Mount Cook and Lake Tekapo
Enjoy one of New Zealand's most scenic drives towards World Heritage site Aoraki Mt Cook National Park with beautiful mountains and lakes.
Volcanic Heartland
The centre of New Zealand’s North Island is also the heart of the countries volcanic activity. At its most active some 2,000 years ago, the region is now a great spot to witness bubbling mud pools, gushing geysers and huge lakes.
Rotorua is a steaming, hissing landscape complete with exploding geysers along with a strong Maori history whose presence dates to their exploration of the area in the 14th century.
Lake Taupo was the result of the most violent volcanic eruption the world has seen in the past 5,000 years – the ash affected the sunsets as far away as Europe and China. This area is now a hub for some fantastic walking, fishing, boating and many other outdoor pursuits.
Rotorua
Rotorua is a steaming, hissing landscape complete with exploding geysers along with a strong Maori history whose presence dates to their exploration of the area in the 14th century.
Lake Taupo was the result of the most violent volcanic eruption the world has seen in the past 5000 years – the ash affected the sunsets as far away as Europe and China. This area is now a hub for some fantastic walking, fishing, boating and many other outdoor pursuits.
- Experience Maori culture from tribal meeting grounds to fascinating myths and legends
- Journey to Matamata, home of the hobbits
- Take a helicopter flight to White Island, an active volcano
Tongariro Crossing and Lake Taupo
- Lunar landscapes and emerald lakes on the Tongariro day walk
- Stay at the luxury Huka Lodge and witness the power of the Huka Falls
- Fly fishing, kayaking, cycling and sky diving – all available around Lake Taupo
When is the best time to walk the Tongariro Crossing?
This one day walk can be done year-round although the most popular time to do it is between November and April, during the summer months. Tackled during the winter months between July and September the scenery can be spectacular although much of the track is covered in snow and ice so a mountain guide is recommended.
The weather at any time of the year can be unpredictable and this can, of course, affect visibility and views. During peak season around 1,000 people can embark on the hike each day so pre-booking is advisable.
Experiences
Tell us what you love doing and we’ll curate a journey that’s perfect for you.
Idea
New Zealand
New Zealand – South Island Self-drive
The most dramatic of New Zealand’s two islands, this self-drive holiday explores the South Island in-depth, taking in the best of the magnificent scenery and wildlife on offer. The South Island is the most scenically stunning of New Zealand’s two islands and…
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Ultimate New Zealand Self-Drive
This 21-day self-drive itinerary offers a fantastic introduction to the great outdoors of New Zealand and covers highlights of both the North and the South Island. Wildlife tours, scenic flights, glacier adventures, overnight cruises and more.
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New Zealand – Luxury Honeymoon
Discover both North and South Islands in style. This is the perfect honeymoon for intrepid newlyweds. With a theme of pure indulgence throughout, this holiday to New Zealand achieves the perfect balance of adventure and pampering. We put this itinerary together based…
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New Zealand Cruise – Auckland to Milford Sound
Over 13 days cruise from Auckland on the North Island to the dramatic beauty of Fiordland on the South Island. Access remote and pristine wilderness areas in search of culture and wildlife, unique to New Zealand. This cruise offers a different perspective…
Idea
New Zealand
New Zealand – South Island Self-drive
The most dramatic of New Zealand’s two islands, this self-drive holiday explores the South Island in-depth, taking in the best of the magnificent scenery and wildlife on offer. The South Island is the most scenically stunning of New Zealand’s two…
Idea
New Zealand
Ultimate New Zealand Self-Drive
This 21-day self-drive itinerary offers a fantastic introduction to the great outdoors of New Zealand and covers highlights of both the North and the South Island. Wildlife tours, scenic flights, glacier adventures, overnight cruises and more.
Idea
New Zealand
New Zealand – Luxury Honeymoon
Discover both North and South Islands in style. This is the perfect honeymoon for intrepid newlyweds. With a theme of pure indulgence throughout, this holiday to New Zealand achieves the perfect balance of adventure and pampering. We put this itinerary…
Idea
New Zealand
New Zealand Cruise – Auckland to Milford Sound
Over 13 days cruise from Auckland on the North Island to the dramatic beauty of Fiordland on the South Island. Access remote and pristine wilderness areas in search of culture and wildlife, unique to New Zealand. This cruise offers a…
Explore other regions
Nelson and Marlborough
Marlborough basks in year-round sunshine, providing perfect conditions for walking, mountain biking, sea kayaking and vineyard explorations.
Christchurch and Kaikoura
The Canterbury landscape covers the northeastern part of New Zealand’s South Island and ranges from miles of silvery beach to the jagged…
Dunedin and the Catlins
The Otago Peninsula is rich in flora and fauna with diverse wildlife, idyllic fishing villages and rolling green pastures.
South Island West Coast and Glaciers
This strip of the South Island boasts five of New Zealand’s 14 national parks and is a rugged land of wild beaches,…
Queenstown and Wanaka
Today Queenstown and the nearby Fiordland National Park is treasured for its magnificent scenery and adventure opportunities.
Bay of Islands
With a sub-tropical climate, you can enjoy beach and water activities, explore one of the many nature trails, visit the ancient Kauri…
Wellington and Martinborough Wine Regions
A fine harbour city and a centre for culture and the arts it is also home to New Zealand’s Parliament, Victoria University…
Hawkes Bay and Napiers Wineries
New Zealand's leading producer of red wines and has the greatest concentration of Art Deco architecture.
Auckland and the Coromandel
Auckland is New Zealand’s largest and most multicultural city and is known as the City of Sails for its fantastic sailing opportunities.
Why Choose Steppes?
Our knowledge and expertise set us apart. So too our curiosity. It is this that drives us to create a journey that is really bespoke to you, all the while ensuring we travel and operate sustainably.
Are you ready to discover extraordinary once again?
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