91av

1 November 2026 – 8 days for 拢3,150 per person

Register your interest for 2027 and we will contact you when confirmed details including finalised dates and prices are available.

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Explore New Zealand鈥檚 North Island, a land shaped by powerful volcanic forces, with volcanologist Dr Finnigan Illsley-Kemp. Discover the geological stories behind the lava fields of Rangitoto Island, the ancient glow-worm caves of Waitomo and Tongariro鈥檚 dramatic volcanic peaks. Uncover how fire, water and time have transformed this extraordinary landscape, revealing the dynamic processes that continue to shape Aotearoa.

Explore New Zealand鈥檚 most remarkable geological wonders, from the volcanic landscapes of Rangitoto Island and the dramatic peaks of Tongariro National Park to the mesmerising Waitomo Caves and bubbling geothermal regions. Discover the powerful forces that have shaped this extraordinary land, with highlights including Taupo鈥檚 Huka Falls, Aratiatia Rapids and Tokaanu Thermal Pools. Combining geology, nature and adventure, this journey offers a fascinating insight into the ever-changing landscapes of Aotearoa.

Accompanied throughout by Dr. Finnigan Illsley-Kemp, a Senior Research Fellow at Victoria University of Wellington. Finn will bring the region鈥檚 dramatic landscapes to life, from the lava fields of Rangitoto Island and ancient caves of Waitomo to Rotorua鈥檚 steaming geothermal wonders, Tongariro鈥檚 volcanic peaks and powerful waterfalls. Discover how fire, water and time have sculpted this ever-changing landscape, revealing the dynamic forces that continue to shape Aotearoa. In addition to Finn, there will be a chance to meet local experts along the way who will offer insight into New Zealand’s culture.

For anyone looking to extend their time in New Zealand, and explore South Island, please consider our Glaciology and geology: South Island, New Zealand tour, which connects with this North Island tour itinerary, it operates after this tour departure. 

In partnership with Intrepid Travel.

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Day 1: Arrive in Auckland, meet the group and visit Stardome Observatory and Planetarium

Welcome to Auckland! Check in to the Grand Millennium Hotel in the heart of this cosmopolitan city, where you will stay for the next two nights. Auckland (also known as T膩maki Makaurau) is spread over volcanic hills and is based around two harbours.

After meeting your fellow guests for dinner, you will enjoy a briefing from the tour leader.

After the welcome meeting, travel to the Stardome Observatory and Planetarium, for an evening with an astronomer exploring the southern hemisphere skies at this research and education facility. Marvel at star clusters, gas cloud nebulae and star patterns that can only be seen from this latitude.

Day 2: Rangitoto Island and T膩maki Paenga Hira Auckland Museum

After breakfast, you will take the scenic ferry to the volcanic Rangitoto Island. Once there, a gentle climb will take you through several lava fields and native forests to the top of this 600-year-old symmetrical shield volcano cone. Luckily, it鈥檚 dormant and there are lava caves and tunnels to explore on your way up (remember to bring a small torch). The return ferry journey gives you a magnificent view of the North Shore of Auckland.

In the afternoon you will visit the T膩maki Paenga Hira Auckland Museum which house exhibits on evolution and the natural world from both a western and M膩ori perspective, along with history, M膩ori treasures and New Zealand鈥檚 involvement in several conflicts.

Day 3: Waitomo caves and onto Rotorua

Today, you drive to Waitomo and visit its extensive glow-worm studded underground cave system by boat. Glide silently through this ancient world, 30 million years in the making, as you experience its serene ambience. Local M膩ori guides will bring the history of the caves to life for you whilst explaining its natural phenomena. The highlight is the vast Ruakuri cave which features waterfalls, limestone stalactites and stalagmites, fossilized seashells (as it was once a seabed) plus the opportunity to get up close with the glow-worms.

In the late afternoon, after arriving in Rotorua, you will check into the Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua for two nights. A lakeside town known for its geothermal activity and M膩ori culture.

Day 4: Waimangu volcanic valley and Waiotapu

In the morning, you will visit the Waimangu volcanic valley. Site of a major 1886 eruption that led to the world鈥檚 youngest geothermal valley. Here you will explore craters, hot water springs, beautiful geothermal features, unusual plant life, brilliantly coloured microbiology and a wide array of birds.  Finishing with a tranquil cruise around Lake Rotomahana to view the stunning pink and white terraces.

You will then travel a short distance to the surreal beauty of Waiotapu. A large sinter apron and highly active geothermal area covering 18 square miles with colourful hot springs and boiling sulphuric mud.

In the evening, you can relax or enjoy an optional evening visit to a M膩ori cultural performance held at a traditional marae meeting place. Here you will learn about the origins of the M膩ori, their journey to New Zealand and how these proud people have upheld the traditions of their ancestors. Experience M膩ori rituals, enjoy a concert and then the Hangi, an earth oven meal (optional extra approximately NZ$120).

Day 5: Tongariro National Park via Lake Taupo and Huka Falls

This morning, travel towards Tongariro National Park via Lake Taupo, stopping to experience some of the region鈥檚 most impressive natural wonders. Visit the spectacular Huka Falls, where the Waikato River surges through a narrow volcanic gorge, before continuing to the dramatic Aratiatia Rapids, where the gates of the hydroelectric dam open to release a powerful rush of water through the rocky gorge. Continue through the Wairakei geothermal field, New Zealand鈥檚 first geothermal area developed for electricity generation, where you鈥檒l stop at a lookout over the power station to see steam rising from the network of pipes across the landscape.

Continue to the Tokaanu Thermal Pools, where naturally heated mineral waters have been enjoyed by generations of Ng膩ti Kurauia people for their restorative properties, cooking and flax preparation. Take the opportunity for a relaxing soak before exploring the nearby thermal area, with steaming pools and bubbling mud pots. In the evening, check in to Park Hotel Ruapehu, with stunning views of the surrounding volcanic peaks.

In the evening you will check-in to the Park Hotel Ruapehu which has stunning views of the nearby volcanoes.

Day 6: Tongariro Park including Mount Ruapehu

After breakfast, you will explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tongariro Park including Mount Ruapehu, the largest active volcano in New Zealand and the highest point on North Island with three peaks over 2,700 m high. You will enjoy a two-hour walk to the Taranaki Falls and enjoy fantastic views of Mount Ruapehu.

You will have an option to extend the walk by another 3 hours to the Tama Lakes, two volcanic explosion crater lakes between Mount Ruapehu and Mount Ng膩uruhoe (approximately NZ$120).

In the evening, dinner will be served at the Park Hotel Ruapehu.

Day 7: Drive to Wellington聽and visit Te Papa Tongarewa

Travel south through the dramatic landscapes of the North Island towards Wellington, New Zealand鈥檚 vibrant capital city. Upon arrival, visit Te Papa Tongarewa, the national museum of New Zealand, where fascinating exhibitions explore the country鈥檚 natural history, M膩ori heritage, culture and geology.

After your visit, enjoy some free time to explore Wellington at your own pace, from its waterfront and caf茅s to its creative neighbourhoods and renowned culinary scene, before settling into your accommodation.

Enjoy dinner together in the evening.

Day 8: Wellington departure

If you are finishing today, we will transfer you to Wellington Airport for your return journey. 

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If you would like to extend your time in New Zealand and visit the South Island, we suggest our Glaciology and geology: South Island, New Zealand tour.

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Please note: The nature of this type of travel requires flexibility and you should allow for alternatives. While our partners Intrepid Travel will endeavour to operate the tour as described they reserve the right to change the trip itinerary, which may be subject to alteration without prior notice due to local circumstances or events. You will be visiting many rural locations and there may be situations outside of their control. Despite all the best planning in the world, things can go astray, but Intrepid鈥檚 highly trained and resourceful tour leaders are skilled at managing changing circumstances while on tour.

Highlights

• Travel with Dr Finnigan Illsley-Kemp, gaining expert insight into the North Island鈥檚 volcanic geology
• Visit Rangitoto Island, Auckland鈥檚 youngest volcano, formed by eruptions around 600 years ago
• Explore Waitomo Caves, a limestone network lit by glowing bioluminescent glowworms
• Experience Taupo鈥檚 volcanic wonders, from Huka Falls and Aratiatia Rapids to geothermal landscapes and relaxing Tokaanu Thermal Pools
• Discover Wairakei Geothermal Field and its powerful underground geothermal systems
• Experience Rotorua and Wai-O-Tapu鈥檚 geysers, hot springs and surreal volcanic landscapes
• Explore Tongariro National Park, home to three active volcanoes and UNESCO World Heritage status
• Visit Auckland鈥檚 Stardome Observatory & Planetarium for immersive journeys through space
• Discover Wellington, New Zealand鈥檚 vibrant capital of culture, science and coastal scenery
• Travel in a small group of just 16 guests for a more personal, immersive experience

Meet the expert

Dr. Finnigan Illsley-Kemp

Finn is a Senior Research Fellow at Victoria University of Wellington where he primarily research’s the active volcanoes of Aotearoa New Zealand. Originally from the UK, he has called New Zealand home for over the past six years. While his expertise is in earthquake seismology, he strives to produce research that spans traditional disciplines. He has published studies incorporating geochemistry, geodesy, numerical modelling, and structural geology. He aims to create impactful research outcomes and regularly provide scientific advice to local and national government agencies.

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Tour leader

In addition to the science expert you will be accompanied throughout by an English-speaking tour leader provided by our partner for this tour, Intrepid Travel. The best people to show you the heart of a destination are those who live there. Tour leaders aren’t just local guides: they will be your teacher, travel guru and enthusiastic purveyor of grassroots experiences. They will also be able to offer insights on the country’s history and culture and will be on hand to sort all the logistics of the trip and to answer any questions you may have.

What’s included

• Briefings and walking seminars from science expert
• Accommodation on bed and breakfast basis
• Full touring itinerary including coaches, trains and boats
• Arrival/departure group airport transfers for those on the suggested group flights
• Breakfast daily, lunch on day 7, and dinners on days 1, 4, 6, 8. During the final dinner, guests will be joined by group starting South Island tour
• Entry to all sites and attractions
• Services of tour leader throughout the tour
• 24-hour support

What’s not included

• Travel insurance
• International flights
• New Zealand International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy – NZ$100
• Private arrival/departure transfers for those arrival on different flights to the suggested group flight option
• Gratuities for local guides, drivers and porters
• Visa/ETA (if applicable)
• Single supplement – 拢460
• Optional extra excursions (approximate prices are given and you will be able to decide during the tour which of these you undertake)

Booking administration 

This tour is operated by our trusted tour operator partner Intrepid Travel on behalf of 91av Discovery Tours. To ensure a seamless experience, Intrepid Travel has a dedicated, specially trained team who are experts on all 91av Discovery Tours. From the moment you book until you return home, this specialist team will be your primary point of contact, managing all aspects of your reservation, including processing your deposit and balance payments, issuing travel documentation and providing pre-departure information. They will also be on hand to assist with any questions about the tour, your booking or your travel arrangements. 

How to get there 

This tour begins in Auckland and ends in Wellington, New Zealand. Please speak to Intrepid Travel, who can offer advice and book flights for those travelling from the UK.

Pace and physicality

Whilst there will be times of mild-exertion during this expedition there will also be plenty of time to relax in the quality accommodation we have chosen and onboard the luxury tour coaches.

As you can tell from the itinerary, you need to be comfortable walking a few miles every day on uneven surfaces, loose underfoot and some inclines. We have made some of the activities optional, which allows you to set the pace of the tour by deciding how much of it you participate in.

Whilst this is not a hiking expedition, because of the location and nature of some the phenomena visited, we strongly recommend good walking shoes. Along with sunscreen, sun hat, a light rain jacket and warm layers. Temperatures can change quickly. Bring a waterbottle, as some of the areas visited are quite remote and a torch for the underground adventures. Plus, a swimming costume if you would like to soak in a geothermal pool (we highly recommend it).

Solo travellers

All of our tours, cruises, expeditions and weekenders are perfect for solo travellers. If you want your own room, you will need to pay a solo supplement of 拢460 for this tour. However, if you are happy to share a room with a fellow guest of the same sex, we will do all we can to match you with another guest so you do not have to pay the solo room supplement.

Accommodations

Grand Millennium Hotel, Auckland

Situated in the heart of this vibrant city, this modern 4-star hotel has a pool, gym, two restaurants and free wifi. All rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows to enjoy the views and the famous Skytower is only 6 minutes鈥� walk away.

Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua

Situated in the geothermal hotspot of Rotorua and overlooking the lake, this award winning 4-star hotel is super comfortable. It鈥檚 adjacent to Rotorua Museum, the vibrant city centre and the Polynesian Spa complex, plus a 25-minute walk from the Te Puia geothermal valley.

Park Hotel Ruapehu

 A relaxed and friendly hotel with views of Mounts Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe (better known as Mt Doom in The Lord of the Rings), which you can enjoy from the outdoor hot tubs.

West Plaza Hotel Wellington

This 4-star hotel in the heart of Wellington with spacious and comfortable rooms.

Please note: If required for reasons beyond our control, we reserve the right to substitute alternative accommodation of equal or higher quality or adapt the itinerary if required.