Australia, New Zealand & the South Pacific - Reputable and interesting North Island tour company?

Hello all,

I will be going to NZ in November, but am too lazy/busy/apathetic/pathetic to plan an itinerary. I have read Kiwi Flyer's wonderful sticky several times, but I still can't get off my butt.

So I have resigned myself to leave the thinking and driving to someone else and join a tour of the North Island (~1 week). I fully understand the trade-off I making and expect to regret this decision. That said, can anyone recommend a good tour or tour company?

Ideally the tour would include some moderate activity (e.g. 1-2 hour hikes, black water rafting at Waitomo) and completely avoid anything to do with wineries.

Thanks.

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Sorry I've been busy travelling. Welcome to Flyer Talk RichardJOtter :)

There are a few companies - some geared to the youth market, and others not. Some tours are fast - speed around the country seeing only the highlights, others more depth and explore things at a slower pace and chances to explore more fully. Do you want a fully organised tour, or a pass where you can hop on and hop off to suit (make your own personalised itinerary)? Perhaps you could tell us a bit more about what you want out of it?

I fit into the middle aged market and tend to prioritize comfort/convenience over cost. Given my limited time (1 week), I would like to speed around the country seeing the highlights and discover which areas I'd like to more fully explore on a future trip.

I was thinking of a fully organised tour but am intrigued by your mention of the hop on/hop off method. I am not too familiar with that type of arrangement.

Thank you.

Too late. I've already taken the trip.

Sorry for bringing up an old thread, but for north island, southisland or north&south island tours I recommend Flying Kiwi Tours (http://www.flyingkiwi.com). Plenty of fun and off the beaten path (camping at bush camps or campgrounds instead of staying at hostels/hotels)