Sampling Paihia on a Budget.

The Jewel of the Bay of Islands – Paihia is the point where you can explore land and sea, islands scattered haphazardly amidst the pacific. Paihia is full of a range of activities. Cruises to the ‘Hole in the Rock’, swimming with the dolphins, visiting historical landmarks like Waitangi, Russell and KeriKeri, or even takingContinue reading “Sampling Paihia on a Budget.”

Kororareka – Reviving New Zealand’s Colourful History.

Kororareka – the first permanent seaport and European settlement in New Zealand, lying far north of the North Island. Indigenous Maori enjoyed an ideal climate encouraging an abundance of fish, food and fertile soil. Early European explorers noted the prosperity of this small settlement. In the early 1800s, European and American ships anchored at theirContinue reading “Kororareka – Reviving New Zealand’s Colourful History.”

KeriKeri – The Town that Changed New Zealand’s Cultural Landscape?

Full of culture, history and stunning scenery, KeriKeri is a place centered around some of the most historical noteworthy buildings in New Zealand. Playing major roles in unifying and calming relations between European explorers and local Maori.  A Town Full of History. KeriKeri was once home to a fearsome Maori chief – Hongi Hika. AlthoughContinue reading “KeriKeri – The Town that Changed New Zealand’s Cultural Landscape?”

A Labyrinth of Land and Sea Life at Cape Brett.

A rocky cliff face protrudes above the Pacific Ocean, walking tracks submerges into a green forest arena. The watery depths offer marine adventures set out to discover a web of marine creatures. Traversing 16km or 8 hours of rugged native bush, steep cliffs regularly drop off to reveal sweeping coastal views along the rugged CapeContinue reading “A Labyrinth of Land and Sea Life at Cape Brett.”

The Sweeping Shores of 90-mile Beach.

A vast expanse of white sand stretching 55 miles long, reaching Ahipara Bay, located near Kaitaia. Te-Oneroa-a-Tohe, or better known as 90-mile beach curves slightly northeast, before traversing northwest along Aupouri Peninsula. Its final destination at Scott Point, about 10km south of Cape Reinga. One of the unique aspects of 90-mile beach is that itContinue reading “The Sweeping Shores of 90-mile Beach.”

Discover the Northernmost Point of the North Island.

Once an island formed by a marine volcano, ocean currents carrying sand to form a tombolo – a sandy isthmus connecting the island to the mainland, combining the headland and flat to formerly shape North Cape Peninsula.  Although Cape Reinga is traditionally looked upon as the northernmost point of the North Island, in fact itContinue reading “Discover the Northernmost Point of the North Island.”

Another World Opens up in the Catlins.

Nugget Point, Purakaunui Falls, Cathedral Caves and McLean Falls offer a spectacular escape from the busy city life to the captivating tranquility of the Catlins, named after a whaling captain, Edward Cattlin.  All of us at some point have experienced the wonder of nature. However, some places simply seem to define themselves as a wholeContinue reading “Another World Opens up in the Catlins.”

The Sanctuary of Ulva Island.

A pristine forested island, situated in the beautiful Rakiura National park, named after a Scottish island, an open island sanctuary. Ulva Island remains one of a few predator-free sanctuaries in NZ. A jewel to behold as you immerse amidst nature of its cleanest and finest. Meandering along the tracks to catch a glimpse of endangeredContinue reading “The Sanctuary of Ulva Island.”

The 8th Wonder of the World.

Are you ready to discover more about the 8th Wonder of the World? Rakiura National Park on Stewart Island is a world renowned sanctuary, making up 85% of the island’s 1570 square kilometers.  The Dark Sky Sanctuary International Association recognized the importance of Rakiura. In 2019 it was awarded accreditation for its outstanding sky quality.Continue reading “The 8th Wonder of the World.”

The World’s Largest Surviving Wooden Viaduct.

New Zealand has many things to offer for the adrenaline junkie. South Island in particular has some pretty spectacular attractions for those that want to test just how brave they really are. Percy Burn viaduct located in the far south of the South Island brings history and good ole kiwi ingenuity to the forefront ofContinue reading “The World’s Largest Surviving Wooden Viaduct.”