Created in 1954, Te Urewera National Park is the fourth largest of New Zealand’s national parks and the Tuhoe peoples ancestral home. The park has a long and complex history that dates back to the Treaty of Waitangi of 1840. The ownership of the land by the Crown has been much disputed over the years and will likely be for years to come.

Some 2200 years ago, a landslide blocked the great Waikaretaheke River and created Lake Waikaremoana. Resembling a fiord, the lake, the deepest lake on North Island, has depths of up to 250 meters. Around the perimeter of the lake is the Lake Waikaremoana walking track, which has the distinction of being one of the Great Walks of New Zealand. The track has hiker huts along the way that can be booked by trekkers in advance. In addition to this walk, there are several other walks within the park.

Te Urewera National Park provides protection to the largest remaining area of virgin native forest on the North Island. Mountain and silver beech grow on the ridges and kamahi, rata, red beech, and tawa grow at the lower levels. This incredible diverse native bush supports most of the birds native to New Zealand, including the bush parrot, yellow-crowned parakeet, blue duck, New Zealand falcon, and the North Island Kiwi. A program to control possums has been initiated to ensure that the native species survive.

Aside from the spectacular scenery, the jewels of the park are diverse Lake Waikaremoana and beautiful Lake Waikareiti. Lake Waikareiti is the location of Rahui, an inlet that hosts one of the extremely rare occurrences of a lake within a lake.

Fishing, hunting, and boating are all activities that are allowed within Te Urewera National Park. Deer and pigs have been introduced for hunting purposes however you need to plan ahead and get a permit. Fishing permits are also required but can be bought in the park. With Lake Waikaremoana teeming with rainbow and brown trout for the avid fisherman, it is well worth the trip just to fish. You can rent rowboats and kayaks to explore the lake. The use of jet skis is strictly prohibited so don’t bother loading yours up for your getaway.

Walking the trails is a popular pastime in the park. With many of the walks being a day or longer, there are hiker huts scattered throughout the trails in the park. Don’t forget to book one in advance.

Te Urewera National Park is a park to put on your “must see” list for your visit to New Zealand.

Given to the state by a prominent Maori chief in 1887 in exchange for the land becoming protected, the formation of Tongariro National Park began. The establishment of this National Park was the first one in New Zealand and has the distinction of being the fourth world wide. So well known is this treasured park that it was used as one of the locations in Lord of the Flies.

This park is historically important to the Maori culture and also has great spiritual importance to them. One of only 25 locations in the world that are designated by UNESCO as mixed World Heritage sites, with the cultural significance of this land to the Maori and the importance of the volcanic activity being recognized.

The three volcanoes, Tongariro, Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe, are not only geologically important but the summits are sacred to the indigenous people of New Zealand. Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu are among the world’s most active composite volcanoes with the most recent activity being the 1996 eruption of Ruapehu. These majestic volcanoes rise from the earth to tower over the land below creating an incredible view as you approach them.

This harsh environment is home to the only mammals native to New Zealand, the long and short tailed bats; as well as many types birds and insects. Among the birds that reside here are rare and vulnerable native species like New Zealand Kakas, North Island Brown Kiwis, and the Blue Duck. The soil is a poor quality and the volcanic activity has prevented many trees from establishing a firm foothold in the area. That said, there are gorgeous pockets of protected podocarp that have survived over the decades.

Tongariro National Park has excellent walking tracks, two of the largest ski fields in New Zealand, rock climbing, and all season mountaineering. The walking tracks take you across rugged volcanic terrain on trails that let you drink in the park’s stunning vistas. The trails take from one day to five or six days to complete. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing walk has been declared by National Geographic to be on of the best ten one-day walks in the world.

On the North Island, the Rotorua region is a fascinating place to explore. This area has so many activities to participate in, it is difficult to know what to do first.

The odor of sulphur lingering in the air is a constant reminder that the area is alive with thermal activity. Thermal springs, mud pools, geysers, and steam vents attract visitors in throngs. People recognized the therapeutic properties of the thermal springs as far back as the 1800. Spas abound and visitors should definitely avail themselves of the healing qualities while they are in town.

Everyone that comes to Rotorua must experience the thermal springs. One of the best places to see the activity is Kuirau Park. This park has walking trails leading to areas of activity. There are mud pools that are scalding hot, steam vents that open with no warning, and crater lakes that are too hot to swim in. Tendrils of steam often shroud the park giving it an ethereal quality.

Starting out as a trout sanctuary, Paradise Valley Springs is a privately owned park that has transformed into a great animal and bird park. Pools of brown and rainbow trout, a pride of lions, deer, ducks, sheep, and a variety of other animals make their presence known. In addition to the untouched native bush, animals, and birds; this little piece of paradise bottles and sells water from its onsite spring. The cold refreshing water is us pure enough to drink straight from the spring and is used in their coffee shop and trout ponds as well as the bottling plant.

While in Rotorau, you simply must explore the Maori culture with a visit to Te Puia. The story telling, Maori village, the Pohutu Geyser, and cultural shows will keep you spellbound. Your guides will enchant you with their warm personalities and their ability to draw you into their world. No trip to New Zealand is complete without some exposure to the native culture since it has such an extensive influence on every aspect of life on these islands.

Whakarewarewa Forest with its stand of magnificent California redwoods is a terrific place to pass the day quietly. Although it is ironic that Americans come here to see the redwoods, the first of these trees were planted in 1901 in an attempt to recreate the forests that existed before the 1886 eruption of Mt. Tarwawera destroyed the forests. Redwoods were deemed to be the most suitable to grow quickly enough in this area. The trees were later dedicated as a memorial to members of the Forest Service that were killed in WW1. Walkways throughout the park allow people to bike, ride horses, and walk through the forest enjoying the scenery and views.

This city has many interesting activities and you won’t regret your visit here. The diversity ensures that there is something for everyone in the family and your visit will be one to remember.

The North Island has some of the best surfing spots in New Zealand. Water temperatures off North Island are much warmer than off of South Island. In the summer, no wetsuit is needed however, if you are surfing for extended periods, wearing a springsuit is a good idea. Wetsuits are a must in the chilly waters of winter.

Each coast of the North Island has its own unique characteristics that identify the nature of your surfing experience. Simply put, the West Coast has wild, rough, and powerful surf while the East Coast has calmer and “prettier” water.

Gisbourne is a surfing mecca on the East Coast that has long been a magnet for surfers, local and international. As the first area in the world to see the sun rise, dawn surfing is a wildly popular activity here. Waikanae Beach is a popular beach and great for the novice surfer to become familiar with the board skills they’ll need when tackling more demanding surf. Waves here are slower, gentler, and less steep than other locations in the area. For those that have yet to master snapping to their feet, the waves at this beach provide the perfect opportunity to practice.

A surfer’s paradise can be found a scant 6km from Gisbourne. Wainui Beach with its stunning beach and great waves all year round is a world class surfing destination. There are several areas to surf here making it a great place for surfers of all levels. One of the most popular areas to surf is the StockRoute with its left and right hand breaks spawning waves that are hollow and run fast. Near the surf club, another area that enjoys popularity with surfers known as the Pines. The waves are usually hollow with a height of up to 8 feet.

Just a couple of kilometers up the coast from Wainui Beach is Makorori Point. The long gentle waves make for a great ride for the intermediate surfer. As with the other beaches, there are several areas to surf so every level of surfer is able to find breaks that suit their skill.

In addition to these beaches, the coast around Gisbourne has other great beaches to surf. Main Beach with its Pipeline and Anaura Bay noted for its small, gentle waves are just two more beaches around Gisbourne for you to explore.

New Zealand has some incredible surfing areas and the North Island offers up some of the best areas in the world. The waters off of North Island seldom require you to wear a wetsuit in the summer but it is a necessity in the winter as water temperatures drop.

The West Coast is home to Raglan, a small costal town that is renowned for its great surf. One of the most striking features of this area its black volcanic sand beaches. Combine these stunning beaches with terrific breaks and you get terrific experience.

The area around Raglan offers a number of places to ride the waves. If you want to spend your vacation surfing and not driving to different beaches, this is an area to consider. If there are people with you that don’t surf, there are plenty of activities for them as well.

A short distance from Raglan is a series of breaks that provide some diverse surfing. From the beginner to the expert, every surfer will find a area to surf that will thrill and amaze you.

Beginners are well advised to take lessons and then head to Ngaranui Beach, which is about 4 km from the town. The sandy bottom and gentle surf provides forgiveness when your board skills aren’t very well honed. Although the surf won’t challenge more skilled surfers, it will challenge novice surfers.

Expert surfers will immediately make for Manu Bay, also called The Point. Very popular with surfers, the surf here is world class and conquering it sends you on an exhilarating adrenaline high. The left break gives long, consistent waves. Imagine catching the optimum wave and riding it for 10 minutes or so. This is a rocky area so only experts should attempt it.

Whale Bay with its rocky shore and green surf provides some terrific surfing. Further along the coast about 35km, Ruapuke Beach offers incredible surfing. It is a given that if Manu Bay is running flat, Ruapuke Beach will have great waves.

No matter what your skill level, the Raglan area has surf that will meet your skill level and exceed your expectations. Head to Raglan on your next surfing vacation and you will be back again and again.

Few activities can compare to being able to swim and interact with affectionate, playful dolphins. There are a few places on New Zealand’s North Island that offer this unique experience. Paihia, Tauranga, and Whakatane are three such places. Each town is a magnet for those seeking the excitement of swimming with wild dolphins and a number of other outdoor activities.

There are a few Department of Conservation licenced tour operators that offer a half-day excursion of dolphin viewing and swimming. These operators have boats built specifically for the purpose of dolphin watching and swimming. You are offered an informative commentary during the tour and you will undoubtedly see other marine life. If you have chosen to swim with the dolphins, you will be carefully advised as to the proper way to interact with these intelligent mammals. Department of Conservation rules apply and there will be times when swimming cannot safely be permitted.

Paihia:

Located at the north end of New Zealand, the pretty town of Paihia sits on the coastline of the breathtaking Bay of Islands. Zane Gray popularized this deep-sea fishing in this area in the 1930s and tourists began arriving for the fishing. Now Paihia is one of the most popular destinations for tourists that want to experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing, surfing, sailing, and swimming with dolphins.

Bay of Islands with its 144 islands and extremely rich marine life offers many activities and the opportunity to see whales, seals, marine birds, and dolphins. There are activities for the whole family to enjoy but the dolphin swims top the list.

Tauranga:

Further south down the coast from Piahia are the coastal settlements of Tauranga city and the town of Whakatane. Just over an hour apart along the coast of Bay of Plenty, Tauranga is the more northerly location and is the destination of choice for many surfers and dolphin swimmers. Surrounded by orchards and vineyards, this picturesque city is close to Lake Taupo and Rotorau. The proximity to these major tourism areas adds to the appeal of the city.

The Bay of Plenty is inhabited by thousands of dolphins so it is unlikely that a dolphin expedition will fail to make contact. Provided the conditions are right, swimming with the dolphins is something that you will be able to experience.

Whakatane:

Considered to be New Zealand’s Sunshine Capital, Whakatane is just 48 km south of New Zealand’s most active volcano, White Island. Aside from the wildly popular swimming with the dolphins tours; activities such as bushwalking, whale watching, chartered fishing cruises, hunting, and scuba diving tours are steadily drawing increasing numbers of tourists.

As with any adventure of this type, the weather conditions are a key factor as to whether the boat can safely go out on the water and there is no guarantee that a sighting will occur. When swimming with any wild creature, there is there is an inherent risk of injury. Wild creatures are unpredictable although careful instruction is given to swimmers in order to keep them as safe as possible. If you are an adventurous soul, prepare to get the ultimate thrill and have a very personal experience with wild dolphins.

Always make sure that the tour offering swimming with the dolphins is licenced and ask if equipment such as snorkels and wetsuits are included. Check to see what age restrictions may be in place so that you are not disappointed upon arrival because a member of your party is too young. Ask whether swim bars are available for the less proficient swimmers.

Once you have done your research and booked your tour, prepare to experience one of the most memorable times to occur in your life.

We all know that traveling, especially with a family, is an expensive undertaking. Although most places have things to see that are inexpensive or free, we often find out about them once we are there and they don’t fit into our crammed schedule. New Zealand is no different.

One of the great things about New Zealand is the spectacular scenery. No matter where you go, you will encounter breathtaking views. Why not spend a few days taking in the sights without any cost of admission? Both South Island and North Island have panoramic vistas to drink in but, in my view, a drive along the Tutukaka Coast is one of the best.

Driving down the scenic Tutukaka Coast not only gives you amazing scenery but it will take you to places that will enthrall you.

Just a few kilometers from Whangarei, the magnificent Whangarei Falls are a bit off the beaten track but easily found. All you have to do is follow the signs and pack a picnic lunch. This 26-meter drop in the Hatea River is worth spending time at. Walk the bridge that overlooks the falls or walk down to the bottom, either choice will give you unparalleled views.

As you drive further toward the coast, near Glenbervie, you will see great examples of dry-stone walls on both sides of the road. These walls have stood the test of time and are constructed without mortar.

Continue further and you will reach Tutukaka. Although this activity is not free, you really should go and snorkel or dive at Poor Knights Island. As an alternative, you can wait to snorkel until you reach Matapouri Bay. The beautiful sand beach will beckon to you to warm your feet on it. If the tide is low while you are there, you can also experience the wonders of the Matapouri Pools.

Whale Bay is just a stone’s throw from Matapouri Bay and is a surfing mecca. The surfer in you will surely clamor to get out and play once you see the waves break and curl.

If you follow the road inland to Hikurangi, you will again be on SH1 heading back to Whangarei. I’m sure you’ll agree that the day was worth it as you linger over your dinner and head for your room.

Auckland: A sea lovers paradise
On New Zealand’s North Island, Auckland, a thriving metropolis set in the midst of spectacular bays and inlets. Nicknamed The City of Sails, it is hardly surprising that Auckland’s most notable activities are water related such as dinner cruises around the harbor, swims with dolphins and dolphin spotting.

Transportation: get from here to there
Auckland is home to the major international airport in New Zealand. This means that Auckland is directly accessible from Europe, Asia, Australia and the US. There are also domestic routes to Auckland from South island.

The recommended modes of transportation with the city are bicycle or taxicab. Rail and bus services are available to other areas of the island.

Weather
Summer runs from November to April because New Zealand is located in the southern hemisphere. Temperatures in the summer average around 20°C and the winter temperatures are very mild, above freezing.

Accommodation: Budget to luxury accommodations
The best and most reliable source of information on accommodations is the Internet. Selection, cost, availability, location and amenities for accommodations can be obtained through the Accommodations link on the city of Auckland’s website.

Events and Attractions
All year there are events; like sports, music and festivals; being held in the city and there are a myriad of attractions to see. No matter when you visit, there is bound to be something happening in or around Auckland. Just check the city’s website.

The diverse culture of New Zealand is steeped in the history and culture of the indigenous Maori. Legend has it that, more than 1000 years ago, the Maori came to New Zealand from Hawaiki, their ancestrial home, in open boats similar to the traditional crafts that some still use.

Two main islands and several small islands off the southwest coast of Australia is the isolated island country of New Zealand. Across the Tasman Sea lies Australia and Tonga and Fiji are to the north. New Zealand occupies an area of 268670 square kilometers. The area is a bit less landmass than is occupied by Japan and slightly more than the UK. New Zealand has substantial marine resources and is the fifth largest EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone) on the Earth. This means New Zealand can lay claim to more than over four million square kilometers, more than fifteen times its landmass, for their exclusive “exploration and use of marine resources”.

New Zealand’s temperate climate means that temperatures seldom go higher than 30°C (86°F) or drop lower 0°C (32°F). Wet, cold, and mountainous; South Island is the largest of the two islands and the Southern Alps, running length wise through the island, divides the east side of the island from the west side. In contrast, North Island is dry, continental and pocked by volcanoes. An active volcano, Mount Ruapehu, is the highest mountain on North Island at 9,176 feet. The popularity of the island landscape soared in popularity after the Lord of the Rings trilogy was shot there.

New Zealand has total population of over four million people with the Maori making up the largest minority. Other significant minority populations are composed of Asians and Polynesians (non-Maori), most visibly in urban areas. Although Elizabeth II is a figurehead, she holds the title of the Queen of New Zealand. The office of New Zealand’s Prime Minister holds the true political power in the elected Parliament.

The government has been remodeling the economy ever since 1984 so that it is more of an industrialized free market and far less dependent on the British market. In order for that model to work, there must be significant agricultural exports. Leading in this area are meat/dairy/forest products, vegetables and fruit, wool, and fish.

Many other cultures have had a significant influence on the culture in New Zealand. The heaviest influences come from the Irish, British and Maori. Polynesians gravitated to this landmass in 1000AD and established the indigenous population of Maori. Scottish settlers have had an impact on the culture of New Zealand, to the extent that New Zealand now has more bagpipe bands than Scotland does.

The Kiwi is the national bird of the country and has been adopted as a nickname for New Zealanders. It is also often used as an adjective when referring to their culture.

New Zealand has many facets to be explored and relished. Book your visit now!

Although in the shadow of its neighbor, Australia, New Zealand is a world apart from anything you may experience elsewhere. A former British colony, with indigenous influences permeating the culture because of its proximity to the Polynesian islands and its Maori heritage, New Zealand offers some of the most diverse tourist experiences in the world. Year after year, the green rolling meadows; easily accessible geysers; guided glacier walks; and unending stretches of incredible beaches tempt many tourists to travel across oceans to soak up New Zealand’s natural beauty.

Discovered around 800AD by Kupe, the landmass known as New Zealand was one of the last to be settled. A steady influx of migration from the time of Captain James Cook has seen this island nation grow. The indigenous Maori are a minority but have had a tremendous enriching influence on life in New Zealand.

New Zealand is divided into two main islands, North Island and South Island. The season and destination will dictate what wonders you are exposed to. Both islands offer all manner of extreme sports, including the New Zealand invention – bungee jumping.

South Island is renowned for the relics from the last Ice Age; the Fox and Franz Joseph Glaciers that rise to just below majestic Mount Cook, the tallest peak in the Southern Alps. These valley glaciers are unique in that, when the world’s glaciers are retreating, these continue to flow. Moving steadily toward sea level, these spectacular glaciers flow at a rate that is about ten times faster than other valley glaciers. Winter in the Southern Alps provides an excellent opportunity to participate in skiing, filmmaking and mountaineering. Some scenes filmed for The Chronicles of Narnia were shot here. South Island’s Otago Peninsula lets you experience cozy accommodations in the midst of seal, sea lion, penguin and sea elephant habitat.

North Island has a milder climate and a warmer summer than South Island. A trip to the legendary Lake Taupo, a 660 square meter lake formed by a volcanic explosion, will fill you with awe. Black water rafting, or cave rafting, as it is sometimes known as, is popular on the west coast. A black water rafting experience, especially a tour through the Ruakuri Cave, will give you an adrenaline rush that you will always remember. If you are not seeking that much of an adventure, make your way to Ninety Mile Beach located at the far north end of North Island. The origin of its name is not known but the beach takes in 55 breathtaking miles of coastline, including the stunning northern dunes. To the east, Great Barrier Island offers a unique and wondrous underwater world for scuba divers to explore. It also gives you the opportunity to bask in the Kaitoke hot springs, commune with nature in the Glenfern Sanctuary, or just take in the sensational sight of Mount Hobson rising majestically above this barrier island.

A four-season destination, New Zealand is filled with enough activities and city life to whet your appetite for more. Wellington, Queenstown and Auckland all appeal to the spirited, youthful and adventurous tourists. The culture and spirit of New Zealand surrounds you even in the urban areas. Is New Zealand worth visiting? The only answer is a resounding YES!