legends of the north

There’s more to Auckland than you might think – the region offers access to world-class luxury accommodation, award winning wineries, vibrant culture and unique experiences making it a hot spot for kiwis. The City of Sails sprawls over volcanic hills and around twin harbours, offering an exhilarating mix of natural wonders and urban adventures.

It is the largest Polynesian city in the world, and with over 180 different ethnic groups, Auckland has blossomed into a multi-cultural hub of culture and art making it a bustling, cosmopolitan and vibrant city.

If you’re looking for a peaceful beachside getaway, you can’t do much better than Omapere, or its twin resort Opononi, where relaxed living is the order of the day. The closest town to the entrance of Hokianga Harbour, Omapere has spectacular views over the bay and headlands. It offers a multitude of leisure and adventure options, including great swimming, fishing, and hiking. Browse the Omapere museum for a glimpse into the area’s rich history; take a water taxi from Opononi Wharf to the northern side of the harbour, where 150-metre sand dunes provide opportunities for sand boarding; or explore Waipoa Forest, home to giant ancient kauri trees.

Russell is a charming, elegant township located in New Zealand’s picturesque Bay of Islands. As one of the earliest European settlements in New Zealand, this small town is jam-packed with historical sites including the Catholic Mission ‘Pompallier’, New Zealand’s oldest surviving Roman Catholic building and the Christ Church, the walls of which still exhibit bullet holes from the Maori Wars. Today the village exudes charm with its excellent restaurants, superb galleries and quaint boutiques lining the now calm and tranquil waterfront.

A relaxed riverside settlement in the rural Makatana Coast area, Warkworth has a beguiling old-world charm. A wander through the centre of town will take you past many of its historical buildings – a throwback from its colonial past. Nature lovers should head to Parry Kauri Park, with its centuries-old kauri trees, or to Dome Forest, where you can hike to a hilltop with views that stretch as far as Auckland’s iconic Sky Tower. Nearby attractions include the beautiful wine country, with its excellent estates, quirky cafes, and craft studios, as well as Tawharanui Regional Park (known for its great swimming and surfing), and Goat Island Marine Reserve (for fantastic snorkelling off the beach).

Step into a unique landscape of utter beauty; a region offering authentic Maori cultural encounters, thrilling adventure, and bubbling mud pools.

Rotorua is known for showcasing our fascinating Maori culture, mud pools, shooting geysers, and natural hot springs as the seething power of inner earth comes to the surface. Boasting 18 incredible lakes, three major rivers, and the mighty Mount Tarawera; these treasured natural assets are all part of Rotorua’s allure.

The region is host to some incredible fishing locations with trophy trout to be had year round on the lakes, rivers and streams. Adventure is right around the corner on the Kaituna River, with White Water Rafting on the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall; or perhaps you are tempted by the soothing powers of the regions many natural hot springs. Whatever your inclination, you’ll be wishing you had more time!

Surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery at the foot of the majestic volcano, Mount Tarawera, lies the largest of the 18 magnificent lakes of the Rotorua region, Lake Tarawera. Spend your days mountain biking or horse riding amidst the lush, native and exotic trees of the gorgeous Whakarewarewa Forest, exploring the fascinating living Māori village of Ohinemutu, taking scenic boat cruises to discover ancient Maori cave drawings or relaxing at the secluded Hot Water beach, where geothermal springs warm the lake’s glistening waters. For an adventurous outdoor getaway in a spectacularly beautiful and peaceful natural environment, look no further than lovely Lake Tarawera,

Cambridge is a picturesque town in New Zealand's Waikato Region of the North Island. Fondly known as 'The Town of Trees and Champions' due to its lush green parks and tree-lined avenues, the town has an undeniable air of English gentility. Cambridge is known for its abundance of excellent antique shops and the equine industry, with local stud farms producing some of the world's best thoroughbreds. Regarding activities and attractions, visitors to Cambridge are spoiled for choice. Travellers can sample the local cuisine, ride a horse through the stunning countryside, explore the splendid parks and gardens, and visit the fascinating Cambridge Museum. The scenic waterways Waikato River and Lake Karapiro are perfect for swimming, rowing, kayaking, jet boating, skiing, cruising and fishing within minutes of the town centre.