New Zealand’s "Sun and Steam" tour takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes and unique natural features of the North Island. This 6-day journey showcases a blend of geothermal wonders, lush scenery, and vibrant cities. From sunlit shores to steaming geysers, you’ll experience a diverse range of attractions that highlight New Zealand’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
Connectivity (Local)
Getting around during the "Sun and Steam" tour is straightforward and convenient. New Zealand has well-maintained roads and a reliable public transport system. In the cities and towns you'll visit, local transport options include buses, taxis, and rental cars. Many attractions are accessible by walking or short drives. For those who prefer not to drive, shuttle services and local tours offer easy transport between key sights.
Things to Explore
Rotorua’s Geothermal Wonders
Rotorua is the centerpiece of the "Sun and Steam" tour, known for its incredible geothermal activity. The city sits in a geothermal hotspot, where you can see bubbling mud pools, steaming geysers, and natural hot springs. Popular attractions include:
Lake Taupo
Lake Taupo is the largest lake in New Zealand, formed by a massive volcanic eruption. It’s a popular spot for outdoor activities and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Tongariro National Park
This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its volcanic landscapes and dramatic scenery.
Hobbiton Movie Set
Located near Matamata, the Hobbiton Movie Set offers a magical experience for fans of "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" films. Tour the set, see the iconic hobbit holes, and enjoy the picturesque landscapes that inspired the films.
Distance from Nearby Cities
Food Options
New Zealand offers a variety of dining options to suit different tastes. In the cities and towns on the tour, you can enjoy:
Public Transport Options
Nearby Attractions
Unique Selling Points
The "Sun and Steam" tour provides a rich experience of New Zealand’s North Island, combining natural wonders, cultural sites, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re soaking in geothermal pools, hiking through volcanic landscapes, or enjoying scenic views, this tour promises a memorable journey through some of New Zealand’s most iconic attractions.
Everything covered in your booking, plus important pricing notes.
Welcome to the land of the long white cloud: New Zealand! It’s time to meet your Contiki crew and cross Auckland's Harbour Bridge while admiring the 'City of Sails' harbor before starting our journey north to Paihia. We’ll stop off at the stunning yacht marina in Whangārei and check out the quirky exterior of the Hundertwasser Art Centre, a unique architectural project dedicated to the ecological activist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. After lunch, we'll hit the road again towards the Bay of Islands. Upon arrival, we’ll begin with a dose of Kiwi history on a guided tour at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where in 1840 New Zealand officially became a nation of two communities. And because we like to give you that something extra, we’re offering free admission to the Treaty Museum, in case you want to dive deeper into Kiwi history. Tonight, we'll feast like the locals as we enjoy true Kiwiana fish and chips while overlooking the glittering Bay of Islands.
Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland) to Paihia via Whangārei

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