Budget North Island Adventure - 7 days
Budget North Island Adventure - 7 days
Budget North Island Adventure - 7 days
7 Days Starting and ending in Auckland, New Zealand
Visiting: Auckland, Rotorua, Taupo, Raglan
Tour operator:
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 18
Age range:
18-30
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a thrilling 7-day Budget North Island Adventure in New Zealand, starting and ending in vibrant Auckland. This small group tour takes you through the stunning landscapes of the North Island, with highlights including the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, the breathtaking Huka Falls in Taupo, and the enchanting caves of Waitomo. Enjoy the freedom to tailor your experience with optional activities like visiting Hobbiton, sailing on Lake Taupo, or surfing in the laid-back town of Raglan. Travel in style with a luxury vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi and leather seats, and stay in comfortable hostels. With an expert local guide, you'll explore iconic sites and hidden gems, making unforgettable memories along the way.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Auckland
Location: Auckland
Accommodation Name: hostel
Auckland - Hahei. You will be collected from our pick up spot in Auckland (detail in Trip Notes) before we make the beautiful drive to the Coromandel Peninsula. After making several picturesque stops along the way, we reach the coastal town of Hahei. Here, you can explore Cathedral Cove, famously known as the Gateway to Narnia. Spend the afternoon kayaking or swimming in the clear, turquoise waters, and then enjoy the sunset from the natural hot pools at Hot Water Beach.
Please Note: This tour offers a variety of optional excursions throughout the tour that can be booked and paid for locally. We will give examples of some of the optional activities available on tour, your guide can assist you with any other available options. Sightseeing and activities are generally not included on tour, this gives you the flexibility to shape your own adventure!
Day 2-3: Rotorua
Location: Rotorua
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Hahei - Rotorua. Farewell to the Coromandel as we journey to Rotorua, New Zealand's geothermal heart. On the way, we make a stop at Wai-O-Tapu, where you can see a range of geothermal features and activity in action. In Rotorua, you can enjoy luging, zorbing, white water rafting, cultural performances, or simply admire the distinctive geothermal scenery. There's a wealth of activities to choose from!
Our second day in Rotorua can be spent unwinding in the natural thermal hot springs, observing the bubbling mud pools of this unique area, or hiking the stunning volcanic crater of Mount Tarawera.
Day 4: Rotorua
Location: Taupo
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Rotorua - Taupo. Next, our journey takes us to Taupo, known as the adventure hub of the North Island. On the way, we'll visit the iconic Hobbiton, where you can opt to explore the famed movie set from The Lord of the Rings. Afterward, you'll witness the roaring Huka Falls and the area's trout-rich rivers before we relax with a sunset drink by the beautiful shores of Lake Taupo. As night falls, you can either enjoy a scenic sailing cruise on the lake or dine at one of the excellent local restaurants.
Day 5: Taupo
Location: Taupo
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Experience the magnificent lake in Taupo through thrilling jetboating, serene sailing, or even from a breathtaking 15,000 feet above. If hiking is more your style, dedicate a day to conquering Mount Tauhara or the Tongariro Crossing, renowned as one of the best one-day walks in the world. No matter what you choose, Taupo offers an abundance of exceptional options!
Day 6: Raglan
Location: Raglan
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Taupo - Raglan. We have an early start this morning to get on the road and leave the Great Lake behind as we head to Raglan. Before reaching the surf town, we’ll navigate through the underground caving town of Waitomo, where you’ll have 3.5 hours to enjoy some adventure. Whether you prefer wet or dry activities, we’ve got you covered! Your guide will be available to help you plan your time in Waitomo. Afterward, we’ll continue to Raglan and settle in for the night at a cosy, welcoming accommodation. Raglan boasts the world’s longest left-hand break, making it a great spot to enjoy your final night on tour.
Please note: There is one included group dinner on this tour. This will take place at a favourite spot of your guide, and the day on which it takes place varies by tour and guide!
Day 7: Auckland
Location: Auckland
Meals Included: Breakfast
Raglan - Auckland. Raglan is the ultimate laid-back surf town in New Zealand, famous for its world-class left-hand break. You’ll get to explore the dramatic coastal scenery, stroll along the unique black sand beach, and maybe even catch a wave or two. At around 1pm, we begin our return drive to Auckland, ensuring we make several photo stops along the way. We might even visit New Zealand's favourite ice cream spot! We expect to arrive at the airport around 4 pm, where we'll bid farewell to some of you. If you're staying in the city, we can provide a drop-off in town (detail in Trip Notes).
What's Included
-
6 breakfasts & 1 dinner
Enjoy 6 breakfasts and 1 dinner included in your tour package.
-
6 nights dorm accommodation in well-equipped hostels (mixed-sex)
Stay in mixed-sex dorm accommodation in well-equipped hostels for 6 nights.
-
Escorted by an expert local driver/guide
Travel with an expert local driver/guide who will escort you throughout the tour.
-
Transportation in a luxury vehicle
Travel in a luxury vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi, leather seats, USB chargers, air-conditioning, and a sound system perfect for road trip singalongs.
-
Exploration of Waitomo
Explore the cavernous networks of caves and tunnels in Waitomo (activities optional).
-
Huka Falls Walking Loop
Experience the Huka Falls Walking Loop as part of your tour.
-
Entry into Wai O Tapu
Gain entry into Wai O Tapu to witness its geothermal wonders.
-
Hot Water Beach
Visit the famous Hot Water Beach during your tour.
-
Tour operated in conjunction with a trusted partner
This tour is operated in conjunction with a trusted partner, and you will join travelers from different operators.
What's Not Included
-
International flights and visas
International flights and visas are not included in the tour package.
-
Tip for your tour guide/driver
Tips for your tour guide/driver are not included.
It is recommended to allow $4 - 7 USD per day per traveler. -
Optional activities and experiences
Optional activities and experiences are not included and can be booked locally.
-
Airport transfers
Airport transfers are not included in the tour package.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with transportation in a luxury vehicle featuring Wi-Fi, leather seats, USB chargers, air-conditioning, and a sound system perfect for road trip singalongs.
Accommodation
Enjoy 6 nights of dorm accommodation in well-equipped hostels with mixed-sex dorms, providing a comfortable and budget-friendly stay throughout your North Island adventure.
Age Policy
No official maximum age but these tours are aimed at the 18-30s market. Accommodation is in mixed-sex dorm rooms of up to 8 in hostels. This is a budget, backpacker-type product. Older pax should be steered towards Pure Discoveries product or Wild Kiwi's premium tours.
Check out our Q&As
-
What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides 6 nights of dorm accommodation in well-equipped hostels, which are mixed-sex.
-
What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour includes 6 breakfasts and 1 dinner.
-
What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
Transportation is provided in a luxury vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi, leather seats, USB chargers, air-conditioning, and a sound system suitable for road trip singalongs.
-
Is there a guide provided during the tour?
Yes, the tour is escorted by an expert local driver/guide.
-
Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, there are various optional activities available throughout the tour, such as kayaking, swimming, luging, zorbing, white water rafting, cultural performances, and more. These can be booked and paid for locally.
-
What is the age policy for this tour?
There is no official maximum age, but the tours are aimed at the 18-30s market. Accommodation is in mixed-sex dorm rooms of up to 8 in hostels, and it is a budget, backpacker-type product.
-
What is the policy on tipping the tour guide or driver?
Tipping the tour guide or driver is an entirely personal gesture, but it is recommended to allow $4 - 7 USD per day per traveller.
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
-
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
Reviews of this operator
Save on this tour
Request your exclusive discount code now and unlock savings for your next adventure!
Send me one now.1 Select your preferred date
2024 Jan
2025 Feb
2025 Mar
2025 Apr
2025 May
2025 Jun
2025 Jul
2025 Aug
2025 Sep
2025 Oct
2025 Nov
2025 Dec
2025 Jan
2026 Feb
2026
Saturday - Friday
Dec 28, 2024 - Jan 03, 2025Saturday - Friday
Jan 04, 2025 - Jan 10, 2025Saturday - Friday
Jan 11, 2025 - Jan 17, 2025Saturday - Friday
Jan 18, 2025 - Jan 24, 2025Saturday - Friday
Jan 25, 2025 - Jan 31, 2025Saturday - Friday
Feb 01, 2025 - Feb 07, 2025Saturday - Friday
Feb 08, 2025 - Feb 14, 2025Saturday - Friday
Feb 15, 2025 - Feb 21, 2025Saturday - Friday
Feb 22, 2025 - Feb 28, 2025Saturday - Friday
Mar 01, 2025 - Mar 07, 2025Saturday - Friday
Mar 08, 2025 - Mar 14, 2025Saturday - Friday
Mar 15, 2025 - Mar 21, 2025Saturday - Friday
Mar 22, 2025 - Mar 28, 2025Saturday - Friday
Mar 29, 2025 - Apr 04, 2025Saturday - Friday
Apr 05, 2025 - Apr 11, 2025Saturday - Friday
Apr 12, 2025 - Apr 18, 2025Saturday - Friday
Apr 19, 2025 - Apr 25, 2025Saturday - Friday
Apr 26, 2025 - May 02, 2025Saturday - Friday
May 03, 2025 - May 09, 2025Saturday - Friday
May 10, 2025 - May 16, 2025Saturday - Friday
May 17, 2025 - May 23, 2025Saturday - Friday
May 24, 2025 - May 30, 2025Saturday - Friday
May 31, 2025 - Jun 06, 2025Saturday - Friday
Jun 07, 2025 - Jun 13, 2025Saturday - Friday
Jun 14, 2025 - Jun 20, 2025Saturday - Friday
Jun 21, 2025 - Jun 27, 2025Saturday - Friday
Jun 28, 2025 - Jul 04, 2025Saturday - Friday
Jul 05, 2025 - Jul 11, 2025Saturday - Friday
Jul 12, 2025 - Jul 18, 2025Saturday - Friday
Jul 19, 2025 - Jul 25, 2025Saturday - Friday
Jul 26, 2025 - Aug 01, 2025Saturday - Friday
Aug 02, 2025 - Aug 08, 2025Saturday - Friday
Aug 09, 2025 - Aug 15, 2025Saturday - Friday
Aug 16, 2025 - Aug 22, 2025Saturday - Friday
Aug 23, 2025 - Aug 29, 2025Saturday - Friday
Aug 30, 2025 - Sep 05, 2025Saturday - Friday
Sep 06, 2025 - Sep 12, 2025Saturday - Friday
Sep 13, 2025 - Sep 19, 2025Saturday - Friday
Sep 20, 2025 - Sep 26, 2025Saturday - Friday
Sep 27, 2025 - Oct 03, 2025Saturday - Friday
Oct 04, 2025 - Oct 10, 2025Saturday - Friday
Oct 11, 2025 - Oct 17, 2025Saturday - Friday
Oct 18, 2025 - Oct 24, 2025Saturday - Friday
Oct 25, 2025 - Oct 31, 2025Saturday - Friday
Nov 01, 2025 - Nov 07, 2025Saturday - Friday
Nov 08, 2025 - Nov 14, 2025Saturday - Friday
Nov 15, 2025 - Nov 21, 2025Saturday - Friday
Nov 22, 2025 - Nov 28, 2025Saturday - Friday
Nov 29, 2025 - Dec 05, 2025Saturday - Friday
Dec 06, 2025 - Dec 12, 2025Saturday - Friday
Dec 13, 2025 - Dec 19, 2025Saturday - Friday
Dec 20, 2025 - Dec 26, 2025Saturday - Friday
Dec 27, 2025 - Jan 02, 2026Saturday - Friday
Jan 03, 2026 - Jan 09, 2026Saturday - Friday
Jan 10, 2026 - Jan 16, 2026Saturday - Friday
Jan 17, 2026 - Jan 23, 2026Saturday - Friday
Jan 24, 2026 - Jan 30, 2026Saturday - Friday
Jan 31, 2026 - Feb 06, 2026Saturday - Friday
Feb 07, 2026 - Feb 13, 2026Saturday - Friday
Feb 14, 2026 - Feb 20, 2026Saturday - Friday
Feb 21, 2026 - Feb 27, 2026Saturday - Friday
Feb 28, 2026 - Mar 06, 2026Book with Confidence
-
Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Enquire for huge savings
Rated 5* on Trust Pilot & ABTA Protected.