Do you prefer salty air and sandy toes or snowy peaks and forest floors? No matter what your preferences are over the summer holidays, somewhere in New Zealand fits the bill! Enjoy getting out and about and exploring your backyard in our beautiful country.
SALTY AIR & SANDY TOES
Discover New Zealand’s east coast.
A North Island hotspot, Coromandel boasts sandy beaches, native rainforests, and a jaw-dropping coastline. You'll want to practise your selfie smiles for this destination.
Cathedral Cove
Widely considered a must-see, this iconic rock archway is framed by lush native bush and white sandy beaches. The cove is situated in a marine reserve, and is accessible by foot, kayak, or boat.
Plan a visit if you love natural rock formations, clear water, and sandy picnic spots. The one-hour access route from Hahei offers an up close and personal view of the cove's coastline.
Hot Water Beach
When low tide hits, Hot Water Beach comes alive. Visitors descend upon the shoreline armed with shovels and swimwear to dig mineral-rich natural spa pools in the sand.
Below the beach are two fissures supplying hot water up to 64°C. Throw in a Pacific Ocean view bordered by Pohutukawa and this unique experience is well worth a visit.
Moeraki Boulders
Giant boulders line Koekohe Beach near Moeraki on the Otago coast. These concretions were formed around 60 million years ago in ancient sea floor sediments and are the result of coastal cliff erosion.
The largest boulders spent around 4 million years reaching their current size.
They can weigh several tonnes and span over 2 metres.
Oamaru
Situated on State Highway 1, Oamaru is anything but a road trip pit stop. Those who choose to stay and explore the town’s culture find themselves immersed in rich Victorian history and a vibrant local community of artisans.
Eateries, shopping, breweries, a thriving Blue Penguin colony, museums, trains, steampunk, and the famous Riverstone Castle combine to create a one-of-a-kind summer destination.
SNOWY PEAKS & FOREST FLOORS
The land of the long white cloud offers something for everyone. Exercise, explore, relax, reflect.
Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park
Nestled at the foot of the Southern Alps, Aoraki / Mount Cook Village is the heart of this national park. The park features glaciers, valleys, lakes, rivers, snow, and 19 peaks over 3,000 metres. All of this would keep you busy exploring for a few weeks, but if you only have a few days try this itinerary for a taste of the park’s offering.
Day 1
Gently ease into day one and enjoy the fresh alpine air as you read a page-turner by your favourite author.
Day 2
Listen to native bird calls while wandering through flat bushwalks or hiking an alpine pass.
Day 3
Catch a scenic helicopter flight over the stunning Tasman and Hooker Glaciers.
Day 4
Discover the park on an adrenaline-fuelled 4x4 wilderness tour. Be sure to pack a hearty picnic for a backcountry bite.
Day 5
Pack your tackle in the car and fish the nearby canals for escapees from the local salmon farm.
Huka Trails
Avid bike riders can be found touring this network of easy to intermediate-grade trails. Ride from Taupō township to the picturesque Huka Falls and Wairakei Tourist Park. Those seeking adventure can drop into Craters Mountain Bike Park at various points along the trail.
The Rotary Ride track is a local favourite. This intermediate grade 3 ride begins at Spa Thermal Park and ends at Huka Falls. Park a car at one end for a 5.5km one-way trip or double back for an 11km excursion. Bike hire is available, including e-bikes for busy visitors with weary legs.
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Take a serene boat ride through a glowworm grotto 30 million years in the making. The cave’s guides bring this natural attraction to life as they share the cave’s Māori legends and history. All the while thousands of glowworms radiate light from the cave walls and ceiling.
First photo by Tim Marshall on Unsplash
