This morning, our guides will meet you in the hotel lobby at 9:30 a.m. We’ll leave the calm and cool culture of Auckland and head out to experience the surrounding wilderness. As we make our way along the North Island’s east coast, we’ll stop off at the Karangahake Gorge to hike alongside a stunning river full of lush green ferns and trees. With the help of flashlights, we’ll make our way through abandoned gold mining tunnels towards our picnic destination, Dickey Flat. Once there, we’ll relax and take a refreshing dip in the swimming hole. From there, we’ll head to our hotel by Waihi Beach and settle in. If the tides are right, we can take a beautiful coastal walk over to the sand and surf of Orokawa Bay. Beyond the majestic pohutukawa trees, we might even see some dolphins or stingrays!

Tie up your boots—because today is a proper wilderness expedition. We’ll leave the beach behind and begin our hike beneath a towering canopy of trees. As we breathe in the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest, we’ll traverse several bridged river crossings and climb up to a lookout platform at the base of the thundering Wairere Falls, the highest waterfall on the North Island. We’ll stop for lunch at Te Aroha, a small town rich in cultural history. In the afternoon, we’ll check out the Mokena Hou geyser, the only hot soda water geyser on Earth. We’ll also find out the startling history of the mineral water in the area and how perceptions have shifted over the years. Once we’re ready, we’ll travel to Cambridge for an evening kayak out on Lake Karapiro. As the sun slowly sets, we'll paddle up the Pokaiwhenua Stream and through steep canyon walls covered with lush native ferns. Once darkness descends, our return journey will be illuminated by glowworms on either side of the valley and reflected off the water as we float downstream.

The Maungatautari Sanctuary Mountain wildlife reserve has protected New Zealand’s most endangered species for more than 100 years. This ancient rainforest is the only home to many native plants and animals and is rich in diversity. We’ll learn about conservation by exploring this gigantic 3400 hectares, predator-proof sanctuary. During our special guided tour we will see first-hand the work being done to continue protecting these fragile ecosystems. Along the way we’ll try to spot the giant native long-finned eels and other spectacular creatures.

Today, it’s pick your own adventure! Your first option for today is a whitewater rafting trip down the Kaituna River. Professional rafting guides will navigate the twists and turns of the jungle canyon, down 14 exhilarating rapids and waterfalls. Your second option is to hit the trails on a mountain bike through the Whakarewarewa Redwoods forest. The forest boasts 130 km of trails that range in difficulty from beginner to advanced. After a full, adrenaline-filled day, unwind and spend some time strolling around Rotorua before gathering back for a delicious dinner cooked by your talented guides.

Rotorua is the geothermal capital of New Zealand—so be prepared for the strong sulfur smell. Today, we’re off to take in the stunning colors and steaming lakes of both Waimangu. Our first stop is a hike to Frying Pan Lake, the world's largest hot spring with a temperature of up to 140°F. Originally created in the aftermath of a volcanic explosion, it now continuously boils and steams like a massive cooking pan. Then, pending its reopening (see note below), we visit Wai-o-tapu to witness the geothermal bubbling mud pools, brightly colored sulphuric rocks, and spouting geysers. No matter what, we’ll experience the area’s hot springs and other geothermal features before taking a break for lunch. Afterward, we’ll continue to Taupo, a charming lakeside village along the shores of Lake Taupo, offering views of the snow-capped mountains of the central plateau. We'll stop to follow a track along New Zealand’s longest river, the Waikato, for a spectacular view of Huka Falls, before settling into our new spot for the next two nights.

Today is yours to rest, relax, adventure, or whatever strikes your fancy! For the adrenaline junky, there’s bungy jumping, jet skiing, and more. Those looking for adventure will find mountain biking, trout fishing, and scenic cruise options. The water lovers will be right at home with both Lake Taupo and the Waikato River to explore. A calm and welcoming atmosphere abounds in this lively artistic town on the shores of New Zealand’s largest lake—perhaps simply grab a book or sketchpad and quietly soak it all in.

Today we’ll gather back together and travel around Lake Taupo to the central plateau, home to the North Island’s high mountains. Deep in the forest below lies Lake Rotopounamu, a hidden gem. This natural wonder has six streams flowing into it, yet none flowing out. The water escapes through a subterranean sinkhole, creating a gentle whirlpool effect in the lake. Many come to the area for the spiritual healing properties they believe the lake offers. We’ll get a chance to take a swim and feel for ourselves the effects of the world’s largest water vortex. After our hike and swim, we’ll settle into Turangi, a quaint fishing town alongside the Tongariro River. Enjoy a riverside stroll or try casting a line in.

We’ll spend the day taking in the spectacular scenery of Tongariro National Park by foot. With wide open arid volcanic landscapes, dramatic volcanic peaks, waterfalls, and clear flowing waters, it’s no wonder this is a World Heritage site. We’ll cross streams and gorges on our way to Taranaki Falls, where the water cascades 20 meters over a 15,000-year-old lava flow to crash into the pool below. Hikers looking for more of a challenge can continue onto the Tama Lakes, past two active volcanoes. After a full and invigorating day of hiking, you’ll have definitely earned yourself some relaxation in the local hot pools this evening.

This morning we’re headed to the magical Waitomo Caves for a morning of caving. Once properly outfitted with wetsuits, helmets, and headlamps, we’ll get into our rubber tubes and float along with the subterranean flow. Slide down underground waterfalls and switch off your headlamp to experience the light of the glowworms that live on the limestone cave walls. For those who prefer to stay dry, follow the spiral entrance to the Ruakuri Cave to see the stunning glowworms and hear the rumbling of distant waterfalls. Later, after a shower and some hot soup, we'll go north to the surf town of Raglan. Once settled in, we’ll have time for a walk along the pristine black sand coastline, or to do as the locals do and dig up some cockles for a laid-back, beach-front dinner.

Rise early for one last beach stroll before a final hearty breakfast. Transfer to the Auckland airport to depart for home or extend your stay on the North Island.