Top 10 Tours in Waikato Region, North Island

August 18, 2021 Darwin Bolte

Waikato (/ˈwaɪkɑːtɔː/ or /ˈwaɪkætoʊ/) is a local government region of the upper North Island of New Zealand. It covers the Waikato, Hauraki, Coromandel Peninsula, the northern King Country, much of the Taupo District, and parts of Rotorua District. It is governed by the Waikato Regional Council.
Restaurants in Waikato Region

1. Cruise Kakariki to the Maori Rock Carvings

Sail Barbary eco-sailing Taupo, Berths 9 &, 10 Redoubt Street, Nukuhau, Taupō 3330, New Zealand Sail Barbary - Eco Sailing Taupo
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5.0 based on 9 reviews

We have been cruising to the iconic Maori Rock Carvings since 1982. This all-year-round activity offers relaxation, fun and adventure on the water, the Kiwi way. Get right up close to this culturally significant 46 foot (14m) high rock art. Excellent, amusing and current commentary on Lake Taupo, the volcanoes and the carvings.

Inclusions: Restroom on board, Coffee and/or Tea, Toasty warm ponchos, Evening cruises include a glass of wine/beer/soft drink , Alcoholic beverages available for purchase, Swimming is encouraged

Exclusions: Hotel pick up and drop off, Additional food and drinks, Gratuities

Reviewed By Grzgz

It was a pure pleasure to see the carvings on a great sunny day on a boat that does not take too many ppl on board. The only problem was that there was no wind, but the electlic engine that the boat has is making no noise and so the trip was very relaxing and successful. Highly recommended!

2. Avo of goodness: 3 Hour Chilled out Sail

1 Buffalo Beach Road, Whitianga 3510, New Zealand Boom Sailing
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5.0 based on 10 reviews

Our afternoon trip departs the beach at 1:45pm and returns at 4:45pm. Plan to sail around the beautiful coastline on Fully Charged and visit local iconic locations, setting anchor for half an hour at Cathedral Cove. Either relax on the boat, or have a swim or snorkel in the marine reserve with the amazing fish life. Your trip includes a complementary chilled local beer or New Zealand wine along with some smoked local seafood. Every trip is different. Help to sail or sit back on our comfy beanbags, soak up the scenery and relax. Using wind power as opposed to engines and fuel allows us to take guests out with minimal impact on the environment.

Inclusions: Your trip includes a complementary chilled local beer or New Zealand wine along with some smoked local seafood., Use of Snorkelling equipment

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Reviewed By jfsoijioaer

We did a 4 hour private sailing with a group of 6 adults and 4 children. It was the best experience and something we will not forget. Highly recommend this for anyone that is after an amazing time out on the water. The crew were amazing and made the day something to remember.

3. Maori Rock Carvings - Taupo Sailing Adventures - Kindred Spirit

14 Redoubt Street, Waikato 3330, New Zealand Kindred Spirit
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5.0 based on 8 reviews

Experience the beauty of a scenic sailing tour to the Māori Rock Carvings, one of the most extraordinary contemporary carvings in the world. Only view-able from the water, the likeness of Ngātoroirangi towers 14-meters above Lake Taupō, surrounded by over 40 smaller carvings.. Escape from hectic life for a while and enjoy the breathtaking views around. Relax on Lake Taupōs largest charter yacht “Kindred Spirit” and enjoy the superior comfort with a large deck space and a lounge under deck for up to 12 people. Listen to our experienced skippers and learn about the history of the lake. Give the crew a hand hoisting the sails and take a turn on the wheel or just snuggle under some blankets and enjoy the wide selection of drinks. Kindred Spirit sails under full sails as much as possible or gently meanders, when it is truly calm, by a quite inboard diesel engine. Take a dip and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the largest freshwater lake in Australasia (weather dependent).

Inclusions: Live commentary on board, Blankets, Wet weather gear, free pizza (if option selected), Selection of non-alcoholic drinks (if option is selected), Selection of beer and wine (if option is selected), BYO, Longest swim stop out of any company on the lake (weather dependent), Restroom on board

Exclusions: Accommodation pickup and drop-off, Food and drinks (if option not selected)

4. Ocean Leopard Tours - Cathedral Cove Boat Tour

Whitianga Wharf, Esplanade, Whitianga 3510, New Zealand Ocean Leopard Tours
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5.0 based on 83 reviews

Jump on board with Ocean Leopard Tours for the tour of your lifetime! Our custom built boat will carry you in ultimate comfort to some of the most beautiful spots you've ever been to, there really is no better way to see Cathedral Cove and the rest of this stunning coastline. Need an easily accessible and spacious boat? Want cushioned seats with backrests? We've got you covered. Need experienced local guides who love their job? We've got you covered. Need absolute safety and sun protection from New Zealand's harsh sun? We've definitely got you covered! Choose Ocean Leopard Tours today and you won't be disappointed.

Inclusions: Use of Snorkelling equipment

Exclusions: Restroom on board

Reviewed By LanceS544

Awesome experience and guide Justin made it a lot of fun definitely would do it again.Had to cut the tour short but was given a$50 discount because the seas got a bit rough but was a lot of laughs and rewarding thanks

5. Glass Bottom Boat Whitianga Cathedral Cove Cruise

Whitianga Wharf, Esplanade, Whitianga 3510, New Zealand Glass Bottom Boat Whitianga
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5.0 based on 295 reviews

Our unique tour is the only one to show you the marine life without getting wet. The glass panels provide a clear window to spotting marine life. Our crew are passionate about the ocean, conservation and our marine reserve.

Inclusions: professional and friendly crew

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Reviewed By Discussted

This was amazing!!! Our crew Amy and Julian were just the best. They definitely need recognition. Will definitely be back with my husband If your in whitianga this is an absolute must do!!!

6. Adventurous Eco Zipline Tour in Coromandel

380 Driving Creek Road, Coromandel 3506, New Zealand Coromandel Zipline Tours
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4.9 based on 65 reviews

Coromandel Zipline Tours is a fully charitable company with all the profits from your tour going towards restoring and preserving New Zealand’s native forests and supporting the New Zealand clay arts.

Inclusions: Safety Equipment, Entry/Admission - Coromandel Zipline Tours, Two Awesome Guides, Transport by Rail Car, Wet weather clothing

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Reviewed By MezzyMay

I visited the zip line with family. It was my second time and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience again. It is a very professionally run tour. Our guides, Brit and Rae were both very able and warm and friendly with all of the tourists. It is a well run operation. Safety is paramount. The train ride up to the first zip line is a fun way to start, and to see how Barry Brickell started his dream. The zip lines are varying in length and height and loads of fun for all ages.

7. The Maori Carvings Half Day Kayak

54 Spa Road, Taupō 3330, New Zealand Canoe & Kayak Taupo Tours
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4.9 based on 125 reviews

Glide your kayak over Lake Taupo's crystal clear waters as you paddle to the awe-inspiring Maori Rock Carvings on this 4-hour guided tour.  Soak in the view across the Lake to 3 live volcano's while you hear the history of the carvings, various Maori legends and facts of the local area from your guide before enjoying rock jumps and a swim in Australasia's largest freshwater Lake. A must-do while in Taupo!

Inclusions: Light refreshments, Kayak Tour, Kayak Equipment, Photos

Exclusions: Lunch, Hotel pickup and drop-off

Reviewed By JoCNZ1980

A great family experience with knowledgeable guides. As a family of four with two teenagers it ticked all the boxes catering for our different fitness levels. The stop off at the spa was lovely and the river in autumn is stunning!

8. Kayak Glowworm Tour

396 Horahora Road, Waikato 3484, New Zealand Lake District Adventures
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4.9 based on 233 reviews

This is a once in a life-time experience and different from any other Glowworm Tour you'll go on! Our adventure begins late afternoon / early evening at Lake District Adventures' base in South Waikato. Paddle along the southern edge of Lake Karapiro, over the old submerged Horahora Dam that produced electricity for the early Waihi goldfields. Learn the history of the Horahora village and enjoy the twilight & silence of being on the water as the day draws to an end. As night arrives over the lake , paddle slowly up the Pokaiwhenua Stream and through the canyon carved out by water over many hundreds of years. Native ferns & trees drape over you, bird life is all around. When darkness falls we float silently back downstream, being guided by the glow worms on either side sparkling like Christmas lights.

Inclusions: Kayak, PFD, Splash Pants/Jackets, Wetshoes

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Reviewed By Hamitee

This was an awesome experience for the young students as well as adults who went in small groups. Everyone enjoyed their time with the exciting and knowledgeable instructor. He made the most of the time we had to ensure safety as well as excitement. I think there will be a few kids wanting to take their parents along next time!

9. Tongariro Crossing Return Transfer from Turangi

Backyard Tours
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4.9 based on 38 reviews

Welcome to the heart of Tongariro National Park amongst our sacred Volcanic Mountains Pihanga, Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu like nowhere else in the World. On Journey enjoy our learnings about Manaakitanga – caring & safety of visitors and Kaitiakitanga – guardianship to preserving life. Locals of Maōri descent born and raised in Turangi Tongariro providing a niche transport service to Aotearoa New Zealand’s known Best one day adventure hike to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing with experienced local transport services. Highly recommended from Manuhiri - Visitor’s ensured safety from our destination Turangi Taupō, World famously known for trout fishing, hiking, biking, river rafting, relaxing walks, geothermal hot pools, stays and a quint friendly environment. Shuttles & transfers are self-guided and naturally has our Maōri blessings, FREE safety photography, FREE use of walking poles, and a FREE cold drink at the END. Department of Conservation Transport Concessionaire Approved.

Inclusions: Transport transfer round trip from Turangi, Local friendly commentary, Naturally our local ‘Maōri blessings’ and acknowledgements, Free photography available from the social media pages, Free usage of walking poles, Free celebratory cold drink at the end

Exclusions: Hiking guide, Meals and drinks, Boots or Clothing

Reviewed By G5479RHpetert

Thank you Backyard Tours for your amazing shuttle service getting us to and from The Tongariro Crossing. You made it very easy for us and it was good to see you waiting at the end with a cold beer in your hand. Yours will be the first business I recommend to friends and family if any of them head that way.

10. 13,000ft Tandem Skydive

590D Koheroa Road, Mangatāwhiri 2474, New Zealand GoSkydive New Zealand
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4.9 based on 50 reviews

Jump with experienced Tandem Masters with years of experience in the industry. We offer a personal experience were our tandem masters will brief you and ensure you are comfortable during the whole experience

Inclusions: Tandem Skydive Harness, Jumpsuit, Hat, and Gloves during winter.

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Reviewed By Calebbaggy

Great experience lovely staff, lovely instructors. Definitely recommend to anyone wanting to do a skydive

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