Our adventure begins the moment we touch down in Tamaki Makaurau (Auckland). After meeting our knowledgeable local guides, we participate in a trip briefing before having time to settle in and prepare for the journey ahead. Depending on time, we get out to explore whatever is within reach around our city accommodation. This includes getting our first sites of the Auckland Harbour and seeing why it's called the 'City of Sails'. We enjoy a welcome dinner together before turning in for a good night's rest before the action starts tomorrow. Accommodation: Hostel in Auckland

Meals:  D

We wake early for a big, yet exciting, day. Our first destination is the magical Waitomo region. Here, hidden beneath the rolling green hills, lies one of nature’s most extraordinary spectacles, the Spellbound Glowworm Caves. We get to walk through caverns, witness breathtaking glowworms, then board a small boat and glide silently through underground rivers. We are literally star-struck as we gaze up at thousands of tiny glowworms that create a living, twinkling galaxy on the cave ceiling. In the afternoon, we continue to Rotorua, the geothermal and cultural heart of New Zealand. At Te Puia, we are immersed in a powerful cultural experience featuring a guided tour of the geysers and being introduced to the history of New Zealand and the local area. The culmination today is experiencing a traditional welcome ceremony including a powhiri and traditional haka performance. Accommodation: Hostel in Rotorua

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning we slow down and connect deeply with Rotorua’s natural wonders. First, we explore the Redwoods Tree walk, a stunning elevated walkway through a magnificent forest of towering redwoods. We then visit a Kiwi Hatchery, where we learn about New Zealand’s beloved national icon and the dedicated conservation efforts to protect this unique flightless bird. It’s a wonderful opportunity to understand the delicate balance of Aotearoa’s unique ecosystem. In the evening we enjoy the ultimate relaxation as we soak in a geothermal pool! Accommodation: Hostel in Rotorua

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning we head nearby into the remote Whirinaki Rainforest to kick off our two-night cultural immersion. On arrival we our met by our local Maori guides who welcome us as manuhiri (guests). We are taken on a tour of the rainforest beneath towering ancient trees, connecting with the stories and spirit of this special place, and stopping for a picnic lunch and kawakawa tea on the way. Eventually we arrive at our base for this trip segment - Kohutapu Lodge. A powerful powhiri (formal welcome) and marae visit introduce us to more of our hosts and the local customs. We begin to get a sense for how special this unique and rare opportunity is for such an authentic taste of Maori culture. Before long, we dive into our first hands-on workshops—learning haka, waiata, or weaving—before an evening of connection and culture in true Maori communal style. Accommodation: Kohutapu Lodge (cabin or marae)

Meals:  B,L,D

Today we fully immerse ourselves in Maori culture, getting involved in interactive workshops like mau rakau (traditional weaponry), haka, and storytelling. At some point during the day, we also stop to witness the beginning stages of a hangi - the food being prepped and then in the early afternoon, the food being laid in the ground in the hangi pit. it takes at least 2-3 hours to cook! We get excited as we imagine what this traditional cooking method will taste like tonight! Before dinner, we spend the afternoon contributing to a meaningful service project at the local mara kai (community garden). It's a wonderful chance to learn about kaitiakitanga (guardianship of the land) and manaakitanga (care for others). As the day winds down, we come together to watch the hangi being pulled up from underground and then to share in the feast! It's a wonderful night of sharing and celebrating everything we’ve experienced and learned. After dinner, we help pack up left over hangi for meal deliveries back in to the community the following day. Accommodation: Kohutapu Lodge (cabin or marae)

Meals:  B,L,D

We bid a grateful farewell to our wonderful hosts and press on around the corner to Mount Tarawera - a sacred volcano with deep cultural significance and incredible views across the region. It is a protected mountain and we're lucky to be led by local Maori guides on a journey to the summit. This is a day for physical challenge and we support each other to the top while learning about the mountain’s history and importance to local communities. We get the feeling this will be one of the most memorable experiences of the trip. After the walk, we travel to the beautiful coastal area of Papamoa, where we are welcomed onto a local marae for the night. This marks a gentle shift from the forest to the sea. Accommodation: Cabins at Papamoa

Meals:  B,L,D

Today is all about connection to the whenua (land) and moana (sea). We spend the day with local Maori hosts who showcase the local area, lead us in cultural activities, and take us out for a paddle on traditional waka ama (outrigger canoes). The North Island of New Zealand is famous for it's beautiful beaches and expansive coastlines. We understand why as we explore and play around the beautiful Papamoa coastline. The day culminates in a final beach dinner, a wonderful way to celebrate the last seven days together while watching the dimming sun over the Pacific Ocean. Accommodation: Cabins at Papamoa

Meals:  B,L,D

Our final day begins with an iconic and fun experience. We farewell the Bay of Plenty and head for a visit to the world-famous Hobbiton Movie Set. It's a whimsical and photogenic highlight that brings the magic of Middle-earth - from the Lord of the Rings series - to life. We get to wander through the lush gardens, visit Bag End, and enjoy the charming atmosphere that has captured hearts around the world. It's a wonderful way to wrap up our amazing adventure in New Zealand before heading to Auckland Airport for our flight home.

Meals:  B,L