11 Day North to South Island Adventure Tour

Kia ora and welcome to Aotearoa! Your Intrepid adventure kicks off in vibrant Auckland, where you'll meet your tour group at the accommodation this evening. It’s a laid-back chance to connect with fellow travellers over some good food and drinks. After dinner, feel free to explore the city’s buzzing nightlife or take it easy with an early night—tomorrow the journey truly begins!

Today we leave the buzz of Auckland behind and cruise towards the stunning Coromandel Peninsula, known for its pristine beaches and lush rainforests. The coastal drive is packed with jaw-dropping views, so keep your camera handy! Once we arrive, your guide will give you a tour of this laid-back slice of paradise. If the tide is right, we’ll make our way to Hot Water Beach, where you can dig your very own natural spa in the sand—an iconic Coromandel experience.

We kick things off with a morning stroll to Cathedral Cove, one of the Coromandel’s most iconic coastal gems—recognisable from the Chronicles of Narnia. Think golden sands, dramatic rock arches, and postcard-perfect views. For a splash of adventure, you can opt for a guided kayak trip along the coastline—dolphin sightings are a lucky bonus! By afternoon, we’re heading south to Rotorua, but not without a stop in Matamata to explore the magical Hobbiton Movie Set. Wander through Hobbit Holes, snap pics by the Mill, and cap it off with a drink at the Green Dragon Inn. Rotorua awaits with its otherworldly geothermal landscapes.

Today’s all yours to soak up the wonders of Rotorua! For a relaxed start, wander over to Kuirau Park to see bubbling mud pools and steaming vents right in town. If you’re chasing thrills, take on the world’s highest commercial waterfall drop by white-water rafting the Kaituna River, or go rolling down hills in a giant inflatable ball—classic Rotorua fun! Keen for more nature? Zipline through ancient native forest on a canopy tour or paddle across Lake Rotoiti for a soak in secluded hot springs, topped off with a lakeside BBQ and a glow worm-lit paddle back at sunset. However you spend the day, rest up—tomorrow’s got even more in store.

This morning we dive into the heart of Māori culture at Te Puia, where you’ll explore the geothermal valley, witness the mighty Pohutu Geyser, and meet the elusive kiwi bird. It’s a brilliant mix of nature and cultural storytelling. In the afternoon, we travel to the welcoming Kohutapu Lodge in Murupara, where you'll get hands-on with Māori traditions—learn the haka, weave a plate from flax, and enjoy a hāngi feast cooked beneath the earth. This evening is not only unforgettable, it also directly supports the local community.

We hit the road for a short but scenic drive to Taupō, with some epic stops en route—think bubbling mud pools, the roaring Huka Falls, and the powerful Aratiatia Dam rapids. Once we roll into Taupō, you’ll be greeted by views of the massive lake (yep, it’s about the same size as Singapore!) and a backdrop of majestic mountains. The afternoon’s wide open for adventure—take the plunge with a water touch bungy, soar through the skies on a skydive, or keep it chill with a sunset cruise across the lake.

Today’s yours to explore Taupō however you like—go full throttle with adventure or take it slow by the lake. Keen hikers can tackle the legendary Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a challenging 19.4 km journey through dramatic volcanic terrain and past stunning crater lakes. If heights are calling, a skydive over the lake or a bungy jump above the Waikato River will get the heart racing. Prefer to keep it mellow? Cruise to see Māori rock carvings, stroll lakeside trails, or unwind in the local geothermal hot pools. Whatever your vibe, Taupō delivers in spades.

Today’s drive from Taupō to Wellington is a scenic feast, winding through the dramatic landscapes of the Desert Road. The views are next-level, with the volcanic peaks of Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro, and Mt Ngauruhoe (aka Mt Doom) stealing the show. Keep an eye out for the wild horses of the Kaimanawa Range too! We roll into Wellington by afternoon, with time to check out Weta Workshop for some behind-the-scenes movie magic, or explore Te Papa Museum and the buzzing waterfront. This lively capital is a dream for foodies and craft beer lovers—tonight, dig in and enjoy!

Start your morning like a true Wellingtonian—with a top-notch coffee from one of the city’s iconic cafés. Then we set sail across the stunning Cook Strait to the South Island, a ferry journey often ranked among the world’s most scenic—keep watch for dolphins and seals! Once we dock in the charming port town of Picton, it’s a cruisy 2.5-hour drive down the coast to Kaikōura. This seaside gem is famous for its black sand beaches and incredible marine life, setting the scene for tomorrow’s coastal adventures.

This morning in Kaikōura is yours to enjoy—explore the town, chill by the beach, or go whale watching, with a chance to see orca, humpback, and sperm whales thanks to the region’s unique marine geography. Some species are even spotted year-round! In the afternoon, we continue south to Christchurch, the South Island’s largest city. Tonight, treat yourself to the vibrant local food scene—we recommend checking out Riverside Market for a bite and a bevvy or two.

The tour has officially finished.