Overview
On New Zealand’s North Island, explore breathtaking natural landscapes—from ancient forests and glowworm caves to bubbling geothermal wonders. Witness conservation in action as you learn about New Zealand’s beloved national icon, the kiwi. No visit to the North Island is complete without a guided tour of the enchanting Hobbiton movie set.
Itinerary
New Zealand North Island
- Cultural Exploration
Day 1
Travel to New Zealand (Auckland)
Meet your Tour Director
Your 24-hour Tour Director will meet you at the airport and remain with your group until your final airport departure.
Auckland Tour Director-led sightseeing
Experience Auckland through Tour Director–led sightseeing that highlights New Zealand’s diverse landscapes and bicultural foundations. Visit Mission Bay to see how the harbour shapes city life, then travel to Maungawhau (Mount Eden), once a major Māori settlement. From the summit, enjoy sweeping views of Auckland and the Waitematā Harbour while learning how geography and culture are closely connected.
Day 2
All Blacks Experience guided visit
Step into the world of New Zealand rugby on an interactive guided visit. Explore immersive exhibits, test your skills, and learn about the legacy of the All Blacks and other national teams. Discover the history, traditions, and cultural significance of the sport, including the meaning and power of the haka.
Travel to Rotorua via Waitomo
Waitomo Caves and Glowworm Grotto visit
Descend into the Waitomo Caves, one of New Zealand's most spectacular natural wonders. Discover impressive limestone formations, including stalactites and stalagmites, before gliding through the world-famous Glowworm Grotto, where thousands of tiny glowworms illuminate the cave ceiling.
Day 3
Rotorua adventure and adrenaline experience
Get your adrenaline pumping with a day of adventure featuring world-exclusive rides born from Kiwi innovation. Choose your own thrill with experiences such as the Agrojet, Swoop, Shweeb Racer or Freefall Xtreme.
Skyline Rotorua Gondola and 3 Luge rides
Sit back and enjoy the ride as the Skyline Rotorua Gondola lifts you high above Rotorua and Lake Rotorua for sweeping views of the region. At the top, take an exciting Luge ride through more than a kilometre of Redwood forest, choosing your own pace along the track. Ride the chairlift back up for additional views, and take time to explore the Jelly Belly Store and the jelly bean art gallery at the summit.
Māori cultural experience and hāngī feast
Take part in a powerful welcome onto sacred grounds and into a Māori village. Experience traditional customs including the wero challenge, whaikōrero speeches and hongi greeting. Learn about Māori history through song, dance, poi and haka, then enjoy a buffet dinner prepared in a traditional hāngī beneath the ground.
Day 4
Kiwi Hatchery guided visit
See kiwi conservation in action and learn about New Zealand’s national icon, its native habitat, and what makes this unique bird so special. Visit the hatchery and follow the conservation journey from egg incubation and hatching to raising each chick until it reaches about 1 kg before being released into its natural habitat.
Geothermal reserve guided visit
Visit a geothermal reserve and discover the remarkable natural forces that have shaped the landscape. Explore unique geothermal features while learning about the volcanic and geothermal processes that continue to transform the region today.
Day 5
Hobbiton™ Movie Set guided visit
Step into the world of The Shire on a guided visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set, located on a working sheep farm. Learn how the detailed outdoor set was created, from handcrafted props to cinematic illusions used during filming. Your guide shares behind-the-scenes stories before the visit concludes at the Green Dragon Pub.
Return home
Optional Extension
Add 3 Days in the Bay of Islands
Travel to Paihia and cruise to historic Russell in the Bay of Islands. Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and experience a haka performance, discover Māori history at Manea Footprints of Kupe, and explore Waipoua Forest on an evening guided visit to meet Tāne Mahuta.
TourFlex: Your Experience, Your Way
With TourFlex, available for tours departing in October 2027 or later, you get the flexibility to shape an itinerary that's as unique as your group. Dial your trip up or down for more choice, more control, and more meaningful learning moments, all while getting the right experience at the right value. Available options vary by program and destination.
Explore Your Way
- Add experiences like theatre tickets or unique excursions
- Swap activities for ones that better serve your group
- Extend the learning through go-aheads or stay-behinds
Go Your Way
- Select transport options that suit your group's needs
- Choose from a variety of accommodation styles to support your level of comfort
Dine Your Way
- Choose pre-selected meals or encourage exploration by dining on your own
- Enjoy 2 course meals at local restaurants or at your accommodation, with the option to upgrade to 3 courses
Inclusions
Accommodations
WorldStrides Tour Director: A dynamic destination expert who makes learning come to life by leading your group's activities and discussions
Transportation to and from your destination
WorldAssist staff members available 24/7/365 should your group need extra help
Daily meals with options varying by program
Tips for local guides and drivers (excluding multi-day bus drivers)
Entrance fees to attractions as per itinerary
Guided sightseeing tours and city walks as per itinerary
Scenes from New Zealand
Health, Safety & Protection
Additional health and safety measures may be available within your respective destination. Refer to your program-specific materials for complete details.
Request a Quote
Ready to turn this itinerary into an unforgettable learning experience? Tell us about your school, group and travel plans, and our team will create a tailored quote for your next adventure.