Great Walk Adventure North Itinerary

Arrive Auckland & Hike Matahuru Valley

Discover the enchanting North Island of New Zealand, a diverse sub-tropical haven beckoning exploration. Over six days, traverse varied landscapes, from geothermal plateaus to verdant rainforests and golden beaches. Commence your adventure in Auckland, where seasoned local guides await, then journey south to Waikato's undulating emerald hills. Uncover the picturesque Matahuru Valley Walk, spanning three private farms, offering an exclusive glimpse into the lush Waikato landscape. Delight in a scenic picnic amidst this breathtaking property before heading to Raglan, the nation's surf hub, for an overnight stay. Immerse yourself in the beauty and diversity of this captivating region.

Accommodation: Raglan - 1 night

Accommodation:

Raglan Sunset Motel

Raglan's only motel accommodation in the heart of the township. Rooms are tastefully designed and spacious with a cool, casual surfside feel. All ground floor rooms have an outdoor setting and upstairs rooms offer a private balcony. The motel complex features a spa pool and BBQ facilities. Guests can enjoy kite surfing, boating, surfing, kayaking and fishing on Raglan Harbor, just 10 minutes' walk away.

Explore Bridal Veil Falls Hike Pureora Forest

After a serene night, our morning begins leisurely, allowing time to wander through Raglan's vibrant cafes and sunlit shores. Journeying onward, our first stop unveils the captivating Bridal Veil Falls, a 55m cascade framed by native forest. In the afternoon, Pureora Forest beckons, inviting exploration of New Zealand's iconic flora and fauna. Following our forest adventure, we proceed to Tongariro National Park, where the next two nights will be spent at Plateau Lodge. Join us for a day of discovery, from cascading waterfalls to the heart of native forests, culminating in the tranquil setting of Tongariro National Park.

Accommodation: National Park - 2 nights

Accommodation:

Plateau Lodge

Located 15 minutes’ drive from UNESCO World Heritage listed Tongariro National Park, where you can enjoy skiing, hiking, cycling and paddling activities. A daily, shuttle service is available hourly from 6:00 until 9:00 to the Tongariro Crossing & National Park. Free parking is available and most rooms include Smart TVs with the option of a fully equipped kitchen. Plateau Lodge offers a guest laundry, breakfast trays and lunch packs. Our tour desk can recommend local attractions and help guests with travel arrangements.

Tongariro National Park The Tongariro Crossing

Today we’ll experience our first New Zealand Great Walk of the trip and a trail widely renowned as the best day hike in the world – The Tongariro Alpine Crossing! Tongariro is New Zealand’s oldest National Park and boasts dual World Heritage status, acknowledged for both its cultural and environmental significance.

Starting with a healthy breakfast to fuel our adventure we’ll meet our local guides who’ll take us on a journey across this moon-like landscape. With an abundance of local knowledge and expertise, you’ll laugh, learn, and be left in awe as we explore this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Whanganui National Park: The Whanganui River Journey

Today we’ll enjoy one of the most uniquely New Zealand experiences of the trip and our second New Zealand Great Walk – the Whanganui River Journey. Unlike all our other Great Walks this journey takes us out on the water.

After a picnic lunch at a remote wilderness lodge deep in Whanganui National Park, we’ll hop in a jetboat for an exhilarating ride down the Whanganui River. From there we’ll explore this magical area on foot and discover one of the North Island’s best-kept secrets – the Bridge to Nowhere! Immersed in lush native rainforest you’ll be awestruck as this iconic bridge seemingly springs to life from the surrounding wilderness.

Accommodation: Stratford - 1 night

Egmont National Park Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Embark on our third National Park adventure this morning as we delve into the beauty of Egmont National Park, captivated by the majestic peak of Mt Taranaki. This dormant snow-capped volcano offers a breathtaking spectacle, especially for avid photographers. Our day unfolds with diverse hikes, exploring highlights like Dawson Falls, Stratford Plateau, and Wilkies Pools. In the afternoon, the enchanting Waitomo Glowworm Caves beckon. Experience two distinct caves, learning about their formation, and glide on a raft through a surreal setting, illuminated by countless glowworms resembling celestial constellations—a truly unique New Zealand wonder.

Accommodation: Waitomo - 1 night

Accommodation:

Waitomo Village Chalets

Located in Waitomo Caves, a 12-minute walk from Waitomo Glow Worm Caves, Waitomo Village Chalets home of Kiwipaka has accommodations with a garden, free private parking, a shared lounge and a terrace. Each room at the 4-star hotel has garden views and free WiFi. All rooms are equipped with a patio.

Kaniwhaniwha Reserve & Depart Auckland

As we depart Waitomo it may be the final day of our North Island adventure, but it will certainly be one to remember. This morning we’ll explore the Kaniwhaniwha Reserve and the incredible Nikau & Kaniwhaniwha Caves walk and its impressive limestone formations.

From here we’ll make our way back to Auckland, allowing plenty of time to reminisce on the past six incredible days. We’re happy to drop you at the airport or at your Auckland accommodation. We recommend that you combine this trip with one of our South Island itineraries to enjoy the complete New Zealand experience. This trip works particularly well in conjunction with our Kiwi Classic and Masterpiece trips or combine it with New Zealand Great Walk Adventure – South for the ultimate Great Walks experience.