Budget North Island Adventure - 7 days

Budget North Island Adventure - 7 days

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7 Days From

$1765

Budget North Island Adventure - 7 days

7 Days Starting and ending in Auckland, New Zealand

Visiting: Auckland, Rotorua, Taupo, Raglan

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 18

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-30

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours, Budget

From: $1765

NB: Prices correct on 25-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

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

  • Auckland - Start and end your journey in the largest city of New Zealand's North Island.

  • Explore the geothermal wonders and cultural experiences in Rotorua.

  • Visit the iconic Hobbiton movie set from The Lord of the Rings.

  • Witness the roaring Huka Falls and enjoy scenic hiking around Lake Taupo.

  • Explore the underground caves and tunnels in Waitomo.

  • Relax on the beach or surf at Raglan, one of New Zealand's top surfing destinations.

  • Discover the dramatic coastal scenery and unique black sand beaches in Raglan.

Itinerary

Expand All

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

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)  

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin  

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot
Norma Sullivan  

Land of the Northern Lights 5 day tour of Iceland

10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)  

On The Go Tours Sri...

05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)  

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan  

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free.  Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions.   The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too.  On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places.  I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace.  If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)  

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Simla Patel (Google Reviewer)  

This company doesn’t deserve even...

26-Nov-2024

This company doesn’t deserve even 1 star. I would not recommend this company. There are hidden fees which means the cost of the holiday ends up being very expensive. We recently came back from our trip to China where it is not customary to tip in restaurants & hotel staff. Yet we had to make a payment upfront in cash to to the guide for more than £100. The hotel service was appalling. Just think £100 from each person. The trip was suppose to be a Tour yet we had to pay for all entrance fees. We complained about the poor condition of the hotels but no one responded to our emails to date. The after sales service is non existent. Do not use this company. Far far too expensive for what you get. Not competitive at all. They messed up our booking; repeatedly asked for the same information. We spent so much time correcting their errors. Very difficult to get hold of anyone because they all work in S Africa or New Zealand. Absolute nightmare

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)  

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)  

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying.

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Prices last published on 25-Dec-2024

Book 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.

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