New Zealand North Island Multi-Adventure Tour

Couples, Friends & Solos
Couples, Friends & Solos
ALSO AVAILABLE FOR:
Families with Teens & 20s
Families with 20s & Beyond

Small Group Adventures for:

Couples, Friends & Solos Adults 18+

Women's Adventures Women 18+

Families with Young Adults 20s & Beyond Best for ages 20+ (min. age 18)

Families with Teens & 20s Best for ages 16-23 (min. age 14)

Families with Kids & Teens Best for ages 7-17 (min. age 4)

8 days

7 nights

Activity Levels 1-3

We categorize our trips based on a range of activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between.

Premiere Hotels

Premiere Hotels - Experience the world’s best, from lavish luxury to chic retreats with prestigious alliances.

Deluxe Hotels - Find modern comforts in extraordinary settings, with great ambience and ample amenities.

Casual Hotels - Known for their character, charm and proximity to outdoor adventures and Backroads activities.

Small Luxury Ships - Unpack once and cover more distance on an intimate ship with spacious staterooms and superb amenities.

New Zealand North Island Multi-Adventure Tour

Couples, Friends & Solos
Couples, Friends & Solos
ALSO AVAILABLE FOR:
Families with Teens & 20s
Families with 20s & Beyond

Small Group Adventures for:

Couples, Friends & Solos Adults 18+

Women's Adventures Women 18+

Families with Young Adults 20s & Beyond Best for ages 20+ (min. age 18)

Families with Teens & 20s Best for ages 16-23 (min. age 14)

Families with Kids & Teens Best for ages 7-17 (min. age 4)

8 days

7 nights

Activity Levels 1-3

We categorize our trips based on a range of activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between.

Premiere Hotels

Premiere Hotels - Experience the world’s best, from lavish luxury to chic retreats with prestigious alliances.

Deluxe Hotels - Find modern comforts in extraordinary settings, with great ambience and ample amenities.

Casual Hotels - Known for their character, charm and proximity to outdoor adventures and Backroads activities.

Small Luxury Ships - Unpack once and cover more distance on an intimate ship with spacious staterooms and superb amenities.

2025: Oct-Dec2026: Jan-Apr, Nov-Dec2027: Jan-Mar

Rain Forest, Beaches & Vineyards from Auckland to Hawke's Bay

In New Zealand, the outdoors calls to you. Paddle serene waters, swim beneath a cascading waterfall or bask in the South Pacific sun. And follow it up with a glass of local wine.

... Read more
Bike
Walk/Hike
Kayak
Raft

Highlights

  • Raft exhilarating white water rapids on the famed Tongariro River and hike to thunderous Huka Falls
  • Bike through beautiful Hawke’s Bay, where some of New Zealand’s best and most famous wines are produced
  • Discover the splendor of Cathedral Cove’s sculpted sandstone forms and gorgeous beaches by kayak
  • Experience Māori culture through a traditional hangi feast and captivating performances
  • Relax in charming boutique hotels and luxury lodges, enjoying the scenic surroundings and warm Kiwi hospitality
  • Read More
New Zealand map

New Zealand

StartAuckland

EndNapier

Airports & Travel details*

* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

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Itinerary

Kayaking in a bay in New Zealand

Day 1

Description

Start your trip with a scenic cruise from Auckland to Waiheke Island • Walk through a kaleidoscope of island scenery, including lush forest, hillside vineyards and quiet bays • Quintessential New Zealand wine is yours for the tasting at an award-winning Waiheke winery • Kick back in style in Auckland’s swanky Britomart district.

Accommodations

Night 1

The Hotel Britomart
Auckland
Premiere Hotel

This exquisite ultra-eco hotel offers unmatched luxury and serenity in the city's chic Britomart district.

Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.
backroads guests biking down a road

Days 2-3

Description

Embark on a breathtaking bike ride on the historic Hauraki Rail Trail and through the famous Karangahake Gorge • Spin into the quaint gold rush town of Waihi • Enjoy a spectacular vista across the native bush and out to the Pacific as you walk at Shakespeare Cliffs • Kayak in Cathedral Cove, where sandstone formations, beaches and bright blue waters await • Put your feet up at a laid-back chalet tucked into the thick forest canopy.

Accommodations

Nights 2-3

Puka Park Resort
Pauanui
*Deluxe Hotel

Settle into your private chalet at this secluded wilderness hideaway nestled among 25 acres of New Zealand bush. (pool, spa)

Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.
White water rafting in New Zealand

Days 4-5

Description

Bike through a colorful patchwork of farmland • Take in views of Lake Taupo, the largest freshwater lake in Australasia • If you’re feeling fearless, now’s your chance to bungee jump over the azure Waikato River • Stroll along a pathway leading to an overlook of thunderous Huka Falls • Shoot the rapids on an exciting white-water rafting adventure down the Tongariro River • Be welcomed into a Maori family-run marae (meeting house) for a traditional performance and meal.

Accommodations
Kinloch Manor

(2 nights)

Nights 4-5

Kinloch Manor
Taupo
Premiere Hotel

Perched on a serene hillside estate, this elegant sanctuary offers captivating views of Lake Taupo. (spa)

Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.
Shot of countryside vineyard, hills behind.

Days 6-8

Description

Cruise on two wheels alongside rolling fertile pastureland • Pedal through Hawke’s Bay, a wine region known for its syrah, and stop for tastings under the shade of pines and oaks • Discover the art deco town of Napier along the Pacific Ocean • Settle into cozy Mangapapa Hotel, a country mansion you won’t want to leave • The 360-degree views of ocean and countryside from Te Mata Peak make our last walk extra thrilling.

Accommodations
Mangapapa Hotel

(2 nights)

Nights 6-7

Mangapapa Hotel
Hawke's Bay
Premiere Hotel

Built over a century ago, a beautifully renovated country hotel with a wraparound veranda and lush gardens. (pool, spa)

Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.

Want to learn more about this trip?

Request a Detailed Itinerary! Complete with descriptions of each day, tips on travel arrangements, regional highlights and more, it’s the perfect tool to help you choose. You can easily share it with friends too!

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What's Included

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Straight Talk

We want to make sure you're on the trip that's right for you. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.

From $7,999 /person

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Hotels

World-Class Hotels

Our hand-selected Premiere hotels offer exceptional hospitality and experiences as special as the regions we explore.

Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.

Night 1

The Hotel Britomart
Auckland

Premiere Hotel

This exquisite ultra-eco hotel offers unmatched luxury and serenity in the city's chic Britomart district.

Nights 2-3

Puka Park Resort
Pauanui

*Deluxe Hotel

Settle into your private chalet at this secluded wilderness hideaway nestled among 25 acres of New Zealand bush. (pool, spa)

Nights 4-5

Kinloch Manor
Taupo

Premiere Hotel

Perched on a serene hillside estate, this elegant sanctuary offers captivating views of Lake Taupo. (spa)

Nights 6-7

Mangapapa Hotel
Hawke's Bay

Premiere Hotel

Built over a century ago, a beautifully renovated country hotel with a wraparound veranda and lush gardens. (pool, spa)

From $7,999 /person

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Bikes

Choose Your Perfect Bike

Our bikes are designed and built with specific cyclists and riding styles in mind, so we can always offer you a perfect ride. Please note that bike requests are subject to availability and prioritized based on the date they're submitted.

Backroads Performance Road Bike
Performance Road Bike

Included in your trip price

  • Ideal for avid cyclists
  • Responsive, efficient and comfortable
  • Drop handlebars only
Backroads Touring Bike
Backroads Touring Bike

Included in your trip price

  • Suited for a wide range of cyclists
  • Comfortable ergonomic seat
  • Long wheel base adds to the bike's control and stability
  • Upright handlebars only
Backroads Electric-Assist Bike
Backroads Electric-Assist Bike

Included in your trip price

  • One of the lightest e-bikes available
  • Provides plenty of power and more than enough battery
  • Lower top tubes for easier mounting and dismounting
  • Upright handlebars only
  • Limited availability on Unplugged Bike Tours;  learn more

Min. age to ride e-bike: 16+

From $7,999 /person

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Reviewed by 15 customers

Exceeded expectations, and my expectations were high!

Submitted February 2025

By Steph

From Madison, Wisconsin

This was my first BR trip -- multi-adventure in the North Island of New Zealand. I had read so many reviews saying that the BR trips exceed expectations, so my expectations were high. I can hardly believe how awesome this trip was. The leaders were friendly, experienced, and planful, taking excellent care of us. The hotels and food were exceptional. The adventures were all well planned so I could just show up and enjoy the beauty of New Zealand while others took care of the details. I am already dreaming about my next BR adventures! I believe there will be many more. I am a total convert!

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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Fantastic Experience

Submitted November 2024

By Dave

From Ontario, Canada

New Zealand was my first Backroads trip and I enjoyed it tremendously. The scenery was great, the guides very knowledgeable, hotels were high quality, and the food was spectacular. As a solo traveler, I was a bit nervous about fitting in with others in the group but everyone was very welcoming. In fact, the best part of the trip was meeting so many wonderful people including a very special person who I am planning to travel with on a Backroads trip to Patagonia in January 2025. Thanks for a wonderful experience, Backroads.

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Best thing we ever did!

Submitted December 2023

By Julie

From Fullerton, Calif.

We were so impressed with our leaders (Uta and Fabrice), and all the planning that went into this trip. It was true contentment and BLISS!

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Treehouse view from Puka Park Lodge.
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What a way to end our trip!
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Cathedral Cove.
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Kayaking in Mercury Bay.
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Biking along Hawke's Bay.
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Dinner at the Black Swan Hotel.
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Hiking to Shakespeare Cliff.

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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Great Trip, Even With the Effects of a Tropical Cyclone

Submitted February 2023

By Ron

From Menasha, Wisconsin

This was our 9th Backroads trip. We had just finished the south island tour a week before this one and had a great time. Unfortunately, as this trip started, a tropical cyclone was approaching the very areas we were to stay. This caused many of our activities, meal locations, etc., to be changed or cancelled but the trip leaders did an outstanding job of keeping us informed and, where they could, active. The trip ultimately got cut short after the first 4 days as the cyclone had severely damaged the area were to spend the rest of our time in. Though not the way we wanted to end the trip, the way this was handled demonstrated Backroads' ultimate customer care and professionalism. We'll definitely be back! (Oh, and by the way...you NEED to see New Zealand with Backroads!)

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Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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Best Trip Ever

Submitted February 2023

By Stacey

From Canada

This was my first trip with Backroads and it exceeded my expectations. The accommodations, activities, food and the people were all fantastic. I would like to thank our leaders, Ciaran, Darryl and Jess for making my first trip so memorable. We are already thinking about our next trip with Backroads!

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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Above and beyond our high expectations!

Submitted January 2023

By anastasia

From Hermosa Beach, CA

This trip was the perfect combination of adventure, great food, activity and FUN! The multi-sport delivered an exciting journey without too much of anything! Somewhat surprisingly, the food was world class and delicious! The Maori experience at the home of a tribal chief was a night my family will never forget. We were so lucky to have a wonderful group of families and the adult "kids" had an absolute blast. They would recommend doing the bungee jumping but this mom would not : ) Our trip leaders were absolutely wonderful in every way. Their enthusiasm, knowledge, flexibility and good humor enhanced our trip a thousandfold. If you are on the fence about this trip, just say YES.

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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Fantastic NZ Multisport trip!

Submitted January 2020

By Cindy

From Seattle

This was our 9th Backroads trip and one of the best!! Our guides Felicia, Laura, and Claire were delightful, funny, knowledgeable, and anticipated our every need. The scenery was breathtaking and the variety of activities gave us the chance to see many parts of the North Island- from hiking in the forest or around a lake, to kayaking along the beach and coast, biking by farms and orchards, white river rafting- so fun!, and we even did a bungy swing! There was also delicious food, wonderful hotels, wine tasting, and massages. Our group was a lot of fun and we made many new friends. The fantastic guides, well planned activities, and high quality food and lodging keeps us loyal fans of Backroads and we are looking forward to planning our 10th trip!

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We passed lots of NZ sheep
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Hiked to the top of hill by Puka Lodge with a beautiful lookout
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Kayaking to Cathedral Cove
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Our fabulous guides!
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Biking past beautiful apple orchards
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Biking past beautiful scenery

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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What an amazing adventure trip!

Submitted January 2020

By KVJ

From Michigan

New Zealand is a land of new wonders + surprises around every bend. Our trip leaders were awesome in every way imaginable. Even the weather was perfect. With a great mix of adventure and relaxation, there is definitely something for everyone on this trip.

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Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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Wildly exceeded expectations

Submitted December 2019

By Michael

From Bridgewater CT

Every ingredient worked perfectly: outstanding responsible leaders, challenging and varied activities, compatible traveling partners, fine accommodations and great meals.

User submitted media
On a bike ride

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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New Zealand:land and sea

Submitted December 2019

By the happy biker

From Calgary,Alberta, Canada

Just returned from a recent Backroads trip to New Zealand. What an amazing continent and oh what an adventure. An experience that will always be with me.. Although I am hardly a water person bad experience in childhood and come from a landlocked cold place (Alberta prairies)making it very hard for me to take on water experiences; the Backroads staff and all the venues worked hard to make me feel safe and cared for. While whitewater rafting would not be an experience of choice seeing Rotorua from the water was magical and soon the bumps which I cursed openly became a beautiful portal from which to view the magnificent vegetation of the rainforest. The most cherished memories I have of New Zealand are of me on a bike exploring the hills near Hawkes Bay and cruising near beautiful and famous vineyards in that area. I feel like I have explored the North Islands jewels on land and sea and returned awed and inspired. Thank you, sincerely, Ida Switzer

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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From $7,999 /person

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Dates & Prices

Click on dates for pricing, itinerary variations (if any) and to book your trip. Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.

Your guest & room selections

1 adult

1 room, 1 bed

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E-bikes are limited in this region—select your bike early for the best availability.

Please Select a Group Size

Group size is required to show per-person pricing. Your group size can be approximate and can change.

Want to learn more about this trip?

Request a Detailed Itinerary! Complete with descriptions of each day, tips on travel arrangements, regional highlights and more, it’s the perfect tool to help you choose. You can easily share it with friends too!

Download & Share

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Backroads provides flexible booking policies so that you can plan your vacation with complete peace of mind.

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From $7,999 /person

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