Highlights of New Zealand

The rental company will pick you up at the airport. You’ll go to pick up your car and sign the rental contract. Please keep the map and driving instructions that will be handed to you, you will need them to drop off your vehicle. The world-famous 'Garden City', Christchurch's well-established expansive parks and public gardens owe much to the planning and foresight of the city's founding fathers. The central city area and some eastern suburbs were heavily affected by the earthquake of February 2011 which led to the destruction of many of the original multi-story buildings, especially historic ones. But the rebuild of the CBD is now in full swing, it has brought with a new vibrancy to the ever-changing city as an influx of workers and the completion of new buildings carries on. The silver lining of the earthquake cloud has been the resilience of Christchurch residents and the innovation and creativity that has come out of rather dire circumstances. HIGHLIGHTS - HAGLEY PARK - This park has been at the heart of Christchurch since the 1850s and is today the most significant central city park. It offers a diverse range of entertainment and recreational facilities close to the city centre. It is renowned for its extensive area of 165 hectares (407 acres), its wide-open spaces and mature woodlands. The park is a major sporting and cultural focal point. - CATHEDRAL SQUARE - The central and unifying public space has been a landmark and a cultural magnet for over 150 years. The space provides the perfect backdrop for events, with open spaces, historic architecture and lots of through traffic. You can still see ruins from the Cathedral whose rebuild is on the cards. - CARDBOARD CATHEDRAL - Constructed from large cardboard beams as an interim cathedral while the original building is rebuilt. It sounds like a weird concept but the outcome is rather impressive.

Take the SH75 towards Akaroa. You take the same route for the outward journey as for the return except for the last kilometers. If the weather is suitable, we recommend the "Tourist Drive", a panoramic route with magical views overhead on Akaroa and the caldera, otherwise take the road via Duvauchelle, you will take the "Tourist Drive" on your return. BANKS PENINSULA is located 75 km south-east of Christchurch. Go to the end of the peninsula, to the village of Akaroa, you will certainly be surprised to read street names in French and probably to see the French flag fluttering there. This is explained by an attempt at French colonization in 1840, at that time more and more French whalers were sailing in the area. This peninsula was even bought from the Maori with a first payment, the balance having to be paid when taking possession of the territory. When the French expedition from Paris arrived in New Zealand, the British had already acquired sovereignty over the island through the Treaty of Waitangi. The French had to settle for two villages instead of the whole island, one of these being Akaroa and the other no longer exists. Thus, a certain number of New Zealanders living in the region are descendants of French settlers.  AKAROA, French village in the heart of New Zealand ... Sometimes it seems that time has stopped there.

Get to SH1 and drive south; at Winchester take SH72 to Geraldine where you take SH79 to Fairlie and SH8 to Tekapo. Since June 2012, Tekapo has been one of the rare World Heritage StarLight Reserves. HIGHLIGHTS MT JOHN OBSERVATORY - An asymmetrical rock shaped by the movement of ancient glaciers. The large mass of bedrock attains an altitude of 1031 metres above sea level, rising approximately 300 metres above Lake Tekapo below. On the summit of Mount John is the University of Canterbury's astronomical observatory. The mountain was chosen as the best observatory site in New Zealand because of its high number of clear nights throughout the year, the stability and transparency of the atmosphere and the uniquely dark skies in the Mackenzie Basin, devoid of city light pollution. It is internationally recognised as one of the best-situated observatories for viewing the southern night skies. For example, the Magellanic Clouds (satellite galaxies to our own Milky Way) can be seen continuously throughout the year. HOT POOLS - Nestled into the base of Mount John, overlooking Lake Tekapo and the mountains beyond is the Alpine Springs, Spa and Winter Park. Heated alpine water supplies four outdoor, large public hot pools and several private pools. A health spa, complete with massage facilities are a great way to lose stress. THE CHURCH OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD - Built in 1935 to the glory of God as a memorial to the pioneers of the Mackenzie Country. SCENIC FLIGHTS - Breath taking scenic flights around the Mt Cook (Aoraki) and Westland National Parks. The flights contain views of New Zealand's highest mountains, twelve major glaciers and 200km of alpine and rainforest scenery unique to New Zealand. MOUNT JOHN - 2h return trekking. Or you can go by car; the 360 degrees view won’t disappoint you.

At 3754 meters, Aoraki/Mount Cook is the highest peak of the country, where Sir Edmund Hillary made many expeditions. MT COOK WALKS 1. BLUE LAKES AND TASMAN GLACIER VIEW (40 min return) For great views of the lower Tasman Glacier and mountains at the valley head, walk from the Blue Lakes Shelter past the lakes to a viewpoint on the moraine wall. The Blue Lakes offer good swimming in summer and can be reached by making a side trip off the main track. 2. TASMAN GLACIER LAKE (1 hr return) This walk branches off the Tasman Glacier View Track just past the Blue Lakes Shelter and leads to a viewpoint of the glacier terminal lake and the source of the Tasman River. Icebergs can be seen floating in the lake in summer and in winter the lake freezes over. 3. HOOKER VALLEY (30 mins, 2½ hrs or 4 hrs return) The most popular walk in the area is the Hooker Valley walk. Starting at The Hermitage, the walk takes in the camping ground, the site of the original Hermitage, an Alpine Memorial, and two swing bridges until the final destination of the Terminal Lake at the bottom of the Hooker Glacier is reached. Approximately four hours return, it provides spectacular views of Aoraki Mount Cook. The walk can be reduced by approximately 1½ hours by starting at the camping ground. The Mueller Glacier lookout point is an easy 30 minute return walk from the camping ground. The walk to the first and second bridges has some steps, and is easy to moderate difficulty. There are toilets past the second swing bridge. 4. KEA POINT (1½ to 2 hrs return) If you don’t really feel like tramping today or if the weather is not nice enough, you'll find a museum showcasing the history of the Mount Cook region through transport, climbing, and pioneer extraordinaire Sir Edmund Hillary himself, located at Hermitage Hotel.

Head South on the SH8 to Cromwell, where you take SH6 on your right hand side to Queenstown. THE CLAY CLIFFS - These cliffs are a must-see, try to be there before midday to benefit from the best light. Before Omarama, you have to turn right in Quailburn Road and then left in Henburn road. A $5 fee has to be paid at the Hot Tubs Omarama after the visit, 25 Omarama Avenue (on your left hand side before the intersection). The Clay Cliffs are huge sharp pinnacles and ridges with deep, narrow ravines separating them. This sort of formation only develops with certain types of rock in arid or semi-arid areas that are also subjected to infrequent heavy rainstorms. This town is famous for its Merino clothing, it’s a great place to buy some warm layers. Originally born out of the Gold Rush during the 1860s, Queenstown is now the world capital for adrenaline and outdoor activities. HIGHLIGHTS STEAMSHIP TSS EARNSLAW - Take a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu. There is plenty of time to explore the decks and bridge, view the engine room, join a sing-along with the on board pianist or sit back and relax. SKYLINE COMPLEX - One of the first sights to captivate visitors to Queenstown. You access by scenic gondola, the best views in the region are found here spread out in a spectacular 220 degree panorama, with breath-taking views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables mountain range and across Lake Wakatipu to Cecil and Walter Peaks. It's truly magnificent and awe-inspiring! ONSEN HOT POOLS - These natural hot water pools are very intimate and have great views on the valley and the Shotover River. VIEWS - We recommend taking the road that leads to the Remarkables mountain range, this is a strategic spot to check out the view and take some great photos. FERG BURGER – Also known as the most famous gourmet burgers in the country, they are huge and very tasty. Just look for the queue of people outside their door wanting to order.

Take SH6 to Lumsden where you turn right towards Te Anau on SH94. HIGHLIGHTS THE WILDLIFE CENTRE - The ideal setting to learn about some of Fiordland’s wildlife. The centre offers the opportunity to view the rare flightless Takahē, now restricted to the tussock grasslands of the Murchison Mountains of Fiordland as well as native waterfowl, Weka, Parakeets, Tui, Kea, Kākā and wood pigeons. IVON WILSON PARK - 5 minute walk from the Department of Conservation Visitor Centre that follows the lake edge before crossing the road to the park entrance. Ivon Wilson Park is an open 35-hectare park-like landscape with both introduced and native trees with views of the Fiordland Mountains. A great place for families to visit with extensive plantings and many marked trails leading to the picturesque Lake Henry which is stocked with rainbow and brown trout as a children's fishery. Licences are available at the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre. DOCK & BROD BAY - a 30 minute walk beginning at the control gates, the start of the Kepler Track. This well-defined track follows the lakeshore passing through stands of attractive native forest. A pleasant bay with views across the lake to Te Anau. Swimming and picnic facilities available. Further on from Dock Bay, Brod Bay is another popular spot in summer for boaties and day walkers alike who enjoy its broad beach and picnic facilities. This is also the drop off point for track walkers who choose to cut out the first forest section of the Kepler Track. GLOW WORMS - a 2.5hr guided cruise across the lake from Te Anau in small groups. FIORDLAND ON FILM - “Ata Whenua – Shadowland” a stunning documentary showing the wonders of the Fiordland region. It is shown all day long and is the pride of the locals. SCENIC FLIGHT - an excellent way to discover Doubtful Sound, less famous than Milford Sound but 10 times longer and 3 times wider.

Take SH94 until the end. Milford Road is the most iconic road in NZ. Milford Sound Cruise : Milford Sound is quite simply unparalleled to anything in this world. The awesome cruise on the fiord includes countless waterfalls tumbling hundreds of metres down sheer cliffs, mountains rising straight out of the sea, fur seals and (usually) dolphins. A 'Sound' is a flooded river valley, but these are flooded glacial valleys with sheer sided walls that plunge hundreds of metres under water as well as above - so they are misnamed. Don't forget the insect repellent as the sand-flies in Milford are not only a menace, but practically man-eating! Plus a rain coat - the area receives 12,000mm of rain per year per square metre - so chances are high that you will see rain!Other departures are possible. Bring waterproof jacket, warm clothing and insect repellent. The Milford Sound main car park next to the boarding terminal is no longer free of charge. If you wish to park in one of the 241 spaces of this car park you will have to pay $ 10 / hour using the pay machine.You can also park at another free 80 car park on the Deepwater Basin Rd. You will need to take the road on your left before arriving at the main car park.A free shuttle runs every 15-20 minutes and will allow you to get to the main terminal. If your cruise depart in the morning you are likely to find spaces available on this car park, but we cannot guarantee it.

Drive to Lumsden on the SH94 and then take SH6 to Queenstown. Your first stop is ARROWTOWN, this former gold mining town is a lively but historic holiday destination. It is nestled beside the Arrow River, and is the home of unique attractions. Visitors can enjoy gold panning, tours around historic buildings, the Chinese Miners Settlement, the district’s museum, a boutique cinema and numerous walking trails. Arrowtown is central to the region’s best in wineries, artist galleries, golf courses, fishing and ski areas. To get to Wanaka take the Crown Range Road which is the highest main road in New Zealand which offers some fascinating views. The road zigzags up to the Crown Terrace and from there you can look down to Arrowtown in the Arrow Valley, and across at the end of the Remarkables and the road to the Remarkables skifield. The road then climbs steeply to the summit – 1119.7 metres above sea level. From there you can see Frankton, part of Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown. For another impressive view walk up the track to the viewing point which opens up the view of the end of the Carrick Range sloping steeply down to the Kawarau Gorge. Wanaka is the world’s first Protected Lifestyle Reserve.

HIGHLIGHTS PINOT NOIR - Central Otago has a long history (for a new world country) as a producer of Pinot Noir. Amongst our favourites, we would mention BALD HILLS and MT DIFFICULTY. There is a very good restaurant at Mt Difficulty. RIPPON VALLEY - one of the Central Otago wineries located on Mt Aspiring Road overlooking Lake Wanaka. With views of Lake Wanaka and the Buchanan Mountains, it is regarded by many as the most beautiful vineyard site in the world. THE BIG PICTURE WINE on SH6 - a good opportunity to taste several wines. Discover the aroma components of wine in the Aroma room. And for those who don’t want to drink and drive, we can organise a guided tour for you. CROMWELL - located in the valley of the Upper Clutha, deep in the heart of the dry interior of Central Otago. In 1862, gold was discovered here. Once the word of a gold strike was out, there was an influx of several thousand miners to the area. MT ASPIRING - a 100km return journey but by driving only 20 to 25 km from Wanaka you should see the mountains of the park. ROB ROY GLACIER or MOU WAHO ISLAND NATURE TOUR - two full day excursions we really like and we can book for you. BICYCLES & KAYAKS - you can rent these to cycle around or paddle out onto the lake.

You will have to follow the SH6 to the glacier region. ON YOUR WAY- HAWEA and WANAKA LAKES, paradoxically you first leave Lake Wanaka for Lake Hawea where the views are magnificent. Then you will arrive on the northern part of Lake Wanaka, the view which is offered to you with Mt Aspiring on your left is magnificent, do not forget to make a few stops to also admire the landscape to which you turn your back towards Wanaka. - HAAST PASS, if you have the time, you can take a few walks. THE GLACIERS REGION, the only glaciers in the world to be so easily accessible in temperate zones. HIGHLIGHTS - FOX GLACIER, 13 km long and a difference in height of 2,600 meters. Take advantage of two possibilities to observe the glacier tongue. In the direction of Haast 3 or 4 km after Fox and after crossing the bridge, turn left and drive a few kilometers (be careful the road is narrow). On your left a sign indicates lookout, the view with the forest in the foreground is magnificent. After crossing the bridge, retracing your steps, turn right, you can approach the glacier on foot. Thank you for respecting the signs and possible prohibitions of access to the periphery of the trail. - FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER, 12 km long, it is 300 meters above sea level in Tasman only 19 km away. Its particularity is to know periods during which it progresses, where the majority of the glaciers in the world melt. The same activities as those of Fox are proposed there, we suggest to families and people looking for tranquility to favor Fox Glacier.

Drive North on SH6 to Punakaiki. HOKITIKA - The cultural centre of the West Coast. This town is sandwiched between surf and river with the mighty Southern Alps as a backdrop, and is also home to the New Zealand’s finest Pounamu, the Jade. This is here you should buy Jade jewellery. HOKITIKA GORGE - 25 km from Hokitika you’ll find this shinning blue river. Do the short walk and after the bridge turn left, this is the best spot for photos. SHANTYTOWN - Widely recognised as one of New Zealand’s leading culture and heritage attractions. Over 30 historic buildings make up the recreated 19th Century pioneer town, inspired by the West Coast gold rushes of the 1860s. Its peaceful setting amongst regenerating native forest gives visitors the opportunity to step back in time, experience a range of activities and view fascinating relics from days gone by. Shantytown’s surrounds and historical theme provide a stunning backdrop for photography enthusiasts. Other highlights include riding the steam train, gold panning, and having an old time portrait taken as a memento of your visit. MONTHEITH’S BREWERY - Found in Greymouth, this is one of the most famous beer brands in New Zealand, you can visit the factory and try their range. HIGHLIGHTS PUNAKAIKI - Best known for its Pancake Rocks and Blowholes - both of which are spectacular and a must-see when visiting the West Coast. The Pancake Rocks are columns of limestone resembling stacks of pancakes. At high tide with a heavy swell running, seawater is forced upwards through blowholes.

Take the SH6 north to Westport then follow the direction of Nelson. To reach Motueka, we advise you to avoid Nelson and take the Motueka Valley Highway on your left after Motupiko. This route will save you time and is more pleasant. At Motueka take the SH60 and a few kilometers after Riwaka, turn right towards Kaiteriteri. ON YOUR WAY - CHARLESTON is located 25 minutes south of Westport on the coast. An important town during the gold rush in the 1960s, today it is famous for its limestone caves, the Nile River and its waterfront at Constance Bay. - WESTPORT, the largest city on the west coast with its port at the mouth of the Buller River. The climate, milder than in the south, offers an environment of choice for a whole range of activities: cave exploration, rafting, jet ski, jet boat, horse riding, walking or cycling, surfing and more. - CAPE FOULWIND / TAURANGA BAY, a 20-minute drive west, is the most accessible fur seal colony in New Zealand. If you continue the road along the coast about 40 minutes north, you will find the villages of Granity and Hector which offer attractive crafts. - BULLER GORGE, we recommend that you stop at Lower Buller Gorge on your way. You will have access to the longest suspension bridge in New Zealand (19m).- Don't panic if you only arrive in Westport at lunch time, you've done the most interesting part that deserved your time to be spent on. ABEL TASMAN is the smallest national park in the country, but it is also a renowned marine reserve with its crystal clear water. Pretty coastal walks and splendid beaches with yellow-orange sand offer a beautiful contrast.

HIGHLIGHTS - ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK is known for its golden sandy beaches, carved granite cliffs and its famous trek along the coast. Easy to visit at any time of the year thanks to its temperate climate, it is one of the essentials of New Zealand.You can decide to just enjoy the beach or ask us to organize one of the following activities: - Taxi boat for a cruise followed by a walk in the park. - Getaway in waka (traditional Maori canoe) with Maori guide, to live an atypical and especially cultural experience, while enjoying the magnificent landscapes that surround you. - Rent a sea kayak, this day activity is a great way to discover Tasman Bay and will make you explore the hidden corners of the park. You can even spot fur seals there. This activity is reserved for ages 14 and over. - Cruise in Abel Tasman Park aboard a catamaran, you can also help the crew to maneuver the boat. You will see the famous Split Apple Rock, this rock shaped like an apple split in two, right in the middle of the sea. A lunch break on Anchorage beach is planned and will give you time for a swim. - Eco tour, to discover the park in a completely different way. Your botanist and ornithologist guide will introduce you to the riches of the region's flora and fauna. NOTRE PETIT PLUS- TE PUKATEA, this fine sandy beach and clear waters is a real gem.

Drive South to Nelson where you take SH6 to Picton / Blenheim, at Havelock follow the signs to Picton. You are on the Queen Charlotte Drive, an outstanding road with multiple photo stops. This is the town where you cross the Cook Straight by ferry. It is also a nice little town where people often don’t spend enough time when passing through unfortunately. Interislander Ferry from Picton to Wellington : Ferry crossing from Picton to Wellington. Final check in is an hour prior to departure. Vehicle on the ferry : car or 4 WD or minibus up to 5.5 metres : Don't forget to put your hand break on and to lock your vehicle. WELLINGTON, the political capital of New Zealand, is a very pleasant and lively city. All too often sloppy due to lack of time, it has a lot to offer. It was recognized as the most “pleasant little capital” in the world by the Lonely Planet in its 2011 selection of the Top 10 cities to discover. And New York is the city with the most cafes / bars per capita!

The road is long, so we suggest you make photo stops on the Kapiti Coast north of Wellington. If you want a good break in the middle, Wanganui is quite well located. Then the road becomes more mountainous, winding and gradually the volcanoes appear. Take SH1 to Wanganui then SH4 to Ohakune then SH47 and SH48 to Whakapapa Village. TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK, you are entering the 4th park in the world to have been classified as a National Park (1897). It then obtained its UNESCO World Heritage ranking in 1990 for its very high cultural and natural value. Its three sleeping volcanoes, Mount Tongariro 1967m, Mount Ngauruhoe 2287m and Mount Ruapehu 2797m, make it legendary. It is also the birthplace of New Zealand's most famous day hike, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and its breathtaking landscapes, interspersed with geothermal phenomena like Emerald Lakes and the Blue Lake in green and turquoise blue. Because New Zealand is a green country, very green, it sometimes means rain, a lot of rain, which makes the show less grandiose, but do not despair, the weather changes very quickly ... Many walks are possible in the park according to the difficulty and the time you wish to devote to it. It is imperative to take a look at the I-site or Information Center to find the correct routes adapted to your walking level and to take note of the weather forecasts.You are in a mountainous region, the weather can change extremely quickly and violently, never leave without essential basic equipment, namely what to protect yourself from rain, wind, cold and sun: waterproof clothing, fleece, hat, glasses and sunscreen. You will also need to plan how to treat small wounds (disinfectant and dressing) and especially what to eat and drink for everyone.

Go up the SH47 in the direction of Taupō, on the way there is a nice viewpoint which dominates the lake before Turangi. TAUPŌ, capital of the North Island for outdoor activities: tandem parachute jump, bungee jumping, helicopter, jet boat ... you will not be bored! HIGHLIGHTS - HUKA FALLS, these waterfalls are worth a look. Their power is due to the narrowing of the river bed, usually 100m wide, in an 80% narrower volcanic rock gorge. The Waikato River propels 220,000 liters of water per second. It is one of the most photographed places in the country, thanks to its turquoise blue color due to oxygen bubbles, Huka meaning foam in Maori. Several walks along the river are possible. - STREET ART, stroll through the city center and discover the many frescoes that adorn the city walls. An impressive spectacle and perfect as a backdrop for souvenir photos. Orakei Korako : Also known as the Hidden Valley. The Silica Terraces that form the base of Orakei-Korako Geyserland and Thermal Park are believed to be the largest of its kind since the destruction of the famous Pink and White Terraces in 1886 on the edge of Lake Rotomahana beneath Mount Tarawera.At present, there are up to 23 active natural geysers that play freely throughout the area.There is a vast number of boiling hot springs to view at Orakei Korako as well as mud pools and there are extensive bush walks to enjoy through areas of native flora and fauna. Head north on SH5 to Rotorua. ROTORUA, world renowned for its geothermal energy, you will be amazed! Indeed, this city is also known for its very particular smell of sulfur. Geysers, fumaroles, hot springs, mud pools, lakes ... Rotorua has a lot to offer.

HIGHLIGHTS - WHAKAREWA FOREST, also known as Redwood Forest is a very beautiful forest of 5600 hectares, on foot or by bike, many more or less long walks are possible. - BLUE LAKE & GREEN LAKE, 15 minutes southeast of Rotorua, these lakes are worth a look. The Tarawera road is a scenic route and takes you to Lake Tarawera. On the horizon you can see the famous Mount Tarawera. - ZOO, hinds, horses, llamas, goats ... that you can feed. A small part of the park is also devoted to the protection of lions, do not miss their lunch at 2:30 p.m. which will be fed in front of you. ONCE UPON A TRIP’S TOUCH - GLOWWORM PADDLE BOARD, aboard a paddle you will experience a magical and amazing activity, taking you to a secret cave where you can admire the glowworms. Do not hesitate to contact us to book. - HAMURANA SPRINGS, are known for their transparent water sources that come from the ground and flow into Lake Rotorua. It is the deepest natural spring on the North Island. The ride is suitable for everyone, takes only 40 minutes and is definitely worth a visit. Surrounded by giant sequoia trees, you follow the stream of crystal-clear water while listening to the birds singing. At the very source, everyone throws a coin to see if it resists the current that comes from it. - ST FAITH’S ANGLICAN CHURCH, church built in 1914, far from the classic image that we have of churches this one incorporates traditional Maori decorations.

There are several options available to you. You can follow the coast via Tauranga on the SH2 and turn to Waihi, or go up north via the land passing through Matamata and Paeroa, the city of the famous kiwi soda: Lemon & Paeroa. COROMANDEL PENINSULA is the favourite holiday destination for Aucklanders with its lovely coastlines and great beaches. HIGHLIGHTS South Coromandel: - WAIHI, is the birthplace of the New Zealand gold rush. Martha's mine is still active and offers an exciting, but a bit long visit for children (under 5 years old). With children we would suggest the I-site museum or Visitor Center which will give you a fun and interactive overview of the city of Waihi at the time of the gold rush. The former water pumping building, Pump House, is still on site. Waihi Beach is a very long beach, perfect for a swim and a picnic. For the more adventurous, join the hidden beach of Orokawa Bay. The path runs along the coast and is north of Waihi beach, it will take you between 1:30 and 2 hours round trip. - THE GOLDFIELDS RAILWAY, little train that connects Waihi and Waikino station. The ideal is to divide the group. One party can take the train while the other drives the car to the finish. - KARANGAHAKE GORGE, several steps along the Ohinemuri river in the footsteps of the former gold miners through the rock extraction tunnels to the old crushing buildings. Hanging bridges, dark tunnels (absolutely provide a flashlight), steep stairs ... A real treasure hunts. - PAEROA, the hometown of the 100% kiwi soft drink, Lemon & Paeroa, a lemon-flavored soda that exists in a sugar-free version. It is also the city of antiquities. - TE AROHA, means love in Maori, a small lost village, famous for its sources of sparkling hot water and its geyser The Mokena (the only geyser of naturally sparkling hot water in the world, it propels 4m of water every 40 minutes).

HIGHLIGHTS East Coast: - WHANGAPOUA & NEW CHUMS BEACH, a little corner of paradise out of sight, you walk along the rocks to reach the hidden beach. - WHITIANGA, another base for visiting the region, for those seeking the tranquility of a spa without the presence of children (admitted from 14 years old), try THE LOST SPRING. - MERCURY BAY & COOKS BEACH, names known in the guides but not necessarily the most beautiful coast or the most beautiful beach according to us. - CATHEDRALE COVE, this mythical stone arch used for the filming of the film Le Monde de Narnia: Prince Caspian is accessible on foot, by boat or by kayak (one of the rare places in New Zealand where kayaking is possible with the family, (don't hesitate to ask us to book for you), it's one of the most popular attractions on the peninsula. At the same time a wonderful marine reserve thanks to the variety of its reef and the species it shelters, it is also an excellent family excursion of 1h30 round trip from the parking lot (a little longer from Hahei beach) on a relatively easy terrain which however includes several steps. Provide water and picnic. - OPOUTERE, cross the small pine-scented forest and land on a magnificent beach, it's a well-kept secret. - HOT WATER BEACH, even dig your private jacuzzi when the tide is low. In summer, water can reach 64˚C at 15 liters per minute. Concentrated in sodium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, fluorine, bromine and silica this water is linked to volcanic phenomena. You can hire shovels at the local cafe. HIGHLIGHTS West Coast: - MIRANDA, natural hot springs and bird sanctuary with more than 100 species of sedentary and migratory birds. - COROMANDEL TOWN, architectural heritage from the prosperous era of gold and wood, but also the starting point for the country's only mountain railway, Driving Creek Railway.-

Take the direction of SH1 towards north. Depending on the time you have available and if you are passionate about ornithology or want to swim in a hot spring, we suggest a short stopover in Miranda. When entering Auckland, stay on the SH1 then take the Nelson exit to arrive in the city center. To reach your accommodation, see the "how to get there" section. AUCKLAND, the "Big Little City" has so much to offer, don't just consider it your stage of arrival or departure. HIGHLIGHTS - SKY TOWER, allows stunning perspectives on the city, you will be surprised by the omnipresence of greenery in the most populated city of the country. For the more adventurous, do not hesitate to try the Sky Walk which is a walk of 192 meters high. - BRITOMART is the name of the station but also of the new district which is just behind. There you will find bars, restaurants, designer shops. - WINEYARD QUARTER, specially renovated for the Rugby World Cup, this area has been given a makeover to make way for a panel of bars and restaurants with terraces. A pleasant place to stroll or you can even take a stroll at the Fish Market (open daily from 7 a.m. to 6.30 p.m.). A unique opportunity to discover the local species, to taste the kiwi oysters, to taste a real Fish & Chip or to discover the famous green mussels of New Zealand. - PONSONBY is THE most lively and trendy district of Auckland! You will find many restaurants, bars but also dozens of small designer boutiques. Cradle of youth in the 60s and 70s, Ponsonby has kept this multi-cultural imprint which makes it a highlight. - PONSONBY CENTRAL, this is where you have to go to soak up the kiwi atmosphere! A few shops but above all a multitude of small restaurants, including a tiny pizzeria which offers only 3 choices of pizzas but definitely remains one of the best addresses we have tested!

Drop your car off at the airport.