Day 1:  This morning you’ll be picked up from your accommodation for a geothermal wonderland tour around the Rotorua region.  Experience the amazing geothermal activity, gushing geysers, boiling mud pools and the many colors of every tint and hue displayed in the pools, lakes, craters, steaming vents and mineral terraces of Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. Then enjoy the Waimangu Volcanic Valley nature walk amidst a stunning volcanic landscape with spectacular views of hot crater lakes, steaming cliffs, hissing fumeroles, colourful silica terraces, rare thermally adapted plants and the opportunity to see some of NZ's native birdlife.  You have this afternoon at leisure. We recommend visiting Skyline Rotorua for great views and fun luge rides, also the Redwoods Treewalk during the day and in the evening.

 

Day 2:   Today you get to enjoy a fully guided hiking experience that encompasses the unique landscape and history of iconic Mt Tarawera, infamous for its eruption on June 10th, 1886. Mt Tarawera created the world's youngest geothermal valley of Waimangu; at the same time destroying the legendary Pink and White Terraces. Each journey begins with an off road 4x4 experience through native New Zealand bush, transporting you to the craters edge. With spectacular scenic vistas and 360 panoramic views this experience is ideal for all ages and includes an optional run into the heart of the volcanic crater.

 

Day 3:   This morning you’re off exploring on a private tour out of Rotorua.  First up is a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set Tour in Matamata.  This half day tour to the actual Hobbiton village from the Lord of the Rings movie trilogies is must for movie fans. Your tour starts with a drive through a 1,250 acre working sheep farm. The Hobbit Holes, Green Dragon Inn, Mill and other structures created for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films can then be viewed and you will see how this beautiful piece of Waikato farmland was transformed into The Shire from Middle Earth. The tour guide escorts you through the 10 acre site while recounting fascinating details on how the Hobbiton movie set was created. At the end of the tour enjoy a sample bespoke beverage at the Green Dragon Inn. Relax in hand-crafted leather chairs in front of a crackling open fire and take in the view across the lake to the mill and Bag End.  Next up you’re off to Waitomo Caves.  Walk through these underground limestone caverns on a 45 minute guided tour and hear how the amazing stalactites, stalagmites, and other rock formations were formed over 30 million years. The magical Glowworm Grotto is a highlight - travel by boat along an underground stream, while above thousands of tiny glowworms illuminate the cavern. Return back to Rotorua to relax this afternoon before your indigenous evening experience at Te Po.  Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley has inspired the local Maori people for centuries - Te Po is a combination of cultural storytelling, entertainment and a traditional dinner.

 

Day 4:  Today you get to explore Tongariro, New Zealand’s oldest national park and a dual World Heritage area. Known for important Maori cultural and spiritual associations as well as spectacular volcanic features this is a great day out with Foris Eco Tours.  Enjoy walks that include the best scenery, stunning waterfalls and spectacular geology. The tour focus on natural history and not strenuous walks and goes to places off the beaten track to enjoy New Zealand's first National Park.

 

Day 5:  Transfer to the airport and catch your flight home.