Price pp from:

$5,600
Mt Ngauruhoe volcano with orange crater lake under a clear blue sky Credit: New Zealand Fine Touring
Māori Culture

The Great Volcanic Rail Trail

Auckland

Auckland

10 days, 9 nights

Self-Guided Coach Tours

From: $5,600 pp

Trip overview

Start in Auckland and head straight into the magic of Middle-earth and the subterranean wonders of Waitomo. Discover Rotorua’s geothermal power and vibrant Māori heritage before heading to the adventure hub of Lake Taupō for a scenic cruise to a Māori carving site. After exploring the urban energy and cinematic secrets of Wellington, board the iconic Northern Explorer train. Wind your way through the dramatic heart of the island to Tongariro National Park, where you'll unwind among volcanic peaks before returning to the city.

Trip highlights & inclusions

10 days / 9 nights
9 breakfasts

Auckland

Auckland

Hotel 4 star
  • Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton & Waitomo
  • Crater Lakes Flight & Hot Pools by Floatplane with Volcanic Air
  • Te Pā Tū Evening Māori Cultural Experience - Dinner Included

Make an enquiry about this trip or build a custom quote

Price pp from

$5,600

Why Discover New Zealand

  • Wānaka-based specialists planning your trip from inside New Zealand.
  • One travel specialist to plan and book every detail from start to finish.
  • 24/7 in-country support while you’re travelling, so help is close if plans change.

Trip itinerary

Welcome to Auckland

Welcome to Auckland, known in Māori as Tāmaki Makaurau. Auckland is New Zealand's vibrant "City of Sails," and the country's largest metropolitan area. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea. Surrounded by native bush, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches, Auckland is a haven for both adventurers and urban explorers. Wander through world-class museums and galleries in the city centre or enjoy a peaceful retreat at the Auckland Gardens, where stunning landscapes showcase New Zealand's diverse flora. Stroll along the lively waterfront to savour fresh seafood and international cuisine at Viaduct restaurants. For an unforgettable perspective, ascend the iconic SkyTower, New Zealand's tallest structure, and take in panoramic views of the city and its picturesque islands.

Aerial view of Auckland city skyline with bridge and harbor at sunset. Credit: New Zealand Fine Touring

Accommodation

Sudima Auckland hotel building with a modern checkered design and the Sky Tower nearby under a blue sky. Credit: Sudima Auckland City
Sudima Auckland City

Activities

Intercity Day Specific Departures

**Please Note: Some elements of this tour may only run on certain days of the week. Speak to one of our travel specialists today to find a departure date that works for you.

Trip highlights

Hobbit hole with a yellow door and garden at sunset on the Hobbiton movie set. Credit: Cheeky Kiwi Travel

Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton & Waitomo

Pilot standing on dock beside a floatplane on a lake with mountains and clouds. Credit: PB & DV Holdings Ltd T/A Volcanic Air

Crater Lakes Flight & Hot Pools by Floatplane with Volcanic Air

Two Maori performers performing a traditional dance with expressive faces and traditional attire in a natural setting. Credit: Te Pa Tu

Te Pā Tū Evening Māori Cultural Experience - Dinner Included

A wide view of churning turquoise water at Huka Falls surrounded by lush green bush and rocky cliffs in Taupo. Credit: Shutterstock

Rotorua to Taupō by InterCity Coach

Woman on sailboat looking at rock carving in cave with clear green water and trees. Credit: Sail Barbary

Maori Rock Carving Cruise

A high-angle, sunny view of Oriental Bay in Wellington, New Zealand, featuring a golden sand beach, clear turquoise water with the Carter Fountain spraying into the air, and hillside houses under a clear blue sky. Credit: Wirestock Creators - Shutterstock

Taupō to Wellington by Intercity Coach

Two people smiling and holding swords while wearing metal helmets, posing with dwarves in armor against a rocky background. Credit: Weta Workshop

Wētā Workshop Experience + Guided Transfers

Northern Explorer train crossing Hapuawhenua Viaduct over green forested landscape. Credit: Kiwi Rail

The Northern Explorer Scenic Train: Wellington to National Park

Hikers posing at the snowy summit of a volcano overlooking a turquoise crater lake. Credit: Adrift Tongariro

Premium Half Day Tongariro Alpine Tour with Adrift

Northern Explorer train crossing Hapuawhenua Viaduct over green forested landscape. Credit: Kiwi Rail

The Northern Explorer Scenic Train: National Park to Auckland

Additional inclusions

Private Transfer Auckland Airport to your Auckland Accommodation with Tourcorp

Rotorua Accommodation to Rotorua Intercity Bus Stop with Ready2Roll

Taupo Coach Depot to Taupo Accommodation - Private Transfer

Taupo Accommodation to Taupo Coach Depot - Private Transfer

Private Transfer from Wellington Hotel to Train Station

Private Transfer Auckland Train Station to Auckland accommodation

Private Transfer Auckland accommodation to Auckland Airport

24/7 support from the moment you arrive to the moment you depart

Talk to a local travel specialist. Enquire