North Island Adventure Itinerary | Hiking New Zealand (HikingNZ)

DAY 1

Auckland - Rotorua

9.4km (5.8 miles), 2 hours hiking, +/- 14m elevation

Leaving the city of Auckland behind us, we head south to where you can stretch your legs on a peaceful walk alongside the crystal clear waters of the Putāruru Blue Springs, one of New Zealand’s purest water sources. The trail winds through lush farmland and native bush leading to vivid turquoise pools and bubbling springs.

Afterwards, we'll drive to Rotorua, considered the heartland of New Zealand's Māori culture and the spiritual home of New Zealand's tangata whenua (original people of the land) and visit Te Puia, home to the dramatic Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley where steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and powerful geysers bring the landscape to life. As evening falls, you’ll enjoy a cultural performance by members of the local Te Arawa tribe before sharing a traditional hāngī feast. Cooked slowly beneath the earth over heated stones, this time honored Māori cooking method creates beautifully tender food infused with rich, smoky flavor. Includes lunch and dinner.

Rotorua is rich in Māori culture and geothermal activity.

Accommodation

Sudima Lake Rotorua sits right on the shore offering breath-taking vistas across the water. It’s also just a short stroll from Rotorua's vibrant CBD and Convention & Events Centre. This well-appointed home-away-from-home has all the facilities and features you’d expect from a Qualmark 4-star hotel, as well as a few that set it apart, like the heated pool.

DAY 2

Rotorua - Huka Falls

5.5km (3.4mi), 1 -2 hours hiking, +/- 196m (643ft) elevation

This morning we’ll follow a winding trail through one of the North Island’s most peaceful pockets of native forest as we make our way to the Blue Lakes. The hike is gentle and rewarding and the well formed tracks weaves alongside streams so clear you can see every stone beneath the surface. Beneath towering trees and native birdsong overhead, discover calm blue lakes tucked deep in the forest, their colours shifting with the light.

After lunch, we change gears for an exhilarating jet boat ride along the Waikato River to the spectacular Huka Falls. Feel the spray on your face as the boat powers through narrow river canyons and across crystal clear water before arriving at the falls, where more than 58,000 gallons of water thunder through a dramatic volcanic gorge every second. It’s a highlight of this trip, a loved New Zealand activity, and a whole lot of fun! Tonight, our accommodation is on the peaceful banks of the Tongariro River, with the sound of flowing water right outside your door. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Accommodation

Creel Lodge’s unique location situated alongside the famous Tongariro River, and its beautiful garden setting, make your stay here special. All suites have their own outdoor balcony allowing you to immerse in the tranquil native bush setting. Enjoy a relaxing meal while you delight in the birdsong made possible by the safe haven the gardens and trees of the Lodge provide for a variety of birds.

DAY 3

Tongariro National Park

Up to 20km (12mi), up to 8 hours hiking, +/- 1100m elevation

Just south of Tūrangi rise the three great volcanoes of Tongariro National Park: Tongariro, Ngāuruhoe, and Ruapehu. New Zealand’s oldest national park, and the fifth oldest in the world, this remarkable landscape is shaped by fire, ice, and time.

Today, we’ll explore the lower slopes of Mount Ruapehu on hikes to Taranaki Falls and the Silica Rapids. Wander through native beech forest and open alpine shrublands before arriving at two very different volcanic wonders: the 65 foot (20 meter) Taranaki Falls plunging over an ancient lava flow, and the Silica Rapids, where mineral rich water tumbles over creamy white terraces.

For experienced hikers, there’s the option to tackle the legendary Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This challenging full day hike traverses dramatic volcanic terrain dotted with emerald lakes, steaming vents, lava fields, and active craters. It’s raw, rugged, and unlike anywhere else in New Zealand. This option must be confirmed at the time of booking.

Tonight, ease tired legs in natural thermal springs before gathering for a celebratory dinner together! Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Alternative options to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing:
Taranaki Falls Hiking: 6km (3.7 mi), 2 hours hiking +/- 120m (393ft) elevation
Silica Rapids Hiking: 7 km (4.3 mi), 2-3 hours hiking, +/- 220m (721ft) elevation

Views from the legendary Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Accommodation

Stay a second night at Creel Lodge.

DAY 4

Waitomo Caves

Today, we’ll make our way to the world-famous Waitomo Caves, a natural limestone formation known for its magical glowworms. You have a choice of two ways to experience the caves alongside specialist guides: a walk (dry option), or a high adrenaline black water rafting experience (wet option).

Whichever experience you opt for, you’ll have the chance to see thousands of glowworms sparkling like stars above you. The walking option takes you through Ruakuri Cave where you’ll learn about the geological significance of the area. On the rafting option, you’ll be fitted with a wetsuit, boots, and helmet, then given an inflatable tube to float through the cave system and jump down underground waterfalls. The glow worm viewing part of the experience for both options is majestic, peaceful, and is sure to be an experience you’ll never forget.

You’ll have some free time to freshen up before we come together for dinner and reflect on the magic of our caving experience. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

It is important to let our team know if you have any medical conditions or fears of dark or enclosed spaces.

Accommodation

Stay in Hidden Lake Hotel Cambridge. Located behind a stand of mature trees in Cambridge, a forest is reflected in the mirrored waters of Lake Te Koutu – the hidden lake.This is a pristine destination, unique to New Zealand. The authentic kiwi post card you see in your mind’s eye stretches out before you. All the classic charm and allure travellers come looking for is found here, in the green hills and misty forest, in the pitched rooves and welcome hospitality.

DAY 5

Sanctuary Mountain - Depart for Home

Our final day together ends on a high with a visit to Sanctuary Mountain, an ancient eco-sanctuary alive with towering native trees, lush ferns, birdsong, and regenerating forest.

We’ll take a guided walk, learning about the land’s history, native flora, and wildlife while keeping watch for kākā, tūī, and fantail birds around us. You can also climb the 16-metre high viewing tower for sweeping views of the forest canopy.

We’ll enjoy a picnic lunch together and then continue to Auckland for hotel or airport drop-off. Includes breakfast and lunch

North Island Adventure

Auckland - Rotorua

9.4km (5.8 miles), 2 hours hiking, +/- 14m elevation

Rotorua - Huka Falls

5.5km (3.4mi), 1 -2 hours hiking, +/- 196m (643ft) elevation

Tongariro National Park

Up to 20km (12mi), up to 8 hours hiking, +/- 1100m elevation

Waitomo Caves

Sanctuary Mountain - Depart for Home

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