What to do and see in Manawatu-Wanganui Region, North Island: The Best Tours

June 22, 2021 Jeremy Dunfee

Discover the best top things to do in Manawatu-Wanganui Region, New Zealand including Tongariro Self-Guided Audio Tour, Half Day Volcanic Explorer Guided Walk , Mt Ruapehu Crater Lake Guided Walk, Ultimate New Zealand - Hiking New Zealand - 23 Days, Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Overnighter, Splash'N Dash, Kakapo 21 Day New Zealand Small Group Tour, Tongariro Crossing Return Transfer from Turangi, Ultimate North - Hiking New Zealand - 8 days.
Restaurants in Manawatu-Wanganui Region

1. Tongariro Self-Guided Audio Tour

Mount Ngauruhoe, Mt Ngauruhoe, Manawatu-Wanganui 4691, New Zealand Audio Tourist/Citywalksz Ltd
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

Download a vibrantly-narrated mp3 audio guide combined with a map detailing the area of your tour. Experience a hiker’s self-guided audio tour of the widely popular Tongariro Crossing. This tour will take you on a 7 hour journey through this cultural and geographical mecca of New Zealand. During this walk you will see huge craters and colourful lakes while being mesmerised by the beautiful and astounding nature of New Zealand.

Inclusions: Zip folder of audio files and map, Self-Guided Audio Tour, Self-paced, Downloadable link to download mp3 file and map

Exclusions: Audio Device, Transportation, Food/drinks, Headphones

Reviewed By R7056KVmarkh

Read the previous review and was fore-warned to download the tour before setting off. It worked well and the information was current and relevant. Nice little city with eclectic shopping and good food.

2. Half Day Volcanic Explorer Guided Walk

53 Carroll Street, National Park 3989, New Zealand Adrift Tongariro
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5.0 based on 5 reviews

If time is limited and you are unable to spend the whole day walking the Tongariro Crossing, then the 4-hour Half Day Volcanic Explorer Guided Walk is for you. Enjoy the beautiful landscape of the Tongariro National Park with this half day tour. When possible, we will start on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing track and head up to Soda Springs before returning to the start. At Soda Springs we give you the option to upgrade to the full day walk and join in with the full day guided party to complete the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. We will talk and show you all things relevant to Tongariro and New Zealand including recent and past eruptions, geology, flora and fauna discovery and settlement of NZ. These are the most popular Tongariro sites we choose from and include in the 4 hours: Lake Rotopounamu, Taranaki Falls, Silica Rapids, Soda Springs, Pukeonake, Whakapapanui River, Tawhai falls, Meads Wall.

Inclusions: Professional and qualified guide/s., All mountain equipment required (including crampons and ice axes during winter)., Footwear and clothing to supplement up to a NZD40 free allowance., Live tour commentary provided in English., Transport between the Adrift Tongariro base (53 Carroll St, National Park Village) and the activity.

Exclusions: Beverages, bottled water, or snacks, Lunch, Gratuities, Return transfers from Whakapapa Village are available on request for an additional charge.

Reviewed By rmtremble

What stunning day walking the Tongariro Crossing with Hiro as our guide. Professional, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to spend the day with. We would highly recommend Adrift.

3. Mt Ruapehu Crater Lake Guided Walk

53 Carroll Street, National Park 3989, New Zealand Adrift Tongariro
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

For those who like a manageable challenge, try a guided walk to the top of Mt Ruapehu, the largest of the three volcanoes in Tongariro National Park. The walk begins at the Whakapapa Ski area at the top of the Bruce Road on Mt. Ruapehu. Enjoy lunch (included until 31 March 2021, purchase as additional from 01 April 2021 onward). on top of the North Island highest volcano from where you can gaze down into the geothermal waters of the crater lake. Please note this is not a track and is less stable walking than on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Our guides are personable, friendly, qualified and ready to guide you. Adrift provides instruction, transport, equipment and gear hire. We guide every day and guarantee trip departures with wind, rain, snow and even shine.

Inclusions: Professional and qualified guide/s., All mountain equipment required (including crampons and ice axes during winter), Footwear and clothing to supplement up to a NZD40 free allowance., Lunch until 31 March 2021, purchase as additional from 01 April 2021 onward, Live tour commentary provided in English., Transport between the Adrift Tongariro base (53 Carroll St, National Park Village) and the activity.

Exclusions: Beverages, bottled water, or snacks, Gratuities, Transport between accommodation and Adrift Tongariro base , from 01 April 2021 onwards

Reviewed By rmtremble

What stunning day walking the Tongariro Crossing with Hiro as our guide. Professional, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to spend the day with. We would highly recommend Adrift.

4. Ultimate New Zealand - Hiking New Zealand - 23 Days

Auckland 1010, New Zealand Hiking New Zealand
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

The Ultimate North is the ideal choice for those who have a little less time but want to experience the very best that the North Island, New Zealand, can offer. Hike into a river-side hut in the middle of Jurassic-like rainforest. Explore thermal areas in Rotorua. Trek the high sections of the remote Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk deep in the magical rain forests of Te Urewera. Relax in lodges in beautiful locations. Discover the surreal volcanic wonderland of Tongariro National Park, staying high above the world in an alpine hut. The Ultimate North has short hikes, as well as two overnight hikes staying in backcountry huts.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner, Dinner, Dinner, Breakfast, Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Dinner

Exclusions: Personal Hiking Equipment

Reviewed By Discover820406

I completed a four-day hike in Arthurs Pass with Hiking NZ. Not having a lot of hiking experience I was apprehensive about what to expect. However, the trip exceeded expectations, the scenery was stunning, the days although long were rewarding and our guide let us take our time. Couldn't recommend more

5. Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Active Outdoor Adventures
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5.0 based on 5 reviews

We specialize in transfers to the world famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing trek. Locally owned and operated family business with the convenience of cultural insights, genuine local hospitality & drivers. Our customers have access to the only secure, all day Car Park.

Inclusions: Cultural insights on arrival, Safety briefing

Exclusions: Guide, Food

Reviewed By journeywKP

We had a large group use the shuttle service. James our driver provided friendly door to door service from and to our accommodation. I enjoyed the brief historical information he provided and it was nice to start our walk off with a karakia. The cold beer at the end of the walk was particularly enjoyable!!! I would highly recommend this company. Thanks

6. Overnighter

985 State Highway 4, Manunui 3992, New Zealand Blazing Paddles Outdoor Adventures
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5.0 based on 4 reviews

A two day paddle, starting at Cherry Grove, Taumarunui (known to the local Māori as Ngāhuinga) you'll paddle along the upper Whanganui River to Whakahoro. Overnight camping at the beautiful Ohinepane Camping Ground (Toilet facilities at site).

Inclusions: Personal Locator Beacon, Comprehensive safety briefing prior to departure, Secure vehicle storage, Hot shower on return to base, A hot or cold refreshment at the end of your journey

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Reviewed By SueSmithNelson

A huge thank you Maree for organising such a wonderful ‘Forgotten Highway’ experience for us 4 friends when it seemed that the ‘season’ was over and nothing was available. Your suggested itinerary was perfect & we certainly did enjoy our day! It was an extra treat having you join us as our guide along with Sam our jet boat driver so none of us missed any info during the boat ride. You both really made it a wonderful experience and not just a scenic adventure ???? Thank Fritz & Heather too of Posh Pioneers for looking after us so well - an awesome experience. Such a cool spot, great food & coffee (a miracle as they are ‘off the grid’) and lots of fun ???? Thanks too for your tips for the DIY portion of the rest of our Forgotten Hiway trip. It was a journey we’ll always remember.

7. Splash'N Dash

985 State Highway 4, Manunui 3992, New Zealand Blazing Paddles Outdoor Adventures
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

A one day paddle, starting at Cherry Grove, Taumarunui (known to the local Māori as Ngāhuinga) you'll paddle along the upper Whanganui River to Ohinepane and experience plenty of rapids along the way. Great for those with limited time. You can also take a pit stop at the lavender farm along the way for a cuppa! All tours include: • Personal Locator Beacon • A hot or cold refreshment at the end of your journey • Secure vehicle storage • Hot shower on return to base

Inclusions: Personal Locator Beacon, Comprehensive safety briefing prior to departure, Secure vehicle storage, Hot shower on return to base, A hot or cold refreshment at the end of your journey

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Reviewed By SueSmithNelson

A huge thank you Maree for organising such a wonderful ‘Forgotten Highway’ experience for us 4 friends when it seemed that the ‘season’ was over and nothing was available. Your suggested itinerary was perfect & we certainly did enjoy our day! It was an extra treat having you join us as our guide along with Sam our jet boat driver so none of us missed any info during the boat ride. You both really made it a wonderful experience and not just a scenic adventure ???? Thank Fritz & Heather too of Posh Pioneers for looking after us so well - an awesome experience. Such a cool spot, great food & coffee (a miracle as they are ‘off the grid’) and lots of fun ???? Thanks too for your tips for the DIY portion of the rest of our Forgotten Hiway trip. It was a journey we’ll always remember.

8. Kakapo 21 Day New Zealand Small Group Tour

Grand Mercure Auckland, 8 Customs Street East, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand MoaTrek
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5.0 based on 41 reviews

Small Groups - Maximum 18 travellers per tour. NZ Family Owned since 1971 - Many NZ tour companies are Australian owned. Off the Beaten Track Destinations - where big coaches can't go. Flexibility - Time to add as many (or few) activities around the country as you like. Walking - For those who would like to, there are lots of short walks all over the country, your guides will help you find them. Kiwi Guides - Our guides are all passionate Kiwis who know the country like the back of their hands.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Private transportation, 20 Included Activities as per itinerary

Exclusions: Flights from your home country to New Zealand, Single Accommodation Supplement for Sole Room Use.

Reviewed By Wander636823

Kudos to Moa Tours for organising such a great trip. Te Wai Poumanu is beautiful in April with all the autumn colours. This was my first trip with Moa and I have already booked a second one. Special mention must be made of our guide Andrew. His knowledge, passion and enthusiasm shone throughout and he has a great sense of humour, much appreciated when dealing with so many diverse customers. He always went the extra mile to make everyone’s journey enjoyable. I would highly recommend both Moa and Andrew for kiwis wanting to experience the beauty of their own country.

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. Ultimate North - Hiking New Zealand - 8 days

Auckland 1010, New Zealand Hiking New Zealand
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4.7 based on 3 reviews

The Ultimate North is the ideal choice for those who have a little less time but want to experience the very best that the North Island, New Zealand, can offer. Hike into a river-side hut in the middle of Jurassic-like rainforest. Explore thermal areas in Rotorua. Trek the high sections of the remote Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk deep in the magical rain forests of Te Urewera. Relax in lodges in beautiful locations. Discover the surreal volcanic wonderland of Tongariro National Park, staying high above the world in an alpine hut. The Ultimate North has short hikes, as well as two overnight hikes staying in backcountry huts.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch

Exclusions: Personal Hiking Equipment

Reviewed By Discover820406

I completed a four-day hike in Arthurs Pass with Hiking NZ. Not having a lot of hiking experience I was apprehensive about what to expect. However, the trip exceeded expectations, the scenery was stunning, the days although long were rewarding and our guide let us take our time. Couldn't recommend more

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