The smallest of the two main islands that make up New Zealand, North Island is home to a rich variety of landscapes and highlights, from the sub-tropical beauty of Northland and the aquatic pleasures of the Bay of Islands, to the volcanic landscapes of White Island. Around the Bay of Plenty, Hawkes Bay and the Coromandel Peninsula you can find glorious beaches, unspoilt coastline and picturesque harbours, whilst the Waikato region is blessed with underground caverns and the Waitomo Caves. The landscapes around Rotorua, the heartland of the Maori culture, bubble with geothermal activity and sprouting geysers. City life is as eclectic as the natural diversity, from the bustling vibrancy of Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, and the charms of Wellington, its captivating capital, to the Art Deco style of Napier on the east coast. With culture and natural beauty in abundance, idyllic retreats and some of the finest vineyards in the southern hemisphere, North Island is a land of plenty.
Auckland
Nestling within the embrace of 3 stunning harbours and surrounded by a profusion of volcanic cones, rainforests and tranquil beaches, Auckland is one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities. A melting pot of Polynesian and Asian culture, it can boast numerous museums and galleries, abundant chic boutiques, some world renowned vineyards, exquisite restaurants and a bustling waterfront.
Waiheke Island
Waiheke Island offers the ideal setting to escape the bustle of Auckland. Reached by a 50 minute ferry or a 10 minute helicopter ride from Auckland Airport, the island is blessed with idyllic beaches and bays that has attracted a vibrant community of artists to its shores. Perfect for walking and water sports, its galleries and craft shops make this the ideal getaway retreat.
Coromandel
Just a 2 hour drive from Auckland lies some breathtaking coastal scenery. The Coromandel Peninsula is a walker’s paradise of white beaches, rugged coastlines and forested peaks that can offer a range of short coastal hikes, or multi-day treks. The Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve meanwhile presents visitors with a sensory experience that encompasses limestone cliffs, clear waters and an abundance of marine life.
Wautoma Glow-worm Caves
Since 1887 when the Wautoma Glow-worm Caves were first explored, people have been attracted to this fascinating network of limestone caves and grottos. The guided tour will take you through stunning underground scenery including the Cathedral with its perfect acoustics. The experience ends with a boat trip into the starry world of glow-worms, where you can marvel at Mother Natures light display as you glide silently through the glow-worm grotto. In Aranui Cave high chambers, magnificent limestone formations and pale brown, pink and white shades of the huge stalactites await you.
Bales’ Marketing Analyst, and resident Kiwi Jarrad Carroll, tells us of his favourite sights and sounds of New Zealand.
“New Zealand is a country of incredible beauty, with stunning landscapes and rare ecological and environmental treasures. Come down under and discover a land of towering glaciers, awesome volcanoes, spectacular geysers, geo-thermal treasures, majestic mountains and turquoise seas lapping enticing beaches.
New Zealand is comprised of two main islands (North & South) and Stewart Island at the tip of the south.
The North Island presents coastal living and mountain ranges within an hours drive which accommodates for all types of adventures. With its thermal wonders and volcanic plateau, the region surrounding Tongaririo National Park and Rotorua are full of fabulous volcanic sites and sulphuric features which are predominantly untouched and unique. The treasures of the South Island are legendary – from the immense glaciers of the Western Coast to the mountainous scenery of Mount Cook and Queenstown’s Remarkables – take advantage of the Adventure Capital of the World and try a bungy jump, shotover jet or even a sky dive!
A self-drive itinerary is one of the most popular ways to discover New Zealand, offering you the freedom to explore this wonderful country at your own pace. Whatever you decide, we recommend a visit to both the North and South Islands, which will allow you to fully appreciate the truly diverse characteristics that both islands have to offer.”
To tailor make your own New Zealand Tour adventure, call our specialists now on 08456 345 120.
About Bales Worldwide
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Bales Worldwide (formerly known as Bales Tours) is a family run independent tour operator established by George Bales in 1947. Bales have become more and more flexible over time, in order to truly meet your needs. Wherever you decide to travel and whenever you want to travel, whether it is in 14 months time or just 3 weeks away, Bales have 60 years of knowledge and expertise to give you a holiday of a lifetime. 