New Zealand–Best Of The North Island

Name: New Zealand–Best of the North Island
Brand: G Adventures
SKU: BM-5117
Price: 743 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.5 (45 reviews)

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highlights

Surf world-famous waves.
Experience a historic Maori village with a local guide.
Get the adrenaline pumping in Rotorua.
Dance the night away in Wellington.

The New Zealand–Best of the North Island tour starts in Auckland and ends in Wellington. The New Zealand–Best of the North Island is a Photography Tour that takes 7 days taking you from Auckland to Wellington and through other destinations in New Zealand.

Admittedly, we haven’t checked the numbers too closely, but we’re confident that New Zealand ranks among the world’s leading producers of excitement. This quick trip across the North Island jams as many thrills as permissible by law into seven electrifying, activity-packed days. Sea kayak, learn to surf New Zealand's world-famous waves, experience Maori culture directly from the Maori themselves, and much more, all in a breezy week that always feels full and never hurried.

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Itinerary Expand All

Day 1: Auckland

Arrive at any time.
Arrive in Auckland at any time. There are no planned activities during the day, so check into the hotel and explore the city. If you arrive early enough, opt to visit the Maritime Museum, walk the waterfront, or even take the ferry to Waiheke Island.

Accommodation

Nomads Auckland (or similar)

Included Activity

Arrival Day and Welcome Meeting
Duration : 1.0 hr
The adventure begins tonight. Feel free to explore before your welcome meeting, but make sure you’re back in time to meet the group. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your tour. Please note that normal check-in times apply at our start hotels, but you can usually store your luggage for the day if you arrive early.

Optional Activities

Maritime Museum Visit
Tour the museum’s seven galleries to learn more about New Zealand’s relationship with the sea. Be inspired by the country's most celebrated mariner, Sir Peter Blake, and his many accomplishments, and see maritime art that speaks to the sentiment of a nautical nation.
Waiheke Island Excursion
Take 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)
As 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.

Day 2: Auckland/Raglan

Visit an eel farm which focuses on developing sustainable aquaculture to learn about their methods before sea kayaking to a harbour for a picnic lunch.
Travel backroads to a remote conservation farm where they are using natural means to boost the stocks of traditionally farmed marine life. Farmers have created a balanced ecosystem to attract native birds and animals back to the area.

After, kayak to a remote part of the harbour for a boat cruise and lunch, before heading to our lodge a few minutes drive from the famous surf and arts town of Raglan for the night.

Meal

Breakfast and Lunch

Accommodation

Lava Lounge (or similar)

Included Activities

Eel Farm Visit
Duration : 1.0 hr - 1.5 hr
Visit a local sustainable eel farm which focuses on developing sustainable aquaculture and biological solutions for dairy farms in an effort to restore lowland wetland eco-systems. Be inspired by their green initiatives – they practice the art of giving more back to the environment than they take out.
Sea Kayaking
Duration : 1.5 hr - 2.0 hr
Tour Raglan’s secluded bays and unique coastline by kayak. Paddle the inner harbour to get up close to wildlife, fish, and (fingers crossed) orcas. Discover the pancake rocks on the harbour's northern side.

Transport

Private Vehicle
Duration : 3.0 hr
Distance : 160 km
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Day 3: Raglan

Enjoy an included surf lesson in one of the world's most famous surf areas, then opt to go hiking or rent a stand up paddle board.
Head down to the beach for an included surf lesson. The afternoon is open for optional activities such as yoga, stand up paddle boarding or exploring the many trails in the area.

Meal

Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation

Lava Lounge (or similar)

Included Activity

Surf Lessons
Duration : 3.0 hr
Learn how to catch a wave in this three-hour surf lesson. Start with instruction on dry land before heading into the surf. Take advantage of the large soft boards used in class (they help everyone stand up).

Optional Activities

Hiking
Lace up your hiking boots and head out on local tracks for scenic views. Try walks around Mt Karioi, Te Toto Gorge, or Wainui Reserve.
Stand Up Paddle Lesson
Enjoy fantastic scenery and a great workout while stand up paddle boarding in the Raglan harbour.
Karioi Loop Walk
Enjoy a pleasant forest walk on the flanks of extinct volcano Mt Karioi. Start and finish at our location in Whale Bay. Be ready to get a little muddy if it’s been raining – it’s all part of the adventure.

Day 4: Raglan/Rotorua

Opt to go caving in world famous Waitomo before heading to Rotorua, notable for its geothermal activity and culture. Visit a local village to gain insight into Maori culture.
Stop en route at Waitomo. Enjoy free time to visit the Waitomo Caves, famous for their glow-worms and adventure activities, or explore this scenic area by foot.

Continue to Rotorua for an engaging cultural experience on the grounds of a historic Maori village.

Meal

Breakfast

Accommodation

Rock Solid Backpackers Rotorua (or similar)

Included Activity

Maori Cultural Experience
Duration : 1.0 hr - 1.5 hr
Immerse yourself in a Maori cultural experience on the grounds of a historic Maori village. Participate in a pōwhiri (welcoming ceremony), and learn about the history of the marae (village) and the Rotorua-area from a local Maori guide. Discover the abundant geothermal energy surrounding the village that’s used for cooking, heating, and communal bath houses.

Transport

Private Vehicle
Duration : 3.0 hr
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Optional Activities

Waitomo Cave Excursion
Enjoy a peaceful boat ride through 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 120 years of cultural and natural history on this unique excursion.
Waitomo TumuTumu Toobing (Black Water Rafting)
Grab a wetsuit, helmet and gumboots, and float, scramble, swim and walk your way through a subterranean playground! A good challenge but not as difficult as Haggas Honking Holes.
Waitomo Lost World Cave Abseil
Feel like the hero of your own action movie on this tour that involves a 100m (328 ft) abseil (rappel) into the Lost World with a guide at your side. Be awed by the beauty of an iconic cavern that’s covered in glittering glow-worms. After a 30-min descent, embark on a journey back to the surface through a spectacular dry cavern. Relish in your accomplishments (and added confidence) afterwards with some good food and drink.
Waitomo Haggas Honking Holes
Get your fix of adrenaline and fun on this underground action adventure. Do a series of abseils, rock climbs, crawls, and cruises as you explore the fabulous Waitomo caves in an action-packed 4 hrs. See stalactites, stalagmites, and glow-worms up close.
Waitomo Valley Walk
Explore 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.

Day 5: Rotorua/Taupo

Take advantage of free time in the adrenaline capital of the North Island, and opt to go whitewater rafting, check out a geothermal park with technicolour pools, or hit up a nearby spa. Continue on to spend the night near the shores of Lake Taupo.

Meal

Breakfast

Accommodation

Base Taupo (or similar)

Transport

Private Vehicle
Duration : 1.0 hr - 2.0 hr
Distance : 80 km
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Optional Activities

Mountain Biking
Head out on an exhilarating cycling adventure. Explore the stunning Redwood Forest on two wheels on what some call the world's best mountain biking trails. Whether you're a beginner or expert mountain bike enthusiast there's sure to be a trail perfect for you.
Whitewater Rafting
Hot Springs
Soak 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.
Hells Gate Geothermal Park
Zorbing
Hobbiton Tour

Day 6: Taupo/Wellington

Take in the ever-changing scenery on the drive down to the nation's capital at the southern end of the North Island. Opt to take the cable car to the hills overlooking the city, visit the national museum, Te Papa, or stroll along Oriental Parade. Enjoy a Big Night Out with the group.
Travel to Wellington, New Zealand's capital city. Arrive early enough for a visit to the National Museum, Te Papa.

Take a short walk from our accommodation to see the sights of the central business district. Finish the day off with an optional night on the town.

Meal

Breakfast

Accommodation

Nomads Capital (or similar)

Included Activity

Big Night Out
Whether it’s a pub crawl, drink specials or a bonfire on the beach, celebrate late into the night with your new best friends.

Transport

Private Vehicle
Duration : 5.0 hr - 6.0 hr
Distance : 375 km
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Optional Activities

Te Papa Museum Visit
Visit this must-see museum, home to displays of historical Maori artifacts and modern exhibits. See how the museum is constructed on shock absorbers to withstand New Zealand’s many earthquakes – find the stairwell just outside the entrance and descend into the foundations of the building.
Wellington Cable Car
Weta Workshop Tour
Zealandia

Day 7: Wellington

Depart at any time.
Depart at any time. Looking for a lift back to Auckland? Add on the "Auckland Express" and ride with your CEO back north. Ask your sales CEO or agent about this Extra.

What is the Auckland Express Extra? Depart 6am and return to the Nomads Auckland hostel for around 5pm (8-9 hours driving time). If you have booked a transfer that is NOT on the last day of your tour, you must book post-accommodation through G Adventures. All services must be connected.

Meal

Breakfast

Included Activity

Departure Day
Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.

what’s included

Accommodation

Hostels (4 nts), basic lodges (2 nts). Most nights are multi-share.

Meals

6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
Note: Allow USD155-205 for meals not included.

Transport

Private vehicle, kayak, walking

Staff & experts

Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides.

Included activities

Your Hands-On Moment: Surf Lessons, Raglan
Your Big Night Out Moment: Wellington
Conservation farm visit (Raglan)
Sea kayaking excursion (Raglan)
Maori cultural experience
Orientation walk in Wellington
All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

what’s excluded

International Flights
Any international flights to Auckland and from Wellington are not included in this price. We always recommend that you arrive 1 day prior to your tour starting date.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included in this New Zealand–Best of the North Island tour. Travel insurance is mandatory to buy. We recommend purchasing it from World Nomads.

Tour details

Booking Type Instant Booking

Duration 7 days

Tour Type Group Tour - Max 20 participants

guiding method Live guide/instructor

Guide Language English

Starts/Ends Auckland, New Zealand/ Wellington, New Zealand

Get a PDF file with detailed trip information: Download Trip Notes for New Zealand–Best of the North Island

Availability

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Good to know

Payment

A deposit of 250 USD is required to confirm this tour. The remaining balance will be charged 61 days before departure. For any departures within 23 June 2019 full payment is required.

Travel Insurance

The New Zealand–Best of the North Island tour requires that you have adequate and valid travel insurance covering medical and personal accidents, including repatriation costs and emergency evacuation. We recommend using World Nomads' travel insurance.

Visa

For this New Zealand–Best of the North Island tour getting the required visa(s) is the responsibility for each individual traveller, as visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. We recommend to check with your local embassies representing the countries that you are travelling to, as part of this itinerary.

Other Practical Information

1. Travel Style : 18-to-ThirtysomethingsFast, fresh, and fun adventures that never slow down, made for young, budget-minded travellers.
2. Service Level : BasicSimple and clean hotels and hostels; affordable public and private transport; lots of optional activities.
3. Physical Grading : 3 - AverageSome tours may include light hiking, biking, rafting, or kayaking in addition to walking.
4. Trip Type : Small GroupGroup trips average 12 travellers per departure, depending on the adventure. The maximum is usually no more than 16, but some can be smaller or bigger, depending on the trip. Check individual trips for details.

CancellationNo additional cancellation fees apply for this New Zealand–Best of the North Island tour. You can cancel the tour up to 62 days prior departure and avoid paying the full amount, but your deposit paid is non-refundable. No refund applies for cancellations within 61 days of departure.

Trip Details

Accommodation

Hostels (4 nts), basic lodges (2 nts). Most nights are multi-share.
Checklist

Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Required visas or vaccination certificates (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)

Essentials:
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable)
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Light Hiking:
• Hiking boots/sturdy walking shoes
• Hiking pants (Convertible/Zip-off and quick dry recommended)

Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear

Note: The weather in New Zealand varies depending on the season. Make sure to check the forecast for the time you will be visiting and pack weather appropriate clothing for your trip.
Group_leader

Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides.
Group_size_notes

Max 20, avg 16
Highlights

Surf world-famous waves, experience a historic Maori village with a local guide, get the adrenaline pumping in Rotorua, dance the night away in Wellington.
International_flights

Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Introduction

Admittedly, we haven’t checked the numbers too closely, but we’re confident that New Zealand ranks among the world’s leading producers of excitement. This quick trip across the North Island jams as many thrills as permissible by law into seven electrifying, activity-packed days. Sea kayak, learn to surf New Zealand's world-famous waves, experience Maori culture directly from the Maori themselves, and much more, all in a breezy week that always feels full and never hurried.
Meal_budget

Allow USD155-205 for meals not included.
Meals_included

6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
Minimum_age

Minimum age of 18 years for this trip.
Packing_note

The weather in New Zealand varies depending on the season. Make sure to check the forecast for the time you will be visiting and pack weather appropriate clothing for your trip.
Start_finish

Auckland to Wellington
Transport

Private vehicle, kayak, walking
Whats_included

Your Hands-On Moment: Surf Lessons, Raglan
Your Big Night Out Moment: Wellington. Conservation farm visit (Raglan). Sea kayaking excursion (Raglan). Maori cultural experience. Orientation walk in Wellington. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Optional_activities

Auckland
- Maritime Museum Visit (20NZD per person)
- Auckland Sailing: America's Cup Experience (Pre Tour) (160NZD per person)

Waiheke Island
- Waiheke Island Excursion (45-130NZD per person)

Raglan
- Stand Up Paddle Lesson (79NZD per person)
- Hiking (Free)

Whale Bay
- Karioi Loop Walk (Free)

Waitomo Caves
- Waitomo Lost World Cave Abseil (324NZD per person)
- Waitomo Cave Excursion (68NZD per person)

Waitomo
- Waitomo TumuTumu Toobing (Black Water Rafting) (172NZD per person)
- Waitomo Haggas Honking Holes (220NZD per person)
- Waitomo Valley Walk (Free)

Rotorua
- Mountain Biking (35-130NZD per person)
- Whitewater Rafting (89NZD per person)
- Hot Springs (30-50NZD per person)
- Zorbing (35-50NZD per person)
- Hells Gate Geothermal Park (35-90NZD per person)
- Hobbiton Tour (112NZD per person)

Wellington
- Te Papa Museum Visit (Free)
- Wellington Cable Car (4-7.50NZD per person)
- Zealandia (9-95NZD per person)
- Weta Workshop Tour (25-65NZD per person)

other information

G Adventures / Product Category: Photography tours

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