New Zealand Trails

5-21 day, all-inclusive, guided adventure tours

Intro Map Itinerary Reviews Dates Activity Level FAQs

New Zealand North Island Tour - Sweet North

Another New Zealand is calling... Complete your New Zealand North Island hiking adventure.

The North Island is a world apart from the South – equally spectacular but with its own unique magic, blending breathtaking natural beauty with a deep connection to Māori culture and traditions. On the Sweet North trip – our New Zealand North Island tour, you’ll delve deep into Māoritanga (Māori culture), hike through Tongariro National Park, kayak along the white sand coastline of Coromandel, and explore the magical glowworm caves of Waitomo.  

One of the most unforgettable parts of this trip will be your stay at Kohutapu Lodge. This exclusive cultural experience is something truly special – the kind of thing you’ll be talking about long after you’ve returned home. The Toe Toe whānau (family), who belong to the Ngāti Manawa Tribe, will be our hosts. When we arrive in Murupara, you’ll be welcomed onto a traditional Māori marae (meeting ground), where you’ll connect with rich cultural traditions that have been passed down through generations. You’ll spend the afternoon with the whānau, learning the intricate art of Māori weaving or trying your hand at the world-famous haka, and hearing authentic and personal stories that bring the culture and history of this land to life. In the evening, you’ll feast on a traditionalhangi, cooked in the earth, and enjoy storytelling around the fire. This rare and deeply personal connection to Māori culture is a true privilege, and it’s an honour for us to share it with you. 

While the South Island is known for its glacial lakes and rugged peaks, the North is a playground of bubbling geothermal pools, lush green forests, and golden beaches. Whether you’re joining us just for the Sweet North or pairing it with one of our South Island trips, this journey promises the perfect balance between culture, activity, and natural wonders 

After all, if you’ve come all this way, why see just half the story? 

Activity Level 2 to 3: Designed for you to have maximum flexibility. You can scale your activity level up to a 3 or down to a 2 every day so you can enjoy New Zealand at a pace that's right for you. Walk on well-formed tracks and enjoy a mixture of day walks and activities that showcase the best of New Zealand. Click here for a full breakdown of the Sweet North activity level.

Trip StyleThroughout the trip you’ll enjoy delicious home-cooked and restaurant meals to fuel you for the adventurous days of walking and activities, and sleep soundly at night in comfortable ensuite accommodation that we have chosen specifically for their fantastic locations.

Click here to download the Sweet North itinerary

5 Days

North
ISLAND

map
Starts

Auckland

Finishes

Auckland

Activity level 2 - 3

Accommodation

Very comfortable lodging

Price
NZD$7099 NZD$7099 AUD$5699 USD$3699.00 +tax GBP£3299 CAD$4999.00 +tax

Enquire Book now

Sweet North Route Map

SN MAP6

Sweet North Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day

1

Arrive Auckland
Hike Waiomu Kauri Grove

Includes

Lunch
Dinner

Meals
Activities
Walking Sightseeing Wildlife
Accommodation

Coromandel

Impressive kauri trees on a North Island tour to Coromandel
Hiking New Zealand North Island along the Kauri Grove Track, Coromandel 1. Coromandel coastline views

Day 1 – Arrive Auckland and explore Waiomu Kauri Grove

Welcome to the North Island, New Zealand's beating, cultural heart. A vibrant and diverse landscape made up of active geothermal areas, pristine beaches, immense forests and subterranean wonders. After meeting your guide and fellow travellers in Auckland, we’ll head east to the Kauri forests of the Coromandel region.

Waiomu Kauri Grove

One of the largest and longest-living trees in the world, the New Zealand Kauri forests are an impressive site to behold. Kauri trees can live for over 1000 years and reach heights of 60-70 metres. This morning we'll explore the Waiomu Kauri Grove and get up close to these giants of the forest. This afternoon we'll head further east to the golden sand beaches of the Coromandel. We'll spend the night in the coastal resort town of Whangamata.

Tonight we stay at South Pacific Motel, Whangamata*

Day

2

Cathedral Cove
Kayak & Explore Coromandel

Includes

Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Meals
Activities
Sightseeing Kayaking
Accommodation

COROMANDEL

kayak day on sweet north tour
Travel New Zealand North Island with kayaking in Cathedral Cove Cathedral Cove kayaking on New Zealand North Island tours

Day 2 – Kayak Cathedral Cove & Explore Hot Water Beach

This morning we’ll travel a short distance along the Coromandel coastline to Hahei and get ready to paddle through tantalisingly turquoise waters out to Cathedral Cove. We’ll then take some time to explore the world-famous Hot Water Beach.

Kayak Cathedral Cove

We’ll paddle our way through the Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve exploring ancient sea caves and rock gardens along the way. Our destination is Cathedral Cove, accessible only by foot, boat or kayak, this natural rock archway joins two secluded coves shaded by magnificent pohutukawa trees.

Explore Hot Water Beach

This afternoon we head to world-renowned Hot Water Beach, famous for the warm geothermal waters that sit just under the sand. Enjoy a stroll along this gorgeous coastline and dip your toes in the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean. If the tides are right, you can experience the natural hot springs bubbling up through the sand, a true-blue Kiwi experience.

Tonight we stay at South Pacific Motel, Whangamata again*

Day

3

Rotorua
REDWOODS HIKE & MAORI CULTURE EXPERIENCE

Includes

Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Meals
Activities
Walking Geothermal MaoriCulture
Accommodation

Kohutapu Lodge

2. Guests walking through Redwoods
Te Puia Poi Sweet North geyser

Day 3 – Redwoods Hike and Kohutapu Lodge & Tribal Tours Maori Culture Experience

Today we’ll head to the cultural heart of our countryThis morning we’ll walk among the towering Californian Redwoods in the Whakarewarewa Forest in Rotorua. In the afternoon, we’ll head to Murupara and Kohutapu Lodge for an authentic and deeply personal Māori cultural experience with the Ngati Manawa tribe

Redwoods Hike 

When we arrive in Rotorua, we’ll hike through the stunning Redwoods in Whakarewarewa Forest. These towering Californian giants create a peaceful and shaded path, making it an easy and enjoyable way to stretch your legs and take in the beauty of this unique forest setting.  

Kohutapu Lodge & Tribal Tours Maori Culture Experience 

This afternoon, we will head to Murupara and Kohutapu Lodge, where a once-in-a-lifetime, truly authentic cultural experience awaits you.  

The Toe Toe whānau (family), who belong to the Ngāti Manawa Tribe, will be your hosts. Their whakapapa (family tree) stretches back 400 years before the Great Migration, to the first inhabitants of this tribal land. When we arrive, you’ll be welcomed onto a traditional Māori marae (meeting ground) and immersed in the rich traditions of Māoritanga. You’ll spend the afternoon with the whānau, learning the intricate art of Māori weaving or trying your hand at the world-famous haka, and hearing authentic and personal stories that bring the culture and history of this land to life.  

Tonight, we’ll stay on the tranquil shores of Lake Aniwhenua, where you’ll be warmly welcomed at Kohutapu Lodge. Offering modern and inviting accommodation, this special place sets the scene for an unforgettable evening. You’ll enjoy a traditional hangi feast, cooked in the earth, followed by storytelling around the fire and some of the best stargazing around. 

This rare and deeply personal connection to Māori culture is a true privilege, and it’s an honour for us to share it with you. 

Tonight, we stay at Kohutapu Lodge* 

Day

4

Tongariro National Park
Explore Tongariro National Park

Includes

Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Meals
Activities
Hiking
Accommodation

Tongariro National Park

6 tangariro national park hikes
6 tangariro crossing hiking nz View of Mt Ngauruhoe when hiking in New Zealand North Island

Day 4 – Explore Tongariro National Park

Tongariro is New Zealand’s oldest national park and boasts dual World Heritage site status, acknowledged for both its cultural and natural significance. Today you'll explore this moonlike landscape and discover the beauty and wonder of this incredible National Park. 

We'll spend the afternoon on one of our favourite sections of the Tongariro Crossing before exploring the heart of the National Park itself. You'll experience the diverse landscape, have options to explore other short walks and learn of the park's history and cultural significance from your expert local guides. This afternoon you'll have the option to walk to Taranaki Falls or enjoy some free time to explore the National Park and Whakapapa Village. 

Tonight we stay at Plateau Lodge National Park*

Day

5

Waitomo Caves
Glowworms

Includes

Breakfast
Lunch

Meals
Activities
Caving Sightseeing
Accommodation

Today we finish in Auckland

Spellbound Cave Tour on your New Zealand North Island itinerary
New Zealand North Island at Spellbound Cave Hiking New Zealand North Island to see glow worms in Spellbound Cave

Day 5 –Waitomo Caves & Finish in Auckland

It may be the last day of your Sweet North trip, but it’ll be one to remember as we explore the hidden depths of Waitomo, marvelling at the limestone formations, crystal tapestries and thousands of glowworms that illuminate the cave system. We’ll then make our way back to Auckland where we’ll say our farewells. If you’re heading down to the South Island to join us on another trip, we’ll help with a smooth transition.

Spellbound Waitomo Caves

The last activity of our trip is a truly magical one! We’ll visit two vastly different caves and learn all about their formation. Stepping onto a raft, you’ll be transported into a unique environment where it seems the night sky is always shining. With glow worms galore you will marvel at the constellations they seem to create! In the next cave you will slowly wander through whilst gazing at these wonderful creatures that are only found here in New Zealand!

Finish in Auckland

We’ll enjoy our last lunch together before hitting the road back to Auckland, allowing plenty of time to happily reminisce about the last five days. New friends and wonderful experiences have had their share in creating a tonne of memories to last you all the way home and beyond.

We’re happy to drop you at the airport or at your Auckland accommodation. We recommend that you combine this trip with one of our South Island itineraries to enjoy the complete New Zealand experience. The Sweet North trip works particularly well in conjunction with the Pure South, if you're short on time, or any of our longer South Island trips if you really want to leave no stone unturned.

*For logistical reasons, we may make small changes to our itineraries or accommodation from time to time.

Don’t take our word for it...

Ali Tooze 1000
Without a doubt this was the best organised travel experience of my life. Exciting on paper, but the reality delivered so much more. This experience will stay with me for a very long time, I hope forever, and that isn’t just down to the pure raw beauty of New Zealand, it’s also the way this trip was delivered. New Zealand trails is sold as real New Zealand with real New Zealanders and that was exactly what we got. I feel privileged to have felt such a strong connection to the culture, history and spirituality of this country and I thank our guide and New Zealand Trails for bringing that to this trip.
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Ali Tooze - April 2024

Star
Barbara Bauman 1001
I loved, loved, loved my opportunity to travel to New Zealand. You have a beautiful and amazing country that I highly respect. The beauty that surrounded us each day took my breath away. My photos will only capture a small percentage of the natural beauty that exists. I enjoyed having the itineraries laid out and planned to a "T". Kudos to New Zealand Trails! Keep up the good work!
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Barbara Bauman - December 23

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Customer rating:

Star

4.6

Out of 5 (from 389)
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Photos of the Sweet North

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Frequently asked questions

It's very important to us that you have all your questions answered about our Sweet North trip. We’ve collected some of the questions we get asked most often and answered them below. Or visit our general FAQ page here for more answers!

And if you still can’t find the answers you need, give us a call or send us an email and we’ll help you out!

How fit do I need to be for the Sweet North?

What is the accommodation like on the Sweet North?

What time does the Sweet North trip start and finish?

What's not included on my Sweet North tour?

What's included in my Sweet North tour?

What hikes are included in the Sweet North trip?

What activities are included on the Sweet North trip?

Will I have WiFi or internet access throughout the trip?

Is there electricity at all of the places we stay on the Sweet North trip?

Tell me about your safety standards

What kind of people will be on my Sweet North trip?

Do you need any outdoors experience for the Sweet North trip?

How many people will be on my trip?

Why do you run the Sweet North in two different directions?

How do I get between the North and South Island if I'm joining you on a Sweet North and a South Island trip?

What does going on a guided trip entail?

Can you help with pre/post-trip accommodation and flights?

How do we get around New Zealand? What happens with my luggage?

How much time will we spend in the vehicle?

More frequently asked questions

Activity Level

The Sweet North is an activity level 2 to 3. Designed for you to have maximum flexibility. You can scale your activity level up to a 3 or down to a 2 every day so you can enjoy New Zealand at a pace that's right for you. Walk on well-formed tracks and enjoy a mixture of day walks and activities that showcase the best of New Zealand.

Elevation Maps & Hike Information

Tour dates

With a rich culture and fascinating history, New Zealand's North Island is remarkably different from the South but equally impressive. Over 5 incredible days discover the diverse landscape, from golden sand beaches to huge inland lakes, sleeping volcanoes and otherworldly cave systems. On a journey that epitomises the best of the North Island, you’ll enjoy legendary Kiwi hospitality, delicious meals and very comfortable accommodations.

This trip is designed as the perfect addition to any of our South Island trips, although it also stands alone if you’re short on time.

Check out trip dates below to find your ideal time frame. Places on our trips fill up quickly so keep an eye on availability here too.

Thinking of visiting New Zealand in the next year or so?

We only run a limited number of departures each year and as you can see below, they fill up months in advance! Most of our guests lock in their trips at least a year out from travelling so they don't miss out on their preferred dates. If you have specific dates in mind, let’s chat!

2025

Sweet North
21 Jan 2025 - 25 Jan 2025
Full - Sold out.
Full
Sold out.
Sweet North
28 Jan 2025 - 02 Feb 2025
Nearly Full - Only one spot left!
Book now
Only one spot left!
Sweet North
04 Feb 2025 - 08 Feb 2025
Full - Sold out.
Full
Sold out.
Sweet North
11 Feb 2025 - 15 Feb 2025
Full - Sold out.
Full
Sold out.
Sweet North
18 Feb 2025 - 22 Feb 2025
Nearly Full - Only two spots left!
Book now
Only two spots left!
Sweet North
25 Feb 2025 - 01 Mar 2025
Nearly Full - Only three spots left!
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Only three spots left!
Sweet North
04 Mar 2025 - 08 Mar 2025
Full - Sold out.
Full
Sold out.
Sweet North
11 Mar 2025 - 15 Mar 2025
Full - Sold out.
Full
Sold out.
Sweet North
18 Mar 2025 - 22 Mar 2025
Full - Sold out.
Full
Sold out.
Sweet North
18 Mar 2025 - 22 Mar 2025
Filling Up - Only three spots left!
Book now
Only three spots left!
Sweet North
28 Oct 2025 - 01 Nov 2025
Nearly Full - Only six spots left!
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Only six spots left!
Sweet North
04 Nov 2025 - 08 Nov 2025
Filling Up
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Sweet North
18 Nov 2025 - 22 Nov 2025
Filling Up
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Sweet North
25 Nov 2025 - 29 Nov 2025
Great
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Sweet North
02 Dec 2025 - 06 Dec 2025
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Sweet North
16 Dec 2025 - 20 Dec 2025
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2026

Sweet North
06 Jan 2026 - 10 Jan 2026
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Sweet North
13 Jan 2026 - 17 Jan 2026
Filling Up - Private departure.
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Private departure.
Sweet North
20 Jan 2026 - 24 Jan 2026
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Sweet North
27 Jan 2026 - 31 Jan 2026
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Sweet North
03 Feb 2026 - 07 Feb 2026
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Sweet North
24 Feb 2026 - 28 Feb 2026
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Sweet North
03 Mar 2026 - 07 Mar 2026
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Sweet North
10 Mar 2026 - 14 Mar 2026
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Sweet North
17 Mar 2026 - 21 Mar 2026
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Sweet North
20 Oct 2026 - 24 Oct 2026
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Sweet North
03 Nov 2026 - 07 Nov 2026
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Sweet North
17 Nov 2026 - 21 Nov 2026
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Sweet North
01 Dec 2026 - 05 Dec 2026
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2027

Sweet North
05 Jan 2027 - 09 Jan 2027
Great
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Sweet North
19 Jan 2027 - 23 Jan 2027
Great
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Sweet North
02 Feb 2027 - 06 Feb 2027
Great
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Sweet North
16 Feb 2027 - 20 Feb 2027
Great
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Sweet North
02 Mar 2027 - 06 Mar 2027
Great
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Sweet North
16 Mar 2027 - 20 Mar 2027
Great
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Sweet North
02 Nov 2027 - 06 Nov 2027
Great
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Sweet North
09 Nov 2027 - 13 Nov 2027
Great
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Sweet North
30 Nov 2027 - 04 Dec 2027
Great
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Sweet North
07 Dec 2027 - 11 Dec 2027
Great
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2028

Sweet North
11 Jan 2028 - 15 Jan 2028
Great
Book now
Sweet North
25 Jan 2028 - 29 Jan 2028
Great
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Sweet North
08 Feb 2028 - 12 Feb 2028
Great
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Sweet North
22 Feb 2028 - 26 Feb 2028
Great
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Sweet North
07 Mar 2028 - 11 Mar 2028
Great
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Sweet North
21 Mar 2028 - 25 Mar 2028
Great
Book now
See all available dates

Sweet North – ready to book?

Ready to start your New Zealand adventure?

Discover hidden islands, bubbling thermal wonderlands, impressive forests and stunning lakes on this 5-day adventure.

What’s included:

Local guides, small groups

All food (except where noted on itinerary), transportation and activities

All inclusive

All accommodation

NZD$7099 AUD$5699 USD$3699.00+tax GBP£3299 NZD$7099 CAD$4999.00+tax
per person (twin or double share)

new zealand north island adventure with new zealand trails2

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