Champagne Pool, Wai O Tapu, New Zealand

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.

Orakei Korako Geothermal Area, Rotorua, New Zealand
Rotorua, New Zealand

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, New Zealand
Tongariro, New Zealand

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.

Hobbiton, Shire, New Zealand

Middle Earth Experience

Journey to Matamata, wander through the Shire, home of the hobbits and learn how the set was created.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Kayaking at Mine Bay, Lake Taupo, New Zealand

Lake Taupo Activities

Fly fish, kayak, cycle and sky dive – all are available around Lake Taupo.

Huka Lodge, Huka Falls, Taupo, New Zealand

Heli Fly Fishing

Stay at Huka Lodge, witness the power of the Huka Falls and enjoy a day out on a private heli fly fishing trip.

Suggested lodge

Tongariro Crossing, New Zealand

Tongariro Crossing

Hike through the lunar landscapes and emerald lakes of the Tongariro National Park on this one day walk.

Maori Carving, Rotorua, New Zealand

Experience Maori Culture

Visit tribal meeting grounds, learn fascinating myths and legends, create your own piece of greenstone carving and dine on a traditional hangi meal, cooked in an earth oven.

Need Holiday Inspiration?
Browse our New Zealand holiday ideas.

Our New Zealand experts have created and curated these holiday ideas to get you started. Take the time to search through them and find something to spark ideas for a unique adventure.

Where to stay

Some of the wonderful places to stay that we frequently recommended.

Poronui £££££

  • New Zealand
  • Wilderness

Set in 16,000 acres of wilderness, Poronui is a historic fly-fishing, hunting and wilderness retreat. Accommodation consists of seven timber guest cabins, each with large balconies overlooking the Taharua River. In addition, Blake house offers secluded and luxurious private villa accommodation for up to 16 guests or embark on a glamping experience in one of two canvas safari tents on the banks of the river. Share stories around the fireplace with fellow guests, or over pre-dinner drinks before a hearty meal of seasonal produce.

View Property

Solitaire Lodge £££££

  • New Zealand
  • Wilderness

Solitaire Lodge sits amidst native bush, overlooking the serene waters of Lake Tarawera, with the volcanic slopes of Mount Tarawera beyond. The nine suites have a homely feel, all with private balcony and the huge picture windows throughout the hotel ensure all areas, from the free-standing baths to the acclaimed restaurant make the most of the spectacular views. There is no pool or gym, but the lakeside location provides plenty of opportunities, from lake swimming to kayaking and hiking.

View Property

Huka Lodge £££££

  • New Zealand
  • Wilderness

Regularly rated as one of the world’s top retreats, Huka Lodge dates to the 1920s when it was originally a simple fishing lodge. Located on the shores of the Waikato River, a short distance from the cascading Huka Falls, this boutique lodge combines extremely comfortable accommodation with a gourmet dining experience and magical location. The 19 rooms and two cottages are furnished using antiques and historical artwork and all have bifold doors framing the wonderful river views. Facilities include a choice of swimming pools, tennis courts and plenty of experiences from fishing to cycling.

View Property

Explore other regions

Why Choose Steppes?

Our knowledge, curiosity and expertise set us apart, driving us to create remarkable holidays and Beautiful Adventures tailored perfectly to you, carefully curated to help protect and conserve our planet.

Are you ready to Discover Extraordinary?


More about Steppes

F L E X I B I L I T Y P R O M I S E B O O K W I T H C O N F I D E N C E