Rotorua – Geysers & Maori Culture
As the focus of New Zealand’s geothermal activity, with its famous mud pools and spouting geysers, Rotorua has become one of the most visited places in the North Island, earning itself a reputation as a place not to be missed. The presence of a strong Maori culture is also part of the town’s appeal and there are several worthwhile attractions to visit. Located on the edge of Lake Rotorua and surrounded by forests, the strong smell of sulphur leaves no doubt that you have arrived in one of New Zealand’s most distinct town.
Taupo – Volcanoes and Hot Springs
Almost as if by design, Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake lies right in the centre of the North Island. The town of the same name is a popular holiday destination especially for fly fishing enthusiasts keen to sample the excellent trout fishing within the lake and is a good base from which to explore volcanic areas nearby. Taupo is also growing into one of New Zealand’s premier activity destinations, offering tandem skydiving, bungy-jumping, jet boating, white-water rafting, quad biking and of course, hiking.
Hamilton – Themed Gardens
The major attraction of Hamilton is its extensive garden complex that covers an area of 58 hectares and features a number of themed gardens – it is certainly not your average botanic garden experience. If you feel like exploring and relaxing simultaneously a cruise down the Waikato River in style aboard the MV Waipa Delta is also worth considering. Offering morning and afternoon teas, buffet lunches and dinner and cocktails, this is sightseeing in style.
Waitomo and the Waikato – Glow Worm Caves
Under the gentle rolling hills of the Waikato lies one of New Zealand’s hidden natural wonders, the extraordinary Waitomo Caves. This extensive labyrinth of gaping sink holes, vast underground chambers and mile upon mile of connecting passages provides an adventure playground for all sorts of adrenaline charged activities like abseiling and cave tubing. For those who prefer a little less action, the journey by boat through the glow worm cave is an unforgettable experience.
Central Plateau – Volcanoes and Deserts
For the most spectacular scenery within the region, visitor’s head for Tongariro National Park, which takes in the twin peaks of Tongariro and Ruapehu and is popular with hikers and skiers. Rust red craters, black deserts and cobalt blue and jade green lakes make these landscapes among the most colourful in New Zealand and feature on what is acknowledged as one of the finest one-day walks on earth, the acclaimed Tongariro Crossing.
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Northland