Auckland, the biggest city in Polynesia, is situated in the north of North Island between two harbours. The city has been named the most multicultural one on earth and boasts a lively modern centre as well as spectacular natural attractions. At the Sky Tower, the tallest free-standing tower in the Southern Hemisphere, dine in a revolving restaurant or get involved in pulse-quickening base jumping or Sky Walking. Further adrenaline can be found at the famous Rainbows End theme park, as well as along the harbour (with watersports), at diving spots the (Great Barrier Reef and Goat Island Marine Reserve) and among the string of 45 volcanoes found here. Explore superb art galleries, live music venues, restaurants, and shops or picnic at the gorgeous Auckland Botanic Gardens. Animal lovers will enjoy visiting Kelly Tarlton's Underwater World.
The city of Rotorua has been a spa town since the 1800s, thanks to the many geysers, hot springs and mud pools that can be found in what is one of the world’s most active geothermal fields. The Maori, who considered the region sacred, make up 35% of the population and a popular attraction is discovering their rich culture and traditions. Rotorua is surrounded by lakes, mountains, forests and other natural features that afford visitors the opportunity to try out a number of outdoor activities between relaxing sessions in the hot springs and pools.
Tongariro is the oldest national park in New Zealand, set at the heart of North Island, just south of Lake Taupō. It encompasses three active volcanoes – Mount Ngauruhoe, Mount Tongariro, and Mount Ruapehu (one of the most active volcanoes in the world) – that have great religious significance to the local Maori people. This fascinating, ancient cultural importance has awarded the area UNESCO status. The raw beauty of the environment also draws a high number of visitors and is the reason much of the famous Lord of the Rings movie trilogy was filmed here. There are numerous activities to look forward to, from scenic cruises to whitewater rafting, hiking, rock climbing, and skiing in winter. Families will enjoy the shorter treks on offer, such as the three-hour walk to spectacular Taranaki Falls.
The capital of New Zealand, Wellington, lies at the south-western tip of the North Island, between mountain and sea - a position that has leant it frequent gusts and the nickname ‘windy city’. Through the years, the city has built a reputation as one of the best in the world to live in, with its alluring combination of several drawcards. Wellington boasts a wonderful beach, Oriental Bay, boasting golden sands and warm waters; an exciting cultural scene that celebrates the area’s unique heritage; and an array of gorgeous botanical gardens. Added to this is a varied and ever-growing culinary scene featuring numerous excellent cafes, breweries, wine cellars, and restaurants. Must-see Wellington attractions include the Wellington Cable Car and the Kelburn Lookout; the spectacular Botanical Gardens; and the fascinating Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa.
The oldest city on New Zealand’s South Island, Nelson, lies on the eastern shore of Tasman Bay. With more than 2500 hours of sunshine a year, it is also considered the country’s sunniest city and is a perfect setting in which to enjoy an array of adventure and leisure activities – biking, horse trekking, rock climbing, wine-tasting at local estates, or simply enjoying the golden beaches and superb views of the Tasman Bay. The city is also famous for its abundant arts scene, and is a popular hub for creatives; and a thriving culinary scene completes the package. Must-see highlights include Founders Heritage Park, a wondrous museum housing historical displays; and the World of Wearable Art and Classic Cars Museum, featuring an iconic collection of classic cars.
As its name suggests, this historical town lies at the mouth of the Grey River. The most famous attraction here is Shantytown, a re-created 19th-century gold-mining town surrounded by an impressive native forest. Greymouth’s wide avenues are strewn with galleries specialising in pounamu, also known as New Zealand jade. Spend a day admiring these exquisite greenstone carvings, take a tour of one of the town’s impressive local breweries, or indulge in some excellent trout fishing on peaceful Lake Brunner. Greymouth caters to a broad range of interests - those in search of adrenaline-pumping adventure will be well sated, but so too will those looking for a quiet, relaxing day out in a magnificent natural landscape.
Fox Glacier is a village in ‘Glacier Country’ on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. Tucked discreetly into the rainforest-clad foothills of the Southern Alps, it has a stunning outlook across the surrounding farms and offers breath-taking views of New Zealand’s two highest peaks, Aoraki (or Mt Cook) and Mt Tasman. The tiny township mostly serves as a base for visitors to its massive icy namesake. Compared to its larger, busier neighbour Franz Josef, Fox Glacier exudes a quieter, more intimate atmosphere. But there is plenty on offer to thrill even the most enthusiastic adrenalin addict. Journey deep into towering rain forests, explore the blue ice caves of the glaciers, jet-boat up a glacial river, or go skydiving.
Queenstown, an idyllic resort town, lies on the shore of Lake Wakatipu in the southwest of South Island, New Zealand, surrounded by beautiful alpine peaks. Considered by many as one of the world’s top adventure capitals, this nature-laden destination offers a wide choice of adrenaline-boosting activities including white water rafting, zip-lining, skiing, skydiving and bungee-jumping (and a particular highlight, the world’s largest rope swing at Nevis Valley). Those who prefer soaking up the gorgeous scenery without too much effort will enjoy the lush vineyards, pristine golf courses, the dazzling Queenstown Gardens and the town’s luxury spas and wellness centres. Culinary types will also be pleased with Queenstown’s exciting gourmand offerings - the lively bar and restaurant scene provide a variety of flavours and experiences.
