Top North Island Eco Tours

The Waitomo Glowworm Caves are a must-visit North Island attraction, and while many day tours depart from Auckland, this handy tour is ideal for independent travelers who can make their own way to the caves. The Ruakuri Cave is the longest, with impressive rock formations, subterranean rivers, and thousands of glittering glowworms. Explore the magnificent cave on a guided walking tour and learn more about Māori culture as you go.

Enjoy one of New Zealand’s original tourist attractions: a tour of the magnificent Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Your guide—who may be descended from the Māori chief who first discovered the caves—leads you underground and tells you about the cultural significance of this site. Hop into a boat and glide on an underground river, enjoying the light show put on by millions of tiny bioluminescent insects hanging above.

This is the best way to experience the highlights of Auckland’s West Coast. Enjoy a private tour with no need to rush — the itinerary is always tailored to your pace and interests. We will visit Arataki Visitor center, Karekare Falls, Mercer bay loop and Piha beach We are happy to add destinations or adjust the schedule based on what you’d like to see. Minimum required for this tour is 2 people

Discover Rotorua from a different angle on a fun “duck” tour. This sightseeing adventure takes you aboard an authentic World War II-era amphibious vehicle, able to travel on land and water. Start with a city tour before splashing down into a couple of Rotorua’s many scenic lakes. Listen to live commentary about Rotorua’s history and local landmarks along the way. A family-friendly tour that everyone will enjoy.

Explore the geothermal landscape of Rotorua at your own pace on this self-guided Waimangu hiking tour. Follow winding hiking trails through Waimangu — the world’s youngest geothermal system — and marvel at the scenery you find. Admire unique geothermal features including Frying Pan Lake, Inferno Crater Lake and Lake Rotomahana, and enjoy breathtaking views over hot springs and steam vents throughout the forest and grasslands. Along the way, gain insight into the geothermal activity from your guide sheet and watch for the native plant and animal life for which Waimangu is famous. Enjoy a much needed rest and take advantage of the shuttle bus to return you to the start at the end of your hike.

Join our Dark Sky Stargazing Tour in Auckland for a celestial adventure. Your expert guide reveals southern sky wonders using a laser pointer, Maori legends, star navigation, and star birth insights. Discover that 80% can't see the Milky Way due to light pollution; 79% have never seen a starry night. Explore celestial mythology with deities like Ranginui, Rehua, Whiro, and Hinenuitepō. Learn about captivating star patterns called asterisms ⁂. Stargazing nurtures awe, tranquility, and relaxation, reducing stress and fostering curiosity about the universe. It promotes a sense of connectedness and inclusivity. Embrace the cosmos, gain knowledge, and enjoy communal stargazing. Step outside, look up, and embark on a journey of discovery and wonder with us. If you would like to add glamping accomodation, food and drinks or photograpy please let us know!

West Coast Wonders – 4 Hours Scenic Tour from Auckland CBD - Piha Beach - Kitekite Falls Leave the city behind and immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Auckland’s west coast. This half-day exploratory tour takes you through lush rainforests, iconic black-sand beaches, and hidden waterfalls. Begin your journey to the gateway to the Waitākere Ranges. Enjoy sweeping views of the ocean and native forest. Visit Piha Beach, famous for its dramatic coastline, powerful surf, and the towering Lion Rock. Stroll and self explore the black sands and take in the rugged charm of New Zealand’s original surf haven. Then, take a short bushwalk to the stunning Kitekite Falls, a serene, multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by native forest. Enjoy a peaceful moment or a refreshing dip in the natural pool.

Delight in the birdsong on magical Waiheke Island, one of NZ’s best birding destinations. Waiheke is increasingly a bird lover’s paradise thanks to our extensive reforestation and government-funded predator-free Waiheke project, Te Korowai O Waiheke. Join us to discover seabirds, shorebirds as well as birds of the forest in our regional park. Spot all the major species that make their home here whilst learning about our conservation efforts, their habitat and what makes these species special.

If you’re a nature lover, the island sanctuary of Tiritiri Matangi offers the chance to spot rare native wildlife that are tricky to see anywhere else in the region. Hop aboard the ferry in Auckland and explore the island’s walking trails and beaches, keeping an eye out for tuatara reptiles, and rare birds such as the kokako, takahe, and tieke.

Experience one of the wonders of New Zealand’s natural world on this glowworm caving adventure in Waitomo. Pull on your boots and helmet before heading through the private farmland and native forest to the Mangarongapu Cave system with a local guide and small group. With your headlamp to light the way, hike around huge boulders and through shallow streams, and marvel at the millions of bright green glowworms illuminating the rocky limestone.

The best way to experience the Aquarium, this guided tour focuses on our wonderful native icons including the Kiwi and Tuatara. Your chance to view Kiwi in our wonderful nocturnal house where day turns into night. Take a close look at Kiwi Egg, and learn about their quirky habits, favourite meal, and more from our knowledgeable guide. Tuatara can be tricky to spot - our guide will uncover the mysteries of New Zealand's 'living fossil' and then introduce you to our famous rescued Little Penguins along with some of our other residents.

Visit two of New Zealand's must-see attractions on this combo tour from Auckland to the Hobbiton™ Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Peek into Hobbit holes, frolic in the Shire, and get a drink at the Green Dragon Inn on a guided tour of Middle-earth, followed by a café lunch. In the afternoon, explore Māori myths and history on an underground boat ride at Waitomo, surrounded by thousands of glowworms.

Discover New Zealand’s iconic Piha Beach on our West Coast Discovery tour! Starting with a pick-up from the 4 hotels listed in Auckland CBD, enjoy a 30-minute scenic drive through the Waitakere Ranges. Our first stop is the Arataki Visitor Centre, where you’ll learn about New Zealand’s native trees and enjoy sweeping views over the ranges—an ideal start to exploring the west coast. Next, we take a 20-minute drive to Karekare Waterfalls, where a short, easy walk leads you to this stunning natural site, perfect for photos. Then, we head to the famous Piha Surf Beach, known for its black iron-sand and thrilling waves from the Tasman Sea, where you can go for a swim or just relax and enjoy the stunning views. Be sure to visit Lion Rock, located at the heart of the beach, for breathtaking views and unforgettable photo opportunities. After that, we head back to Auckland CBD.

See the untamed beauty of New Zealand’s west coast on this North Island day trip from Auckland, which saves you from having to navigate rugged roads on your own. Travel with a guide to the Waitakere Ranges, with a stop at the Arataki Visitor Centre overlook for views of the Tasman Sea out to the Pacific Ocean. Admire Maori carvings before a guided rainforest walk, then visit giant kauri trees and one of the area’s magnificent black sand beaches. A moderate fitness level is required for this active tour.

Auckland’s 1076-foot (328-meter) Sky Tower is one of the city’s most popular attractions, especially for first-time visitors. Save money and time by pre-booking your general Sky Tower admission ticket, which allows you to visit the observation decks. Get quickly orientated and spot key landmarks such as the Harbour Bridge, Mount Eden, and Waiheke Island. Souvenir photos are available to purchase.

Discover New Zealand’s geothermal hotspots on a day trip from Rotorua to Lake Taupo, stopping to explore one of two remarkable destinations. Select Orakei Korako to see terraced pools of steaming water, or opt for Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland’s otherworldly colors. Limited to 11 people for more personal service, this day trip includes pickup and drop-off at centrally-located hotels, as well as entrance fees at the geothermal site.

Enjoy an America’s Cup sailing experience aboard an authentic racing yacht on Auckland's scenic Waitemata Harbour. Feel the exhilaration of yachting as you take the helm and participate with the professional crew, or just sit back and soak up the harbor views. No sailing experience is necessary and this is a fun activity for keen sailors and complete beginners alike. Wet-weather jackets and sunscreen keep you comfortable.

Cruise Auckland's Hauraki Gulf Marine Park on a 4.5-hour eco safari to spot whales, dolphins, seals, and rare seabirds. Enjoy expert commentary and close encounters with diverse marine wildlife in stunning island scenery, departing from downtown Auckland's Viaduct Harbour.

Explore the Waitakere Ranges and Auckland’s rugged west coast, including Piha Beach, during an afternoon tour with a guide knowledgeable about New Zealand flora and fauna. From the Arataki Centre, admire sweeping views of the ocean and distant city. Learn about Māori history, stroll on the black-sand beach, and take a nature walk through a lush rainforest while you experience one of Auckland's largest regional parks.

Experience Hawke's Bay on this scenic 28km (17 mile) cycle ride. The route follows beautiful coastal bike trail. Visit Atea A Rangi Star Compass and enjoy wildlife in the estuary wetlands. The trail turns inland along Tukituki River valley vineyards. You can visit up to 4 wineries. Enjoy local cuisine, wine tasting or a glass of wine before our shuttle comes to take you back to Napier. This is a self-guided bike ride, you'll be provided map with directions and highlights. The route is 28km (17 mile) long and almost all cycle trail. Hospitality venues: Askerne Wines- open Mon-Sun Craggy Range - open Mon-Sun (requires 5km detour, booking essential) Te Mata Estate - open Mon-Sun Black Barn - open Mon-Sun Return shuttle departs Black Barn at 4pm. Booking wine tasting and lunch is recommended, especially on weekends.

Sail away on a harbor cruise in Auckland and enjoy a 3-course dinner as you sail past Waitemata Harbour highlights, including the Sky Tower and Auckland Harbour Bridge. Board your yacht at the Viaduct Harbour and enjoy a welcome drink. Learn about Auckland and its scenic sights from your captain. As evening falls, dinner is served onboard while you sail.

Visit two of the North Island’s most popular attractions on this full-day tour. First, head to Middle-earth and take a guided tour around the otherworldly Hobbiton™ Movie Set. Then, make your way to Rotorua to the incredible Geothermal Valley. See the largest geyser in the Southern Hemisphere, bubbling mud pools, native kiwi birds, and learn about the Māori people. Hotel transfers from central Auckland are included for added convenience.

Make the most of your time in Auckland with a full-day adventure to the Coromandel Peninsula. Begin with hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off from select hotels in Auckland CBD, then travel on a scenic route packed with photo stops, including Hot Water Beach, Cathedral Cove, and the Driving Creek Railway, where you can enjoy a memorable ride through lush forest, tunnels, and viaducts.