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Hiking Safari |
| Start: | Auckland - SkyTower Visitor Centre, corner Federal & Victoria Streets, 8:00am |
| Finish: | Auckland 7:00pm (approx.) OR Wellington 7:00pm (train option) |
| Length: | 5 days |
| Grade: | D (Uneven track surfaces and river crossings.) |
| Price: | NZ$595 |
| Extra Costs: | $29/day kitty |
| Departs: | Tuesdays - see Departures |
Highlights: Experience the best of New Zealand’s volcanic zone. Inhale the aromas of Rotorua, discover hot streams, and hike along lakes and among volcanoes. This is the perfect trip if you’re short on time or you like a bit more comfort as the camping is optional.
Day 1: Morning drive to Rotorua. Raft the wild Kaituna River (optional extra) or walk the scenic track. Hike through bush alongside tranquil Lake Okataina. Attend a traditional Maori concert and dinner (optional extra) or check out the local restaurants. 1 hour rafting and 2 hours hiking.
Day 2: Head south and be amazed at Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland (optional extra). Bathe in a naturally hot river flowing through the bush. Peer over Huka falls before taking a relaxing swim in Lake Taupo. Hike across alpine grasslands to hut/camp in Tongariro National Park. 1.5 hours hiking.
Day 3: Hike to Oturere hut/camp through an extraordinary landscape of active volcanoes and turquoise lakes. 4 hours hiking.
Day 4: Hike up to Emerald Lakes and across a plateau, perhaps climbing one of the volcanoes (unguided section). Guzzle a well-earned beer at a lodge with amazing views of the volcanoes. 6-8 hours hiking.
Day 5: Relaxing morning if you need it. Visit the Department of Conservation display centre, otherwise hike to Taranaki Falls. Leave lodge at noon to catch the TranzScenic train to Wellington. Others travel north to Auckland with an optional get off at Waitomo (3:00pm), reaching Auckland at approximately 7:00pm. 2 hours hiking.
Click here for the detailed trip dossier
This trip goes well with the following tours:
"A great North Island hike"
HIKING NEW ZEALAND
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