Idyllically located 30 kilometres north of Kerikeri and the Bay of Islands, Matauri Bay is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful places in Aotearoa, New Zealand. With its golden sandy beaches and aquamarine waters, it has long been a popular playground for local and foreign tourists alike. The bay provides an ideal setting for swimming, fishing, snorkelling, surfing, diving, and jet skiing. Take a stroll up to the ridge above the bay to enjoy some swoon-worthy views over the headland and out to the gorgeous Cavalli Islands. Visitors can go diving at the famous Greenpeace ship The Rainbow Warrior which has become a living reef, attracting an abundance of marine life. Another popular attraction is Mataatua II, a Maori war canoe built to commemorate the great Pacific migration that brought the Maori people to New Zealand around 700 years ago.
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, fishing, and snow skiing on the slopes of the towering Mount Ruapehu. 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.
Situated on North Island, New Zealand, the breathtaking Palliser Bay lies just southeast of Wellington towards the island’s southernmost point. The landscape here is characterised by dramatic cliffs, swathes of bright green vegetation, and rocky coastline giving way to sparkling, bright blue waters. This setting makes the bay perfect for hiking, surfing in the tranquil coves, and watching the fur seals at play. The area is also known for its excellent wineries (such as Martinborough), and there are many guided tours on offer which include wine tasting and dining. Visitors should also make sure to try the famous fish and chips at the historic Lake Ferry Hotel. The picturesque lighthouse makes for a fantastic photographic opportunity, while the little fishing village of Ngawi nearby provides a peek into local culture.
Famous for its pristine golden sand beaches and crystal clear aquamarine waters, the tiny picturesque town of Kaiteriteri is used by many as a base for exploring the renowned Abel Tasman National Park. However, the little seaside town itself has plenty to offer visitors seeking a relaxing beach vacation on this little piece of paradise. Kayaking is a popular activity as it is a great way to witness the abundant local marine wildlife. Dolphins, penguins and whales are regularly sighted and those who prefer a more up close and personal approach can even take a dip with a local colony of seals who are known to playfully interact with swimmers. Add to this some of New Zealand's freshest seafood served up at quaint local kiosks and it is easy to see why Kaiteriteri continues to be voted as one of New Zealand's favourite seaside resorts.
Arthur's Pass National Park lies in the centre of the South Island of New Zealand. With its towering mountains, steep gorges, wide braided rivers and breath-taking waterfalls, it is an adventure seeker’s dream. The wide riverbeds and vast beech forests of the eastern side of the park stand in striking contrast to the deeply gorged rivers flowing through the dense rain forest of the west. Down the middle of 'the great divide' between these distinct areas is an alpine wonderland of snow-covered peaks, glaciers and scree slopes providing a mecca for skiers, snowboarders and mountaineers. Take a scenic train ride through the park and pop into the lovely little village of Arthur’s Pass. This tiny hamlet, often shrouded in a thick cloud of mist, is located within the park and offers facilities such as motels, cabins and a few quaint restaurants.
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.
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.
