New Zealand’s North Island is often associated with volcanic landscapes, dramatic mountain ranges and a rich Maori culture. However, it’s also the only place on earth where you might see hobbits; small humanoid creatures with curly brown hair on their feet. This 9 day adventure actually includes a trip to Hobbiton to see where hobbits work, rest and play. Other highlights include boating through glowworm caves, sailing through sunsets, and partying through Auckland.&nbsp;

NZ Adventure North | by Intro Travel

You will be met at the airport and taken to our hostel to settle in and refresh. Tonight you’ll meet up with the rest of your travel crew and get excited for all the adventures yet to come travelling New Zealand.&nbsp;

YMCA

Day 1: Arrive in Auckland

Today is all about getting oriented with the stunning harbour city of Auckland. After checking out the landmarks and hidden gems of New Zealand’s biggest city, we’ll see how Auckland comes alive after dark.&nbsp;

Day 2: City orientation

Leaving Auckland, we’re off to discover the best of the beautiful North Island. Our first stop is Waitomo, home to the world-famous glowworm caves. We’ll explore this surreal, subterranean landscape by boat, watching in awe as the glowworms light up the darkness in front of our eyes. Next we’re heading to Hobbiton, the real-life movie set featured in The Lord Of The Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. After strolling through the village on a guided tour, we’ll enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon Inn before departing for Rotorua.

YHA Rotorua Hotel

Day 3: Glowworm caves and Hobbiton

First on the agenda is Kerosene Creek, a naturally heated hot spring where you can laze away the morning. Then we’re off to explore the geothermal area of Wai-OTapu, after which the afternoon is free for you to try zorbing, or race your friends on the skyline luge.&nbsp;

Day 4: Explore Rotorua

This morning we’re off to see more of New Zealand’s fascinating volcanic landscapes - checking out hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and natural ‘foot spas’. This evening is a special opportunity for us to journey back to a time of powerful warriors and ancient traditions as we help prepare a feast and witness goose-bump-inducing performances at a traditional Maori village.

Day 5: Thermal pools and Maori culture

Get your cameras out as we head to Taupo, a lakefront town right in the heart of the north. Tonight we’ve got something special lined up - a sunset sail across the lake, where the scenery and the sunset are Instagram perfect.&nbsp;

YHA Finlay Jacks Hotel

Day 6: Taupo and sunset sail

This morning we’ll check out the massive Huka Falls, an awe inspiring torrent of icy water thundering down from the Waikato River. Later, we’ll take some time to relax, soaking our bodies in the mineral-rich natural hot pools.

Day 7: Waterfalls and hot springs

On arrival back in Auckland, we’ll help sort out your onward travel for your time in New Zealand. Want to visit Wellington or the Bay of Islands? We can help. Tonight we’ll get your travel companions together one last time, dressing sharp for our farewell dinner and final night out on the town.

Attic Backpackers

Day 8: Auckland

This morning your unforgettable North Island adventure comes to an end. Check out and journey home, or continue the next leg of your travels.&nbsp;

Summary

NZ Adventure North | by Intro Travel

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