Highlights
Wellington
New Zealand’s capital city nestles between rolling hills and a beautiful harbour. It’s a small and trendy capital, most famous for its culture, arts and heritage. There are numerous galleries, theatres and museums here, including the national museum Te Papa Tongarewa, offering fantastic interactive exhibits. Explore on foot and follow the ‘City to Sea Walk’ or the stunning Makara Peak Track. Other recreational pursuits include cycling, mountain biking and sea kayaking, or you can simply relax on the city beach, named Oriental Bay. For the best panoramic views over the city, hop on the scenic cable car and ride up to the charming, leafy Kelburn suburb.
Auckland
Auckland, New Zealand’s biggest city, offers fabulous shopping for every taste, a huge assortment of places to eat and drink, vibrant nightspots and a friendly Polynesian culture. What’s more, this fabulous city is bordered by stunning beaches, islands, volcanoes and rainforest. Ascend the Sky Tower for incredible views and revolving, sky-top dining, or head to Queen Street for a touch of retail therapy. Chill out on a scenic trip to Mission Bay on Auckland’s sunny shoreline, dotted with elegant yachts and lively bars and eateries.
Bay of Islands
This sub-tropical paradise is renowned for its bewitching beauty and historical background, while the beaches and watersports opportunities are also world-class. Head underwater in search of the terrific dive sites, or stick above the waterline to look for dolphins, whales, penguins and gannets. Take a trip by sea or air to Cape Brett, promising fantastic rock formations like the ‘Hole in the Rock’ on Piercy Island. Back on land, there are coastal, riverside and rainforest walking trails, as well as interesting little towns, including Russell, Kerikeri and Opua.
Lake Taupo
Located in the middle of North Island, Lake Taupo is enormous and truly stunning, created from a volcanic eruption some 2,000 years ago. Evidence can be found at the Crater of the Moon, an incredible volcanic valley filled with hissing steam and bubbling cauldrons of mud. Similarly, there are often warm geothermal currents in Lake Taupo’s waters, making it perfect for swimming, kayaking, sailing, water skiing and parasailing. Many travellers visit for the beaches and this array of water activities, as well as world-class trout fishing. Other star attractions in the region include Huka Falls, Aratiatia Rapids and the Tongario National Park World Heritage Site.
Outdoor Adventure
Rotorua’s outdoor pursuits comprise challenging mountain biking, hiking, trout fishing and horse riding, while more thrilling activities include ziplining, zorbing and bungy jumping. In Palliser Bay, discover the great outdoors with a host of activities and adventures - such as horse-riding, walking trails or fishing. Take a helicopter flight to Cape Palliser and spot the local colony of brown fur seals, or visit striking geographical sites, including the Pinnacles.
Thermal Activity
This fascinating region is well-known as a geothermal wonderland, a place to soak in a natural hot spring or gape at gushing geysers. Location-wise, it sits within the Pacific Rim of Fire, a mass of raging volcanic activity. To truly experience your unique surroundings, head out on a 4WD tour to the edge of Mount Tarawera’s crater. Making the most of its natural assets, Rotorua City even houses a thermally-heated, open-air dining quarter called Eat Street.
Wine Trails
Hawke’s Bay is the first stop on the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail, perfect for those with an interest in wine-tasting. Aptly named the ‘Wine Country’, it is a region carpeted with award-winning wineries and restaurants, thanks to its sunny climate and perfect terroir. Reds outnumber whites, with premium Cabernet Sauvignons, Merlots and Syrahs all making a name in the wine-drinking world.