Jill Pass

Today you have a full free day to embrace the laid back lifestyle that makes this area such a popular NZ holiday destination. Make the most of this special place by taking a scenic walk or kayak to the nearby Cathedral Cove, a paradise-like beach that you might recognize from one of the Narnia films. If you prefer water sports, the coast off Hahei is part of the protected Te-Whanganui-a-Hei Marine Reserve, which is a prime place to go scuba diving, snorkelling or take a glass bottom boat tour.

ACCOMODATION

Accommodation by the waterfront.

SIGHTS

Optional Paid Activities: Kayaking, scuba diving, bike hire, glass bottom boat tour.

Free Activities: Walk to Cathedral Cove, watch the sunrise on the beach, go snorkelling in the marine reserve, explore old cultural sites or simply relax on the beach.

We leave Hahei early to travel to the mighty Waikato region. First up is a little adventure into Bridal Veil Falls, where a short walk through beautiful native bush leads to an impressive cascading waterfall. Our destination today is at the world-renowned surf town of Raglan. There’s no better place to learn to surf; but if you don’t fancy a splash in the waves, the afternoon is free to watch the surfers from the beach or enjoy a bush walk. Chill out or go hard in this arty surf town.

ACCOMODATION

An eco-lodge, near the beach set in native bush.

SIGHTS

Optional Paid Activities: Learn to surf, sunset cruise, dine on fresh fish and chips for dinner.

Free Activities: Walk to the waterfall, bush walk around Mt Karioi, beach walk, glow-worm spotting in the bush, West Coast sunset, Inspiration Point.

Departing early, our first stop on route to Rotorua is at Waitomo, a small rural town where it’s main attraction is in fact underground. Don’t miss out on the opportunity for a seriously cool caving adventure that will have you wading, climbing, abseiling and tubing through Waitomo’s magnificent cave network. From here we continue on to Rotorua where you have the opportunity to make this a 10/10 day with a visit the world famous Hobbiton Movie Set. Explore the hills, gardens and houses that were home to Frodo and Bilbo in Peter Jackson’s epic trilogies. Those not interested in Hobbiton, will continue on to Rotorua and will be joined by the Hobbiton goers early evening.

ACCOMODATION

Comfortable central city hostel.

SIGHTS

Free Activities: Walk around Ruakuri Reserve, Waitomo Valley Caves walk

Paid Activities: Waitomo ‘must-do’ caving options or a glow-worm tour, Hobbiton, Tamaki Village

We depart at midday, leaving the morning free to get involved in one of the many adventure activities on offer in Rotorua. This afternoon our trip takes us further off the beaten track into the remote area of Lake Aniwhenua, voted as one of the top overnight stops. As we drive into the Kaingaroa Forest we will meet up with a respected Maori elder who will guide the group to a sacred archaeological site to view some of NZ’s oldest Maori rock carvings. As we approach the small township we will visit the local Marae (a Maori meeting house), where we will receive a traditional welcome and spend time learning about the Maori’s cultural beliefs, song and dance while sharing some ‘kai’ (afternoon tea). Tonight while staying in the tranquil oasis of Kohutapu Lodge, you will learn how to cook a traditional ‘Hangi’ (a feast cooked underground). Opt into one of the many activities on offer or simply enjoy a sunset drink at the Taniwha Bar overlooking the lake. You will be both touched and inspired as you learn about the beneficial community program to which Stray travellers are contributing.

Unique Experience: The Lake Aniwhenua overnight experience is $95, which includes comfortable lodge accommodation, a guided tour to sacred Maori rock carvings, a Marae experience, afternoon tea, delicious ‘Hangi’ dinner and buffet breakfast, participation in an altruistic community program.

ACCOMODATION

Scenic lakefront lodge, including afternoon tea, a Hangi dinner and breakfast

SIGHTS

Free Activities: Guided tour with a local Maori, Karakia (Maori blessing), relax by the lake, walks.

Paid Activities: Night eeling, flax weaving.

We depart at 7.00am and head to Taupo, see Huka Falls and have time to experience skydiving if you’re brave! Our destination is Blue Duck Station, a 7,200 acre high country station that is both a working farm and an environmental conservation leader.  

ACCOMODATION

Country station lodge.

SIGHTS

Free Activities: Huka Falls, walk around the stunning Whakahoro Station.

Paid Activities: Bungy Jump in Taupo, Skydive, jet boat ride. 

Today is yours to explore and discover this remote unique NZ destination! 

ACCOMODATION

Country station lodge. 

SIGHTS

Free Activities: Explore the amazing farm, go for a hike, relax. This place is EPIC!

Paid Activities: Horse riding, jet boating, 4WD touring.

Up early today to head to Tongariro National Park. You have a chance to walk the Tongariro Alpine Crossing – one of the world’s best day walks. 

ACCOMODATION

Alpine Lodge. 

SIGHTS

Free Activities: Taranaki Falls walk, visit the Volcanic Centre, Tawhai Falls (Gollum’s pool).

Paid Activities: New Zealand's best one-day walk, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. 

Today is mostly an express day to get to Wellington, and the afternoon is yours to explore the sites of the capital. Wellington is an awesome place to just hang out and check out the arts, shopping and the cafe scene. 

ACCOMODATION

Central city hostel.

SIGHTS

Free Activities: We recommend wandering down Oriental Parade or visiting Te Papa national museum.

We depart in the early morning. This is an express day via the National Park heading back to New Zealand’s largest city Auckland. You can hop off anywhere along the way. For those who may have missed out on hiking the Tongariro Crossing, you have the option to hop off in National Park and try again. With an early evening arrival, there’s still time to wander the streets of Auckland, visit the waterfront, do some souvenir shopping and hang out in some of Auckland’s lively cafes and bars. We hope you had a blast on your adventure!

ACCOMODATION

Central Auckland hostel.