8 Day Thermal Explorer

Welcome to Auckland. This is a city with sparkling twin harbours and the sea is very much a part of this city that an unusually high number of people own their own boats, giving the city its moniker of the ‘City of Sails’.

Depart Auckland on the Thermal Explorer Highway through the rolling green hills and pastures that are synonymous with Hamilton & Waikato region. As you head south to Rotorua, a short detour for Matamata will bring you to Hobbiton Movie Set and we have included a 2-hour tour to explore the set. On arrival in Rotorua, we suggest heading to Polynesia Spa for a relaxing soak in their pools.

Today is a free day to enjoy the many sightseeing activities Rotorua has to offer – travel up the Skyline gondola and zoom down the luge tracks, try one of the various mountain bike tracks in the Redwoods Forest or relax and unwind at Hells Gate – New Zealand’s only geothermal mud spa.

To immerse yourself in Maori culture, head to Whakarewarewa, the Living Maori Village. This the home of the Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao people, who have been sharing their unique way of life with visitors from all around the world for over two hundred years. It’s only an hour’s drive to reach Taupō which is home to Lake Taupo and is New Zealand’s largest lake located at the heart of the Central North Island.

You have the day in Taupō, and we have included a visit to the spectacular Huka Falls by jet boat. From your unique vantage point on the jet boat, you will have the best water level view of Huka Falls. Later that day take a cruise on the lake to see the renowned Maori rock carvings with Chris Jolly Cruises.

Continuing with your journey south you can see the mighty volcanic peaks of Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe. Tongariro is a dual status World Heritage Park, home to three superb ski-fields and some of New Zealand’s most spectacular hikes and walking adventures. The famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, an outstanding 19km full day walk is a New Zealand must do, and there are many other ways to explore these magnificent mountains and rivers.

Time to begin your journey back up the North Island. The diverse Waikato region is home to the world-famous Waitomo Caves. Known as one of New Zealand’s best natural attractions, take a boat ride through the glow worm grotto, marvel at thousands of magical glowworms and become part of over 130 years of cultural and natural history. You will overnight in Hamilton and the city centre has many great dining options for you to explore.

It is a 1 ½ hours’ drive to Auckland so have a leisurely breakfast and enjoy the morning exploring the excellent paths on the banks of the mighty Waikato River before driving back to Auckland to return your car hire and heading home.