New Zealand regions:
Northland
Northland’s history is rich and interesting. It is believed that the first Polynesian voyagers arrived in Northland during the 11th century.
The subtropical Northland experience promises a contrast between the relative sophistication of the east coast and the soulful simplicity of the west coast.
Northland is a gold, green and blue world of beaches, bays and subtropical pleasures. Go diving, fishing, hiking, swimming, surfing, mountain biking, sightseeing and more.
Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city. Half urban and half marine, it’s a cosmopolitan experience wrapped up in a fascinating water world that’s dotted with more than 50 islands.In just half an hour you can be almost anywhere - sailing to an island, trekking through a rainforest, picnicking on a volcano, sampling wines at a vineyard or wandering a wild, black sand surf beach.
Highlights include Great Barrier Island, Hibiscus Coast, Matakana Coast, Waiheke Island, Warkworth, North Shore, the Waitakere Ranges and North West wine district.
The Coromandel is rugged and mysterious, yet also a place to flop on a beach and watch the waves roll in. Uncover the history of this remarkable peninsula.
The Coromandel includes main centres Thames, Whitianga, Whangamata, Paeroa, Waihi, Pauauni and Tairua.
The sunny climate and beachy atmosphere of the Bay of Plenty make it a place to have fun. Laugh with the locals while you sample the easy-going lifestyle.
Main centres include Mt Maunganui, Tauranga, Te Puke and Whakatane.
The landscapes you'll encounter in the Waikato will stay with you for all time. Find pure serenity above ground and the most astounding adventures below.
Main centres include Hamilton, Cambridge, Waitomo, Matamata, Raglan and Te Aroha.
Rotorua is a region of fascinating geothermal activity. The seething power of inner earth comes to the surface in Rotorua. Explore the geothermal areas and discover the unique culture of New Zealand's Maori people.
Highlights include Mount Tarawera, Whakarewarewa Forest, Ohinemutu, and the many geothermal locations.
Nelson region is the sunniest in New Zealand and is home to more than 350 working artists and craftsman. It is also the gateway to three national parks including the Abel Tasman, with its inviting sandy beaches and where clear streams travel through the valleys to join the ocean.
Christchurch - the heart of the central South Island, Christchurch is the gateway to the splendor of the Southern Alps. New Zealand’s third largest city, it is home to some of the most beautiful gardens in New Zealand.
Marlborough - basking in year round sunshine providing perfect conditions for walking, mountain biking, sea kayaking and vineyard explorations.
Queenstown - one of the most impressive resort and adventure areas in New Zealand. Located on the South Island, Queenstown features some of the most thrilling natural adrenaline adventures that have made New Zealand renowned.
Fiordland - the power of the scenery simply takes your breath away. Milford Sound as been described as a Wonder of the World. As you journey by boat along the Sound you see waterfalls, and majestic landscapes rising out of each side of the Fiord. This is also a prime area for walks and where three of New Zealand’s ‘great walks’ are located.
Dunedin - this city’s dramatic hills surround a long and natural harbour. Settled by whalers, gold miners and migrants from Scotland and China, it is one of the best preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the Southern Hemisphere. Just a short drive away is the Otago Peninsula, home to rare and unusual coastal wildlife including the world’s only mainland albatross colony.
