The New Zealand Great Walk Adventure - North - Activity Level Guide
How fit do you need to be for The New Zealand Great Walk Adventure - North?
The New Zealand Great Walk Adventure – North trip is an activity level 3-4* trip and is designed for those who want a hiking-focused tour. With two New Zealand guides on all walks and activities, you'll be able to scale your activity level up to a 4 and down to a 3 every day so you can enjoy New Zealand at a pace that’s right for you.
*Activity Level 3. You love staying active on your holiday and know that travel isn't a race, it's just as much about the journey as the destination! Fresh air, experiencing new activities with your guides and ending the day with a delicious meal and great conversation leave you feeling invigorated.
*Activity Level 4. You know sometimes the best views need to be earned and you love a wee bit of a challenge. You're comfortable spending a good portion of the day on your feet exploring well-formed trails with your guides and moving toward your goal.
You can view a day-by-day breakdown of the activities and hikes below, and if you have any questions at all get in touch, we love to chat!
Day 1: Matahuru Valley Private Hike
Today we’ll start our North Island adventure with a private walk in Matahuru Valley. Showcasing the stunning scenery of Waikato and its picturesque rolling green hills today you’ll have exclusive access to explore this incredible property.
Day 2: Pureora Forest & Bridal Veil Falls
This morning we’ll explore the Bridal Veil Falls. After a picturesque walk, we’ll emerge from the forest to be rewarded with spectacular views of the 55m high falls.
This afternoon as we make our way toward Tongariro National Park we’ll make a stop to stretch our legs on two scenic walks in Pureora Forest and enjoy the lush greenery of the North Island’s native forest.
Day 3: The Tongariro Crossing
Today we’ll hike a trail widely regarded as the best day walk in the world. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is our second New Zealand Great Walk of the trip and takes us on a journey through Tongariro National Park's moonlike, volcanic landscape. After a full briefing from our expert local guides, we’ll spend the day on the trail, carrying snacks and a picnic lunch to ensure we’re well-fueled and learning from our guides about our fascinating surroundings.
Day 4: The Whanganui River Journey & Bridge to Nowhere
Today we’re in for a treat as we spend a full day exploring one of New Zealand's most unique Great Walks – the Whanganui River Journey. After an exhilarating jetboat ride up the river, we’ll explore Whanganui National Park and discover the Bridge to Nowhere on a scenic hike through some of New Zealand’s most pristine native rainforest. With over five hours to explore this stunning National Park, you'll learn from your guides about the flora, fauna and history of this Great Walk and explore its twists and turns in detail.
Day 5: Egmont National Park & Waitomo Caves
This morning we’ll hike in Taranaki/Egmont National Park. With stunning views of Mt Taranaki’s iconic peak above us, we’ll extensively explore Egmont National Park and marvel at its natural wonders. Starting from Dawson Falls we'll climb steadily toward Jacksons Lookout where you'll enjoy stunning views across the National Park and of Mt Taranaki itself.
This afternoon we’ll explore the hidden depths of the Waitomo Caves and marvel at the impressive limestone formations, crystal tapestries and thousands of glowworms that illuminate the caves.
Day 6: Nikau & Kaniwhaniwha Caves Walk
Today we’ll get moving in Pirongia Forest Park and explore the Nikau and Kaniwhaniwha Caves. Following the stream out on this 2-3 hour return loop, we’ll explore native forest and an impressive network of limestone caves.
