The North Island of New Zealand is blessed with spectacular scenery, ranging from bubbling thermal pools to fast flowing rivers. The best way to see all of this? Get up close and personal. This itinerary includes biking through Karangahake Gorge and hiking the Tongariro Crossing — one of the world's most famous one-day hikes — before jet boats provide the transport along the Whanganui River. Mix in some bubbling mud and a traditional hangi dinner, and this is the perfect active introduction to New Zealand.
Travel Style
Active
Service Level
Basic
Physical Grading
3 - Average
What's Included
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group. All Blacks Experience. Cycle through Karangahake Gorge. Traditional hangi dinner. Tongariro Alpine Crossing hiking excursion (weather dependent). Jet boat along Whanganui River. Free time in Rotorua and Waitomo. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
What are the main highlights of this trip?
Cycle through the stunning Karangahake Gorge, Check out bubbling mud pools in a geothermal area, Learn about traditional Maori artistry, Hike the Tongariro Crossing — one of the world's greatest one-day hikes, Ride a jet boat along the Whanganui River
How large will the group be?
Max 16, avg 12
What meals are included in this trip?
6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners
What are the modes of transportation on my trip?
Private vehicle, jet boat, bicycle, walking.
Where will we stay during the trip?
Hotels (5 nts), lodges (2 nts).
Itinerary
Auckland
Arrive to your hotel by 3pm today to jump straight into the action with an exclusive introduction to the All Blacks, New Zealand's national rugby union team. Experience the mighty Haka and then opt to grab dinner with your group.
Auckland/Rotorua
Enjoy a morning cycle through the beautiful Karangahake Gorge, then travel on to the lakes region of Rotorua. En route to Rotorua visit The Redwoods.
Rotorua
Enjoy a free morning in Rotorua, a town in a geothermal area with boiling mud and hotpools. Opt to go whitewater rafting, go hiking, or hit the spa. Later in the afternoon, visit the New Zealand Arts and Crafts Institute to speak to local Maori carvers and tuck into a delicious Hangi meal cooked underground. This region of New Zealand is renowned for its geothermal qualities. Enjoy free time to experience the regions' geothermal wonders. Opt to go white water rafting or indulge in the therapeutic hot springs.
Rotorua/Tongariro National Park
Start your day with the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, widely regarded as New Zealand’s premier one-day trek. Traverse dramatic volcanic landscapes, pass shimmering emerald lakes, and marvel at breathtaking alpine views. After this incredible adventure, you’ll head to a charming alpine village to relax and enjoy a well-earned dinner with your fellow travellers. Mt Tongariro's rocky, dramatic landscapes make this day-long trek truly one of New Zealand's "Great Walks", passing emerald lakes and beautiful alpine scenery. Start early and collect supplies before heading out. The transfer will drop the group off at the beginning of the self-guided trek and collect everyone at the other end. After the trek, travel to a nearby alpine village for the night and enjoy a well earned dinner with your travel companions.
Tongariro National Park/Whanganui National Park
Travel to Blue Duck Station, a working farm and conservation haven nestled on the edge of Whanganui National Park. Here, you’ll learn about the station’s inspiring efforts to protect local wildlife, including the endangered blue duck, while admiring the beauty of the Whanganui River. A guided bush safari will introduce you to the area’s rich history, conservation work, and sustainable farming practices. End the day with a delicious dinner and a restful evening at this unique and rustic retreat. Marvel at the Whanganui River - the third longest in New Zealand - as it flows out to the west coast of the North Island from Mt Tongariro. Learn about the region's natural history, conservation efforts for indigenous wildlife (including the endangered New Zealand blue duck) and Blue Duck Station's sustainable farming practices.
Whanganui National Park
Embark on a day of exploration along the Whanganui River. Experience the thrill of a jet boat ride through the heart of the national park and discover historical Maori and European settlements. During short walks or stops en route, learn about the region's history and local conservation efforts. Return to Blue Duck Station for another night of relaxation and connection with nature. Enjoy a delicious dinner.
Whanganui National Park/Waitomo District
Travel north to the small town of Waitomo, located near an extensive underground cave system. Enjoy a free afternoon, opt to explore the nearby caves, or explore the area on foot. Settle into your accommodation close by, and enjoy a final dinner together to say farewell to those finishing their tour in Auckland tomorrow.
Waitomo District/Auckland
After an early start, visit the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, and take a boat ride through this spectacular underground realm to see thousands of flickering glowworms light up in the dark. Travel north to Auckland where your tour will end around 1pm.
Is travel insurance required for my trip?
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Terms, conditions and restrictions apply; pricing, availability, and other details subject to change and/ or apply to US or Canadian residents. Please confirm details and booking information with your travel advisor.
