Overview of your experience

So much of Aotearoa New Zealand’s North Island remains untouched and unvisited. Tumbling rivers descend from primeval rainforest and ochre-red volcanoes tower above lunar valleys. Sweeping tussock lands, pristine lakes, geothermal marvels. Join us to explore it in our uniquely Kiwi way.

Journey through this landscape with a small group, stepping out on multi-day hikes to backcountry huts and peaceful campsites. Closer to nature, further from the crowds.

In between the two multi-day hikes, you’ll stay in comfortable lodgings and head out on day walks, peruse small towns, witness geothermal marvels, visit significant cultural sites, plunge into hot and cold streams and live like a Kiwi for a while.

This trip is shaped by the egalitarian culture of New Zealand’s backcountry. Everyone pitches in and works as a team. The load is shared and so are the rewards; hearty meals and plenty of laughter make for time well spent.

Our expert Kiwi guides show you the way, sharing stories and insights that bring the land to life.

If you seek more than just highlights and are happy to meet nature on its terms, the Ultimate North Island is your trip. Prior multi-day hiking experience is not required, just good fitness and a love of the outdoors.

Choose to see the North Island Kiwi-style and find camaraderie, challenge and wild beauty. Could this be the adventure you’ve been looking for?

Want to know more? We've written all about it in our Kiwi-style trips blog.

Highlights of your experience

Rotorua’s otherworldly geothermal features
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, rainbow pools, volcanic craters and sinter terraces
Hike around tree-fern fringed Lake Tarawera and relax in hidden natural hot pools
Multi-day hike in the primeval rainforest of Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park
Lake Taupō, the largest caldera lake in New Zealand
Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of the finest day walks in the world
Three days trekking amongst active volcanoes in Tongariro National Park, a dual World Heritage area
Wellington City, our vibrant and windswept ‘cool little capital’

Ultimate North Island

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Overview of your experience

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