North Island Adventure

This morning, we’ll head out to hike Rainbow Mountain, aptly named due to the unusual colour of the soil. We’ll head up through the native forest past an impressive crater lake for panoramic views over the volcanic plateau. Okere Falls is our next stop, with a short hike along the track where we’ll view the magnificent waterfalls from viewing platforms, and we could be lucky enough to catch white water rafters making their way down the Kaituna River. If you prefer not to hike today, you can stay and soak in the local mineral spas or explore Rotorua. 

After re-grouping from the morning’s activities, 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, we’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 flavour. Accommodation: Sudima Hotel, Rotorua. Includes breakfast, lunch and 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 September) 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. Accommodation: Creel Lodge, Turangi. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.