Luxury New Zealand North Island Walk, Bike & Kayak (Auckland to Hawke’s Bay) 8D7N, Fully Guided

Walking: Level 1, Approx. 5 km (3 miles), Elevation gain: minimal

Meet your tour leaders at 9 a.m. at the Hilton Auckland. Please arrive dressed in your hiking clothes and bring your luggage, daypack with your rain gear and any other things required for the day's journey. (Your luggage will be transferred to our first night’s accommodation)

From our rendezvous point, we take a scenic shuttle to Coromandel Peninsula where you’ll get acquainted with your guides over a delicious lunch. Today’s interesting hike begins in this wonderful area where we get to visit the part of the local forest only accessed by few people. From there, we take a short ride to Broken Hills Recreation Area. Hike through effervescent creek and tranquil farmland to the arms of a concealed valley and Amazonian Forest that has remained the same over millions of years. Get educated on the history of New Zealand's flora and fauna by the guide as you take a scenic stroll past giant tree ferns, hanging vines and swirling clear-water swimming holes.

We shuttle to the glorious Puka Park Resort which is our abode for the night. A secluded luxury lodge set amidst 25 acres of native bush that offers the perfect getaway. Get comfortable in your various chalets housed in the deep part of a forest canopy. In the evening, we gather to enjoy a sumptuous dinner at the award-winning Miha restaurant whose menu includes dishes with Pacific Rim flavour and modern European twist inspired by fresh fish and produce.

Walking: Level 1, Approx. 5 km (3 miles), Elevation gain: 122 m (400 ft)

Kayaking on Mercury Bay (half day)

Today, we move to see more of the wonderful Coromandel Peninsula. We stop at Hahei Beach and gear up for a splendid kayaking adventure which will leave you utterly astonished. Paddle along the beach through the Mercury Bay which offers a majestic view of rocky white cliffs topped with old growth pohutukawa trees. Kayak in the splendour of the jaw-dropping Cathedral Cove and admire the calm sprawled seascape surrounded by beautiful monoliths and striking cliffs.

Marvel in the work of nature as you admire the view of remarkable sculptures formed from eroded pale coral-colored sand stones. Take a refreshing dip in the bright-blue shallow water. Once on dry land, we head to the Mercury Bay Estate Winery where we enjoy lunch of local delicacies gotten from the region’s finest produce before shuttling back to Pauanui. At Pauanui, you can take a scenic stroll on the beach or take up the challenge of hiking to the Pauanui peak which offers splendid scenery or spend the day relaxing in the hotel by indulging in a soothing muscle massage at the spa or swimming in the pool.

We return to our wonderful lodge for the night. For dinner, savour the excellent cuisine at the hotel's state of the art dining room which offers an attractive view of the surrounding forest

TWO HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 5 km (3 miles), Elevation gain: 31 m (100 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 8 km (5 miles), Elevation gain: 275 m (900 ft)

We embark on a scenic shuttle down south to the renowned Karangahake Gorge, a historically rich gold-mining area active for more than 75 years until 1952 that lies between the Coromandel and Kaimai ranges and a suspension bridge over the Ohinemuri River. Be welcomed into a thick rainforest surrounded by high leafy tree fern. With the sheer, bush-clad rock walls of the gorge, the rising and falling river, and then the relics of gold mines and mining equipment to add flavour, this is one of the greatest places to hike.

Going over a suspension bridge, make your way to the entrance of a 91 m (300 ft) long mining tunnel which you navigate in darkness with the help of your tour leaders. We have our lunch at the picturesque river spot completed by a series of waterfalls the tunnel opens to.

After lunch, we explore the large expanse of the gorge surrounded by sharp, vertical cliff walls reverberating with the sound of rushing water. We head back to the van and admire the amazing passing scenery which should remind us of “The Shire” from The Lord of the Rings movie as we journey to the thermal region of Rotorua where we take in the beautiful scenery of steaming lakes, boiling mud pools and soothing naturally heated baths.

From here, we head out home for the night – the majestic Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel and Spa. A 5-star resort perfectly positioned on the edge of Lake Rotorua. This beautiful land includes rose gardens, sweeping lawns, swimming pool, sauna, secret grotto, Sandy beach, exquisite rooms, and designer lounges. In the evening, we come together to enjoy a delicious meal at the hotel’s exquisite dining room overlooking the peaceful bay.

TWO BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 27 km (17 miles), Elevation gain: 305 m (1000 ft)
Level 2, Approx. 34 km (21 miles), Elevation gain: 366 m (1200 ft)

The Rotorua terrain lies over a volcanic fault line, giving birth to a dazzling landscape that seems to bubble, steam and vent at every turn. You will have the chance to see this wonder of nature up close. After a brief shuttle from the hotel to Taupo, the tour leaders will fit your bikes and give a brief talk on biking safety and techniques.

Pedal on tranquil road through grassland, along the steep white cliffs of the Paeroa Range to the Waikite hot pools, a well-known local swimming spot. The water is naturally heated from within the Earth and will make a good place to relax from riding. Have lunch at the pool and from there carry on to Hilton Lake Taupo.

Optionally, you can free-fall off the North Island tallest bungee-jumping platform which is more than 49 metres high. For those who want to try out a less exhilarating experience, you can try out the free-fall swing across the gorge. (Not included in the trip price)

We end the day at the chic and spacious Hilton Lake Taupo, a 5-star hotel located uphill from New Zealand’s largest lake, Lake Taupo offering breathtaking views of the lake. This evening, we dine in the hotel’s main restaurant offering seasonal a la carte dinner.

Walking: Level 1, Approx. 5 km (3 miles), Elevation gain: 92 m (300 ft)

Rafting on the Tongariro River (half day)

We embark on a scenic early morning shuttle to Turangi at the south end of Lake Taupo. Admire the surrounding forest and get a sight of brown trout (salmonid fish) in the river's spotless waters as you shoot the rapids of the Tongariro River on this exciting whitewater cruise.

We carry on to the awe-inspiring Tongariro National Park after lunch. Explore Lake Rotopounamu which is a beautiful and ostracized lake in the centre of the park. Wonder at the stunning colour of the water on a sunny day which is why the lake is called Rotopounamu (greenstone lake).

Head back to the prestigious Hilton lake hotel and spend the afternoon as you please. You can read a book while relaxing in the comfort of your room, swim in the mineral rich water of the pool, and enjoy the breathless sauna. Dinner is on your own. You can choose to dine at the hotel’s posh restaurant or go into town and visit one of the unbeatable local restaurants.

TWO BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 13 km (8 miles), Elevation gain: 31m (10 0ft)
Level 2, Approx. 35 km (22 miles), Elevation gain: 366 m (1200 ft)
Level 2, Approx. 48 km (30 miles), Elevation gain: 488 m (1600 ft)

HIKING OPTION:
Level 1, Approx. 5 km (3 miles), Elevation gain: minimal

Enjoy a lovely breakfast, and then shuttle to the impressive Huka Falls. Huka means “great body of spray”. Appreciate the pleasant view of the river forcing its way through a narrow rock course and shoot out in a powerful surge. Take in the picturesque seascape as you take a tranquil stroll along the banks of the Waikato River, or you can spend the morning leisurely at the hotel.

After the morning hike, carry on to the renowned Hawke’s Bay wine region where you settle for a nice Kiwi-style lunch on the spacious grounds of Art Deco Valley Café. Pedal to the charming Esk Valley filled with lovely vineyards and evergreens. Hike through the steep hills or hop in the shuttle as we continue to explore the fertile land.

Going farther south, we are welcomed into large vineyards, fruit orchards and rolling fields of the Hawke’s Bay. This area is famous for producing some of the country’s finest wine, and it is also called the “Bordeaux of New Zealand” because of its amazing full-bodied roses.

You’ll stay at the elegant Mangapapa Hotel, a 5-star intimate abode with just 12 suites. Unwind at the day spa or take a refreshing dip in its serene pool before enjoying a Kiwi-style barbecue for dinner.

TWO BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 19 km (12 miles), Elevation gain: 31 m (100 ft)
Level 2, Approx. 34 km (21 miles), Elevation gain: 92 m (300 ft)

Following a sumptuous breakfast, delve deeper into the natural splendours of Hawke’s Bay. Pedal to the Pacific Ocean through splendid views of coastal vineyards and admire the Cape Kidnappers, a noticeable peninsula that forms the southern edge of the Bay.

From the Pacific Ocean, we ride along the running Tukituki River on the calm tree-lined country road into the shadow of the Te Mata Peak which is 400 m above sea level and admire the panoramic view of the region. Enjoy your lunch and wine tasting at a local winery. Spend the afternoon as you please. You can visit the village of Havelock North which has a natural, tree-lined charm and learn about its beautiful art, visit its unique restaurant, and honey centre or return to the hotel for a relaxing time by the pool.

Later in the evening, we have a farewell dinner at Mangapapa’s intimate restaurant and toast to the exciting memories of your journey. The chef goes all out serving us delectable dishes, perfect for the celebration to end a memorable adventure.

TWO HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 3 km (2 miles),  Elevation gain: 122m (400 ft)
Level 1, Approx. 5 km (3 miles),  Elevation gain: 214m (700 ft)

To cap off this wonderful experience, shuttle to the trailhead and hike along a path that passes through forests, redwood groves, and up the grassy ridgeline to the Te Mata Peak. Climb up to the top of the peak and appreciate the beautiful views it offers. Head back to the hotel for a lovely high tea lunch service before we shuttle to the Napier Airport.