Highlights:
- See the very best of what the North Island has to offer.
- The Northern Round Up will take you to the fantastic beaches in the Coromandel, out-of-this-world geysers in Rotorua, the Central Volcanic Plateau (home of Mt. Doom) and the lush farmland of the Horowhenua.
- Mix this with some amazing activities like black water rafting, a marae visit and skydiving if that takes your fancy.
- Explore New Zealand's stunning north in a comprehensive loop.
- Experience unique destinations like Hot Water Beach.
- Get to know the landscapes of Waitomo and Rotorua.
- Stop off at stunning Taupo and River Valley.
- Explore the capital - Wellington.
Included:
- Hop on hop off national bus pass valid 12 months.
- Please note that this pass includes transport only.
Day 1 : Auckland to Hot Water Beach
Spend the afternoon walking or kayaking to Cathedral Cove, and then soak in the natural springs at Hot Water Beach! After visiting the Kiwi Experience office we head towards the Coromandel Peninsula and spend the afternoon at Cathedral Cove; accessible only on foot or by kayak. This beautiful coastal spot is great for swimming, sea kayaking, and spotting dolphins if you’re lucky. We then carry on to Hot Water Beach (rated one of the top ten beaches in the world by Lonely Planet) where you can head out with your shovel at low tide to dig your own hot pool in the sand.
Meal(s) included : None
Day 2 : Hot Water Beach to Waitomo
Check out New Zealand’s gold mining history before travelling on to experience the glowworms, underwater caves and forest walks of Waitomo. After an early start our first stop is the Karangahake Scenic Reserve to explore a native bush-clad gorge, swing bridges and a bit of New Zealand’s gold mining history. Next it’s onto Waitomo ('wai' meaning water, 'tomo' meaning hole) where you will get the chance to visit world famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves. If you're feeling adventurous, here is your chance to go underground and experience one of our top rated NZ activities with The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co.
Meal(s) included : None
Day 3 : Waitomo to Rotorua
Last chance to explore Waitomo on the Ruakuri bush walk before heading to Rotorua, the Maori culture capital of New Zealand. We start the day with a walk through the Ruakuri Reserve and a breakfast stop at the Long Black Café before heading off toward Rotorua. Along the way we will stop at The Shires Rest where you can jump off and take a tour through the enchanting Hobbiton Movie Set. Tonight don’t miss the chance to stay overnight at Tamaki Marae, where you can experience a traditional Maori hangi (feast) and concert with Tamaki Maori Village – a night not to be missed!
Meal(s) included : None
Day 4 : Rotorua to Taupo
A popular backpacker destination, with New Zealand’s biggest lake and plenty to keep you occupied! The first activity of the day is exploring the geothermal reserve of Te Puia, with New Zealand’s largest geyser and a chance to see a real live Kiwi bird. The afternoon journey includes a stop off at Taupo’s famous Huka Falls. Taupo is rightly known as the adventure capital of the North Island with optional activities on offer such as skydiving, bungy jumping, jet boating, sailing and the spectacular Tongariro Crossing!
Meal(s) included : None
Day 5 : Free Day Taupo
We recommend staying an extra night in Taupo because there’s so much to do! If you’re short on time, you can always skip this extra day, timetable allowing, and get to the next stop sooner. Enjoy a sleep-in (for those not doing the Tongariro Crossing) and experience one of the many activities on offer. A walk down to Spa Park to relax in the natural hot springs by the river is a great way to spend the day (or night).
Meal(s) included : None
Day 6 : Taupo to Wellington
We head south around the “great lake” towards the Tongariro National Park for a picnic lunch and a two-hour walk through native bush and waterfalls. In the afternoon we travel through to Wellington City. This city is the undisputed capital of culture, the arts, restaurants, fashion and nightlife. Here you can experience Mount Victoria (included) and then passengers have the opportunity to experience the national museum, Te Papa and get amongst the thriving craft beer scene.
Meal(s) included : None
Day 7 : Wellington to Taupo
With an early start from windy Wellington, we head north through Taihape, the gumboot capital of New Zealand and the Central Plateau, home of the Tongariro National Park. Then it’s through to Taupo*, driving alongside New Zealand's biggest lake. If the weather suits, it’s time to skydive. *This bus is an express service to Auckland, via Rotorua you can jump off the bus in Taupo.
Meal(s) included : None
Day 8 : Taupo to Auckland (via Rotorua)
Heading to Rotorua, renowned for its Maori heritage and thermal activity, jump off the bus in Rotorua* or continue onwards through the rolling countryside to Auckland, known as the ‘City of Sails’. *Please note this bus is an express service to Auckland, but you can jump off the bus in Rotorua
Meal(s) included : None
Start Anywhere finish where you started.
Minimum travel time 8 days.
Maximum travel time 12 months from the first day of travel.
What to Bring:
Comfortable walking shoes.
