Northern Secrets

Get ready to dive headfirst into the heart of New Zealand’s coolest capital city! Wellington is where creativity meets adventure, and your Northern Secrets tour kicks off.

If you're arriving in Wellington today, make your way to Haka House. If you’re already in Wellington, start your day with a caffeine hit and explore the city’s vibrant culture. From quirky boutiques to world-class museums, there’s something for everyone. As the sun sets, connect with fellow travellers at our Welcome Evening.

The centrally located Haka House is your home base. Check-in is from 2 p.m., and get ready to discover the magic of Wellington!

Unleash Your Inner Film Buff and Explorer in Wellington.

Get ready to be amazed at Wētā Workshop! Step behind the scenes of your favourite movies like The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Avatar, and District 9. Witness the magic come to life as you explore mind-blowing props, costumes, and creature designs. You might even glimpse an artist bringing a character to life! PLUS participate in an intro to SFX workshop. Learn the art of creating convincing special effects by mixing blood and sculpting scars and scrapes. 

Fuel your afternoon with learning and nature! Immerse yourself in nature at Zealandia, a haven for native wildlife (optional paid activity). If you have room in your suitcase and are craving a bit of shopping, Wellington is a great place to do just that. Check out Wellingtons 'Golden Mile', the area with the best shopping. Otherwise, head up Mt Victoria and get 360-degree views of Wellington City, the harbour and also a view of the ocean to the south. We promise you will not get bored in Wellington, there is something for everyone. 

Let's bid farewell to Wellington as we journey to the enchanting Kaitoke Regional Park, the real-life inspiration behind the ethereal Rivendell from The Lord of the Rings. Wander through ancient forests, breathe in the fresh air, and keep an eye out for native birds like the elusive New Zealand falcon.

This afternoon step back in time and discover the charm of historic Greytown, known for its beautifully restored Victorian buildings. Explore quaint shops, enjoy delicious coffee, and immerse yourself in the town's rich history at Pāpāwai Marae, the site of the first Māori Parliament. This afternoon we will be immersed in the Greytown Honey Experience. Learn about beekeeping and even give it a try for yourself!

Today we're heading to Napier; New Zealand's Art Deco capital. Get ready to be amazed by the city's unique architecture and vibrant atmosphere! Before our arrival, we will stop to stretch our legs and soak up stunning views at Te Mata Peak, the perfect spot for epic photos.

This morning, visit the National Aquarium of New Zealand. If you have time, stroll along Marine Parade, the jewel in the Hawkes Bay crown, before departing Hawkes Bay and onto Taupo for lunch.

This afternoon we will drive to Kohutapu Lodge, an immersive Māori cultural experience on the outskirts of Murupara. It is here you will learn the history of the Ngāti Manawa people, walk in the native forest, learn about traditional Māori medicinal plants like Kawakawa, feast on traditional Hāngī, participate in traditional Māori games and meet and learn from the local community.

Explore delicately carved meeting houses and enjoy morning tea and conversation with the community elders.

Bidding Haere rā (goodbye), we journey to where the centre of the earth meets the sky: Hell’s Gate Rotorua. Hell’s Gate offers one of New Zealand's most unique geothermal experiences. It is where the earth boils, mud heals, and steam disappears into the clouds above. Don't forget your swimsuit for a rejuvenating dip in the nutrient-rich thermal pools, including a full-body mud bath experience.

This afternoon we head to the vibrant beach town of Mount Maunganui, also known as "The Mount." Soak up the sun, stroll along the picturesque coastline, or challenge yourself with a hike to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views. Tonight, we will stay across the bridge in Tauranga, with water views and within walking distance of great bars and restaurants, this is the perfect place

Fuel up and enjoy breakfast at one of the many local cafes before we hit the road and head up the coast towards the picturesque Coromandel region. A stop along the way will let us discover the hidden gems of the Karangahake Gorge, where we will enjoy a hike through historic mining tunnels and admire the lush native forests. We will stop in Waihi to have a look at Martha Mine, which is a gold mine that is still operational today. We will then head on to discover the charm of Whangamata which is a popular Kiwi getaway known for its pristine beaches and native forests. Grab a bite to eat here and then we will be on our way. 

This afternoon we head to the Coromandel which is  home to the famous Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve which is a breathtaking natural rock formation at Cathedral Cove. Go on a short walk to explore the cove by foot or embark on an ocean adventure and get the best of both worlds. Hop aboard the Hahei Explorer and explore the area by boat OR if you feel like putting some effort in, Cathedral Cove Kayaks is the perfect option too.

Later on if the tides are right, we will head down to Hot Water Beach and dig a personal natural spa and relax in the hot geothermal water on the beach. Go for a sunset swim in the ocean, grab a bite to eat or get cozy for the evening. 

Leave the Coromandel behind and venture into the heart of the Kaimai Ranges. Our Northern Secrets Tour concludes in the bustling metropolis of Auckland, also known as the "City of Sails." If you have the time, explore the city's iconic waterfront, stroll through the vibrant Wynyard Quarter, or immerse yourself in the arts scene at one of the many museums and galleries.

As your Kiwi Experience adventure draws to a close, take a moment to reflect on the incredible memories and friendships you've made along the way. Farewell to your fellow travellers and Kiwi Driver Guide. Ka kite anō! (See you again!)