northern panorama

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.

Nestled along the shores of the spectacular Hokianga Harbour, Omapere and neighbouring Opononi offer a peaceful coastal escape surrounded by natural beauty and rich Māori heritage. With sweeping harbour views, golden beaches and a relaxed atmosphere, the area is perfect for swimming, fishing and scenic walks. Venture across the harbour to explore towering sand dunes and enjoy the thrill of sandboarding, or discover the ancient kauri giants of nearby Waipoua Forest, including the magnificent Tāne Mahuta. Steeped in history and framed by breathtaking landscapes, Omapere is a wonderful destination for those seeking tranquillity, adventure and a connection to Northland’s unique heritage.

The Bay of Islands is part of New Zealand’s North Island mainland and includes a cluster of 144 subtropical islands which are centred around the main hub of Paihia, Opua and Waitangi, the nation’s birthplace. The area is renowned as an adventure playground for watersports and ocean enthusiasts. Spend time exploring the archipelago by kayak or boat or snorkelling and scuba diving while viewing the mesmerising array of underwater life.

Across the water from Paihia is Russell, the first capital of New Zealand which is surrounded by history. Inland are the towns of Kerikeri, Kawakawa and Kaikohe where there are heaps of natural features, historical sites and great food to experience, not to mention the array of award-winning wineries to indulge in.

Situated just 67 kilometres north of Auckland, Matakana Village rests in the heart of the picturesque Matakana wine region in the Rodney District of New Zealand’s North Island. This charming little town is a food lover’s dream destination with an array of home-grown delicacies at the local farmer’s market, including artisan cheeses, homemade spreads, organic foods, craft beer, olive oils and award-winning wines. Surrounding the market lies a slew of specialist shops, beauty salons, bars, restaurants, cafes, art galleries and boutique cinemas. Those who explore further will discover beautiful east coast beaches, boutique vineyards, quaint fishing villages and regional parks dotted throughout the surrounding region.

Hahei is located on the Coromandel Peninsula on the northern shore of New Zealand’s North Island. This small village situated within Mercury Bay makes a fantastic holiday destination with its white sandy beaches, spectacular rock formations, geothermal springs and marine wildlife preserves to explore. There is much to see and do in Hahei, but key activities include the Cathedral Cove Walk (which passes beneath an enormous limestone arch), the Gemstone Bay Snorkel Trail, with descriptions of sea life attached to floating buoys to enhance your experience and swimming at Hot Water Beach, where two hot springs warm the ocean water.

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!

Set beneath the majestic Te Mata Peak, Havelock North is a charming village in the heart of Hawke’s Bay, renowned for its leafy streets, boutique shopping and exceptional food and wine. Surrounded by rolling vineyards, orchards and picturesque countryside, the village offers a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. Explore the region’s celebrated wineries and cellar doors, wander through the beautiful Keirunga Gardens or discover the thriving local arts scene. For breathtaking panoramic views, venture to the summit of Te Mata Peak, where scenic walking and cycling trails wind through spectacular landscapes overlooking the Heretaunga Plains. With its vibrant cafés, acclaimed restaurants and stunning natural surroundings, Havelock North is a delightful destination for food lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Resting in beautiful South Wairarapa, Martinborough is a small but charming village with a laid-back atmosphere and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. Spend your days exploring the lush green town square, admiring the old heritage buildings and indulging in the gorgeous boutique retail shopping. Packed with colonial charm, what was once an obscure farming village, Martinborough, is now a thriving wine region home to more than 20 vineyards, most within walking or cycling distance of the town's quaint main square. Visitors can taste their way around the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail, famous for its robust Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc. Don't forget to bring your appetite along, as many wineries are home to tempting cafes and restaurants that serve delectable cuisine made using fresh, local produce.

Located at the southern end of New Zealand’s North Island, the Lonely Planet names Wellington as “the coolest little capital in the world”.

As well as being a ‘cool little capital’ and the seat of government, Wellington is compact and easy to get around, locals often say you can walk anywhere in under 30 minutes. On most visitors list of places to visit is the National Museum, also known as Te Papa, meaning ‘our place’; one of the world’s best interactive museums. A ride on the city’s cable car takes you up the hill to Kelburn and the city’s botanical gardens, from here you can enjoy beautiful panoramic views over the city and across the sea.

Wellington is well known as the country’s culinary capital, home to some of the New Zealand’s best award-winning restaurants, great bars and some wonderfully quirky cafes, great food trucks, day and night markets. Almost everything about Wellington, the mix of history, culture and creative energy epitomise the diversity, colour and inclusiveness of this city surrounded by water and hills.

Stretching across the stunning coastline of the south-west side of New Zealand’s North Island, the Kapiti Coast is internationally renowned  for its bird and wildlife sanctuary, Kapiti Island, located only 5kms from the coast of Paraparaumu. The area boasts the lush, mountainous Tararua Forest Park as well as some wonderfully spacious and uncrowded beaches, popular with holidaymakers and fishing enthusiasts from the nearby capital city of Wellington. The coastline was formerly known as The Golden Coast and is home to the charming little towns of Te Horo, Waikanae, Paraparaumu, Raumati Beach and Raumati South. The Kapiti Coast is an ideal location for those seeking a peaceful retreat in a spectacularly scenic environment away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Rising majestically above Tongariro National Park, Mount Ruapehu is the North Island’s highest mountain and an active volcano, renowned for its dramatic landscapes, alpine scenery and spectacular crater lake. A year-round adventure destination, the region offers skiing and snowboarding in winter, alongside exceptional hiking, mountain biking and sightseeing throughout the warmer months. Discover the breathtaking Tongariro Alpine Crossing, enjoy world-class fly fishing in pristine rivers, or explore iconic filming locations from The Lord of the Rings, including the volcanic landscapes of Mordor and Mount Doom (Mount Ngāuruhoe). Surrounded by ancient native forests, cascading waterfalls and rugged volcanic terrain, Mount Ruapehu is an unforgettable destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Sandwiched between the magnificent Mt Egmont and some impressive black sand surfing beaches, New Plymouth’s favourable geographical setting provides a diverse range of outdoor adventure sports allowing residents and visitors the chance to snowboard, cycle, canoe and surf all in the same day! The city’s lovely little centre is strewn with stately colonial buildings, lovely boutiques, fascinating museums and quaint cafes. Aside from its world-class surf beaches, what really sets this city apart is the abundance of extensive parks and glorious gardens, the most established of which is Pukekura Park. This botanical wonder boasts two pretty lakes, a stunning waterfall and a remarkable fernery. 

Nestled in the heart of the Waikato Region, Cambridge is a charming town known for its leafy streets, beautiful gardens and relaxed country atmosphere. Affectionately known as the ‘Town of Trees and Champions’, Cambridge is celebrated for its equestrian heritage, boutique shopping and welcoming cafés. Nearby Lake Karāpiro and the Waikato River offer opportunities for kayaking, cycling and scenic walks, while the surrounding countryside is dotted with picturesque farmland and gardens. Ideally positioned for exploring the wider region, Cambridge is within easy reach of the magical Waitomo Glowworm Caves and the enchanting Hobbiton Movie Set, making it a wonderful base for discovering some of the North Island’s most iconic attractions.