Northern Wilderness & Adventure NB

Day 1 | Welcome

Welcome to your ZigZag adventure which starts in our vibrant capital city, Wellington.

Wellington is a compact city based around a large working harbour that is home to a mix of culture, history, nature and cuisine. It has a particularly vibrant coffee and craft beer scene.

Museums, art galleries, theatres and festivals are at the heart of the city’s thriving cultural scene - New Zealand’s Te Papa Tongarewa national museum is located on the waterfront itself and is one of the best interactive museums in the world.

Despite its nickname as the ‘windy city’ (due to the strong winds that often buffet it from the Cook Strait), Wellington has a number of beautiful walks within the wider city area that include sandy beaches, forested hills and waterfront promenades as well as a historic tourist cable car, the Zealandia bird sanctuary and the botanical gardens.

You will spend your first night getting to know your fellow travellers before we head north tomorrow on our journey into New Zealand's North Island.

Accommodation: Cabin (Wellington)

Day 2

Today, we depart our capital and head north over the dramatic Remutaka Ranges, before veering off the main road at Featherstone and making our way around Lake Wairarapa and through lush green farmland to the sea.

We then travel east along the rugged coastline to the desolate and very remote Cape Palliser, the southernmost point of the North Island. Weaving between steep jagged mountains on our left and the wild rolling seas to our right, the coastal route meanders through a number of small fishing settlements before arriving at the 125-year-old clifftop lighthouse at the end of the road. The view at the top is stunning.

We then backtrack along the coast before driving north to Martinborough, a quaint little town with over twenty vineyards surrounding its cute village square. Along with some of the world’s finest olive groves (with many local oils winning international awards), much of New Zealand’s best Pinot Noir comes from this pretty region.

‍Accommodation: Camping (Martinborough)

Day 3 | Free Day.

(optional free day road trip to Castlepoint – weather dependent)

Today is yours to enjoy at a relaxed pace in the charming wine village of Martinborough, or to join us on an optional day trip to the spectacular eastern coastline at Castlepoint.

If you choose to stay in Martinborough, you’ll find plenty to enjoy right on your doorstep. Early April is a beautiful time in the region, with the heat of summer easing into warm, settled autumn days—ideal for strolling, cycling, and vineyard hopping. The village is laid out in a classic colonial grid, making it wonderfully easy to explore on foot or by bike. You might like to visit one of the many boutique wineries for cellar-door tastings, enjoy a long lunch at a vineyard restaurant, or simply relax with a coffee in the village square. For something more active, cycle hire is widely available, and self-guided wine trails are a popular and enjoyable way to explore the surrounding vineyards at your own pace.

For those keen to see more of the Wairarapa coastline, join us on an optional day’s excursion to the stunningly remote seaside reserve of Castlepoint. This dramatic stretch of coast is home to a striking lighthouse perched above a long reef-fringed beach, as well as the iconic 160-metre-high Castle Rock. The surrounding landscape is a mix of windswept dunes, tidal lagoons and rugged coastal scenery, offering fantastic short walks, photo opportunities, and a true sense of wild, open space.

Whether you choose vineyards or coastline, today is all about slowing down and enjoying some of the very best of the Wairarapa region at your own pace.

‍Accommodation: Camping (Martinborough)

Day 4

Today we journey north through the rolling farmland and picturesque rural communities of the Wairarapa, before crossing the rugged Ruahine Ranges into the heart of New Zealand's North Island. Along the way, enjoy ever-changing scenery of lush valleys, crystal-clear rivers, dramatic gorges and historic bridges.

By afternoon, we arrive in the alpine town of Ohakune, our home for the next three nights. Nestled at the foot of Mount Ruapehu, the North Island's highest peak, Ohakune is famously known as New Zealand's Carrot Capital and is the perfect base for exploring the spectacular Tongariro National Park.

From here, adventurous hikers can tackle the world-renowned Tongariro Alpine Crossing—a spectacular 19km trek regularly ranked among the world's finest one-day walks. Highlights include the vivid Emerald Lakes, the dramatic Red Crater, the tranquil Blue Lake, and breathtaking volcanic landscapes. Towering above it all is Mount Ngauruhoe, instantly recognisable as Mount Doom from The Lord of the Rings films.

Accommodation: Camping (Ohakune)

Day 5 | Free Day.

Ohakune is the ideal base for exploring the North Island’s dramatic Volcanic Plateau, home to the three active volcanoes of Mount Ruapehu, Mount Ngauruhoe and Mount Tongariro. Dominating the skyline, Mount Ruapehu rises to 2,797m and is the North Island’s highest peak, renowned for skiing in winter and spectacular alpine scenery year-round.

Weather permitting, we take a scenic drive up to Whakapapa Village, where you can ride the SkyWaka gondola for sweeping mountain views, or enjoy the beautiful 6km walk to Taranaki Falls, one of the region’s most rewarding short hikes.

For something more active, bike hire is available to explore the historic Old Coach Road—a 15km trail following the original route of the Auckland–Wellington railway. This atmospheric ride winds through native bush, cobbled paths, stone tunnels and towering steel viaducts, offering a fascinating glimpse into the area’s pioneering past.

Accommodation: Camping (Ohakune)

Day 6

This morning, we set off from Ohakune and drive north to the town of Taumarunui, where we stop for an early lunch. We then drive south on the 148km long ‘Forgotten World Highway’, a rugged maze of steep hills, native bush, farmland, historic buildings, and winding streams that are a truly ‘lost piece of New Zealand’.

In the middle of this ‘lost world’, we find ourselves at the small settlement of Whangamomona, which declared itself an independent republic in 1989 – the friendly staff at the historic hotel can stamp your passport for a couple of dollars. Be some of the few people around the world who can say they have the ‘Republic of Whangamomona’ stamp in their passport!

Completing the second half of the Forgotten World Highway, we continue through the rugged Taranaki countryside before emerging from the hills at Stratford. With the impressive Mount Taranaki volcano rising on our left, we drive on to New Plymouth where we stay for two nights.

Accommodation: Camping (New Plymouth)

Day 7 | Free Day

New Plymouth is a vibrant coastal city, celebrated for its sunny climate, creative energy, and easygoing lifestyle. The city is dotted with art galleries, striking street art, and beautifully maintained parks and botanical gardens, all within easy reach of the centre.

One of its standout features is the spectacular Coastal Walkway, a 12.7km path stretching from the port to a northern beach settlement. Perfect for walking or cycling, it offers ever-changing ocean views and fresh sea air, with the iconic Te Rewa Rewa Bridge sitting roughly halfway along the route. On a clear day, the bridge perfectly frames the snow-capped cone of Mount Taranaki in the distance.

Beyond the city, New Plymouth is surrounded by stunning beaches that make it a haven for surfers, swimmers, kayakers, and paddleboarders.

For those after a bigger challenge, the hike to the Pouākai Tarns is a must. Starting on the Mangorei Track, this demanding but rewarding day walk climbs steadily through native forest to reach the alpine tarns, where—on a calm day—you’re treated to one of New Zealand’s most iconic sights: the perfect reflection of Mount Taranaki mirrored in still mountain water.

Accommodation: Camping (New Plymouth)‍

Day 8

With Mount Taranaki in our rear-view mirror, we set off to the north today along one of the fastest eroding coastlines in the world. The relentless Tasman Sea continually sculpts and shapes the cliffs of the seafront here, creating numerous caves, tunnels and archways. Along the way we pass by the translucent waters of the Tongapōrutu and Mokau Rivers.

The coastal route that we take up to the small settlement of Marakopa, is incredibly scenic. It is a short drive from here to the thunderous Marakopa Falls, where we take a short bush walk to this wide waterfall with its impressive 35m drop - often referred to as the most beautiful in NZ.

Time permitting, we will also visit the Mangapohue Natural Bridge, a 17m high natural limestone arch that has formed from the remnants of an ancient cave system. Be ‘wowed’ as you walk through the fairy-tale like forest that leads up to this beautiful natural phenomenon.

We stop for the next two nights in Waitomo, renowned around the worldwide for its extensive underground cave systems and its glow-worms

Accommodation: Camping (Waitomo)‍

Day 9 | Free Day

‍Waitomo offers so many fantastic visitor experiences - cave tours, glow-worms, black water rafting, abseiling, ziplining, bushwalking and the Discovery Centre & Museum – all are either walkable from our campsite or offer/include pick-ups/drop offs.‍

Accommodation: Camping (Waitomo)

Day 10

We start this morning by visiting the Otorohanga Kiwi House. This not-for-profit wildlife and conservation centre displays rare native New Zealand wildlife for release to the wild and is the best place to see a real Kiwi bird and the lesser known Tuatara reptile (a real dinosaur that predates lizards!).

After lunch, we head to Bridal Veil Falls, a tall plunge waterfall that is 55m high. It is set in a beautiful bush clad bowl and can be viewed from three separate tiered viewing platforms.

We finish the day in Raglan, a laid-back West Coast surfing mecca and holiday spot where we will spend two nights.

Accommodation: Camping (Raglan)

Day 11 | Free Day.

Raglan attracts many domestic and international surfers who come to catch the longest, most accessible and consistent ‘left hand break’ in the world. Even if you’re not a surfer, it’s fantastic to watch.

Have a go yourself with a surf lesson or simply watch the board riders on the waves at Manu Bay.

Laze on Ngarunui Beach or experience the large range of other water-based activities that Raglan has to offer.

Browse around the boutique ‘bohemian’ shops, galleries and cafes, hire a bike or simply watch the youngsters jump off the bridge into the turquoise waters of the estuary at high tide.

Accommodation: Camping (Raglan)

Day 12

This morning, we head to Hamilton Gardens, a 54-hectare public garden situated on the banks of the mighty Waikato River in the city of Hamilton. This renowned parkland hosts an array of intricate and beautifully manicured themed gardens. From the Japanese ‘Garden of Contemplation’ to the grandeur of the ‘Italian Renaissance’ collection and on to the English ‘Flower Garden’, you will feel like you have been transported around the world by the magnificent flora on display here.

We then spend time this afternoon at Huka Falls where you can witness nearly a quarter of a million litres of water per second thundering through a natural rocky gorge before tumbling 11m into the roiling Waikato River below. There are numerous viewing platforms from which to see the falls, and you may also see the excited passengers on the Huka Jet as it comes racing up and almost touches the crashing waters on this, the ultimate thrill ride.

We then continue on to the town of Taupo, which sits on the north-eastern shore of Lake Taupo. The lake was formed from a crater that was left after the large Taupo super volcano erupted 1800 years ago. The area is now a beautiful adventure playground with Lake Taupo at its centre and the three mountains of the Central Plateau visible to the south.

Accommodation: Camping (Taupo)

Day 13 | Free Day.

Lake Taupō is New Zealand’s largest lake, covering an impressive 622 square kilometres, and offers an incredible range of activities both on and around its shores.

One of the most unforgettable experiences is a floatplane flight, taking off from the lake beside town and soaring over the dramatic landscapes of the Central Volcanic Plateau to the south.

On the water itself, you can cruise out to see the famous Ngātoroirangi Māori Rock Carvings, explore the lake by boat, or enjoy some of the world-class trout fishing that Lake Taupō is renowned for.

Back on shore, there are plenty of scenic walking and cycling trails, including the easy and picturesque lakeside Lion’s Walk, as well as the fun Taupō Hole-in-One golf challenge for those keen to test their swing.

For thrill-seekers, Taupō doesn’t disappoint. Options include skydiving directly over the lake or taking on a bungy jump or swing above the Waikato River.

This is just a taste of the many experiences on offer in and around Taupō.

Accommodation: Camping (Taupo)

Day 14

This morning, we travel southeast, leaving behind rolling landscapes as we wind our way through dense pine forests and climb over a series of high country ranges.

The journey offers a real sense of transition, with rugged inland scenery gradually giving way to warmer, drier coastal terrain as we descend towards the east coast.

By afternoon, we arrive in Napier, the elegant Art Deco capital of Hawke’s Bay.

Accommodation: Camping (Napier)

Day 15 | Free Day.

(optional free half-day road trip to Te Mata Peak – weather permitting)

Hawke’s Bay is one of New Zealand’s premier food and wine regions, renowned for its world-class wines and fresh local produce. The region is also celebrated internationally as an Art Deco capital, with stunning 1930s architecture rebuilt after a major earthquake.

Napier itself is the largest city in Hawke’s Bay, with a beautiful seafront along Marine Parade, perfect for walking or cycling while admiring the many Art Deco buildings. The old harbour area is also worth exploring, with its quaint boutique shops, cafés, and relaxed coastal charm.

Wine tours are a popular way to explore this celebrated region, and many visitors also choose to visit the Cape Kidnappers gannet colony, one of New Zealand’s most scenic wildlife experiences.

Today, we also have the option of a scenic drive along the dramatic Tukituki Road loop, taking in the rolling hills and vineyards before ascending Te Mata Peak. From the summit, enjoy sweeping 360° views across boutique wineries, farmland, and, on a clear day, all the way to the central North Island mountains — a perfect spot for photos and taking in the scenery. We then return to Napier, with the option to stop in town along the way.

Accommodation: Camping (Napier)

Day 16

This morning, we continue north, passing the dramatic and remote landscapes of the Mahia Peninsula before entering the sun-soaked Gisborne region. Known for its fertile land, the area is dotted with lush orchards, rolling vineyards, and peaceful rural scenery that reflects its reputation as one of New Zealand’s most productive growing regions.

By afternoon, we arrive in the city of Gisborne, where we settle for two nights beside the golden sands of Waikanae Beach. With its long, sweeping shoreline and laid-back coastal atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the relaxed rhythm of the East Coast.

Accommodation: Camping (Gisborne)

Day 17 | Free Day.

Today is a free day in Gisborne. Stroll along golden beaches, enjoy the panoramic views from nearby Kaiti Hill (Titirangi), sample local cafés and restaurants, visit nearby vineyards, or soak up the relaxed vibe of the vibrant waterfront.

Accommodation: Camping (Gisborne)

Day 18

The next three days take us along the legendary State Highway 35, which traces the wild and remote coastline of the East Cape—one of the first places in the world to see the sunrise each day.

This 334km route is packed with sweeping white-sand beaches, isolated coastal settlements, and a strong sense of untouched, rural New Zealand.

We begin with a short inland detour to Ngatapa, where we visit the beautiful Eastwoodhill Arboretum—131 hectares of rolling countryside and home to over 2,800 species of trees and plants from around the world. Peaceful walking tracks and shaded gardens make it a perfect place to slow down and explore.

Returning to the coast, we follow a series of stunning beaches and winding backroads before reaching Tolaga Bay, where we set up camp behind the dunes. This quiet seaside village is home to the iconic 660-metre wharf—the longest in the Southern Hemisphere—and a coastline rich in early Māori and Captain Cook history.

Accommodation: Camping (Tolaga Bay)

Day 19 | Free Day.

Today, we’ll have the opportunity to zip open our tents and be some of the first people in the world to witness the start of the new day. The best view in our opinion is from the wharf, a two minute walk from where we camp. What an experience!

The rest of the day is yours to enjoy. A fantastic walk that starts right outside our campground is Cook’s Cove Walkway. It's one of the highlights of the East Cape – a hilly path with incredible views that leads to a photogenic ‘hole in a wall’, and the secluded Cooks Cove (Ōpoutama), where Captain James Cook anchored the Endeavour in 1769.

Accommodation: Camping (Tolaga Bay)

Day 20

After breakfast, we continue north along the East Cape coastline and make an early stop in the charming seaside settlement of Tokomaru Bay, known for its beautiful beach, classic abandoned wharf, and legendary homemade paua pies.

From here, we travel on to Te Araroa, home to New Zealand’s largest pōhutukawa tree, before turning west towards the striking Raukokore Anglican Church, one of the country’s most photographed coastal landmarks.

We then follow the dramatic sweep of State Highway 35, with its remote beaches and rugged headlands, and—on clear days—views across to the offshore volcano of Whakaari / White Island rising from the Pacific horizon.

By late afternoon, we arrive in Whakatāne, our gateway to the Bay of Plenty and the end of our unforgettable East Cape journey.

Accommodation: Camping (Whakatāne)

Day 21 | Free Day.

Whakatāne sits at the heart of the Eastern Bay of Plenty and is one of New Zealand’s sunniest towns, often recording the highest annual sunshine hours in the country. It’s an easy place to relax, with a beautiful natural setting of rivers, coastline, and native bush all close at hand.

There’s also plenty to explore. Whakatāne is one of the country’s premier fishing destinations, famous for its yellowfin tuna and deep-sea fishing opportunities. For a unique wildlife experience, you can take a boat trip to Moutohorā / Whale Island, a protected sanctuary home to rare native birdlife and thriving conservation efforts.

For something truly unforgettable, scenic flights are available over the dramatic and ever-active Whakaari / White Island, offering an extraordinary aerial view of New Zealand’s most active volcano.

Accommodation: Camping (Whakatāne)

Day 22

This morning, we say farewell to Whakatane and drive to Wai O Tapu Thermal Wonderland, named as "One of the 20 Most Surreal Places in the World" by TripAdvisor ®. This exotic natural park features brightly coloured natural hot pools, sulphur mud baths, and explosive geysers, and is a must-do for the photographers amongst our group.

Wai O Tapu provides the perfect introduction to the nearby geothermal city of Rotorua, where this part of the tour ends.

‍Accommodation: Camping (Rotorua)

Day 23

Enjoy a final breakfast with the group before departing the tour. Your ZigZag adventure may be over, but what a place to finish - Rotorua.

Rotorua is a vibrant mix of natural beauty, adventure, geothermal wonders, and Māori culture. Whether you’re after adrenaline-fuelled activities, relaxing spa experiences, or peaceful walks through the stunning Redwood Forest, there’s something for everyone. Explore bubbling mud pools and hot springs, wander the beautiful Government Gardens and lakefront, or enjoy Rotorua’s cafés and restaurants at Eat Streat. With incredible scenery, fascinating culture, and plenty to explore, Rotorua is a destination you won’t forget.