Sweet North - Activity Level Guide - Trips Departing after April 30th, 2027

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: Spellbound Waitomo Caves 

We'll visit two vastly different caves and learn all about their formation, exploring the hidden depths of Waitomo and marvelling at the limestone formations, crystal tapestries and thousands of glowworms that illuminate the cave system. 

Day 2: Taranaki Falls Track 

We'll spend the day hiking the Taranaki Falls Track in Tongariro National Park, which boasts dual World Heritage status for both its cultural and environmental significance. Enjoy stunning views and tumbling waterfalls as we follow a well-maintained trail through the varied landscapes of tussock, alpine shrublands, and beech forest. 

Day 3: Spa Park to Huka Falls, then Kohutapu Lodge Maori Culture Experience 

This morning, we'll start the day with a scenic walk beside the powerful Waikato River, taking in the natural geothermal waters of Spa Park before following a well-maintained trail through native bush, past beautiful river views and the turquoise waters of the Waikato, all the way to the spectacular Huka Falls. 

This afternoon we'll head to Murupara where you'll be welcomed by the Toe Toe whānau (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, joining your hosts for a series of interactive cultural workshops, where you may learn about traditional Māori healing practices, weaving, and the meaning and significance of the world famous haka. In the evening, you'll feast on a traditional hāngī, cooked in the earth, and enjoy authentic and personal stories that bring the culture and history of this land to life. 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: Waimangu Valley Walk & Kayak 

This morning we'll walk through the Waimangu Valley, a natural volcanic system home to volcanic craters, enormous hot springs, bubbling mud pools, erupting geysers, and rare plant and bird life.  

This afternoon, we'll gear up for a gentle kayak paddling to the steaming cliffs of Lake Rotomahana, the final resting place of the legendary Pink & White Terraces, learning about the local history and legacy of the Mt Tarawera eruptions along the way. 

Day 5: Redwoods Waitawa Walk & Maungatautari 

This morning we'll enjoy a walk through the world famous Redwood (Whakarewarewa) forest, offering the opportunity to see the native New Zealand silver fern set amongst some giants of the forest.  

This afternoon, we'll explore Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari, a remarkable eco-sanctuary where you can explore over 5km of forest trails at your own pace. This predator-free haven is home to some of New Zealand's rarest birds and plants, offering a glimpse of the landscape as it once was. Enjoy towering ancient trees, birdsong, and keep an eye out for native species like the cheeky kākā or friendly pītoitoi.