The Rotorua Caldera:
The 22-km-wide Rotorua caldera is the northern-most caldera of the Taupo volcanic zone. Rotorua is the only single-event caldera in the zone and was formed about 220,000 years ago following the 340 cu km Mamaku Ignimbrite eruption. The major city of Rotorua lies at the southern end of the lake that fills much of the caldera. The northern end of the lake adjoins another major caldera containing fantastic walks, beautiful crater lakes and some of the most exciting trout fishing in the world.
The major thermal areas of Takeke, Tikitere, Lake Rotokawa, and Whakarewarewa are located within the caldera close to Rotorua city. The latest major eruption was the violent Tarawera eruption of 1886 when whole mountain split asunder resulting in a 13 kilometers chasm of fire, ash and hot mud. 114 Maori people and European tourists were buried alive with mud and volcanic rocks. The eruption has produced the youngest valley in the world and a plethora of thermal activity.
Maori People of Rotorua Fearsome warriors of later years are now the tour guides of Rotorua. They know their homeland and they are proud to show you around.
A visit to Rotorua is incomplete without a cultural experience. There are a number of Maori experiences being we know the best. Let us know if you are interested, we can organise it for you.
Our self drive tour includes accommodation in Rotorua as well as entry into the best of the theme parks. Rotorua is Keith and Hestis' "home town" so we know it well.
Completion by 10 March
Taupo, Volcanic Crater.
Lake Taupo is the largest lake in Australasia, 40 Kms x 25 Kms of pure snowfed water.Unlike Rotorua, Lake Taupo is a crater lake. It was formed 220,000 years ago, around the same time as Lake Rotorua, from a massive explosive eruption. Since that time it has erupted a number of times. The last major eruption, around 900 AD was recorded in Rome. It remains one of the largest dormant volcanoes in the world and its activity is constantly monitored. 
With all the water around you would expect that water sports and fishing would be a major industry - you would not be wrong. Some of the best trout fishing in the world can be had to the south and east of Taupo. Keith has fished these waters for almost 50 years and know them well.45 minutes from Taupo are the mountain ranges of the central plateau. Mt Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngaruahoe have some of the most famous ski fields in the world. 
In the summer this area is absolutely fantastic for walking, serious hiking, mountain biking, hunting, deer stalking, fishing, photography, climbing and sightseeing. This is the season to do the Tongariro Crossing, one of the top ten day walks in the world. In the winter this area really comes into its own. The area is truely awesome. Hiking now becomes a challenge, the rivers are wild and the fishing almost dangerous and hunting can almost be a survival exercise.
Click the link to our self drive tours for more information
Completed by 10 March
The Winterless North:
There are many attractions north of Auckland city. From rolling countryside, rugged coasts, pioneer history, beautiful seascapes, and the majestic, ancient Kauri forests. 
You should allocate three days to see the Bay of Islands and four days if you want to drive up 90 Mile Beach to see the two oceans converge off isolated Cape Reinga.
We suggest travelling north via the rugged west coast, through the giant Kauri forests and returning down the East coast visiting some of the very beautiful and unspoilt beaches of the Pacific Ocean. Be prepared for a long journey and make your base in Russell or Paihia in the Bay of Islands.
The Bay of islands is one of the must do visits in New Zealand. Take a boat trip around the countless islands and beaches, retrace the footsteps of Zane Grey, American author and world reknown fisherman whist hunting the numerous Marlin and Sword Fish. Visit the birthplace of New Zealand and experience the life of the pioneers.We really want you to enjoy all that our beautiful country has to offer. We would like you take away memories, products of our unique history and lifestyle and some new friends.
We would also like you to have some change in your pocket - so we will recommend only things that we believe are good value for money.
Our self drive tours are designed for travellers wanting the best but don't have an unlimited budget. You provide the car, eat where you are comfortable, we organise the rest.
Tour Available 1 April 12