On Location: Volcanoes, gorge cycling & glowworms: Agents conquer G’s North Island tour in New Zealand

Picture this: cycling through golden gorges, hiking across volcanic craters, kayaking wild rivers, and diving deep into Māori culture.

That was the reality for twelve Canadian travel advisors on an active eight-day adventure across New Zealand’s North Island with G Adventures recently from Nov. 2-9.

The “North Island Multisport” itinerary — designed for active travellers — combines cycling, hiking, kayaking, and cultural immersion, showcasing the country’s most diverse landscapes.

Accompanied by Chief Experience Officer (CEO), Benji, and Hilary Arsenault, global purpose specialist, for Quebec and Atlantic Canada, the group experienced the very essence of adventure travel.

“My role as CEO is to showcase the best of New Zealand to our travellers,” Benji told us. “Most of the people who join this tour are either retired or in their thirties. They are very active and passionate about the outdoors. That’s exactly who this trip is designed for. The nature on this tour is simply amazing. We get to explore some of the North Island’s most stunning landscapes, from volcanic mountains to lush rainforests. It’s so diverse, and the scenery changes quickly — that’s the beauty of New Zealand.”

Even though G Adventures rates this tour as a 3 out of 5 for physical activity (average), Benji made sure to remind travel agents that travellers should still be in good shape (no need to be extremely fit) to fully enjoy most of the activities.

READ MORE: On Location: Touchdown in Auckland! Canadian agents unpack New Zealand with G Adventures

That said, for those who might have overestimated their fitness level, Benji reassured that G Adventures always has a backup plan once on site.

“When there’s a problem, we always have a second or even a third option, if things don’t go as planned,” he said.

Arsenault, visiting New Zealand for the first time, noted the tour's many exciting qualities.

“We wanted something a little bit different,” she said. “Most of our other tours are either Classic, National Geographic, or Geluxe. So the active one shows the range of travel styles that we offer. We have 14 travel styles. We like saying that we have something for everyone, so at least this one allows travel agents to see a different side of what we do.”

From Auckland to Rotorua

The journey began in Auckland with an exclusive introduction to the All Blacks, New Zealand’s world-famous rugby team.

The next day, we cycled through the scenic Karangahake Gorge, a lush region showcasing old railway tunnels and golden hills. 

Travel advisor Chean Chen from Cruise Holidays Select, noted how responsive and attentive G Adventures is to its clients.

“I had sold G Adventures tours before, but I had never actually experienced one myself, said Chen. “Doing it was definitely an eye-opener. The camaraderie, and the way G Adventures was ready to pivot for clients who couldn’t do certain activities — physically or otherwise — was incredible.”

Chen actually had a street cycling accident years ago and has a fear of riding on streets.

But Benji noticed this and was kind enough to drive her to the start of the trail.

“I can cycle on a trail, just not on streets with cars coming at me,” she said. “It was amazing, because I was about to give up.”

The adventure continued south to Rotorua, where the group explored the region’s geothermal landscapes, bubbling mud pools, and Maori culture.

A visit to the New Zealand Arts and Crafts Institute provided insights into local carving traditions.

In Rotorua, several travel advisors decided to try the Rotorua Canopy Tours — an optional activity not included in the original itinerary but highly praised by those who experienced it.

This thrilling eco-adventure allows participants to zipline through ancient native forest while learning about local conservation efforts — a perfect complement to the active spirit of the trip.

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing

For most of the group, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing was the pinnacle of the trip.

Considered one of the world’s best one-day hikes, the trail covers nearly 20 kilometres and takes between seven and eight hours to complete.

This dramatic volcanic landscape, part of Tongariro National Park, is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The trail passes emerald lakes, active craters, and steam vents, offering eye-popping views of Mount Ngauruhoe, better known to The Lord of the Rings fans as Mount Doom.

Tongariro’s last eruption occurred in 2012, serving as a reminder that this terrain is still very much alive. 

For agents advising clients, it’s important to stress that this is a strenuous hike requiring good fitness, sturdy footwear, and layers of clothing for sudden weather changes.

Trekkers should also carry at least two liters of water, sun protection, and always check the latest park safety alerts before setting out.

CEO Benji also reminds travel agents and future travellers that New Zealand’s weather can change very quickly, and this hike can be cancelled depending on conditions.

“I did seven of these last year, and three didn’t go ahead. The weather up there is highly unpredictable — it’s just below 1,800 meters in altitude. We have a backup hiking option which, if not as good, is almost as good.”

While the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a must-do, it’s important to listen to your body.

For travel advisor Ethel Fernandez from Enjoy the World, aged 50, even though her highlight of the trip was the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, the hike was no walk in the park.

It took her about 10 hours to complete. “If someone comes to me now, I know every step and can advise them properly. I know exactly who this trek is for and who it isn’t — like me! (laughs) I do wish I had turned back earlier, but at least I learned. And I know it’s a trek that can be amazing for the right people.”

Rivers, wildlife & glowworms 

The adventure continued at Blue Duck Station on the edge of Whanganui National Park, where travellers learned about local conservation efforts to protect the endangered blue duck.

Activities included a guided bush safari, jet boating, and kayaking along the Whanganui River — blending adrenaline with ecological awareness.

The final days brought the group north to Waitomo, home to the world-famous Glowworm Caves.

A silent boat ride through the illuminated cavern offered a magical finale to the active itinerary, a moment of calm and wonder before returning to Auckland.

A premium farewell

To end the trip on a high note, Air New Zealand, in partnership with G Adventures, surprised us all with an upgrade to Premium Economy on their flight home from Auckland to Vancouver.

The airline’s Premium Economy cabin features wider seats with generous recline, enhanced legroom, a footrest, premium wines, and a gourmet menu inspired by New Zealand cuisine.

Canadian travel agents looking to experience G Adventures’ itineraries firsthand can take advantage of an exclusive 50 per cent discount on most trips.

Additionally, “G Dollars” reward Canadian agents with travel credits that can be used toward their own personal adventures.

These dollars can be combined with an agent discount of up to $3,000 per trip under $9,999, making it easier for advisors to explore the world the G Adventures way.

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