After a week of conference sessions, it is now time to enjoy some of the sights of New Zealand on a trip exclusively offered to conference delegates and their accompanying partners. This fully guided journey will take you from Wellington northward with a rich and varied itinerary, enabling you to see and experience some of the very best of New Zealand’s North Island.
Your guide will meet you in Wellington for an early morning departure. Please confirm your central Wellington hotel with us at least two months prior to departure, so we can finalise your pick-up time and provide all relevant contact details.
Embark on a scenic journey from the vibrant capital, Wellington, to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua, travelling along the Kapiti Coast and passing through charming towns such as Taihape.
Along the way, enjoy a stop at Tongariro National Park. Defined by three striking volcanoes—Ruapehu, Tongariro, and Ngauruhoe—this UNESCO World Heritage Site is steeped in Māori legend and features a dramatic, rugged landscape.
Continue on to Taupō, a picturesque town set on the shores of New Zealand’s largest lake, offering spectacular views and a perfect place for a break. Just north of Taupō, visit Huka Falls to witness powerful water surging through a narrow gorge—an impressive natural phenomenon that also plays a key role in local hydroelectric power generation.
Your journey concludes in Rotorua, the heartland of Māori culture and geothermal activity. Here, you can experience geysers, steaming lakes, bubbling mud pools, and vibrant hot springs renowned for their natural beauty and healing properties.
- Lake Taupo
- Huka Falls
Today, you may choose to visit Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland or Hobbiton Movie Set as an optional activity. Wai-O-Tapu is one of the region’s most vibrant geothermal areas, known for its boiling mud pools, white sinter terraces, geysers and bubbling lakes. Highlights include the Painter’s Palette, Devil’s Inkwell and the famous Champagne Pool, with the main attraction being the Lady Knox Geyser, which erupts up to 20 metres high every morning at 10:15 am. This geyser is formed when superheated underground water enters a groundwater reservoir, builds pressure and suddenly releases, sending steam and water shooting upwards in dramatic fountains. Alternatively, fans of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies may opt to visit the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set near Matamata, where guided tours showcase the charming Hobbit Holes, The Green Dragon Inn and the picturesque landscapes featured in the films.
The Te Puia Te Pō Combo then combines Rotorua’s geothermal wonders with an immersive Māori cultural evening, beginning in the afternoon with an exploration of the geothermal valley, including the Pōhutu Geyser, the Māori Arts and Crafts Institute and the Kiwi Conservation Centre. The evening continues with a traditional pōwhiri (welcoming ceremony) and cultural performance, followed by a buffet dinner featuring locally sourced dishes, including food cooked in a hāngi (earth oven), and concludes with a hot drink and a starlit viewing of the illuminated geyser.
Today, you leave the geothermal wonders of Rotorua behind as you head northwest toward Auckland. Along the way, you will delve into the mesmerizing underground world of the Spellbound glowworm caves in Waitomo, taking a peaceful boat ride beneath a canopy of twinkling lights. The drive then continues through the tranquil Waikato countryside until Auckland’s skyline comes into view, marking the shift to the lively energy of New Zealand’s largest city. Upon arrival, your guide will take you on a comprehensive Auckland city tour, showcasing the best local spots. Afterwards, you can unwind and enjoy the blend of historic charm and modern comfort at your accommodation.
- Spellbound Glowworm Caves
Today, your tour through Aotearoa / New Zealand comes to an end. You’ll be picked up from your accommodation by a shuttle transfer to take you to the airport.
Depending on your flight departure time, you may have some free time for additional sightseeing, shopping or optional activities. Your Intrepid guide will be happy to provide recommendations and assist with any last-minute bookings.
From Auckland, you may fly home directly. Alternatively, a return flight to Wellington can be arranged at an additional cost if you wish.
We hope you have enjoyed your trip and wish you a safe onward or homeward flight. Mā te wā.
