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.
Lying on the southern edge of the great Lake Taupo, the little town of Turangi is a magnet for fans of the outdoors. Besides its location on the water, the town is also a gateway to the beautiful landscapes of the Tongariro National Park, Kaimanawa Forest Park and Kaweka Forest Park. A host of nature-based activities can be enjoyed here, including hiking, biking, canoeing, river rafting, boat cruises and most notably, world-class trout fishing. The self-proclaimed ‘trout-fishing capital of the world’, Turangi draws fly fishermen from far and wide. Just outside of town is the Tokaanu Thermal Pools complex, where visitors can soak their aches and pains away in an array of communal and private pools fed by mineral-rich hot springs renowned for their therapeutic qualities. Don’t miss a visit to Opotaka, a historic fortified village where the Maori’s famous Ka Mate Haka was created.
As previously described
