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Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, widely regarded as one of the world's best one-day treks
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Marvel at the geothermal wonders, age-old forests, and pristine lakes of Rotorua
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Take in the enchanting trees of Whirinaki, one of the world's last prehistoric rainforests!
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            [Description] => hikers mineral lake
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            [Description] => maori culture
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Your Guides

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The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.

Justin C.

Justin grew up on a dairy farm in the Manawatu region of the North Island. Wanderlust drew him away to work as a Department of Conservation ranger around the country, interspersed with periods of travel in Asia and South America. For over a decade, guiding has fulfilled Justin’s wandering spirit. A degree in sustainable communities coupled with an immense knowledge of New Zealand histories makes Justin a compelling person to chat to. Along the way, Justin has gained an intimate knowledge of New Zealand’s natural and cultural history. He delights in communicating this knowledge and connecting other travellers with New Zealand’s special places.

Louis D.

Born and raised on Waiheke Island in the Hauraki Gulf, Louis spent his childhood enjoying the great outdoors and being introduced to Aotearoa’s conservation ethos. Homegrown and overseas adventures, a degree in International relations and Sociology, and working/volunteering across a range of conservation projects followed. All of which has culminated in Louis’ passion for connecting people to Aotearoa’s outdoor heritage, places, and species. A lover of stories, Louis hopes his enthusiasm and anecdotes will bring these places to life.

Matt H.

Growing up in New Zealand and Australia, Matt has always been curious about the world around him and for the past 15 years, he has made it his mission to experience the great NZ outdoors. An active leader in the New Zealand Alpine Club, Matt has loved hiking and running in the wilderness areas of the mountainous central North Island, and like all good Kiwis, he’s been ticking off the best of the South Island too. Matt has more than a few strings to his bow, and a cracking laugh he always travels with.

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Meet your MT Sobek guide at Auckland airport and enjoy a transfer to your hotel in the heart of the city. In the afternoon, meet your group at the lobby bar, then head out to a waterfront restaurant for your first taste of New Zealand.
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                    [Latitude] => 37.0029 S
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                    [Headline] => Explore the Hauraki Gulf & Sip Wine on Waiheke Island
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Hop on the ferry to Waiheke Island, the largest island in Hauraki Gulf. Stroll along its undulating shorelines and admire gorgeous coastal headlands, vine-laden landscapes, olive groves, and pristine beaches of white sand. Transfer by shuttle to one of the island\'s most established wineries and enjoy a tasting of superb New Zealand wines before lunch. After returning to Auckland mid-afternoon, enjoy a relaxed evening and dinner on your own.
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                    [Travel_Type] => 50-minute cruise and 10-minute shuttle transfer
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                    [Latitude] => 36.20 S
                    [Longitude] => 175.05 E
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                    [Headline] => Drive to Rotorua & Hike the Tarawera Trail 
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Drive to the town of Rotorua in the Bay of Plenty region, a beautiful area of lakes, geothermal landscapes, and lush forests. Starting from Lake Tarawera, one of 18 lakes in the region, embark on the Tarawera Trail that meanders through the bush to heavenly sand-strewn beaches where you will enjoy a trail lunch and a refreshing dip. Return by water taxi. After settling in the hotel, enjoy a lovely buffet dinner at the hotel restaurant.
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                    [Travel_Type] => 3.5-hour drive to Rotorua, 20-minute water taxi 
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                    [Latitude] => 38.0816 S
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Hike in the majestic Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tane Conservation Park, an ancient podocarp forest with moss-laden trees up to 1,000-years old and 200-feet tall. Take a riverside loop hike, learning about this home of Ngati Whare people as well as more than 50 endangered species. Stop by a waterfall for a picnic. Back in Rotorua, visit Ohinemutu, a historic Maori village, and the vibrant Anglican church on Rotorua lakeshore. In the evening, feast on the traditional hangi dinner prepared in a ground pit and admire a Maori cultural performance.
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                    [Latitude] => 38.2824 S
                    [Longitude] => 176.854 E
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Start the day at the spectacular Waiotapu thermal reserve — an otherworldly landscape of steaming vents, sinter craters, bizarre colored lakes, and mud pools. Weather-permitting, savor a picnic by the mighty Huka Falls or take a swim in the lake. In the late afternoon, set off by public boat to explore Lake Taupo and visit contemporary Maori rock carvings in the northern ignimbrite cliffs (only accessible by water). Dine on the launch and soak up astonishing views across the lake to the volcanoes.
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                    [Latitude] => 38.4825 S
                    [Longitude] => 175.5428 E
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                    [Headline] => Journey from Taupo to Tongariro National Park
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Start with breakfast at the hotel, then drive south skirting the eastern shore of New Zealand\'s largest lake, Taupo, formed by massive volcanic eruptions. Drive and hike around the bush-fringed Lake Rotopounamu, keeping an eye out for birds like the North Island robin and kaka. Rest over a picnic lunch at a beach, and then continue on to Tongariro National Park. Join your guide on one of the lower mountain walks, Taranaki Falls or Silica springs, either on the way to the hotel or after check-in.
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                    [Headline] => Hike Tongariro Alpine Crossing
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Set out for a full day of hiking over the UNESCO-listed Tongariro Alpine Crossing to the craters of Mount Tongariro. This world-renowned trek features striking volcanic terrain, old lava flows, active craters, steam vents, and emerald lakes. The track can be steep and rocky at times; as such, it is best suited to hikers who are very fit. Guests who prefer a more restful day can explore the area, walk to 50-foot Taranaki Falls, see the exhibits in the Park Visitor Center, and enjoy a lunch on their own. 
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                    [Latitude] => 39.21 S
                    [Longitude] => 175.23 E
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In the morning, embark on a scenic drive to Wellington, New Zealand\'s vibrant capital. Along the way, take in the dazzling imagery of Tongariro National Park, post-glacial river terraces of Rangitikei and the North Wellington coast. Savor an early lunch at a local cafe, and later the farewell drinks at a bar overlooking the marina. Spend the rest of the day exploring this lovely harbor city with a beach-lined waterfront, and a happening craft beer and art scene.
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                    [Dinner] => 1
                    [Travel_Type] => 4.5-hour private transfer
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                    [Latitude] => -41.297
                    [Longitude] => 174.771
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Trip participants who are doing the North Island journey finish the tour in Wellington. This cozy and walkable city, often called the San Francisco of New Zealand, makes for an excellent extension of the trip for a day or two. Those who are continuing on the South Island leg of the trip will take a quick mid-morning transfer to Wellington airport, followed by a 45-minute scenic flight to the town of Nelson.
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    [ActivityHighlight] => Moderately paced hikes up to five miles, with one 12-mile, on mostly rugged dirt trails. Also includes cultural walking tours, scenic drives, and boat trips.
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Accommodations

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Comfortable, contemporary and amenity-laden hotels and lodges, mostly located by splendid natural sites.

Rydges Rotorua

Comfortable Hotel

Poised by the Redwood forest and overlooking the Whakarewarewa Geothermal Reserve, Rydges Rotorua immerses you in the region's unspoiled natural beauty. Its 203 rooms are modern and comfortable, with A/C and Wi-Fi. The main draw is the year-round geothermal-heated swimming pool, as well as the Champan's restaurant, locally famous for its dishes that couple Pacific flavors with international cuisine.

Copthorne Hotel Wellington Oriental Bay

Comfortable Hotel

Perfect for soaking up the vibe of Wellington, Copthorne Hotel occupies a prime position overlooking the harbor. Each of the 118 modern, well-equipped rooms has a balcony with ocean views, which are also the highlight of the restaurant and cocktail bar. The city's commercial and shopping areas are just a 10-minute stroll away, as are attractions such as the Te Papa Museum.

Skotel Alpine Resort

Comfortable Hotel

The locally owned Skotel Alpine Resort is situated at the foot of Mount Ruapehu in the North Island's Tongariro National Park. It's cozy wood-paneled rooms have a ski-lodge feel and come well-appointed with modern amenities. Enjoy stunning views, excellent service, and great onsite facilities - including a gym, restaurant, and soothing hot tub!

The Park Hotel Ruapehu

Comfortable Hotel

With stunning views of the three volcanoes, the Park Hotel makes the perfect base for your stay in the North Island's Tongariro National Park. The hotel has an adventure lodge feel with simple, comfortable rooms - complete with modern amenities. Unwind in front of the roaring log fire or relax in the hot tub after a day of exploring.

Millennium Hotel and Resort Manuels

Comfortable Hotel

Situated on the shores of New Zealand's largest lake, the Millennium Hotel & Resort is one of Taupo's top hotels. Delight in stunning views of the lake and mountains as you enjoy the artfully decorated accommodations. Its 39 boutique guest rooms are well-equipped with modern amenities including AC, complimentary Wi-Fi, in-room entertainment, laundry services, coffee and tea making facilities, and more. Savor your meal as you gaze at the lake from the onsite restaurant and bar. Then head to the heated swimming pool, private grotto plunge pool, or sauna for ultimate relaxation.

Rydges Auckland Hotel

Comfortable Hotel

The Rydges Auckland Hotel has a prime position in the CBD, close to the harbor and with views over the region. The Rydges Auckland Hotel infuses elements of London sophistication, Sydney cool and New York style, with the bonus warmth of world class Kiwi hospitality, making this one of the finest Auckland CBD hotels.