Ultimate North Island Adventure
Ultimate North Island Adventure
Ultimate North Island Adventure
11 Days Starting and ending in Auckland
Visiting: New Zealand
Tour operator:
Tour code:
UltNorth
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
5 - 14
Trip Styles:
Tour Overview
Discover your favorite part of the North Island as you hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, bike through redwood forests in Rotorua, snorkel or kayak the Poor Knights Islands, and walk through the otherworldly Waitomo Caves.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1:Arrive, Journey North, Waipoua Forest And Footprints Tour
Accommodation Name: The Heads, Hokianga Harbour
Meals Included: Lunch Dinner
Leaving Auckland city behind us, we’ll head North to the small historic boat building village of Paparoa for a picnic lunch. 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
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 toward 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
Accommodation Name: 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
Accommodation Name: 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
Accommodation Name: Sudima Hotel, 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.Hiking:5 kilometers (3 miles), 3 hours, elevation +/- 40 meters (130 feet)Notes:If you're short on time, this is where the 5-day Northland Adventure finishes.
Day 6:Free Day In Auckland
Accommodation Name: Sudima Hotel, Auckland
Known as the city of sails, Auckland sprawls over a narrow isthmus between the sparkling waters of the Waitemata and Manukau Harbours. Close to a third of New Zealand’s population is settled in this area, and it’s home to the largest Polynesian community in the world. Its vibrant, multi-cultural feel makes for a great city experience. Most of Auckland’s activities and attractions are within half an hour of the central city. Take in the spectacular views from natural and man-made landmarks - the region is home to 48 volcanic cones, many of which provide excellent viewing points. Rangitoto Island is arguably Auckland’s most iconic natural landmark, with its distinctive symmetrical cone and easy access just off the coast. At 328 meters (1076 feet), the Sky Tower is the tallest man-made structure in New Zealand offering views of up to 80 kilometers (50 miles) in every direction. For movie enthusiasts, take the day to visit The Shire in Middle Earth, the ultra-realistic fantasy setting for ‘The Hobbit’ and ‘Lord of The Rings’ movie trilogies. Your guides will happily share their favorite haunts and point you in the right direction for your free day today.
Day 7:Visit Te Aroha, Hike Wairere Falls Track
Accommodation Name: Sudima Hotel, Rotorua (Please note, breakfast not included for those people starting the 5-day trip today)
Meals Included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
If you're short on time, this is where 5-day Volcanic North Island Adventure starts.
We’ll pick you up from your hotel and, leaving the city behind us, drive south to the township of Te Aroha. The town is one of the country’s top tourist spots, celebrated for its naturally hot soda waters and Mokena geyser. Today’s hike winds its way amongst tree roots and mossy rocks, and across several bridged river crossings to a lookout platform at the base of the Wairere Falls on the Okauia fault line. Afterwards, we’ll drive to Rotorua, considered the heartland of New Zealand’s Maori culture and the spiritual home of New Zealand’s tangata whenua (original people of the land). Hiking:3.8 miles (6 kilometers), 3-4 hours, elevation +/- 1,250 feet (380 meters)
Day 8:Mountain Bike Whakarewarewa Forest, Visit Te Puia
Accommodation Name: Sudima Hotel, Rotorua
Meals Included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
This morning, we’ll head out to cycle the trails of Whakarewarewa Forest. Cycling in the forest is a real highlight of the trip and we have options to suit all abilities. If you prefer not to cycle, you can stay and soak in the local mineral spas, or explore Rotorua. After a picnic lunch in the forest, we’ll visit Te Puia which is famed for the Te Whakarewarewa geothermal valley – a place of gushing waters, steaming vents, boiling mud pools, and impressive geysers. Tonight you’ll enjoy a cultural performance by members of the Te Arawa tribe and share a traditional feast. A hangi, as it’s known, is prepared by wrapping food and burying it in the earth to cook over hot stones. This healthy cooking method is similar to steaming and imparts a wonderful flavor.Biking:2-8 kilometers (1.5-5 miles), +/-20 meters (65 feet), 3 hours including bike fitting & bike briefing and depending on ability and preferences
Day 9:Hike Rainbow Mountain, Hike To Huka Falls
Accommodation Name: Creel Lodge, Turangi
Meals Included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
We head south out of Rotorua today to hike Rainbow Mountain, aptly named due to the unusual color of the soil. We’ll head up through the native forest past an impressive crater lake for panoramic views over the volcanic plateau. Then after lunch, we’ll follow the track along New Zealand’s longest river, the Waikato, for a spectacular view of Huka Falls and maybe a dip in some natural hot springs. Traveling further south, we follow the shores of Lake Taupo, an enormous volcanic caldera and the site of the world’s largest eruption in the last 70,000 years. We’ll stay on the banks of the Tongariro River, New Zealand’s most famous trout fishing river.Hiking:Rainbow Mountain Hike: 5 kilometers (3 miles), 3 hours. elevation +/- 340 meters (1,115 feet)Hiking:Huka Falls Hike: 3 kilometers (2 miles), 1 hour, elevation +/- 20 meters (65 feet)
Day 10:Hike Tongariro National Park, Soak In Hot Pools
Accommodation Name: Creel Lodge, Turangi
Meals Included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Just south of Turangi are three massive volcanoes (Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu) – located in Tongariro National Park, New Zealand’s oldest national park and the fifth oldest in the world. Today we’ll hike to the Taranaki Falls and Silica Rapids around the base of Mount Ruapehu, both of these hikes showcase a variety of flora from native beech forest to sub-alpine shrublands, each culminating with a spectacular view; Taranaki Falls is 20 meters (65 feet) high and Silica Rapids has water cascading down a series of creamy white terraces.
For more experienced hikers, we have the option to complete the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and this full-day hike is challenging and unforgettable! The trail takes you through arid volcanic terrain that includes emerald lakes, cold mountain springs, lava flows, active craters, and steam vents – it’s unlike anything else in New Zealand. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a more challenging hike in winter (from May until October) with alpine conditions such as snow and ice, and if the weather isn’t suitable for the crossing, we’ll all hike the Taranaki Falls and Silica Rapids. Your option must be confirmed at time of booking. Tonight, you can bathe in some natural thermal springs before having a celebratory dinner for our last night together.Hiking:Tongariro Crossing: 20 kilometers (12 miles), 7-8 hours, elevation +/- 1,000 meters (3,280 feet)Hiking:Taranaki Falls: 6 kilometers (3.7 miles), 2 hours, elevation +/- 120 meters (393 feet)Hiking:Silica Rapids: 7 kilometers (4.3 miles), 2-3 hours, elevation +/- 220 meters (721 feet)
Day 11:Visit Waitomo Caves, Depart For Home
Accommodation Name: No Accommodation
Meals Included: Breakfast Lunch
For our last day together, we’ll head to the spectacular Waitomo Caves for a morning of caving. For those keen, you’ll head down to explore an underground cave system. You’ll be fitted with a wetsuit, helmet, headlamp and rubber tube in order to float down a subterranean stream, slide down waterfalls and at one point, switch off your headlamp to check out the incredible glowworms that live on the limestone ceiling of the cave. A shower and some hot soup complete the picture. Alternatively, take in the subterranean beauty on foot with a guided walk through Ruakuri cave system where you’ll learn all about the geological significance of the area. Afterward, we’ll head back to Auckland where your trip finishes. We’ll have you at the airport in time to catch evening flights back home, or down south for one of our South Island trips.
Trip Notes
Check out our Q&As
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You are covered by our Active Adventures Assurance policy.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1996
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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
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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.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Travellers Against Plastic
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
No
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes,
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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.
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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.
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Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?
No
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Free Date Changes
Active Adventures allows you to make 1 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 90 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Active Adventures allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform active adventures, 90 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Active Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 500 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of active adventures charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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COVID-19 Proof of Vaccination or Testing For trips in the United States:?Vaccination is not required. All guests must adhere to the current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regulations and guidelines.
For all International trips (all destinations except the United States):?All guests aged 13 years and above must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at least fourteen (14) days prior to the commencement of travel.?
We accept vaccines authorized or recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control (CDC), European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).
Adults who cannot be vaccinated due to valid medical exemptions will need to provide a negative COVID-19 test result (official paper or official electronic record) showing the test was carried out no later than 72 hours before the trip starts. Testing must be performed by an approved entity.
Proof of full COVID-19 vaccination or negative test (where applicable) must be provided prior to the start of your trip (only official vaccination card or electronic record will be accepted).
Proof of Vaccination or Negative Test must include identifying information (full name), as well as the vaccination or the test dates.
Proof of Vaccination must demonstrate the final dose of the vaccine was administered at least fourteen (14) days prior to the commencement of your trip.
You will be required to upload Proof of Vaccination into your Travel Wallet prior to departure.
If Proof of Vaccination or a Negative Test is not produced at the commencement of travel with us, you will not be allowed to travel. You will not be eligible to receive a refund of any sums paid to us if this occurs.??
Guests must comply with any additional vaccination or testing requirements and/or additional health and safety measures that are required to travel in their chosen destination. We recommend using?CIBT for up-to-date requirements.?
We do not grant any exceptions to this vaccination and testing policy.?
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