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5 REASONS TO VISIT THE NORTH ISLAND
Stretching from the sparse, coastal Northlands to the lush pastural land in the south, New Zealand’s North Island is home to more places and experiences than anyone can fit into a single vacation. Why do you need to go? Here are our top 5 reasons (but seriously, there are sooo many more).
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1. You’ll find scenic beauty EVERYWHERE
If beautiful beaches and jaw-dropping coastlines are on your check list for visiting a destination, the North Island does not disappoint. How about deep blue inland lakes, thermal pools, rivers and waterfalls? You can check those off too! A spectacular subtropical micro-region of the North Island, The Bay of Islands is a must-see, filled with sheltered beaches and coves perfect for kayaking, sailing tours, biking and hiking. It’s more than enough reason to stay in Paihia and explore the surrounding historic towns of Russell and Kerikeri while you are there. Keep your camera charged, you are going to need it.
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2. There is a giant inland lake
Lake Taupo is another natural icon not to miss. Stretching 46km long (that’s 28 miles), fishing, boating and watersport enthusiasts flock to this inland paradise for year-round fun. You’ll also find plenty to do around the water’s edge with great golf courses, bars, restaurants and a lively calendar of events making Taupo one of the North Island’s top destinations to visit. On the southern shore of the lake, Turangi offers a more relaxed pace. With streams, rivers and gorges to explore, it’s the perfect outdoor playground for nature lovers.
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3. Experience Maori culture
Maori culture runs deep in many aspects of daily life in New Zealand. At the tip of the North Island at Cape Reinga, you can witness the meeting point of two oceans. Dubbed the ‘Place of Leaping’, Maori culture believes deceased spirits leap from the 800 year old Pohutukawa tree that stands here and into the ocean to return to their ancestral homeland of Hawaiki. If you’re in the Bay of Islands, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds is one of the most historically significant locations in the country. Step back in time in the museum, watch traditional Maori performances or test your skills paddling in a Maori canoe.
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4. Natural hot pools
Need we say more? It’s like a spa in the ground, and you’ll find them all over the North Island. The geothermal areas are arguably one of New Zealand’s most famous attractions. These natural wonders are a result of heat produced from the Earth’s mantle, warming the deep underground springs. Perhaps the most well-known is the North Island town of Rotorua, but if you are staying in Turangi, don’t miss the chance to visit the Tokaanu Thermal area for a soak to remember.
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5. The Hobbits live here
Guys, in case you didn’t already have enough reasons to visit the North Island – this is the homeland of the Hobbits! If you’re looking for the ideal day trip anywhere from your accommodation, it doesn’t get much better than a tour of Hobbiton (especially great if you find yourself in Tauranga or Mount Maunganui, as it is less than an hour’s drive inland from the coast). Soak in the picturesque views of the New Zealand countryside and imagine yourself in J.R.R. Tolkien’s world as you explore The Shire on the Lord of the Rings movie set.
Featured Resorts
The Bishop Selwyn
Bay Of Islands, North Island, New ZealandThe Bay of Islands is the finest maritime park in New Zealand, with 144 spectacular islands, and secluded bays. The region is home to an abundance of marine life, including marlin, whales, penguins, dolphins and sea birds. It is world famous for deep sea fishing and underwater scenery, the Hole in the Rock Cruise to Cape Brett Lighthouse, and the Cream Trip to Otehei Bay. Enjoy the picturesque town of Paihia, and the historic township of Russell; or travel south to see the magnificent kauri forests, Cape Reinga the top of New Zealand, Ninety Mile Beach and the orchards, historic homesteads and craft shops of Kerikeri.
Busby Manor
Bay Of Islands, North Island, New ZealandBusby Manor, in New Zealand's historic Bay of Islands, is on the foreshore of the picturesque seaside town of Paihia. The comfortable, fully self-contained motel-style rooms are a scenic five-minute walk along the gorgeous coastline to the heart of the town's tempting restaurants and coffee shops, quaint boutiques and craft shops, and marina complex.<br /><br />Sheltered sandy beaches are ideal for swimming and the grassy banks encourage relaxation. The fishing is excellent. Hire a mountain bike and discover the natural beauty of the ancient kauri forests, or swim with the dolphins. Unforgettable! Not far away, there are spectacular glow-worm caves and golf courses. Get fresh local produce at the farmer's market, wine from the cellar doors and boutique cheeses and chocolate from the makers on your way home from the oldest and second oldest houses in NZ. Returning to the resort laden with goodies, you'll probably be ready to relax by the pool with a good book and a cold drink, or simply lay back and soak up the ocean views.<br /><br />The geothermal hot pools are a definite 'must do' and Waitangi is more than just the site of the signing of the 1840 Treaty; it also has beautiful gardens and stunning views. Later on, relax in the guest lounge with a coffee and plan tomorrow's thrilling adventure.<br /><br />For a holiday that offers you a taste of everything, it's got to be Busby Manor.
Kaimanawa Lodge
Turangi, North Island, New ZealandYou'll find Kaimanawa Lodge in the town of Turangi at the southern end of Great Lake Taupo. The town is nestled in the bend of the mighty Tongariro River, bounded by the majestic mountains and the expansive lake. Moody. Powerful. Elemental. Breathtakingly beautiful! It is a place that eases itself into your soul and never leaves.<br /><br />Modern and comfortable, the resort is perfect for those wanting to make the most out of their New Zealand escape. During the winter months, the towering snow-capped mountains are a haven for winter sports and the air reverberates with the gentle whisper of skis on fresh fallen snow.<br /><br />In the warmer months, the mirror-like surface of the lake gets whipped into a frenzy of activity. There's everything from swimming, water skiing and paddle boarding to kayaking. While the adventurous can throw on a life vest and get an adrenaline hit with a little white-water rafting or jet boating in the nearby rivers. Brilliant fun! For those that prefer to keep their clothes on, there are plenty of bushwalks through spectacular countryside and, of course, you can always give trout fishing a go.<br /><br />A trip into Turangi is a must. It has a number of excellent restaurants serving fresh local cuisine, and cafés serve a mean espresso. A tour of a Turangi vineyard is a definite too. But whatever you do, make sure you take time to relax in one of the famous thermal pools. You'll feel the stress gently melt away. Exquisite! <br /><br />For a holiday with more, visit Kaimanawa Lodge.
Lakeside Villas
Taupo, North Island, New ZealandOn the shores of picturesque Lake Taupo, Lakeside Villas Apartments is just a ten-minute stroll from Taupo's town centre. Supremely comfortable units offer a wide range of configurations to suit all needs and feature fully-equipped kitchens, laundry facilities and patios with fabulous scenic views. There are enjoyable organised activities onsite, including tennis and mini-golf tournaments, and heaps of other activities for kids. Talk to the folks at our helpful Tour Desk. We'll be happy to organise trout-fishing trips, arrange discounted golf green fees, advise you about the best things to do around Lake Taupo - even make dinner bookings. You'll never run out of fantastic things to see and do. Take in a Maori Cultural performance. Experience some of the best trout fishing in the world. Try your hand at water-skiing or parasailing. Scuba dive, sky dive or try bungy jumping. Go white water rafting. Soak away your worries in thermal pools. Go tramping (that's Kiwi for hiking). There's great skiing nearby in winter. Visit Deerworld. Organise a hunting trip or charter a flight for an eagle's-eye view of the spectacular terrain. You'll be within short driving distance to many of New Zealand's top tourist locations like Rotorua, Hawkes Bay and Tongariro National Park. Taupo epitomises clean, green New Zealand at it's very best. Come to Lakeside Villas and find yourself perfectly positioned between clear lake waters and jaw-dropping scenery. Welcome to New Zealand's natural holiday paradise.
Club Paihia
Bay Of Islands, North Island, New ZealandClub Paihia is poised upon a leafy and scenic hillside on six-and-a-half acres of native North Island bushland. This is the ideal location for making the most of the awe-inspiring beauty of the magnificent Bay of Islands. Even at the busiest of times, the wealth of secluded coves and quiet island walks will have you feeling like you're the only ones enjoying the serenity of this seemingly endless maritime playground. After a day of exploration, make the most of excellent resort amenities that include three swimming pools, spa pools, barbeques, a gymnasium, tennis court, petanque, outdoor chess and bicycles. The Club even has its own private bushwalk, incorporating a magnificent orchid house. In the building housing the owners lounge, you will find the library, pool table and table tennis. Here, the booking kiosk will organise tours and help you make the very most of this aquatic wonderland. In the town of Paihia, you'll find everything from fine art to fine wine and a selection of world-class restaurants. Enjoy a little recreational boating and then, having got your sea legs, tackle up for an unforgettable deep-sea charter in the game-fish-rich waters of the Bay. Visit fascinating historic sites. Revitalise and recharge on one of the many unspoiled beaches. Play a round of golf on world-class local courses. Have a tramp along the Northland's most spectacular bushwalks. Watch the whales. Swim with the dolphins. Dive the Rainbow Warrior. Discover a holiday you'll treasure for years - at Club Paihia.
Oaks Auckland Harbour Suites - RENTAL ONLY
Auckland, North Island, New ZealandOaks Auckland Harbour is perfectly situated in the heart of Auckland city, a short walk from beautiful waterfront dining options, fantastic shopping and Auckland's public transport hub, Britomart. <br /><br />Well equipped with an onsite gymnasium, outdoor heated pool, full kitchens, Wi-Fi and laundry facilities, this self-serviced accommodation is hard to beat, for business and leisure travellers alike. Auckland is the cosmopolitan centre of New Zealand, boasting world-class shopping and dining options, immersive culture attractions, and you can't miss a day trip to Waiheke Island where beautiful scenery and fabulous vineyards await. <br /><br />Book your New Zealand adventure in a Studio, 1 Bedroom or 2 Bedroom apartment at Oaks Auckland Harbour and experience everything this diverse city has to offer.
Sun Pacific Villas
Mt Maunganui/Tauranga, North Island, New ZealandSun Pacific Villas is located in Mount Maunganui, a beautiful coastal town on New Zealand's spectacular Bay of Plenty. The area's gorgeous temperate climate makes the town a popular destination for both fun- and sun-seekers year 'round. Lush rainforest and sub-tropical farmland blend seamlessly with golden sand beaches and the clear blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. Beautiful! The modern, fully-equipped accommodations sit on one of New Zealand's most popular surf beaches and have amazing ocean views. Relax by the heated swimming pool or get into the 'zone' on the tennis court. Mount Maunganui is also the name of the extinct volcano that dominants the town and surrounding landscape. A climb to the summit offers breathtaking views. It's well worth the effort, especially if you're planning on sampling the delicious local cuisine. You can enjoy a spot of deep-sea fishing, diving and all the water sports you can shake a paddle at. The nearby rivers play host to white-water rafting and adrenaline-pumping heart-in-mouth jet boat rides. There are also plenty of shopping opportunities, great restaurants and exquisite cafes to tempt you to stop and stay a while; and stay a while you must as the local seafood is sensational. Or try digging for Tua Tua, the local shellfish! It's an easy drive to the geothermal wonderland at Rotorua where the hot pools are magnificent. Whatever you're into, Sun Pacific Villas is the place for a naturally relaxing holiday.