New Zealand’s North East

SPECTACULAR NORTHLAND: 
Spectacular yet diverse coastlines, marine reserves, ancient forests and two oceans that collide make Northland an unmissable destination.  Not only is New Zealand’s northernmost subtropical region beautiful, it’s also a place of deep cultural and historical significance, where New Zealand’s two peoples came together, Māori and Pakeha (Europeans). To discover the “birthplace of New Zealand”, you need to visit Northland.

The best of Northland

  • Māori culture and history – Visit Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the site where Māori and the British Crown came together to sign the Treaty of Waitangi – the nation’s founding document. A range of enriching tours and activities can be arranged.
  • Ancient living forests – With a guided tour by day or at twilight, you can experience some of the largest and oldest living rainforest trees in the world, including the 2000-year-old Tane Mahuta (Lord of the Forest) Kauri.
  • Contrasting coastlines – On the east coast you will find the Bay of Islands – with long stretches of white sand beach and sheltered bays. You will encounter dolphins while cruising or sailing the clear waters, or take a scenic flight. By contrast, the west coast is rugged and unspoiled – visit Hokianga, where 1,000 years ago the great explorer Kupe is said to have landed his Waka.

New Zealand’s South West

MAGNIFICENT FIORDLAND: 
Fiordland is one of the southern hemisphere’s great wilderness regions, and one of the most dramatic and beautiful parts of New Zealand.  Dominated by the snow-capped Southern Alps, deep lakes and ocean-flooded, steep valleys – Fiordland has achieved World Heritage status for its stunning natural features and its role in demonstrating the world’s evolutionary history. 
  • Milford Sound – You can easily access Milford Sound via a coach journey through the glacier-carved wilderness of the country’s largest national park, followed by a cruise in the fiords. Alternatively you can fly in by helicopter, or take a scenic flight and cruise.
  • Doubtful Sound – You can lose yourselves in Doubtful Sound’s pristine wilderness on a daytime or overnight cruise, or get even closer in a sea kayak. Keep your eyes peeled for bottlenose dolphins, New Zealand fur seals and the Fiordland crested penguin.