The Canadian National Newspaper: New Zealand: The Charm of the North Island

New Zealand’s North Island is a treasure trove of varied attractions. Whether you’re young, old, adventurous or leisurely, the North Island has plenty to offer. If you are taking a vacation to this part of the country, you will need to stay at least a month in order to visit the most popular attractions. The best time to travel is between November to April, when New Zealand’s long summer days can be fully appreciated.

The northern most section of New Zealand’s North Island is referred to as the Northland. Here lies the Bay of Islands, undoubtedly one of New Zealand’s finest gems. Located on the east coast, the Bay of Islands was named by Captain Cook due to its vast array of surrounding Islands, this being one of the area’s main attractions.

Paihia is a small but popular town offering long sandy beaches, picturesque views, and local history. The area is renowned for dolphin cruises to the surrounding Islands. Alternately, you could take the local ferry to the neighbouring seaside town of Russell. KeriKeri, an equally accommodating destination for visitors, stands 25 km north of Paihia. If you’re looking for lunch whilst in KeriKeri, don’t miss Café Jerusalem to sample their Yassir’s Yummy Chocolate Cake dessert.

Driving further into the heart of the Northland you will come across a scenic route climbing the east coast towards Matauri Bay and a look-out point over to Cavalli Island. A spectacular cliffs-edge view will appear from nowhere. It is from here you make your descent to Matauri Bay. For such a secluded spot, it may surprise you this is a popular location. So popular in fact, that the beach has its own holiday park.

Now home to 1.3 million, Auckland is a multi-cultural city with a passion for the arts, a love of outdoor sports, and a devotion to sailing. The city itself holds many attractions, Auckland War Memorial Museum, the amenities of Sky Tower, and Viaduct harbour just to name a few.

Time spent in Auckland should be shared between sights in the city centre and day-trips on the local ferry service. Rangitoto, an inactive volcano, is a must whilst in Auckland. Just 30 minutes by ferry, this energetic half-a-day hike is rewarded with postcard views over to the city. Alternately, Waiheke Island -- Auckland’s most desirable get-a-way destination, is a small island occupying a population of just 8000. Waiheke’s trendy wine tours, ‘artsy’ atmosphere and easy to rent holiday homes makes it an excellent weekend break from city life.

A two hour drive from Auckland will take you into one of New Zealand’s best loved locations - the Coromandel Peninsula. Hahei, a small beachside village on the east coast, is an artists and writers paradise. Its charming hillside wineries, remote surroundings, and quaint nature provide the prefect destination for a weekend retreat. Yet be warned, the only convenience store shuts at 6.30 PM and the next major town, Whitianga, is a long drive!

Hahei’s main attraction is its much photographed Cathedral Cove. Only accessible by foot or boat, a 40 minute footpath will lead you through native New Zealand bush to the site. The grand archway of Cathedral Cove links Gemstone and Stingray Bay. Make the most of your time here and enjoy a picnic or snorkel once you reach this secluded spot.

Situated central North Island is the township of Rotorua, New Zealand’s tourist capitol. In fact, this popular destination is so abundant with visitors it’s been nicknamed Rotor-Vegas by its locals. Rotorua has been shaped by volcanism, and this is certainly its winning attraction. From the geothermal areas, sulphuric atmosphere, and rich Maori culture, it certainly doesn’t lack character.

The Wai-O-Tapu centre (20 minutes south of town), displays Rotorua’s most colourful assortment of geothermal activity. There is one sight at the Wai-O-Tapu centre more memorable and frequently photographed than any other - The Champagne Pool. Grey and orange rocks line a steaming pool of turquoise water, creating a remarkable and puzzling sight.

Adjacent to the Champagne Pool rests the Artist’s Palatte -- a diverse volcanic area displaying ever-changing colours. Next you will encounter New Zealand’s largest bubbling mud pools and the Lady Knox Geyser which erupts daily. And that’s not all, around every corner lurks steaming, hissing vents and lakes so fluorescent you could be fooled into thinking someone had poured water colours into them.

An easy 80km drive south from Rotorua leads you to Taupo. Also shaped by its volcanic past, Taupo’s main attraction - its lake - is a result of the largest volcanic eruption in 5000 years. Catering to all ages and interests, activities range from skydiving and bungee jumping, to fishing and shooting.

If you’re looking for an all-round family pleaser, Taupo Hot Springs could be your saviour. The centre offers public and private mineral hot-tubs, as well as a fun hydroslide to entertain the kids. Visit in the evening and you will be greeted with a truly calming atmosphere.

During the day you must visit Huka Falls. At this point, the winding Waikato River (normally 100 metres across), slims to just 15 metres. Previously untroubled, the Waikato River now picks up speed and hurtles 220,000 litres of water per second over an 11-meter drop! There are several lookout points around the area. Alternately, if you don’t mind getting wet you can ride the Huka Falls Jet boat down to the base of the falls.

Avid hikers will love Taupo for its many nature trails. Those eager for adventure can attempt the dormant volcano, Mount Tauhara. Taking just over an hour to reach the summit, you will be rewarded with superb views back across the lake. However, a word of caution, an ambiguous track, steep ascents, and a constant inability to locate the top can prove challenging.

An hour drive from Taupo lays the three volcanoes of The Tongariro National Park - Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe. Most popular for its ski fields and hiking trails, this area also offers rock climbing, white water rafting, trout fishing and mountain biking all year round.

From June to November, the 2797 metre tall Mount Ruapehu becomes New Zealand’s largest and most popular ski resort. This active volcano is home to two majestic ski areas, Whakapapa and Turoa. Mount Ruapehu also accommodates Whakapapa Village -- a great location if you want to stay close to the ski fields.

Whakapapa village is also alive-and-kicking in the summer months for passionate hikers and tourists exploring the area. As well as short walks such as the Taranaki Falls trail (2 hours), there is the Tongariro Crossing, 6 - 7 hours. Voted as one of New Zealand’s best day-walks, you will passes through emerald lakes, lava flows, and active volcanoes.

Wherever you are in North Island, you are never too far from another incredible holiday destination. Whether you fancy wine tasting in Waiheke, sky diving in Taupo, or uncovering the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua, you will be sure to find your haven in New Zealand’s North Island. There is, however, something that all visitors to New Zealand must have in common - a love for the outdoors.

Lydia was born in Essex, England in 1985. She studied Philosophy at Cardiff University with one year exchange at UCLA. After completing her third year in Los Angeles, Lydia decided to pursue her passion for travel by spending six months working as a tour leader in Egypt. Lydia is currently living in New Zealand before she embarks on her next adventure - a year in Australia.

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