7 Days North Island New Zealand
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.79 (122 reviews)
7 Days
10 People Max
Activity Level 4
Trip Start: Rotorua
Trip End: Rotorua
Trip Overview
- Level – Moderate
- Duration – 7 days
- Region – North Island, NZ
- Arrive – Rotorua
- Depart – Rotorua
- Price – US$3,099+Tax
- Season – Year-round
Trip Introduction
Get ready for a thrilling 7-day adventure through New Zealand’s North Island. Our journey begins in Rotorua, the cultural heart of this stunning region, and from there, we’ll take you through a series of awe-inspiring destinations.
You’ll explore volcanic landscapes, hike the iconic Tongariro Alpine Crossing, traverse dense forests, and experience the unique beauty of Lake Rotopounamu. We’ll also take you to stunning coastline, and discover native flora and fauna totally unique to New Zealand.
In addition to these awe-inspiring natural discoveries, you’ll have a free day in Rotorua, known as the adventure capital of the North Island. Get ready for an unforgettable exploration of the North Island!
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Embark on a week-long expedition through the heart of New Zealand, where every step is a dance with nature, culture, and adventure. Our itinerary takes you from the cultural hub of Rotorua to the iconic landscapes of Tongariro National Park and North to isolated white sand beaches of the Bay of Plenty.
Traverse the world-renowned Tongariro Alpine Crossing, hike on New Zealand’s highest volcano, and immerse yourself in the ancient rainforests by sea kayaking Lake Taupo and exploring isolated beaches. As we journey to the center of the North Island, each day unfolds with a new tapestry of experiences.
Whether you choose to explore the Hobbiton Movie Set or engage in adrenaline-pumping activities in Rotorua, this adventure promises moments of wonder, cultural immersion, and the thrill of discovering the soul of New Zealand.
Arrive Rotorua. Hike Lake Rotopounamu
Our trip begins in Rotorua, the cultural heart of New Zealand, and the perfect starting point for our drive south into the volcanic central plateau. We’ll pass Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake, before heading into Tongariro National Park. We’ll begin with a hike around an ancient explosion crater, now a pristine volcanic lake surrounded by virgin rainforest.
The native birdlife here is magic, with many species here able to thrive, due to intensive measures to control predators. This is a great introduction to hiking in the North Island and an insight into New Zealand’s unique natural history.
After our hike we’ll head to Ohakune and settle into our accommodation, we’ll meet up again for dinner at a local pub for our first Kiwi meal together.
Ohakune Hotel, Ohakune
Dinner
Hiking: 5.8km / 3.6 miles
Hike Tongariro Alpine Crossing
This morning we’ll set off on one of the world’s greatest one-day hikes – the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This trail leads us through an incredible variety of ethereal landscapes – lava fields, emerald-coloured crater lakes, steaming vents, alpine passes, and sense forest. There’s nothing like it anywhere else on the planet! The views across to Mt Ngauruhoe, Mt Ruapehu, and the Central Plateau of the North Island are simply spectacular and worth every step!
Your guides make this incredible hike even more memorable by sharing local stories and legends, and bringing the extraordinary geological history to life. We’ll return to Ohakune to celebrate our hike.
Ohakune Hotel, Ohakune
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: 19.4km / 12 miles
Hike Mt Ruapehu and Taranaki Falls
We’ll drive a short distance south this morning around New Zealand’s highest and largest volcano, Mt Ruapehu. This iconic mountain is sacred to Māori, and is a much loved ski area. We’ll take a gondola ride up to Knoll Ridge before beginning with a hike up the “Skyline” ridge. Here we’ll view the entire central plateau (including Mt Ngaruahoe – AKA Mt Doom) and out to the West Coast. Spectacular!
Later, we’ll descend and hike a loop trail in the alpine tussock area, with the highlight being Taranaki Falls - a massive waterfall cascading over the edge of a large andesite lava flow which erupted from Ruapehu 15,000 years ago.
Ohakune Hotel, Ohakune
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: 8km / 5 miles
Sea Kayak Lake Taupo
We’ll depart the mountain zone this morning and head North to Lake Taupo - New Zealand largest lake, and an ancient explosion crater left by one of the worlds largest volcanic eruptions thousands of years ago. With specialist sea kayaking guides, we’ll embark on an incredible paddling excursion on the crystal clear waters of the lake. Beginning in the sheltered waters of Acacia Bay, we’ll explore the secluded Rock Carvings at Mine Bay before paddling below native bush, past steep cliffs and mini inlets that kayaks can only harbor into.
Later, we’ll continue on to Rotorua, the cultural heart of New Zealand.
Rotorua Hotel, Rotorua
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Paddling: 4km / 2.4 miles
Hobbiton Movie Set or Free Day in Rotorua
Today is free for you to explore the multitude of adventure or leisure activities available in Rotorua. There’s so much you can do here you’ll be almost too spoiled for choice! Raft the world’s highest waterfall on the Kaituna river, take a canopy tour on a zipline, experience the thermal activity at Hells Gate… the choice is yours.
If you’re a fan of the Tolkein movies, there’s an option to take a morning tour to the Hobbiton movie set just a short drive away in the town of Matamata. Later we’ll meet for dinner in town.
Hotel Rotorua
Breakfast, Dinner
Hike Mauao and Orokawa Bay
This morning we’ll hike the iconic volcanic cone of Mauao, which looms large over the beautiful beaches of Mt Maunganui. The views from the top are insane!
Later, we'll drive a short distance up the coast to Waihi Beach - a local favourite and an amazing sport for a beachfront lunch.
After lunch we'll walk over the north headland of Waihi Beach to Orokawa Bay - one of THE most beautiful and secluded beaches in New Zealand. There's a vast array of birdlife to be seen on the way, so keep your eye out! We'll return to Rotorua, and enjoy our final dinner together.
Hotel Rotorua, Rotorua
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: 8.2km / 5.1 miles
Depart
Today is the last day of your Conqueror Adventures hiking exploration of the heart of New Zealand’s North Island. Our aim is to create incredible moments that count with like minded people, and build lifelong friendships through physical activity and shared experiences in some of the worlds most beautiful places.
We’ll drop you at Rotorua airport in time for your flight to Auckland. If you’re heading to the South Island to join us, we’re happy to advise you on the best flights to Christchurch for the start of your trip there!
Breakfast
The Details
What's Included
- All meals as per itinerary
- All transport and shuttles
- Guiding and hosting
- All park entrance fees
- All accommodation
- Luggage transfers
What's Not Included
- International and domestic flights
- Travel Insurance
- Personal hiking gear
- Luggage
- Personal snacks
- Alcoholic beverages
Accommodation
We understand the importance of a good nights rest. We have carefully chosen only locally owned lodgings that understand the importance of a place to unwind and share the experience with your fellow travelers. While you won’t be glamming it up at the Ritz (that’s not our style), you’ll enjoy a comfortable accommodation with amazing local hosts.
Flights
The international gateway into New Zealand is Auckland International Airport. There are numerous connecting domestic flights to Rotorua from Auckland (30 minute flight) which you can easily add on when you reserve your flights. You can also arrive to Rotorua from Auckland by bus, or rental car (2.5 hour drive). Ask us for help with any of these arrangements!
Frequently Asked Questions
DO I NEED A VISA TO TRAVEL TO NEW ZEALAND?
Visas are currently not required for Australian, US, Canadian or UK/EU passport holders wishing to visit New Zealand. If you are outside these regions, please check with your embassy. You can also check the Visa HQ website for up todate information.
New Zealand’s border opens to international travelers from May 2022.
WHAT ABOUT DRINKING WATER?
Water from the tap is safe to drink in New Zealand. Because of the nature of our day hikes on this trip, you’ll be able to fill your water bottle(s) for the day from the tap at our accommodation, as well as other places in the area where tap water is available. The other good thing is – New Zealand’s tap water tastes great!
WHAT WILL THE WEATHER/TEMPERATURE BE LIKE?
New Zealand has a largely temperate climate. While North has subtropical weather during summer, and inland alpine areas of the South Island can be as cold as -10 C in winter, most of the country lies close to the coast, which means mild temperatures, moderate rainfall, and abundant sunshine.
When it comes to temperatures, the North Island can reach 25 °C (77F) from late November and December, 30 °C (86F) through January and February and 20 °C (68) from mid March to mid April.
IS LAUNDRY AVAILABLE?
Yes. Laundry is available in Rotorua, as well as Ohakune, where we base ourselves for the middle section of our trip.
WHAT IS THE MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE?
Our maximum group size for this trip is 10 people.
WHAT ABOUT ALTITUDE?
Altitude isn’t really a factor on our North Island adventure. Even though we do plenty of hikes where we gain significant elevation, we don’t venture into altitudes that have an effect on us.
HOW STRENUOUS IS THIS TRIP?
This is an moderate hiking trip which is suitable for those who have some experience with hiking and a good general physical condition. Most of the hikes are on established trails, but there is also some steep terrain through rooted forest trails and high alpine areas that have scree and small boulders. Average walking times: approx. 5 hours each day.
IMPORTANT! There are some long inclines so if you are at all unsteady on your feet we highly recommend you also bring a retractable walking pole(s). Comfortable walking/hiking shoes are essential, along with a small day-pack and water bottle.
IS WIFI AVAILABLE?
Wifi is available in our Rotorua and National Park hotels. 5G reception is generally available in built up areas and in some of the areas where we explore, but equally, there are significant portions of some of the regions we visit that have no coverage!
WILL I HAVE TO CARRY ALL MY BELONGINGS ON THE HIKES?
No. Because all our hikes on this trip are day hikes, you’ll only be carrying the stuff you’ll be needing for that day – in a day pack. Talk to us if you need recommendations on day packs.
WHAT IS THE ROOMING SITUATION?
The rooming on the trip is based on twin and double share. Because of limited space in lodges along the way, there are no options for single supplements.
IS THERE A SINGLE SUPPLEMENT FEE IF I'M COMING ON MY OWN?
No! Many other travel companies put this on single travelers, but we think this is unfair. If you specifically request your own room, there is a single supplement to pay. Please get in touch with us to enquire about this.
WHERE DO I FLY TO?
When you book your flights, you should fly into Auckland International Airport, and onwards to Rotorua. This is a very short (30 minutes) domestic flight. If you need assitance with flights, let us know – we can help!
It was an amazing trip with beautiful landscapes and amazing people. Very well organized and fun. Thank you Phil – we will come with you again.
Caroline Moulin
Paris, France.
North Island
March 2023
This is a once in a lifetime experience. I will remember it forever. I think the team does a fantastic job of organising, encouraging and inspiring you to keep going. I can’t wait to do another trip with Conqueror Adventures. I’ve come out of it inspired, motivated and yearning for more. I also made two wonderful friends I will cherish forever.
Nadine Finlay
Sydney, Australia.
North Island
March 2023
The Conqueror Adventures made it extremely easy to just hop on a plane and enjoy the ride! Amazing trip. Loved it!
Wallace Alley
TN, USA.
North Island
November 2022
Meet Our Guides
At The Conqueror Adventures, our journey is led by the passionate and experienced individuals who have an unwavering love for the great outdoors. These are the adventurers who guide you through rugged landscapes, lead you to hidden gems, and share their profound knowledge of the destinations we explore.
In this section, we invite you to meet our guides, the heartbeat of our hiking tours. These individuals are more than just experts; they are passionate storytellers, nature enthusiasts, and cultural interpreters. They bring the landscapes to life, adding a layer of depth to your adventure that can’t be found in guidebooks.
Their stories, insights, and profound love for the destinations they explore are integral to the exceptional experiences we provide. Get to know the adventurers who will be your companions on the trail, leading you through extraordinary journeys filled with discovery, camaraderie, and the joy of exploration.
Phil Boorman
Founder, Guide & CEO
Phil Boorman
Founder and boss, Phil is at his best when he’s leading a group. He has spent his entire working life, leading and designing adventures in almost every continent in the world. It’s just in his blood and he’ll never give it up. You’ll still find Phil leading trips in Italy, Nepal, and New Zealand which is his home. Phil loves whitewater kayaking, backcountry skiing and mountain biking in his free time.
“I’ve done a tonne of guided trips in my time, and traveling with Phil was by far, THE best and most fulfilling experience I’ve had – he was genuine, attentive and clearly loves what he does.”
Ed Stone, USA – June 2016
Dylan Arthur
New Zealand
Dylan Arthur
Dylan is an enthusiastic young hiking addict who takes a particular interest in the North Island. His side hustle is landscape, outdoor and travel photography. To say he’s handy with a lens or two is an understatement.
Check out his considerable talent here – https://www.dylanarthur.com/
“Dylan was a wealth of information on the flora and fauna. More than that, he was our can-do leader, inspiring us at every step of the trail and every day on our trip!”
Katharine Chiu, USA – November 2022
Mike Dawson
New Zealand
Mike Dawson
Mike is 2 time former Olympian and world renowned adventurer, having embarked on expeditions to the far reaches of the globe, including Angola, Pakistan and recently a ski expedition to the South Pole. New Zealand is his first love though, and he’s right at home guiding in the South Island where he first developed his love of the outdoors. There’s nothing he can’t handle!
Brad Taylor
New Zealand
Brad Taylor
Brad is a hiking veteran with over 21 years experience in the New Zealand’s outdoors. Originally trained as a whitewater rafting guide, Brad made the switch to trail adventures early and has never looked back. He’s quick with an interesting story about our native New Zealand flora and fauna and loves his 80’s pop culture and vintage Star Wars memorabilia.
Hamish Tills
New Zealand
Hamish Tills
Hamish comes from the same breed that almost all our guides come from. Originally a river guide and expedition kayaker, Hamish has been a guide and adventurer his whole working life and knows our wilderness areas like the back of his hand. He has SO many stories of great adventures he’s led and been a team member of. You’re in THE best hands with Hamish!
Why Travel With The Conqueror Adventures
When it comes to embarking on extraordinary journeys, you have a choice. So why choose The Conqueror Adventures? Our unwavering commitment to redefining adventure travel sets us apart. We don’t just offer hiking tours; we offer experiences that challenge limits, ignite curiosity, and foster meaningful connections.
Our meticulously crafted adventures are designed to leave a profound and lasting impact, pushing you to step boldly into the uncharted. Discover why adventurers around the world choose to explore with us, and join our global community of explorers, wanderers, and adventure enthusiasts. Your extraordinary journey starts here.
Logistics
Transport, permits, transfers, awesome places to stay, and everything in between. We’ve covered all the details, so you can simply enjoy.
ALL-INCLUSIVE
Meals, experienced guides, cool locally owned accommodation, transport… Once you arrive, there’s no need to dip into your pocket.
Hosts with the Most
Our guiding teams are THE best around. Every Conqueror trip is lead by an experienced guide and leader combo.
The Conqueror Spirit
Step boldly, share your goals and make every mile and moment count. Our trips and destinations are awesome, but it’s our like-minded community who make it unforgettable.
Rest Easy
Locally owned, stylish and comfortable. We’ve carefully chosen accommodations that ensure you get a comfortable nights sleep, great meals and creature comforts.
Pre Trip Care
Getting on the plane isn’t the beginning of your journey with us. From the moment you book, we’ll make sure you’re well prepared for your trip of a lifetime and ready to step boldly.
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