At a Glance
A horizon-expanding on an 8-day multi adventure; hike, bike and kayak New Zealand’s diverse North Island from rolling green hills to volcanic landscapes and endless coastlines that will leave you enchanted. From Auckland, Rotorua, Cathedral Cove, Lake Taupo to Hawke’s Bay and everything splendour in between; be left breathless in New Zealand’s raw natural wonders.
Your incredible odyssey begins at Auckland from where you shuttle to Coromandel Peninsula and take a brief van ride to Broken Hills Recreation Area. Hike past creeks, farmlands and discover an unchanging forest and valley. Paddle through white cliffs and watch as the whales, dolphins grace their habitat. Traverse suspension bridges and uncover the historic gold-mining area. Cherish the astonishing views of rainforests filled with leafy tree ferns. Admire fascinating view of an incredible landscape that ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- All meals as specified in itinerary
- All luggage, airport, hotel transfers and shuttle transfers as specified in itinerary
- 7 nights’ accommodation in luxury hotels on a twin share basis
- Professional guiding: two support vans, 6:1 guest to leader ratio on average
- Biking, hiking, kayaking and sightseeing as stated in the itinerary
- Park and other entry fees
- Comprehensive travel planner with detailed pre trip information
- Fully equipped titanium bike including helmet and accessories
- Equipment for kayaking
- Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
- Snacks and beverages between meals
- Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Itinerary
Walking: Level 1, Approx. 5 km (3 miles), Elevation gain: minimal Meet your tour leaders at 9 a.m. at the Hilton Auckland. Please arrive dressed in your hiking clothes and bring your luggage, daypack with your rain gear and any other things required for the day's journey. (Your luggage will be transferred to our first night’s accommodation) From our rendezvous point, we take a scenic shuttle to Coromandel Peninsula where you’ll get acquainted with your guides over a delicious lunch. Today’s interesting hike begins in this wonderful area where we get to visit the part of the local forest only accessed by few people. From there, we take a short ride to Broken Hills Recreation Area. Hike through effervescent creek and tranquil farmland to the arms of a concealed valley and Amazonian Forest that has remained the same over millions of years. Get educated on the history of New Zealand's flora and fauna by the guide as you take a scenic stroll past giant tree ferns, hanging vines and swirling clear-water swimming holes. |
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We shuttle to the glorious Puka Park Resort which is our abode for the night. A secluded luxury lodge set amidst 25 acres of native bush that offers the perfect getaway. Get comfortable in your various chalets housed in the deep part of a forest canopy. In the evening, we gather to enjoy a sumptuous dinner at the award-winning Miha restaurant whose menu includes dishes with Pacific Rim flavour and modern European twist inspired by fresh fish and produce. |
Walking: Level 1, Approx. 5 km (3 miles), Elevation gain: 122 m (400 ft) Kayaking on Mercury Bay (half day) Today, we move to see more of the wonderful Coromandel Peninsula. We stop at Hahei Beach and gear up for a splendid kayaking adventure which will leave you utterly astonished. Paddle along the beach through the Mercury Bay which offers a majestic view of rocky white cliffs topped with old growth pohutukawa trees. Kayak in the splendour of the jaw-dropping Cathedral Cove and admire the calm sprawled seascape surrounded by beautiful monoliths and striking cliffs. Marvel in the work of nature as you admire the view of remarkable sculptures formed from eroded pale coral-colored sand stones. Take a refreshing dip in the bright-blue shallow water. Once on dry land, we head to the Mercury Bay Estate Winery where we enjoy lunch of local delicacies gotten from the region’s finest produce before shuttling back to Pauanui. At Pauanui, you can take a scenic stroll on the beach or take up the challenge of hiking to the Pauanui peak which offers splendid scenery or spend the day relaxing in the hotel by indulging in a soothing muscle massage at the spa or swimming in the pool. |
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We return to our wonderful lodge for the night. For dinner, savour the excellent cuisine at the hotel's state of the art dining room which offers an attractive view of the surrounding forest |
TWO HIKING OPTIONS: We embark on a scenic shuttle down south to the renowned Karangahake Gorge, a historically rich gold-mining area active for more than 75 years until 1952 that lies between the Coromandel and Kaimai ranges and a suspension bridge over the Ohinemuri River. Be welcomed into a thick rainforest surrounded by high leafy tree fern. With the sheer, bush-clad rock walls of the gorge, the rising and falling river, and then the relics of gold mines and mining equipment to add flavour, this is one of the greatest places to hike. Going over a suspension bridge, make your way to the entrance of a 91 m (300 ft) long mining tunnel which you navigate in darkness with the help of your tour leaders. We have our lunch at the picturesque river spot completed by a series of waterfalls the tunnel opens to. After lunch, we explore the large expanse of the gorge surrounded by sharp, vertical cliff walls reverberating with the sound of rushing water. We head back to the van and admire the amazing passing scenery which should remind us of “The Shire” from The Lord of the Rings movie as we journey to the thermal region of Rotorua where we take in the beautiful scenery of steaming lakes, boiling mud pools and soothing naturally heated baths. |
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From here, we head out home for the night – the majestic Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel and Spa. A 5-star resort perfectly positioned on the edge of Lake Rotorua. This beautiful land includes rose gardens, sweeping lawns, swimming pool, sauna, secret grotto, Sandy beach, exquisite rooms, and designer lounges. In the evening, we come together to enjoy a delicious meal at the hotel’s exquisite dining room overlooking the peaceful bay. |
TWO BIKING OPTIONS: The Rotorua terrain lies over a volcanic fault line, giving birth to a dazzling landscape that seems to bubble, steam and vent at every turn. You will have the chance to see this wonder of nature up close. After a brief shuttle from the hotel to Taupo, the tour leaders will fit your bikes and give a brief talk on biking safety and techniques. Pedal on tranquil road through grassland, along the steep white cliffs of the Paeroa Range to the Waikite hot pools, a well-known local swimming spot. The water is naturally heated from within the Earth and will make a good place to relax from riding. Have lunch at the pool and from there carry on to Hilton Lake Taupo. Optionally, you can free-fall off the North Island tallest bungee-jumping platform which is more than 49 metres high. For those who want to try out a less exhilarating experience, you can try out the free-fall swing across the gorge. (Not included in the trip price) |
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We end the day at the chic and spacious Hilton Lake Taupo, a 5-star hotel located uphill from New Zealand’s largest lake, Lake Taupo offering breathtaking views of the lake. This evening, we dine in the hotel’s main restaurant offering seasonal a la carte dinner. |
Walking: Level 1, Approx. 5 km (3 miles), Elevation gain: 92 m (300 ft) Rafting on the Tongariro River (half day) We embark on a scenic early morning shuttle to Turangi at the south end of Lake Taupo. Admire the surrounding forest and get a sight of brown trout (salmonid fish) in the river's spotless waters as you shoot the rapids of the Tongariro River on this exciting whitewater cruise. We carry on to the awe-inspiring Tongariro National Park after lunch. Explore Lake Rotopounamu which is a beautiful and ostracized lake in the centre of the park. Wonder at the stunning colour of the water on a sunny day which is why the lake is called Rotopounamu (greenstone lake). |
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Head back to the prestigious Hilton lake hotel and spend the afternoon as you please. You can read a book while relaxing in the comfort of your room, swim in the mineral rich water of the pool, and enjoy the breathless sauna. Dinner is on your own. You can choose to dine at the hotel’s posh restaurant or go into town and visit one of the unbeatable local restaurants. |
TWO BIKING OPTIONS: HIKING OPTION: Enjoy a lovely breakfast, and then shuttle to the impressive Huka Falls. Huka means “great body of spray”. Appreciate the pleasant view of the river forcing its way through a narrow rock course and shoot out in a powerful surge. Take in the picturesque seascape as you take a tranquil stroll along the banks of the Waikato River, or you can spend the morning leisurely at the hotel. After the morning hike, carry on to the renowned Hawke’s Bay wine region where you settle for a nice Kiwi-style lunch on the spacious grounds of Art Deco Valley Café. Pedal to the charming Esk Valley filled with lovely vineyards and evergreens. Hike through the steep hills or hop in the shuttle as we continue to explore the fertile land. Going farther south, we are welcomed into large vineyards, fruit orchards and rolling fields of the Hawke’s Bay. This area is famous for producing some of the country’s finest wine, and it is also called the “Bordeaux of New Zealand” because of its amazing full-bodied roses. |
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You’ll stay at the elegant Mangapapa Hotel, a 5-star intimate abode with just 12 suites. Unwind at the day spa or take a refreshing dip in its serene pool before enjoying a Kiwi-style barbecue for dinner. |
TWO BIKING OPTIONS: Following a sumptuous breakfast, delve deeper into the natural splendours of Hawke’s Bay. Pedal to the Pacific Ocean through splendid views of coastal vineyards and admire the Cape Kidnappers, a noticeable peninsula that forms the southern edge of the Bay. From the Pacific Ocean, we ride along the running Tukituki River on the calm tree-lined country road into the shadow of the Te Mata Peak which is 400 m above sea level and admire the panoramic view of the region. Enjoy your lunch and wine tasting at a local winery. Spend the afternoon as you please. You can visit the village of Havelock North which has a natural, tree-lined charm and learn about its beautiful art, visit its unique restaurant, and honey centre or return to the hotel for a relaxing time by the pool. |
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Later in the evening, we have a farewell dinner at Mangapapa’s intimate restaurant and toast to the exciting memories of your journey. The chef goes all out serving us delectable dishes, perfect for the celebration to end a memorable adventure. |
TWO HIKING OPTIONS: To cap off this wonderful experience, shuttle to the trailhead and hike along a path that passes through forests, redwood groves, and up the grassy ridgeline to the Te Mata Peak. Climb up to the top of the peak and appreciate the beautiful views it offers. Head back to the hotel for a lovely high tea lunch service before we shuttle to the Napier Airport. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.
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Accommodation
Dates & Prices
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The departure point is Auckland
- The finish point is Napier
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Auckland.
The routes on this trip are rated Levels 1-3.
Level 1, 2-5 hours, 3-8km (2-5 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 244m (800 ft)
Level 2, 2-4 hours, 6-11km (4-7 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 396m (1300 ft)
Level 3, 3-5 hours, 8-14km (5-9 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 610m (2000 ft)
Level 4, 4-6 hours, 10-18km(6-11 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 914m (3000 ft)
Level 5, 5-7 hours, 11-21+ km (7-13+ miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1219m (4000+ ft)
The routes on this trip are rated Levels 1-3.
Level 1, 2-3 hours, 13-35km (8-22 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 305m (1000 ft)
Level 2, 2-4 hours, 29-51km (18-32 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 671m (2200 ft)
Level 3, 3-5 hours, 42-68km (26-42 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1036m (3400 ft)
Level 4, 4-6 hours, 58-87km(36-54 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1341m (4400 ft)
Level 5, 5-7+ hours, 77-113+ km (48-70+ miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1341m+ (4400+ ft)
Performance Bike Custom-designed titanium bike built for cyclists to power up climbs and speed through the countryside. This performance road bike is lightweight and technologically advanced, featuring Shimano Ultegra Di2 electronic shifting, 11-speed compact gearing, a premium Mavic Ksyrium Pro wheelset and a full carbon fork. Responsive, efficient and comfortable for a drop-bar performance bike, it’s an impressive ride suited to avid riders. Drop handlebars only. Available Accessories: Trunk bag, flat pedals or toe-cages included (or bring your own pedals). |
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Touring Bike A proven classic, our custom-designed titanium touring bike is suited for a wide range of cyclists. Our most popular bike features a comfortable ergonomic seat and a long wheel base that add to the bike’s control and stability. This touring bike combines a wide range of gears with the ease of an adjustable upright riding position for comfort and efficiency. Upright handlebars only. Available Accessories: Rear rack and trunk bag, flat pedals or toe-cages included (or bring your own pedals). |
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Electric Assist Bike A lightweight yet powerful machine unique in the world of e-bikes. One of the lightest e-bikes available, it provides plenty of power (and then some!) to flatten the hills and more than enough battery range to cover the distance. Other outstanding features include the same comfort as our Touring Bikes and lower top tubes for easier mounting and dismounting. Available for guests 16 or older; not appropriate for pulling a Trailer Bike or a Cub trailer on a Family Trip. Upright handlebars only. Available Accessories: Rear rack and trunk bag and flat pedals or toe-cages included. |
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.