Traveling with kayaks, mountain bikes, snorkeling gear, surfing equipment and a few other toys, you really get to do much more than just see the sights, you get to explore them!
Each day you will be able to choose what activity you feel like doing. Of course your guide will suggest the best activity to experience each area, but ultimately, it is up to you. This trip includes all the highlights of the North Island, as well as some lesser known secret spots!
Your Itinerary
Day 1 - Day 2: Arrive Auckland / Bay of Islands
Meet your guide and fellow adventurers upon arrival in Auckland and then we’ll drive north to the Bay of Islands arriving in time for a short paddle or stroll on the beach to stretch your legs, followed by a “Welcome Dinner” of local seafood. The Bay of Islands is punctuated by dozens of secluded beaches and coves, clear waters ranging in hue from turquoise to deep blue. Dotted with nearly 150 islands, the region is aptly named. Numerous options for kayaking to offshore islands, surfing or snorkelling exist along the way. We will spend two days exploring this great area, with plenty of hiking, biking, kayaking and snorkelling! Optional scuba diving and sailing trips are also available in this area. D/B/L/D
Day 3 - Day 4: Kaitaia - The Far North/ 90 Mile Beach
Welcome to the “far north” of New Zealand! This area is famous for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear water and excellent fishing. The region is steeped in early European and Maori history – check out the museum for the complete story. After an early morning in the surf or paddle, enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading out on an exploration to Cape Reinga. A drive up 90 Mile Beach is sure to make you realize you’re a long way from home! Even try your hand at surfing the huge sand dunes along the way! A BBQ on the beach is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the Kiwi lifestyle! B/L/D/B/L/D
Day 5: Auckland
Today we head south to Auckland, New Zealand’s largest and most multi-cultural city. You’ll get a chance to wander round the Viaduct – a vibrant downtown area, and until recently home to the Americas Cup. While the Cup is no longer there, the vibrant atmosphere continues with numerous bars and restaurants open until late. B/L
Day 6 – Day 7: Coromandel Peninsula
This morning we drive east to the Coromandel Peninsula – a rugged, densely forested peninsula where rivers force their way through gorges and pour down steep cliffs into the sea. From our base in Hahei, we can hike to Cathedral Cove, accessible only at low tide through a gigantic arched cavern. We then walk south to Hot Water beach where thermal waters brew just below the sand. Our Guide will show you how to dig your very own spa in the sand from where you can sit back and contemplate whether to surf, scuba dive or snorkel. This area also has some great mountain biking trails… so what are you waiting for?! B/L/D/B/L/D
Day 8: Rotorua
Rotorua has the most energetic thermal activity in NZ, with bubbling mud pools, gurgling hot springs and gushing geysers. We will explore the thermal features of Rotorua. In the evening, attend a traditional Maori feast (Hangi), where meats and vegetables are cooked in the traditional fashion beneath the ground on hot rocks. Our local Maori hosts will introduce us to their underground cooking techniques, culture and history. B/L/D
Day 9 - Day 10: Tongariro National Park
The Central North Island is an area of distinctive geography and scenery, and Tongariro is New Zealand’s oldest national park (est. 1887) and a World Heritage area. This status recognizes the park’s important Maori cultural and spiritual associations as well as its outstanding volcanic features. The Tongariro, Ngaruahoe and Ruapehu mountains are at the heart of the park and form the southern limits of the Taupo Volcanic Zone. It was this area Peter Jackson chose to film part of Lord of the Rings – you will recognize Mordor and the Plains of Gorgoroth as we hike the Tongariro Crossing, a 7-8 hour trek through spectacular terrain, passing two active volcanoes, lava flows, emerald coloured lakes and hot springs. This is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular hikes in the entire country and very different to the rest of New Zealand. B/L/D/B/L/D
Day 11: Wellington - Depart
Depart from Wellington - the most multi-cultural city in New Zealand, or don't leave and join the New Zealand Top-2-Bottom as it crosses over to the South Island!
Options:
This trip can be linked with the South Island Top-2-Bottom so that you can do the whole of New Zealand from Top-2-Bottom in 21 days! Or, what about doing the Routeburn, Milford or Hollyford Tracks?
Activities & Inclusions:
The North Island Top-2-Bottom includes many great activities. Obviously, you have unlimited use of the mountain bikes, sea kayaks, body boards and snorkeling gear included in the tour cost. The cost of the tour also includes all meals (except for 1 lunch & 1 dinner), accommodations, transport, and the services of a guide!
Departure Dates 2007 - 2008
Oct 29 - Nov 8, 2007
Nov 29 - Dec 9, 2007
Dec 10 - Dec 20, 2007
Jan 10 - Jan 20, 2008
Jan 21 - Jan 31, 2008
Feb 21 - Mar 2, 2008
Mar 3 - Mar 13, 2008
Apr 3 - Apr 13, 2008
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Tour Cost (All Prices Include New Zealand Taxes)
NZ$3,950.00 pp
Single Supplement
NZ$400.00 pp (for full 11-day tour)
Also see tour packages in:
Australia and Oceania
New Zealand
Multi-activity
National Parks
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