North Island Adventure

This morning walk along the cliffs and down to Cathedral Cove. With perfect beaches and massive rock arches and columns, it’s one of the most popular spots in the Coromandel. Alternatively, take an optional guided Cathedral Cove kayak trip and check out this stunning coastline from a different angle.

In the afternoon you will head towards Rotorua; stopping en route at Matamata, best known for being the home of the Hobbiton movie set. For Lord of the Rings fans a fully guided tour of the 12 acre Middle-earth set is a must-do — you will see Hobbit Holes, the Mill, and even enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon Inn.

Today is a free day to explore Rotorua and its surrounding area. While the majority of the North Island is volcanic in some way, Rotorua is exceptional for its geothermal activity. With neon blue and red lakes, steaming rivers, active volcanoes and geysers galore, there are more unique natural wonders to be found in Rotorua than many other places in the world.

If adrenaline is your thing, you can take a rafting trip on the Kaituna river — the highest commercial waterfall drop in the world. Another option is a day trip to the famous Waitomo Gloworm Caves, which offer a number of ways to experience the twinking creatures up close.

This morning you will visit Te Puia Maori Village, where you’ll learn more about Māori history and culture, come face to face with the Pohutu Geyser, see jumping mud pools and get up close and personal with kiwi birds.

Later this afternoon you'll head to Kohutapu Lodge in Murupara — a living Māori village — where you will experience a tribal tour by a village elder. Here you’ll also have a chance to learn the world-famous haka dance, and weave your own dinner plate using flax (a type of plant). Dinner will be a traditional hāngi meal, which is cooked in an underground earth oven.

The best part about spending the evening at Kohutapu Lodge? The majority of proceeds from this activity go back to the local community.

It’s only a short drive to your next destination, Lake Taupō, and there’s plenty to discover along the way. From mesmerising mud pools to the thundering rapids of the Huka Falls and Aratiatia Dam, your guide will make sure you don’t miss a thing.

Lake Taupō is New Zealand’s largest lake — believe it or not, it’s roughly the same size as Singapore. This place is all about the thrills and spills, and there are plenty of options in store this afternoon. Get your hair wet with a water touch bungy jump, take an unforgettable skydive or a sunset lake cruise for amazing lake and mountain views.

You can spend today either relaxing around Lake Taupō or hiking the Tongariro Crossing — often classed as one of the best full-day walks in the world. This 19.4-kilometre mountain trek in Tongariro National Park boasts emerald green lakes, venting steam, lava flows and craters.

If you’d prefer to take it easy, jump on a boat for a sailing trip to view Māori rock carvings. Or head to Spa Park and soak until your fingers are wrinkly. However you choose to spend today we guarantee you won’t forget it.

It’s a big drive from Taupō to Wellington, but there’s some unmissable scenery on offer. You'll journey through Tongariro National Park and the Rangipo Desert, which is home to three active volcanic peaks — Mount Tongariro, Mount Ngauruhoe, and Mount Ruapehu. You'll also pass through two of the North Island’s quirkier towns which you'll get a chance to explore.

You will arrive in Wellington in the afternoon, with just enough time for film fans to make a trip to Weta Workshop — where the special effects of Lord of the Rings and Avatar were produced — before heading out to enjoy the capital's fantastic food and craft beer scene.