Top North Island Half-day Tours - page 13

Tour Highlights: Start your journey with a convenient pickup from iSite Rotorua Visitor Center, 1167 Fenton Street, Rotorua, and enjoy a scenic drive to Waimangu Volcanic Valley. Created by the 1886 Mount Tarawera eruption, Waimangu is the world’s youngest geothermal system. Upon arrival, explore a breathtaking landscape filled with unique geothermal features, including Frying Pan Lake, the world’s largest hot spring, and the mesmerizing blue Inferno Crater. Wander through steaming craters, bubbling pools, and vividly colored terrain, witnessing the powerful forces of nature and the vibrant regeneration of the valley. This tour allows you to experience Waimangu’s stunning blend of geothermal wonders and lush greenery at your own pace. Please complete your walk by 12:30 pm for a convenient return to Rotorua, bringing back unforgettable memories of this extraordinary place.

Imagine gliding across a glass-like lake, surrounded by native forest with nothing but the sound of your paddle dipping into the water and bird song. This is the experience of The Hidden Lake kayak tour. We'll take you on a journey to Taupō’s secret sanctuary, a peaceful and untouched place where the beauty of nature takes centre stage. From the intriguing sight of a sunken forest beneath the water to the secluded tranquillity of a hidden canyon, this is more than a tour—it's an escape. The sheltered location means this peaceful and unforgettable adventure can be enjoyed in any weather. Tour Highlights: Paddle over the mysterious sunken forest Explore hidden waterways and the beautiful canyon Enjoy close encounters with native birdlife Perfect for families, beginners, and nature lovers Runs year-round in most weather conditions

Let us take care of all the logistics and you can just enjoy the ride. 3.5 -4 hours riding around some of the most scenic cycle paths and cycle trails that Auckland has to offer. Our guides have all the experience and knowledge to make this a memorable outing and get you to sites that you wouldn't find by yourself. Riding our premium e-bikes is a breeze and means that you can lift your head up and enjoy the surroundings rather than focusing on pedaling your bike and wondering when the next food stop is. Your ride will follow scenic waterways, either the coastline or substantial streams, that are all linked to Auckland's history to enrich your experience. You'll be surprised at how much natural beauty can still be found in urban Auckland, and it's all accessible on a grade 1 cycle trail, so even beginners or inexperienced riders can feel comfortable with this tour.

Whitecilffs Boulders are an eerie Boulder Garden sitting on the banks of the Rangitikei River. Lunching amongst these Boulders midway through a gentle drift down the river is a fantastic way to discover the Rangitikei. The trip begins right in front of our café and entails a gentle drift down to the Whitecliffs Boulders. Lunch is laid out while you explore the Boulder Garden. Once you have had your fill, of both lunch and the setting, we continue on downstream. We transport you back to the café after your trip for a snack and a cuppa!

Immerse yourself in the living traditions, stories and landscapes of Māori culture on Waiheke Island. Travel with our Māori ambassador, Paora, who shares his whakapapa (genealogy), personal stories and deep connection to the island. Visit sacred sites and a local village, hear powerful tales of land wars, resilience and present-day Māori life, and see how ancient customs sit alongside modern New Zealand. Along the way, you’ll step inside a contemporary art studio to see how local artists respond to the land and culture through their work. Between stories and art, you’ll enjoy a relaxed day of kai (food), wine and waiata (song). Taste boutique Waiheke wines, and sit down to a seafront lunch with beautiful island views. This small-group experience is welcoming, conversational and respectful, giving you space to ask questions, connect with the people behind the culture and leave with a richer understanding of Aotearoa New Zealand.

Our priority is your satisfaction, so we limit our groups to a small size of 5 people per vehicle, in a comfy van. We also have extra vehicle access for certain spots, allowing us to take you the extra mile comfortably all the way. Discover Auckland's top sights: Auckland Harbour Bridge, the biggest bridge in NZ where you'll learn about its history; Mount Eden, the highest volcanic mountain in Auckland offering panoramic views and insight into Maori culture; North Head, featuring historic tunnels and fortifications with tales of maritime defense; Winter Garden in Auckland Domain, a tranquil oasis boasting lush greenery and elegant glasshouses; and MJ Savage Memorial Park, honoring New Zealand's first Labour Prime Minister, with iconic views of Waitematā Harbour. Unforgettable experiences await on our guided tour package. Book now to discover Auckland's rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes."

This half-day tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts looking to enjoy a personalized and authentic experience. First, we will take you to Kumeu Wine Country, one of Auckland's most renowned wine regions, just a short drive from the city center. Here, you can savor award-winning wines while enjoying a delicious lunch at a vibrant local favorite. Next, we will visit Muriwai Beach, where you can take in the stunning views of the Tasman Sea. Our tour offers great value compared to other similar tours and is ideal for those looking for a brief but truly local adventure. Take this opportunity to discover premium wines and beautiful landscapes, and create memorable experiences. *This tour is highly recommended for guests with limited time, such as those arriving by cruise ship. **Please note that the visiting wineries may vary depending on availability at each facility. ***Please let us know in advance if you have any food restrictions.

Explore the exquisite wine region of Hawkes Bay on this Signature Wine Tour, departing from Napier. Enjoy personalized tastings at four top wineries, with a focus on your preferred wine styles and flavors. Indulge in an artisanal cheese platter during the tour, which includes all tasting fees, ensuring a leisurely experience in a maximum group size of six. Travel in comfort in our luxury Mercedes V-Class MPV, with convenient pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation in Napier, Hastings, or Havelock North. - Tailored wine tastings based on your preferences - Visit four premium wineries with expert guidance - Enjoy an artisanal cheese platter at the second winery - Maximum group size of six for a personalized experience

Auckland Night Tour: Mount Eden, Harbour Bridge View & Night Market Discover Auckland’s night-time charm with our relaxed and scenic evening tour. This small-group night tour takes you to some of the most beloved local spots, offering stunning views, local flavour, and cultural experiences. * Departure Time Summer Season: 8:00 PM Winter Season: 6:00 PM

Explore the vibrant culinary scene of Auckland on the Ponsonby Road Food Tour, a three-hour walking experience through one of the city's most stylish neighborhoods. This intimate tour, limited to 10 guests, allows participants to savor artisan ice cream, bold Italian dishes, and fragrant Asian-inspired bites, while engaging with the passionate local chefs and food artisans. In addition to the delightful food, guests will visit boutique fashion houses and perfumeries, making it a comprehensive sensory adventure. - Three-hour guided walking food tour of Ponsonby Road - Taste a variety of local dishes from artisan ice cream to Italian flavors - Small group experience with a maximum of 12 participants - Starts at 11:00 am and includes visits to unique fashion and perfume shops

Discover Auckland's coastal hidden gems on our North Shore tour! Explore scenic Shakespear Regional Park, relax on vast Long Bay beach, enjoy a brief stop in charming Browns Bay, and experience vibrant Takapuna with its famous Rangitoto views. See beautiful local favourites beyond the city buzz – book your North Shore adventure today!

Come for an exclusive experience inside the Heretaunga Studio at award-winning Smith & Sheth. This beautifully curated wine journey invites you to experience wine through all your senses in a thoughtful, intimate environment. Every detail is intentional, every pour personal. Imagine fine wine, beautiful design, with immersive storytelling. Plus, we get to taste wine straight from the barrels. After Smith & Sheth, we'll visit a second Urban Winery where creativity, craft, and bold winemaking come to life in unexpected ways... The Urban Wine Tour is not your average wine tour. It's a fresh alternative to the traditional Wine tastings, taking you beyond the vines and into exciting urban spaces. This is wine tasting reimagined — stylish, intimate, and full of surprises. This is Hawke's Bay Wine Country with a twist. - Small Group Tour. * To request Alternative start times or tour customisations - Book on our Mates Travel website.

Your dog is welcome on this Island Adventure! The day is designed to meet your specific needs so that we get to do exactly what you would like to do on your special day out on Waiheke with the best local host for inside tips and luxury transport.

Enjoy this spectacular private walk with your friends, and you'll experience a little bit of everything – bush, beaches, headlands and vineyards. We start with a walk through restored and regenerating bush up to the headland for some breathtaking views of the islands of the Hauraki Gulf. We continue through lush, established bush tracks and rolling hills, where you’ll enjoy lovely views of valleys, vineyards and the sea. There’s time for wine tasting and/or lunch at two of Waiheke’s best-loved vineyards – Mudbrick Vineyard, Jurassic Ridge or Cable Bay Vineyards – with tasting options to suit all budgets.

Experience the top sights of Auckland City and the marine village of Devonport on Auckland’s North Shore on a private tour just for you. Be amazed by views of ancient volcanoes, the Waitemata Harbour, and Hauraki Gulf from your comfortable Mercedes vehicle. Drive across the Auckland Harbour Bridge and explore some of Auckland’s most famous beaches with included hotel pickup.

Experience the twin headlands of Matiatia and Church Bay on Waiheke Island, walking with your private group and an expert local guide. This walk consists of two parts, with lunch in between. Sometimes we do the northern route first, and sometimes the southern. Why is that? Well, we often need to work around the tides! Northern route (approx 2 hours): We’ll walk around the Matiatia headland and past Owhanake Bay, enjoying beautiful views of the Hauraki Gulf Islands, Great Barrier Island and Coromandel Peninsula. You’ll spot sea birds, native plants and, if you’re lucky, orcas or dolphins. We’ll stop for lunch at Oneroa Village. You can eat in one of the local cafes or have a picnic on the beach with food you’ve purchased or brought with you. Southern route (approx 2 hours): We’ll walk through Pio Rehutai Reserve and around the Church Bay headland through a sculpture park and a stunning bush reserve. We’ll pass hidden coves and amazing homes, as we enjoy view of the city and sea.

Begin your journey with a warm welcome and artisan coffee at a rustic farm shop before being collected from your hotel. Your day unfolds among rolling vineyards and wild landscapes: sip exquisite wines at a boutique estate, feel the ocean breeze on Muriwai’s dramatic black-sand shores, and arrive at Vineyard Cottages, a private vineyard retreat and home of The Big Foody Food Tours. Here, you are invited to slow down. Wander the vines with your hosts, discovering the stories of the land and its people. Taste New Zealand’s finest — elegant wines, small-batch gins, craft beers — alongside thoughtful non-alcoholic pairings created with the same attention to detail. As the afternoon lingers, gather for a gourmet barbecue prepared with seasonal produce, artisan cheeses, fresh seafood, and tender local meats. This is more than a tour; it is an invitation into the heart of New Zealand hospitality — generous, intimate, and unforgettable.

Watching Auckland ignite with spectacular autumn sunset colours, then sinking into blissfully warm hot pools under the emerging stars. Stop dreaming and make it your reality on this unforgettable Auckland evening escape!

Discover the incredible hidden paradise of Waiheke Island with this wine tour. Board the ferry from Auckland City to arrive at the local Matiatia wharf to launch your adventure. Explore hidden beaches, and the town centre's art, before heading to local vineyards. Taste the wine of multiple vineyards, including Mudbrick, and sample olive oils on the Rangihoua Estate. After indulging in a delicious lunch, board the convenient return ferry.

- Half-day Auckland tour covering the city’s highlights - Small group setting for a relaxed and personal experience - Convenient pickup from central hotels and cruise ship terminal - Capture memorable photos at Auckland’s best viewpoints Explore the best of New Zealand’s largest city in a short time. This half day small group tour takes you to iconic landmarks like Auckland Harbour Bridge, Westhaven Marina, and Mount Eden for sweeping views over the city and harbour. With comfortable transport and an expert local guide, you’ll enjoy a perfect balance of sightseeing, photo stops, and cultural insights

Experience Auckland from the water on a private charter—cruise past iconic landmarks, unwind with gourmet delights, and explore islands your way. Half Day Charter (3 hours) - Departs from Viaduct Harbour, passing through a lifting drawbridge into Waitemata Harbour. - Sails west under the Harbour Bridge, past the CBD and Devonport Naval Base. - Passes Mount Victoria, Cheltenham, and Narrow Neck beaches. - Returns to Viaduct Marina via Auckland’s scenic North Shore. - Glass of champagne plus fruit and cheese board. Full Day Charter (6 hours) Departs from Viaduct Harbour via a lifting drawbridge into Waitemata Harbour. - Cruises toward Motuihe Island with scenic views of the CBD, Devonport Naval Base, Mount Victoria, North Head, and Rangitoto. - Anchors at Motuihe Island for swimming, bush walks, kayaking, or paddle boarding. - Lunch is served onboard while anchored. - Returns to Viaduct Marina after lunch. - Champagne bottle. Overnight Charter: - Up to 6 guests. - Fully customizable.

Explore the Karapiro section of the Waikato River Trail from Arapuni Dam or the Arapuni Swing Bridge to the northern end of the trail on this guided half-day bike tour. Ride alongside the Waikato River through peaceful farmland, native bush, and wetland boardwalks while taking in beautiful river views along the way. Your local guide shares stories about the region and its hydro-power history, making this a memorable experience for nature lovers, active travellers, and riders looking to experience one of the Waikato’s most iconic cycling trails.

Explore two of the Coromandel’s most iconic islands with exclusive guided access into these protected sanctuaries. Your trip will begin by boat, cruising past the famous Whangamatā Bar surf break, before anchoring at Hauturu (Clark Island). A short climb up Nature's Staircase is rewarded with ocean views along the eco-trail. The adventure continues with an optional, guide-led entry into Whenuakura Wildlife Sanctuary (Donut Island). Floating your way into the hidden lagoon is an experience unlike anything else in New Zealand.

DEPARTS TAURANGA - Experience a slice of the Bay of Plenty and Rotorua on this scenic six-hour journey filled with coastal beauty, towering forests, geothermal parks, and local hidden gems. PLEASE NOTE: This tour does enter the geothermal valley for the geyser eruption. If you would like to see this please book the Rotorua Geothermal Wonderland Tour