Meet your North Island guide and the rest of the group in the Rydges Hotel foyer at 6.30am before driving south through classic patchwork green farming country alongside the Waikato River. We make a quick cafe stop enroute to Waitomo for those who need a coffee and bite to eat. Arriving at the Waitomo Caves area descend into the vaulted galleries of the Ruakuri Cave with its limestone formations and crystals. Be enchanted by the thousands of tiny glow worms that cling to the cave ceiling and mimic a starlit night sky.
Later we emerge into the sunshine and wander on a loop trail through an outstanding limestone canyon. We arrive in the volcanically active area of Rotorua late afternoon. Rotorua is also the centre of Māori cultural tourism in New Zealand and tonight we enjoy an evening meal in the city. Includes lunch and dinner.
The 4-star Distinction Rotorua is conveniently located just a few minutes from the city centre and the famous Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve. The hotel’s beautiful garden setting, heated outdoor swimming pool and underground grotto spas, make this hotel the perfect place to relax and unwind as you begin your travels through New Zealand.
A short drive leads us to the stunning forests and beaches of Lake Tarawera. Take a scenic water taxi ride to the lake end. From here we hike back alongside this beautifully clear lake, enjoying the shade that towering tree ferns and ignimbrite cliffs offer. Plunge into the lake to cool off at any one of the tiny pumice beaches as you wait for the others to catch up. There are astonishing views all along this trail, and usually the chance for a natural hot creek dip along the way. This is an expansive wilderness of forest, lakes and volcanoes.
After we return, we have the chance to look around Rotorua including the short Redwoods Trail. Later explore through the historic waterfront area including the fascinating Faith church. Rotorua is also the centre of Maori cultural tourism in New Zealand and late afternoon we enjoy an evening meal and cultural performance. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Stay a second night at Distinction Hotel, Rotorua
In the morning we explore some of the amazing thermal areas located a little south of Rotorua. Wander along boardwalks that connect pools of bubbling mud, mineralised hot pools and plumes of rising steam, and wonder at the uniqueness of this area. Grab a cuppa before we drive south to Huka Falls and feel the power as the huge Waikato River gets pinched through a narrow rock corridor.
Enjoy a café lunch at the lakeside town of Taupō before heading south around Lake Taupō’s shores to New Zealand’s first national park - Tongariro. The next two nights are spent in a hotel on the edge of the park, providing a great opportunity for you to explore the area at your leisure. In the afternoon hike to Taranaki Falls, cascading 20 metres over a 15,000 year old lava flow. Enjoy dinner with the group in the comfort of your hotel. Includes breakfast and dinner.
The Park Hotel offers a warm and hospitable vibe along with stunning views of the three sacred peaks of Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro. After the day's hike, sink into one of the two crystal clear outdoor hot-tubs. Complimentary access is available to all guests. These are located in the picturesque internal courtyard adjacent to the restaurant. Enjoy the free wifi from your freshly renovated rooms.
Join the guide today for a full-day hike of the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, regarded as one of the best day walks in the world. The well-built track climbs, steeply at times, to the craters of Mt Tongariro. Stop and admire the views of the Red Crater, Emerald Lakes and steaming vents that make this hike so outstanding. After what is often a long and physically challenging day, enjoy a well-earned dinner and swap stories with your hiking group.
Those who prefer a more restful day can find plenty to do at the village: Soda Springs walk, Taranaki Falls walk, or simply drink coffee and view the great exhibits at the Park Visitor Centre. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Enjoy a second night at The Park Hotel, Tongariro.
Rest your legs this morning as we drive south through rolling green hill country to the capital city of Wellington. Stroll along the fabulous waterfront and absorb some of New Zealand’s history in the national museum - Te Papa, or simply get lost admiring the heritage houses along one of the many improbably steep streets. Nowhere is very far in Wellington. There is a vibrant café and restaurant scene here – enjoy. Includes breakfast.
