NEW ADVENTURE! A cultural Kiwi adventure through the magnificent North Island

This unique itinerary squeezes a lot of adventure and cultural activities into just seven days, so you’ll see much more on this trip than in two weeks on your own. This adventure also combines well with one or both of our South Island trips. The kind of rugged untouched beauty that you’ll see on this trip is getting harder and harder to find on this planet. The native bush is laced with walking tracks, which
lead to secluded natural hot springs and historic Kauri dams. Rotorua is a region of fascinating geothermal activity, where the immense power of inner Earth bubbles to the surface. This trip explores the geothermal attractions, uncovers the rich cultural past, and takes you over the world’s tallest commercially rafted waterfall. The powerful beauty of the volcanic landscape that surrounds Taupo provides a dramatic backdrop to a wonderful sea kayaking experience. Finally, glide through the darkness on a water borne barge and admire the deep silence of a cave where glow worms overhead simulate an eerie underground sky.

Activities

7 days of moderate hiking, sea kayaking, rafting, cultural encounters, caving

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Raft the Kaituna which boasts the tallest commercially rafted waterfall in the world
• Explore Lake Taupo’s beautiful coastline by kayak, while learning about the region's incredible volcanic creation
• Hike one of New Zealand’s most impressive native rainforests, Whirinaki Forest
• Experience Maori Culture in an authentic Maori village

Duration: 7 days Start Location: Auckland End Location: Auckland

BRIEF Itinerary

• Day 1 : Welcome to the city of sails, Auckland

  Meet in Auckland, mid-morning. Then travel south east to the Coromandel Township, which is situated on the McGregor Bay inlet in the beautiful Coromandel region.

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  Day 2 : Sea Kayaking the Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve

  Sea kayak through sea caves, interact with the local marine life and enjoy the magnificent coastline. After a morning on the oeacn we head south to the city of Rotorua.

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  Day 3 : Thermal Wonderland

  A full day exploring Rotorua's natural wonders. Take a hike through internationally recognised Whirinaki Forest, following a pristine river to an impressive waterfall and breathtaking canyon, and finishing with a soak in one of Rotorua's special natural hot springs.

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  Day 4 : Kaituna Rafting Experience and Hangi

  This morning you will take on the mighty Kaituna, which boasts the highest commercially rafted waterfall (21ft) in the world. In the evening you will take part in a Maori cultural experience.

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  Day 5 : Lake Taupo

  Explore Lake Taupo's beautiful coastline by sea kayak while learning about the region's incredible volcanic creation and about the area's local history.

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  Day 6 : The Tongariro Alpine Crossing

  An early start today as we have a full day hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This hike is is rated as the best one day trek in New Zealand.

• Day 7 : Depart Auckland

  We’ll have a early breakfast before heading back north to Auckland. (Your flight home can depart anytime after 12pm)

Properties shown are representative of the accommodations we use on this trip, may not be inclusive of all accommodations we use, and are subject to change.

Expert leadership is the key to an exciting, unforgettable experience. Our trips feature gifted leaders for whom leading trips is a true vocation. Besides showing you wonders you’d never find on your own, they make sure everything runs smoothly and safely without a hitch. They are knowledgeable about all aspects of your trip, and take great pleasure in sharing their insights with you. More than just guides, they positively elevate your experience by being teachers, companions, and the best of friends. You’ll be in good hands with them every step of the way.

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