Welcome to the North Island
Northland and Bay of Islands
Take a journey to the tip of the North Island and visit Cape Reinga, where you will witness the Tasman Sea meeting the Pacific Ocean or visit the iconic Bay of Islands, home to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, a historic Māori site. Northland is also famed for its sandboarding dunes at Ninety Mile Beach that stretches along the west coast towards Cape Reinga.
Top attractions:
Sailing – the best way to discover the Bay of Islands and the myriad of stunning beaches, coves and secret fishing spots.
Twin Coast cycle trail – a fun, scenic cycling journey that can be enjoyed as a day trip or multi-day adventure. Starting on the east coast and heading to the west coast, this area is rich in Maori and Colonial history.
Waitangi Treaty Grounds and Museum – the birthplace of modern New Zealand; a ‘must do’ when visiting Northland. Guided experiences are highly recommended.
Waikato
The Waikato is a region located approximately, 1 hour and 20 minutes south of Auckland and is one of the richest agricultural and pastoral areas in the world. Hamilton is one of the best cities to visit in Waikato, which features paths of beautifully themed gardens or you can visit the town of Matamata which hosts Hobbiton's The Shire from The Lord of the Rings.
Top attractions:
Hamilton Gardens - the gardens explore the history, context and meaning of gardens. Each tells a story and offers an insight into a different civilisation (Italian Renaissance, Indian Char Bagh, Chinese Scholars, Ancient Egyptian to name a few).
Zealong Tea Estate - producing 100% organic award-winning tea, and a destination for tea, art and hospitality.
Hobbiton – tour the movie set with its 44 permanently reconstructed Hobbit Holes and finish at the Green Dragon Inn for a refreshing beverage.
Rotorua
Rotorua is located approximately 3 hours south of Auckland and is renowned for its bubbling mud pools, geysers and natural hot springs. Rotorua is also a place of importance showcasing our deep understanding of Māori culture and history where you can experience the culture, entertainment and delicious hāngī.
Top attractions:
Waimangu Thermal Valley – a thermal wonderland featuring steaming hot pools, bubbling streams and fantastical pristine landscapes. Enjoy a relaxing cruise across the natural lake which includes lunch and plenty of time to experience this beautiful natural environment.
Te Puia – visit the NZ Maori Arts & Crafts Institute and learn about traditional weaving and carving. High quality artisan handmade products are available for sale that make wonderful souvenirs and gifts for loved one.
Scenic seaplane or helicopter flights – indulge in a scenic flight across the region and enjoy spectacular views of active thermal areas, snow-capped mountains and crater lakes.
Mountain biking – Rotorua is widely known as the mountain biking capital of the world. Hire an e-bike and explore further afield. Lots to discover including thermal areas, local Maori communities and the Redwood forest.
Taupo
Taupō is a thriving town with good restaurants and bars located in the centre of the North Island, approximately 3 hours 30 minutes from Auckland. Taupō is distinguished by its lakefront setting and outdoor sports ranging from fishing to jetboating. The vast waters of Lake Taupō, a volcanic caldera, drain into the Huka Falls dramatic, crystal-blue cascades.
Top attractions in the region:
Trout fishing – the lake and the Tongariro River which flows into it are world-renowned fishing destinations
Cycling –from grade 1-2 family and e-bike tracks to epic overnight adventures, grade 5 downhills, mountain bike trails.
Golfing at Wairakei – the course lies on 180 hectares of natural rolling countryside and was developed to meet the rigorous design standards required for world class championship competition
Tongariro Alpine Crossing – rated as the best one-day hike in New Zealand, the trail crosses a volcanic alpine landscape of dramatic contrasts
Hawke's Bay
Known as Food and Wine Country, the Hawke’s Bay region encompasses Napier, Hastings and Havelock North.
Top attractions:
Cape Kidnappers Walkway – an adventurous day walk along the beach to visit the Gannet Colony. This area features towering cliffs and fast tides that must be closely observed for safety. A rewarding day out for confident walkers and those who love the outdoors.
Cycle the wineries – a fun day out to enjoy with friends and family. Hire a bicycle and ride the flat trails that link the different wine regions of the Hawkes Bay. Enjoy lunch at one of many fabulous winery restaurants.
Art Deco tour – after a devastating earthquake in 1931, Napier rebuilt itself in the Art Deco style of the day. Most buildings have been fully renovated making this city a charming place to wander and discover beautiful architecture on every corner.
Wellington
Set around an attractive waterfront, Wellington is a creative, cosmopolitan city, combing the sophistication of a capital with the warmth and personality of a village.
Top attractions:
Private tour of Parliament district – learn about New Zealand’s political system and the foundation documents of our nation. Visit the National Archives to view the original Declaration of Independence, the Treaty of Waitangi and the Suffragette scroll. This scroll features the names and signatures of all the women who signed the petition that gave all NZ women the vote in 1893, the first country in the world.
Zealandia – an urban conservation project that’s seen the native birdlife in Wellington city explode in recent years. Evening tours provide a different view on NZ’s wildlife after dark. Catch the Cable Car to the free shuttle that runs regularly to Zealandia.
Weta Workshop - Take a look behind the scenes at a bit of movie-making magic with Weta Studio Tours and get your hands-on props from some of the world's most exciting films.
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