10 Walking Tours in North Island That You Shouldn't Miss

August 11, 2021 Elouise Mccaul

Discover the best top things to do in North Island, New Zealand including Manea Footprints of Kupe Cultural Experience, Waiheke Island Art Walk, Mornin Lakes Tour, Nocturnal adventure Glow-worm tour, Ziplining Forest Experience - The Ultimate Canopy Tour Rotorua, Off the Beaten Track - Glowworm Caving Adventure Tour in Waitomo, Full-Day Milford Sound Hiking Tour with Cruise, Museum of New Zealand Te Papa: Gallipoli Early Bird Entry, Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves Day Trip from Auckland, Kapiti Island Eco day trip to the stunning nature reserve on Kapiti Island.
Restaurants in North Island

1. Manea Footprints of Kupe Cultural Experience

41 State Highway 12, Opononi 0473, New Zealand Manea, Footprints Of Kupe
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5.0 based on 8 reviews

Manea Footprints of Kupe is a 75-minute multisensory journey of guided storytelling – through art, taonga (cultural treasures), film, performance, digital interaction and the splendour of Hokianga’s natural surroundings. Manea: Footprints of Kupe offers you a unique cultural encounter, journeying into te ao Māori, the Māori world. Our cultural and heritage centre on the shores of the spectacular Hokianga Harbour is your first stop on this journey. Here, you will feel the warmth of our welcome as we share our stories and traditions.

Inclusions: Manea Footprints of Kupe admission

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Reviewed By Thomsb

This very née facility and the guided tour provided is. Rilliant and worth. The price. Very educational and a spectacular show in a very modern theatre.

2. Waiheke Island Art Walk

Waiheke Community Art Gallery, 2 Korora Road, Oneroa, Waiheke Island 1081, New Zealand Terra & Tide
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5.0 based on 9 reviews

Waiheke Island is an artsy and creative place. On this tour you’ll discover the best of its arts scene, and meet talented artists, with the help of an expert local guide. Here's just some of what we'll do: Visit art galleries in Oneroa, including an artists’ collective and the Community Art Gallery. Tour the local sculpture park and learn about this intriguing array of outdoor art. Visit sculptors and painters in their studios - and even get to meet an artisan shoemaker! Have lunch (included in the price) at an artist's home. Walk through the Atawhai-Whenua Forest & Bird Reserve to the Ferry Terminal or Community Gallery where we finish. Our Art Walk takes approximately five hours and is done at a very leisurely pace so you can enjoy both the art and the scenery around you. You will come away feeling inspired by what you have seen, the artists you have met and the beauty you have enjoyed while wandering through bush tracks and local roads.

Inclusions: Fantastic scenic walk with expert guiding and interpretation, Lunch at artist’s home and studio

Exclusions: Ferry fares

Reviewed By randomasyalike

We had an absolutely fabulous day out on the water with Gabrielle and Bruce. The boat is gorgeous, with lots of room to move around and relax, the food was amazing, and our hosts took really good care of us. Our trip was to watch the America's Cup with a group of friends, and we swam, ate, had a good old singalong and watched the racing... it could not have been a more perfect day. We'll definitely be booking again.

3. Mornin Lakes Tour

1167 Fenton Street, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand Real Rotorua
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5.0 based on 32 reviews

Morning Lakes Tour – 8.30am to 12.30pm daily ($85) By far the best lakes tour in Rotorua, small group, locations and value. With 18 lakes in the Rotorua area our Lake Morning tour provides a driver-guided exploration of some of the highlights of New Zealand’s Lake District: Hamurana springs, Okere falls, lake Rotoiti, the Blue and Green lakes and lake Tarawera. Explore our favourite scenic spots and natural springs on foot. Take photographs at your leisure and learn about Rotorua’s colourful culture and history from our knowledgeable and friendly guide. • Highlights • Small group, relaxed atmosphere. •  Informative, outgoing driver-guide. • Breath-taking scenery. • No queues or entrances fees. • Half day tour.

Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by air-conditioned minivan, All Fees and Taxes

Exclusions: Lunch

Reviewed By 845larissae

This was an amazing experience, stephen was very knowledgeable and we learnt a lot, the sights he showed us were spectacular which brought home the miracle of nature. The best hot chocolate we have ever tasted and shortbread was a great ending to a magical night

4. Nocturnal adventure Glow-worm tour

1167 Fenton Street, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand Real Rotorua
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5.0 based on 190 reviews

Glow-worms are the highlight of any night-time stroll in New Zealand, and when found in abundance they can be as breathtaking as our clearest night sky. Join our experienced guides on a trip into the native bush to witness this phenomenon for yourself. Learn about the life-cycle of this fascinating insect, experience New Zealand’s wildlife by night and top off this stellar evening by relaxing under the stars. An unique experience for all your senses. Highlights • Glow-worm, waterfalls, wildlife and star gazing. • New Zealand Native Forest - all by the cover of darkness. • Small group, relaxed atmosphere.

Inclusions: Driver/guide, Air-conditioned vehicle, Light refreshments

Exclusions: Nothing

Reviewed By triniboyinNZ

Stephen gave us a very knowledgeable, exclusive and friendly tour of major highlights around Rotorua. We were really appreciative of the information and the hot chocolate :-) It had amazing scenery , views of the lakes and great walks.

5. Ziplining Forest Experience - The Ultimate Canopy Tour Rotorua

Rotorua Canopy Tours, 147 Fairy Springs Road, Fairy Springs, Rotorua 3015, New Zealand Rotorua Canopy Tours
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5.0 based on 1,008 reviews

See New Zealand’s one and only cliff walk, built around a volcanic rock, floating staircases and a 400m tandem Zip-line that you can race your loved ones down…just to name a few! An amazing engineering feat that allows the exploration of an ancient indigenous forest! You will be taken to another world, full of ancient giants and lifeforms you can’t see anywhere else in the world! Since we opened in 2012 we have been protecting this special place and when you come along, you will be too! A portion of your entry goes straight back to our conservation project to help us continue to rescue and look after this magic place. We take photos for you and they are FREE after your tour via an email link.You are welcome to take as many videos and photos as you like too – you’ll be wanting to share this experience with everyone!!

Inclusions: Safety gear included, Amazing Kiwi guides, Shuttles included, Complementary photos, Snacks, All Fees and Taxes, Wet weather and warm gear (if needed)

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Reviewed By Jamie_ratlidge

Such a cool tour and so much fun! The different types a zip lines keep it interesting and different every time! You get to race people down and see some amazing views at the same time! Our tour guides Luke and Tenaya were so friendly and funny! They definitely made the experience that much better! I would absolutely recommend the ultimate tour to anyone and everyone!

6. Off the Beaten Track - Glowworm Caving Adventure Tour in Waitomo

1199 Oparure Road, Te Kuiti 3985, New Zealand Glowing Adventures
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5.0 based on 154 reviews

The top rated, most intimate, and most personalised glow worm cave tour in Waitomo. Our awesome Waitomo adventure is tucked away “off the beaten track” on our family farm and we LOVE it that way and so do our guests. Our “Glowing” Highlights • Amazing glow worm displays! • Just the right amount of adventure • Away from the crowds • Small group sizes • Cameras welcome • Authentic eco experience • Family owned and operated • Photos, tea, coffee and biscuits included • #1 Trip Advisor rated tour in the Waitomo District

Inclusions: See the caves just as nature intended. All caving equipment and warm clothing including: thermal top, thermal pants, fleece top, shorts, gumboots, socks, helmet and headlamp. A local guide with a deep connection to the caves and a wealth of information to share. Tea, coffee, and a snack. An email with awesome photos of your adventure. Proper Kiwi hospitality!

Exclusions: We can not pick up or drop off. There is no public transport so you will need to have your own transport to 1199 Oparure Road.

Reviewed By 407clareb

Our personalised tour was one of the highlights of NZ! Learned a lot about the biology of the caves and the glow worms themselves - nature is amazing! Ash was very friendly, hilarious and informative and made it an unforgettable experience. Highly recommended!

7. Full-Day Milford Sound Hiking Tour with Cruise

Fiordland Community Events Centre, 20-22 Luxmore Drive, Te Anau 9600, New Zealand Trips & Tramps
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5.0 based on 217 reviews

Enjoy a friendly, small group (maximum 15 people) day excursion to Milford Sound from Te Anau, including a small boat cruise along the full length of the fiord and out to the Tasman Sea. Our relaxed timetable ensures plenty of opportunities for guests to enjoy short walks, photographic stops and exploration with the nature guide. Plus, from November to April guests can select 2 ½ hours hiking (unguided) on the renowned Routeburn Track to Key Summit.

Inclusions: Afternoon or morning tea, Local driver/guide, Te Anau accommodation pickup and drop-off (if advised), Sightseeing boat cruise, Guided and Self-Guided Walking tours, Modern air conditioned minivan (max 15)

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified, Queenstown pick ups - the tour departs from Te Anau

Reviewed By mike61119

Fabulous trip to Milford Sound today. Andrew's commentary and knowledge of the area was outstanding. Would definitely use Trips and Tramps again. Highly recommend for those looking to book in Fiordland. ????????????????????

8. Museum of New Zealand Te Papa: Gallipoli Early Bird Entry

55 Cable Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011, New Zealand Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
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4.9 based on 16 reviews

Beat the crowds and explore this award-winning exhibitions before opening. Explore Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War with the peace and stillness this subject matter deserves by entering the exhibit half an hour before the public. Te Papa has joined forces with Weta Workshop to create an exhibition like no other. After a short introduction from a Te Papa Host, you will wander freely at your own pace through this gallery. Garnering international acclaim and various awards, this space is best experienced before the museum's doors are opened for general admission. * See eight extraordinary New Zealanders captured frozen in time on a monumental scale - 2.4 times human size * Learn about the battles that took place in this culturally-defining event * Discover more about the ANZAC story through 3D maps and projections, miniatures, models, dioramas, and a range of interactive experiences.

Inclusions: Professional guide, Local taxes

Exclusions: Entrance fees to short-term paid exhibitions

Reviewed By chachaBK

love coming here with kids everytime in wellington always discovering new stuff! take time in the nature room same level as the anzac display love the giant squid the pinball rainfall display and the into nature video screen that records us moving then plays back 4 times cant explain just awesome! also love how the moa bones shadow moves every so often. also love nature walk outside with swing bridge and pretend glow worms

9. Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves Day Trip from Auckland

Auckland Scenic Tours
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4.9 based on 687 reviews

Join this tour to visit two of New Zealand’s most famous attractions, Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Caves, in one easy day trip from Auckland. Be fascinated as the magical world of Hobbiton comes to life and take photos in front of your favourite places like the Hobbit Holes, the Shire and the Green Dragon Inn. Then journey to the World Famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves and be captivated by the thousands of magical glowworms twinkling in the Grottos, the stalactites and stalagmites as you glide silently through the cave by boat. Marvel at the stunning scenery en route as we journey off the motorways into the real hinterland of New Zealand. All admission fees and lunch included.

Inclusions: Small-group tour (maximum of 14), Kiwi café-style lunch , Local driver/guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off from downtown Auckland City, Local taxes, Admission ticket: Hobbiton and Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified

Reviewed By emilyz906

Auckland Scenic Tours was outstanding. I really appreciate their no cancellation policy as I was only there for a few days and had wanted to organise a trip to Hobbiton. David, my guide for the day was excellent. We definitely took the scenic route and I got to see some stunning scenery. Thank you for the great experience and I would definitely recommend them to family and friends wanting to explore Auckland and beyond.

10. Kapiti Island Eco day trip to the stunning nature reserve on Kapiti Island

Kapiti Boating Club, Kapiti Road, Paraparaumu Beach, Paraparaumu 5032, New Zealand Kapiti Island Eco Experience
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4.9 based on 76 reviews

Experience a day trip of a life time to one of New Zealand's conversation jewels; Kapiti Island. Soak up the beauty, hear the stories of the Ngati Toa Maori people, spot whales and sea birds, native birds in their natural environment free of predators such as rats, stoats and possums. Feel like you have been taken back in time as you walk through stunning native bush spotting rare native birds found nowhere else in the world.  You will see birds which are on the brink of extinction. Walk the tracks and summit the island, sit on the beach in peace and admire the rugged coastline or swim in the Kapiti Marine reserve, picnic on the lawn or down the beach.  The  choice is yours!

Inclusions: GST (Goods and Services Tax), Landing and facility fees, Local taxes, National Park fees

Exclusions: You can purchase a yummy lunch from us which will keep you going. Sandwich or Roll a slice and Muffin along with a nice cold water., Just let us know in heaps of time, Food and drinks, Lunch

Reviewed By cillab2017

We had an amazing team building adventure today on Kapiti Island. Coops our Captain and sea kayak guide was awesome! Very knowledgeable and passionate about this beautiful island. We explored the island by kayak and then walked up the Trig Track and and back down the Wilkinson Track. A fantastic day out. Couldn’t fault it!

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