Top Activities on the Ground in North Island - page 3

For fans of "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" films, visiting the official Hobbiton Movie Set is a truly unforgettable experience. On this tour, enjoy comfortable round-trip transport from Auckland without having to organize a rental vehicle. On arrival, enjoy the opportunity to explore the famous film set, have a drink at The Green Dragon Inn, and see Hobbit Holes, and the Double Arched bridge up close.

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.

Wow this is a great day out for start by travelling from your pickup point over the Wainuiomata hill. Spend a couple of hours at Rimu taka Forest park walking through native forest from this point we travel to Eastbourne stopping at the top of wainuiomata hill for a photo shoot then follow the coast line to Eastbourne having lunch at a French Restaurant in Eastbourne or stop at days bay for a kiwi meal after the meal travel on the east by west ferry to queens wharf to meet by your driver to take you back to your start point

Enjoy a cruise through Tikapa Moana, the Hauraki Gulf, and discover the Rotoroa Island sanctuary. This pretty little island is a perfect escape from the city for the day or longer. Explore the island on foot via established walking tracks across open fields, native bush and sandy shorelines. Take your chance at spotting iconic native species free ranging across the island including kiwi, takahē and tīeke. Rotoroa Island has been predator free since 2014 and is now home to a number of native birds and wildlife free ranging across the island. Discover the unique history of the island through the award-winning museum exhibition and heritage buildings or enjoy the sheltered sandy bays and clear waters for relaxing, swimming and snorkeling. Facilities on the island include a gift shop, freshwater drinking fountain, toilets and electric barbeques.

Ride the scenic Te Awa River Ride from Cambridge to Lake Karapiro, passing river viewpoints, boardwalks, and suspension bridges along the way. This relaxed Grade 1 guided bike tour is perfect for beginners, families, and anyone wanting a leisurely ride while enjoying the natural beauty of the Waikato River. Your local guide shares insights about the area while you stop at scenic picnic spots and hidden viewpoints that many riders would otherwise miss.

Explore one of New Zealand’s finest forest trails on this 7-hour hiking tour in the Whirinaki Forest from Rotorua. Travel from your accommodation in Rotorua into the Whirinaki Forest, widely considered among the world’s greatest rainforests. Follow your guide along hiking trails beneath the leafy canopy and marvel at mighty native trees such as ‘kahikatea’, ‘matai’, ‘miro’, ‘rimu’ and ‘totara’. Along the way, discover rich flora and fauna for which the forest is famous, and hear birdsong from the many different species of birds flying among the branches above.

Rotorua’s volcanic history has created a landscape of lakes, hot springs, and waterfalls. See some of the most spectacular on this half-day tour, traveling in a small group with a knowledgeable guide. Exercise your legs with a bushwalk, watch springs bubble, and learn about the natural processes that have shaped this land of fire and water.

This guided night cycle tour is an ideal way to Auckland from a different perspective. The city is lit up at night with lots of interesting installations and scenic spots to admire the illuminated skyline. E-bikes make getting around effortless, and your guide keeps you safe on cycle paths and less busy roads. A small group size means you get personalized attention and can ride at your own pace.

Discover Wellington City on an eBike. Convenient pick-up from the East by West office any time from 9:30am, with return by 3:30pm Create your own adventure: Enjoy scenic routes along the waterfront, visit the iconic Te Papa Museum (tickets not included), and take in the views at Oriental Bay, Evans Bay and Scorching Bay (up to 30km return). For those who are keen for a longer ride - discover all the above, plus take in other famous Wellington sites: Mount Victoria Lookout, Breaker Bay & Lyall Bay

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.

Outdoor rock climbing at Stonefields in Auckland offers a unique blend of safety, expertise, customization, education, and convenience through guided experiences. Professional guides provide local knowledge, ensuring safety and tailoring climbs to participants' skill levels. Access to equipment and educational insights enhance the experience, while small group settings foster camaraderie. Climbing outdoors immerses participants in natural surroundings, offering varied terrain, real-life challenges, adventure, and a sense of achievement. This authentic experience fosters community and respect for nature, while allowing for freedom, creativity, and personal growth.

Head out to the Auckland landmark of Rangitoto Island on this evening kayaking tour. After crossing the Waitemata Harbour to Rangitoto, embark on a leisurely walk to the summit to catch the sunset over Auckland and the Waitakere Ranges. You’ll then paddle back in the dark with the help of your guide, taking in the city lights along the way.

A mountain bike with knobbly tyres and a minimum of front suspension is recommended for riding the Timber Trail. At Timber Trail Shuttle & Bike Hire, you can now hire the right bike for the terrain, along with a helmet, spare tubes and other required gear. You have a choice of one of our excellent Trek Roscoe 7 Mountain Bikes or one of our Trek Powerfly 4 Hardtail E-Bikes and Trek Powerfly 4 Full Suspension E-bike. *Note you will need a shuttle to get you to the middle of the trail. Ongarue to Piropiro.

If you like to explore at full throttle, this private adrenaline experience is perfect for you, with the 350cc power of a serious bike but the stability and road-holding of a classic trike. Roar through hills and valleys from Paihia to Opua, admire the Haruru Falls and Waitangi Lookout, see the Kawakawa Public Toilets (designed by the artist and architect Hundertwasser), then return to Paihia.

Explore the stunning landscapes of River Valley on an E-bike, perfect for those seeking a leisurely yet exhilarating ride. The Laughing Moa route offers a delightful 42 km loop that winds through picturesque countryside, with sections of both gravel and sealed road. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to enjoy tranquil stretches of road and breathtaking viewpoints. There is an optional 12 km add on that takes you out to the spectacular Mokai Bridge. A packed lunch is provided to fuel your adventure, ensuring you stay energized throughout the day. Bike sizes range from S to XL, making this experience accessible for everyone looking to enjoy the beauty of New Zealand's backcountry.

Mystery Picnic, Matakana is a self-guided food and adventure experience with a difference. Each destination has been thoughtfully selected to showcase the unique food, places and attractions of the region. Not only do you find out more about your travelling companion but also what the area has to offer. Solving clues and puzzles along the way and ending at a beautiful picnic spot.

Our base in Waitomo Village, just a stone’s throw away from the iconic Waitomo Caves, serves as a gateway to extraordinary adventures. Begin your journey by indulging in a moment of relaxation, savoring a cup of coffee and refreshing cold drinks while we guide you through the bike hiring experience. Indulge your senses as you traverse lush farmlands, tracing the meandering path of babbling creeks and ambling rivers. Lose yourself in pristine forests, alive with the symphony of chirping birds and the whispers of nature. Marvel at glimpses of the Central North Island Mountains and behold valley vistas that will leave you full of wonder. With every pedal stroke, immerse yourself in the magic that we offer. Let the raw beauty of the land envelop you, igniting your spirit of exploration and leaving an indelible mark on your soul. It’s time to embrace the extraordinary, discover the unheard-of, and become a part of the exceptional experience that we offer.

Discover Wellington in your hiking shoes! On our Wellington hiking tour, we will take in sweeping rural, city, and coastal vistas, with views stretching as far as the Kaikōura Ranges, Marlborough Sounds, Wellington City and Harbour, and the Tararua and Orongorongo Ranges as you journey from south to north in the Wellington region. From start to finish, we make your experience seamless. Your local guide will handle all the logistics, lunch, water, sunscreen and a post walk ice cream – while sharing stories of New Zealand’s history, culture, and everyday life in Aotearoa. All you need to do is walk, explore, and enjoy. ©WellingtonNZ

A mountain bike with knobbly tyres and a minimum of front suspension is recommended for riding the Timber Trail. At Timber Trail Shuttle & Bike Hire, you can now hire the right bike for the terrain, along with a helmet, spare tubes and other required gear. You have a choice of one of our excellent Trek Roscoe 7 Mountain Bikes or one of our Trek Powerfly 4 Hardtail E-Bikes and Trek Powerfly 4 Full Suspension E-bike. *Note you will need a shuttle to get you to the start of the trail. Ongarue to Pureora.

Instead of slowly navigating the Karangahake Gorge on foot, on this full-day private cycle tour, hop aboard an e-bike and take in as much of the area as possible. Explore dramatic scenery, learn about Waihi's gold-mining heritage, enjoy a picnic lunch of home-baked goods, and much more.

This tour takes in all that Waiheke has to offer while also getting you off the beaten tourist trail. To truly understand our land is to understand it through the eyes of us, the indigenous people. You will be greeted by your local guide at the wharf upon your arrival. First is an orientation around Waiheke taking in stunning sea views of the Hauraki Gulf, Auckland City and the Pacific Ocean. You will visit pristine white sand beaches and hear the history and stories of the places you visit and see. You will visit the focal point of the Māori community on Waiheke, learn about the significance and importance of carving and traditional tattooing, the revitalization of Māori language and the impact of colonization on Māori people.

An unforgettable adventure from start to finish! This guided Māori cultural walking tour through a stunning Jurassic podocarp rainforest was truly one-of-a-kind. The journey began with a comfortable and fun bus ride from Rotorua, where we met our friendly Māori guides. Upon arrival, we were welcomed with a traditional Mihi Whakatau and Karakia, which set a deeply meaningful tone for the day. The rainforest itself is breathtaking—towering 1,000-year-old Totara trees, lush native plants, and the chance to spot rare birds in their natural habitat. The guides shared fascinating stories about the forest’s history, Māori traditions, and the medicinal plants known as Rakau Rongoa. We even got to experience 'Forest Bathing,' a peaceful moment of connection with nature, accompanied by beautiful Māori chants and music. The packed picnic lunch, infused with traditional flavors, was delicious, and hot Kawakawa tea was the perfect ending. A must-do for anyone visiting Rotorua!

Discover the Remutaka area’s rich rail history and natural beauty on an eBike (electric bike) day trip. The flagship of the Remutaka Cycle Trail, this trail is suitable for riders of all levels, 28 km of easy/moderate riding. Cycle through native forest, over bridges and through tunnels while enjoying views of the landscape and the old railway system. Enjoy a delicious picnic lunch at the Summit and embark on a fun descent to Cross Creek in the Wairarapa, home to some of New Zealand’s most scenic farmland. You will be provided with everything for your adventure - transport to and from your cruise ship, eBikes with trunk bags for your personal effects, and all food - so all you need to do is wear appropriate clothing and be ready to ride!

Explore New Zealand's small capital city while getting fresh air and exercise on an electric bike tour. Ride along the Wellington Waterfront and Miramar Peninsula, pedaling past beaches, urban landmarks, and residential neighborhoods with a guide leading the way and keeping you safe. Stop often to snap photos, and use the bike’s battery power to easily scale the city’s hills, for stellar views over the city and coast.