Things to do in the North Island in Spring
Are you ready for a once-in-a-lifetime spring adventure? Let us guide you in discovering the most exciting things to do on the North Island while saving you a significant amount of money on travel arrangements and accommodation. In addition, we can advise you on what to do and see in town, whether you’re an urban explorer or an adventurous outdoor enthusiast. Below are some fun things to do near Rotorua, Hamilton, Taupo & Auckland, where you can enjoy and submerge yourself in the natural beauty of the North Island.
THINGS TO DO NEAR ROTORUA
Kaituna River White Water Rafting
The Okere Falls scenic reserve’s Kaituna River rafting adventure promises plenty of thrills! You’ll paddle through Class 5 white-water rapids on the Kaituna River with an expert guide, including an awesome 21-foot (7-meter) drop-down Tutea Falls, the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall. This 3-hour tour is suitable for adventurous beginners and includes a safety briefing with paddling instruction, all necessary equipment, and round-trip hotel transport from Rotorua.
Volcanicair Tours
Volcanic Air is a Rotorua tourism company that offers helicopter and floatplane flights around volcanic craters, over thermal valleys, and past waterfalls.
Pack your camera, choose your aircraft (remember that helicopter allows you to land on the mountain), and fly over Rotorua.
Hell’s Gate Mud Bath and Spa
Just a 3-minute drive from our beautiful lake-facing hotel, also considered one of the best accommodations in Rotorua (VR Rotorua Lake resort), lies the Hell’s Gate mud spa. It is a historic New Zealand experience, which has been used for the healing properties of geothermal mud and Sulphur mineral water for over 800 years by local Māori. The mud gently exfoliates the skin, and you’ll leave feeling rejuvenated and ready to continue your New Zealand adventure.
VR Rotorua Lake resort
Yes, you read that right, VR Rotorua Lake Resort is considered to be one of the best accommodations in Rotorua, it has everything that you need after a long day. The hotel’s Rotorua restaurant serves the freshest and most delicious international cuisine as well as the finest New Zealand wines. We can help you find a nice glass of New Zealand wine or a glamorous cocktail. Loosen up in the classy and uplifting lounge bar, in the comfortable surroundings, have a pre-or post-dinner drink. Guests have free access to an outdoor pool, two Spa pools, and a Sauna located near Reception. In addition, we have a fully equipped gym where you can prepare for all your activities.
PLACES TO VISIT IN TAUPO
Bungy Jumping
Are you seeking an unrivalled rush? Bungy jump along the Waikato River in Taupo! Upon arrival, you will receive a thorough safety briefing before being led to the cantilever platform for final instructions. As your excitement grows, you will move closer to the edge of the jump deck before plunging 47 metres into the river. Opt-in for a complete body submersion to ramp up the excitement! Take a moment to admire your beautiful surroundings as the bouncing slows.
Hike the Tongariro Crossing
Thousands of eager adventurers visit Tongariro National Park each year between October and May to hike the Tongariro Crossing. This season is no exception. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is regarded as New Zealand’s best one-day trek and one of the top ten single-day treks in the New Zealand.
Many people who have completed the 19.4 km (12 miles) journey will tell you that the climbs can be steep, and the weather can be unpredictable, but it is well worth it in every way. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is located in New Zealand’s oldest national park, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Orakei Korako
This site, located north of Taupo, is one of the most active geothermal areas in the country. Orakai Korako, also known as the “Hidden Valley,” is situated on the Waikato River, which flows into Lake Ohakuri.
The lake in question is an artificial lake formed in 1961 and flooded a large portion of the geothermal site, including several well-known geysers. The region continues to have the most geysers in the country, far outnumbering Wai O Ta Pu. The site is famous for its magnificent silica terraces, formed during a major earthquake in 131 AD.
Huka Prawn Park
Huka Prawn Park, New Zealand’s only prawn farm, is a fun place for the whole family to explore and play. This eccentric aquaculture venture not only produces over 30 tonnes of shrimp per year but also hosts a variety of games and activities. Begin your visit with a guided tour of the prawn nursery and hatchery, followed by a hole-in-one golf challenge, prawn fishing, or soaking your feet in the geothermal footbath. Children will enjoy testing their balance on the adventure walkways and experimenting with the water piano. If you get hungry, you can eat your catch of shrimp or go to the riverside restaurant.
Family accommodation Taupo
Taupo has a lot to offer, with the Great Taupo Lake, Taupo Town Center, Kuratau River, Taharepa Reserve, and other attractions. This spectacular town is home to many extraordinary vacation homes and one of those is VR silver Fern Lodge. Located in Taupo central, this lodge is the place you would want to stay as it is well within reach of every activity and scenic spots in Taupo. Visit Taupo for the private and picturesque family vacation of your dreams!
THINGS TO DO IN HAMILTON
Hobbiton Tours- The Movie Set from The Lord of the Rings & The Hobbiton
In a fascinating 2-hour Guided Tour, you can visit the Hobbiton Movie Set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies on the picturesque private farmland.
The set was rebuilt for The Hobbit and will remain in the same condition as you see in these films and The Lord of the Rings trilogy. During your tour, you will see Hobbit Holes, The Green Dragon Inn, The Mill, a double-arched bridge, and other film-related structures and gardens.
Waitomo Glow-worm Caves
Thousands of magical glow-worms will amaze you as you glide silently by boat through the world-famous Waitomo Glow-worm Caves. Many of the tour guides are descendants of the Māori chief who first explored the cave and can tell you about its fascinating history. The Waitomo Glow-worm Caves are a must-see attraction for any visitor.
Explore the Hamilton Gardens
If you only have one thing to do in Hamilton, make it a stroll through the picturesque Hamilton Gardens. The Hamilton Gardens, which spans 133 acres (54 hectares) along the Waikato River, features 21 themed gardens representing civilisations worldwide and throughout history. There are numerous photo opportunities, a gift shop and a café.
Hamilton Accommodation
All of the above locations are conveniently located from our VR Hamilton accommodation. The hotel is situated in Hamilton Central and on the banks of Waikato River, so you stay close to classy restaurants and all the amenities at your doorstep.
THINGS TO DO IN AUCKLAND
Skyjump- Auckland
By completing New Zealand’s highest Bungy leap from the Sky Tower, which is perched 192 metres above the ground, you’ll be sure to fulfil your adrenaline rush. Your highly skilled jump masters will rope you up securely and talk you carefully up to the edge until you balance your tiptoes, grinning over Auckland’s urban landscape. Before you know it, you’ll be falling at speeds of up to 85 km/h until you reach the ground. After the leap, you’ll be gently placed onto SkyCity square and handed a free ticket to the observation deck for breathtaking views of Auckland.
Skydive- Auckland
Skydive Auckland offers the highest skydiving in New Zealand, with jumps from a thrilling 20,000 feet. Imagine freefalling at 200+ km/h with a spectacular and unique backdrop of New Zealand’s east and west coasts. From 20,000 feet, you can see Waiheke Island, Piha Beach, Mt Ruapehu, and even Mt Taranaki. After freefall, you will enjoy the peace and tranquillity of a beautiful parachute ride.
Visit Rangitoto Island
At sunset, take a kayak trip to Rangitoto Island to take in the breathtaking views of Waitemata Harbour. Discover New Zealand’s most prominent and youngest volcano, which has only been active for 600 years, as you make your way through old lava fields on a leisurely walk to the top of the island.
Auckland Central accommodations
If you want to enjoy the urban life of a hustling and bustling city along with some delicious food, look no further than the VR accommodations in Auckland Central. VR hotels have four centrally located hotels that are elegant and fully equipped to be your ‘home away from home.’
The Quadrant
Style and sophistication meet luxury accommodation Auckland at the Quadrant Hotels & Suites. With gorgeous rooms and even better views, you’ll quickly discover why the Quadrant Auckland Hotels have secured a 4.5 Qualmark star rating.
VR Queen St
Looking hotels on Queen Street Auckland and a modern stay at an affordable rate? Look no further than VR Queen Street! With gorgeous interiors, a convenient location, and stellar views of the city, what more could you want? Whether you’re in town for business or pleasure, VR Queen Street is the place to stay.
VR Auckland City
VR Auckland City offers a stylish and quality stay in the heart of the city at an unbelievably affordable price, making it one of the more extraordinary apartment hotels in Auckland. VR Auckland City makes a comfortable accommodation for anyone visiting with a family or on a solo trip.
Ascotia Off Queen
Looking for a getaway at an affordable price? Or heading to the heart of Auckland for work? Make your visit a breeze with Ascotia off Queen. The convenient location off Queen Street means you’re right on the doorstep to explore all Auckland has to offer.
So, what’s on your list of things to do in North Island!
So, there you have it, our guide to the best things to do on New Zealand’s north Island. As you can see, there is a lot to do and see on the north island alone! However, the longer you have, the more you can see. While there are numerous accommodation options throughout New Zealand’s North Island, we at VR Hotels would be delighted to host you during your vacation.