South Island Lick Tour - (7 Day)
7D / 7N
7 Days / 7 Nights, Christchurch
| Priced Per: | Person |
| Ages: | 18-80 Years |
Be awed by stunning mountains, fantastic views, and the amazing Queenstown on this South Island trip where you’ll experience unbeatable scenery coupled with a massive range of optional activities.
Starting and ending in the “Garden City” of Christchurch, we show you the ultimate highlights of New Zealand’s stunning South Island over 7 action-packed days.
From turquoise lakes to towering mountains and glaciers, the South Island’s scenery will blow your mind, and the nation’s adventure capital, Queenstown, has all the adrenalin activities on offer that you could possibly wish for. As the tour starts early in the morning, you can opt to stay at our Haka accommodation in Christchurch the night before the tour – only having to walk downstairs on the day the tour starts makes for a stress free morning. Accommodation is included on the last night of your tour, but we can also book a few extra nights for you if you would like to extend your stay.
The tour price includes dorm share accommodation but if you would prefer your own space you have the option to upgrade to a private room for the duration of your tour.
In this itinerary, you’ll find descriptions of the places you’ll be visiting and the inclusions that you’ll experience. We’ve also provided an example timetable for each day to help give you a sense of what your days on tour may look like. Keep in mind though, that every tour is unique, with each guide bringing their own special flavour to the trip.
Each day also has a list of our favourite Haka Highlights, and the add-on activities and experiences that are available in that location.
Tour Inclusions –
- Explore downtown Christchurch and see its inspiring regeneration since the 2011 quake
- Visit the tiny Church of the Good Shepherd, nestled by the shores of Lake Tekapo
- Unparalleled stargazing opportunities in Tekapo’s Dark Sky Reserve
- Two nights in Queenstown, the Adventure Capital of the World
- Visit the charming, historic gold rush village of Arrowtown
- Carve your own pounamu (jade) pendant in Franz Josef
- Visit the Mountain Jade Factory in Hokitika
- Relax for two nights at a West Coast rainforest retreat in Paparoa National Park
- Plus many surprise stops along the way
*Itinerary Summary *
- Day 1 – Christchurch To Mackenzie Country
- Day 2 – Mackenzie Country To Queenstown
- Day 3 – Queenstown
- Day 4 – Queenstown To Wanaka
- Day 5 – Wanaka To Franz Josef
- Day 6 – Franz Josef
- Day 7 – Franz Josef To Christchurch
- Day 8 – Christchurch
DAY 1 – CHRISTCHURCH TO MACKENZIE COUNTRY This morning we’ll explore iconic downtown Christchurch and your guide will show you the cool and creative ways the city is being rebuilt after the life-changing 2011 earthquake here. Christchurch folk are an innovative and creative bunch – the Transitional Cathedral, created from cardboard, is totally inspirational.
After lunch we leave the city behind and head for Lake Tekapo. The lake’s breathtaking turquoise colour and mountain backdrop is a photographer’s dream come true. The tiny Church of the Good Shepherd stands right at the water’s edge, proving that small is definitely beautiful. Grab some confetti and congratulate any passing brides – couples travel from all over the world for wedding shots in front of the chapel!
Tekapo has been declared an International Dark Sky Reserve and the super clear skies make it the best place in New Zealand to see the stars and galaxies on a clear night. Sit back, relax and enjoy.
Please note: Private accommodation upgrades are not available for this night of the tour due to the limited availability of accommodation in the area. In special circumstances other arrangements may be possible – please contact info@hakatours.com for more information.
Morning Meet your Guide and group for breakfast and introductions Explore Christchurch Afternoon Head off in the Haka bus to stunning Lake Tekapo Check out the Southern Alps from above in a scenic helicopter ride (not included) Evening Wander the beautiful lakeshore of Tekapo Go out for dinner with your tour group (not included) Haka Highlights (Included) Explore downtown Christchurch and see its inspiring regeneration since the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes Visit The Church of the Good Shepherd nestled by the shore of Lake Tekapo Reach for the stars with unparalleled stargazing opportunities in Tekapo’s Dark Sky Reserve Epic Add-Ons Scenic Flight
DAY 2 – MACKENZIE COUNTRY TO QUEENSTOWN This morning if you’re feeling energetic, hike up to the summit of Mt John. With awesome views of the Southern Alps, you’ll feel on top of the world. Speaking of views, today’s scenic drive to Queenstown is a show-stopper.
From the golden tussocklands of Mackenzie country – where epic battles of Return of the King were filmed – to the dramatic peaks of the Southern Alps, it’s like you’re driving into a postcard. We’ll pause for lots of photo stops en route to give your camera a workout, including a stop at the spectacular Kawarau Gorge. This also happens to be the World Home of Bungy, give it a go or enjoy watching the jumpers scream their way through the gorge!
Whether you’re an adrenalin junkie, an avid hiker, wine taster or scenery lover, Queenstown has something for absolutely everyone. With two nights and plenty of daylight hours here, get ready – this town certainly knows how to live life to the max!
Morning Breakfast Hike up Mt John Drive through the starkly beautiful Mackenzie country to Queenstown Afternoon Optional bridge bungy at Kawarau Gorge en route (not included) Get to know vibrant Queenstown with an orientation from your guide Explore Queenstown your own way! Evening Grab dinner with your Haka crew (not included) Haka Highlights (Included) A scenic drive to die for with mountain passes and gorgeous gorges Welcome to Queenstown the Adventure Capital of New Zealand! Epic Add-Ons Scenic Flight Bungy Jump Paragliding
DAY 3 – QUEENSTOWN With a full day in Queenstown, let’s work on that bucket list! There are heaps of options to choose from: paragliding over the lake, mountain bike parks and trails to die for, bungy jumping while your Haka friends cheer you on, horse riding through Lord of the Rings scenery, and swinging through a canyon are just a few of our favourites.
Hikers: the Ben Lomond day walk (not for the faint- hearted) will be right up your alley. This is a firm tour guide favourite, and they can recommend great shorter walks too.
For scenery lovers, Milford Sound is a must-see. Whether you fly or drive, the scenery en route is as awesome as the destination. Once on the Sound, sailing beneath thundering waterfalls and towering cliff faces, you’ll understand why some call it the “8th Wonder of the World”
Tonight you have around 40 bars to choose from – your guide will fill you in on their favourites – to share your adventures with your travel buddies, and party the night away.
Morning Breakfast Tackle your chosen activities for the day Afternoon Further time for exploring and add-on activities Evening Return to Queenstown from your day of adrenalin Head to your accommodation to relax before a night on the town. Make a night of it at one (or several) of Queenstown’s many bars! Haka Highlights (Included) Full day in Queenstown to scratch your adrenalin itch or soak up the scenery Epic Add-Ons Visit Milford Sound Canyon Swing Bungy Jumping Skydiving Paragliding Shotover Jet Boat Canyoning Horse Trekking Middle Earth 4WD Tour Heli-Mountain Biking
DAY 4 – QUEENSTOWN TO WANAKA After the excitement of Queenstown, today is a chance to chill. Wanaka is Queenstown’s slightly quieter little sister, a mere one hour drive away. On the way we’ll stop in at charming Arrowtown, a historic gold rush village with heaps of old world character.
Blessed with towering peaks and a glacial blue lake, you’ll soon see why Wanaka’s considered to be one of New Zealand’s most beautiful mountain towns. There are stunning hikes and bike rides all around for a welcome chance to chill.
One of the best ways to admire Wanaka is from the air. Treat yourself to a skydive or a scenic flight in a vintage plane – you can even take a flying lesson, or if you prefer to keep your feet closer to the ground, stroll or bike around the lake and check out the famous Wanaka Tree, standing all alone in the water. As always, it’s your trip and your choice: you do you.
Morning Breakfast Explore charming historic Arrowtown Check out Cardrona en route to Wanaka Afternoon Explore Lake Wanaka and the township by foot, bike or boat Head up in the air or out on the water with an add-on activity (not included) Evening Take a walk around the shores of Lake Wanaka Up your Insta cred with a snap of #thatwanakatree Haka Highlights (Included) Visit Arrowtown and experience this charming and historic gold rush village Soak Up The beauty of Lake Wanaka while getting to know this stellar town Epic Add-Ons Skydiving Tiger Moth Aerobatic Plane Ride Wanaka Bike Tours Lake Cruise & Island Nature Walk
DAY 5 – WANAKA TO FRANZ JOSEF After a relaxing morning in Wanaka, the journey to Franz is another stunner – many of our Haka Guides rate it as their favourite drive in New Zealand.
As we hit the road, we’ll stop at one of our favourite lakeside lookout points at Lake Hawea or Lake Wanaka. Your guide will keep an eye on the weather and pick the best option. From the cascading waterfalls of Haast Pass to classic Kiwi coastal views, you won’t want to nap on the bus in case you miss anything. Your guide will have some epic surprise photo stops and short walks along the way.
Between September and December it’s whitebait season (a small fish that’s a delicacy in New Zealand). Fried up with eggs and served on toast, it’s a local treat and shouldn’t be missed. We’ll stop at one of the local spots for a taste during the season.
We roll into Franz Josef around late afternoon/early evening. This UNESCO World Heritage area is famous for its spectacular glacier, just 5 kilometres from town, which is begging to be explored tomorrow.
Morning Breakfast Spend the morning exploring Wanaka or trying any last minute activities Afternoon Hit the road on the Haka bus for the most magical drive of your whole tour Special stops en route to gaze out at Lake Hawea and check out some short walks Arrive at our glacier stop for the night – Franz Josef Evening Grab some Kiwi kai (food) with your team (not included) Haka Highlights (Included) Super scenic drive through the Fiordland, Mt Aspiring and Tai Poutini (Westland) National Parks Wondrous waterfall walks as we hit the Haast Pass Try local delicacy whitebait when it’s in season (September to December) Epic Add-Ons Wanaka Bike Tours Lake Cruise & Island Nature Walk
DAY 6 – FRANZ JOSEF With Aoraki/Mount Cook (New Zealand’s highest mountain) twinkling behind the glaciers, Franz Josef is about as beautiful a setting as you can find in New Zealand.
Te Wahi Pounamu (which means ‘the place of greenstone’ in Māori) is the name given to the this part of the West Coast because of the abundance of pounamu (greenstone/jade) to be found here. Included in your tour today is a special opportunity to carve your very own pounamu pendant at a local gallery.
There are heaps of ways to enjoy Franz Josef Glacier; weather permitting, to get up onto the bluest ice you can take a scenic helicopter flight and hike onto the glaciers. Maybe you’d prefer to kayak on a glacial lake; or just relax in the steamy hot springs down below.
As well as the awesome glacier activities you could also try out quad biking, horseback riding and even a bit of group karaoke tonight in Franz Josef!
Morning Breakfast Learn to carve a pounamu pendant with your group (included) Set out on one of the many glacial activities on offer – see our Epic Add-ons section below for ideas Evening Head back to your accommodation to get changed and give your muscles a rest! Dine out with your Haka pals (not included) Sing your heart out at karaoke! Haka Highlights (Included) Take in the staggering beauty of the West Coast’s natural features Carve your own pendant from pounamu (greenstone/jade) Epic Add-Ons Glacier Heli Hike Scenic Helicopter Flight With Snow Landing Kayak in Glacier Country
DAY 7 – FRANZ JOSEF TO CHRISTCHURCH Before you know it, it’s your last day! After breakfast we head further along the beautiful west coast on another of the most spectacular drives in the country (and, some would say, the world): a rugged, primeval landscape of luxuriant rainforest juxtaposed against breathtaking beach and ocean waves.
We stop at Hokitika and visit a greenstone factory, a great place to stock up on souvenirs for your friends and family back home. Time permitting, we may also visit the National Kiwi Centre where there is guaranteed viewing of rare kiwi birds in their nocturnal house.
On the way back to Christchurch, you’ll traverse the South Island on the stunning TranzAlpine Train Crossing. Travelling across the Southern Alps through Arthur’s Pass, you’ll arrive in Christchurch around 6.30pm before transferring to your accommodation.
Your tour officially ends in Christchurch, so feel free to party on with your new travel buddies for as long as you like – your accommodation tonight is included so you can treat yourself to a lie-in in the morning!
Morning Breakfast Drive further up the wild west coast to Hokitika Visit the Hokitika Mountain Jade Factory Get face-to-face with a kiwi at the National Kiwi Centre (not included) Afternoon Board the TranzAlpine train for scenic journey across to Christchurch through Arthur’s Pass Evening Pull into Christchurch at around 6:30pm Head to your final night accommodation (included) Haka Highlights (Included) Visit the mountain jade factory in Hokitika Traverse The Southern Alps on the TranzAlpine train journey
DAY 8 – CHRISTCHURCH Your tour ends after breakfast on Day 8. We’re sure you’ll have a whole lot of incredible memories to take home with you. We’ve shown you our New Zealand – we hope we will see you again. Haere tū atu, hoki tū mai.
North Island Adventure Tour - Auckland to Wellington (7 Day)
7D / 7N
7 Days / 7 Nights, Wellington – Auckland
| Product Code: | PSAENA |
| Priced Per: | Person |
| Ages: | 18-80 Years |
Experience the very best of the North Island with Haka. Our 7 day North Island tour combines mind-blowing scenery and fascinating Maori culture with adventure.
You will see it all in the ultimate week-long North Island holiday; volcanoes, beautiful beaches, glow-worm caves, Lord of the Rings locations, bubbling mud pools and rich forests whilst learning about our proud Maori culture.
Tour Inclusions
- Walk up Maungawhau/Mt Eden for stunning 360 degree views of all of Auckland
- Stunning walk to the spectacular arched cavern of Coromandel’s Cathedral Cove
- Experience a Maori cultural performance in Rotorua
- Learn a haka and learn to weave flax with a local iwi (tribe)
- Visit Te Puia – a local cultural centre – to learn more about traditional Maori culture and discover Rotorua’s geothermal wonders
- Traditional Maori hangi meal cooked in an underground oven
- Follow your nose to Rotorua’s bubbling mud pools
- Discover what makes Huka Falls the most visited natural attraction in NZ
- Check out the views from Matairangi/Mount Victoria, Wellington
- Fall in love with Wellington’s cafe and craft beer culture
- Plus many surprise stops along the way
DAY 1 – AUCKLAND TO COROMANDEL
After breakfast, we kick off the tour in New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland. Have you noticed that it’s pretty hilly? Those aren’t just hills, they are actually 48 volcanic cones! Before we leave town we will walk up one of the most famous ones – Maungawhau, also known as Mount Eden – for 360 degree views of both city and sea.
The Coromandel Peninsula is a paradise of beautiful beaches and misty rainforests. The drive here is epic – the road twists and turns dramatically round the coastline and the ocean gets clearer and more pristine before your eyes. Cameras ready – the views are magnificent!
The Coromandel is home to the famous Hot Water Beach – thousands visit each year to dig their own personal hot tub here. If the tide times allow, we’ll definitely grab our buckets and spades and get busy!
We arrive in Whitianga with plenty of time for your guide to show you around. Sample the sandy beaches, take a surf lesson with the locals, or simply enjoy the vibes.
DAY 2 – COROMANDEL TO WAITOMO
This morning we’ll walk out together along the cliffs and down to Cathedral Cove (which you might recognize from the Chronicles of Narnia). With perfect beaches and massive rock arches and columns, it’s one of the most popular spots in the Coromandel.
Alternatively, take an optional guided Cathedral Cove kayak trip and check out this stunning coastline from a different angle, accompanied by a local dolphin or two if you’re lucky!
Later today we say goodbye to the east coast and hello to the west as we head for the tiny town of Waitomo. If you can’t wait until tomorrow to meet the resident glow worms, tonight’s optional cave- walking tour is a must. Or kick back with a beer and admire the stars – they put on a great show here when the skies are clear.
DAY 3 – WAITOMO TO ROTORUA
Have you been caving in a place with twinkling glow worms on the ceiling? Now’s your chance!
Daredevils can abseil 100 metres into the caverns on an epic 4-hour caving adventure. Or float along on an underground river on an optional Cave Tubing trip as the glow worms light your way. There are also excellent guided walking tours of the caves available if heights or wet feet aren’t your thing. Later this afternoon we head to Rotorua (or Rotovegas as it is locally known).
Lord of the Rings fans, channel your inner hobbit with an optional visit to picturesque Hobbiton – have a ginger beer at the Green Dragon pub for us!
This evening is a major tour highlight – we are welcomed to a Māori community for an unmissable cultural performance featuring combat demonstrations, beautiful poi performance, and – of course – the breathtaking haka. You will also have the privilege of learning a haka or poi dance from local Māori. A traditional hāngī meal, cooked in an earth oven, will fill your puku (belly) right up.
DAY 4 – ROTORUA TO MURUPARA
While the majority of the North Island is volcanic in some way, Rotorua is exceptional for its geothermal activity. With neon blue and red lakes, steaming rivers, active volcanoes and geysers galore, there are more unique natural wonders to be found in Rotorua than many other places in the world.
There’s heaps of time to get amongst Rotorua’s diverse attractions while you’re here. We’ll get you started with an orientation tour, including a stroll through the flower- filled Government Gardens by the lakefront. If adrenalin’s your thing, the highest commercial waterfall drop in the world, on the Kaituna River, is begging to be conquered on an exhilarating rafting trip.
Later this afternoon we head to Kohutapu Lodge in Murupara – a living Māori village – where you will be taken on a tribal tour by a village elder. Here you’ll also have a chance to learn the world-famous haka dance, and weave your own dinner plate using flax (a type of plant). Tonight’s dinner is a traditional hāngi meal. Cooked in an underground earth oven you can expect tender meat and delicious vegetables infused with a smoky, earthy fragrance – it will fill your puku (belly) right up! The best part about spending the evening at Kohutapu Lodge. The majority of proceeds from this activity go back to the local community.
Please note: Private accommodation upgrades are not available for this night of the tour due to the limited availability of accommodation in the area. In special circumstances other arrangements may be possible – please contact info@hakatours.com for more information.
DAY 5 – MURUPARA TO TAUPŌ This morning you will visit Te Puia – a well-known Maori culture centre. At Te Puia you can explore Whakarewarewa geothermal valley, visit New Zealand’s native kiwi birds, and learn about Maori history & culture.. It’s only a short drive to our next destination, Taupō, and there’s plenty to discover along the way. From mesmerising mud pools to the thundering rapids of the Huka Falls and Aratiatia Dam, your trusty Haka Guide will make sure you don’t miss a thing.
This place is all about the thrills and spills, and there are plenty of options in store this afternoon. Get your hair wet with a water touch bungy jump, take an unforgettable skydive or a sunset lake cruise for amazing lake and mountain views.
DAY 6 – TAUPŌ
A full day in Taupō… are you in the mood for peaceful lakeside tranquillity or unlimited adrenalin and adventure? Either way, Taupō’s got you covered. For many, the ultimate adventure on offer here is the hiking (or tramping, as we Kiwis know it). The
Tongariro Crossing is among the top 10 full-day walks in the world. This 19.4-kilometre mountain trek boasts emerald green lakes, venting steam, lava flows and craters. You’ll come back grinning from ear to ear before falling into bed and sleeping like a baby.
If you’d prefer to relax, jump on a boat for a sailing trip to view Māori rock carvings. Or head to Spa Park and soak until your fingers are wrinkly. However you choose to spend today we guarantee you won’t forget it.
DAY 7 – TAUPŌ TO WELLINGTON
It’s a big drive from Taupō to Wellington, but there’s some unmissable scenery on offer. Lord of the Rings junkies, you’re in for a treat!
Our journey takes us through Tongariro National Park via the Rangipo Desert (bet you didn’t know New Zealand had one of those!). Some of your favourite Lord of the Rings battle scenes were filmed right here.
The Desert Road boasts incredible views of three active volcanic peaks – Mount Tongariro, Mount Ngauruhoe, and Mount Ruapehu. You may know Mount Ngauruhoe as Mount Doom, so be sure to snap a Mordor selfie!
We pass through two of the North Island’s quirkier towns – as ever, your Haka Guide has a couple of surprises up their sleeve…
We pull into Wellington in the afternoon, with just enough time for film buffs make a trip to Weta Workshop, where the special effects of Lord of the Rings and Avatar were produced.
New Zealand’s capital is famous for its bars and eateries, and is a paradise for lovers of craft beer – you’ll be spoilt for choice tonight!
DAY 8 – WELLINGTON
Your tour ends after breakfast on Day 8.
We’re sure you’ll have a whole lot of incredible memories to take home with you.
We’ve shown you our New Zealand – we hope we will see you again.
Haere tū atu, hoki tū mai.
North Island Adventure Tour - Wellington to Auckland (7 Day)
7D / 7N
7 Days / 7 Nights, Wellington – Auckland
| Product Code: | PSAENA |
| Priced Per: | Person |
| Ages: | 18-80 Years |
Experience the very best of the North Island with Haka. Our 7 day North Island tour combines mind-blowing scenery and fascinating Maori culture with adventure.
You will see it all in the ultimate week-long North Island holiday; volcanoes, beautiful beaches, glow-worm caves, Lord of the Rings locations, bubbling mud pools and rich forests whilst learning about our proud Maori culture.
Tour Inclusions
- Check out the views from Matairangi/Mount Victoria, Wellington
- Fall in love with Wellington’s cafe and craft beer culture
- Discover what makes Huka Falls the most visited natural attraction in NZ
- Experience a Maori cultural performance
- Learn a haka and poi performancelearn to weave flax with a local iwi (tribe)
- Visit Te Puia – a local cultural centre – to learn more about traditional Maori culture and discover Rotorua’s geothermal wonders
- Traditional Maori hangi meal cooked in an underground oven
- Follow your nose to Rotorua’s bubbling mud pools
- Stunning walk to the spectacular arched cavern of Coromandel’s Cathedral Cove
- Walk up Maungawhau/Mt Eden for stunning 360 degree views of all of Auckland
- Plus many surprise stops along the way
PLEASE NOTE – THERE IS 1 NIGHT ON THIS TOUR WHERE PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION UPGRADES ARE NOT AVAILABLE DUE TO LIMITED AVAILABILITY. THIS IS DAY 3 IN MURUPARA. IN SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES ARRANGEMENTS MAY BE POSSIBLE – PLEASE CONTACT AGENTS@HAKATOURS.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION
DAY 1 – WELLINGTON TO TAUPŌ
In the morning your tour guide will give you a tour of Wellington city and the surrounding bays. This can include a trip to Weta Workshop, where films like Lord of the Rings have been made. We also may visit the parliament buildings, cable car and Mount Victoria.
On the way to Taupō we drive along the Desert Road that divides the Rangipo Desert (an area with poor vegetation because of bad soil conditions and drying winds). The climate is harsh and in winter it is not unusual to see snow. However, the biggest attractions on this road are that of Mount Ruapehu, Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe, the volcano better known as Mount Doom in Lord of the Rings. On the other side of the road is the lesser noticed Kaimanawa Range, home to a breed of wild horses that can be spotted on rare occasions.
We arrive at the accommodation by evening. With a whole day to explore Taupō tomorrow, feel free to relax at the hostel or go out to experience some of the town’s best nightlife!
DAY 2 – TAUPŌ
Lake Taupō is actually a giant volcanic crater created 70,000 years ago in one of the biggest eruptions in history. Nowadays, it’s one of NZ’s best spots for a holiday escape. And being New Zealand, there are plenty of adventure sports to be found there too!
If you’re looking for a thrill, we suggest skydiving over the lake or bungy jumping over New Zealand’s longest river (and, for the really brave, getting dunked in). There are heaps of other activities on offer such as quad biking, cruising the lake to see Māori rock carvings, hiking along the shores, mountain biking and even the chance to soak in some of the local geothermal pools.
New Zealand’s most famous day hike is also in the area. The 19.4 km Tongariro Crossing is an alpine crossing around Tongariro, one of the country’s most famous and most beautiful volcanoes. It’s a serious leg workout, but but it’s worth every minute for the incredible views and landscape. Turquoise and green lakes greet you at the top, along with vistas that stretch all the way to the coast.
DAY 3 – TAUPŌ TO MURUPARA
After our morning in Taupō we head to Kohutapu Lodge in Murupara – a living Māori village – where you will be taken on a tribal tour by a village elder.
Here you’ll also have a chance to learn the world-famous haka dance, and weave your own dinner plate using flax (a type of plant). Tonight’s dinner is a traditional hāngi meal. Cooked in an underground earth oven you can expect tender meat and delicious vegetables infused with a smoky, earthy fragrance – it will fill your puku (belly) right up! The best part about spending the evening at Kohutapu Lodge. The majority of proceeds from this activity go back to the local community.
Please note: Private accommodation upgrades are not available for this night of the tour due to the limited availability of accommodation in the area. In special circumstances other arrangements may be possible – please contact info@hakatours.com for more information. * *DAY 4 – MURUPARA TO ROTORUA
While the majority of the North Island is volcanic in some way, Rotorua is exceptional for its geothermal activity. With neon blue and red lakes, steaming rivers, active volcanoes and geysers galore, there are more unique natural wonders to be found in Rotorua than many other places in the world.
On the way to Rotorua, we stop at what really makes the town famous, along with giving it its unique smell: one of several extraordinary geyserlands and thermal parks.
There’s heaps of time to get amongst Rotorua’s diverse attractions while you’re here. We’ll get you started with an orientation tour, including a stroll through the flower- filled Government Gardens by the lakefront.
Lord of the Rings fans, channel your inner hobbit with an optional visit to picturesque Hobbiton – have a ginger beer at the Green Dragon pub for us!
If adrenalin’s your thing, the highest commercial waterfall drop in the world, on the Kaituna River, is begging to be conquered on an exhilarating rafting trip. Or let your guide coax you into thundering down grassy hills in a giant air-cushioned inflatable ball (or OGO) – you won’t regret it!
DAY 5 – ROTORUA TO WAITOMO
We’ll start out our day with a visit to Te Puia – a well-known Maori culture centre.
At Te Puia you can explore Whakarewarewa geothermal valley, visit New Zealand’s native kiwi birds, and learn about Maori history & culture.
Waitomo is a distinctive limestone region where surface water and underground streams have dissolved the rock over tens of thousands of years, creating an amazing system of underground caves.
As the small town is only two hours from Rotorua, we reach our accommodation by late afternoon.
DAY 6 – WAITOMO TO COROMANDEL
Have you been caving in a place with twinkling glowworms on the ceiling? Now’s your chance!
Daredevils can abseil 100 metres into the caverns on an epic 4-hour caving adventure. Or float along on an underground river on an optional Cave Tubing trip as the glowworms light your way. There are also excellent guided walking tours of the caves available if heights or wet feet aren’t your thing.
It’s no secret that many blockbuster hits have been filmed in New Zealand due to our incredible landscapes. Around lunchtime, we head of to the Coromandel to discover them first-hand.
We’ll walk together out along the cliffs down to Cathedral Cove (which you might recognise from the Chronicles of Narnia films). Beautiful in its own right, with perfect beaches and massive rock arches and columns it’s one of the most popular spots in the Coromandel and for good reason!
DAY 7 – COROMANDEL TO AUCKLAND
Beautiful remote beaches, dense wooded forest and clear blue waters make the Coromandel one of New Zealand’s favourite getaways. At low tide, we’ll make our way out to the world-famous Hot Water Beach.
When the tide’s out, you can dig a hole in the sand where natural hot springs bubble up to create your own personal hot tub!
Finally, we head to Auckland, New Zealand’s biggest city. Auckland sits on the narrow sliver of land where the Northland peninsula tapers south to meet the rest of the North Island. So the sea is always nearby, and it isn’t difficult to guess the origin of its nickname ‘City of Sails’.
We arrive around 5pm, where we’ll say our final farewells before a final night of accommodation – you don’t want to pass up the chance to sleep in! Or if you have a few spare days, why not hop on our three day Bay of Islands tour?
DAY 8 – AUCKLAND
Your tour ends after breakfast on Day 8.
We’re sure you’ll have a whole lot of incredible memories to take home with you.
We’ve shown you our New Zealand – we hope we will see you again.
Haere tū atu, hoki tū mai.