 feet (328 meters), the Sky Tower is the tallest man-made structure in New Zealand offering views of up to 50 miles (80 kilometers) in every direction. For movie enthusiasts, take the day to visit The Shire in Middle Earth, the ultra-realistic fantasy setting for ‘The Hobbit’ and ‘Lord of The Rings’ movie trilogies. Your guides will happily share their favorite haunts and point you in the right direction for your free day today.
    Accommodation: Sudima Hotel, Auckland
    Meals: No meals

  • Day 7

    Visit Te Aroha, hike to Wairere Falls Track

    #60595

    We’ll pick you up from your hotel and, leaving the city behind us, drive south to the township of Te Aroha. The town is one of the country’s top tourist spots, celebrated for its naturally hot soda waters and Mokena geyser.

    Today’s hike winds its way amongst tree roots and mossy rocks, and across several bridged river crossings to a lookout platform at the base of the Wairere Falls on the Okauia fault line. 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).
    Accommodation: Sudima Hotel, Rotorua
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 3.8 miles (6 kilometers), 3-4 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,250 feet (380 meters) ascent, 1,250 feet (380 meters) descent

    The 5-day North Island Volcanic Adventure trip starts today in Auckland - please note, breakfast is not included

     

  • Day 8

    Hike Rainbow Mountain and Okere Falls, visit Te Puia

    #60596

    This morning, we’ll head out to hike Rainbow Mountain, aptly named due to the unusual color of the soil. We’ll head up through the native forest past an impressive crater lake for panoramic views over the volcanic plateau. Okere Falls is our next stop, with a short hike along the track where we’ll view the magnificent waterfalls from viewing platforms, and we could be lucky enough to catch white water rafters making their way down the Kaituna River.

    If you prefer not to hike today, you can stay and soak in the local mineral spas or explore Rotorua.

    After re-grouping from the morning’s activities, we’ll visit Te Puia which is famed for the Te Whakarewarewa geothermal valley – a place of gushing waters, steaming vents, boiling mud pools, and impressive geysers.

    Tonight, we’ll enjoy a cultural performance by members of the Te Arawa tribe and share a traditional feast. A hangi, as it’s known, is prepared by wrapping food and burying it in the earth to cook over hot stones. This healthy cooking method is similar to steaming and imparts a wonderful flavor.
    Accommodation: Sudima Hotel, Rotorua
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Rainbow Mountain Hike: 3 miles (5 kilometers), 3 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,115 feet (340 meters) ascent, 1,115 feet (340 meters) descent

    Okere Falls Hike: 1.6 miles (2.4 kilometers), 1 hour
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 205 feet (63 metres) ascent, 205 feet (63 metres) descent

     

  • Day 9

    Hike to Huka Falls, Bike Tongariro River

    #60597

    We head south out of Rotorua today to hike Huka Falls, we’ll follow the track along New Zealand’s longest river, the Waikato, for a spectacular view of the Falls and maybe a dip in some natural hot springs. Traveling further south, we follow the shores of Lake Taupo, an enormous volcanic caldera and the site of the world’s largest eruption in the last 70,000 years.

    After arriving at Turangi and enjoying lunch, we’ll head out to bike a loop track, winding in and out of the beautiful native bushland, farmland and the Tongariro River, New Zealand’s most famous trout fishing river. With constantly changing scenery, this well-marked, tree-covered trail provides ample opportunities to spot native birdlife or to glimpse our rare Whio (Blue Ducks) who make their homes on the riverbanks.

    We’ll stay on the banks of the Tongariro River tonight.
    Accommodation: Creel Lodge, Turangi
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Huka Falls Hike: 2 miles (3 kilometers), 1 hour
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 65 feet (20 meters) ascent, 65 feet (20 meters) descent

    Biking Distance: 9.3 miles (15 kilometres), 1.5-2 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 130 feet (40 meters) 

  • Day 10

    Hike Tongariro National Park, soak in hot pools

    #60598

    Just south of Turangi are three massive volcanoes (Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu) – located in Tongariro National Park, New Zealand’s oldest national park and the fifth oldest in the world.

    Today we’ll hike to the Taranaki Falls and Silica Rapids around the base of Mount Ruapehu, both of these hikes showcase a variety of flora from native beech forest to sub-alpine shrublands, each culminating with a spectacular view; Taranaki Falls is 65 feet (20 meters) high and Silica Rapids has water cascading down a series of creamy white terraces.

    For more experienced hikers, we have the option to complete the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and this full-day hike 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 September) with alpine conditions such as snow and ice, and if the weather isn’t suitable for the crossing, we’ll all hike the Taranaki Falls and Silica Rapids. Your option must be confirmed at time of booking.

    Tonight, you can bathe in some natural thermal springs before having a celebratory dinner for our last night 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 11

    Visit Waitomo Caves, depart for home

    #60599

    For our last day together, we’ll head to the spectacular Waitomo Caves for a morning of caving. For those keen, you’ll head down to explore an underground cave system. You’ll be fitted with a wetsuit, helmet, headlamp and rubber tube in order to float down a subterranean stream, slide down waterfalls and at one point, switch off your headlamp to check out the incredible glowworms that live on the limestone ceiling of the cave. A shower and some hot soup complete the picture. Alternatively, take in the subterranean beauty on foot with a guided walk through Ruakuri cave system where you’ll learn all about the geological significance of the area.

    Afterward, we’ll head back to Auckland where your trip finishes. We’ll have you at the airport in time to catch evening flights back home, or down south for one of our South Island trips.
    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.

Ultimate North Island Adventure Departure Dates

See below for pricing. Looking for a shorter North Island trip? Check out our 5-Day Northland Adventure or our 5-Day North Island Volcanic Adventure.

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Included

  • Our own highly experienced guides, driver, and cook, with you from start to finish
  • Industry-leading Guest-to-Guide ratio (averaging 6:1)
  • Your own ‘Account’, an online space with everything required for your adventure
  • Our knowledgeable Customer Service Team to answer your queries - just a phone call, email or chat away
  • Customer Service pre-trip phone calls to ensure you’re 'trip ready'
  • All accommodations for the duration of your trip
  • All meals except where indicated in the itinerary
  • Unlimited snacks to keep you fueled
  • All activities outlined in the itinerary
  • All necessary equipment (well-maintained and safe) for activities, including Hiking Poles
  • All park and other entry fees
  • Transportation in our air-conditioned vans - safe, clean, modern, and comfortable!



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Our New Zealand 2024 adventures are filling up, so we are guaranteeing ALL trips to depart. Be in quick and book with confidence to secure your spot, and get set to take off on the adventure of a lifetime.

New Zealand is a nature lover's paradise, with unspoiled scenery everywhere you look. From snow-capped mountains to pristine beaches, deep fjords to ancient glaciers, turquoise lakes to volcanic plateaus, New Zealand really does have it all.

Our expert, local guides will take you hiking, biking, kayaking, and more, so you can experience the stunning backdrop close-up. Combine this with a warm and welcoming people, beautiful Maori culture, and world class wines and cuisine, and you've got an incredible, unique adventure you'll never forget.

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

*Terms & conditions apply – read more here

 

Useful Info

Where does the trip start?

On the first morning of the trip, our three pick-up locations are Auckland International Airport Terminal (AKL) at the Help Desk directly opposite international arrivals at 8am, the Auckland Domestic Airport Terminal (AKL) directly outside Door #2 at 8.15am or the Sudima Auckland City Hotel in Auckland central at 9:30am. You are welcome to book your pre-trip stay at this hotel directly or any other hotel in Auckland, though you must make your own way to one of the three pick-up points at the pre-designated times.

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 before 6am. Many guests like to arrive a day or two early to accommodate potential flight delays and/or explore the city prior to your trip start.

Departure: Flying out on the last day of the trip, we recommend departing from Auckland after 7pm for domestic and 8pm for international. Earlier flight times will require a separate transfer booked at your own expense.

How fit do I need to be for this trip?

You’ll need a good level of fitness for this trip. While you don’t have to be extremely fit, you should be in the habit of doing regular aerobic exercise, ideally involving some hills, steps and carrying a backpack. Advance preparation means you’ll enjoy the active and outdoor nature of your trip even more.

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

What accommodations so 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.

There are self-service laundry facilities at most locations. We recommend bringing enough clothing to only have to do
laundry a couple of times during your trip. The best time will be during your two night stay in Auckland (on your free day).

How much luggage can I bring on this trip?

You are allowed one piece of luggage on your trip, plus a daypack. Your main piece of luggage should not exceed 50 pounds (23 kilograms) and can be anything from a duffle bag to a sports bag with wheels or a suitcase. You’ll also want a good quality backpack sized 25-30 liters (2000 cubic inches) to use throughout the days.

Will we encounter snow on this trip?

In big snow years, the snow may stay on the mountains into October and November. If so, the New Zealand Department of Conservation (equivalent of the USA National Park Service) recommend we don’t travel over heavily snowed terrain for safety reasons and we always heed their warnings. If so, some higher elevation hikes in our itinerary, such as on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, may not be accessible. Luckily, New Zealand has many stunning hikes so we’ll select an alternative hike that allows you to enjoy the snow-capped peaks from a safe distance.

Tell me about the Poor Knights Islands day?

While cruising at the Poor Knights Islands we spend the day snorkeling and kayaking. There's also an opportunity for you to do one or two scuba dives in this fantastic marine reserve.

All shapes and sizes of wetsuits are provided, which are two-piece 7mm wetsuits with long arms and legs. You’re welcome to bring your own if you prefer. We also provide booties, fins, mask, snorkel, BCD (buoyancy control), tanks with weights, and a regulator with a computer. If you are certified to dive then please bring along your PADI certification card, and there is an option to dive if you have never done it before too. Note; for the beginner diving, this is an average depth of 12 metres, and minimum age is 10 years.

You have the choice of the following dive options:

  • One dive for certified diver
  • One dive for beginner diver
  • Two dives for certified diver on special diving trip

How do rooming arrangements work?

Trip prices are based on shared arrangements (typically two guests per room), unless otherwise stated. For solo travelers, we’ll pair you with another person of the same gender to share rooms and if there’s no one suitable to share with, there’s no forced single supplement. However, if you specifically request your own rooms, you can opt to pay the single supplement. Solo travelers who book within 120 days of departure, where there are no other solo travelers willing to share, will be required to pay the single supplement.

For Family Vacation bookings, families consisting of four guests traveling with children aged 17 and under will be automatically assigned one shared room. However, the following alternative rooming allocations are available:

  • Families consisting of four guests with all children aged 13 and above are welcome to opt for additional rooms as per advertised double occupancy adult rates.
  • Families consisting of four guests with at least one child aged 12 and under are automatically assigned a shared room. However, families can opt to pay the adult rates for all guests in their family to have an additional room.
  • The same principles apply for families consisting of more than four guests.

Rooming preferences are subject to availability and must be communicated in writing at time of booking. Automatic assignments as per this policy will be applied in the absence of any specification provided by guests. Any request for additional rooms during trips will be at guests’ own expense and subject to rates made available by the accommodation provider at the time. All minors (guests aged 17 and under) must be accompanied by at least one adult.

Tell me about the Tongariro Alpine Crossing?

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is often referred to as New Zealand’s best mountain day-hike. It’s a long day hike with a few up hills and a long, gradual downhill at the end. Starting with a gradual uphill walk, you’ll then climb a ridge and traverse over a spectacular moonlike landscape, passing the stunning Emerald Lakes and nearby volcanic features. Good hiking boots are a must as the track, although well marked, has a couple of ridges to climb along and down. There are a few steps too, so it’s a really good idea to have some hiking poles, whether you share between two or use both of them, you’ll be very glad to have them with you.

If you’re booked to come during our winter months from May through to October, you have the option of either hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, or some fabulous lower elevation hikes in the Tongariro National Park.

Winter Alpine crossing of Mt Tongariro
Mt. Tongariro and the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is at this time of the year is typically covered in snow and ice. If you’re keen, and fit - and the weather is suitable, you can still hike over the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. It’s a full day out, and we’ll provide all the gear, such as crampons, ice axes and a specialist guide this day.

Winter hiking Tongariro National Park
Tongariro National Park has many other hiking trails to explore, a couple of which are the Taranaki Falls waterfall hike, and the terraces of the Silica Rapids. These tracks are away from the higher elevations of snow and ice and are fabulous hiking alternatives for this day!

Tell me about the Waitomo Caves options?

When we visit Waitomo we have two ways to experience these fabulous caves - either wet or dry! Wet option you’ll be floating along through an underground river on an innertube (wearing all the appropriate gear of course), and dry means you can walk through a nearby cave instead. With both options you’ll see limestone formations and masses of glow-worms.

Cave Tubing at Waitomo (wet)
Waitomo is renowned for its caves and what an awesome way to experience this region by really getting in it! We’ll provide all the gear, such as a head-lamp, helmet, wet-suit and rubber tubes, along with and a specialist guide this day and head off on a subterranean adventure through the Ruakuri Caves. You’ll take leaps of faith over cascading waterfalls, and float serenely down an underground river as you enjoy the glow-worms above you (enjoy lovely hot showers and hot soup after!)

Walking Ruakuri Caves (dry)
A dry option today is wandering through the Ruakuri Cave at Waitomo. Journey down through the spectacular spiral entrance, and see shawl-like limestone formations, crystal tapestries, stalactites & stalagmites - as well as glowworms.

Is tipping expected in New Zealand?

Tipping is neither required nor routinely expected in New Zealand, but it is appropriate for very good service. In New Zealand you don't usually tip in restaurants, or if you take a taxi, or get a haircut. Many of our guests do choose to tip our guides and we recommend USD$20 per day, per guest, per guide. You are welcome to tip an equivalent amount in the local currency. There are plenty of ATM’s and banks in the larger towns of New Zealand.

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Our Local Guides

Want to see more? Add on the South Island too!

New Zealand

Ultimate South Island Adventure

4.7

  • Duration 14 days
  • Activity Level Level 3-4 
    • Activity Level 3

      Those who take on our Level 3 tours are looking for more challenging hikes that will raise their heart rate.

    • Activity Level 4

      Be prepared for some serious physical activity on our Level 4 trips. The fitter you are, the more you'll enjoy it, as most hikes will be challenging.

    Read more about the Active Range

Experience the best of the South Island on our signature New Zealand adventure tour. You'll explore the most iconic spots as well as little-known gems only we locals know about. With our guides' legendary hospitality and deep local knowledge, you're guaranteed an authentic connection with the stunning natural beauty of the South Island.

Trip Start: Christchurch Trip End: Christchurch

New Zealand

Classic South Island Adventure

4.7

  • Duration 8 days
  • Activity Level Level 2 
    • Activity Level 2

      Hikes on our Level 2 adventures are considered easy to moderate in difficulty.

    Read more about the Active Range

Discover New Zealand's backcountry via hiking, biking, and kayaking on this eight-day trip. From a scenic flight into Aspiring National Park, jet boat ride out the same day, and a cruise in Milford Sound, each day is unique.

Trip Start: Christchurch Trip End: Queenstown

New Zealand

Milford Track Adventure

4.6

  • Duration 14 days
  • Activity Level Level 3-4 
    • Activity Level 3

      Those who take on our Level 3 tours are looking for more challenging hikes that will raise their heart rate.

    • Activity Level 4

      Be prepared for some serious physical activity on our Level 4 trips. The fitter you are, the more you'll enjoy it, as most hikes will be challenging.

    Read more about the Active Range

Choose to hike the entire Milford Track or opt for day hikes along Routeburn, Milford, and Kepler Tracks. You'll also hike trails known only to the locals in Mt. Aspiring National Park, the West Coast, and Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park.

Trip Start: Christchurch Trip End: Christchurch

New Zealand

Great Walks of New Zealand

4.7

  • Duration 5 days
  • Activity Level Level 2 
    • Activity Level 2

      Hikes on our Level 2 adventures are considered easy to moderate in difficulty.

    Read more about the Active Range

Hike sections of three of New Zealand's Great Walks (Kepler Track, Routeburn Track, and Milford Track) and enjoy all the creature comforts each night, including an overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound.

Trip Start: Queenstown Trip End: Queenstown

Why Travel With Us

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Experience adventure the way you want

You’ll be inspired and exhilarated, enjoying mind-blowing scenery on foot, in a sea kayak, or by bike - all at your own pace.

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Crafting award-winning trips for decades - the New Zealand way

We're proud of our New Zealand roots and you’ll love our professional and warm style of hosting. We’re always here to help with planning... even hiking boot recommendations!

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Every detail covered, to maximise your time

We've got everything covered – top-notch meals, comfortable transport, superb accommodation, amazing guides and INCREDIBLE service.

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Group travel for those who aren’t ‘group travelers’

With an average of 12 guests per departure and an industry-leading average 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, you'll get to know your fellow travelers and have the flexibility to go at your own pace.

benefit gems

Explore hidden gems through our expert local guides

All our carefully selected guides are highly experienced and have deep personal connections to nature and culture. You’ll enjoy an authentic local experience.

benefit review

Over 10,000 5-star reviews - that’s pretty solid

We could hang around all day telling you how wonderful our trips are... but the best people to hear it from are our guests themselves.