NORTH ISLAND
~ Maori culture ~ Geothermal wonders ~ Beaches , bays & island sanctuaries ~ ~ Lively cities ~ Wine tasting ~ Scenic touring routes ~ Activities aplenty ~
New Zealand ’ s largest city , Auckland nestles between two harbours , the Manukau Harbour on the Tasman Sea and the Waitemata Harbour on the Pacific Ocean . Aside from the urban side of life , which Auckland does very well , it ’ s just half an hour from beautiful beaches , hiking trails and a dozen enchanting holiday islands .
Quirky Wellington , New Zealand ’ s capital , is a compact city with a powerful mix of heritage , culture , history , nature and cuisine . Boasting an outstanding harbour and being surrounded by a rugged coastline and rolling hills gives a vivacious inner city experience with scenery , nature and vineyards on the doorstep .
For those that love beaches and water activities , the subtropical Bay of Islands is paradise . Encompassing 144 islands , the regional gateway is Paihia , with other top spots being historic Russell , Cape Brett and the Hole in the Rock on Piercy Island .
Central North Island is a wonderland of geothermal and volcanic activity . Visit Rotorua for bubbling mud pools , shooting geysers , the chance to dip your toes into natural hot springs and to take in an authentic Maori experience . Beautiful Lake Taupo is well-placed for exploring magnificent Huka Falls or Tongariro National Park with its three active volcanic peaks . Here also is New Zealand ’ s most popular day hike , the challenging Tongariro Alpine Crossing , which serves up spectacular views , strange volcanic forms , emerald lakes and alpine gardens .
In the far north is Ninety Mile Beach , a fabled strip of sand with activities such as surfcasting and swimming to bodyboarding down the sand dunes . At Cape Reinga see two oceans collide and discover the place of leaping , where Maori spirits begin their final journey .
In the lush Waikato region Tolkien fans can visit the Hobbiton Movie Set at Matamata ; surfers can catch a wave in Raglan ; while those fascinated by what lies underground should visit Waitomo , a labyrinth of caves , sinkholes and subterranean rivers with millions of twinkling glowworms .
The Coromandel , with its pristine beaches , native forests and laidback vibe , is one of New Zealand ’ s most popular and best-loved holiday destinations . The main towns of Thames , Coromandel and Whitianga offer the widest choice of accommodation , but make sure you stop at Hot Water Beach where the thermal activity causes steam to rise from the sand and you can dig your own hot pool on the beach !
Sunny Hawke ’ s Bay is one of New Zealand ’ s warmest , driest regions and one of the country ’ s leading wine producers with over thirty wineries . It ’ s a place to shop at farmers markets , indulge in fresh artisan food , walk forest trails or relax on glorious beaches . If wildlife interests you don ’ t miss Cape Kidnappers with its large gannet colony , while Napier is full of beautifully preserved 1930s art deco architecture .
114 NEW ZEALAND visit your local travel agent or call 08444 937 900