Northland Adventure

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5 Days From

~~$4599~~

$4392

Northland Adventure

5 Days Starting and ending in Auckland, New Zealand

Visiting: Auckland, Waipoua Kauri Forest, Tane Mahuta, Te Pōhue, Cape Brett Hike & Water Taxi, Poor Knights Islands, Coastline Treeworks

Tour operator:

Active Adventures

Tour code:

UltNorthN

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

5 - 14

Physical rating:

Medium, 3: Step It Up

Age range:

16-80

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

From:

$4599

$4392 Exclusive Tourhub Members Discount: -$207

NB: Prices correct on 17-May-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Immerse yourself in the North Island's nature and culture Take five days to discover the charms of the North Island. Explore colossal kauri forests, dive or snorkel the Poor Knights Islands, and learn about the Maori culture as you make your way along some of the best coastline of New Zealand.

Highlights

Watched a birdlife in waipoua forest.
Explore Te Pouahi Reserve and Bay of Islands on walking tour.
Hike to Cape Brett through the Manawahuna Scenic Reserve.
Bay of Islands from the ridge tops and get magnificent views and you may even see dolphins and seals from your vantage point high up on the cliffs.
Hear all about the islands’ history including their occupation by ancient Maori.

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Arrive, Journey North, Waipoua Forest And Footprints Tour

Location: Auckland, Waipoua Kauri Forest, Tane Mahuta

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: The Heads, Hokianga Harbour

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner,

Leaving the city behind us, we'll follow the road along the banks of the Wairoa River and head north to Waipoua Forest, where we'll stretch our legs, greeted by native birdlife as we pass beneath huge kauri trees. 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 51.2 meters (168 feet), and with a trunk girth of 13.7 meters (45 feet), this silent giant, with ancient limbs, seems to grasp at the stars.Hiking:3 hours, relaxed stroll

Day 2 : Te Pouahi Reserve, Waitangi River Walk, Bay Of Islands

Location: Te Pōhue

Accommodation: Lodge

Accommodation Name: Kingsgate Auto Lodge, Paihia

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,

After breakfast, we’ll board a water taxi to the other side of the Hokianga Harbour to walk the sand dunes at Te Pouahi Reserve. We’ll take some sandboards along too, for those who’re keen to take the fast route down! More than 1000 years ago, Maori warrior chief Kupe and his people were the first to arrive in New Zealand, landing on the shores of Hokianga Harbour. The area was also one of the first points of Maori and European contact. With our sandboarding fix satisfied, 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 which provides an opportunity to pass through the interior of a mature mangrove forest, and we know we'll be approaching the end of the walk as we'll hear the thundering roar of the Falls. Later, we’ll head to the Jewel of the Bay of Islands, Paihia, a bustling seaside town with golden sand beaches.Hiking:12 kilometers (7.5 mile), 5 hours, elevation +/- 20 meters (65 feet)

Day 3:Hike Cape Brett

Location: Cape Brett Hike & Water Taxi

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Pacific Rendezvous Motel or Ocean Resort Hotel, Tutukaka

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,

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 2. 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. Hiking:5 kilometers (3 miles), 3 hours, elevation +/- 473 meters (1,550 feet)

Day 4 : Cruise Poor Knights Islands, Snorkel Or Kayak

Location: Poor Knights Islands

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Pacific Rendezvous Motel or Ocean Resort Hotel, Tutukaka

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,

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 Maori. 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. Notes: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, Depart

Location: Coastline Treeworks, Auckland

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch,

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, when we'll wish you farewell.Hiking:5 kilometers (3 miles), 3 hours, elevation +/- 40 meters (130 feet)

What's Included

Accommodation

All accommodations for the duration of your trip
Fully Guided

Our own highly experienced guides, driver, and cook, with you from start to finish on this tour.
Meals

All meals except where indicated in the itinerary
Transport

Transportation in our air-conditioned vans - safe, clean, modern, and comfortable!
Industry-leading Guest-to-Guide ratio (averaging 6:1)
Your own ‘Travel Wallet’, 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'
Unlimited snacks to keep you fueled
Special ‘Wow!’ moments you'll never forget
All activities outlined in the itinerary
All necessary equipment (well-maintained and safe) for activities
All park and other entry fees

What's Not Included

Additional Services

Gratuities for your guides at the end of your fabulous trip
Insurance

Travel insurance
International Travel

International flights are not included.
Optional

Optional extra activities
15% NZ Goods and Services Tax (GST)
Alcoholic beverages
Gear on packing list (optional to rent some equipment)

Trip Notes

Click here to read the trip notes

Check out our Q&As

What is the minimum group size?

The min group size is 5 peoples.
Are all entrance fees included in the price?

Yes, all park and other entry fees are included.
What is the tipping policy?

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.
Are flights included in this tour?

International/Domestic Flights are not included.
What is the maximum group size?

The max group size is 14 peoples.

What is the fitness level required to do this tour?

Activity Level 3: Step It Up, I love an active vacation. Engaging in a challenging activity with a difficult goal, such as reaching a summit, is exactly what I need to unwind in the evenings.Hiking: Typically, 3-6 hours per day on well-formed backcountry trails. Expect some significant gradient inclines and declines. Altitude: Your trip may include some moderate altitude areas, though these don't form the focus of the trip and are generally manageable. Biking: 1-3 hours on well-formed paths or roads where you can expect some hills with moderate climbs and descents. Kayaking: 1-3 hours, entry-level sea kayaking with specialist guides and stable boats. Other activities (i.e. caving): Always optional and very little exertion required. A highlight for many!
Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

Yes, Local English speaking guide on this tour.
Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

As detailed in itinerary.
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

You are covered by our Active Adventures Assurance policy.
How long has the tour company been trading?

Since 1996
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

Our trips attract a wide range of people from all different backgrounds, countries and ages, which makes our small group adventures all the more interesting and fun. All our people tend to enjoy active lifestyles, great food, good company and new experiences. If this sounds like you, then you’ll be in good company
What documents will I receive before I travel?

We send online booking information via our club page you’ll gain access to your trip notes, destination information, a detailed gear list and all the information you need for your trip. There are a few things to fill in – medical and dietary information, extra accommodation requests, gear hire requests etc. – to ensure you are well prepared for your adventure vacation.
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

Travellers Against Plastic
Can I join the tour once it has departed?

No
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

Yes,
What policies are in place for Covid-19?

When it comes to the safety of our guests, it has always been our number one priority. We’ve introduced strict protocols to adhere to current Covid safety guidelines that are relative to the destination, country and location of your adventure – these are dependent on the current rules and restrictions that are in place at the time of your trip.
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

Health and safety are just as important as the amazing places in the most stunning parts of the world we travel. Another focus of ours is having a good place to rest and rejuvenate at the end of a busy day, and to make sure we are fully charged for the next day’s activities, so you’ll always find yourself in a clean, comfortable room.
Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

No

Reviews of this operator

Carmelita Perez

Great Company

20-Mar-2020

Active Adventures is a great way to go if your idea of a perfect trip is getting out and hiking, bicycling and kayaking in some of the most beautiful countryside in the world, with guides who are local, experienced, fun, flexible and take excellent care of their clientele.

Excellent

Dave, United States

Northern Italy Adventure, Dolce Vita

01-Oct-2021

My wife and I went on the Dolce Vita trip with Active Adventures and we both feel that it was one of our top 3 holidays ever. We LOVED our guides (Andrea & Enrico - one for the mountains and one for the Lakes Region kayaking). The natural beauty was amazing but the care our guides took of the group was truly beyond our expectations. Bravo to Active Adventures for partnering with such amazing local guides who are not only knowledgeable but funny and a true pleasure to be around. We LOVED this trip and plan to do more!

Jodi, United States

Tortuga, November 2021

08-Nov-2021

The trip was wonderful – better than ever imagined. Snorkelling was the highlight of the trip. I never thought we would snorkel so close to sea turtles and with sea lions – it was fantastic. Walking near blue-footed boobies and their chicks and stepping around sea lions, it was unbelievable. We even got up close to white-tipped sharks. We had a group of 13 that went In September 2021, and it was a truly remarkable experience for all of us.

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Tuesday - Saturday

Sep 03, 2024 - Sep 07, 2024

~~$4599~~ $4392