New Zealand

The other "land Down Under" is lots smaller than neighbor Australia yet packs in a boggling amount of beauty and adventure in its two main islands and various other smaller ones -- along with Maori culture and a touch of urban cosmopolitanism. And of course let's not forget Hobbiton!

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Top 7 cool things to do in Auckland

If you are planning a holiday visit to the New Zealand's biggest urban area, you can be sure of dozens of activities to make your visit a memorable one. Here we have put together seven of the most exciting things to do and places to see when you visit Auckland. read post

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Hawke's Bay, North Island cited in '7 Gorgeous Glamping Destinations'

How beautiful to imagine yourself in a camp locates in a glorious camp surrounded by beautiful environs. Singing and romancing on cold nights sitting around the fireside, staring on the stars in silent surroundings listening to the sounds of little creatures, basking on the lavish mattress, all that makes you dream to discover what camping in the glorious destinations of the world means. Morocco was the first place where I got the idea to experience the difference of international "glamping" -…

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Tauranga a popular destination on the North Island's Bay of Plenty

The most populous city (pop. 142,000) in the Bay of Plenty region on the North Island's north coast, besides being a dynamic city that's one of New Zealand's fastest growing, Tauranga is also a very popular tourism destination, thanks to a cosmopolitan yet laid back vibe and arts scene paired with its natural attractions and scenery, ranging from popular beaches to lush, forest-clad mountains and waterfalls. Here are some of Tauranga’s top things to do: read post

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4 exciting activities in Rotorua

Rotorua is known as the "little town" of New Zealand's North Island (though its population is nearly 60,000), and the country's "Sulphur City," world famous for the geothermal activity resulting the area's volcanic activity. There are no live volcanoes around here, but plenty of hot water comes out from deep under the earth, manifesting as bubbling mud pools, geysers, and warm streams. Rotorua is also home to a rich Maori culture, sublime wildlife and landscapes, and plenty of adrenaline-packed…

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Donna Hamilton November 4, 2011 at 1:28am

Hmmm, if NZ gets a blast from the South, it could be a bit chilly!!...if NZ gets a Nor'wester, you'll be wondering what country you are in!!

Last week Dunedin had 27'C... so be prepared :)
Ed Wetschler November 4, 2011 at 1:08am

All great suggestions. I'm at a Society of American Travel Writers board of directors meeting, after which I attend the general SATW meeting in Wellington. And then, a four-day hike on the Queen Charlotte Track. For better or for worse, my schedule is writ in stone at this point. I do have one big question for which I have no answer: Will I survive that hike?
Betty Austin-Ware November 4, 2011 at 12:30am

Get a children's book on the earthquake in Napier.
Betty Austin-Ware November 4, 2011 at 12:29am

There are too many places to single out just a few, but the Coramandel is wonderful and Sharon Johanssen's tours there, Napier's Master's Lodge so romantic, Nelson, lovely and super friendly as is all of New Zealand,

architecture in Wellington, Bay of Islands, on and on forever. And where you were when you wrote this is the best for dinner and views anywhere.
Susan Schaefer November 4, 2011 at 12:09am

I must second Iris' recommendation of Napier ... had clients in NZ for the RWC and they drove over to Napier from New Plymouth between a couple of games, and they raved about Napier when they got home ... they couldn't say enough great things about it (or the drive).
Iris November 3, 2011 at 11:53pm

Ed....I wonder if you are travelling south, if so you must drive 5 from Taupo over one of our outstanding scenic drives to the East Coast to Napier - World's Art Deco Capital' and to explore this beautiful voluptuous landscape known as Hawke's Bay. Over 70 vineyards, many with world-class wines, where the best reds in NZ are grown. Fabulous beaches, largest mainland gannet colony in the world - a breath-taking journey. Fabulous restaurants using the best of fresh produce grown locally - a true wine and food destination. A must do is to drive to the summit of Te Mata Peak, situated behind Havelock North, an utterly charming village known as 'The jewell in the Crown'. Beautiful Bed and Breakfasts in this area, including ours - www.hawkesbayhomestay.co.nz :-) although closed from Nov 7 - Dec 10. If you love Waiheke, you will adore Hawke's Bay!!
Donna Hamilton November 3, 2011 at 11:48pm

...any chance of you experiencing our unique-to-Auckland tour??...you are very close.
Ed Wetschler November 3, 2011 at 11:41pm

Good advice, Donna. Keither, I'm already planning to visit Waiheke on Saturday. Many thanks to you both.
Donna Hamilton November 3, 2011 at 9:48pm

NO don't imagine it !! :) And looking over (slightly) in the distance, the long row of dark green hills is the Waitakere Ranges...Auckland's "rainforest". It's unbelievably no more than 40 minutes drive away. Ideal for a Shore Excursion tour for Cruise Boat passengers as you'll get out into the countryside to see the real New Zealand (while still being cosy-close to your ship!!). There are some wonderful Bed & Breakfast accommodations there too should anyone wish to stay longer.
Keith Bishop November 3, 2011 at 8:49pm

Pleased you are enjoying the view. Do try and make time to get out the harbour. The ferry ride over to Waiheke is a good way of seeing it.