From rafting the rapids on an underground river to skiing on Mount Ruaphehu, an active volcano, the Thermal Explorer Highway will introduce you to experiences you never thought possible. Easily accessible from Auckland, the Waikato is a region of green rolling hills criss-crossed with white rail fences and lanes lined with oak trees. It is the gateway to Waitomo and its remarkable underground labyrinth of caves. The heart of the North Island is dominated by volcanic activity, from the tempestuous geothermal field of Rotorua to the triad of volcanoes that stand shoulder to shoulder on the Central Plateau, and Lake Taupo, the crater of a massive eruption many centuries ago.

REST & RELAX

Enjoy the ultimate in relaxation as you soak your cares away in the bubbling waters of a fern-fringed hot mineral pool in Rotorua, Taupo or Ruapehu.

LUXURY EXPERIENCE

Slip between wonderfully soft sheets and rest your head on a down pillow in one of New Zealand’s top luxury accommodation retreats, dreaming of the freshwater trout fishing trip you’ll embark on tomorrow.

NATURAL EXPERIENCE

Lose all power of speech as you gaze up at a million twinkling glow-worms arranged across the ceiling of a soaring underground cavern in the depths of a Waitomo cave.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCE

Feel a tingle down your spine as you witness a stirring Maori powhiri then satisfy your taste-buds feasting on a traditional hangi steamed underground.

BUDGET TRAVEL

Take a relaxing riverside walk and explore the fantastic themed displays at Hamilton Gardens, one of New Zealand’s top botanical gardens.

ADRENALINE-RUSH

Breathe deeply and trust the ropes as you step off the edge and abseil 100 metres into a gaping tomo (Maori for ‘cave’) in the Waitomo forest.