All North Island Tours & Excursions in 2026

Auckland’s North Shore suburbs of Devonport and Takapuna offer volcanic landscapes and secret coastal spots with Māori heritage, but it can be a hassle to get there on public transportation. On this afternoon minivan tour from Auckland, admire Pupuke explosion crater lake, explore North Head Volcano tunnels, and enjoy Auckland city skyline views. Hotel or port transfers are included for convenience.

Learn about Maori culture and see boiling mud pools, geysers, and hot springs by visiting Whakarewarewa Village in Rotorua. To save time waiting in ticket lines, prebooking your admission means you can select an entry slot to suit your travel plans. Then, once inside, join a Maori guide to learn about Maori traditions—including a chance to try food cooked in geothermal pools.

Discover the Bay of Islands by helicopter, with an optional landing at the Hole in the Rock. See Cape Brett from above during an aerial tour from Paihia, narrated by a professional pilot. Fly over Russell and Waitangi en route to the Hole in the Rock. Upgrade to land atop the iconic natural landmark, with an optional walk led by a Maori guide.

This tour combines two of New Zealand’s most iconic highlights in one unforgettable day. Depart from Auckland and enjoy a scenic drive through the Waikato countryside as your guide sets the scene for the experiences ahead. Visit Te Puia in Rotorua — where nature, culture, and tradition come together. Discover the mighty Pōhutu Geyser, bubbling mud pools, and Māori carving and weaving demonstrations. See New Zealand’s national bird at the Kiwi Conservation Centre, and enjoy a powerful Māori cultural performance showcasing the songs, dances, and stories of Aotearoa. Continue to the world-famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where you’ll venture underground to marvel at limestone formations and take a serene boat ride through the Glowworm Grotto — illuminated by thousands of tiny lights that sparkle like a starry night. Together, Te Puia and Waitomo capture the best of New Zealand’s natural wonders and cultural heritage in one inspiring day.

Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the coast of Cathedral Cove in a comfortable boat with plenty of shade—ideal on a hot summer’s day. Learn about the biodiversity of the marine reserve from your guide while admiring the caves, cliffs, arches, and rock formations. Depart from Whitianga Wharf in the morning or afternoon. This tour does not include snorkeling.

Take time to do the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, considered one of the best day hikes in New Zealand, with the convenience of round-trip transfers from Turangi. Plan to spend between five to eight hours on this self-guided hike, depending on your fitness level and pace. Your driver provides commentary during the transfers, and the package includes use of walking poles, a Māori cultural experience, and a cold drink.

Get active while experiencing the best of the Hawke’s Bay countryside on a self-guided e-bike tour that's ideal for cruise ship passengers stopping in Napier. Riding an e-bike helps you cover more miles using less energy, while this self-guided option lets you explore at your own pace. Choose between two routes of different lengths; whichever trail you take, you’re guaranteed stunning ocean and vineyard views as you pedal.

SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s is one of Auckland’s must-visit family attractions, home to over 1,500 marine creatures and a range of exciting interactive experiences. Explore themed zones featuring sharks, rays, penguins, turtles, jellyfish, seahorses, starfish and hundreds of colourful fish, while learning about New Zealand’s unique marine environment. Families and children will love walking through the famous Shark Tunnel, meeting penguins at Antarctic Ice Adventure, getting hands-on at the Sea Cave Adventure and touch experiences, creating virtual sea creatures in the interactive Art Aquarium, and discovering fascinating marine life in the World of Jellyfish and Seahorse Kingdom. Younger visitors can also enjoy the indoor Shipwreck Shores playground and splash table.

One tour to rule them all...... You'll get to check out the filming locations of the magical Lord of the Rings trilogy & you also get to wander around the beautiful city. All hosted by expert guides! Including but not limited to the Outer Shire, Helm’s Deep, Minas Tirith, Isengard & Rivendell. We'll recreate some iconic scenes & enjoy some stunning scenery whilst we go! Your tour includes the 90-minute Weta Cave experience where you'll be taken behind the scenes of Weta Workshop.

Escape the city and explore Auckland’s stunning West Coast on this scenic tour. Visit Piha Beach, famous for its dramatic black-sand shoreline, rugged cliffs, and powerful surf, where you can relax, take photos, or simply enjoy the wild coastal scenery. Next, discover Kitekite Falls, a hidden gem nestled in native rainforest, with a short walk leading to a peaceful cascading waterfall. The tour concludes at the Arataki Visitor Centre, the gateway to the Waitākere Ranges, offering panoramic views across Auckland and the surrounding landscapes, along with insights into Māori culture, local history, and native wildlife. Perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and first-time visitors, this small-group tour provides a relaxed pace, local knowledge, and breathtaking scenery in just a day. Scenic coastal views Iconic black-sand beaches Waterfalls & rainforest walks Local guide knowledge Comfortable transport

Skip the taxi line or car rentals on arrival at Auckland Airport with a handy shared arrival transfer to your Auckland hotel by comfortable minivan. Simply book your transport, look out for the meeting spot outside the arrivals hall, and begin your hassle-free vacation with a professional and courteous driver. Airport transfers are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week so are ready whenever you land.

Get ready for an exciting Small Group tour that takes you to Auckland's hottest and most stunning spots! Experience the breathtaking scenery of ancient volcanic craters, soak in the panoramic views of the city, and unwind on Auckland's most famous beaches. This adventure is all about discovering the best of Auckland just for you. - Pickup and Dropoff at your place - Choose between a morning or afternoon departure - Get insider tips and experience memorable local traditions - For afternoon tours, we can visit an ancient New Zealand Kauri forest instead of Devonport

Get an insider's look into the behind-the-scenes of blockbuster movies on this tour of Weta Workshop. Including shuttle transfers from Wellington's city center, simply walk to the meeting spot and let your driver and guide sort out the logistics for the day. See props, costumes and more from movies including The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, and Avatar. Perfect for movie buffs.

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.

Get a close-up view of some of New Zealand’s most beautiful marine life on this half-day dolphin-watching tour from Tauranga. As well as graceful dolphins, you’re likely to spot penguins, seals, whales, sharks, orca, and maybe even turtles. This is an ideal family activity, as the boat is small and your tour personalized. Learn about the marine environment from the crew, and also enjoy views of Mt. Maunganui and Moturiki Island.

Discover Wellington’s top attractions on this full-day guided tour, ideal for first-time visitors or anyone short on time who wants to fit a lot into a day. See outer suburbs and city highlights including the Mt. Victoria lookout, a ride on the Wellington Cable Car, and a visit to Old St. Paul's Cathedral. Choose between a guided tour of Weta Workshop Studios or the Zealandia Wildlife Sanctuary.

Late afternoons, early evenings on Waiheke are epic. A unique ambient experience with amazing afternoon and evening light. The island is at its best at this time of the day and you will avoid the busy morning rush on the island. You will experience a relaxed drive around that will include vantage points with epic views that will blow you away. Being a small group tour, we take you to places that big buss tours cant access making this a unique and intimate experience. For this tour we only partner with the best so premium tastings are the order of the day. This tour could include Mudbrick Vineyard, Cable Bay, Casita Miro, , Te Motu, Postage Stamp, Batch Winery, Tantalus Estate, Stoneridge, Ki Maha Restaurant, 372 Restaurant, Oyster Inn Restaurant. We will take you to a world class, top shelf restaurant for dinner. The location will be epic.

When your cruise ship docks in Tauranga, explore New Zealand’s natural and cultural heritage on a private shore excursion to Rotorua. Discover boiling mud pools and spurting geysers on a walk through Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve, learn about Māori customs at Te Puia Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, and spot the elusive kiwi bird at the kiwi house. Return to Tauranga in time to re-board your cruise ship.

Enjoy Auckland's wild west side on this afternoon tour. Travel to the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park and stop at Rose Hellaby House, an historic property allowing incredible views back across to the city and harbour. Next, explore iconic Piha Beach, known for its volcanic black sand, rock formations, and wild waves. Spot some surfers, take some atmospheric photos, and dip your feet in the Tasman Sea, if you dare! Your last stop will be Karekare Falls, a picturesque waterfall reached by a short walk through the native rainforest. Learn about New Zealand's unique plants from your guide, see our national emblem the silver fern, and keep your eyes open for native birds. Return to the city to be dropped at your hotel, cruise port, or another point of your choice such as the Sky Tower or waterfront. All our guides are friendly locals happy to answer your questions, and our tours are informal and conversational.

The Hole in the Rock is a must-visit attraction in the Bay of Islands, but if you don’t have all day to get there on a leisurely cruise, take a fast-boat tour for a speedy trip. Admire the views of the picturesque bay as you zoom to the rock in comfortable hydraulic seating. Look out for dolphins and the Cape Brett Lighthouse. Learn more about the area from entertaining commentary.

Discover the geothermal wonders of New Zealand's North Island on this full-day guided tour. Starting from Rotorua Central, traverse through lush forestry and farmland to reach the stunning Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. Experience the spectacular eruption of the Lady Knox geyser and explore vibrant hot springs and bubbling mud pools. Continue to Waimangu Volcanic Valley, where you’ll learn about the dramatic landscape shaped by the Mt Tarawera eruption. Enjoy a scenic boat trip on Lake Rotomahana, taking in breathtaking views of steaming cliffs and geysers. - Full-day guided tour from Rotorua Central to geothermal sites - Explore Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland and witness Lady Knox geyser - Visit Waimangu Volcanic Valley with insights into volcanic history - Scenic boat trip on Lake Rotomahana included

Explore the unique blend of Māori culture and geothermal wonders on this full-day tour from Tauranga Cruise Port. Beginning with a scenic drive through the Bay of Plenty, you'll visit a kiwifruit orchard, stop for morning tea with local treats, experience traditional geothermal cooking, enjoy a guided tour of Whakarewarewa – The Living Māori Village. Witness the spectacular Pohutu Geyser and cultural performances by local Māori guides. Capture memories of your tour with professional cultural photoshoot, before enjoying your Hāngi lunch. The journey back includes stops in Rotoura and Tauranga before returning to your ship on time guaranteed. - Full-day tour from Tauranga Cruise Port, lasting 7-8 hours - Includes transport, admissions, morning tea, lunch, and refreshments - Hands-on geothermal cooking experience with traditional lunch - Small group size with local guides with generations of experience - 100% Māori owned and operated business - Guaranteed return to ship on time

Witness the magical beauty of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves on an unforgettable journey from Auckland. Enjoy complimentary pick-up and drop-off from one of four main hotels in Auckland CBD, followed by a scenic 2.5-hour drive through South Auckland and the picturesque Waikato countryside, with photo and comfort stops along the way. Upon arrival, enjoy free time to browse the Gift Shop or purchase refreshments before beginning your one-hour guided tour through the famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Learn about the fascinating history of the caves, unique limestone formations, and the native Arachnocampa luminosa glowworms that illuminate the underground chambers. Complete your experience with a peaceful boat ride along the underground Waitomo River, gliding silently beneath thousands of shimmering glowworms. Afterwards, relax on the scenic return journey to Auckland, completing a remarkable day filled with natural beauty, underground wonders, and unforgettable New Zealand scenery.

Explore the Hauraki Gulf on this relaxing half-day kayaking tour departing from Auckland Sea Kayaks, 384 Tamaki Drive, St Heliers. Private boats and kayaks are the only ways to access Motukorea/Browns Island, one of the best-preserved volcanoes in the Auckland Volcanic Field. On arrival, hike to the summit for panoramic views and learn about the island’s history as the first home of Sir Logan Campbell and William Brown, founders of Auckland city.