North Island Culture and Service

8 Days

New Zealand

Auckland (1), Maori Marae (2), Rotorua (2), Waitomo (1), Auckland (1)

Overview

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of New Zealand’s North Island on this 8-day adventure. From the vibrant city of Auckland to the stunning landscapes of the Bay of Plenty and the thrilling experiences in Rotorua and Waitomo, this program combines cultural immersion, conservation efforts, and adrenaline-pumping activities. Engage with local Māori communities, explore the natural wonders of New Zealand, and create unforgettable memories on this unique journey through the Land of the Long White Cloud.

Route Map

Highlights

Visit Auckland’s National Museum to learn about New Zealand’s rich history and culture.
Stay on tribal grounds in a Māori Marae, engaging in cultural learning, storytelling, and conservation efforts in the Bay of Plenty.
Experience thrilling activities in Rotorua, including Zorbing, luge racing, and a scenic gondola ride.
Take a peaceful night walk through the illuminated Redwood Forest, with its elevated skywalks and stunning views.
Visit Hobbiton and explore the iconic movie set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.
Venture underground in the Waitomo Caves, where you’ll swim, climb, and float through an exhilarating underground river system.
Participate in environmental conservation projects, contributing to local sustainability efforts while learning about New Zealand’s unique ecosystems.
Enjoy free time in Auckland, shopping for souvenirs and reflecting on your incredible adventure.

Itinerary

Arrive in Auckland, New Zealand, where you will be greeted by your local staff. After breakfast, begin your adventure with a program orientation, learning about the week ahead, the expectations for the trip, and an introduction to New Zealand culture. In the afternoon, visit the National Museum, where you will explore the history and culture of the country.
Overnight: Auckland

Travel southeast to the Bay of Plenty, passing by scenic rolling farmlands and endless flocks of sheep. Spend the next two days immersing yourself in Māori culture and participating in local service initiatives such as removing invasive species, planting native species, or working on infrastructure to help with conservation efforts. Explore the surrounding hills on hikes, hearing ancient stories from the Māori people and learning about their way of life. Stay on tribal grounds in a Marae, where you will engage in games, cultural learning, and group debriefs.
Overnight: Māori Marae

Adventure day! Head to Rotorua and start your day with a thrilling Zorb ride, where you’ll roll downhill inside a giant inflatable ball. Afterward, take a gondola ride to the top of Mount Ngongotaha, where you’ll race your friends down the high-speed luge track. In the evening, take a peaceful stroll through the Redwood Forest, walking along elevated skywalks illuminated by a stunning lighting display.
Overnight: Rotorua

Continue your adventures in Rotorua by visiting Velocity Valley, an adrenaline-packed destination offering a variety of activities, including jet-boating and indoor freefall extreme. After lunch, take a relaxing walk around the serene Blue Lake, enjoying the peaceful forest and breathtaking views.
Overnight: Rotorua

Today, leave Rotorua and travel to Waitomo, but not before stopping at Hobbiton for a guided tour of the famous movie set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Walk through the lush pastures of the Shire and explore iconic Hobbiton landmarks like Bag End and the Green Dragon Inn.
Overnight: Waitomo

Experience the thrill of the Waitomo Caves with an exhilarating underground adventure. Lower yourself into a sinkhole and navigate through the caves, swimming, climbing, and floating along underground rivers. After your cave exploration, head back to Auckland for a free afternoon to explore the city and enjoy your final evening in New Zealand.
Overnight: Auckland

On your final day, pack up and spend some time in Auckland for last-minute souvenir shopping. Say goodbye to your new friends and this incredible adventure as you transfer to the airport for your departure.
Overnight: Flight home