New Zealand – North Island Multisport
8 days, Auckland to Auckland
Itinerary Notes
Please note that during your Karangahake Gorge Cycling excursion on Day 2 of your adventure, an E-bike upgrade is available at an additional cost of NZ $50. This can be arranged with the CEO on Day 1 of the trip at the welcome meeting.
When arranging your transportation, such as flights, please take into consideration the below time restrictions for joining and departing from your group. With these times, we have taken into account travel time to/from the airport in the given destination and required time for check-in or baggage collection/immigration.
Itinerary
Day 1Auckland
Arrive to your hotel by 3pm today to jump straight into the action with an exclusive introduction to the All Blacks, New Zealand's national rugby union team. Experience the mighty Haka and then opt to grab dinner with your group.
Please book any arriving flights to land by 1pm into Auckland.
Jump right into your adventure by adding the 'Auckland Sailing: America's Cup Experience' extra to your tour. Work with a crew to sail around Auckland's Waitemata Harbouron a competitive yacht, and take in the stunning views. PLEASE NOTE: If booking this extra, a pre-night in Auckland is highly recommended as this activity may start early in the morning on Day 1.
If you are interested in visiting the Hobbiton Movie Set, we recommended that you book additional pre-trip accommodations and purchase a day trip from Auckland on (or prior to) Day 1 of this tour.
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
All Blacks Experience
Experience the mighty Haka and learn all about the history of the world famous All Black national rugby union team in this interactive experience. This private guided immersion will take you on a uniquely New Zealand journey.
Optional Activities - Day 1 HideShow
Waiheke Island Excursion
45-130NZD per personTake a ferry ride to Waiheke Island for a quick, fun getaway. Swim or kayak at white-sand beaches in the Hauraki Gulf. Tour the island's tracks and bush reserves, or sample your way through some of the island’s 19 boutique wineries (the island produces some of New Zealand’s finest reds).
Auckland Sailing: America's Cup Experience (Pre Tour)
195NZD per personAs part of the boat crew, you'll work together with your teammates to sail around Auckland's Waitemata Harbour in this competitive yacht. Either take the helm and participate or sit back and enjoy the spectacle - the choice is yours.
Accommodation
Below is an example of the hotel we may use in this city. For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher.
Oaks Auckland Hotel (or similar)
Day 2Auckland/Rotorua
Enjoy a morning cycle through the beautiful Karangahake Gorge, then travel on to the lakes region of Rotorua. En route to Rotorua visit Okere falls.
Please note that an E-bike upgrade is available at an additional cost of NZ $50. This can be arranged with the CEO on Day 1 of the trip at the welcome meeting.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Karangahake Gorge Cycling
Enjoy beautiful scenery on this interesting ride through Karangahake Gorge that combines history, nature, and adventure all in one trip! Follow the historic Paeroa to Waihi rail line. Cycle old lines and through a tunnel along the river that runs through the gorge. Take it easy, if you wish – this trail is suitable for cyclists with little experience and offers lots to take in on the way.
Please note that an E-bike upgrade is available at an additional cost of NZ $50. This can be arranged with the CEO on Day 1 of the trip at the welcome meeting.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodation
Sudima Lake Rotorua (or similar)
Day 3Rotorua
Enjoy a free morning in Rotorua, a town in a geothermal area with boiling mud and hotpools. Opt to go whitewater rafting, go hiking, or hit the spa. Later in the afternoon, visit the New Zealand Arts and Crafts Institute to speak to local Maori carvers and tuck into a delicious Hangi meal cooked underground.
This region of New Zealand is renowned for its geothermal qualities. Enjoy free time to experience the regions' geothermal wonders. Opt to go white water rafting or indulge in the therapeutic hot springs.
Free Time
Enjoy free time in Rotorua to enjoy one of the many optional activities available in the area.
Te Puia Te Ra Experience with Lunch
Join your Maori guide for a tour of the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute and speak with local carvers. After your exploration, experience a late lunch at a Hangi meal cooked in the ground using the steam from the geothermal activity.
Optional Activities - Day 3 HideShow
Zorbing
45-75NZD per personHop into a giant inflatable ball and take a thrilling ride down Mt Ngongotaha. This outrageously fun and bizarre ride is a must-do when in Rotorua, so don't miss out!
Whitewater Rafting
125NZD per personGet your adrenaline fix on this exhilarating white water rafting trip. Enjoy the amazing scenery along the way, but don't forget to paddle!
Rotorua Canopy Tours
189-259NZD per personExperience life among the treetops of a Kiwi forest through this one-of-a-kind nature tour. Gain a whole new perspective on the plants, animals, and insects that call this environment home, and learn about conservation efforts to protect the region's subtropical forests. Opt to book the Original Canopy Tour (3 hrs) or the Ultimate Canopy Tour (3.5 hrs).
Hot Springs
45-75NZD per personSoak tired muscles in the area's natural hot springs and let the mineral water work its magic. Rotorua is home to a number of amazing geothermal parks – be sure you don't miss the healing and relaxing benefits of the city's naturally heated waters.
Accommodation
Sudima Lake Rotorua (or similar)
Meals included:
Breakfast | LunchDay 4Rotorua/Tongariro National Park
Start your day with the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, widely regarded as New Zealand’s premier one-day trek. Traverse dramatic volcanic landscapes, pass shimmering emerald lakes, and marvel at breathtaking alpine views. After this incredible adventure, you’ll head to a charming alpine village to relax and enjoy a well-earned dinner with your fellow travellers.
Mt Tongariro's rocky, dramatic landscapes make this day-long trek truly one of New Zealand's "Great Walks", passing emerald lakes and beautiful alpine scenery. Start early and collect supplies before heading out. The transfer will drop the group off at the beginning of the self-guided trek and collect everyone at the other end. After the trek, travel to a nearby alpine village for the night and enjoy a well earned dinner with your travel companions.
Note: The Tongariro Alpine Crossing Trek is highly weather dependent and will take place only if conditions are safe to do so. Alternate activities for inclement weather will be arranged. Please be prepared for the weather of this changing alpine environment with hiking books, a water/wind proof jacket, and layered (not cotton) clothing. A moderate fitness level is required to participate in this trek.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing Trek
Today we conquer the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand's top-rated 1-day trek and spend time hiking an active volcano. Mt Tongariro's rocky, dramatic landscapes make this day-long trek truly one of New Zealand's "Great Walks", passing emerald lakes and beautiful alpine scenery.
Accommodation
The Alpine Chalets (or similar)
Meals included:
Breakfast | DinnerDay 5Tongariro National Park/Whanganui National Park
Travel to Blue Duck Station, a working farm and conservation haven nestled on the edge of Whanganui National Park. Here, you’ll learn about the station’s inspiring efforts to protect local wildlife, including the endangered blue duck, while admiring the beauty of the Whanganui River. A guided bush safari will introduce you to the area’s rich history, conservation work, and sustainable farming practices. End the day with a delicious dinner and a restful evening at this unique and rustic retreat.
Marvel at the Whanganui River - the third longest in New Zealand - as it flows out to the west coast of the North Island from Mt Tongariro. Learn about the region's natural history, conservation efforts for indigenous wildlife (including the endangered New Zealand blue duck) and Blue Duck Station's sustainable farming practices.
Note: While in Whanganui National Park, the order and length of activities on Days 5 & 6 may vary according to weather conditions.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Blue Duck Station Bush Safari
Embark on a bush safari to explore Blue Duck Station, stopping for a picnic lunch en route. Enjoy stunning views of Whanganui National Park, and learn about the region’s rich history and how they combine their conservation work with sustainable farming practices.
Accommodation
Blue Duck Lodge (or similar)
Meals included:
Breakfast | Lunch | DinnerDay 6Whanganui National Park
Embark on a day of exploration along the Whanganui River. Paddle through the heart of the national park on a kayaking journey and experience the thrill of a jet boat ride to discover historical Maori and European settlements. Return to Blue Duck Station for another night of relaxation and connection with nature.
During short walks or stops en route, learn about the region's history and local conservation efforts. Return to Blue Duck Station for the night. Enjoy a delicious dinner.
Note: While in Whanganui National Park, the order and length of activities on Days 5 & 6 may vary according to weather conditions.
Whanganui River Journey
Grab a paddle and life jacket and journey along the famous Whanganui River – New Zealand's third longest river. Soak in the wildlife and scenery, seemingly untouched by modern day. It's a great way to unwind and pack in a little more Kiwi adventure. (Note: actual distance and time of the paddle may vary according to weather conditions.)
Whanganui River Jet Boating
Have fun and hold on! Fulfill your need for speed travelling down the amazingly scenic Whanganui River by jet boat.
Accommodation
Blue Duck Lodge (or similar)
Meals included:
Breakfast | Lunch | DinnerDay 7Whanganui National Park/Waitomo District
Travel north to the small town of Waitomo, located near an extensive underground cave system. Enjoy a free afternoon, and opt to explore the area on foot. Settle into your accommodation close by, and enjoy a final dinner together to say farewell to those finishing their tour in Auckland tomorrow.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Free Time
Take part in one of the optional activities around Waitomo.
Optional Activities - Day 7 HideShow
Waitomo Valley Walk
FreeExplore Waitomo Valley’s amazing rugged landscape by foot on this one-way walk - the CEO will see you off at the start. Check out a small cave on your way, and then follow the trail through the forest back to Waitomo Village. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, and take a rain jacket and water.
Accommodation
Waitomo Chalets (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 8Waitomo District/Auckland
After an early start, visit the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, and take a boat ride through this spectacular underground realm to see thousands of flickering glowworms light up in the dark. Travel north to Auckland where your tour will end around 1pm.
When arranging your transportation, please take into consideration your flight must depart Auckland no earlier than 17:00 on Day 8.
Waitomo Spellbound Cave Excursion
Enjoy a peaceful boat ride through 30 million year old caverns covered with magical glowworms that are unique to New Zealand. Hundreds of thousands of these tiny creatures radiate luminescent light in underground caves carved by rivers and time. Take in more than 136 years of cultural and natural history on this unique excursion.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Departure Day
Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.