All North Island Tours & Excursions in 2026

Many travelers are interested in New Zealand’s Māori culture but don’t know how to enjoy an authentic experience. Learn more about Māori culture on this combo tour combining a guided tour of a geothermal valley in Rotorua with a performance in a traditional meeting house. Listen to your guide’s stories as you walk between steaming geysers and bubbling mud pools, and be amazed by the haka war dance.

Make the most of a travel day with a handy small-group transfer from Rotorua to Auckland. You don’t just travel directly between the cities: stop en route for sightseeing at Lake Taupō and Huka Falls, geothermal Wai-o-Tapu, and the popular Hamilton Gardens. Avoid the hassle of self-driving or the limitations of long-distance coach transfers, which don’t include sightseeing stops. Admission tickets for attractions on the itinerary are included.

While many travelers come to Cathedral Cove to relax on the beach, this is a marine reserve so there’s so much to see beneath the surface of the ocean. Take a look on a glass bottomed boat ride, and jump in with a snorkel if you want to get up close to the fish. Learn all about the history of this important area while relaxing and enjoying the views of the rock formations and pinnacles.

Make the most of your day in Napier - hop on one of our E-bikes and start exploring! Discover the beauty of Hawke’s Bay on a comfortable step-through E-bike—easy to ride all day long. The region’s cycle trails are renowned for their relaxed, scenic routes that link award-winning wineries and top local eateries. Along the way, take in stunning coastal views, peaceful wetlands, Māori heritage sites, lush vineyards and orchards, the historic Ahuriri village, and iconic Art Deco architecture. Our friendly team will set you up with your e-bike and all the info you need for a memorable adventure. Start your Hawke’s Bay journey with Napier City Bike Hire & Tours! Cruise ship passengers info: All passengers are transported on free shuttle buses from Napier Port to the Napier iSite Visitor Information Centre. Our store is located directly across the street from the Visitors Centre. We open outside our normal hours to match your ship's docking time - so you can make most of your visit!

Experience New Zealand’s bird life in the early evening on a guided 2.5-hour tour of Zealandia, a wildlife sanctuary located on Wellington’s outskirts. This after-hours tour takes place during the most active period for many resident animals, when they transition from daytime to nighttime activity. The tour also includes general Zealandia admission on the day of the tour or the following day, for further daytime exploration.

Take in Tauranga and Mount Maunganui’s scenic views on this 2-hour city sightseeing coach tour. Enjoy a scenic drive around the city, driving over the Harbour Bridge and checking out tourist hotspots like the Elms Mission House and Old Post Office, before heading to the Minden Lookout to snap photos of the Coromandel and White Island.

Explore Auckland’s mighty volcanoes and learn about New Zealand’s rich geology on this morning tour to places you might otherwise miss. Hike on Mt. Wellington, Mangere Mountain, One Tree Hill, and Mt. Eden with a guide. Admire panoramic views of the city and sea from high up. Look out for native animals and plants while you get some exercise in the city.

Cruise ship passengers who want an active adventure while on land will love this white-water rafting expedition from Napier. The rapids are an easy class II, so even first-timers and older kids can join in. Admire the views of the native bush, listen to birdsong, and even go for a swim in the gentle river if you like. Photos of your trip will be provided after.

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.

Treat yourself to a therapeutic mud bath and sulfur spa package at Hells Gate Geothermal Park. Located in one of Rotorua’s most active geothermal zones, Hells Gate features mud bath treatments that leave your body rejuvenated and skin smooth. You also have the option to cool off with a dip in waterfall pools after your treatment.

The Lord of the Rings movie trilogy was filmed all over New Zealand, so it can be tough to know how best to explore the sights local to where you’re staying. On this full-day small-group tour, head to filming locations seen in the movies, explore the Weta Cave mini museum, visit the movie theatre that premiered Return of the King, and much more.

Explore the enchanting Waiheke Island with a private tour from Auckland, beginning with a scenic 45-minute ferry ride across the Hauraki Gulf. Upon arrival, your personal driver-guide will lead you through stunning coastal roads, offering insights into the island's rich history and breathtaking views. Experience the thrill of soaring above vineyards on three exhilarating ziplines before embarking on a guided walk through ancient native forests. Your afternoon is customizable, allowing visits to two vineyards of your choice for tastings and leisurely lunches (at your own expenses) amidst picturesque settings. - Thrilling zipline adventure over vineyards and forests - Personalized visits to two vineyards of your choice - Guided highlights tour showcasing Waiheke's beauty and heritage

Working within the Cruise Ship schedule, we shall meet you at the Port of Tauranga and look to commence our journey at a pre-arranged time. As we embark on the journey along the Mount Maunganui Coast we shall visit a Kiwifruit Orchard on the way to Rotorua. With official stop at the renowned Redwood Forest. It is here that you shall embark on the canopy tree walk which really is a step into paradise with Californian Redwoods and some of our local fauna. The second stop shall be at one of the longest running tourist destinations in the region. Whakarewarewa boasts thermal activity, mud pools and the largest Geyser in the Southern Hemisphere. A guided tour and cultural performance is included and followed by a light lunch cooked in traditional Maori fashion. Specializing in small group tours in Mercedes vehicles or similar. We provide refreshments and snacks plus Wi-Fi throughout your journey with us. This is a family friendly day tour of approximately 6.5 hours duration.

Take in the scenery of Lake Taupo during this half-day kayaking tour from Taupo. After a brief paddling lesson, set out in your kayak from Jerusalem Bay. Follow your guide along the shoreline of New Zealand’s largest lake to rock cliffs where you can see Maori carvings. Stop at a scenic spot for snacks and an optional swim on a tour that is suitable for all levels of experience.

Built on hilly terrain, Wellington has many viewpoints from where you can take in the city views and natural vistas. On this half-day small-group shore excursion, explore the city while heading to three different viewpoints, along the way learning about the city’s filming heritage, local history, and political significance. Visit the special-effects Weta Cave with included entrance, ride the Wellington Cable Car, and enjoy hotel pickup for added convenience.

Embark on a 4.5 hour Cruise and Island tour in the scenic Bay of Islands, where nature's wonders and cultural exploration await. Cruising through the islands, keeping an eye out for marine wildlife and native seabirds while our knowledgeable guides offer insights into the history, ecology, and Maori culture. Stopping at Roberton Island, a pristine paradise surrounded by crystal-clear waters and lush greenery. Take a short walk to the lookout point over the twin lagoons to enjoy the panoramic views of the Bay. Visit the famous "Hole in the Rock," a breathtaking natural formation showcasing the Bay's unique geology and the Cape Brett Lighthouse Our second island stop provides the opportunity to explore secluded bays, make use of the snorkelling gear provided, have a swim or simply relax. Bring a picnic or contact Island Getaway directly to pre-order a packed lunch The perfect blend of adventure, relaxation and cultural discovery, making it a must-do experience in the Bay of Islands!

See the central North Island from an angle that many travelers miss as you soar above the otherworldly volcanic landscapes of Mt. Tarawera on a seaplane flight from Rotorua. Your pilot–guide navigates over the Steaming Cliffs and Waimangu Volcanic Valley, then returns via the Blue and Green Lakes and the bubbling geysers of Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve. Experience the thrill of a water take-off and landing on Lake Rotorua.

Experience the best of the Waitomo Caves with this combined tour of the Glowworm and Ruakuri Caves. Learn about the caves' remarkable geology while taking a boat tour and two walking tours through underground caverns. Be amazed by thousands of sparkling glowworms, jagged stalactites and stalagmites, the acoustics in the vast Cathedral Cave, and underground rivers. This full-day tour includes transfers from central Auckland for convenience.

Head to the Milky Way Glowworm Cave to learn facts about the luminous worms’ lifecycle that most guidebooks miss on this guided tour. Descend into the dark depths of the cave with your handheld flashlight and see the cave’s craggy ceiling lit up as bright as the sky at night. A longer premium tour option offers more time and information for photography enthusiasts.

Take a break from sightseeing and enjoy a couple of hours on the water. On board a charter yacht, the Kindred Spirit, sail on Lake Taupo, admiring the mountain views. Sail to the Maori Rock Carvings, which can only be seen from the water. Depending on the weather, you can cool off with a swim or simply sit on the deck and relax with a blanket to keep you warm.

Explore the Bay of Islands’ rocky islets and pristine beaches on a 3-day tour from Auckland. This comprehensive tour through Northland includes a visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds to discover Maori history; a drive along Ninety Mile Beach to Cape Reinga, the northernmost point of New Zealand; a boat cruise through the Cape Brett Hole in the Rock; and a sightseeing tour of historic Russell. Enjoy two nights’ overnight accommodation before returning by coach to Auckland.

Discover the magic of Middle-earth with a small group tour from Hamilton to the Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Start your adventure with stunning views of the Waikato region before delving into the enchanting underground world of Waitomo, where bioluminescent glowworms illuminate the caves. After a guided tour, enjoy a visit to the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set, exploring charming hobbit holes and vibrant gardens. Complete your day with a complimentary beverage at the Green Dragon Inn, all while enjoying personalized insights from expert guides. - Full-day small group tour with a maximum of 16 participants - Guided tours of both Hobbiton and Waitomo Glowworm Caves - Scenic drive through the picturesque Waikato region - Includes a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon Inn

Instead of trying to fit in as many sights as possible into a single day, relax and enjoy some of the North Island’s most popular attractions at a leisurely pace on this 2-day small-group tour. Discover how the Lord of the Rings movies were made at the Hobbiton Movie Set, gaze up at the mystical bioluminescent worms in the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, witness geothermal wonders near Rotorua, and much more.

Travel around Rotorua with a guide who is passionate about its geothermal wonders and Māori culture. This small-group tour from Auckland saves you driving in an unfamiliar place and means you can admire the views of the Waikato countryside rather than watch the road. Enjoy a traditional hangi buffet lunch, check out Pōhutu Geyser, and watch a haka performance at Te Puia. Hotel pickup is included for your convenience.