Location: Waikato Region
Top Things to do in Waikato Region
Things to do in Waikato Region, North Island: The Best City Tours
Waikato (/ˈwaɪkɑːtɔː/ or /ˈwaɪkætoʊ/) is a local government region of the upper North Island of New Zealand. It covers the Waikato, Hauraki, Coromandel Peninsula, the northern King Country, much of the Taupo District, and parts of Rotorua District. It is governed by the Waikato Regional Council.
Restaurants in Waikato Region
1. Great Lake Trail Lake Taupo 2-Day Mountain Biking Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Western Bay Scenic 2 Day Mountain Biking Tour Ride the Great Lake Trail on this 2-day Grade 3 mountain biking tour, a perfect way to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Great Lake Taupo region. You will be biking the 19.5 km Kawakawa section (Orakau & K2K) on Day 1 and the 21km W2K section on Day 2. The Great Lake Trail is one of the most popular trails of the New Zealand Cycle Trail network. You will be riding along undulating pumice trails through native forest and wetlands, where the landscape unfolds to reveal stunning views across the water to the majestic volcanic mountains of the Tongariro National Park. Dramatic scenery combines with serene lake views, powerful waterfalls, native bird song and incredible trail quality to deliver an unforgettable experience.
Inclusions: Bike Hire & Transport Package, Bike hire, Helmet, Bike transfers to and from sections of the trail, Fully Guided Package, Professional guide, Packed lunch & refreshments, Lunch, Snacks, Bottled water, Coffee and/or Tea
Exclusions: Optional boat transfers at additional cost, Accommodation not included
Reviewed By Mangokidd93
The guide was amazing! I forgot his name...i even asked twice... he made our ride very pleasant and he was very professional. Taking photos for us and providing hot beverages and muffins. Teaching us tips with how to ride on the waves etc. I would highly recommend if you are active, to do the kayak to see the maori carving rock instead of boating, it made a lasting impression and it was super fun! Rode 20th January @1:30pm.(as i cannot remember the guides name sorry, you were amazing :D )
2. Hobbiton Tours From Auckland
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
For fans of The Lord of the Rings, the Hobbiton Movie Set is a must see attraction. Located at Matamata in Waikato, you can go on a magical tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set and check out the many Hobbit Holes and see where the movie was made. After your tour you can stop off at the The Shires Rest Cafe for some refreshments. Small group tour maximum of 6 people ensures personalized experience. Please bring your cameras ready to take photos and videos. Includes: Attraction Tickets Included Pick up and drop off from Auckland central Hotel pick up is offered (inner city hotels only) Airport pick-up is offered (outside Butterfly Creeks) Friendly Driver Local and experienced Tour Guide in the activities Travel in comfort of air conditioned deluxe van. Free Wifi on private deluxe van. Supplementary of drinks and snacks on board. Private Transportation. Duration: 7 to 7.5 hours (approximately)
Inclusions: Snacks, Bottled water, Air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi on board, Private transportation, Parking Fees, Fuel
Exclusions:
Reviewed By beachtraveler2
The tour guide was awful. She barely spoke through the entire tour. And when she did, her English was terrible. The tour is better described as a ride through the city with a silent driver. The driver could not even answer simple questions like what is the population of Auckland, or what is the elevation of Mt Eden, which was on the itinerary. One stop was a museum with a lot of Maori exhibits. I was surprised because it was listed on the itinerary as a military/war memorial. When I asked the driver why the discrepancy, she told me the museum had some Maori weapons. WOW....Later we found out there was an extensive military memorial outside of the building which she never pointed out to us. We passed a very old looking prison. I asked when it was built and the driver told me 1946, which looking at the architecture made no sense whatsoever. I looked it up on google later and found out it was original a military stockade built in 1856. This was an expensive private tour with just my wife and me. Avoid this tour!
3. Waitomo Glow Worm Cave Tours From Auckland
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Your visit to New Zealand isn’t complete until you see the marvellous Waitomo Caves. This unique cave system hosts the native glow worms (Arachnocampa luminosa). Take a relaxing boat tour through the caves to see this natural light show, as the tour guides tell you about the caves and their history. Includes: Pick up and drop off from Auckland central Attraction Tickets Included Hotel pick up is offered (inner city hotels only) Airport Pick-Up is offered (Outside Butterfly's Creek) Friendly Driver to transport you from Auckland. Experienced Tour Guide in the Activities. Travel in comfort of a private deluxe van. Free Wifi on private deluxe van. Supplementary of drinks and snacks on board. Private Transportation. Additional Informations: Confirmation will be received at time of booking. Travelling children must be accompanied by adults. Small Private Group Tour. Maximum of 6 people per session. Duration: 6.5 to 7 hours (approximately)
Inclusions: Snacks, Bottled water, Air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi on board, Private transportation, GST (Goods and Services Tax), Parking Fees, Fuel
Exclusions:
Reviewed By beachtraveler2
The tour guide was awful. She barely spoke through the entire tour. And when she did, her English was terrible. The tour is better described as a ride through the city with a silent driver. The driver could not even answer simple questions like what is the population of Auckland, or what is the elevation of Mt Eden, which was on the itinerary. One stop was a museum with a lot of Maori exhibits. I was surprised because it was listed on the itinerary as a military/war memorial. When I asked the driver why the discrepancy, she told me the museum had some Maori weapons. WOW....Later we found out there was an extensive military memorial outside of the building which she never pointed out to us. We passed a very old looking prison. I asked when it was built and the driver told me 1946, which looking at the architecture made no sense whatsoever. I looked it up on google later and found out it was original a military stockade built in 1856. This was an expensive private tour with just my wife and me. Avoid this tour!
4. Waitomo Glow Worm Cave & Ruakuri Cave & Aranui Cave Tours From Auckland
Overall Ratings
4.8 based on 4 reviews
Combo Tours of Waitomo, Aranui, and Ruakuri Cave. A small group tour/activity maximum of 6 people ensures personalised experience. Please bring your cameras ready for taking photos in Aranui and Ruakuri Caves. Taking photos in Waitomo Cave is not permitted. Includes: Attraction Tickets Included Pick up and drop off from Auckland central Friendly Driver. Experienced Tour Guide in the Activities Hotel pick up is offered (inner city hotels only) Airport Pick-Up is offered (outside Butterfly's Creek) Travel in comfort of air conditioned private van. Free Wifi on private deluxe van. Supplementary of drinks and snacks on board. Private Transportation. Duration: 11 to 12 hours (approximately) Additional Informations: Confirmation will be received at time of booking. Travelling children must be accompanied by adults. Cancellation Policy: For a full refund, cancel at least 48 hours in advance prior to departure of the tour/activity.
Inclusions: Bottled water, Snacks, Air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi on board, Private transportation, Parking Fees, Fuel
Exclusions:
Reviewed By beachtraveler2
The tour guide was awful. She barely spoke through the entire tour. And when she did, her English was terrible. The tour is better described as a ride through the city with a silent driver. The driver could not even answer simple questions like what is the population of Auckland, or what is the elevation of Mt Eden, which was on the itinerary. One stop was a museum with a lot of Maori exhibits. I was surprised because it was listed on the itinerary as a military/war memorial. When I asked the driver why the discrepancy, she told me the museum had some Maori weapons. WOW....Later we found out there was an extensive military memorial outside of the building which she never pointed out to us. We passed a very old looking prison. I asked when it was built and the driver told me 1946, which looking at the architecture made no sense whatsoever. I looked it up on google later and found out it was original a military stockade built in 1856. This was an expensive private tour with just my wife and me. Avoid this tour!
5. Private Tour: 8-Day North Island Tour from Auckland Including Rotorua and Wellington
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4 reviews
Venture from Auckland to the North Island on this private 8-day tour that takes you by private, luxury vehicle to Coromandel, Whitianga, Rotorua, Tongariro National Park and Wellington. Take guided sightseeing tours, discover natural hot springs, witness amazing geothermal activity, enjoy scenic nature walks through kauri tree forests, and admire views of majestic volcanoes and beautiful beaches, with plenty of free time to explore more on your own. Your private guide will teach you about Maori culture, as well as the history, geography and wildlife of New Zealand. You’ll experience North Island’s highlights as well as hidden gems not seen on normal coach tours. The service that we provide is a private luxury tour service, not a large group tour. Other than our friendly tour staff you will not be sharing your tour with anyone outside of your own party so you can rest assured that this is your tour and we’ll do exactly what you want to make it your perfect trip.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner, Dinner, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Private tour, Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner), Live commentary on board, Professional tour guide (who is also the driver) , Transport by private vehicle including fuel , Hotel pickup and drop-off, Sightseeing tours of Auckland and Wellington, 7 nights accommodation in your selected category of hotel
Exclusions: Gratuities, Optional activities, Personal expenses, Food and drinks, not specified in the itinerary (lunch and dinner)
Reviewed By Pipnruss
Fiordland Lodge and Doubtful Sound. Fantastic ferry ride across Lake Manapouri and bus ride over the Wilmot Pass to board the Fiordland Navigator for 2 nights. 3 sunny, calm days to relax on board, spoiled by the chef's lovely food and Courtney's very knowledgeable commentary about the Sounds, history, wildlife, birdlife and little things like having complete silence in the Sound to enjoy the peace and look at the amazing mountains and their reflections in the calm water. An unexpected run out into the Tasman Sea was a bonus. The Fiordland Lodge is an American style Lodge built with lots of logs and wood and stone, very spacious. Friendly helpful staff. Located 6km from Te Anau. Our only concern was the lack of food choice for dinner, on a 3 course meal was offered, no light meals. The breakfast (included) was lovely, as was all the food, some interesting variations in tastes.
6. 5-Day New Zealand North and South Island Highlights Tour
Overall Ratings
3.3 based on 8 reviews
Journey through the North Island of New Zealand and explore Waitomo, Rotorua and Lake Taupo, and discover the natural beauty of Kaikoura and Christchurch on this 5-day trip from Auckland to Christchurch or vice versa. See the glow worms at Waitomo Caves, relax at Rotorua's geothermal wonderland, see Giant Sperm Whales where mountains meet sea and be mesmerized by the natural beauty of New Zealand. This 5-day tour will have you travelling by coach, train and ferry with plenty of time at leisure to make this holiday truly magical.
Inclusions: Driver/Guides, Live commentary on board, Air-conditioned vehicle, Hotel pickup and drop-off, 4 nights accommodation, Waitomo Glow Worm Caves tour, Rotorua Activities, Ferry between Wellington and Picton, TranzCoastal train journey between Picton and Kaikoura (only from 01 October to 30 April), Kaikoura Whale Watch Tour
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities (Optional)
Reviewed By ClosesOnTour
Graham from Leisure Tours picked four of us up from our hotel for a half day wine tour, visiting four wineries with lunch included. He was friendly, very knowledgeable and pointed out places of interest as he drove us to the Waipara Valley. We were very comfortable in his people mover with plenty of room for us all. Lunch at Waipara Springs Winery was delicious and the staff were friendly and helpful. The three other wineries had knowledgeable and friendly staff telling us all about their wines. We tasted several varieties and they were delicious. Graham had a good rapport with each winery and took us into each of the tasting rooms. We would certainly recommend this tour. We look forward to visiting Christchurch again and would contact Leisure Tours regarding the other tours they offer.
7. Coromandel Coastal Experience
Overall Ratings
3.0 based on 1 reviews
The Coromandel, renowned for its pristine beaches, misty forests and laid-back vibe, is one of New Zealand's most popular holiday destinations. The laid-back locals, golden coastline, abundant marine life and mountainous interior have long made The Coromandel a favourite holiday spot for kiwis. Enjoy a delightful ride through New Zealand native bush, crossing over one of the many viaducts, tunnels and spirals before reaching the terminus at the mountain top called the ‘Eyefull Tower’ that offers stunning panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.
Inclusions: Fully guided return transfers from Auckland, Complimentary pick up and drop off from Auckland CBD, Complimentary refreshments and water on board, A local English-speaking tour escort throughout the tour, Luxurious temperature controlled transportation in a minibus, Admission to Driving Creek Railway , Coastal walk to Hahei beach and Cathedral Cove, Hot Water Beach - one of New Zealand's iconic destinations, Spend a day exploring the wild and beautiful Coromandel Peninsula, Experience Driving Creek –New Zealand’s only narrow gauge mountain railway, Mountain train ride through native forest, Witness the stunning views over Coromandel town and beyond, Walk through lush forest along the coastline reach Cathedral Cove, Walking beneath the breath-taking rock formation, Visit Cathedral Cove – the land where Narnia was filmed, Have a beautiful view to Hahei Beach, Dig you own thermal pool on Hot Water Beach and relax in 60-degree water, Marvel at the spectacular views and the ever-changing landscape
Exclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Access to Wi-Fi on board for a small surcharge
Reviewed By ivris2019
Highly recommend Started off with Guided Tour with Mark definitely a must do . Came away with more knowledge of my country ????❤️ Finished off with relaxing in Mud Bath and spa omg Heaven ???? Definitely going back again ????
8. 3-Day Wellington to Auckland Tour
Overall Ratings
2.5 based on 2 reviews
This is an independent three day tour departing Wellington daily with two nights in a 4 - 4.5 star accommodation in Rotorua prior to your tour concluding in Auckland on day 3. The tour includes a full day in Rotorua with admission and tours of the Agrodome, Rainbow Springs and Te Puia. On day three the tour travels to Auckland via Waitomo where you will experience a guided tour of the glowworm caves. Hotel pick-ups and drop-offs are included for all transfers and activities listed.
Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Hotel pickup and drop-off for Wellington, Rotorua, and Auckland, Commentary by local guide, 2-nights accommodation in the Rotorua, Admission fees and all transport/tour fees listed in itinerary
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities (optional)
Reviewed By ClosesOnTour
Graham from Leisure Tours picked four of us up from our hotel for a half day wine tour, visiting four wineries with lunch included. He was friendly, very knowledgeable and pointed out places of interest as he drove us to the Waipara Valley. We were very comfortable in his people mover with plenty of room for us all. Lunch at Waipara Springs Winery was delicious and the staff were friendly and helpful. The three other wineries had knowledgeable and friendly staff telling us all about their wines. We tasted several varieties and they were delicious. Graham had a good rapport with each winery and took us into each of the tasting rooms. We would certainly recommend this tour. We look forward to visiting Christchurch again and would contact Leisure Tours regarding the other tours they offer.
9. 3-Day Auckland to Wellington Tour
Overall Ratings
1.0 based on 1 reviews
An independent three day tour departing Auckland daily with two nights 4 - 4.5 star accommodation in Rotorua prior to your tour concluding in Wellington on day 3. The tour includes a full day in Rotorua with admission and tours of the Agrodome, Rainbow Springs and Te Puia. On day one the tour travels to Rotorua via Waitomo where you will experience a guided tour of the glowworm caves. Hotel pick-ups and drop-offs are included for all transfers and activities listed.
Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Hotel pickup and drop-off for Auckland, Rotorua and Wellington, Commentary by local guide, 2-nights accommodation in the Rotorua, Admission fees and all transport/tour fees listed in itinerary
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities (optional)
Reviewed By ClosesOnTour
Graham from Leisure Tours picked four of us up from our hotel for a half day wine tour, visiting four wineries with lunch included. He was friendly, very knowledgeable and pointed out places of interest as he drove us to the Waipara Valley. We were very comfortable in his people mover with plenty of room for us all. Lunch at Waipara Springs Winery was delicious and the staff were friendly and helpful. The three other wineries had knowledgeable and friendly staff telling us all about their wines. We tasted several varieties and they were delicious. Graham had a good rapport with each winery and took us into each of the tasting rooms. We would certainly recommend this tour. We look forward to visiting Christchurch again and would contact Leisure Tours regarding the other tours they offer.
10. Auckland to Wellington via Rotorua and Taupo 7 Day Private Tour
Experience the diverse and stunning natural landscapes that the North Island of New Zealand has to offer. There are plenty of adventure filled and relaxing activities for you to choose from so you can do as little or as much as you like. Enjoy learning about the interesting history and culture of New Zealand topped off with some beautiful views combined with unique experiences for memories to last a lifetime.
Inclusions: Fully guided Private Tour in Mercedes luxury vehicle., Pick-up/drop-off in Auckland incl airport/cruise terminal., Tour times flexible to work in with your requirements., Complimentary snacks & water., All guide expenses (e.g. guide accommodation & meals)., All tours support local eco-cultural initiatives.
Exclusions: Potential entry fees., Guest accommodation and meals., Anything not specifically mentioned in the itinerary.
Reviewed By AylaS171
I had the best experience with Time Unlimited Tours, they were so prompt with their service. I had a group of 70 people getting transported from one venue to another. It was absolutely hassle free and my guests were very impressed! They were on time, so kind and helpful. Neill and Ceillhe are the loviest people and I just can't recommend their service enough!! 10/10 across the board. I would use this company again, ANY day of the week!
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