Top North Island Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises - page 7

Get up close to wild dolphins in their natural habitat during a half-day dolphin cruise from Tauranga. Watch from the boat or swim and snorkel alongside these playful marine mammals if you are a confident swimmer. Hear live commentary and enjoy hot drinks on board. The tour operates during summer months from November to May. Dolphin sightings are not guaranteed; if none are seen, a complimentary return trip is offered.

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.

Sample some of Waiheke Island’s finest food and drink on this handy day tour from Auckland. Catch the ferry from the central city in the morning and enjoy the scenic 45-minute ferry ride across the harbor. You’ll be met on Waiheke by your driver. Visit three wineries, each with deliciously different wines and food specialties. Wine tastings are included and you can purchase more to take home.

Discover the history, scenery and delicious food produce of Tauranga on this guided tour. Take in stunning views of the area’s natural beauty, from Mount Maunganui to the sandy beaches. Visit important historical sites and discover the area’s rich local industries including kiwifruit and avocado produce. Taste delicious, locally grown fruit and meet the people behind these world-renowned industries.

Discover the prestigious food and drink purveyors of Tauranga and Karangahake when your ship pulls into port. Sip and savor a diverse array of tastings and two award-winning wineries. This shore excursion includes pickup and drop-off by minivan.

There’s no need to choose between a trip to the black sand Piha Beach and the multi-tiered waterfalls of Kitekite Falls with this half-day small-group tour. Set out from Auckland and take in ocean and forest views as you travel through the Waitākere Ranges before stopping to stroll along the coastline and to take a bushwalk to the thundering falls.

Combine three popular nature experiences into just one trip with this full-day tour from Auckland. Gaze up at the towering tree canopy at the Redwood Forest, watch the Lady Knox Geyser shoot into the sky at the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, marvel at the vibrant crystal-clear waters of Blue Spring, and much more.

Explore beyond the beautiful beach at Cathedral Cove on an hour-long boat tour that takes you further along the coast. Cruise among the islands and rock formations of the marine reserve and look back at the volcanic landscapes along the shore. Learn more about this culturally and naturally important area through on-board commentary.

Explore the Rotorua lakes district and learn about its history on a 2-hour tour duck boat cruise from Rotorua. Travel on land and by water in the amphibious World War II vehicle, visiting four lakes including Lake Tarawera, located at the foot of Mt Tarawera. Hear about the devastating 1886 eruption of Mt Tarawera and other aspects of local history on this family-friendly tour.

Experience all that the Hobbiton Movie Set has to offer free of time pressures on this full-day tour. Learn how “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” were created, and see one of the few film sets maintained long after shooting has finished. This tour is great for both diehard fans and those who just want to enjoy a unique day out. The tour departs from Tauranga.

Make the most of your time on land in Tauranga with a full-day tour to Rotorua, stopping at scenic points of interest en route. In Rotorua, see geothermal hot pools and the Pohutu Geyser at Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, and enjoy a Māori cultural performance. Sample New Zealand kiwifruit and visit highlights including Lake Rotorua, Mt. Tarawera, and Government Gardens throughout the day.

Spend a day exploring must-see cultural highlights on this full-day small-group tour from Auckland. Explore the Shire at the renowned Hobbiton™ Movie Set: stroll through well-tended gardens, visit hobbit holes, and enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon Inn. Then, explore Te Puia Geothermal Park, with blue baths, geothermal springs, and a Māori cultural tour. This family-friendly tour includes hotel pickup and safety/booster seats for children aged 7 and younger.

Spend an evening immersed in Māori culture with a traditional hāngī dinner—food cooked in a heated pit—and live performance, held at the historically important site of the signing of New Zealand’s Treaty of Waitangi. Enact a warrior challenge on a bush walk and watch energetic Māori music and dance. Your Treaty Grounds admission ticket is valid for two days, so visit the museums and historic sites at your leisure.

Combine three of New Zealand’s most popular attractions on this 2-day tour from Auckland. Step into Middle Earth on a tour of the Hobbiton™ Movie Set from "The Lord of the Rings," explore the geothermal landscapes of Rotorua, and cruise through the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. This great-value tour includes hotel pickup, some meals, and overnight accommodation in Rotorua.

Visiting Wellington's sights on foot can be challenging as the city is so hilly, and attractions are spread out. This half-day small-group guided van tour takes you to top attractions including Lyall Bay, the Weta Cave, and the Lady Norwood Rose Garden. Enjoy a ride on the Wellington Cable Car for panoramic city views, with hotel pickup included for a seamless experience.

Experience Auckland's stunning skyline and iconic landmarks from the water on a 1.5-hour scenic cruise with The Red Boats. Glide across the picturesque Waitemata Harbour on one of or iconic wooden vessels while enjoying informative commentary about the area's history and highlights. With comfortable indoor and outdoor seating, this cruise is ideal for taking photos or simply relaxing amidst breathtaking views. A fully licensed bar is available on board for drinks and snacks, making it perfect for families, tourists, and group outings. All cruises are subject to weather and sea conditions. For your safety and comfort, itineraries may be adjusted if required.

Explore the enchanting Kawiti Glow Worm Caves on this captivating tour from Paihia. Begin your journey with a scenic 30-minute drive, enriched by local insights from your guide. Once at the caves, embark on a 45-minute easy walk led by knowledgeable local guides, marveling at the mesmerizing glow worms illuminating the cavern. Continue the adventure at Haruru Waterfalls, where the impressive roar of cascading water awaits. Conclude your tour back in Paihia, where charming shops and eateries beckon for exploration. - Scenic drive from Paihia with local history and fun facts - 45-minute guided walk through the stunning Kawiti Glow Worm Caves - Visit Haruru Waterfalls and experience its thunderous roar - Pick up from Tender wharf for 9am tours for Cruiseship passengers. - Get in touch if you have a bigger group, we can accommodate over several vans. - Would recommend bringing a warm jacket, as caves can get cold.

There’s no better way to discover the Bay of Islands than from the water, and this half-day cruise from either Paihia or Russell lets you experience island life in depth, with a long stop at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island. You’ll get the chance to look for dolphins, learn about history, ecology, and wildlife from your skipper, and see signature sights including the Hole in the Rock.

Travelers with limited time in Wellington can enjoy a half-day Lord of the Rings tour with hotel pickup and skip-the-line access. Visit Hobbiton Woods filming locations on Mt. Victoria, explore Weta Workshop's special effects exhibits, and see the theater that hosted the films' world premieres. This tour offers a convenient way to experience key filming sites and behind-the-scenes insights in the capital.

Wellington, long-celebrated for its bohemian liberal arts and cafe culture, is fast-becoming renowned as New Zealand’s capitol of craft beer. Visit four Wellington and Hutt Valley breweries, tasting a range of tasty local beers at each establishment on this small group day tour designed for lovers of ales, stouts, lagers and everything hoppy in-between.

Gain entry to the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute at Te Puia on a guided tour of this geothermal hot spot. Take a walking path up to steaming vents, boiling mud pools and erupting Pohutu Geyser at Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley; observe the emblematic kiwi bird; and discover Maori traditions at the cultural center. Upgrade to include a cultural performance of Maori song and dance, including the warlike ‘haka.’ Showtimes are available several times a day during admittance.

Start your day with an easygoing walking tour around Napier’s Art Deco Quarter. Visit some of Napier’s iconic art deco buildings and hear from your guide about the people and events that shaped them. If you’ve just arrived in Napier, this is a great opportunity to get your bearings and see a different side of the city’s distinct architecture.

Enjoy an afternoon wine tour through some of Hawkes Bay's vineyards, including New Zealand's oldest winery, Mission Estate. Visit four top wineries for tastings paired with complimentary wine, cheese, and biscuits, and stop at a local chocolatier. Travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle with hotel pickup and drop-off included for a relaxed experience. The small-group size of the tour means you get personalized attention and the chance to ask questions.

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.