Sweet North – Activity Level Guide
What level of fitness is required for the Sweet North trip?
The Sweet North is an activity level 2-3* trip and is 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.
Activity Level 2*. These boots are made for walking...but not too far. You enjoy the outdoors and like to explore, but at a pace that's right for you. You like to take your time so you can enjoy your surroundings, learn from your guides and soak in the experience.
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.
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: Karangahake Windows Walk
The Karangahake Windows Walk takes us through gold mining history and dramatic natural scenery. This gentle track leads us past the ruins of the Talisman battery and through old gold mining tunnels. Along the way, 'windows' cut into the rock offer striking views down into the gorge below. This afternoon we'll head to the golden sand beaches of the Coromandel.
Day 2: Sea Kayak to Cathedral Cove
Paddle out to the world famous Cathedral Cove (easily the most iconic destination in the Coromandel). In very stable 2 person kayaks, exploring the coastline at a leisurely pace is the aim for the day.
Day 3: Hike Mauao Summit Walk
This morning we’ll hike the Mount Maunganui / Mauao Summit Track. It’s a steady climb on a well-formed path, and you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the Bay of Plenty, golden sand beaches, and the harbour below. Mauao, which translates to 'caught in the morning light' is a sacred mountain, rich in Māori history and legend.
This afternoon we’ll head east to Murupara where you’ll be welcomed by the Toe Toe whanau (family) 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 traditional hangi, 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.
Day 4: Explore Tongariro National Park
Today we'll explore the best of Tongariro National Park. Boasting dual World Heritage status for both its cultural and environmental significance, we'll explore the incredible diversity of its landscape, from tumbling waterfalls to moonlike volcanic valleys.
We'll hike to Soda Springs on the Tongariro Crossing. Regarded as one of the best day walks in the world, today we'll enjoy one of our favourite sections of this iconic Great Walk.
Day 5: Spellbound 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.
