There aren't many places on this planet where travellers are so well catered for – in terms of both man-made enticements and splendours of the natural realm. New Zealand is bigger than the UK, with one-fourteenth the population size. Filling in the gaps are sublime forests, majestic mountains, and the stunning lakes, beaches and fjords that have made this country one of the best hiking (locals call it 'tramping') destinations on Earth. It’s renowned worldwide for having a relaxed, friendly, spacious and outdoor adventure lifestyle (think sport, walks, BBQs, and beaches). When you combine this adventurous outlook with a stunning backdrop you start to see why travellers rate New Zealand as the action/adventure/adrenalin capital of the world!
Known as the 'City of Sails', Auckland city extends over a narrow isthmus between the Waitemata Harbour on the Pacific Ocean, and the Manukau Harbour on the Tasman Sea. Auckland has spectacular natural features, including 49 dormant volcanoes. This cosmopolitan city has a population of around 1.4 million and the city’s subtropical climate, lush vegetation and easy access to the coast and outdoor activities consistently earns it a place in the top five rankings in international lifestyle surveys.
A melting pot of 190 different ethnicities, Auckland is the world’s biggest Polynesian city. This diversity is reflected in the lively arts and culture scene, a wide range of food and craft markets, vineyards, a hip cafe culture and outstanding restaurants. The dozens of islands of the Hauraki Gulf form a distinctive aspect of the Auckland landscape and provide a magnet for boaties, fishing enthusiasts and hikers.
Prior to European settlement, Taupo was a closely settled area called Tapuaeharuru. In the upland heart of the North Island, Taupo is a place that owes its popularity as a holiday resort and residential area to the big lake stretching 40 kilometres south from the borough of Taupo to the town of Turangi. Some 40 rivers and streams, from bush country, forest and farmland, come tumbling into the lake. Resting at the northern end of Lake Taupo and surrounded by magnificent bush clad mountains, the tidy town of Taupo is distinguished by its picturesque lakefront setting and its excellent opportunities for outdoor activities including sailing, cruising, kayaking, waterskiing, and snow skiing on the slopes of the towering Mount Ruapehu. Lake Taupo offers some of the best trout fishing in New Zealand!
The town is surrounded by some exceptional natural attractions such as the dramatic crystal-blue cascades of the Huka Falls, which can be reached via a number of popular hiking and biking trails. Other highlights include wonderful geothermal pools and the Waipahihi Botanical Reserve. Those seeking more of a cultural experience can head to the lovely Lake Taupo Museum and Art Gallery which features exhibits on the Maori, Volcanic and early European history of the area.
Set on a huge curved bay on North Island’s east coast, beautiful Hawke’s Bay offers much more than an excellent Syrah or Savignon Blanc (although this is its main drawcard). The warm, dry climate is also conducive to a number of outdoor activities including cycling, walking the forest trails of the Ruahine and Kaweka Forest Parks, getting up close and personal with the largest gannet colony in the world at the scenic sandstone headland of Cape Kidnappers, or heading up to Te Mata Peak for panoramic views of the entire area. For a wind-down, pop into the Chocolate History Museum or stroll the streets of Napier – the town boasts phenomenal Art Deco architecture.
Located on New Zealand’s South Island, the Abel Tasman National Park is the smallest park in the country. This coastal paradise is known for its beautiful white-sand beaches lapped by crystal-clear turquoise waters. The incredibly scenic, unspoilt landscapes make the park a popular destination with locals and tourists alike. It is home to an array of wildlife such as: a variety of birdlife, bottlenose dolphins, seals and the Little Blue Penguin, the smallest of the species. Visitors can hop on a scenic boat tour, enjoy fantastic hikes, or camp under the star-studded night sky. Other popular activities include: swimming, snorkelling, as well as kayaking, which is said to be the best way to discover the park’s spectacular natural treasures. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike along one of New Zealand’s ‘Great Walks’, the Abel Tasman Coastal Track, traversing rugged headlands, lush forests and pristine beaches.
Situated on the eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, the vibrant city of Christchurch is the largest city on the island. Dubbed the 'Garden City', it is known for its many lush green spaces and possesses a multicultural charm with an added dash of Victorian flair. The city offers a fabulous array of activities, including punting down the Avon River, helicopter tours, hot air ballooning and whale and dolphin watching.
Visitors can enjoy a stroll around the beautifully sculptured parks, visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and browse numerous art galleries, followed by a visit to Pomeroy’s for a craft beer and the adjoining Victoria’s Kitchen for a pub-style lunch.
Idyllically located on Lake Wakatipu, the tiny mountain village of Glenorchy is a place of blissful tranquility among swoon-worthy natural landscapes. Glenorchy is the perfect laid-back counterpoint to nearby busy and bustling Queenstown. Despite a fair amount of visitors, Glenorchy has managed to preserve its quaint, small village atmosphere while providing a petrol station, a grocery store, a post office and a few quirky pubs and cafes to travellers seeking some of New Zealand’s finest tramping, horse trekking, kayaking and jet boating in the astonishingly picturesque surrounding area. If you are seeking a quiet retreat off the beaten track, this rustic little town might be just the destination for you.
