North Island Revive

After breakfast you'll get the opportunity to paddle in a traditional Māori Waka with unique insights into our ancient customs, rituals and traditions. The Bay of Islands, originally known as Taiamai, is home to Ngapuhi, New Zealand’s largest tribal Māori group. Paddle your way to the Haruru Falls and soak in the amazing sights of Paihia and Waitangi.

Afterwards, we depart Paihia and travel back to Auckland for the night.

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Departing Auckland, we head south to Raglan, well known for its pristine black-sand beach and long surf break at Manu Bay. Here, you can go surfing (lessons and surfboard hire are optional), kayaking around the stunning coastline (optional), or explore the Raglan township which is full of character, with an entertaining mix of cafes, bars, surf shops and galleries. Before leaving Raglan we’ll visit Bridal Veil Falls, and then head onto to Waitomo, one of New Zealand’s best natural attractions. In Māori, 'wai' means water, and 'tomo' means hole. Waitomo is more than caves and glowworms; it's a cultural hub rich in Māori history, myths and legends. Some of the cave guides are descendants of Chief Tane Tinorau, the original explorer of the caves. You'll get the chance to marvel at the glowworms and limestone formations and learn about the cultural significance of the caves on an included walking tour of Ruakuri Cave.

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We start the day with a refreshing walk through the Ruakuri Reserve and say goodbye to those glowing little critters. Next, we'll pass through The Shire of Hobbiton where you’ll have the opportunity to discover the Hobbiton Movie Set (optional activity) before rolling on through to Rotorua; a mystical land of bubbling mud pools, rocketing geysers and natural hot springs. On arrival to Rotorua we'll head to Redwoods Tree Walk - a 700 metre long walkway that consists of a series of 28 suspension bridges traversing the gaps between 27 majestic 120-year-old Redwood trees. Enjoy breathtaking and stunning views from a birds eye perspective. This evening you have the option of visiting Secret Spot Hot Tubs, where you can soak in your own tub surrounded by ferns and overlooking the stunning Whakarewarewa Forest (optional activity).

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There's so many things to see and do in Rotorua, there's something for everyone. This morning we'll go to the National Kiwi Hatchery (included) where you’ll get a behind the scenes tour, getting you close and personal with our national icon – the Kiwi bird. Every person on our tour that visits, helps us contribute to the survival of these endangered bird species. 

Afterwoods we'll explore Kuirau geothermal parks to see the crater lake, bubbling mud pools, hot springs, and a free thermal foot bath. One that we would defintely recommend is heading up the Skyline Gondola (optional add-on) for amazing panaramic views of Rotorua and if you're feeling more adventurous, head back down by luging; a part go kart, part toboggan fuelled by gravity, wind through the downhill track whilst taking in the breathtaking views.  

From late afternoon we head off to visit Te Pā Tū Maori Village where you will be immersed in the traditions and cultural values of the Māori people. Participate in a pōwhiri (welcoming ceremony), learn about the history of the marae (village) and the Rotorua-area from a local Māori guide before feasting on some top kai (food) from the hāngi pit. Afterwards, gather around a blazing bonfire where you will enjoy Māori myths and legends before retiring for the night in a traditional carved whare moe (sleeping house).

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Today we leave the geothermal wonderland and head to the Great Lake Taupo; New Zealand’s largest lake (actually an extinct volcano crater) where you’ll get visit and walk Huka Falls. Afterwards we'll set sail on New Zealand’s only commercial electric (zero carbon) yacht on the crystal-blue waters of Lake Taupō (included). Investigate the hidden bays and dramatic coastline that tell the story of Taupō’s volcanic past. Only accessible by boat, discover the history and cultural significance of the Māori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay.

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Taupo’s central location means it’s a hop, skip and a jump away from other world-class activities which we give you the option to experience on this free day. Experience Mount Ruapehu or hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing (extra activity); a dramatic landscape of stunning contrasts created by extinguished lava flows and emerald lakes. It’s no surprise Tongariro is often described as one of New Zealand’s best one-day hikes. 

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We head south today around the Tongariro National Park and travel to the ultimate adventure Eco-lodge - River Valley. Located beside the Rangitikei River in the central North Island of New Zealand, River Valley is a remote, family-run lodge where you can seek adventure or embrace the solitude and blissfully disconnect. Choose to white water raft on the Rangitikei River (optional activity), experience horse trekking and learn natural horsemanship techniques (optional activity), or explore the beautiful location by e-bike (optional activity).

Tonight we will enjoy a Farm-To-Table meal prepared freshly by the River Valley Chef (included). The team is passionate not just about food but also about where the food comes from. They strongly believe in sourcing ethical, local, and sustainable food and serving wholesome and healthy food.

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This morning we head through the rolling hills full of deer, cattle and sheep, where we’ll stop off in Taihape for a friendly gumboot throwing competition. Yes, that’s right you heard correctly! You’ll get to enjoy a friendly gumboot throwing comp in the gumboot capital of the world. After all the excitement of rubber we head on to Wellington arriving early afternoon. This city is the undisputed capital of culture, the arts, restaurants, fashion, nightlife and craft beer. Here you can experience Mount Victoria and Te Papa; New Zealand's national museum. Unfortunately the tour is nearly over, but before we all hug it out and shed some tears, we’ll take a visit to Wellington’s well known “Cuba Street” for one last hurrah!

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