Ōhope Beach TOP 10: Get a look into New Zealand's rich rail history and experience its natural beauty from the comfort of a rail cart with Awakeri Rail. Travel along at a leisurely 25km per hour with your chosen company and enjoy the rail cart that you are in complete control of – this means there’s plenty of time for photo opportunities on the way!
Taupō TOP 10: Only reachable by boat, hidden in Lake Taupō, you’ll find the huge Māori Rock Carvings in Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay. These carvings are the result of knowledge passed down from generation to generation and have become an iconic cultural attraction. With many tour options, you can pick between a sailboat, steamboat, kayak or even a jet-ski. This means, no matter your ability – you’ll be able to experience the beauty of these magnificent carvings.
Blue Lake TOP 10: Another great way to get up close to nature is by heading to Whakarewarewa Forest. Offering a range of recreational opportunities, there’s something for everyone to make sure they get to experience the magic of Whakarewarewa Forest. One of the best ways to see the forest is by mountain biking as you get to cover as much ground as you like. It is also one of the oldest mountain bike networks in the country – how cool is that?!
Cambridge TOP 10: Speaking of cycling, the Te Awa River Ride is one of the most scenic and accessible walking and cycling trails in Aotearoa! Taking you all the way from Ngāruawāhia, through Hamilton, Tamahere, Cambridge and finishing at Lake Karapiro, this multipurpose trail allows for a comfortable multi-day ride, or you can break it up into one awesome day trip. Experience lakes, rivers and waterfalls – you’ll get to see parts of the Waikato that you’ve never seen before.
Ohakune: Arguably one of New Zealand’s best day walks, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a must-do when visiting Ohakune. It may be a challenging journey, but it is also a very rewarding one. Hike across the active volcanic landscape, marvel over the emerald-coloured lakes and on a clear day you might even get to see Mount Taranaki. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is often faced with unpredictable weather and can be slippery and hazardous in parts, but if you can do it you will not regret it.
Waikanae Beach: Gisborne has an incredible coastline and there is no better way to experience it than by enjoying the Gisborne Railbike Adventure. Absolutely no balancing or steering is required, all you need to do is pedal and take in the spectacular east coast scenery. The tandem cycle takes you between Gisborne and Wairoa along the historic railway lines and unseen landscapes in Tairāwhiti.
Motutere Bay: For an exciting trek that you won’t forget, check out Korohe Horse Treks in Taupō. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a nervous beginner or an experienced rider, Korohe Horse Treks ensure that you are going to feel comfortable throughout the journey. Taking you through the scenic Enchanted Forest and Te Waimarino River, you’re going to love every minute of the horse trek!
Waitomo: In the Central North Island, you’ll find one of the most famous tourist attractions in the country – Hobbiton. Whether you’re a fan of Hobbits or not, the Hobbiton Movie Set is sure to be awe-inspiring. Set on lush pastures, Hobbiton is quirky, full of life and exciting at every turn. Join them for a guided movie tour, and make sure to end your day at The Green Dragon Inn to indulge in a feast fit for a Hobbit!