1. Ross
Nestled between the bustling town of Hokitika and the iconic Franz Josef Glacier, Ross is a small gold mining town full of charm and history. It’s the perfect place to stretch your legs while exploring the West Coast’s rugged beauty.
Things to do:
- Visit the Ross Goldfields Information & Heritage Centre, where you can try your hand at gold panning.
- Take a stroll around Lake Mahinapua, just a short drive north of Ross, where you can enjoy scenic walks and birdwatching.
- Explore the nearby Hokitika Gorge and its stunning turquoise waters.
Where to stay:
Ross Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park offers 4 Geodesic Glamping Domes and 11 quirky pods, perfect for those seeking a blend of comfort and sophistication. Situated right on the shoreline of the Tasman Sea, it’s an ideal spot for stargazing and falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves. The holiday park’s location makes it a perfect stopover where you can unwind before continuing your adventure toward the glaciers or back up to the stunning Punakaiki Pancake Rocks.
2. Roxburgh
As you journey through the heart of Central Otago, make a pit stop in Roxburgh, which is famous for its delicious stone fruits and stunning landscapes. This hidden gem is a great example of off the beaten track in NZ, offering a more relaxed and authentic experience away from the usual tourist spots.
Things to do:
- Enjoy the beautiful Clutha Gold Cycle Trail, which follows the Clutha River and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Stop by one of the many fruit orchards for fresh, seasonal fruit.
- For a quirky experience, visit the Roxburgh Hydro Dam, a reminder of the town's history in New Zealand's energy development.
Where to stay:
Located over the bridge of the Clutha River and near the Clutha Gold Trail, the Roxburgh Clutha Gold TOP 10 Holiday Park is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The holiday park boasts a big playground, swimming pool, trampoline, climbing wall, and even a petting farm. As you make your way to or from Queenstown, the Roxburgh Clutha Gold TOP 10 Holiday Park offers a tranquil retreat and a great way to break up your trip.
3. Ōrere Point
Tucked away on the east coast of the Firth of Thames, Ōrere Point is your ideal entry point to the stunning Coromandel Peninsula.
Things to do:
- Spend the day at Ōrere Point Beach, where you can swim, fish, and enjoy the serene coastal views.
- Explore the nearby Tapapakanga Regional Park, perfect for picnics, birdwatching, and coastal walks.
- If you’re a keen hiker, don’t miss the nearby Waharau Regional Park, offering trails with spectacular views of the Hunua Ranges.
Where to stay:
Orere Point TOP 10 Holiday Park serves as the perfect gateway to the Coromandel-Pacific Coast Highway. Located just an hour away from Auckland Airport, it's an ideal stopover for your first or last night in New Zealand. Its proximity to many tourist attractions, including the Coromandel and Auckland, makes it a convenient base for exploration. Whether you're just starting your Kiwi adventure or wrapping it up, this park offers a comfortable and strategically located resting point.
4. Kingston
At the southern tip of Lake Wakatipu, Kingston offers a tranquil alternative to the bustle of nearby Queenstown.
Things to do:
- Hop on the historic Kingston Flyer, a restored steam train offering scenic rides around the lake.
- Enjoy a walk or picnic along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, where you can take in stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Explore the nearby Te Anau and the entrance to the Fiordland National Park for those seeking adventure before heading to Milford Sound.
Where to stay:
Kingston TOP 10 Holiday Park offers a rustic charm that perfectly complements the surrounding natural beauty. With its unique log cabins, log kitchen, log BBQs, and pizza oven, it provides a cosy, alpine-like experience. After a day of exploring the lake or nearby mountains, you can unwind in the warm, wooden interiors, perhaps enjoying a homemade pizza under the stars. It's the ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat with a touch of outdoor living.
5. Himatangi Beach
Last but not least, Himatangi Beach, located between Palmerston North and Whanganui, is a hidden coastal retreat off the beaten track often overlooked by travellers. This small, relaxed community offers a peaceful stopover with a pristine beach stretching as far as the eye can see.
Things to do:
- Relax on the sprawling Himatangi Beach, perfect for beachcombing, swimming, or simply soaking up the sun.
- Enjoy the nearby Foxton Beach for more surf and sand.
- Discover the Manawatu Estuary, a haven for birdwatchers, offering a peaceful escape from the busier towns nearby.
Where to stay:
Himatangi Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park is a beach lover's paradise. With the beach right on its doorstep, this park offers the ultimate seaside holiday experience. It's not just about the sand and surf, though. The park's prime location puts you within easy reach of an impressive array of nearby amenities. Right next to the holiday park, you'll find a playground, skatepark, BMX track, and tennis court, perfect for family fun and outdoor activities.
As we wrap up our journey through the off beaten track in NZ, it’s clear that Aotearoa’s charm extends far beyond its famous attractions. Remember, sometimes the best memories are made in the places you least expect. So why not slow down, take the scenic route, and discover these hidden treasures?