Cultural & Theme Tours in North Island

Do you know, that Auckland is situated in narrowest part of the North Island? Thus the calm beaches of Hauraki Gulf on the East are just a 40 minutes drive from the black sands of the rough and wild West Coast.Yes, these two shores are dramatically different, and this is what we will explore, together with everything inland on our way in between, including:- scenic beach and nature walks- wine tasting- coffee break- some adventure elements- great photos opportunities

Come and say, 'Kia Ora!' to KaikouraRun away to Kaikoura for a 1 or 2 day scenic trip with complimentary Christchurch pick ups.Just 200 kms to the North, Kaikoura is a historic seaside settlement famous for wildlife, culture and great food!Jump aboard the Kaikoura Express and we'll take you on a scenic journey direct to the heart of Kaikoura with optional free connections to the Dolphin Encounter and Albatross Tours.Check out the native New Zealand Fur Seals, the rough rugged and wild coastline, a dolphin or whale watch tour, check out the spectacular Albatross or just cruise at your own pace.Kaikoura is a region rich in Maoritanga (indigenous culture) - join a walking tour and learn about the local flora and fauna or take a moment to explore the Kaikoura Museum and soak up the local history.

Spend an evening in Middle Earth with a small-group tour from Rotorua to the Hobbiton movie set, where you'll explore the Shire as the sun goes down. Visit Bilbo's hobbit hole, hear behind-the-scenes stories from The Lord of the Rings, then take a walk through the 12-acre site, following paths lit by flickering lanterns and moonlight. Then, sit down for a Hobbit-themed drink and banquet at The Green Dragon Inn before the return trip to Rotorua.

Experience a magical day with a trip to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and Hobbiton Movie Set on a tour from Rotorua. Cruise along the Waitomo River and underground cave systems to reach the "cathedral" rock formation where thousands of glow worms twinkle overhead. Then, take a guided tour through The Shire and see where Bilbo and Frodo Baggins lived, visiting sights such as the Green Dragon Inn and the Hobbit Holes.

Get an authentic introduction to Maori culture with an evening at the Mitai Maori Village of Rotorua. See warriors in traditional dress paddle in an ancient canoe, and be captivated by the displays of weaponry. You'll watch 'haka' and poi dances and view glowworms in their natural habitat. This 3-hour experience includes round-trip hotel transport and a traditional 'hangi' feast with your admission ticket.

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of New Zealand's finest hikes, a 12-mile (19.4 kilometer) trail past eccentric volcanic terrain, electric green lakes, steam vents, and springs. More than 100,000 people make the trek annually, but not all of them travel with the convenience of shuttle transport. This round-trip shuttle from National Park Village takes you to the trailhead and picks you up when you've finished the hike - so you can savor the moment and relax on the return journey.

Get of the beaten track and head for Taranaki.Trip Highlights- Local Guide-Small Group-Climb to the Summit of Paritutu Rock-Explore Back Beach and the Sugar Loaf Islands-Tour of New Plymouth City-Walk from the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge to the Wind Wand on the Coastal Walkway- Festival of Lights (Summer only)-Walk through Goblin Forest up Mount Taranaki-See a live Kiwi Bird at the Otorohanga Kiwi HouseNote Minimum number for this tour to be confirmed is 4 passengers.

Ever wanted to visit a real shooting stage? Blast off on an incredible journey and discover the Weta Workshop miniatures behind the popular TV series, Thunderbirds Are Go. Enjoy a rare photo opportunity, and get a collectable Thunderbirds Are Go pin to take home.

For fans of the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films, visiting the official Hobbiton Movie Set is a truly unforgettable experience. On this tour, enjoy comfortable round-trip transport from Auckland and extra attention from your guide thanks to the small group size. On arrival, explore the famous film set on a guided tour, hear behind-the-scenes stories about the making of the movies, and see the Hobbit Holes, The Mill, and the Double Arched bridge. There will also be free time to shop for souvenirs or purchase lunch at the Shire's Rest Caf e.

Some tours really do offer thrilling experiences unlike most others. With this Skywalk and Dine tour, walk around the rim of the Sky Tower's deck while attached to a safety line. See Auckland from 192 meters (630 feet) above the ground while a guide points out key landmarks and city locations. Then, reward yourself with a first-rate dinner at the tower's revolving restaurant.

Experience the mythical world of Middle Earth on a half-day tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set from Tauranga. Explore the magnificent film set and admire original props from the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies on a guided tour; see iconic sites such as Gandalf's cutting, Bag End, and the Green Dragon Inn; and enjoy a Hobbit-themed lunch (own expense) at the Shires Rest Caf e.

Combine cultural immersion and a culinary treat on the Hangi Pie Experience. Your ticket will get you admission to a special area of the geothermal wonderland of Te Whakarewarewa, with trails that aren't included on the regular guided tours. Enjoy a guided tour around the surreal landscape, learn more about Maori culture from your local guide, then feast on a lunch cooked in the steam of the thermal area.

Experience an evening of authentic Maori food, movement, and music paired with the raw power of the Pōhutu geyser with a night at the Te Puia cultural center. Watch an energetic performance inside a carved Maori meeting house, followed by a delicious 'hangi' feast prepared in a traditional pit oven. Later, venture into the geothermal valley to sip hot chocolate under the stars and watch the eruption of the Southern Hemisphere's largest active geyser.

Mount Eden is Auckland's highest point but it's more than just a viewpoint - the sacred Maori peak of Maungawhau also played an important role in Auckland's history. This 90-minute walking tour is led by an Ngāti Whātua guide, so you can uncover the fascinating cultural heritage of Mount Eden, as well as enjoying spectacular views of the city, Waitematā harbor, and Rangitoto Island.

Sail around Waitemata Harbour with an expert crew of Maori sailors on board a ‘waka,’ a traditional double-hulled canoe. Ply the waters in the tradition of Maori and other Polynesian navigators during the 2-hour journey as you learn about Maori boatbuilding and other seafaring customs, including the waka's epic journeys around the Pacific.

Take in the highlights of New Zealand's largest city on this half-day tour of Auckland and benefit from an expert guide and small group size. Admire views of Auckland Harbour and drive over the Harbour Bridge; gaze out over the city from the top of Mt Eden; visit K Road, the Auckland Domain, and the Mission Bay beaches; and explore atmospheric neighborhoods such as Parnell, Ponsonby, and Northcote Point.

Discover the beauty of the Waitangi River estuary and experience Maori traditions during a 3-hour cruise in a traditional canoe (waka) with a local Maori guide. Learn traditional paddling techniques in the calm waters of the estuary and make your way to Haruru Falls. Your guide shares informative commentary about Ngapuhi customs and history, and points out wildlife as you glide along. Disembark to visit a Ngapuhi meeting house and perhaps meet people from this Maori community. You'll also learn the moves of a 'haka' - an ancient Maori war dance.

This action-packed Rotorua tour will give you access to incredible outdoor beauty, teach you about Maori culture, and allow you to taste a delicious Hangi feast too. By going on a guided 4WD tour - you'll be able to visit remote places you wouldn't discover alone and spot native wildlife. Conveniently, all entrance tickets are included, and you'll enjoy Maori performances at Maori Village. When you've worked up an appetite, you'll be treated to a delicious Hangi feast served from a buffet.

Swap your cruise ship for a traditional Maori war canoe on this interactive shore excursion from Paihia. The history and ecology of the Bay of Islands is best understood with a local, and you'll paddle with a Ngapuhi guide who shares Maori traditions via the age-old art of storytelling. Learn ceremonial chants and visit a 'marae' (meeting ground) plus receive an all-inclusive day pass to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

Get a 60-minute introduction to the highlights of Te Papa's 'taonga,' meaning a 'cultural treasures' in the Māori language. While admission to the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa is free, a small-group tour with a museum guide offers more insight on the enrich your understanding of this unique culture.