Wellington is not only the nation’s political centre but in many ways the cultural centre. It contains numerous museums, galleries and theatres, including the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. With a village feel, Wellington has an atmosphere that earns it high praise from visitors. In 2018, the Lonely Planet guidebook named the city New Zealand's best destination and branded it "one of the coolest little capitals in the world".

Neighbourhoods

Downtown The heart of Wellington is a humming place packed with restaurants, bars, cafés and shops. Along Lambton Quay is a busy thoroughfare offering a fantastic lineup of boutiques and chain stores, as well as Wellington’s David Jones, housed in the former Kirkcaldie & Stains department store. Back towards the centre of town, Cuba Street is a colourful pedestrian mall where alternative lifestyle stores rub shoulders with bohemian cafés. Further along is Courtenay Place, a dining and entertainment precinct that pumps with after-dark action.

Waterfront The beautifully developed waterfront is the perfect place to escape the city streets. At one end is Oriental Bay, with a sandy beach and cafés. From here, the walkway passes the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa and Circa Theatre. The Taranaki Street Wharf precinct is home to Te Wharewaka, a stunning landmark on the site of one of Wellington’s largest 19th Century Maori communities. At Queens Wharf, bars and restaurants are the perfect stop-off before an event at the TSB Bank Arena. Ferries leave from here to Matiu/Somes Island, Days Bay and Petone.

Thorndon New Zealand’s oldest suburb and the location of the nation’s Parliament. Parliament House, the Parliamentary Library and the Beehive (housing the Executive Wing) are set in landscaped grounds that are open to the public. Up the hill behind Parliament is Tinakori Road. Home to many of New Zealand’s well-known artists over the years, it is now a collection of cafés and boutiques.

Lower Hutt A short drive from Wellington is Lower Hutt. The historic suburb of Petone is gradually becoming gentrified and its main street – Jackson Street – is a good place to find a coffee or browse the shops. Lower Hutt City offers walking tracks and mountain bike trails.

Upper Hutt The last stop before the Rimutaka Hill Road through to Wairarapa. There is a busy main street, and the city is a base for exploring the Hutt River and its riverside trails.

Porirua North of Wellington, towards the coast, Porirua enjoys a rugged coastal setting and is popular for sailing and diving. The town itself has numerous shops and a museum.

Kapiti Coast Also known as the ‘Nature Coast’, Kapiti Coast, stretching from Paekakariki north to Levin, is a very popular destination, offering beautiful coastal scenery within easy reach of one of the cities. The area is named for Kapiti Island, sitting just offshore, which is a sanctuary for native birds. Back on the mainland, the Kapiti Coast offers hiking trails, beaches and a variety of visitor attractions.

Do & Discover

Wellington offers plenty of rich cultural experiences, and can also be explored as ‘Wellywood’, the centre of New Zealand’s Hollywood connections. Uncover New Zealand history and culture at Archives New Zealand, the Museum of Wellington City & Sea, the National War Memorial, Colonial Cottage Museum, Old St Paul’s and Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. If you're a fan of the arts head to City Gallery Wellington, The Dowse Art Museum and Pataka Art and Museum for a fix. For live theatre look up Bats Theatre, Circa Theatre and St James Theatre, or catch a film at the Embassy Theatre. Browse legendary booksellers Arty Bees Books or take a stroll with Walk Wellington, see the sights with Rover Rings Tours or head out to Porirua City. Other options include stargazing at Space Place in Carter Observatory – there’s a digital planetarium and you can look through the observatory’s historic telescope. Explore and admire Wellington Botanic Garden en route, or ride to the top of the historic Wellington Cable Car, get dirty with Mud Cycles, visit the international movie wizards at Weta or say hello to wildlife both foreign and domestic at Wellington Zoo and Zealandia: The Karori Sanctuary Experience.

Food & Drink

You can’t claim the title of the nation’s cultural capital without a buzzing dining and nightlife scene to back it up. Fortunately Wellington fronts up with quirky urban cafés, critically acclaimed restaurants and a top selection of after-dark venues that range in vibe from underground chic to cosy pub. Great coffee is a highlight in Wellington. Try Caffe Astoria, Café L’affare, Fidel’s, Midnight Espresso and Mojo Coffee. Time for dinner? Popular stops for budget-friendly eats include Phoenician Falafel and Wellington Seamarket. In the mid-range there's Fishermans Table at Paekakariki, and international fare in the CBD with Capitol, Scopa and Pravda. For ethnic flavours try Chow Tory, Little India or tapas bar Basque, while Sweet Mother’s Kitchen is recommended for Cajun cuisine in a laid-back atmosphere. For high-end dining, try the critically acclaimed Logan Brown (owned by celebrity chefs Steve Logan and Alister Brown). Drinks after dinner? Wellington is renowned for cool clubs. Top picks include Havana, San Fran and The Library. If you’re after a cosy pub, try Backbencher or the outstanding beer garden at Southern Cross.

Shopping

There’s plenty of great shopping available in the Wellington CBD, with a number of trendy arcades and reputable department stores. Try Capital Gateway, David Jones, the Old Bank Shopping Arcade or the Jackson Street precinct in Petone.

Accommodation

Wellington offers all the accommodation options you would expect from a capital city, ranging from international-class hotel accommodation worthy of visiting dignitaries down to large backpacker establishments on the city’s waterfront. Hotel options include Mercure Wellington Abel Tasman Hotel, Angus Inn Hotel in Lower Hutt, Bolton Hotel, Brentwood Hotel, Mercure Wellington Central City Apartment Hotel, CQ Wellington, InterContinental Wellington,  Hotel Grand Chancellor, The Cambridge Hotel and Travelodge Wellington. For guest and hosted accommodation, try Booklovers B&B. For self-contained and serviced accommodation the Airport Motor Lodge is a good choice, while those on a budget should seek out Wellington Top 10 Holiday Park or backpacker options Base Wellington and Hotel Waterloo.

Local knowledge

Wellington International Airport offers domestic flights to numerous North and South Island destinations, and international flights to Australia and the Pacific. Located along SH1, Wellington is 9 hours, 15 minutes from Auckland. It also lies on the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail from Hawke’s Bay to Marlborough. Vehicle and passenger ferry services sail several times daily to Picton in the South Island. KiwiRail’s Northern Explorer offers a daily train service between Wellington and Auckland. The Airport Flyer offers an easy option between town, the airport, and Upper and Lower Hutt, while Metlink provides rail commuter services. The Bluebridge Cook Strait Ferry and Interislander run regular ferries to the South Island, while Sounds Air offers flight-seeing in the area. Find out more at the Wellington i–SITE on Manners Street.

The Waitaki region has an eclectic range of attractions. Oamaru’s Blue Penguin colony is sure to delight wildlife lovers, the region’s geology and ancient history are fascinating, and the historic Victorian architecture of Oamaru is a delight to explore – and has had the unexpected offshoot of the small country town becoming the Steampunk capital of New Zealand.

Do & Discover

A major highlight of the region is the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony, New Zealand’s largest scientifically monitored Blue Penguin colony. The world’s smallest penguins spend their days feeding at sea and every evening they arrive back on land and waddle up to their burrows. With purpose-built facilities, including a 350-seat grandstand, the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony is a great place to see wild penguins. Once you've met these charming little birds, head to the region's main town of Oamaru and browse at the Forrester Gallery, or explore the town's lovely Victorian whitestone architecture and history at the North Otago Museum. Get a glimpse of history's alternative universe at the Steampunk HQ Workshop. Step back in time yourself with historic recreation portraiture at The Photo Shoppe, browse The Woolstore Complex gallery and market, sample delicacies at the Whitestone Cheese Store, and catch a movie at the Limelight Cinema. Elsewhere in the region, brave Omarama's world famous gliding conditions with GlideOmarama.com, or relax on the ground in the thermal pools of  Hot Tubs Omarama. In Duntroon, the Vanished World Heritage Trail & Centre is well worth a visit.

Food & Drink

The Waitaki region has plenty of excellent eateries, some of which have received much acclaim. Locally produced cheese has developed a good reputation amongst foodies and is definitely worth seeking out when you’re in the area. Good coffee can be found at Roost, Steam, and the Whitestone Cheese Store. Relax with a drink at the Criterion Hotel, Fat Sally’s Pub & Restaurant or The Globe in Oamaru, or head to The Penguin Club for live music. Pick up an inexpensive meal at Harbour Street Bakery. Fleur’s Place is a much-loved local eatery right on the jetty in Moeraki. Others to try are Northstar Motel, Restaurant & Bar, Portside Restaurant and the award-winning Riverstone Kitchen – it’s worth seeking out this country restaurant for its menu of fresh, local produce.

Accommodation

Accommodation options in the Waitaki include everything from relaxing holiday parks to the chance to stay in historic Victoria-era buildings in Oamaru. Backpackers can head to Omarama's Buscot Station, while the Oamaru Top 10 Holiday Park and Moeraki Village Holiday Park are also good cheaper options. For motel accommodation try Northstar Motel, Restaurant & Bar or Eden Gardens, or for the most luxurious options head to the Criterion Hotel or Brydone Hotel Oamaru.

Local Knowledge

The Waitaki region's nearest airport is in Dunedin, where domestic flights are available to all main New Zealand centres and international flights depart to Brisbane, Australia. If you’re driving, Oamaru is 3 hours, 20 minutes from Christchurch and 1 hour, 40 minutes from Dunedin. When you're there, visit the Oamaru i-SITE at 1 Thames Street to find out more.

At the heart of the Waikato is Hamilton, a riverside city that’s close enough to Auckland for some commuters. The Waikato River bisects the heart of the city and is lined with lush gardens. The city has shopping, accommodation and dining options and the nightlife is pretty lively. Beyond the urban centre are villages serving the farmers and horse breeders of this fertile region.

Around the Regions

The King Country The King Country gained its name as a stronghold of Māori independence in the 19th Century. After the Waikato War between Māori and settlers in the 1860s, Māori King Tawhiao led his people into exile in the region now known as the King Country. Waitomo Caves In the southwest corner of Waikato is a very special region where the hills are a little more rugged and the forest a little more wild, and beneath it lies a phenomenal network of glow-worm caverns and underground rivers. This tiny centre is gateway to a vast cave network and the base for adventure activities. Otorohanga The ‘Kiwiana Town’ of Otorohanga is famous for its murals. Te Kuiti Known as the ‘Shearing Capital of New Zealand’, Te Kuiti is the service centre for surrounding farms.

Do & Discover

There’s some spectacular underground adventures waiting to be experienced in the Waitomo region’s extensive cave system, but much to enjoy above ground in Waikato as well. Take a trip to Hobbiton or get up close with New Zealand native wildlife. Fans of The Lord of the Rings will see a resemblance between the Waikato hills and Hobbiton - it’s no coincidence! Visit Hobbiton Movie Set & Farm Tours in Matamata for the full experience. You can also look for historic sites and little museums in small towns like Te Aroha and Te Awamutu, while the Waikato Museum is the region's largest. Hamilton offers a further range of attractions you'd expect from a large regional centre including SKYCITY Hamilton casino, the well-regarded Hamilton Gardens and Hamilton Zoo. Get up close and personal with more animals at Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari. Rest and relax at the thermal pools at Te Aroha Mineral Spas or opt for active relaxing at Raglan's Solsurfer Surf School. Over the years, the down-to-earth character of the King Country has evolved into a celebration of Kiwi culture, and it’s a great place to get a taste of the ‘real New Zealand’. At the top of the list is Billy Black’s Kiwi Culture Show, an irreverent take on Kiwi culture – catch it at  Woodlyn Park. Waitomo, Maori for ‘the stream that flows into the hole in the ground’, is home to a cave network for myriad adventure activities from glow-worm spotting to the more extreme adventures of black-water rafting and abseiling. Go under with The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co., Waitomo Adventures and explore the Waitomo Glow-worm Caves. While in Waitomo you can also check out the Kiwi House Otorohanga and the Waitomo Caves Discovery Centre.

Food & Drink

The Waikato region offers a thriving café scene and a number of laid-back drinking spots. Glam up for a night at the Hamilton Casino, pop into a King Country café for a light lunch, or enjoy great dining in a relaxed ambience in Raglan. Central Hamilton is a good bet for coffee. Try Machina, where an interior of dark leather sets the tone. In Cambridge, try Red Cherry and north of Matamata discover The Kaimai Cheese Company. When dining, there are some excellent restaurants to seek out in Hamilton. Check out the aptly named Palate Restaurant. In Raglan, book a table at Orca Restaurant & Bar and enjoy fantastic views of the harbour. Take the time to stop for lunch in Waitomo where you'll find some excellent cafés tucked away in the region’s villages. Bosco Café, Fat Pigeon Café and HUHU Café are all worth hunting down. Enjoy a fun and fab dinner at Tomo Bar and Eatery, Morepork Piz & Café or The Thirsty Weta Bar & Eatery.

Accommodation

Accommodation in the Waikato and Waitomo region ranges from upmarket hotels in urban Hamilton to secluded cottages in laid-back Raglan. In Hamilton, head to one of the city’s many backpackers or Hamilton City Holiday Park for good cheaper options. For a quality motel try Anglesea Motel, while City Centre B&B and the Novotel Hamilton Tainui offer more exclusive options. In Raglan, the Solscape eco retreat backpackers and Raglan Sunset Motel offer value for money. Over in King Country and Waitomo, good budget accommodation is available at Waitomo Top 10 Holiday Park, Kiwi Paka Waitomo or stay onsite at Woodlyn Park, at the Waitomo Lodge Motel or in the Waitomo Caves Hotel.

Local Knowledge

Hamilton International Airport is 20 minutes’ drive from the city and has direct flights to Auckland, Wellington, Palmerston North and Christchurch. Hamilton is located on SH 1. It is an easy 1 hour, 30 minute drive from Auckland or Rotorua. With easy-to-navigate roads, this region is ideal for driving. It’s also well served by shuttles and coaches. A daily rail service also connects Hamilton with Auckland and Wellington. Find out more transport options at i-Sites around the region: Cambridge i–SITE, corner Victoria and Queen streets, Hamilton i-SITE, corner Caro and Alexandra streets, Matamata i–SITE at 45 Broadway, Te Aroha i–SITE at 102 Whitaker Street, Te Awamutu i–SITE, 1 Gorst Avenue, Tirau and Tokoroa i–SITEs on SH 1, Otorohanga i–SITE, 27 Turongo Street, Taumarunui i–SITE on Hakiaha Street, Te Kuiti i–SITE on Rora Street and Waitomo i–SITE at 21 Waitomo Village Road.

A number of attractions on the West Coast explore its pioneering and mining history, while the nation’s most famous, accessible and spectacular glaciers are also centres of activity. There’s also plenty to discover in the rainforests and gullies of the wild West Coast.

Do & Discover

History, adventure and wildlife encounters abound on the wild West Coast. Rediscover gold-rush glory at Greymouth's heritage attraction Shantytown, visit The Bushmans Centre at Lake Ianthe and the Hokitika Museum, or take in the sights with Around the Globe Gold Mine Tours in Reefton, Greymouth's Kea Heritage Tours, and Glacier Valley Eco Tours in Franz Josef. Take to the skies with Air Safaris and Fox & Franz Josef Heliservices or forge your own knife from a red-hot piece of steel at Barrytown Knifemaking. Those looking for a white-knuckle adventure can choose between the Buller Gorge Swingbridge; rafting, jet boating and horse riding with Buller Adventures (or just jet boating with Haast River Safari); caving and black water rafting with Underworld Adventures and Wild West Adventures, or a quad biking adventure with On Yer Bike! For something a little less hardcore go for a paddle with Punakaiki Canoes and Glacier Country Kayaks or, for the ultimate glacier experience, join the teams at Fox Glacier Guiding and Franz Josef Glacier Guides before soaking away the day's exertions at The Glacier Hot Pools. Answer the call of the wild with a visit to the West Coast Wildlife Centre or join Okarito Kiwi Tours and White Heron Sanctuary Tours.

Food & Drink

The West Coast pub is something of a legendary New Zealand institution. A number continue to operate in much the same manner as old, but they’ve been joined by more modern cafés and restaurants. From its first running in 1990, Hokitika’s Wildfoods Festival has grown in popularity and size to become an iconic annual event where the adventurous can sample all sorts of fare that’s very different from the ordinary! In Greymouth, try out Freddy's Café, or in Karamea, The Last Resort offers dining in the ambient surrounds of an eco-retreat. Experience West Coast hospitality in a cosy pub like Stumpers Bar & Café in Hokitika. In Westport, Denniston Dog Saloon is a cool little West Coast joint. For dinner try Hokitika's Beachfront Hotel's Ocean View Restaurant. Exploring glacier country? Good old West Coast pubs include Cook Saddle Café & Saloon at Fox Glacier with its rustic surrounds, and Hard Antler Bar & Restaurant Haast. For sophisticated dining, try The Canopy Restaurant in Franz Josef.

Accommodation

From modern beachfront hotels to backpackers in remote spots and resort accommodation near scenic and natural highlights, there’s plenty of variation in West Coast accommodation. For B&B try Oak Lodge in Greymouth or, for motel lodgings, Alpine Rose Motel, Asure Highpark Motor Inn and Sundowner Motel can also be found in Greymouth. Hotels include Beachfront Hotel Hokitika and Punakaiki Resort. Boutique options in the area include Stations Inn in Hokitika. While exploring glacier country, cheap accommodation can be found at Franz Josef Top 10 Holiday Park. Motel options include Glenfern Villas at Franz Josef, Fox Glacier's Mt Cook View Motel and White Heron Sanctuary Tours Motel at Whataroa. For a hotel, check in at Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier or Heartland World Heritage Hotel in Haast and Te Waonui Forest Retreat in Franz Josef.

Local Knowledge

Air New Zealand Link offers flights from Hokitika to Christchurch, and Sounds Air from Westport to Wellington. By road Greymouth is 3 hours, 40 minutes from Christchurch. The region is also accessible via mountain pass from Nelson in the north and Otago in the south. Coach companies provide regular services, while the spectacularly scenic TranzAlpine rail journey runs daily from Christchurch to Greymouth. Looking for more on-the-ground information? There are i-SITE centres in Greymouth on Mackay Street, Hokitika at 36 Weld Street, Murchison at 47 Waller Street, Paparoa National Park on SH 6 in Punakaiki, Reefton at 67 Broadway, Westport at The Clocktower, Franz Josef on SH 6 or the Department of Conservation along SH 6 at Fox Glacier.

The Wairarapa is increasingly known as a gourmand's little paradise. Modern Wairarapa has embraced wine in a big way, and enthusiasts will find much to love in the region’s many vineyards. Take a gentle cycle tour of the wineries around Martinborough or explore cultural and wildlife attractions.

Do & Discover

Grapevines were first planted around Martinborough during the 1970s and there are now more than 50 vineyards in the Wairarapa. Note that some wineries are only open during summer months. Masterton and Martinborough i-SITES have wine trail maps. In Martinborough try Murdoch James Estate or visit Martinborough Wine Centre. Experience culture at Aratoi – the Wairarapa Museum of Art and History in Masterton – or via Carterton's Kiwiana quirk at Paua World, or get into nature at the Pukaha Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre. Historic Greytown has a diverse range of boutiques that are sure to intrigue everyone from casual browsers to shopaholics.

Food & Drink

With the rise of wine in the Wairarapa has come an associated foodie culture, and there are some sophisticated dining options on offer in the region. Toast Martinborough, an annual wine and food festival, is a major highlight on the region’s calendar and drawcard for foodies around New Zealand. Good cafés include Masterton's Ten O’Clock Cookie and Village Café in Martinborough. For more sophisticated fare, try Greytown's Bar Saluté – a smart tapas restaurant – Wairarapa Trading Company, Masterton, or The Bistro Restaurant in Martinborough.

Accommodation

There’s plenty of boutique accommodation on offer in the Wairarapa wine country, as well as larger establishments. When in Masterton try Copthorne Hotel & Resort Solway Park. Parehua Country Estate is a good option in Martinborough, as is Peppers Martinborough Hotel and the boutique-style accommodation of Petit Hotel.

Local Knowledge

The nearest airport to the region is Wellington International Airport, which offers domestic and international flights. Main centre Masterton is 1 hour, 25 minutes from Wellington by road, situated on SH2, or a long haul 9 hours, 15 minutes from Auckland. Coach companies provide regular services. Tranz Metro offers a regular rail service between Wellington and Masterton. Find out more at Martinborough i–SITE in The Square or Masterton i–SITE on the corners of Dixon and Bruce streets.

A rustic and unspoilt landscape, The Coromandel boasts rich heritage, rainforest and a spectacular coastline. Built on gold, it's now a famous haven for artists and craftspeople and home to a picturesque coastal playground waiting to be discovered.

Around the Region

Southern Coromandel Fascinating gold-mining history and lush rainforest are the main attractions at the southern end of The Coromandel. In the town of Waihi there’s a gold mine still very much in operation. Waihi is also the gateway to the rainforest-clad Karangahake Gorge, with its hiking trails and gold-mining relics. Beyond the gorge lies Paeroa, home of Lemon & Paeroa – New Zealand’s very own soft drink. North of Paeroa is Thames, main centre of The Coromandel. Thames has a rich history – the latter years of the 19th Century were the boom years of a gold rush.

Coastal Playground At the northern end is the beach resort of Whitianga; a sheltered harbour makes this a great spot for boating, fishing and kayaking. The drive south along the east coast is a visual treat, winding through forest and offering glimpses of the ocean. Gems along the way include Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach. Towards the southern end, Whangamata is known for great surf but also offers swimming, fishing, hiking and mountain biking.

Coromandel Beach Life Superb beaches are one of the main drawcards on the eastern coast of The Coromandel and the aces up the region’s sleeve are Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach. But these are not the only good beaches in the area. Whitianga’s gems include Buffalo Beach, stretching out along Mercury Bay north of the harbour, and Cooks Beach on the southern side. Whangamata has safe swimming at Whangamata Harbour and at Opoutere.

Must-Visit

Whitianga Situated in Mercury Bay, Whitianga offers watery activities in its deep-water harbour – fishing, boating, kayaking and swimming. Cathedral Cove and Hahei Tiny Hahei is a sleepy little place during winter, but emerges as a busy holiday town every summer. Great beaches ensure its summertime appeal. Hot Water Beach Grab a spade (or rent one from the store or café) and get digging – for two hours either side of low tide visitors can enjoy their very own hot pool in the sand! Tairua and Pauanui Twin towns on either side of a river estuary. Both have beaches. Whangamata One of the country’s most popular surfing towns, Whangamata offers great surf breaks that draw surfers from all over.

Do & Discover

The Coromandel combines natural attractions with a fascinating goldfields history. Dig your own hot pools at Hot Water Beach, launch into a canyoning or cycling adventure, tour a mine from the gold-rush era or just make the most of the region’s relaxed coastal playground. Dig into the area's gold-mining past at attractions such as the Thames Museum, Goldmine Experience and Waihi Gold Mine Tours, or get adventurous at Canyonz. Lush gardens abound around these parts – check out the green-thumbed genius behind the Rapaura Watergardens, Waterlily Gardens or kick back and soak in the Miranda Hot Springs. Make a splash in Coromandel Town with Coromandel Kayak Adventures or explore on foot with Coromandel Discovery. There's history to discover at Coromandel School of Mines & Historical Museum, crafts and heritage to enjoy at Driving Creek Railway & Potteries, and delicious treats from The Coromandel Smoking Co. Explore the Coromandel's magnificent coastline with Cathedral Cove Dive & Snorkel, Cathedral Cove Kayak Tours, and Glass Bottom Boat – Cathedral Cove Cruise. Unwind at The Lost Spring, take a personalised tour with Kiwi Dundee Adventures, or browse for unique gifts at shop/gallery Moko Artspace.

Food & Drink

The Coromandel is peppered throughout with excellent cafés and good restaurants. It’s also the spiritual home to New Zealand’s iconic soft drink and Kiwiana icon, L&P – the ‘P’ stands for Paeroa, and there’s no better place to try a bottle! In southern Coromandel there are several great cafés in Thames, including Coco Coffee Bar and Sola Café while the L&P Café, Bar and Brasserie in Paeroa is an iconic place to stop. Success Café is a Coromandel Town favourite. For more substantial fare, opt for contemporary Kiwi cuisine at Pepper Tree Restaurant & Bar or UMU Café, or sip a drink in the historic Star and Garter Hotel, established in 1873. Good coffee stops along Coromandel Coast include Café Coghill House, Hot Waves Café and The Old Mill Café, while you can get dinner with Kiwi fish ‘n’ chips at Craig’s Traditional Fish & Chips or gourmet burgers at Soul Burger. For something more substantial, Miha Restaurant serves Pacific Rim flavours with a European twist, while Salt Restaurant & Bar offers fine dining situated right on the waterfront. If you're feeling like a few quiet drinks or a big night, try Punters Bar & Grill.

Accommodation

The Coromandel has plenty of accommodation options available for those travelling on a budget, but there are a number of good options available for those looking for more sophisticated offerings as well. In southern Coromandel those looking for value should opt for Dickson Holiday Park. If you've got a bit more money to spend, check out Brunton House B&B, the Tuscany on Thames Motel, or the luxury of Poets Corner Lodge. Anchor Lodge Motel and Tui Lodge in Coromandel Town offer low-cost options while Coromandel Court Motel, Driving Creek Villas, Tangiaro Kiwi Retreat and The Little Farm provide a range of more upmarket options. A backpacker's paradise, the Coromandel Coast has plenty of cheaper accommodation options available, including On the Beach Backpackers, Pinnacles Lodge, and Hot Water Beach Top 10 Holiday Park. For family accommodation or a few more creature comforts, try Admiralty Lodge Motel, Albert No. 6, Beachfront Resort, Crow’s Nest Apartments, Marina Park Apartments, Pipi Dune B&B, The Esplanade Apartments Whitianga or the Grand Mercure Puka Park Resort.

Local Knowledge

There is no regional airport in The Coromandel, though there are small airstrips for flights from Auckland at Thames, Coromandel, Whitianga and Pauanui. The Coromandel is 90 minutes by road from Auckland, Rotorua or Tauranga. Coaches provide regular services to, from and around the region. The Coromandel can be a great region to explore and discover by car, although some roads are narrow and winding. A passenger ferry service to Coromandel also operates from Auckland. A ferry crosses between Whitianga and Ferry Landing. Find out more at i-SITEs at Thames, 200 Mary Street, Coromandel at 355 Kapanga Road, Whangamata, 616 Port Road and Whitianga at 66 Albert Street.

Separated by a glistening harbour, Tauranga and Mount Maunganui offer an idyllic lifestyle in a region bathed in sunshine. Tauranga Harbour is a popular stopover for cruise ships, and it’s also the departure point for cruises and fishing charters. On the other side of the harbour, the isthmus of Mount Maunganui is named for the hill that rises dramatically from the coast – known to Maori as ‘Mauao’.

Around the Regions

Aside from beachside Tauranga and Mount Maunganui, the western Bay of Plenty is bursting with other interesting destinations to explore. Katikati Those approaching from Auckland or The Coromandel will pass through the ‘mural town’ of Katikati. A popular stop along the Pacific Coast Highway, Katikati has more than 40 murals adorning buildings along the main street. Waihi Beach Further west, at the base of the Coromandel Peninsula, Waihi Beach is a popular getaway boasting excellent surf and a famous little hotel that’s a popular stop for touring Kiwi bands during the summer months. McLaren Falls Park This 170-hectare park offers walking trails, kayaking and trout fishing, and is the starting point for rafting trips on the Wairoa River. Offering some of New Zealand’s best white water, the Wairoa starts with Grade 2 cascades and builds to thundering Grade 5 rapids. Whakatane & White Island The eastern Bay of Plenty is a place of endless white-sand beaches bordered by red-flowering Potutukawa trees in summer. The main centre of the region, Whakatane, enjoys a setting that abounds with breath-taking natural landscapes, including the iconic sight of White Island (Whakaari), an active volcano just 50 kilometres offshore. The town has a laid-back ambience and plenty of restaurants and bars. Just over the hill is the beach resort of Ohope. Inland is an expanse of rugged native forest protected in Te Urewera and Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park.

Do & Discover

Get out on the Bay itself and enjoy a cruise or watersports, explore the active volcano White Island or discover the quirky offerings available on shore. The Bay of Plenty offers some amazing beach life, in all senses of the word. In Tauranga head out with Dolphin Seafaris and swim with some new friends, hit up Elements Watersports to try sailing or windsurfing, or visit kayak adventure park Waimarino. Hibiscus Surf School in Mount Maunganui will have you riding waves like a pro, while you can also pick up some moves at Salt Spray Surf School at Ohope Beach. For a heritage experience visit The Elms Te Papa Tauranga. White Island (Whakaari) is New Zealand’s most active volcano and has erupted periodically throughout the past few decades. Located just 50 kilometres offshore from Whakatane, it is easily accessible, but for safety’s sake must only be visited as part of a guided tour. Travel by air or boat – or go diving to see the volcano’s underwater structure. From the air, the sulphur-green crater lake wreathed in steam is an otherworldly sight. Helicopters are even able to land, allowing visitors the opportunity to walk on an active volcano. Kahu NZ at Whakatane Airport can get you in the air; otherwise, the other way of getting close to White Island is by boat – as an added bonus, visitors may also have the opportunity to spot dolphins or try their hand at fishing. Talk to White Island Tours in Whakatane. White Island is also a one-of-a-kind dive site. Like an iceberg, much of the volcano’s structure is underwater and the waters around the island are crystal-clear and home to a wide variety of marine life. Diveworks Charters in Whakatane can get you there.

Food & Drink

With everything from quirky cafés and great coffee to local watering holes and casual to fine dining, there’s something for all tastes in the Bay of Plenty. Tauranga and Mount Maunganui offer a sophisticated café and dining scene. Try Deckchair for coffee or a light bite. For a quiet pint or wine, try Rosie O’Grady’s. Restaurants worth your time include Astrolabe, Harbourside and Latitude 37. In Whakatane, head to The Bakehouse Café for good coffee in the east, Ohiwa Oyster Farm for fresh seafood takeaways, or Poppy’s Café for a full repast.

Accommodation

Rooms with views abound in the Bay of Plenty. In Tauranga and Mount Maunganui, try City Suites Tauranga or Cutters Cove. For a more economical option try Harbourside City Backpackers, Pacific Coast Lodge & Backpackers or Papamoa Beach Resort. Over in Whakatane, Ohope Beach Top 10 Holiday Park, The Windsor, and White Island Rendezvous are good providers of a range of different accommodation options.

Local Knowledge

Tauranga Airport, in Mount Maunganui, has direct flights to Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, along with a few smaller North Island destinations. The nearest international airports are in Rotorua and Hamilton, both of which offer trans-Tasman flights. Auckland International Airport is the closest full-service international airport. Access by road from Auckland is via the Pacific Coast Highway (2 hours, 55 minutes). Tauranga is 1 hour from Rotorua. Coaches provide regular services around the region. Find out more at Tauranga i–SITE, 95 Willow Street, or Whakatane i–SITE at the corner of Quay Street and Kakaharoa Drive.

The main centre of the Central North Island is Taupō, a lakeside resort offering an excellent range of accommodation, dining and activities. Lake Taupō is the focal point for the town. From swimming to boating and fishing, it offers a wealth of outdoor recreation options. The small town of Turangi on the southern shores of Lake Taupō is the hub of trout fishing in the region.

Do & Discover

The majestic Lake Taupō plays host to activities as varied as fishing, cruising, paddling, flight-seeing and water sports. Away from the great lake, there’s a variety of attractions that range from a relaxing round of golf to the thrill of one of the country’s top skydiving operations. Get out on the waters of Australasia's largest lake with Canoe & Kayak, Chris Jolly Outdoors, Flyfish Taupō and Taupō Rod & Tackle, or get a bird's-eye view with Taupō’s Floatplane.  For action and adventure, try Formula Challenge, Hukafalls Jet, or take the plunge with Skydive Taupō, Freefall Skydive, or Taupō Tandem Skydiving. For a more relaxed experience, unwind at Taupō DeBretts Hot Springs or the AC Baths, play a round at Wairakei International Golf Course, discover the story of the lake at the Taupō Museum, explore geothermal activity in the area at Orakei Korako Cave & Thermal Park, the Volcanic Activity Centre, or visit unique attractions at the Huka Honey Hive or the Huka Prawn Park.

Food & Drink

The busy town of Taupō offers some great spots to grab a coffee as well as some sophisticated dining options, and there are also some culinary gems waiting for you elsewhere around the region. Head to Licorice Café in Turangi or Taupō's justifiably popular Replete Food Company for great coffee or cabinet food. For dining in Taupō, try Edgewater Restaurant, Lotus Thai, The Brantry, Pimentos Restaurant, or contemporary Kiwi chic at Plateau Restaurant & Bar.

Accommodation

Taupō draws plenty of travellers to its natural wonders and central location and, accordingly, there’s plenty of good accommodation offerings that range from high-end resorts to decent basic lodgings. Stay on-budget at Tiki Lodge or Lake Taupō Top 10 Holiday Resort, house the clan at Bella Vista Motel Taupō, Quest Taupō, or Camellia Court Motel, or go upmarket with Bayview Wairakei Resort, Huka Falls Resort, or Millennium Hotel & Resort Manuels Taupō.

Local Knowledge

Taupō Airport is 10 minutes from town and offers domestic flights to Auckland and Wellington. Numerous scenic flights, fishing safaris and skydive flights also operate out of Taupō Airport. Taupō is located on State Highway 1, midway between Auckland and Wellington. It is four hours by road from Auckland and five hours from Wellington. The drive around the eastern side of the lake from Taupō to Turangi takes about 40 minutes. Coach and shuttle services operate to popular visitor activities. Find out more at the Taupō i–SITE, 30 Tongariro Street.

Presided over by the majestic, conical Mount Taranaki, the region combines the gentle charms of rural New Zealand with the surprisingly sophisticated cultural offerings of its main centre, New Plymouth.

Do & Discover

The charming town of New Plymouth houses one of the country’s best art galleries, while outside the town, the magnificent Mount Taranaki can be trekked, viewed by air, and even skied. Take a bus tour with Eastern Taranaki Experience. Taranaki boasts a number of interesting cultural institutions including the Fun Ho! National Toy Museum in Inglewood, New Plymouth's acclaimed Govett–Brewster Art Gallery and Puke Ariki, while Hawera is home to the Tawhiti Museum. You can also step back in time at Taranaki Pioneer Village. Take a tour with Taranaki Tours, or if you feel like getting out on the water, talk to TaraWave Surf School.

Food & Drink

New Plymouth has received plenty of kudos in competitions and surveys naming New Zealand’s top places to live, and it’s easy to see why with the number of enjoyable cafés, restaurants and bars that this seaside town has to offer. Cafés worth investigating include the deli-style deliciousness of Café Govett-Brewster, Ozone Coffee (worth seeking out for a great cuppa joe), and Petit Paris. For dining, consider Italian cuisine with sea views at Arborio Restaurant Café & Bar, or Salt on the Waterfront. Dinner done and time to hit the town? Try Crowded House Bar and Café, Frederic’s or the Whangamomona Hotel.

Accommodation

Rest your head in this relaxing corner of the country at one of several good accommodation options to suit different budgets. Ducks and Drakes Boutique Motel and Backpackers in New Plymouth and Stratford Holiday Park are good options for those on a budget. Those with a bit more to spend might opt for Beach Street Motel Apartments or Millennium Hotel New Plymouth Waterfront.

Local Knowledge

New Plymouth Airport, 15 minutes’ drive from the centre of town, offers daily flights to Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. Flights to smaller North Island destinations are available with Sunair. New Plymouth is 5 hours and 15 minutes from Auckland by road and 5 hours, 5 minutes from Wellington (via SH 3). Bus companies provide regular services to New Plymouth. The Forgotten World Highway (SH 43) and Surf Highway 45 (SH 45) offer picturesque alternatives to the main roads. Find out more at the local Department of Conservation office at 55A Rimu Street or New Plymouth i–SITE, 65 St Aubyn Street.

Known for the ‘southern hospitality’ of its down-to-earth locals, Invercargill is a medium-sized town that makes a great base for exploring the surrounding landscape.

Southland is a glorious place of green hills and rivers, and the setting for a range of outdoor activities including fishing, hiking and biking. As the main centre, Invercargill is well served with amenities. A short drive south is Bluff. Though it’s not officially the southernmost point on mainland New Zealand, it does represent the southern end of SH 1 and is the departure point for ferries to Stewart Island. Traversing Southland all the way from Dunedin to Fiordland, the Southern Scenic Route is 440 kilometres long and is best travelled over several days. The Catlins is a coastal region of forest reserves, waterfalls and beaches. Home to native wildlife such as penguins and seals, it is also the location of a Jurassic-era petrified forest at Curio Bay. From here, the route winds down to Invercargill and Bluff, and on to Riverton and Tuatapere in the region’s southwest (location of the Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track) and on to Te Anau.

New Zealand’s third-largest island offers a slice of unspoiled wilderness where native birds thrive. In 2002, Stewart Island’s unique qualities were recognised with the formation of Rakiura National Park, which covers 85 per cent of the island. The principal settlement of Oban has several accommodation options, as well as shops and restaurants, and is a welcoming base from which to experience the island’s many activities, from kayaking and hiking to unforgettable wildlife encounters. Rakiura National Park is an otherworldly place covering approximately 157,000 hectares and encompassing a range of landscapes including jagged peaks, lush lowland forest, wetlands and sand dunes. These beaches are one of the few places in New Zealand where visitors regularly see wild kiwi – they come down to the beach at dusk to forage.

Do & Discover

You may be surprised by the cultural attractions that await at the bottom of the country, while the rugged attractions of Southland’s natural environment and the under-visited Stewart Island are both crying out for exploration. Get cultured at Invercargill Public Art Gallery or explore the history of the south at Bluff Maritime Museum, the Hokonui Moonshine Museum in Gore and Te Hikoi Southern Journey Museum in Riverton. There are numerous ways to get out and explore Southland's unique wilderness: hit the Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track, or head to Stewart Island and explore the environment by sea with Bravo Adventure Cruises or Rakiura Charters, by air with Rakiura Helicopters or on land with the Ruggedy Range Wilderness Experience, Stewart Island Experience, or Ulva’s Guided Walks. Tired after all that exploration? Relax at Stewart Island Spa.

Food & Drink

Don’t leave Southland without sampling the iconic cheese roll! If you’re there in season, Bluff oysters are a must too. There’s a number of good café and restaurants about, and even remote Stewart Island offers good dining options. Sip a coffee in Invercargill at The Rocks or Zookeepers Café (locals rave about the great breakfasts here!). Elsewhere, try Green Room Café in Gore or Mrs. Clark’s Café in Riverton, with its great coffee and old-fashioned Kiwi baking. During the evening, dine at the acclaimed Buster Crabb, Elegance at 148 on Elles Restaurant, where an intimate dining room and impressive wine list ensure popularity among locals. When on Stewart Island, the South Sea Hotel's menu is worth checking out.

Accommodation

Choose from welcoming backpackers, cosy motels and upmarket hotels in Southland, all of which offer the famous ‘Southern hospitality’. Stewart Island, too, offers a decent range of accommodation options. Good cheaper options include the Invercargill Top 10 Holiday Park and Kackling Kea Backpackers. If you're looking for a motel, try Invercargill's Homestead Villa Motel or, for fancier digs, stay at the Heartland Hotel Croydon in Gore or The Lodge at Tikana in Winton. On Stewart Island, there's good budget accommodation at Bunkers Backpackers, motel options with Bay Motel and Rakiura Retreat Motel, boutique accommodation at Pilgrim Cottage and Port of Call B&B, or Stewart Island Lodge.

Local Knowledge

Invercargill Airport offers domestic flights to Christchurch and Wellington with Air New Zealand. Flights to Stewart Island take approximately 20 minutes; options include flying from Invercargill and landing on a Stewart Island beach. If travelling by road, you'll find Invercargill located at the southern end of SH 1. The town is 3 hours, 10 minutes from Dunedin and 8 hours, 30 minutes from Christchurch. Coach companies provide scheduled services to the region. Stewart Island is a one-hour boat trip from Bluff. Charters and water taxis operate around Stewart Island. Call in at Gore i–SITE at 16 Hokonui Drive, Invercargill i–SITE or the DOC Rakiura National Park Visitor Centre on Stewart Island for more information.

Thrust up by the Earth’s powerful forces, the active volcanic triumvirate of Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngāuruhoe watch over the central North Island. The violent forces at work in the area’s geological past have led to a spectacular and starkly beautiful landscape that became the land of Mordor in the Lord of the Rings film trilogy.

In winter, skiers and boarders flock to the North Island’s largest, most popular and well-equipped ski fields in the Ruapehu region. Away from the slopes, New Zealand’s National Army Museum is well worth a visit, and there are options for experiencing the region’s stark volcanic geography by land or air.

Do & Discover

Hit the slopes on Mount Ruapehu at Tukino Ski Area, Turoa Ski Area, or Whakapapa Ski Area. Further outdoor adventures can be experienced with Adrift Guided Outdoor Adventures, in the National Park Village, canoeing with Yeti Tours in Tongariro, or get the big picture with some flight-seeing with Mountain Air in Mount Ruapehu. The National Army Museum in Waiouru offers a fascinating insight into New Zealand's military history.

Food & Drink

A busy little café and restaurant scene has arisen in the Ruapehu region to meet the needs of the skiers that come flocking each winter. You can find more substantial fare at Basekamp, National Park Village, and first-class dining in ambient surroundings at Bayview Chateau Tongariro's Ruapehu Restaurant. For down-to-earth favourites like pizza and burgers, and a packed schedule of live music during winter, hit up Schnapps Bar, or try Station Café Bar & Restaurant (both in the National Park Village), which is a café by day and restaurant by night, housed in a stunning 100-year-old railway station. Finally, The Powderhorn at Powderhorn Chateau is a buzzing après ski hangout during the winter months.

Accommodation

Snow sports fans and other travellers will find a number of good accommodation options for different budget ranges in the Ruapehu region. Treat yourself at the Bayview Chateau Tongariro or  Skotel Alpine Resort at Mount Ruapehu, house the family comfortably at the Peaks Motor Inn in Ohakune or save money for the slopes at The Park Hotel Ruapehu in the National Park Village or Whakapapa Holiday Park at Whakapapa Village.

Local Knowledge

The nearest airport is Taupō Airport, which offers domestic flights to and from Auckland and Wellington. International flights are not available. The nearest international airport is in Auckland. Ruapehu is in the central North Island, midway between Auckland and Wellington, on the southern shore of Lake Taupō. You can reach Whakapapa Village in 5 hours, 30 minutes by road from Auckland and in 4 hours, 55 minutes from Wellington. Scheduled coach services and shuttle services operate between central Taupō, Mount Ruapehu and popular visitor activities. To get around while you're there, try Adventure HQ or Tongariro Expeditions. Find out more at the Department of Conservation in Whakapapa Village or the Ruapehu i–SITE at 54 Clyde Street, Ohakune.

You’ll smell Rotorua before you see it – a distinctive sulphur smell identifies this as an active geothermal area. The geothermal activity manifests in strange features such as bubbling mud pools and hot mineral pools, some of which have been developed into bathing complexes. Aside from geothermal activity, Rotorua is also famous for its cultural experiences and a host of other activities.

Do & Discover

Situated on a geothermal field, Rotorua features an abundance of geysers and bubbling mud pools. In Kuirau Park, thermal features are readily accessible to any visitor, but for a more extreme experience, head to one of the geothermal parks. Here is where you’ll find the largest geysers and most spectacular mud pools. The geothermal activity also lends itself to the luxurious experience of bathing in a hot mineral pool. You can experience the area's spectacular natural assets at one of several locations including Hell’s Gate, Te Puia, Waimangu Volcanic Valley, Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland or Whakarewarewa – The Thermal Village. ‘Take the cure’ for yourself in modern, relaxing surroundings at Hell’s Gate Mud Trail & Mud Spa and Polynesian Spa, or bathe at the historic Blue Baths. In addition to geothermal activity, Rotorua is famous for making Māori culture accessible to all visitors. A popular option is to combine a kapa haka (performing arts) performance with a hāngi, a traditional method of cooking where food is buried underground to cook in its own steam. Several complexes feature art and crafts demonstrations and workshops, or fascinating replica villages that bring history to life. Experience unique cultural attractions at the Buried Village of Te Wairoa, Mitai Māori Village, and Tamaki Māori Village and learn more at Rotorua Museum.

Looking for something more adventurous? Rotorua offers plenty of ways to get a thrill. Jet boating with Katoa Lake Rotorua, rafting and kayaking with the team at River Rats and sledging (rushing down river on a boogie board) are popular options – the Kaituna River offers Grade 5 rapids, including a 7-metre drop at the Okere Falls – and in addition Whakarewarewa Forest is criss-crossed with mountain biking trails. Experience bungy, swoop, freefall extreme and the unique 'shweeb' at Velocity Valley. Back in town, ride the gondola and then race back down on the luge, or try Globe Riding (rolling downhill in an oversized plastic ball!) with OGO Zorb Rotorua. Explore Rotorua's geothermal wonderland with Mokoia Island Wai Ora Experiences, MDA Experiences, Rotorua Duck Tours or from the Skyline gondola. There's also the chance to get your Hobbit on at Hobbiton Movie Set, experience the New Zealand farm lifestyle at Agrodome, or take a lake cruise on the Lakeland Queen. Take to the trails with Planet Bike and Off Road NZ or encounter New Zealand wildlife at Paradise Valley Springs or Rainbow Springs.

Food & Drink

As an area of heavy tourist activity, Rotorua has established a vibrant dining scene, as well as several enjoyable options for an evening out. Taking a Māori Food Trail with Charles Royal Māori Food Trails allows you to enjoy both an authentic cultural experience and delicious food. For coffee and a bite, try Capers Epicurean, the relaxed vibe of Fat Dog Café or al fresco dining at Lime Caffeteria. When it's time to head out for dinner, Cableway Restaurant, Wild Rice Thai Cuisine and The Blue Baths Cabaret Dinner Show are all good, mid-priced options, with the latter offering a glittering dinner show filled with fine food and fabulous entertainment. At the higher end, Urbano Bistro has won many admirers. When heading out after dinner, try fine craft beers at BREW– and no night out is complete without calling into historic local landmark The Pig & Whistle.

Accommodation

Whether you’re seeking top-end accommodation at a relaxing spa resort or exclusive lodge, or the social environment of a busy backpackers, Rotorua offers visitors a wide array of excellent accommodation options. For backpackers try Base Rotorua or Funky Green Voyager. Blue Lake Top 10 Holiday Park and Rotorua Top 10 Holiday Park also provide good-value options. There are plenty of quality self-contained and serviced options, including Ambassador Thermal Motel, Capri Court Motor Inn, East West Apartments, Emerald Spa Motor Inn, Regal Palms and Tuscany Villas. Hosted options include the boutique Hamurana Lodge, Koura Lodge and Peppers on the Point. For upmarket accommodation, investigate hotel accommodation with Novotel Rotorua Lakeside, Rydges Rotorua or Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort at Holdens Bay. For ultra-exclusive accommodation, opt for Lake Okareka Lodge or the Treetops Lodge and Estate.

Local Knowledge

Rotorua Regional Airport operates domestic flights from several New Zealand towns. The airport is 10 minutes’ drive from town. Rotorua is situated on the Thermal Explorer Highway. Centrally located, Rotorua is easily accessible from Auckland, the Bay of Plenty, Waikato and Taupo. It is 3 hours’ drive from Auckland, 1 hour, 30 minutes from Hamilton and 1 hour, 15 minutes from Tauranga. Find out more at the Rotorua i–SITE or Tourism Rotorua, both at 1167 Fenton Street.

Queenstown has a well-deserved reputation as the adventure capital of New Zealand. Bungy jumping and the Shotover Jet have become iconic activities, but there’s so much more on offer. Skiing is another huge attraction, with a range of top fields within easy reach. Those looking for a more relaxed experience can soak in a hot pool or take in the jaw-dropping scenery on a lake cruise.

Do & Discover

Local legends A.J. Hackett and Henry van Asch helped put Queenstown on the international map when they opened the world’s first commercial bungy operation – AJ Hackett Bungy – Kawarau Bridge Bungy – at Kawarau Bridge in 1988. Today, bungy jumping is just one (albeit a must-do) of many adrenaline-pumping activities in New Zealand’s ‘adventure capital’ – experience the original at Kawarau Bridge or challenge yourself to the country's highest bungy (134 metres) at the Nevis River. The Ledge Bungy is right in Queenstown, with fantastic views over the resort and lake. Other vertigo-inducing activities to try include Ledge Sky Swing, Nevis Arc and Nevis Highwire, Shotover Canyon Swing and Ziptrek Ecotours. Queenstown's shallow but powerful rivers are perfect for high-speed jet boating. Take off into the wilderness on a jet boat safari or zip close to the rocks in a river gorge on the Shotover or Kawarau rivers with Shotover Jet, Dart River Adventures and Skippers Canyon Jet. Rent skis or a board and hit the slopes at Coronet Peak Ski Area and The Remarkables Ski Area. Queenstown is home to top ski resorts boasting incredible views, as well as a number of heli-ski operators like Harris Mountains Heli-Ski and Southern Lakes Heliski, who are ready to whisk keen snow bunnies to untracked backcountry powder.

Take on the white-water with Go Orange, riverboarding.co.nz and Dart River Jet Funyak Safari, hit the calmer lake with Million Dollar Cruise and TSS Earnslaw Cruises or take a dip at Alpine Aqualand and Onsen Hot Pools. Back on land enjoy a 4WD adventure with Nomad Safaris, one on horseback with High Country Horses or see the sights on two wheels with HeliBike NZ and Central Otago Motorcycle Tours, or on four with Real Journeys and Southern Discoveries. Prefer to walk? Join Ultimate Hikes and get Trackhopper Routeburn Car Relocation to make sure your car's waiting for you when you're done, or take flight with Air Fiordland, Coronet Peak Tandems, Over The Top – The Helicopter Company, and Skytrek Hang Gliding. Ride the Skyline Queenstown then take the thrilling Skyline Luge back down, hit the links at Millbrook Resort and meet the wildlife at Kiwi Birdlife Park and at the Queenstown Underwater Observatory. Catch your own fish dinner with Stu Dever Fishing Charters, or get a Māori cultural fix with Kiwi Haka, visit the Lakes District Museum and Gallery, or unwind at So Spa at Sofitel and The Spa at Millbrook Resort. Catch a film at lovely little Dorothy Browns or at Reading Cinema. If you're feeling lucky, head to SKYCITY Queenstown Casino.

Food & Drink

The number of excellent coffee, restaurant and nightlife options available in Queenstown almost seems out of all proportion to its actual size. The town itself is famous for its nightlife scene, and there are plenty of great places to eat to suit all budgets and tastes before you head out for the evening. Get a taste for the region at Amisfield, The Winery, or Gibbston Valley winery, or take a tour with Queenstown Wine Trail. Great coffee is a Queenstown institution. For an epic brew head to Peak Espresso, Vudu Café or Joe’s Garage, an understated garage-style café that prides itself on awesome food. Over in Arrowtown, look for Bonjour Café. For the budget conscious, legendary Fergburger is a must. Others to try are Habebes Lebanese & Vegetarian Takeaways, Halo and Kappa Sushi Café. For casual dining head to @Thai, or The Cow, an iconic eatery serving great Italian cuisine. Winnies has great atmosphere and the best beer-battered fries! Looking for fine dining? There are plenty of ways to indulge. Try Bella Cucina, Botswana Butchery or The Bunker, which boasts a menu of the finest Otago produce. In Arrowtown, try Rosie B’s. Kick on at any one of Queenstown’s chic bars including Bardeaux and Bar Up. For live music, check out Pub on Wharf and Surreal Bar & Restaurant.

Accommodation

Accommodation in the Queenstown region ranges from the most exclusive luxury lodges to backpacker hostels, from where travellers are well-placed to get the most of the resort town’s frenetic social scene. For an exclusive escape, Blanket Bay in Glenorchy is a must, while slick hotel accommodation includes Central Ridge Boutique Hotel, Heritage Queenstown, Hotel St Moritz, Millbrook Resort, Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel, Rydges Lakeland Resort Queenstown, Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa, The Dairy Private Luxury Hotel, The Rees Hotel Queenstown and The Spire Hotel Queenstown. Those looking for a guested and hosted stay should try Azur Lodge and Browns Boutique Hotel. For self-contained and serviced lodgings, check in at Arrowtown Viking LodgeMotel, Autoline Motel, Cranbury Court Apartments, Garden Court Suites & Apartments, Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu, The Glebe Apartments, The Lodges and Turner Heights Townhouses. Saving your pennies? Try Frankton Motor Camp, Absoloot Value Accommodation backpackers and Adventure Queenstown Hostel & Chalet.

Local Knowledge

Queenstown Airport, 10 minutes’ drive from town, offers domestic flights to Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, as well as some trans-Tasman services. A bus service operates between the airport and town. Buses depart every 20 minutes, 17 hours per day. For those on a road trip Queenstown is 6 hours, 15 minutes from Christchurch, 5 hours from Milford, and 1 hour, 30 minutes from Wanaka. Coach and shuttle services operate between Queenstown and other South Island destinations. Transfers to and from Arrowtown, and to ski areas during winter, are also readily available. For a heads-up when your there, call into the Arrowtown Visitor Information Centre at 49 Buckingham Street, Queenstown's Department of Conservation Visitor Information Centre in Stanley Street, or the Queenstown i–SITE in the Clocktower Building.

Northland offers a spectacular coastal and marine environment with excellent beaches, truly world-class diving and hundreds of islands to discover and explore. On land, you can visit some of the nation’s most significant historic sites and gain a fascinating insight into New Zealand culture.

Around the Regions

Beach Life on the East Coast An essential stop along the Twin Coast Discovery Highway for most visitors, the east coast of Northland is an easy drive north of Auckland and, with a coastline that boasts numerous beautiful beaches, it’s a popular summer holiday destination for Kiwis. The Tutukaka Coast, Whangarei Heads, Waipu and Bream Bay are all enticing beachside destinations and each has a unique character all of its own. Within easy reach of the beaches is Whangarei; with a population hovering around 50,000, it’s the only city in Northland. With a good selection of facilities, eateries and shops and a marina right at its heart, it is an ideal base for boating, fishing and exploring. Tutukaka Coast: Gateway to the famous Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve, Tutukaka is home to a marina where you can join a diving adventure, fishing charter or laid-back cruise. Waipu and Bream Bay: From Pohutukawa-fringed Waipu Cove and Langs Beach to the wide-open expanse of Ruakaka, there’s no shortage of sun, sand and surf in Bream Bay. Whangarei Heads: Whangarei Heads is home to numerous great beaches from the sheltered bays of Whangarei Harbour to the 5km stretch of sand at Ocean Beach.

Bay of Islands The Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand’s most popular tourist destinations – and no wonder! Sheltered coves, glorious white-sand beaches and dozens of islands, all in a mild subtropical climate, make this the ultimate maritime playground, perfect for boating, fishing, kayaking, dolphin spotting and swimming. This is the birthplace of New Zealand as a nation; the place where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840. Paihia: The main town in the bay and departure point for cruises, fishing charters and sailing adventures, Paihia offers a good range of accommodation, eateries and shops. Kerikeri: Famous for lush subtropical orchards and roadside stalls selling avocados and citrus, as well as an art and craft trail and wellness retreats. Russell: Known in centuries gone by as a lawless port teeming with whalers, sailors and escaped convicts, today Russell is a charming village full of cafés and galleries. Waitangi: At the Waitangi Treaty House and Grounds, visitors can see the Treaty House and Te Whare Runanga, a fully carved Māori meeting house, all set within a beautifully tranquil 506-hectare waterside estate.

Ways to See the Bay What you see on land is just a small portion of this place’s magic – much more lies offshore, in private coves and on shimmering waterways. Departing from the main wharf in town, many cruises visit the Hole in the Rock off Cape Brett – some even pass right through it! Sailing is another exciting way to see the many different bays and islands. The Bay of Islands has been famous for fishing since Zane Grey, American writer and adventurer, visited in the 1920s. With species from marlin to shark, tuna and kingfish, this is one of the world’s foremost game fishing destinations. For a budget-friendly cruise, hop aboard a ferry to Russell. Passenger ferries depart from Paihia Wharf, while just down the road at Opua, a car ferry departs every 10 minutes throughout the day. The Bay of Islands is inhabited by several species of dolphins, whales and penguins. Any boat trip offers the chance to spot the local marine wildlife, but some cruises enable visitors to enter the water and swim with dolphins!

The Far North The northernmost tip of New Zealand’s North Island is a remote and magical place where vast stretches of beach and immense sand dunes form a wild backdrop to a range of adventure activities. Kaitaia is New Zealand’s northernmost town and the gateway to iconic sights such as Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach. Pause here to join a guided tour or stock up on groceries – amenities are scarce further north along the Aupouri Peninsula.

Exploring Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach The road to Cape Reinga is partially unsealed and the alternative, Ninety Mile Beach itself, can be hazardous to vehicles – it’s not uncommon to see stranded cars that have become bogged down. For these reasons, most car hire companies do not permit their vehicles to be driven to the Cape, and the best option is to join a guided tour. Day tours depart from the Bay of Islands or Kaitaia and many include sand-tobogganing. This unique thrill involves climbing to the top of a sand dune and sliding down on a boogie board!

Northland’s Wild West Coast The west coast of Northland is a patchwork of rural landscapes, country towns and some of New Zealand’s largest remaining forests of Kauri trees. Dargaville, the main centre, offers a good range of amenities beside the mighty Northern Wairoa River. North of the Kauri Coast, the Hokianga is a beautiful, unpretentious place of mangroves and quaint villages. Hokianga Harbour: Hokianga offers visitors authentic New Zealand culture in an unspoilt landscape. The region draws artists seeking inspiration, resulting in a thriving arts and crafts scene, and visitors will find a host of walks and boat tours as well as adrenaline-pumping pursuits such as sand tobogganing and mountain biking. Horeke: This was New Zealand’s second European settlement, after Russell in the Bay of Islands. Rawene: New Zealand’s third-oldest European settlement is home to historic buildings including Clendon House, built in the 1860s by New Zealand’s first US Consul. Opononi & Omapere: These towns are strung along a white-sand beach. In the 1950s a wild dolphin spent a summer befriending swimmers here – a statue stands near its grave.

Do & Discover

Northland is a marine paradise and there are plenty of ways to make the most of the coasts, beaches and islands of the region and experience the water. Try Dive! Tutukaka and Perfect Day Ocean Cruise at the Poor Knights Dive Centre and Tutukaka Surf. In Paihia, choose from Coastal Kayakers and Paihia Dive, while Northland Sea Kayaking can be found at Tauranga Bay. Northland boasts a huge number of heritage sites and offers a unique look at the history of New Zealand both pre- and post-European colonisation. Take in the Culture North Night Show in Paihia or visit the Kerikeri Mission House, Pompallier Mission in Russell, Russell Museum, Kerikeri Basin's Stone Store, Waipu Museum, Whangarei Museum, Kiwi North in Whangarei, Matakohe's unique Kauri Museum, Dargaville Museum, Claphams National Clock Museum  in Whangarei, or New Zealand's most historic site, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds in Paihia, where New Zealand became a modern nation with the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi. Tour Northland with Far North Outback Adventures, Explore Urupukapuka Island, Fullers GreatSights, Russell Mini Tours or Footprints Waipoua. Want to indulge your adventurous streak? Head to the Ahipara Adventure Centre, Ahipara Horse Treks to take in the sights on horseback, or the Wairere Boulders Nature Park.

Food & Drink

Regional hub Whangarei offers some excellent restaurants, and there are more, as well as some great cafes and pubs, dotted around the wider Northland region. The Mangonui Fish Shop has established a reputation for itself as the nationwide champion of the favourite Kiwi takeaway – fish and chips. For coffee in Whangarei, try Nectar and at Whangarei Heads visit The Deck Café, an unpretentious place that serves good wine as well as great fish and chips! For more substantial fare, try Frings. In the Bay of Islands, seek out the gourmet fare at Makana Confections Kerikeri. Good restaurant options in the Bay include Zane Grey’s Restaurant and Bar, Darryl’s Dinner Cruises, where you can soak up the glorious scenery while you eat, and The Black Olive. If you're after a drink, hit the Duke of Marlborough Hotel or Rocksalt Bar & Restaurant. In the Far North, Okahu Estate Winery in Kaitaia is worth a look, while Birdies Café in the heart of Kaitaia gets consistently good reviews. For cheap eats, sample Mangonui Fish Shop's ‘world famous in New Zealand’ fish and chips, or head to Beachcomber Restaurant or Karikari Estate, which offers incredible views from its cliff-top vantage point. Over in the Hokianga, Bryers Room Restaurant at Copthorne Hotel & Resort Hokianga is a good option for dinner.

Accommodation

Northland has plenty of options for travellers on a budget but also provides options at the other end of the scale, with some internationally renowned luxury retreats. In and around Whangarei try Little Earth Lodge, Lodge Bordeaux, Pacific Rendezvous Resort Motel in Tutukaka or the Tutukaka Holiday Park. You'll find good providers in the Bay of Islands including Arcadia Lodge, Base Bay of Islands, Paihia Top 10 Holiday Park, Casa Bella Motel in Paihia, Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge Paihia, Russell Cottages and The Duke of Marlborough Hotel. In the Far North, check out the Doubtless Bay Lodge offerings. At the other end of the scale there's Ninety Mile Beach Holiday Park and Puketiti Lodge backpackers. On the West Coast and in Hokianga Harbour try Copthorne Hotel & Resort Hokianga, Kauri Coast Top 10 Holiday Park, Kokohuia Lodge’s BB offering in Hokianga Harbour, the Postmaster’s Lodgings (also a B&B), The Tree House backpackers and, for a little piece of luxury etched in history, there's Waipoua Lodge in Dargaville.

Local knowledge

Whangarei, Kerikeri and Kaitaia airports offer domestic flights. Access to Northland via road from Auckland is via SH 1 on the east coast and SH 12 on the west – together they form the Twin Coast Discovery Highway. The Northern Gateway Toll Road costs NZ$2.30 for cars, but shortens the journey to Northland by about 15 minutes. Coaches operate between main centres. Vehicle ferries operate across the Hokianga Harbour between Rawene and Kohukohu, and across the Bay of Islands between Opua and Okiato. Passenger-only services operate between Paihia and Russell. Get around with Salt Air. Find out more at the Whangarei i-SITE, 92 Otaika Road, Kaitaia i-SITE at the corner of South Road and Matthews Avenue, Paihia i-SITE at The Wharf, Dargaville Visitor Information Centre, 4 Murdoch Street, or Opononi i-SITE at 29 SH 12.

There’s so much on offer in Nelson and the Abel Tasman that it can be hard to know where to start! There are plenty of ways to explore the region’s magnificent coasts, and much to discover in the urban centres of charming Nelson or quirky Takaka. The good news is that if you’re overwhelmed by options, a simple afternoon on a gorgeous golden sand beach is always a valid option!

Do & Discover

Rich in history, Nelson and Abel Tasman are artistic and creative hotspots on the New Zealand scene. Get your fix at Founders Heritage Park, Höglund Art Glass Studio & Gallery in Appleby, The Nelson Provincial Museum, The Suter Art Gallery Te Aratoi o Whakatu and the world-renowned World of WearableArt™ and Classic Cars Museum. Sample the bounty of this region's prolific offerings at one of the region's many wineries – Neudorf Vineyards is a good place to start. You can also combine the best of both worlds on a tour with Wine, Art & Wilderness, or catch and cook your lunch at Anatoki Salmon in Takaka. Thrill seekers and outdoor explorers are well catered for. Enjoy an on-the-water adventure with Abel Tasman Kayaks, Golden Bay Kayaks, Cable Bay Kayaks, via jet boating with Buller Canyon Jet in Murchison, or by setting sail with Abel Tasman Sailing Adventures. Those preferring to stay dry can join a guided walk with Nelson's Southern Wilderness, and Kahurangi Guided Walks in Takaka. Explore the region on two wheels with Biking Nelson or on four legs with Cape Farewell Horse Treks. Experience views from the top in Motueka with Skydive Abel Tasman and Tasman Helicopters.

Exploring Farewell Spit: You’ll feel like you’re travelling to the end of the earth on a four-wheel-drive tour of Farewell Spit – the longest natural sandbar in the world stretches 35 kilometres into the ocean. The spit is a bird sanctuary and during summer months it is home to thousands of migratory birds. More than 90 bird species have been observed here. Explore with Farewell Spit Tours.
Kahurangi National Park: South of Golden Bay is Kahurangi National Park. Established in 1996, it covers 452,900 hectares, making it New Zealand’s second-largest national park. It protects a diverse range of landscapes from coastal forest to alpine meadows, and contains numerous hiking trails including the Heaphy Track. Walking the 78-kilometre trail to the West Coast takes four to six days.

Shopping & Style

The Nelson and Abel Tasman region abounds with artists and craftspeople, and their output ranges from the quirky to the exquisite. Worth a visit are Cool Store Gallery in Mapua, Nelson creators of The Lord of the Rings ring Jens Hansen Gold & Silversmith and Richmond Mall.

Food & Drink

Dining establishments in this region range from cosmopolitan sophistication to small-town charm and rural character. There’s good news too for hopheads, with the region producing an extensive range of excellent craft beers. Cafés to try in Nelson include Lambretta’s, Morrison Street Café and The Swedish Bakery & Café. Founders Organic Café & Brewery is the home of Founders Brewery, Australasia’s first certified organic brewery, and uses organic, local and fresh ingredients. In Motueka, favourites include The Red Beret, with excellent cuisine served in a casual and character-filled dining room. Cafés to try in Golden Bay are Dangerous Kitchen and The Penguin Café & Bar. For good dining options in Nelson, try Boat Shed Café, with its over-the-water setting in an ambient old building. Other options include Hopgood’s. Offerings available in Abel Tasman include international cuisine at Jester House or The Park Café. Community pubs are the order of the day in Golden Bay. Try Telegraph Hotel or The Mussel Inn for a rustic spot serving house-brewed beer. Not ready for bed just yet? Stop for a drink at Nelson's Liquid NZ Bar, The Free House or The Sprig & Fern Tavern, or The Honest Lawyer Country Pub, a very popular English-style pub right on the Waimea Estuary.

Accommodation

Nelson and the Abel Tasman are particularly backpacker-friendly areas of New Zealand, but if you’re looking for extensive facilities and a little bit of pampering instead, there are options for you as well. Stretch your dollar at Accents Nelson backpackers, Paradiso Backpackers, Mapua Leisure Park, and Tahuna Beach Holiday Park. For motel options try Bella Vista Motel Nelson and Saxton Lodge Motel, while popular hotels include Grand Mercure Nelson Monaco and Rutherford Hotel Nelson. Enjoy the B&B facilities at Oakdene Homestay B&B, or self-sufficiency at Villa 10 Waterfront Apartments. In Abel Tasman, Aquapackers, Eden’s Edge Lodge and Kaiteriteri Beach Lodge are all good backpacking choices, as is the Kaiteriteri Beach Motor Camp. If motels are more your thing, try Abel Tasman Lodge, Abel Tasman Motel Motueka and Equestrian Lodge Motels for a good night's sleep. Home comforts can be found at Bellbird Lodge and Rowan Cottage B&B, and for those looking for more than a touch of luxury, The Resurgence awaits. Budget accommodation is plentiful in Golden Bay; try Kiwiana Backpackers, Somerset House and The Innlet backpackers or Pohara Beach Top 10 Holiday Park. For motel lodgings try Anatoki Lodge Motel, while those chasing an inclusive breakfast should visit Sans Souci Inn and The Shady Rest B&Bs.

Local Knowledge

Nelson Airport is 15 minutes from town, with domestic flights to Wellington, Christchurch and Auckland. The nearest international airports are in Wellington and Christchurch. Travelling by road? Nelson is 5 hours, 30 minutes from Christchurch and 2 hours from Picton via Queen Charlotte Drive. Regular coach services run to and from the region, while Abel Tasman Sea Shuttle offers a convenient mode of transport into Abel Tasman National Park. For on-the-ground information visit Nelson i-SITE at 77 Trafalgar Street, Motueka i-SITE, 20 Wallace Street, or Golden Bay i-SITE on Willow Street.