Top North Island Outdoor Activities - page 23

Enjoy an exclusive private tour of Auckland’s West Coast. Relax on a scenic, chauffeured drive and enjoy a round of links-style golf at South Head, a hidden gem offering breathtaking ocean and mountain views. Advance tee time reservations are required. Please note that the golf course location may change depending on weather conditions or scheduled events. Proper golf attire and swimwear are required. Hot spring visits can be added upon request after the round of golf.

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.

Delight in a dark sky experience on Waiheke Island. Join us for a night walk and a special stargazing experience on Waiheke Island – far enough away from the city to have a stunning night sky. We offer customised tours with telescopes, binoculars and the naked eye with our specialist guides. Learn all about the Southern skies and discover planets, constellations, distant stars and galaxies.

A journey of discovery across the Auckland region. From the maunga (mountains) to the spectacular harbours of the Auckland region and the stunning west and east coasts and city environs, see the best of the Auckland region with our expert guides. We can curate the itinerary to suit your interests, including visiting sites of historic significance with Ngati Whatua O Tamaki, or visit our regional parks for a discovery walk in nature, or enjoy our galleries and artists, best restaurants and artisans. The choice is yours for a half day of touring!

Dive into a region of mouthwatering cuisine, spectacular walking and world-class art. Whether you’re marvelling at world-class sculptures while enjoying a winery lunch at Brick Bay Sculpture Park or exploring the breathtaking trails of Tāwharanui Regional Park and the Mangawhai Coastal Walkway, you’re sure to be enchanted by the Matakana Coast. Possible locations to select from in your customisable tour: Tawharanui Regional Park, Mangawhai coastal trail and village, Matakana village – chocolatier, galleries, Brick Bay Sculpture Park, Sawmill Brewery.

Dive into a region of mouthwatering cuisine, spectacular walking and world-class art. Let us design the perfect day of private, personalised touring on the stunning Matakana Coast. We’ll create an itinerary that’s tailored to your tastes, drawing on a variety of unique experiences that includes wine-tasting at local cellar doors, exploring incredible sculpture parks, galleries and artists’ studios, soaking up the beauty of Tawharanui Regional Park, and browsing the artisan delights of Matakana Village. Possible inclusions: Tawharanui Regional Park, Mangawhai coastal trail and village, Matakana village – chocolatier, galleries, vineyards, artists’ studios, Brick Bay Sculpture Park, Sawmill Brewery, Leigh Marine Reserve, Hundertwasser Gallery, food growers.

Experience a paradise of sweeping coastal landscapes, rich cultural history and spectacular forest and coastal trails. Come with us to explore the east coast of Northland, which remains one of the best-kept secrets in Aotearoa. You’ll find deserted beaches of golden sand and spectacular coastal and forest hiking trails, a thriving local art scene and endless opportunities to indulge in fabulous cuisine. Crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life have earned the Poor Knights Marine Reserve its reputation as one of the world’s best places for snorkelling and diving. Possible inclusions: coastal walking, picnic or café lunch, swim at a deserted beach, visits to gardens and artists’ studios, cross the longest footbridge in New Zealand, Te Waiariki Ngawha Hot Springs. Alternatively, we can include a visit to the spectacular Whangārei Heads and the captivating Hundertwasser Gallery in Whangārei.

Fasten your seatbelts for a thrilling 35-minute Auckland Adventure Jetboat ride. Experience Auckland's premier and only jetboat ride with views that rival other cities. Leaving the Southern hemispheres largest marina it's not hard to see why Auckland is called the city of sails. Once outside the marina we start opening up the throttle unleashing 900hp and speeds of nearly 100kmh drifting and spinning while soaking up the stunning skyline views & highlights. This is a family friendly low impact jetboat ride giving everyone the thrill while actually showing you the best views of Auckland's Waitamata harbour.

We are located in central Hamilton. Get your team together and put your detective hats on to see if you can solve the clues and puzzles to escape in 60 minutes or less...... DIFFICULTY LEVEL: 4/5 FAMILY FRIENDLINESS: 3/5 The Story: You're a struggling journalist, desperate for a story. One night, you see some strange lights in the sky, followed by an explosion! Immediately, you start your investigations, but every lead is a dead end. Finally, you find it. A secure government site in the middle of nowhere. You watch the area and learn that all the staff leave the site for one hour every day. You have one hour to break in and find out what is going on.

Go beyond the ordinary on this exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the world-famous Hobbiton Movie Set, made famous by The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Depart from The Shire’s Rest and enjoy an intimate, fully guided walking tour that dives deeper into the making of Middle-earth. Explore the interiors of a Hobbit home, dine like a Hobbit with a banquet-style lunch at The Millhouse, and visit areas not accessible on regular tours — including the Art Department workshop. Wrap up your journey with a scenic Hobbit-style cheese platter overlooking the Shire. This is not just a tour — it’s your backstage pass to the magic of movie-making.

Our full-day private tour offers a personal and flexible way to discover the Bay of Islands. Departing from Auckland, enjoy a scenic drive through Northland’s rolling hills before arriving in Paihia, where your journey begins. Step aboard a purpose-built catamaran for a 4.5-hour cruise designed for comfort and wildlife encounters. Look out for dolphins and other marine wildlife as you explore secluded coves, sandy beaches, and the islands that make this region special. You’ll also visit the iconic Hole in the Rock and Cape Brett cliffs, conditions permitting, guided by local skippers who bring you close to the action. Your experience includes an unhurried stop at Urupukapuka Island, with time to relax on the beach, enjoy a picnic, or hike to panoramic viewpoints. To finish, return to Auckland along scenic backroads, taking in more of the Far North’s beauty. More than a tour, this is a relaxed private journey designed around you.

Experience Auckland in comfort on a private half-day tour that blends the city’s most famous sights with hidden gems. With your own personal guide and convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off, you’ll have more time to explore at your own pace, without the rush of a large group. Discover historic landmarks such as the Ferry Building and Auckland Harbour Bridge, enjoy panoramic views from Mount Eden and Achilles Point, and soak up the character of vibrant neighborhoods like Ponsonby, K Road, and Devonport. As you travel, your guide shares engaging stories that bring each stop to life, from Auckland’s rich maritime heritage to its thriving cultural scene. Scenic coastal drives and visits to charming seaside suburbs round out the experience, offering a well-rounded introduction to the City of Sails in just a few unforgettable hours

Our private West Auckland tour blends natural beauty, cultural discovery, and personal comfort, creating an experience that goes far beyond standard sightseeing. Begin at the Arataki Visitor Centre, the welcoming gateway to the Waitākere Ranges, where a towering carved post, sweeping coastal views, and interactive displays introduce the region’s stories. From here, enjoy a rainforest walk among native trees, ferns, and gaining a sense of New Zealand’s unique ecosystem before pausing for a short refreshments break to recharge. The journey continues to Piha Beach, renowned for its volcanic black sand, dramatic surf, and the iconic Lion Rock. With the flexibility of private transport, you can take your time at each stop, enjoy free entry to attractions, and travel without the rush of large groups. Combined with friendly guiding and the convenience of hotel pick-up and drop-off, this tour offers a seamless, personalized way to connect with Auckland’s wild west coast.

This exclusive private tour combines three of New Zealand’s most memorable destinations in one day, designed for comfort, flexibility, and personal service. From the moment your guide greets you in Auckland, every detail is arranged so you can enjoy the journey without the rush of a large group. Travel through Waikato’s rolling hills to Hobbiton, where you join a guided group tour to explore hobbit holes, gardens, and film sites, finishing with a drink at the Green Dragon Inn. Pause for lunch before continuing to Wai O Tapu, world famous for surreal geothermal features. On a self guided walk, see the Champagne Pool and vivid green Devil’s Bath. A scenic drive through Rotorua adds Lake Rotorua, Government Gardens, and Rachel Spring, with flexible stops and stories from your guide ensuring a personal experience, with the option to finish in Auckland or be dropped off in Rotorua. Note: Private transport with your guide. Hobbiton is a guided group tour, and Wai O Tapu is self guided.

Embark on a restorative journey from Auckland to Rotorua, where culture, nature, and wellness unite. Explore Te Puia, home to the powerful Pōhutu Geyser, bubbling mud pools, and traditional Māori arts. Then, unwind at Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa with a unique, multi-sensory 7-step wellness experience blending geothermal heat, water, mud, and steam. Inspired by Ngāti Whakaue traditions, this program rejuvenates mind, body, and spirit through elements like Te Hihiri (Blessing Stone), Te Tukinga (Fire & Ice Caves), and Te Pae Paru (Mud Lounge). A truly unique and restorative Rotorua experience.

Discover the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation on this small-group day tour from Auckland. Begin your journey at Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, New Zealand’s most colorful geothermal park. Witness the dramatic eruption of the Lady Knox Geyser, explore the vibrant Champagne Pool, and marvel at bubbling mud pools and steaming craters shaped by centuries of geothermal activity. Continue to Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa for a 2-hour restorative experience inspired by Ngāti Whakaue healing traditions. Unwind in mineral-rich thermal pools, enjoy a multi-sensory journey through geothermal heat, water, mud, and steam, and emerge feeling refreshed and rebalanced — the ultimate blend of nature, culture, and wellness.

Explore the stunning Rotorua Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest and unwind at the Wai Ariki Hot Springs on this full-day small group tour. Experience the beauty of towering redwoods and geothermal wonders while learning from an expert guide. This tour offers a unique combination of outdoor adventure and relaxation, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking to rejuvenate. Enjoy a friendly group atmosphere with a maximum of 11 participants, ensuring a personalized experience throughout the day. - Full-day small group tour from Auckland, departing between 06:00 - 18:00 - Relax in the soothing Wai Ariki Hot Springs - Discover Rotorua's iconic redwoods and geothermal features - Expert local guide provides insights into the region's culture and nature

Begin your tour with a scenic ride from Auckland to Rotorua, where you'll visit the incredible Whakarewarewa – The Living Māori Village. Be welcomed by the warmth of the local Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao people and the beauty of a geothermal landscape unlike any other. Enjoy a guided tour through the village, learning how the community lives in harmony with the geothermal forces beneath their feet. Stroll along trails past bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and spouting geysers — each steeped in Māori history and mythology. After your village visit, continue your day of relaxation at Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa, where a 2-hour restorative experience inspired by Ngāti Whakaue healing traditions awaits. This one-of-a-kind, multi-sensory wellness journey blends the natural elements of geothermal heat, mineral-rich water, mud, and steam to rejuvenate the mind, soothe the body, and restore balance to the spirit.

Begin your day at the world-famous Waitomo Caves, where a guided tour takes you through spectacular limestone formations, culminating in a serene boat ride beneath a canopy of twinkling glowworms. Next, stop at the Kiwi House, where you’ll visit the dedicated kiwi-bird enclosure for a special up-close viewing of New Zealand’s iconic native bird. Please note that full entry to all Kiwi House exhibits is not included The adventure continues in the lush farmlands of Matamata at the Hobbiton Movie Set. Wander past charming hobbit holes and the Green Dragon Inn, while discovering behind-the-scenes stories from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. With small-group comfort, seamless transport, and expert guiding, this tour delivers an unforgettable blend of nature, wildlife, and fantasy — the perfect New Zealand day trip.

Embark on a captivating e-bike journey that takes you from near the world-renowned Waitomo Caves to either past the Hobitt Film Location – Hairy Feet, a magical location that served as a backdrop for scenes in the “Hobbit” film trilogy, or take a slightly longer route continuing along quiet back-country roads. Both routes culminate at the charming Fat Pigeon Cafe in the quaint village of Piopio. This ride offers an extraordinary blend of scenery alive with sounds and sights, cinematic wonders, and culinary delights. The well-maintained back-country gravel roads ensure a smooth ride, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the tranquil environment. Along the way, you might spot native birdlife and vibrant wildflowers, adding bursts of colour to the lush greenery. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, film buff, or foodie, this adventure will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper connection to the heart of Aotearoa-New Zealand.

The perfect blend of culture, geothermal wonders, and relaxation all in a single day. Most Rotorua day tours focus only on geothermal attractions, but this experience goes further by: Starting with a quirky stop in Tirau, home to the iconic corrugated iron Dog and Sheep buildings. Showcasing Rotorua’s premier geothermal site, Te Puia, where you not only see the mighty Pōhutu Geyser and bubbling mud pools but also immerse yourself in Māori arts, crafts, and cultural performances, offering a deeper cultural connection. Rejuvenation at Polynesian Spa’s Family Pools, an adults-only sanctuary that combines natural thermal waters with stunning lake views — a rare luxury inclusion that sets this tour apart. Ending with Blue Spring Experience – A rare inclusion, the Blue Spring (Te Waihou Walkway) is not on standard tour itineraries but offers a world-class freshwater attraction, pristine and serene.

Cathedral Cove Walk and Hot Water Beach, two iconic attractions on the Coromandel Peninsula, offer an unforgettable coastal experience. Cathedral Cove is famed for its stunning natural rock arch, golden sands, and turquoise waters, accessible by a scenic walk. Perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing, it’s a serene paradise. Nearby, Hot Water Beach provides a unique geothermal experience where visitors can dig their own hot pools in the sand during low tide. Surrounded by beautiful scenery, these destinations combine natural wonder and relaxation, making them must-visit spots in New Zealand.

Experience the perfect blend of nature and wine on this unique Muriwai Gannet Colony & Soljans Wine Tasting Tour. Begin on Auckland’s rugged west coast, where dramatic cliffs overlook the Tasman Sea at Muriwai. From safe viewing platforms, watch Australasian gannets soaring, nesting, and caring for their chicks (seasonal), set against black sand beaches, crashing waves, and wild coastal scenery. This rare wildlife encounter so close to the city offers unforgettable photo opportunities and insight into New Zealand’s natural environment. The tour then transitions to the peaceful Kumeu countryside at Soljans Estate Winery, a family-owned winery rich in heritage. Enjoy a guided tasting of premium local wines while learning about regional winemaking traditions. The contrast between untamed coastline and relaxing vineyard charm makes this experience truly special, showcasing two very different yet equally beautiful sides of New Zealand in one memorable journey.

Waipoua Forest - Tāne Mahuta, Te Matua Ngahere & Kauri Museum Day Tour from Auckland Discover the ancient giants of Waipoua Forest on this full-day tour from Auckland. Visit Tāne Mahuta, New Zealand’s tallest kauri tree, and Te Matua Ngahere, one of the oldest and widest living trees in the world. Explore the Kauri Museum in Matakohe, showcasing the rich history of the kauri timber and gum industries. Travel in comfort with a knowledgeable guide, with scenic stops and light refreshments along the way. A perfect blend of nature, culture, and history in one unforgettable day.