When you visit New Zealand’s North Island, you will be amazed by just how much breath taking scenery there is to discover. Here are our top 5 North Island sightseeing activities you must not miss.
Ready your eyes for an unrivalled extravaganza, as the North Island of New Zealand rolls out the green carpet and gives your senses the royal treatment. You will be awed, you will be thrilled, you’ll be so enraptured by sweet aromas and full-bodied wines, that home will feel like another time entirely.
You’ll still be you, but relaxed, happy and stimulated. We know, we’re promising a lot, but New Zealand delivers all of the above and more – let’s tick off five things you must do during a spot of New Zealand sightseeing.
1.World class wine at Hawke’s Bay
You’ve arrived. North Island, New Zealand. You’re ready to tease your tastebuds with the pleasures of some world class New Zealand wine, in one of the country’s most renowned regions, Hawke’s Bay.
We’ll take you to one of Hawke’s Bay’s most famous wineries, Church Road. As well as getting the chance to taste some of their exceptional wines, you’ll be able to soak up the atmosphere of one of North Island’s oldest and best established award-winning wineries. Oh, and you’ll enjoy lunch in the stunning Tom McDonald Cellar at Church Road too.
2. Go white water rafting on the Kaituna River
Rotorua is another “must-see” on your tour of New Zealand’s North Island. Not only is it North Island’s most famous geothermal destination, it is definitely the centre of the island’s white-knuckle adrenaline activities.
With a free day in Rotorua, our guides can help you to arrange a gondola to the Rotorua skyline, a Polynesian spa day, zip lining though the forest or an amazing white water rafting adventure. It’s certainly the way to experience all the power and majesty of the river up close!
3. See the City of Sails from 180 metres up!
No trip to the North Island would be complete without exploring Tāmaki Makaurau or Auckland, the City of Sails. It’s the start of your North Island tour, so don’t miss the chance to explore this amazing and diverse city.
For amazing panoramic 360-degree views of the city and its two harbours, (and 50 volcanoes!) go up to the viewing level (that’s level 51…) 186 metres above the street to see up to 80km in all directions.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you could take a SkyWalk or even a SkyJump! Find out more about Sky Tower here.
4. Soak up Huka Falls
Stop off at Taupo to witness the awe-inspiring Huka Falls. You’ll hear it before you see it, as 220,000 litres of water per second crashes down an 11-metre drop into the Waikato River.
The gorge narrows to produce a fast-flowing, deafening white water river that thunders below a viewing bridge or platform. After that incredible experience, you’ll be ready for the tranquility of a charming but contemporary hotel in Taupo.
5. Learn more about Maori culture
Arriving in New Zealand, you can’t help but sense the deep connection its people have with the land around them, as Maori culture stands prominent in everything from naming to museums and cuisine.
You can learn more about Maori culture with a visit to Kohutapu Lodge on the shores of Lake Lake Aniwhenua in Murupara.
The lodge is owned by a local family, who will help you to understand more about Maori history and culture, as well as show you the difference tourism and their tribal heritage is making to the local area.
These are our 5 top North Island sightseeing activities that are not to be missed. And you don’t have to miss any of them, because you can experience all of them on all our North Island tours.
