Treat Yourself

Lunch: Zealong Tea Estate

Head to Zealong Tea Estate - New Zealand's only commercial tea estate, set among the rolling green hills of the Waikato. Indulge in a signature high tea overlooking the gardens, where world renowned flavours, fragrant leaves, and serene views brew a moment of pure calm.

Afternoon: Te Aroha 

Drive to the charming heritage town of Te Aroha, nestled at the base of Mount Te Aroha. Spend the afternoon exploring local bush walks or strolling through the historic domain before unwinding in the town’s natural hot mineral pools.

Overnight Te Aroha 

Morning: e-bike and brunch 

Allow approximately two hours on e-bikes for a short taste of what the Hauraki Rail Trail has to offer. Ride south from Te Aroha to Café 77 in Manawaru for a relaxed brunch, then return to Te Aroha before continuing on the short journey to Matamata,  home of the Hobbiton Movie Set.

Afternoon: Explore Middle Earth 

Journey into the rolling green hills of the Waikato for an unforgettable visit to Hobbiton. Wander through the iconic movie set, where lush pastures, charming Hobbit Holes, and the peaceful Shire bring Middle-earth to life. Take your time exploring the detailed surroundings before enjoying a drink at the Green Dragon Inn.

For a truly special experience, opt for the Evening Banquet Tour (advance bookings essential). As dusk settles over the Shire, enjoy a guided tour followed by a hearty banquet feast inside the inn, lit by firelight and lanterns. The evening concludes with a magical walk back through the village under the stars, offering a memorable and immersive end to your day.

Overnight in Matamata 

Morning: Huka Falls 

Travel south from Matamata toward the stunning landscapes of Lake Taupō, with a must-do stop at the iconic Huka Falls along the way. Here, witness the raw power of the Waikato River as it surges through a narrow gorge in a spectacular display of turquoise water. For an unforgettable experience, get up close on a thrilling Jet Boat ride, skimming across the river and into the base of the falls, or opt for a Scenic Boat Cruise to take in the beauty at a more relaxed pace. After your visit, continue on to Lake Taupō, where expansive views and lakeside charm await.

Afternoon: Geothermal Taupō

After a leisurely lunch and time spent exploring this picturesque lakeside town, continue on to the Wairakei Terraces geothermal walkway. Here, steaming silica terraces wind through native bush, creating a striking and otherworldly landscape. Later, unwind with an onsite spa treatment and relax in the soothing silica bathing pools.

Dinner suggestion: The Bistro 
Overnight in Taupō

Morning: Adventure activity (optional) 

This morning is an ideal time to enjoy an adventure activity, with Taupō renowned for its wide range of exciting outdoor experiences.
Continue south toward Ōhakune, the gateway to Tongariro National Park. Along the journey, take advantage of the many short walks within the park, where you can explore striking volcanic landscapes, alpine tussock, and sweeping views of Mount Ruapehu and Mount Ngauruhoe.

Evening: Pre-Sunset Guided Walk 

Join a pre-sunset guided walk with Adrift Tongariro, where expert guides share insights into the area’s unique geology, cultural significance, and dramatic scenery within this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Dinner suggestion: The Cyprus Tree 
Overnight in Ohakune 

Morning:

Take the Sky Waka gondola at Whakapapa, the longest gondola ride in the North Island, rising to over 2,000 metres. At the top, enjoy short alpine walks with sweeping views across Tongariro National Park, and have lunch at Knoll Ridge Chalet, the highest café in New Zealand.

Afternoon:

Spend the afternoon exploring Tongariro National Park. Options include the Taranaki Falls Track, Silica Rapids Walk, or a short visit to Tawhai Falls. Alternatively, enjoy a scenic drive through the surrounding volcanic terrain. Return to your spa retreat for a relaxing evening surrounded by the mountain landscape.

Morning:

Drive west toward New Plymouth, with Mount Taranaki rising dramatically above the region. Visit Pukeiti Gardens, a stunning rainforest garden set on the slopes of the mountain, famous for its rhododendrons and native bush walks. Climb Paritutu Rock for panoramic views over the coast and city.

Afternoon:

Later, explore the city’s coastline by e-biking the award-winning Coastal Walkway. Finish the day with a peaceful stroll through Pukekura Park, followed by dinner at the Shining Peak Brewery. 

Overnight in New Plymouth 

Morning: 

Begin the journey back toward Waikato, stopping along the dramatic Taranaki coast for the Three Sisters Walk at Tongapōrutu, where towering sea stacks and black sand beaches create a striking landscape (best visited at low tide)

Afternoon:

Continue to Hamilton and spend time wandering the internationally acclaimed Hamilton Gardens, where themed gardens represent different cultures and historical garden styles from around the world. Enjoy an early dinner in Hamilton before heading to your accommodation at the Ruru Retreat at The Sculpture Park or spend the night in Hamilton City.

Dinner suggestion: Gothenburg 

Morning: Sculpture Park at Waitakaruru 

Spend the morning exploring the sculpture park, walking through landscaped grounds dotted with contemporary artworks and installations. Make your way towards the west coast and enroute to Raglan stop off at Pumula for yoga, massage and sauna. Continue on to Raglan, a laid-back surf town wrapped in dramatic coastal beauty.

Evening: Raglan Harbour Cruise 

End the day on the water with Raglan Boat Charters - a peaceful sunset cruise across the harbour as the sky turns peach and gold. Enjoy classic fish and chips from the wharf as you drift beneath the fading light, soaking in Raglan’s effortless coastal charm.

Overnight in Raglan