New Zealand North Island Hiking
Auckland, New Zealand to Wellington, New Zealand
Delight in the many wonders that bless the magnificent North Island of New Zealand. Begin with a wine tasting on Waiheke Island, marvel at the geothermal features of Rotorua, then walk underneath sky-high trees of the Whirinaki rainforest. Hike through lava valleys to active volcanoes in the world-famous Tongariro National Park and soak up the surreal colors of Waiotapu—a thermal wonderland! Sip coffee while you explore the waterfront harbor city of Wellington. Pair this journey with our New Zealand South Island Hiking adventure for the full New Zealand experience.
- Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, widely regarded as one of the world's best one-day treks
- Marvel at the geothermal wonders, age-old forests, and pristine lakes of Rotorua
- Take in the enchanting trees of Whirinaki, one of the world's last prehistoric rainforests!
Minimum Age: 13
- Adventure and Active
- Educational and Learning
Day: 1, duration: 2
Heritage Auckland Hotel
Occupying the landmark Farmers department store building, Heritage Auckland Hotel places you right in the center of the city. Its historic wing honors the Art Deco heritage with high ceilings and jarrah columns, while the adjacent Tower features a more contemporary design. Two gyms, an indoor lap pool and a heated outdoor pool occupy the rooftop, offering vistas of Waitemata Harbor.
Day: 3, duration: 2Rydges Rotorua
Poised by the Redwood forest and overlooking the Whakarewarewa Geothermal Reserve, Rydges Rotorua immerses you in the region's unspoiled natural beauty. Its 203 rooms are modern and comfortable, with A/C and Wi-Fi. The main draw is the year-round geothermal-heated swimming pool, as well as the Champan's restaurant, locally famous for its dishes that couple Pacific flavors with international cuisine.
Day: 5, duration: 1Millennium Hotel and Resort Manuels
Situated on the shores of New Zealand's largest lake, the Millennium Hotel & Resort is one of Taupo's top hotels. Delight in stunning views of the lake and mountains as you enjoy the artfully decorated accommodations. Its 39 boutique guest rooms are well-equipped with modern amenities including AC, complimentary Wi-Fi, in-room entertainment, laundry services, coffee and tea making facilities, and more. Savor your meal as you gaze at the lake from the onsite restaurant and bar. Then head to the heated swimming pool, private grotto plunge pool, or sauna for ultimate relaxation.
Day: 6, duration: 2Skotel Alpine Resort
The locally owned Skotel Alpine Resort is situated at the foot of Mount Ruapehu in the North Island's Tongariro National Park. It's cozy wood-paneled rooms have a ski-lodge feel and come well-appointed with modern amenities. Enjoy stunning views, excellent service, and great onsite facilities — including a gym, restaurant, and soothing hot tub!
Day: 6, duration: 2The Park Hotel Ruapehu
With stunning views of the three volcanoes, the Park Hotel makes the perfect base for your stay in the North Island's Tongariro National Park. The hotel has an adventure lodge feel with simple, comfortable rooms — complete with modern amenities. Unwind in front of the roaring log fire or relax in the hot tub after a day of exploring.
Day: 8, duration: 1Copthorne Hotel Wellington Oriental Bay
Perfect for soaking up the vibe of Wellington, Copthorne Hotel occupies a prime position overlooking the harbor. Each of the 118 modern, well-equipped rooms has a balcony with ocean views, which are also the highlight of the restaurant and cocktail bar. The city's commercial and shopping areas are just a 10-minute stroll away, as are attractions such as the Te Papa Museum.
Justin Cowen
Justin grew up on a dairy farm in the Manawatu region of the North Island. Wanderlust drew him away to work as a Department of Conservation ranger around the country, interspersed with periods of travel in Asia and South America. For over a decade, guiding has fulfilled Justin’s wandering spirit. A degree in sustainable communities coupled with an immense knowledge of New Zealand histories makes Justin a compelling person to chat to. Along the way, Justin has gained an intimate knowledge of New Zealand’s natural and cultural history. He delights in communicating this knowledge and connecting other travellers with New Zealand’s special places.
Kath Watzig
Kath originally hails from Oregon but moved to New Zealand in her early 20’s, and quickly made it her home. A very experienced outdoors person, Kath has sea kayaked and trekked all over New Zealand. She lives on a small organic farm shared with six other families, where she grows most of her own food and has recreation on her doorstep. Kath’s love of ecology and nature, and her practical outdoor ways, have seen her work range from landscaping to running a small tree nursery, and nowadays guiding to which she brings an infectious enthusiasm for all things ‘kiwi’. Any trip Kath runs is going to have a lot of laughter in it!
Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage
Exclusions
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses
Reason #01
MT Sobek has been exploring the Pacific for over 20 years, working with the best local guides for immersive and fun experiences.
Reason #02Our stellar North and South Island itineraries can be easily paired for a complete New Zealand adventure.
Reason #03We bring you the best of New Zealand, from epic hikes and great hotels, to carefully selected local food and wine — as well as unique cultural insights.
ActivitiesSeven days of moderate hiking, cultural touring, wine tasting, and scenic boat rides.
LodgingComfortable, contemporary and amenity-laden hotels and lodges, mostly located by splendid natural sites.
ClimateExpect changeable weather in New Zealand's temperate, ocean-controlled climate. Temperatures range from high 50-90°Fs from January to March.
Who will meet me on arrival?Our MT Sobek representative will meet you and you will take a group transfer to the hotel.
Do I need a visa for New Zealand?US citizens can travel to New Zealand without a visa and stay for up to 90 days. To do so, Americans must apply for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before departure. Click here for more details.
What is the Tongariro Crossing like?This is a full day's hike of over 12 miles on a well-built track. The trail is sometimes steep, sometimes rocky and uneven and at times a scree slope. This hike is only for very fit hikers, but we offer options for others.
At what altitudes will we be hiking?Maximum elevation is about 6,233' on the Tongariro crossing.
What is the minimum age for this trip?The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.
Day: 1, duration: 2
Heritage Auckland Hotel
Occupying the landmark Farmers department store building, Heritage Auckland Hotel places you right in the center of the city. Its historic wing honors the Art Deco heritage with high ceilings and jarrah columns, while the adjacent Tower features a more contemporary design. Two gyms, an indoor lap pool and a heated outdoor pool occupy the rooftop, offering vistas of Waitemata Harbor.
Day: 3, duration: 2Rydges Rotorua
Poised by the Redwood forest and overlooking the Whakarewarewa Geothermal Reserve, Rydges Rotorua immerses you in the region's unspoiled natural beauty. Its 203 rooms are modern and comfortable, with A/C and Wi-Fi. The main draw is the year-round geothermal-heated swimming pool, as well as the Champan's restaurant, locally famous for its dishes that couple Pacific flavors with international cuisine.
Day: 5, duration: 1Millennium Hotel and Resort Manuels
Situated on the shores of New Zealand's largest lake, the Millennium Hotel & Resort is one of Taupo's top hotels. Delight in stunning views of the lake and mountains as you enjoy the artfully decorated accommodations. Its 39 boutique guest rooms are well-equipped with modern amenities including AC, complimentary Wi-Fi, in-room entertainment, laundry services, coffee and tea making facilities, and more. Savor your meal as you gaze at the lake from the onsite restaurant and bar. Then head to the heated swimming pool, private grotto plunge pool, or sauna for ultimate relaxation.
Day: 6, duration: 2Skotel Alpine Resort
The locally owned Skotel Alpine Resort is situated at the foot of Mount Ruapehu in the North Island's Tongariro National Park. It's cozy wood-paneled rooms have a ski-lodge feel and come well-appointed with modern amenities. Enjoy stunning views, excellent service, and great onsite facilities — including a gym, restaurant, and soothing hot tub!
Day: 6, duration: 2The Park Hotel Ruapehu
With stunning views of the three volcanoes, the Park Hotel makes the perfect base for your stay in the North Island's Tongariro National Park. The hotel has an adventure lodge feel with simple, comfortable rooms — complete with modern amenities. Unwind in front of the roaring log fire or relax in the hot tub after a day of exploring.
Day: 8, duration: 1Copthorne Hotel Wellington Oriental Bay
Perfect for soaking up the vibe of Wellington, Copthorne Hotel occupies a prime position overlooking the harbor. Each of the 118 modern, well-equipped rooms has a balcony with ocean views, which are also the highlight of the restaurant and cocktail bar. The city's commercial and shopping areas are just a 10-minute stroll away, as are attractions such as the Te Papa Museum.
Justin Cowen
Justin grew up on a dairy farm in the Manawatu region of the North Island. Wanderlust drew him away to work as a Department of Conservation ranger around the country, interspersed with periods of travel in Asia and South America. For over a decade, guiding has fulfilled Justin’s wandering spirit. A degree in sustainable communities coupled with an immense knowledge of New Zealand histories makes Justin a compelling person to chat to. Along the way, Justin has gained an intimate knowledge of New Zealand’s natural and cultural history. He delights in communicating this knowledge and connecting other travellers with New Zealand’s special places.
Kath Watzig
Kath originally hails from Oregon but moved to New Zealand in her early 20’s, and quickly made it her home. A very experienced outdoors person, Kath has sea kayaked and trekked all over New Zealand. She lives on a small organic farm shared with six other families, where she grows most of her own food and has recreation on her doorstep. Kath’s love of ecology and nature, and her practical outdoor ways, have seen her work range from landscaping to running a small tree nursery, and nowadays guiding to which she brings an infectious enthusiasm for all things ‘kiwi’. Any trip Kath runs is going to have a lot of laughter in it!
Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage
Exclusions
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses
Reason #01
MT Sobek has been exploring the Pacific for over 20 years, working with the best local guides for immersive and fun experiences.
Reason #02Our stellar North and South Island itineraries can be easily paired for a complete New Zealand adventure.
Reason #03We bring you the best of New Zealand, from epic hikes and great hotels, to carefully selected local food and wine — as well as unique cultural insights.
ActivitiesSeven days of moderate hiking, cultural touring, wine tasting, and scenic boat rides.
LodgingComfortable, contemporary and amenity-laden hotels and lodges, mostly located by splendid natural sites.
ClimateExpect changeable weather in New Zealand's temperate, ocean-controlled climate. Temperatures range from high 50-90°Fs from January to March.
Who will meet me on arrival?Our MT Sobek representative will meet you and you will take a group transfer to the hotel.
Do I need a visa for New Zealand?US citizens can travel to New Zealand without a visa and stay for up to 90 days. To do so, Americans must apply for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before departure. Click here for more details.
What is the Tongariro Crossing like?This is a full day's hike of over 12 miles on a well-built track. The trail is sometimes steep, sometimes rocky and uneven and at times a scree slope. This hike is only for very fit hikers, but we offer options for others.
At what altitudes will we be hiking?Maximum elevation is about 6,233' on the Tongariro crossing.
What is the minimum age for this trip?The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.
About MT Sobek
To feed your spirit of adventure, Mountain Travel Sobek offers a wide range of unique and perfectly paced itineraries led by incredible local guides. We keep groups small, usually fewer than 10 people, and seek out great food and characterful accommodations everywhere we go.
Beyond the seamless logistics and careful attention to detail, our aim is to create a space for truly special moments in unforgettable places.
We are the Adventure Company—come explore with us.
About MT Sobek
To feed your spirit of adventure, Mountain Travel Sobek offers a wide range of unique and perfectly paced itineraries led by incredible local guides. We keep groups small, usually fewer than 10 people, and seek out great food and characterful accommodations everywhere we go.
Beyond the seamless logistics and careful attention to detail, our aim is to create a space for truly special moments in unforgettable places.
We are the Adventure Company—come explore with us.
