Walking Must-Do's 2021

MUST 2021

New Zealand walks from 30 minutes to multi-day

YOUR FREE COPY

DOs

Featuring Short Walks, Day Hikes & Great Walks • Walk Descriptions • Maps • Safety Tips • Things to See & Do • Places to Stay

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AUCKLAND

Lace up with The Great Journeys of New Zealand.

Whether you’re a trailblazer, Sunday stroller or simply looking to explore Middle Earth, there’s an adventure out there for you. Our scenic trains and ferry offer an easy way to travel and explore with hop-on-hop-off excursions, so you can experience New Zealand’s spectacular walking trails.

• Matamata • Waitomo

Tongariro National Park •

Paraparaumu •

•

Nelson

Find out more: greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

PICTON

GREYMOUTH

• Kaikōura

• Lake Brunner Arthur’s Pass •

• Waimakariri River

CHRISTCHURCH

Kevin Hague on boardwalk © Neil Silverwood

TE ARAROA, NEW ZEALAND’S TRAIL This long-distance trail runs the length of New Zealand, from Cape Rēinga in the north to Bluff at the bottom of the South Island. Officially opened in 2011, the 3000km trail is New Zealand’s equivalent of the Appalachian or Pacific Crest Trail in the USA or the Bibbulmun in Australia. It follows the route of several tracks, including the Queen Charlotte and Harper Pass tracks and parts of the Travers-Sabine circuit and St James Walkway. For more information visit www.teararoa.org.nz

A

s you walk through New Zealand’s incredibly diverse landscape – our coastlines, forests and mountains – be hopeful that it’s not too late to bring back the birdsong.

Groups like Forest & Bird are working to make this a reality.

As New Zealand’s leading independent conservation organisation, we have a unique role to play.

Our 50 branches throughout New Zealand work on the ground to restore nature by running pest control programmes, native plant nurseries, public talks, field trips and displays.

Aotearoa is a land of birds. From flightless icons like the kiwi to penguins that live in the forest, we have an eclectic array of fascinating species. But the cacophony of birdsong that would have once filled our land is gone. Native birds are in crisis, with three quarters of our land birds threatened with or at risk of extinction.

We’re involved with a huge range of projects that you might come across in your travels through New Zealand. These include Auckland’s Ark in the Park, working to reintroduce species which would have once lived in the Waitākere Ranges; Bushy Park, a predator-proof fenced remnant of lowland rainforest near Whanganui; and Otago’s Bring Back the Seabirds project, aiming to enhance remnant breeding populations of seabirds such as tītī sooty shearwaters.

As a charity funded by our members and supporters, we punch above our weight in advocating for better

environmental protection. You can help by joining Forest & Bird.

What really drives our success is New Zealander’s love of nature, a love that comes from people like you being in nature, dreaming about what could be possible. So when you are out walking, I’d ask you to take a moment to imagine what it would be like to hear the eerie call of kiwi at night, or to walk amongst a flock of ‘bush canaries’ mōhua yellowhead flitting noisily through beech trees.

KEVIN HAGUE CEO of Royal Forest & Bird Protection Society of New Zealand

WALKING MUST-DO’S 1

WALKING MUST-DO’S

WEST COAST

Discover our Kiwi Gems

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2

Welcome to Walking Must-Do’s

Oparara Arches, West Coast © Fraser Clements

ISBN > 978-1-98-852358-3 © The New Zealand Automobile Association Incorporated 2020. All rights reserved.

AA, the AA logo and the Tourism pictogram are registered trademarks and the colour combination YELLOW & BLACK are trademarks of The New Zealand Automobile Association Incorporated.

While every care has been taken in the compilation of this guide, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for inaccuracies or changes since going to press, or for consequential loss arising from such changes or other inaccuracies, or any other loss direct or consequential arising in connection with information provided in the publication.

There is no requirement for advertisers in this guide to provide discounts for AA Members; some individual advertisers offer concessions and details of these are indicated in their listings. All content in advertisements was provided by advertisers.

CONTENTS 4 5 6 7 8 10

NORTH ISLAND MAP North Island Contents SOUTH ISLAND MAP South Island Contents Walking in New Zealand New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks

Northland Auckland The Coromandel, Bay of Plenty & Eastland Central North Island Lower North Island

56 Marlborough & Nelson Tasman 62 West Coast 68 Canterbury 76 Lower South Island

Keeping safe

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced (except brief passages for the purpose of review), stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording or otherwise, without prior written permission of the publishers.

• Plan your trip in advance by researching the terrain and suggested hike time.

• Tell someone your plans beforehand.

Published in November 2020 by AA Tourism Publishing Ltd Level 1, Building 2, 61 Constellation Drive, Mairangi Bay, North Shore, Auckland 0632 PO Box 101 001, North Shore, Auckland 0745 T. +64 9 966 8720 F. +64 9 966 8721 E. tourism.images@aa.co.nz W. www.aatraveller.co.nz ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: T. +64 9 966 8720 E. tourism.sales@aa.co.nz

12 22 30

40 50

ABOVE: Taranaki Falls, Tongariro Northern Circuit © Department of Conservation / 90 Seconds COVER IMAGE: Mt Taranaki © Getty Images

COVID CASUALTIES While every care has been taken in the compilation of this guide, due to the pandemic there may have been changes since going to press. We advise you to check before you visit any establishment mentioned in this guide, as they may be in hibernation, offering limited services or no longer open for business.

• Consider all medical issues.

Know the limits of every walker, pace yourselves and stay together.

• Take sufficient supplies.

• Check the weather and prepare for it.

• Keep cellphones and maps in waterproof bags.

• Consider who you’re walking with and understand their fitness levels as well as your own.

• Wear the right gear. Take rain protection, avoid cotton clothing and keep your core warm.

WALKING TRACK KEY Time and distance

Track terrain

Loop track

Track Grade

Dogs allowed

No dogs

WALKING MUST-DO’S 3

WALKING MUST-DO’S

North Cape

Cape RÄ“inga

Ninety Mile Beach

Great Exhibition Bay

Pukenui

Houhora

Ahipara

Karikari Peninsula Coopers Beach MangĹ?nui Matauri Bay KaitaiÄ 1

3 Kerikeri 2 Russell Paihia

RÄ wene Hokianga Harbour

ĹŒpononi

KaihĹŤ

WhananÄ ki MatatÄ TutukÄ kÄ

Waipoua Forest

Kai Iwi Lakes

Poor Knights Is.

Kawakawa 4

5

WhÄ ngarei

6 WhÄ ngarei Heads

10

7

Dargaville

WaipĹŤ

8

9 Matakohe

Bream Bay

Mangawhai

Great Barrier Is. Leigh Matakana 2 Snells Beach Port Jackson ĹŒrewa 1

Hibiscus Colville Hauraki Coast New Chums Beach Gulf Helensville 3 6 7 Coromandel 8 AUCKLAND WÄ itakere Whitianga 2 4 Hot Water Beach 5 Titirangi

Manakau 9 3

Ä€whitu Peninsula Kaiaua Pukekohe Thames Miranda Waiuku

NgÄ tea Waihi Te Kauwhata Paeroa Waihi Beach 4

1

Wellsford

Warkworth

Raglan

Tasman Sea

1

Cambridge

3

KÄ whia

Te Awamutu

4

Taranaki Bight Waitara NEW PLYMOUTH

1

Egmont 2 National Park

8 7

Tongariro National Whanganui Raetihi Park National Park ĹŒhakune WaiĹ?uru

Te Urewera

6

TĹŤrangi

National Park

Stratford

South Taranaki Bight

TaupĹ?

Urenui

Murupara Rere Falls

Pureora Forest Park

Whangamomona

ĹŒpotiki

5

Taumarunui

HÄ wera

Rotorua Tokoroa

Te KĹŤiti

Awakino

TAURANGA Matamata Papamoa Beach Te Puke Te Kaha

6 WhakatÄ ne TÄŤrau

ĹŒhope Beach

ĹŒtorohanga

Waitomo Caves

ĹŒtaki

Kapiti Is.

4

5

Cook Strait

8 GISBORNE

Mahia Peninsula

NAPIER

WaimÄ rama WaipÄ wa Waipukurau

Dannevirke

Blackhead Beach

Pahiatua

PaciďŹ c Ocean

Flat Point White Rock Cape Palliser

Castle Point

NORTH ISLAND Northland Auckland The Coromandel, Bay of Plenty & Eastland Central North Island Lower North Island

4

Tolaga Bay

Woodville

Masterton Paraparaumu Upper Hutt Carterton PaekÄ kÄ riki

Greytown Porirua Martinborough 6 WELLINGTON

7

Marton Feilding

Bulls PALMERSTON NORTH HÄŤmatangi Beach Foxton Beach Foxton WaitÄ rere Beach Levin

RuatĹ?ria

Hastings Havelock North

Ruahine Forest Park

East Cape

Raukumara Forest Park

Wairoa Hawke’s Bay

WHANGANUI

Te Urewera

Taihape

7

Hicks Bay

Kaweka Forest Park

3

Whakaari/ White Is.

5 Mt Maunganui

HAMILTON

2

Bay of Plenty

Katikati

Te Aroha

Huntly

Walking Must-Do’s of North Island

NORTH ISLAND CONTENTS 12 Walking Must-Do’s of Northland 13 Rainbow Falls Walks &

Kerikeri River Track, Kerikeri 13 Bay of Islands Coastal

Walkway, Paihia 15 Cape Brett Track,

Bay of Islands 18 Ruapekapeka Pā Track,

near Kawakawa 18 Hātea Loop Walkway,

Whangārei 19 Mt Manaia Track, Whangārei Heads 19 Waipū Caves Track, Waipū 20 Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway, Mangawhai 20 Tokatoka Scenic Reserve Track, Kaipara 21 Kai Iwi Lakes Coastal Track, Dargaville 22 Walking Must-Do’s of Auckland 23 Mt Tamahunga Walkway, Matakana 23 Te Ara Tahuna Estuary

Walkway, Ōrewa 24 North Shore Coastal Walk,

North Auckland 25 Auckland Foreshore Heritage

Walk, Central Auckland

27 Coast to Coast Walkway,

Waitematā to Manukau to

Central Auckland 27 Rangitoto Summit Track,

Rangitoto Island 28 Waiheke Art Walking Trail,

Waiheke Island 29 Te Atatū Peninsula Walkway,

West Auckland 29 Hūnua Falls Loop Track, South Auckland 30 Walking Must-Do’s of The

Coromandel, Bay of Plenty

& Eastland 31 Coromandel Coastal Walkway,

Port Charles 33 Cathedral Cove Walk,

The Coromandel 34 Kauaeranga Kauri Trail

(Pinnacles Walk),

The Coromandel 35 Karangahake Gorge Historic

Walkway, Waihi 36 Mt Maunganui (Mauao)

Summit Walk, Mt Maunganui 38 Ngā Tapuwae o Toi Walkway,

Whakatāne 39 Lake Waikaremoana Track,

Te Urewera 39 Cooks Cove Walkway,

Tolaga Bay, Eastland

40 Walking Must-Do’s of

Central North Island 41 Hamilton Lake Walkway, Hamilton 42 Wairēinga/Bridal Veil Falls, Raglan 43 Mt Pirongia Summit via

Mahaukura Track, Waikato 45 Ruakuri Walk, Waitomo 46 Blue Lake Track, Rotorua 48 Great Lake Walkway, Taupō 48 Tongariro Northern Circuit, Ruapehu 49 Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Ruapehu 50 Walking Must-Do’s of

Lower North Island 52 Pouakai Crossing, Taranaki 53 Dawson Falls Walking Tracks, Taranaki 53 Bridge to Nowhere Walk,

Whanganui region 54 Manawatū Gorge Tawa

Loop Walk, Manawatū 54 Ōrongorongo Track,

Remutaka Forest Park 55 Mākara Walkway, Wellington 55 City to Sea Walkway, Wellington

Tongariro Crossing, Central North Island © Graeme Murray/Tourism NZ

This is it. The full tramping shebang.

Hiking the North Island is like ticking off Nature’s checklist.

Mountains?

Tick. Coast, volcanoes and rainforest?

Oh yes. Add lakes, caves and a blitz of geothermal activity and it’s the full sweep.

LEFT: Coromandel Coastal Walkway © Destination Coromandel TOP LEFT: Walking in New Zealand rainforest © Getty Images FAR LEFT: Kids exploring Rangitoto Island, Auckland © Fraser Clements/Tourism NZ

WALKING MUST-DO’S 5

WALKING MUST-DO’S

it Stra ok Co

Farewell Spit Port PĹŤponga Collingwood Golden Bay

4

Oparara Basin

1

Karamea

Westport

Maruia Springs

Springs Junction

Greymouth Moana/Lake Brunner

6

Mt Hutt Ski Area

8 Fox Glacier

Aoraki/Mt Cook Mt Somers National Park Aoraki/Mt Cook TekapĹ?

Jackson Bay

Twizel

Makaroa Mount Aspiring National Park

Milford Sound

5

4

Clyde

7

8

Alexandra

6 ManapĹ?uri

Roxburgh

Te Anau

Waikaia

Mosgiel

Fiordland National Park

Tuatapere

Tapanui Gore

Edendale

10

The Catlins Owaka

11

Blu

ux Strait Fovea

Catlins Coast

12

Oban / Halfmoon Bay

Stewart Is. /Rakiura

6

Balclutha

Winton

Colac Bay Riverton/Aparima INVERCARGILL

Milton

3

Little River

Ashburton

4

Akaroa Banks Peninsula

Canterbury Bight

Geraldine

SOUTH ISLAND

Timaru

ĹŒamaru

Moeraki

Waikouaiti

Port Chalmers

Mossburn

Lyttelton

Methven

Macraes Middlemarch

Doubtful Sound/ Patea

Woodend Kaiapoi CHRISTCHURCH

PaciďŹ c Ocean

Naseby Ranfurly

3

DarďŹ eld

Glentunnel

Waimate

Kurow

Arrowtown Cromwell

Queenstown 2

SpringďŹ eld

WÄ naka

Glenorchy

Amberley

Rangiora

Lake HÄ wea

1

Cheviot

Temuka

8

ĹŒmarama

Milford Sound/ Piopiotahi

7 Fairlie Pleasant Point

ĹŒhau

1 KaikĹ?ura Hanmer Springs

Waipara

Franz Josef Glacier

Haast

5 6

7

Paringa

2

Arthurs Pass

Ward

7

Jacksons

Hokitika Ross

Seddon

Reefton

5

Tasman Sea

Valley

Saint Arnaud

Blenheim

Nelson Lakes National Park

4

Punakaiki

Murchison

8

Spring Creek

6 Wairau

Buller Gorge

ĹŒkiwi Bay Portage Havelock 5 Picton

NELSON Richmond

Motupiko

2

Karamea Bight

3

Marlborough Sounds

TÄ kaka 1 2 Kahurangi Abel Tasman National Park National Park Kaiteriteri 3 Motueka MÄ pua

KÄ kÄ Point

Otago Peninsula

9

DUNEDIN

Marlborough & Nelson Tasman West Coast Canterbury Lower South Island

Walking Must-Do’s of South Island

SOUTH ISLAND CONTENTS 56 Walking Must-Do’s of

Marlborough & Nelson Tasman 57 Wainui Falls Track,

Abel Tasman National Park 58 Abel Tasman Coast Track,

Abel Tasman National Park 58 Tākaka Hill Walkway, Tākaka 59 Heaphy Track, Buller 60 Queen Charlotte Track, Marlborough 60 Lake Chalice Hut Walk,

Mt Richmond 61 Lake Rotoiti Circuit,

Nelson Lakes 61 Speargrass Track, Nelson Lakes 62 Walking Must-Do’s

of West Coast 63 Oparara Arch Walk, Karamea 63 Charming Creek Walkway, Buller 64 Cape Foulwind Walkway, Westport

64 Truman Track, Punakāiki 65 Paparoa Track & Pike29

Memorial Track, Greymouth 66 Hokitika Gorge Walk, Hokitika 67 Franz Josef Glacier Walk,

Franz Josef Glacier 67 Lake Matheson Walk,

Fox Glacier 68 Walking Must-Do’s of Canterbury 69 Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway,

Kaikōura 72 Mt Isobel Track, Hurunui 73 Awaroa/Godley Head Loop

Track, Christchurch 73 Round the Mountain

via Curry Track, Akaroa 74 Devils Punchbowl Walking

Track, Arthur’s Pass 74 Kura Tāwhiti Access Track,

Castle Hill, Selwyn District 75 Peel Forest Park Scenic

Reserve Walks, Geraldine

75 Caroline Bay, Timaru Botanic

Gardens & Centennial Park

Walks, Timaru 76 Walking Must-Do’s of

Lower South Island 77 Roys Peak Track, Mt Apsiring 78 Queenstown Hill Time Walk, Queenstown 79 Bannockburn Sluicings,

Central Otago 80 Routeburn Track,

Mt Aspiring/Queenstown 81 Milford Track, Fiordland 82 Kepler Track, Te Anau 82 South Hill Walkway, Ōamaru 83 Moeraki Boulders Beach Walk

& Millennium Walkway, Waitaki 84 Harbourside Path, Dunedin 85 Nugget Point/Tokata Walks, Clutha 85 Cathedral Caves Walk,

The Catlins 86 Rakiura Track, Stewart Island

There is sorcery afoot (pun very much intended) here. No sooner have your eyes settled on the South Island’s irresistible terrain, and your feet, as if by magic, have wiggled into a pair of walking boots. Such is the beauty here, hiking becomes impulsive.

TOP: Abel Tasman National Park © Getty Images LEFT: Ulva Island, Southland © Real Journeys TOP LEFT: Hooker Track, Aoraki Mt Cook © Getty Images LEFT: Yellow-eyed penguin/hoiho, Otago Peninsula © Getty Images

WALKING MUST-DO’S 7

WALKING MUST-DO’S

WALKING

IN NEW ZEALAND

WHAT IS DOC? DOC stands for Department of Conservation (or ‘Te Papa Atawhai’).

DOC manages a network of walks and over 950 huts. Its website is your go-to for all things hiking and tramping, including information on track closures and how to book DOC campsites and huts.

– www.doc.govt.nz

WHAT ARE NEW ZEALANDS’ GREAT WALKS? In New Zealand you’ll hear fellow walkers rave about New Zealand’s Great Walks. With jaw-dropping

So remarkable are New Zealand’s many walks, they convert even the most ardent antiwalkers into hiking enthusiasts.

If you’re new to tramping, read up before you lace up...

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scenery and well-kept multiday trails (and one is even a canoe route), these 10 walks are

NEED TO KNOW Visit www.doc.govt. nz for information on track closures,

considered unmissable.

TOP TIP: Read more about each Great Walk on page 10.

WHAT SHOULD I TAKE? Appropriate footwear, plenty of water, and depending on the duration of your walk, ample food,

alerts relevant

first aid and a head torch. Even in

to conservation

the height of summer, a rain jacket

areas, weather updates and safety plans.

and pack cover is recommended, as are waterproof bags for your tech and maps.

TOP TIP: Don’t waste precious food on the wildlife! Feeding the birds can harm them.

ABOVE: Cape Rēinga, Northland © Getty Images LEFT: Mt Ngāuruhoe, Tongariro National Park © Fraser Clements/ Tourism NZ RIGHT: Lewis Pass, Canterbury © Getty Images BOTTOM: Fox Glacier guided walk, West Coast © Getty Images

HOW DO I STAY ON TRACK? New Zealand’s walking tracks are vast and the bush is a labyrinth-like terrain. However, marked tracks are numerous, well-maintained and are dotted with orange triangles to guide you safely along the route.

TOP TIP: Before setting off, even if you’re in a group, let someone know where you’re going and how long you expect to be gone for.

WHAT CAN I DO TO STAY SAFE? HOW CAN I BE ENVIRO-FRIENDLY?

Plan well in advance and research

Leave no trace: carry out exactly

Zealand, often without warning.

your walk thoroughly. The weather can change quickly in New

what you carry in, including

Always check the weather forecast

rubbish. Stay on marked tracks to

and pack the right gear for the

protect the natural environment,

conditions. Ensure the track is well

and plan your trip well ahead

within your physical capabilities

so your environmental impact is minimal. Toilets aren’t always readily available, so be aware which tracks you might need to “dig and dispose”.

TOP TIP: Kauri dieback is an uncurable disease killing kauri trees.

Please keep to the tracks, clean all your footwear and equipment (look out for cleaning stations) and stay away from tree roots.

Go-To Online Resources The NZ Mountain Safety Council (MSC) in collaboration with their partners has a range of free resources to make your walk a total success: PLANNING MADE EASY ‘Plan My Trip’ is an interactive, step-by-step planning tool.

beforehand – and all those you’re going with.

TOP TIP: MetService provides New Zealand’s official weather forecasts.

See www.metservice.com for warnings, short and long range forecasts and to download the mobile weather app.

you’ll get a packing list, trip recommendations and weather

WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW?

alerts, as well as avalanche advisories and updates for DOC

• Care is needed when swimming

Simply add the trip location, timeframe and group size and

huts, campsites and tracks.

HOW TO VIDEOS The 29 videos in the ‘Get Outdoors Series’ detail some of the things you’ll need to know before you go. They are free to watch online and include basic outdoor survival tips.

FORGOTTEN SOMETHING? The ‘Discovery Day Walking and Tramping’ e-Learning tools guide you through the essential stages of planning a walk.

This step-by-step interactive tool addresses all pre-walk considerations and reduces the risk of forgetting something. www.mountainsafety.org.nz

TOHU WHENUA ARE PLACES AROUND NEW ZEALAND THAT MATTER TO KIWIS. RICH IN HISTORICAL OR CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE, VISITORS ARE PRESENTED WITH AUTHENTIC INSIGHT INTO AOTEAROA. VISIT TOHUWHENUA.NZ FOR MORE INFORMATION.

on New Zealand beaches. Rips are dangerous but difficult to identify so aim to swim at patrolled beaches, stay within the flags and ideally, avoid going in alone.

• Always lock your car, keep valuables and passports at your accommodation and don’t leave bags unattended.

• Carry a mobile phone. In an emergency call 111.

Visit www.aa.co.nz/travel for road trip itineraries, inspiration and accommodation options with discounts for AA members.

For road rules, maps, time and distance calculations, an EV charge finder, as well as road closures, visit www.aa.co.nz

WALKING MUST-DO’S 9

WALKING MUST-DO’S Tongariro Crossing © Getty Images

NEW ZEALAND’S 10 GREAT WALKS What to expect: • Multiple hours of walking per day.

• DOC huts and/or campsites: no thrills, back-to-nature accommodation.

• To carry your every provision for the duration: food, drink, tent, toilet roll! And more...

• The unexpected. Walks are at the mercy of Mother Nature so check what’s open beforehand at www.doc.govt.nz.

• An easier option: travel companies offer itineraries with guides, pre-arranged accommodation, luggage transfer services, car relocation, pre-prepared food and gear that you can hire.

Get off the wellbeaten path and sign up for an adventure. New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks are a collection of multi-day trails that pass through some of Aotearoa’s most startling landscapes.

1

TONGARIRO NORTHERN CIRCUIT: NORTH ISLAND IS AN ADVENTURE OF TOLKIEN PROPORTIONS Most walks on Earth don’t look like this. With desert plains that crash into red craters, steaming blisters, neon-bright lakes and three enormous volcanic peaks, this is doomsday meets the great Gates of Mordor. In fact, Mt Ngāuruhoe towers one-kilometre overhead and when it’s not brooding silently, poses for The Lord of the Rings’ fans as the ominous Mount Doom. This three-day circuit initially follows the popular Tongariro Alpine Crossing, but when the path splits, a barren, lunar-like landscape dares you to go further.

For track tips Sam and Frodo could’ve done with, see page 48.

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LAKE WAIKAREMOANA: NORTH ISLAND IS MAGICAL TALES ALONG MAGICAL TRAILS No one can resist the promise of a goblin forest, ethereal waterfalls and Patupaiarehe (forest fairies).

Lake Waikaremoana is located in Te Urewera, an area long considered the ancestral home of the Ngāi Tūhoe tribe – the ‘Children of the Mist’, and since 2014, an independent legal identity. This means that Mother Nature is 100% in charge here.

Since Tūhoe were made legal guardians of Te Urewera, the land has been allowed to flourish. It’s a highly spiritual place that fully enchants walkers over the course of three to four days.

2

Read the complete low-down on

Lake Waikaremoana on page 39.

WHANGANUI JOURNEY: NORTH ISLAND IS THE ONE THAT MASQUERADES AS A WALK Is there any such thing as a 150km walk where you get to sit down the entire time? In New Zealand there is. Paddling a kayak downstream, the Whanganui Journey is a three to five-day river adventure.

You can find more information online at www.doc.govt.nz.

3

ROUTEBURN TRACK: SOUTH ISLAND IS LARGER THAN LIFE

How strange it is to feel so far removed from the real world, while being in the very thick of the real world. There is no phone reception along the 32km Routeburn Track; no burning emails, social posts, messages or memes. There is only nature. On any given day (there are three in total), you’ll be walking through clouds, staring into crystalline blue lakes or trailing, like ants, between enormous glacialcarved valleys. Easily the most beautiful landscape you’ll ever have the pleasure to walk through.

Get ready for this worldrenowned walk and head to page

4

80 for more information.

5

KEPLER TRACK: SOUTH ISLAND IS MOUNTAINS FOR MILES For a trail that spends much of its time above the tree line, bathing in lofty mountainous views and never-ending panoramas, look no further than the Kepler Track.

For 60km and four days, navigate knife-like ridgelines, gaze across snow-capped peaks and stare into lakes many miles below. At dusk, the sky becomes a canvas for the sun to slay with colour, and by morning mountain kea, AKA naughty alpine parrots, will be tapping at the window. These notorious thieves like to recce the area, like a feathered rendition of Ocean’s Eleven.

To tackle the Kepler like a seasoned pro, see page 82.

6

MILFORD TRACK: SOUTH ISLAND IS THE FINEST WALK IN THE WORLD

Or so said poet, Blanche Baughan in 1908 having experienced the four-day, 53.5km walk for herself.

Arriving here is like being plucked from modern life and deposited in an untouched pocket of the planet.

From one beautiful waterfall to the next, mountain-reflecting lakes and a level of green that only nature knows how to create, Blanche may have been an expressive poet, but she didn’t exaggerate this one.

ABEL TASMAN COAST TRACK: SOUTH ISLAND IS A BEACH HOLIDAY WITH A DIFFERENCE

9

ABOVE: Heaphy Track © Nelson Tasman Tourism

7

HEAPHY TRACK: SOUTH ISLAND IS NATURE LIKE YOU’VE NEVER SEEN IT BEFORE If ever there were ‘Seven Natural Wonders of New Zealand’, you’d find them all on the Heaphy Track.

There are nīkau palms, which means ‘no nuts’ in Māori because these nutless palm trees don’t have coconuts, and powelliphanta, giant carnivorous snails that feed on huge portions of earth worms like it’s spaghetti. There are also ruru, the native owl, and gnarly Brother Grimms-style trees called rātā, as well as fluffy kiwis, an extremely rare blue duck and the jagged peaks of the Dragons Teeth mountain range. You have 78km and four days to find them all.

For help on how to make the most of Heaphy, see page 59.

PAPAROA TRACK & PIKE29 MEMORIAL TRACK: SOUTH ISLAND IS THE NEWEST GREAT WALK IN 25 YEARS

Feel like following in Blanche’s footsteps?

Start by reading page 81.

It’s the newest Great Walk to join the repertoire, but Paparoa Track is hugely historic. From its 1930s miners hut to a 100-year-old quartz crushing battery, remnants of the past are frozen in time; none more poignant than the memorial site commemorating 29 lost lives of the Pike River explosions.

Crossing the Paparoa Range on a track built for both mountain bikers and walkers, the trail climbs steeply over 55km and three days.

Steadfast trampers are rewarded with river gorges, limestone cliffs and sunsets worthy of applause.

8

Read more on page 65.

Whereas many Great Walks are about the beech, this one’s all about the beach. With 60km of flat coastal track that ducks in and out of bay-peeking forest, togs are just as necessary as tramping boots.

If the weather plays nice, you’ll be presented with one blue vista after another. Navigate various low tide crossings to reach empty beaches and surprising swimming holes such as Cleopatra’s Cove.

With a fresh forest scent and near silence, save for the sound of crashing waves, this one not only looks good, it sounds and smells pretty special, too.

Familiarise yourself with this track’s every detail on page 58.

RAKIURA TRACK: STEWART ISLAND IS HEAVEN FOR KIWIS AND KIWI! Stewart Island is the most untouched place New Zealand has to offer. It’s a wild droplet of Aotearoa that has eloped from the mainland but still plays host to the 32-kilometre, long-looped Rakiura Track. Unexpectedly radiant, the trail weaves in and out of verdant forest, dropping into secret beaches lapped by cobalt water. You won’t have to tramp far to find a private sliver of sand, or a preoccupied kiwi rustling in the bush. Stewart Island boasts high numbers of our flightless birds, and better still, they’re tamer than most.

Find out more about this beauty on page 86. Stewart Island’s weather is very changeable and difficult to predict, so check

10

online before stepping out.

ABOVE: Rakiura Track, Stewart Island © Department of Conservation LEFT: Milford Track, Fiordland © Real Journeys

WALKING MUST-DO’S 11

NORTHLAND Rainbow Falls, Kerikeri © Getty Images

Walking Must-Do’s of Northland WALKS

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RAINBOW FALLS WALK & KERIKERI RIVER TRACK

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BAY OF ISLANDS COASTAL WALKWAY

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CAPE BRETT TRACK

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RUAPEKAPEKA PĀ TRACK

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HĀTEA LOOP WALKWAY

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MT MANAIA TRACK

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WAIPŪ CAVES TRACK

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MANGAWHAI CLIFFS WALKWAY

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TOKATOKA SCENIC RESERVE TRACK

10 KAI IWI LAKES COASTAL TRACK

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7 9

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HIGHLIGHTS • The Tutukākā Coast is your launch pad for snorkelling and diving. Poor Knights Island boasts over 125 species of marine life.

• From Langs Beach to the Tutukākā Coast, there are more than 100 fine-sand beaches.

• Whangārei is the seaside city with a resort vibe. The Town Basin is the marina village, a charming spot beside shimmering yachts and

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your go-to for eating and entertainment.

• The impressive Whangārei Falls are a 10-minute drive from Whangārei city.

• Forty minutes from Whangārei city is Matapōuri. Drop into Whale Bay via a remote bush track. This secret beach is graced by few and the snorkelling is excellent.

• The Bay of Islands has 144 dazzling islands.

Book a boat trip to the Hole in the Rock, enjoy a relaxed dolphin cruise or rent a kayak.

• Wander through the country’s oldest European buildings at Kerikeri’s Kororipo Heritage Park, a place where Māori and Europeans once lived side by side.

• Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds where the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed.

RAINBOW FALLS WALK & KERIKERI RIVER TRACK

BAY OF ISLANDS COASTAL WALKWAY

Walkers can stroll for mere minutes to admire the thundering falls, or venture further downriver for 3.5km to see the town basin.

A full-day walking circuit, including ferry links, that goes from Paihia to Ōpua then Ōkiato to Russell, and includes beaches, boardwalks and birdlife.

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TRACK OVERVIEW The Kerikeri River is a cool spot for walking and swimming. The very short walk to the falls with its three lookouts is the perfect spot to take a break and stretch your legs when driving long distances. But if time is on your side, opt for the longer river walk (7km return) which takes you from Rainbow Falls to the town basin.

The bush is alive with birdsong, including tui and pīwakawaka (fantails), as they flit among the kauri and tōtara trees.

Interpretation panels at the falls provide interesting information about the advent of hydroelectricity, an innovation that transformed the region from 1930. Historical remnants of the first station can still be seen today. Be sure to have your swimsuit handy if the weather is warm, as there are many pools for taking a dip; always exercise caution when swimming near waterfalls and be aware of the falls’ power, especially after rain.

Where is it?

Start at Rainbow Falls Rd for the falls, or start at Kerikeri Basin Reserve if doing the full river track.

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Where is it?

Easy walking along well-formed paths, much of it is stroller-friendly.

Start in Paihia in the Bay of Islands, Northland. This trail is wellsignposted with maps available from the information centres.

Good to know

Terrain

Terrain

This trail is part of Te Araroa, the walking path that goes from Cape Rēinga in the North Island to Bluff at the bottom of the South Island.

No dogs, this is a kiwi area 5-10min to Rainbow Falls from car park.

3hr; 7km return for full walk Basic fitness, suitable for all ages Easy walking

Coastal paths, paved sections, boardwalks and a few steps.

No dogs Approximately 6hr; 16km Reasonable fitness required Undulating with a fair few steps

Kingfisher/kōtare © Getty Images

Catch a 40-minute ferry from Paihia or Russell to Urupukapuka Island.

There are various walks to undertake, or you can grab your snorkel and go for a swim. At Otehei Bay the beach café has beanbags and rentable kayaks.

THE KAURI WORKSHOP

TRACK OVERVIEW Set off from Paihia and head towards Ōpua. This leg of the journey takes you along the beach along a well-formed coastal path with views across to Russell. Pass several beaches including Sullivans and Te Haumi. From Te Haumi it’s largely paths through bush, as well as along an elegant boardwalk through mangroves.

It takes about 2.5hr and includes some decent climbs so pack plenty of water. At Ōpua you’ll find shops and bathrooms. Then board the ferry to Ōkiato; they run every 10min. Enjoy the brief break before starting the second leg to Russell. From the ferry, walk uphill for about 10min before turning left onto Pipiroa Rd to walk down to the beach. This segment takes about 3.5hr with a mix of flat and steep segments, notably the steps up through native bush. High above Ōrongo Bay look out for the historic manganese mine site and make sure you have your wallet if you care to stop at the oyster farm. As you walk down to Russell, you may feel like an explorer who has chanced across the most charming historic village where numerous opportunities for refreshing yourself can be found. Stay a night in Russell or take the ferry back to Paihia, where your journey began.

Poor Knights Islands © Getty Images

• Plenty of gift ideas for all budgets.

• Wide range of handcrafted wood made from New Zealand native timbers including kauri, rimu, totara and pohutukawa.

• Overseas shipping available.

• Come on in and see our woodturner at work.

www.kerikeri.co/kauri-workshop 500 Kerikeri Rd, Kerikeri • P: 09 407 9196 • E: kauriw@xtra.co.nz WALKING MUST-DO'S 13

NORTHLAND NORTHLAND TOP SPOTS

CAPE RĒINGA

The Cape Rēinga lighthouse stoically sits and watches the Pacific Ocean collide with the Tasman Sea. The spirits of deceased Māori are said to leap into the waters here to return to their spiritual homeland of Hawaiki. The lighthouse salutes the stretch of land curving south to the giant Te Paki sand dunes – great for tobogganing – and Ninety Mile Beach. © Getty Images

© Whangārei District Council

WHANGĀREI Whangārei is a holiday harbour with seaside cheer and as New Zealand’s most northern city, it’s also the warmest.

Visit the popular Whangārei Falls or embark on the onehour Hatea Walkway around the marina to see a series of Māori stone sculptures. Admire native trees at AH Reed Kauri Park from the elevated treetop walk, or if you’d rather go underground, Abbey Caves are free to explore.

If the weather’s inclement, art galleries are plentiful and Claphams National Clock Museum boasts well over 2000 unusual clocks. When you're hungry, the glistening Town Basin is your go-to for alfresco dining,

BAY OF ISLANDS As picturesque as a children’s storybook, where yellow sand knocks against blue sea and rolling green hills, fiction becomes reality in the Bay of Islands. Secluded beaches saturate the mainland while 144 islands dot its waters. Board the ferry from Paihia or Russell to reach the largest motu, Urupukapuka Island. Alternatively, venture to Roberton Island/Motuarohia Island for its two pristine lagoons or walk to a quartet of beautiful bays on Moturua Island. Chartering a yacht is also popular, dolphin spotting is likely and booking a boat tour to the famed Hole in the Rock is almost obligatory. © Paihia Diving

Explore Waitangi.

Explore two new museums, learn more about our history during the guided tour, watch the carvers, and enjoy an action-packed cultural performance. www.waitangi.org.nz info@waitangi.org.nz 14

• Quality studios & apartments • Access facilities • Quiet and central location • Sea views • Secure bike storage & washdown • FREE bikes/tennis & BBQ • FREE WiFi & internet kiosk 2 MacMurray Rd, Paihia • Ph +64 9 402 6236 Email: info@admiralsviewlodge.co.nz www.admiralsviewlodge.co.nz

Freephone 0800

247 234

4-star architecturally designed boutique accommodation nestled between Paihia and Waitangi on Te Tii Bay. • Perfect for overnight, short term or holiday accommodation, small groups, corporate travellers, team building & wedding parties • Luxury self-contained deluxe king studios & 1 or 2-bedroom apartments. Executive/ honeymoon suite with sea views.

• Sparkling clean, air-conditioned, Sky TV, Free WIFI & BBQ • Quiet location near safe swimming beach

• Walking distance to Waitangi Treaty Grounds • Short drive to Waitangi Golf course, Waitangi Mountain Bike Park and Baylys’ Farm Wedding Venue • Secure bike storage & limited boat parking (must be booked in advance) • Free off-street parking • Conveniently located by supermarket and service station 2 Puketona Road, Paihia | Owners/Operators: Julie & Martin Reservations: P: +64 9 402 8660 | info@gatewaymotel.co.nz | www.gatewaymotel.co.nz

Cape Brett © Getty Images BELOW: Okaihau to Horeke, Utakura River © Twin Coast Trail

LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS

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CAPE BRETT TRACK

One of Northland’s most exhilarating walks, the trail winds and weaves along coastal paths before arriving at a Department of Conservation (DOC) hut, where you’ll find a most elegant 113-year-old lighthouse.

Set off from Rawhiti, Bay of Islands (4hr from Auckland, 40min from Russell) and walk 16km or for a shorter walk, take a water taxi from Russell to Deep Water Cove for a 6km hike.

Terrain

TRACK OVERVIEW Picturesque Cape Brett juts out into the Pacific Ocean at the eastern end of the Bay of Islands. With two ways to attack this walk, you can choose to do the eight- hour, 16km hard way from Oke Bay in Rawhiti or arrange for a water taxi to take you from Russell (or Paihia) and start at Deep Water Cove.

This second option means the walk to the lighthouse will be a much more leisurely two-and-a half-hour walk. Whichever you choose, you will be serenaded by choirs of birds as you wander through regenerating native bush along spectacular undulating coastal paths.

Where is it?

Occasionally you’ll be sheltered beneath mānuka canopies, or on exposed narrow trails, before arriving at the DOC hut.

No dogs

8hr one way from Rawhiti to the lighthouse; 16km or 2.5hr from Deep Water Cove to the lighthouse; 6km.

An A to B walk.

Advanced tramping track

Undulating, sometimes steep, much of it in the canopy of regenerating bush.

Need to know

Paihia is the pulse of the Bay of Islands with a pleasant stretch of golden sand. Grab a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard for a dalliance on the water, or follow the coastline and walk to where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed.

Haruru Falls is reached via a mangrove forest or, if you’re still in the kayak, via the river. Paihia is also excellent for diving and fishing, and anything you catch can be cooked at the town’s premier fish and chip shop, Vinnies.

Catch the ferry to Russell from Paihia, a delightful seaside town just across the water and where colonial history meets esplanade dining. Russell wins the heart of all who visit with its streets of old cottages, fringe of pōhutukawa lining the shore and phenomenal sunsets, not to mention the myriad of top eateries – thanks in part to its abundance of freshly caught seafood.

A permit, available from Russell Info Centre, is required to walk this track. Bookings essential if you wish to stay at the 23-bed DOC hut.

Water supplies Water supplies at the Cape Brett Hut are slightly salty from sea spray. Bring enough drinking water for the walk out to and back from the hut.

WALKING MUST-DO'S 15

NORTHLAND

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WALKING MUST-DO'S 17

NORTHLAND Explore New Zealand’s history on this short, easy walk and see archaeological features such as pits and trenches marking the site of the final battle of the New Zealand Wars in the north.

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HĀTEA LOOP WALKWAY

A pretty urban walk through the Whangārei Town Basin featuring a marina, restaurants, shops, galleries, bridges, parks and playgrounds. To give the walk its full name, the Hātea Loop is also known as Huarahi o Te Whai or the 'Pathway of Opportunity'.

Where is it?

Whangārei Town Basin. This fully accessible loop circles the Hātea River, uniting the basin with William Fraser Memorial Park.

Terrain Almost entirely paved so accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

TRACK OVERVIEW

RUAPEKAPEKA PĀ TRACK 4

Ruapekapeka Pā Gateway © Northland Tourism

Where is it?

30min; 1.5km loop track

From Whangārei, follow SH 1 north for 35km. Just past the Tōwai service station, turn right into Ruapekapeka Rd and follow this for 4km. You’ll see signs for Ruapekapeka and the car park 300m beyond the intersection where Ruapekapeka Rd meets Kawakawa Rd.

Low fitness required Easy walking, suitable for buggies

TRACK OVERVIEW Surrounded by farmland, this loop track starts at the car park and takes you past where the British army had their front line and through sections of native bush. You’ll then pass through the large wooden posts that mark the entrance to Ruapekapeka Pā – a Māori pā designed to be effective as a defence against British muskets and heavy artillery. Today Ruapekapeka is New Zealand’s

best preserved land war battlefield.

The ditch and bank defences, a carronade used by Chief Kawiti and the earthen defences of the British forward position are still visible.

Once you reach the top you’ll be rewarded with expansive coastal views of the Northland region.

1hr; 4.2km loop track Basic fitness required Easy walking Dogs are welcome

Stop and linger awhile; highlights along the track include the Whangārei Art Museum, home of the city's art collection; Reyburn House, the city's oldest house built in the 1870s; the fantastic children's playground and petanque court; and the Claphams National Clock Museum.

No dogs

Ruapekapeka Pā’s combination of trenches and strong palisades made it very effective against assault by muskets and heavy artillery. These palisades consisted of two rows, 3-5m-high, made with pūriri tree trunks and split timber and lashed together and reinforced with protective flax padding. These were separated by a 2m-wide track and surrounded the pā.

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This 4.2km loop is an excellent way to acquaint yourself with Whangārei. Look out for artworks created by local talents including the stone sculpture Waka and Wave at Hihiaua Point, a depiction of a Māori waka (canoe) piercing a towering wave. Reyburn House is Whangārei's oldest house, built in the 1870s; today it’s where you’ll find the Northland Society of Arts. There is also a very sweet playground, complete with a liberty swing for use by visitors in wheelchairs. Stop to read the interpretation panels as you go as all sorts of interesting facts are brought to life. Time your visit to witness the impressive bascule bridge open to admit boats with masts over 6.5m entry to the basin.

Called Te Matau a Pohe, The Fish Hook of Pohe, this extraordinary feat of engineering provides an exciting element to the area while at the other end the Canopy Bridge resembles vast sails.

D T H E W O R SL F A M O U K IE O S K IL L E T C HO E R E !

E D A M IS

0760 | OPEN 7 DAYS FROM 11.30A M 117 BANK ST, WHAN GAREI | PH: 09 430

z

www.jimmyjacksribshack.co.n

Mt Manaia © Fraser Clements

WAIPŪ CAVES TRACK 7

Delve into deep, dark caves tangled with stalagmites, stalactites and glowworms, then re-emerge for a hike through karst limestone formations.

Where is it?

40 minutes south of Whangarei, or 25 minutes north of Waipū Beach off SH1 on Waipū Caves Rd.

Terrain The caves are wet, slippery and a torch and suitable footwear are a must. The track itself is not always well formed and can be muddy.

No dogs, unless you have a DOC permit

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Approximately 1.5hr return; 2km one way (walk only, not including cave exploration)

MT MANAIA TRACK

The bush-clad mountain dominates the landscape and is irresistible to hikers who appreciate a dramatic view.

Where is it?

The track starts just above the car park next to the Mt Manaia Club on Whangārei Heads Rd above McLeod Bay, 28km east of Whangārei.

Terrain Moderate fitness is needed, because of the steady climbing – but it’s a good track and worth the effort. The lookouts have no safety barriers, so stay well away from the drop-offs and supervise children.

On your return, consider heading straight to McLeod Bay for a swim.

No dogs 2hr return; 4km return, via same track Moderate fitness required

Basic fitness, suitable for all ages Steep in parts

TRACK OVERVIEW The Waipū Caves Track is a walk of two halves. It begins at the mouth of the Waipū Caves which are mere steps from the car park and will beckon curious types inside.

Entry to this three-cave system is free but completely at your own risk. There are no guided tracks and wading through mud and water is expected. Inside there are stalactites, stalagmites, a surreal network of limestone shapes and best of all, a metropolis of glowworms.

Follow the underground stream (unsuitable in winter as there will be too much water), creep between low rocks, narrow walls and venture as far as you can.

It is possible to emerge 175m downstream, but most visitors scramble out the way they came. From here you can embark on the actual Waipū Cave Track which climbs steeply out of the valley across open farmland.

There are no further caves to explore but follow the orange flags and 45 minutes later you’ll reach the ridgeline. Panoramic views stretch across the Whangārei Harbour to Bream Head and as far out as the Hen and Chicken Islands.

BELOW: Waipū Caves © Getty Images

Steady and steep climb

TRACK OVERVIEW The track to Mt Manaia’s summit is a steady climb in the shade of regenerated native bush through groves of nīkau palms and kauri stands with glimpses of northern rātā hanging from pōhutukawa. The wide gravel path changes to wooden steps in the steepest parts and stops, occasionally, at lookouts on natural rocky outcrops. Thick native forest blankets the terrain, which rises to peaks and falls to deep valleys in mysterious folds punctuated with steep bluffs.

Close to the 420m-high peak, the gradient gets steeper and views get more impressive. From the top, the vista takes in Whangārei Harbour, the Hen and Chicken Islands, Bream Bay and the Hauraki Gulf.

WALKING MUST-DO'S 19

NORTHLAND

MANGAWHAI CLIFFS WALKWAY 8

A visit to the Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway provides you with breathtaking coastal views that extend from Bream Head in the north down to the Tāwharanui Peninsula in the south.

The Coromandel Peninsula and Great Barrier Island/Aotea can often be seen on the horizon.

Where is it?

Mangawhai is located on the Twin Coast Discovery Highway, 20 minutes from Waipū or 30 minutes from Wellsford. Access to the track is from the Kaipara District Council car park near the Mangawhai Surf Lifesaving Club at the end of Wintle St.

Terrain Moderate fitness is required as this is a steep climb with many steps but persevere and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views when you reach the top.

The track linking Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway and Cove Rd is closed from 1 Sept–31 October for lambing and calving. The coastal section of the track is unformed, rough and rocky. Walk the return loop (8km) along the beach only at low tide – check tide timetables before you go at metservice.com

BELOW: Mangawhai Cliffs Walkway © Getty Images

TOKATOKA SCENIC RESERVE TRACK 9

2-3hr return; 9km via same track Moderate fitness required Steep climb; many steps No dogs

TRACK OVERVIEW The track starts along the beach, then climbs quite steeply for about 20 minutes to a lookout point.

It then winds past ancient pōhutukawa teetering on the sheer slopes before descending to the stony beach below. From here you can walk back along the beach, but only at low tide.

Keep to the marked track as it crosses private property.

From the top the view of the beaches below is amazing, and you can sometimes spot large schools of fish being chased by passing whales or schools of sharks. Once you descend to the beach the reward of a cooling dip is a must before the final journey through the archway formed by a unique rock formation leads you on the home stretch along the sandy beach.

Thrusting up beside the serpentine Wairoa River, this short steep walk provides walkers with impressive views.

Where is it?

Tokatoka Rd, 17km south of Dargaville, Northland.

Terrain Steep, well-formed tracks, slippery after rain.

ABOVE: Tokatoka Scenic Reserve Track © Northland Tourism

No dogs, unless you have a DOC permit 40min return; 700m Medium fitness required Steep walk

TRACK OVERVIEW Stride to the top of Mt Tokatoka for phenomenal 360-degree views of the river, the countryside, Kaipara Harbour and the distant ranges.

Follow the short, steep path up what was once a volcanic plug, the aftermath of an ancient eruption. You’ll feel on top of the world when you summit. Possibly a challenge for those who aren’t comfortable with heights, but well worth the effort. The mountain holds special significance to the people of Ngāti Whātua who believe Tokatoka is one of several mountains that made their way to Aotearoa from Hawaiki. One of the group, Manaia, made its way to the Whangārei Heads while another mountain was drowned in the Waiora River.

Fearful of meeting a similar fate, Tokatoka and neighbouring Maungaraho decided to err on the side of caution and move no further. Back down at river level you’ll find the Tokatoka Tavern, where food and cool beverages can be enjoyed.

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MAJESTIC GIANT TĀNE MAHUTA Waipōua Forest is the domain of New Zealand’s largest living kauri tree, Tāne Mahuta, ‘Lord of the Forest’. This imposing giant has a 13.77m girth, a trunk height of 17.68m and a total height of 51.5m.

Waipōua, plus the adjoining forests of Mataraua and Waimā, make up the largest remaining tract of native forest in Northland. Tāne Mahuta’s nearest challenger is Te Matua Ngahere, ‘Father of the Forest’.

Please help protect our kauri trees from incurable Kauri Dieback Disease by keeping to the tracks, staying away from kauri roots and cleaning your gear before and after visiting.

You can check which tracks are open at www.doc.govt.nz

KAI IWI LAKES COASTAL TRACK 10

Northland’s western coastline is home to Kai Iwi Lakes, a trio of freshwater lakes fringed by ice-white beaches. The largest lake boasts tropical-coloured water, two campgrounds and sand more akin to a Caribbean island. On the east coast, you’ll also find the equally impressive Tāne Moana. As the region’s largest remaining kauri tree, this chap’s over 1000 years old with an 11m circumference. A 40-minute walk will bring you to the foot of his almighty trunk. Carry on for another 90 minutes to reach the sparkling beach at Matapōuri Bay.

TRACK OVERVIEW Start out at Kai Iwi Lakes Rd and follow the exposed coastal track across expansive farmland. Having jumped a few stiles and greeted various livestock en route, you’ll come across the Ripiro Beach lookout.

New Zealand’s longest drivable beach is not the famed Ninety Mile Beach, but instead, remote Ripiro Beach, and at 106km, it is 18km longer than its Ninety Mile rival. The coastal track leads all the way to this near-empty stretch of sand and languid ambles before golden dunes await.

From here, continue north along Ripiro Beach to Aranga Beach Rd (a further 1hr 30min) and step on to the windswept sands of Aranga Beach. Alternatively, you can return via the track you’ve just come and jump back into the water at Kai Iwi Lakes.

As much as it’s near-impossible to peel yourself away from Kai Iwi Lakes, walk across farmland to Ripiro Beach and discover many surprising rewards.

Where is it?

Located 32 minutes north from Dargaville on the west coast of Northland.

Tāne Mahuta, Waipōua Forest © Getty Images

Kai Iwi Lakes one of NZ’s best holiday spots!

Terrain Easy walking along expansive farmland to Ripiro Beach.

30min; 2km one way with the option to continue for a further 1hr 30min; 8.2km one way

Kai Iwi Lakes Camp Northland’s shining jewel 35km from Dargaville.

538 hectares of premier recreation reserve with white sand,

Basic fitness required Easy walking to Ripiro Beach, moderately harder should you continue to Aranga Beach

No dogs ABOVE: Kai Iwi Lakes © Getty Images

freshwater dune lakes and 2 campgrounds.

Perfect for camping, swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, exploring walking and cycling tracks, wildlife & close to surf beach.

• Only 3 hrs from Auckland, 35km from Dargaville • Tent & Campervan sites • Walking and cycling tracks • Water lovers’ paradise • Powered sites available Taharoa Domain, Kai Iwi Lakes & Domain Road, Omamari, Dargaville, Northland

Phone: +64 9 439 0986 • Email: lakes@kaipara.govt.nz On-line Booking: www.kaiiwicamp.nz

WALKING MUST-DO'S 21

AUCKLAND

Walking Must-Do’s of Auckland Auckland © Getty Images

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WALKS

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3

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MT TAMAHUNGA WALKWAY

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TE ARA TAHUNA ESTUARY WALKWAY

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NORTH SHORE COASTAL WALK

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AUCKLAND FORESHORE HERITAGE WALK

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COAST TO COAST WALKWAY

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RANGITOTO SUMMIT TRACK

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WAIHEKE ART WALKING TRAIL

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TE ATATŪ PENINSULA WALKWAY

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HŪNUA FALLS LOOP TRACK

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4 5

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HIGHLIGHTS • There are 48 volcanoes in Auckland and those that stand the tallest are always goading walkers to conquer them.

• Discover white-sand beaches on the east coast and wild black-sand beaches on the west, with many central sandy spots such as Takapuna and Mission Bay just a short skip from the CBD. • Auckland has three celebrated wine regions:

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Matakana, Kumeū and Waiheke Island.

• With 26 regional parks, escapism is easy.

• Nature is always on the doorstep; tip toe through Rangitoto’s lava caves, just a 25-minute ferry ride from the city, or enjoy the CBD’s central pockets of green such as Albert Park and Victoria Park.

• The Hauraki Gulf Islands litter the water surrounding Auckland, each with appeal.

• The Waitākere Ranges Regional Park is just 28km from central Auckland and flush with rainforest and waterfalls.

• You’re never too far from a caffeine fix, slick bar, restaurant or popular shopping spot.

• Commercial Bay opened its doors in 2020 in Auckland’s downtown and features hundreds of food outlets and upmarket retail options.

MT TAMAHUNGA WALKWAY 1

A pleasant walk to the summit of Mt Tamahunga through farmland and forest.

Where is it?

Start at Omaha Valley Rd, Matakana, an hour north of Auckland.

Terrain Private farmland, tramping tracks, sometimes rocky and slippery. Significant mud after rain.

3hr, 5km return Reasonable fitness

Some steep sections

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TE ARA TAHUNA ESTUARY WALKWAY

Skirting the beautiful Ōrewa Estuary, this picturesque pathway offers an easy, flat walk for the entire family.

Where is it?

The walk follows Ōrewa Estuary, a five-minute drive south of Ōrewa town on the Hibiscus Coast.

Terrain Easy, flat and family-friendly.

Good to Know The trail path is shared by both walkers and cyclists.

No dogs

TRACK OVERVIEW

21-PRO-0376

Grassy inclines are framed by pines, palms and pūriri trees. Climb through the groves to a flat section, 437m above sea level. Later, a helipad and trig mark the peak; also the site of Otamahua Pā where 200 Māori prisoners sheltered after escaping Kawau Island.

TRACK OVERVIEW Don’t be alarmed if you hear the shrill of a bicycle bell, the pathway is coshared with cyclists, and when the weather’s good, it’s popular with both walkers and riders. With good reason: this family-friendly walkway is flat, wide and sealed, with plenty to see along the way including Maori carvings, mangroves and crystalline water flecked with kayakers. Follow the water’s edge and explore the natural and historical significance of the area. You’ll pass beautiful homes with spectacular gardens overlooking the estuary, as well as farmland freckled with hay bales. About halfway around, you can stop in Millwater for refreshments and the Estuary Arts Centre is worth a gander, too. Look out for diverse birdlife, and should nature call in a different manner, there are several public toilets en route. In summer, it’s not a bad idea to take swimwear for a post-walk dip in the sea.

Estuary Arts Centre – A Creative Hub

Approximately 1hr 45min; 7.5km return Suitable for all fitness levels Easy walking Dogs are allowed on leash

• Art Exhibitions • Art Classes and Workshops • School Holiday Programmes • Venue Hire • Driftwood Café 214B Hibiscus Coast Highway, Ōrewa • P: 09 426 5570 E: manager@estuaryarts.org • www.estuaryarts.org Find us on Facebook • Open 7 days a week, 9am to 4pm

Unforget t able breaks in undiscovered Auckland

Auckland Council has close to 100 holiday places waiting for you to enjoy. From holiday parks, to baches, camping and glamping.

All within 90 minutes of central Auckland.

Discover a perfect break without breaking the bank.

AUCKLAND COUNCIL HOLIDAY PLACES Learn more or make a booking at aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/holidayplaces ŌREWA, AUCKLAND.

WALKING MUST-DO’S 23

AUCKLAND Part of Te Araroa, this picturesque 23.5km section of that trail can be done in its entirety, from Long Bay to Devonport, or tackled in smaller, bite-sized chunks.

NORTH SHORE COASTAL WALK 3

Where is it?

Start at the Devonport ferry building, or at Long Bay Regional Park.

Terrain Footpaths, easy tramping tracks and coastal sections. The tide will determine if you head further ashore at some points or continue along the shoreline.

Approximately 7hr; 23.5km one way Reasonable fitness required - good shoes are crucial Footpaths, easy tramping tracks & coastal sections Dogs are allowed Takapuna Beach © Getty Images

TRACK OVERVIEW This is a wonderful way to get to grips with the beauty of Auckland’s North Shore without having to penetrate the commercial hubs (although you will find numerous excellent cafés along the way). Departing from elegant Devonport, follow the foreshore before heading up over the crest of North Head towards Cheltenham Beach and Narrow Neck, undulating as you go. With Rangitoto Island constantly on the horizon, continue along the coast past Takapuna and towards Milford and Castor Bay. At low tide you’ll have rock pools to explore as well as a good selection of interpretation panels and relics from World War Two, gun emplacements, tunnels and sites of significance including Rahopara Historic Reserve at Castor Bay. The Mairangi Bay village is popular for lunch with several tasty options; from there press on past Murrays Bay, Rothesay Bay, Browns Bay, Waiake and Torbay before arriving at Long Bay where a swim, if you walk in warmer weather, will be welcome.

Mt Eden Motel

Auckland’s quiet centrally located motel • • • • • • • •

25 fully self-contained units Swimming pool, spa Plenty of FREE on-site parking FREE Continental Breakfast included FREE Wireless internet • Sky TV Close to Eden Park Centrally located on city bus routes Minutes to hospitals, shopping, Expo Centre, museums, zoo, Mt Smart Stadium & Vector Arena • Use your AA Card and receive fuel discount • All major credit cards accepted • Tariff: $130-$160 (2p), extra person $20

For reservations only

0800 RES NOW (737 669) Email: edenres@xtra.co.nz 47 Balmoral Road, Mt Eden, PO Box 96188 Balmoral Auckland 1342 • P: +64 9 638 7187 • F: +64 9 630 9563

www.mtedenmotel.co.nz

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Couple in Britomart at night Š Getty Images

With everything from sandy beaches and rocky bays to modern city wharves and historic commercial zones, this walk reveals how the coast in the city has transformed over the years.

Where is it?

Start at Pt Erin Pools, not far from the Auckland Harbour Bridge on the city side, and end at Parnell Baths in Judges Bay.

Terrain Mostly easy, flat and paved but with steep parts at either end.

Continued on page 26 >

AUCKLAND FORESHORE HERITAGE WALK 4

Open daily from 10am Free entry for Auckland residents Viaduct Harbour, Auckland maritimemuseum.co.nz

Set sail on your own adventure

Enjoy a one-hour harbour cruise aboard heritage vessel TED ASHBY then soak up our seafaring stories in our extensive Museum galleries.

WALKING MUST-DO’S 25

AUCKLAND > Continued from page 25

Downtown Auckland © ATEED

Approximately 3hr one-way, from west to east; 5km

Steep parts at either end

Average fitness required

Dogs on leashes welcome

TRACK OVERVIEW Auckland wasn’t always the mecca of shiny highrises and glittering lights that you see today. Throughout history, transformation came thick and fast, and even though each century brought a wealth of change, little remnants of the past have remained in tact.

Featuring ancient pā sites and old shipyards to modern suburban areas and beaches, this is an excellent walk to get to grips with Auckland’s interesting history. The walk goes through parks, past grand old homes and gardens in St Marys Bay, through land granted to Roman Catholic Bishop Pompallier in the 1850s, past heritage industrial buildings and into the merchant centre of early Auckland. Much of it follows the coastline under the shade of massive pōhutukawa trees, many of which will have witnessed the changes to the city scene over the decades.

This walk is one of the official Auckland City Heritage Walks. Download a PDF of the walk from the Auckland Council website; it is an informative and detailed guide. The walk is also speckled with plaques featuring photographs and information as to how the area once looked, and because this is a self-guided walk, each sign explains how to continue onto the next section.

EXPLORE NATURE AT AUCKLAND BOTANIC GARDENS Enjoy native forest on the Puhinui Stream Forest trail Winding through babbling streams and nīkau palm groves, this trail links Auckland Botanic Gardens and Tōtara Park.

The full trail is a 4km loop (approx.

2 hours at a leisurely pace) with shorter walk options available. Head up to the visitor centre at Auckland Botanic Gardens to pick up a brochure then hit the trail!

Bring a picnic to enjoy on the trail or grab a bite at Café Miko in our visitor centre.

FREE ADMISSION | OPEN DAILY Auckland Botanic Gardens, 102 Hill Road, Manurewa, Auckland | Phone: 09 267 1457 aucklandbotanicgardens.co.nz

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20 MINS from Auckland airport or city

TRACK OVERVIEW

COAST TO COAST WALKWAY 5

One Tree Hill © Getty Images

Sixteen kilometres of urban walking. Start downtown at Princes Wharf and, as the name suggests, march all the way to the other side of the narrow Auckland isthmus to arrive in Ōnehunga on the Manukau Harbour.

Where is it?

Waitematā to Manukau, Central Auckland to South Auckland. Start at Auckland’s Britomart Train Station or walk the other way by starting in Ōnehunga.

Terrain

Britomart features huge glass domes peering down at the train tracks below, and historic buildings frame its central, paved courtyard, in between high-end shops and slick cafés. Come nightfall, plush bars blossom and nearby Snickel Lane offers a trendy food precinct. On Saturday and Sunday mornings, La Cigale French market pops up between 8am and 1pm and a secret New York-style cocktail bar called Caretaker can be found down hidden steps on Customs St.

Part of Te Araroa, the walkway that travels the length of New Zealand, this is a great way to get a sense of Auckland City’s heart. Winding its way through pretty suburbs and city parks, you’ll also ascend several of Auckland’s famous volcanic peaks including Maungawhau Mt Eden and Maungakiekie One Tree Hill, where the views are magnificent.

Other highlights include the 200acre Auckland Domain and Albert Park beside the university. Discover Auckland’s history and geology while rubbing shoulders with the locals, but do take some provisions as there are portions of the route that aren’t well served with places to eat and drink.

Wherever you finish, you’re close to trains and transport to make your way to wherever you need to be next.

Dogs on leashes welcome 5hr; 16km Reasonable fitness required

City streets, parks and bush tracks.

Emerging from the sea approximately 600 years ago in a series of fiery volcanic explosions, pest-free Rangitoto Island is the youngest volcano in New Zealand.

Rangitoto Summit Track © Todd Eyre / ATEED

Where is it?

Take a 25min ferry ride from Queens Wharf in Auckland City.

Terrain Moderate fitness is required for the gradual and steady incline to the top. Good footwear is

RANGITOTO SUMMIT TRACK 6

TRACK OVERVIEW This is an easy climb through pōhutukawa forest and lava fields to a peak 260m above sea level. When you reach the summit of

advised if you’ll be exploring the lava fields, as some areas can be uneven.

Other Tracks…

Lava Caves Track

and trees including the largest pōhutukawa forest in the world,

15min one-way from Summit Track; 1hr one-way from Rangitoto Wharf; 1hr 45min one-way from Rangitoto Wharf to lava caves to summit.

which provides a home for dozens of shore, sea and forest birds.

Wilson Park Track

After Rangitoto was declared pest-free in 2011, forest and other

1hr 45min from Rangitoto Wharf; 45min from Summit Track turn-off to summit.

this volcanic island, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf. You’ll walk on well-formed paths through lava fields that support over 200 species of moss, plants

native birds have flocked back to the island and their birdsong will accompany you as you explore this special place.

2hr return; 7km return, via same track Moderate fitness required Moderately steep No dogs

WALKING MUST-DO’S 27

AUCKLAND

WAIHEKE ART WALKING TRAIL 7

Oneroa Beach © Getty Images

TRACK OVERVIEW Start this easy but picturesque walk as soon as you alight the ferry at Matiatia terminal on Waiheke Island. Stroll along the foreshore to the Atawhai Whenua bush reserve track. A trail of shady forest emerges 15-minutes later on the main road where you can then nip into Alison Park. Overlooking Blackpool valley, the fields are scattered with sculptures from bygone Sculpture on the Gulf exhibitions. Opposite Alison Park is the Artworks Centre, featuring Whittaker’s Musical Museum, the Waiheke Community Art Gallery, complete with its gorgeous gallery

shop, and arguably the island’s finest piece of architecture: the local library. Amble on to Oneroa village where you’ll find the Toi Gallery. The venue is owned by two artists and is brimming with dramatic installations and contemporary sculptures. Don’t miss the amazing Tivoli Art Gallery which is also a specialist bookstore.

From here, drop down to Oneroa Beach and walk over the rocks to Little Oneroa Beach (low tide only).

Check out John Freeman’s ancient kauri sculpture studio or sit and rest on the sand.

Although Waiheke Island is only a 40-minute ferry ride from the city, be warned, once there you may not want to leave! Stunning beaches, renowned wineries, top-quality restaurants, olive groves, cafés, boutique shopping, galleries, walking trails and even some historic sites to explore – it’s easy to understand its popularity.

A relaxed 3km family-friendly amble which offers plenty of stops at sandy bays, art spots and lookout points.

Where is it?

Dogs permitted but must be kept under control

The north-west coast of Waiheke Island. Accessed via a 40-minute ferry trip from downtown Auckland.

2hr one way; 3km

Terrain

Suitable for all fitness levels

A relaxed trail through natural bush, park and wetland using wellformed pathways. Some coastal and roadside walking is required, with mild inclines.

Easy walking

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TE ATATU PENINSULA WALKWAY 8

HŪNUA FALLS LOOP TRACK

Where is it?

233 Falls Rd, Hūnua Ranges. About 50km from downtown Auckland.

This is a pleasant urban stroll. Do the full loop or drop in anywhere along the 6.2km loop to enjoy nature, views, fresh air, birdlife and playgrounds.

1hr; 4km

Where is it?

Basic fitness required

Te Atatū Peninsula, Orangihina Park, West Auckland.

Terrain

Easy walking

Boardwalks, concrete paths, gravel.

Would suit sturdy strollers.

TRACK OVERVIEW Following the eastern edge of the family-friendly suburb of Te Atatū Peninsula, enjoy spectacular views across the Waitematā Harbour to the North Shore, the Chelsea Sugar Factory, Auckland Harbour Bridge, and all the way to Rangitoto Island.

Starting at Orangihina Park (or wherever suits you) follow the path along the waterfront where walkers with a fondness for birds will want to keep their eyes out for fernbirds, dotterels, oyster catchers, godwits, herons and all sorts of seagulls.

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Pretty and undemanding, this is a good walk for younger visitors who like to take things slowly, stopping at picnic tables, playgrounds, the pony club and toilets en route.

Native planting is flourishing here and just a short way off the path you’ll find several excellent cafés where you can refuel. Cyclists are also welcome on much of the path, with the general philosophy ‘share with care’.

Dogs welcome on a leash

Good to know The park has three mountain bike trails, several other heartier walks and 10 camping grounds.

© ATEED

Need to know Swimming is not recommended at the falls.

TRACK OVERVIEW There’s something truly majestic about a thundering waterfall and the 30m Hūnua Falls is one of the most popular cascades in the greater Auckland region. Take the short track that follows the Wairoa River, walking through dense forest until you get to the lookout platform at the waterfall.

The Hūnua Ranges are also an excellent spot for bird watching; keep a look out for the kōkako as this is one of the few places in Auckland to see this rare bird.

Because this is an extensive kauri area, be sure to give your footwear a good scrub upon entering and exiting the area to help prevent the spread of kauri dieback.

20min; 800m Low level of fitness required Easy walking No dogs

Waiheke Backpacker Hostel Auckland Council’s Waiheke Backpacker Hostel is the perfect place to explore Waiheke from. Enjoy the many walking tracks, beaches, cafes, restaurants and our amazing views over Onetangi Beach.

We have a range of rooms, BBQs and free Wi-Fi. Discover a perfect break without breaking the bank.

AUCKLAND COUNCIL HOLIDAY PLACES

Onetangi Beach, Waiheke Island

21-PRO-0376

Learn more or make a booking at aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/holidayplaces

WALKING MUST-DO’S 29

THE COROMANDEL, BAY OF PLENTY & EASTLAND

Walking Must-Do’s of The Coromandel, Bay of Plenty & Eastland Mt Maunganui beach, Tauranga © Bay Of Plenty Tourism

1

WALKS

2

3 4

1

COROMANDEL COASTAL WALKWAY

2

CATHEDRAL COVE WALK

3

KAUAERANGA KAURI TRAIL (PINNACLES WALK)

4

KARANGAHAKE GORGE HISTORIC WALKWAY

5

MT MAUNGANUI (MAUAO) SUMMIT WALK

6

NGĀ TAPUWAE O TOI WALKWAY

7

LAKE WAIKAREMOANA TRACK

8

COOKS COVE WALKWAY

5

6

8

7

HIGHLIGHTS • Walk in the footsteps of gold-mining pioneers in Waihi and follow the Pit Rim Walkway to an enormous open-air mine akin to a giant crater.

• Families love the one-hour train journey through lush Coromandel mountainside on-board Driving Creek’s small-scale locomotive.

• Gisborne is famed for its wineries and Rere Rock Slide, a 60m natural waterslide just 30-minutes from the town centre.

• Discover East Cape’s Tolaga Bay Wharf. Jutting 660m across shimmering water, it’s the country’s longest.

• In The Coromandel, venture to Cathedral Cove, dig a DIY jacuzzi at Hot Water Beach, jump on a Whitianga boat cruise, or sink into the heated pools at The Lost Spring geothermal resort.

• Swing bridges, gold mines and tunnel walks...

Karangahake Gorge near Thames is a mustdo.

• Mt Maunganui is a sight for sore eyes, with a gorgeous golden beach and lively café scene.

• Walk the gruelling (yet gratifying) 700 steps to East Cape Lighthouse.

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• In the Bay of Plenty, Ōhope Beach glistens and secluded Otarawairere Bay is accessible only by foot or kayak.

• Eastwoodhill Arboretum boasts the largest and most comprehensive collection of northern hemisphere trees south of the equator.

COROMANDEL COASTAL WALKWAY

Fletcher Bay © Getty Images

1

Stride 10km of glorious coast and bush tracks across the northern end of the Coromandel Peninsula.

Where is it?

Start at Stony Bay, about an hour from Colville township, heading towards Fletcher Bay.

Terrain

Coastal bush paths with some steep sections.

Good to know

If you want to make it an overnight adventure, there are DOC campgrounds at Stony and Fletcher bays; if you don’t wish to carry a tent, there’s a backpackers at Fletcher Bay. Many rental car firms don’t insure beyond Colville, but there are several shuttle services and tour operators who can assist you on this walk.

Continued on p.32 >

3.5hr; 10km one way Reasonable fitness required Some steep sections No dogs

OTAUTU BAY FARM CAMP

Sweet as, bro!

Brush up on your Kiwi lingo at the Whiritoa Store and Café, 15 minutes south of Whangamata. Burger options include the ‘yeah nah’ and ‘choice aye’.

Afterward, enjoy a postburger nap on Whiritoa Beach or walk a further 15 minutes to Waimama Bay where the sand is white and deserted.

ON THE POHUTUKAWA COAST

Whiritoa General Store © DWB

no noise, no stress, no worries • Spectacular views and harbour‑front location • Great venue for weddings and conferences • Surrounded by a farm • Cabins available, ideal for fishing groups or backpackers • Free kayaks, swimming pool, BBQ, games room, nature walks, fishing etc • Tariff: from $40-$250pp per night. Seasonal rates apply. 7 fully s/c cottages $120‑$150 per night. Bunkroom for larger groups sleeps 23, & Backpacker Cabins from $40pp per night. Campsites from $20pp per night. 2‑brm log Te Kouma Harbour Cottages house with private swimming pool $250 (2p).

SH 25, Coromandel Ph/Fax: +64 7 866 8747 Email: tekouma@xtra.co.nz www.tekoumacottages.co.nz Reservations: 0800 777 027 Hosts: John & Rose Deane & Family

• A family friendly camp at beautiful Otautu Bay bordered by a working farm on the northern picturesque Coromandel Peninsula.

• Beautiful sandy beach, great fishing, safe swimming, ideal for walking or relaxing • Power & tent sites • Unit & lodge • Laundry, hot showers, toilets, freezer, bait & ice • Tariff: camping $16 per adult per night, children (5-14 yrs incl) $8 per night per child. $8 per night extra for power. Units & lodge seasonal rates apply Prices subject to change.

Port Jackson Port Charles

Otautu Bay Farm Camp

Little Bay Colville

Coromandel

www.otautubaycamp.co.nz OTAUTU BAY FARM CAMP 257 Port Jackson Rd, Colville

Ph/Fax: +64 7 866 6801 Email: otautubaycamp@xtra.co.nz

WALKING MUST-DO’S 31

THE COROMANDEL, BAY OF PLENTY & EASTLAND > Continued from p.31

Hot Water Beach © Graeme Murray/Tourism NZ

TRACK OVERVIEW

From the moment you start driving these narrow coastal roads along pōhutukawa-fringed bays, you’re deep into some spectacular scenery. This walk offers all manner of delights from regenerating native forest, dense bush, farmland and rocky coastlines. The views across the sweeping ocean go all the way to Aotea, Great Barrier Island to the north, to Cuvier Island out to the east and all the way up to Mt Moehau at the tip of the peninsula. The gradient of the lovingly tended paths is mostly gentle but be prepared for a few steep sections, notably on the way to Poley Bay. Fantail Bay and Port Jackson with its pretty sandy beach are essential photo op stops, although the numerous wee coves are all very beautiful. Arguably one of the most beautiful short walks in New Zealand.

Coromandel countryside © Getty Images

HOT WATER BEACH Hot tubs and sea views are the forte of five-star hotels, right? Not so in The Coromandel. In these parts, such luxuries are compliments of Mother Nature.

This is kiwi country. If you stay a night, you’ll almost certainly hear kiwi and possibly even see some.

BOOK

DIRECT FOR BEST PRICES

Hot Water Beach is one of New Zealand’s most popular natural wonders. For two hours either side of low tide, digging out a hole in the sand will allow naturally hot water to fill your own, private jacuzzi.

With the sea just inches away, the views from your home-made spa are stupendous – and free! If you’re planning on a swim in the surf, be aware that there are dangerous rips here. It’s best to stick between the flags when lifeguards are on duty.

Harbour View Motel Coromandel

Whether you are coming for business or pleasure our aim is to make it a memorable one.

We offer Studio & 2-bedroom units at reasonable rates all with well-equipped kitchens.

Other features include 50+Sky TV Channels – Free WiFi – Private outdoor spa pool – Air-con/Heat Pump – BBQ area – Fish filleting area and plenty of off-street parking for boats, buses and trucks.

Our unique style of hospitality has turned many of our guests into regular guests.

We look forward to being your hosts! Dave & Janeen

The shops, cafés and restaurants are only a short stroll away.

Quality accommodation with Certificates of Excellence and great reviews.

365 Kapanga Rd, Coromandel Town • Ph: +64 7 866 8402 Email: corocourt@xtra.co.nz • www.coromandelcourtmotel.co.nz 32

• Peace & quiet • Private deck • Spa pool • Free WiFi • Overlooking harbour • Kayaks & bike use • 6 spacious self-contained units • All units have SKY Guest Select & air-conditioning/heat pumps • Continental breakfast available

ok or Bo ct f ates e R Dir est B

The quiet and peaceful location makes it a popular place to stay.

Harbour View units have views with a deck

25 Harbour View Rd, Coromandel Ph/Fax: +64 7 866 8690 E: harbourviewmotelltd@xtra.co.nz

Visit: www.harbourviewmotelltd.co.nz

2

CATHEDRAL COVE WALK

Cathedral Cove arch © Getty Images

NEW CHUMS BEACH

© Destination Coromandel

A stunning coastal walk in The Coromandel, featuring some of New Zealand’s finest scenery.

Where is it?

Grange Rd, 2km from Hahei or 35km from Whitianga.

Terrain Coastal paths, handrails in places, steep at times.

Good to know Car parking here can be difficult in the height of summer.

Continued on p.34 >

Average fitness required Undulating with some steps No dogs

A little effort is required but emerging from woodland onto New Chums Beach is like discovering a tropical island. Clear blue water and gold sand welcomes all those who tackle the 30-minute walk. Park at the end of Mangakahia Dr in Whangapoua and clamber over the rocky headland before picking up a track that drops on to the heavenly beach.

Reservations:

IDEAL FOR FAMILIES • Family park with mature trees opposite estuary beach • Walk to shops, cafés and restaurants • Swimming pool, kayak hire, playground, WiFi, BBQs, indoor dining, kitchen, laundry, TV room, and dump station • Large sites ideal for campervans, caravans and tents, and cabins and self-contained units Tariff: (2 persons) $40-$185

90min return; 2.5km

Harbourside H O L I DAY PA R K

PENINSULA 0508 887 755

MOTEL

• 14 ground-floor units: 4 x 1-bedroom, 2 x-2 bedroom, 3 x deluxe with spa baths, 5 x new studio units (no spa bath) – 2 with wheelchair access.

• Boat parking.

• Can assist in booking any activity you would like to go on.

135 Albert St, Whitianga • Ph: +64 7 869 5152 • FOR BEST PRICES BOOK DIRECT www.harboursideholidaypark.co.nz • Email: harboursideholidaypark@gmail.com

Newly refurbished 2020

• Close to activity departures.

• 2min walk to town, restaurants & cafés.

• Kiwi owned and operated – for a real Kiwi experience.

• Tariff: (2p) $120-$240, depending on time of year.

93-97 Albert St, Whitianga WiFi & Flatscreen Ph: +64 7 866 5607 • info@peninsulamotel.co.nz www.peninsulamotel.co.nz TVs

WALKING MUST-DO’S 33

THE COROMANDEL, BAY OF PLENTY & EASTLAND > Continued from p.33

KAUAERANGA KAURI TRAIL (PINNACLES WALK) 3

TRACK OVERVIEW

Because this track is largely all downhill as it heads to the coast, getting there is easier than returning - but it is worth making the effort. After about 10 minutes walking, look for a sign that points to Gemstone Bay; there you’ll find a popular snorkel trail with information panels on buoys that tell you more about what you’re seeing in the water. If snorkelling isn’t on your agenda, keep walking for a further 20 minutes to a sign pointing to Stingray Bay; follow that direction to enjoy the clear waters and stingrays or keep on walking directly to Cathedral Cove, said by many to be one of the most beautiful beaches in The Coromandel. Gaze at the view through the famous rock archway Te Hoho Rock, one of the most photographed outlooks in New Zealand. Be sure to wear sensible shoes, and if it’s summer take sunscreen, drinking water and your swimsuit.

WHITIANGA Holiday mode starts now. Kick back and enjoy the café culture in Whitianga town centre, then book a boat excursion to Mercury Bay or hire an e-bike, take it on the 10-minute ferry between Whitianga and Ferry landing, and zip up the coast to Hahei Beach and Cathedral Cove. No bike? No worries. Enjoy the walk to secluded Cooks Beach, just 40 minutes each way. Later, stroll along the esplanade at Buffalo Beach and venture to The Lost Spring, where all-natural hot lagoons are fed from water sources 667m below the ground. If you have family in tow, children love the petting zoo at Whiti Farm Park and Mill Creek Bird and Animal Encounters is just 10 minutes out of Whitianga with a huge range of exotic and native birds.

Beautiful sweeping views, fascinating history and extraordinary native forest.

Where is it?

In the Kauaeranga Valley, 13km east of Thames.

Terrain Bush tracks, rock steps, swing bridges, ladders.

Good to know The Kauaeranga Visitor Centre is an excellent place to find information on track conditions, watch an audio visual display and visit the built-to-scale model of a kauri dam.

No dogs

1-2 days Good fitness level required Challenging walk

Sunset at the Pinnacles © Destination Coromandel

TRACK OVERVIEW From the 1870s to the 1920s, this peaceful forest echoed with the sound of intense milling, as regal kauri giants were felled for the growing nation. Today visitors can follow the old packhorse tracks that took supplies to the loggers.

Walking through bush canopy and regenerating forest, hikers will see giant stumps, remnants from impressive kauri dams and tramlines, while the views from the towering Pinnacles (759m) are the highlight of the trail. You will need to put in some serious effort but the reward will be stunning views across The Coromandel and out to the east coast. Choose between walking there and back on the Webb Creek Track (6-8hr return) or take the Billy Goat Track (8-10hr) and make a loop. This ruggedly spectacular walk is one of the country’s most popular overnight adventures.

G E O -T H E R M A L P O O L S , D AY S P A & D I N I N G

Escape to The Lost Spring

Escape to The Lost Spring

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Geo-Thermal Pools W H ITIANGA’S G EO –TH E R MAL OAS I S

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Book Now www.thelostspring.co.nz +64 (07) 866 0456 www.thelostspring.co.nz

The Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand

121A Cook Drive, Whitianga 3510, The Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand

Tuscany on Thames Supervised children 14 years & over welcome Supervised children 14 years & over welcome

Studio, 1 & 2-bedroom units. All units have hush glass, heat pumps/air-con, cooking facilities, dbl spa baths (except 2 access units), free high-speed fibre WiFi, 50+ SKY. Pool, free parking, guest laundry and bike storage. Being environmentally friendly is very important to us.

Tariff: $162-$222 (2 persons) BOOK DIRECT FOR BEST RATES 200 Jellicoe Cres, SH 25, Thames • P: +64 7 868 5099 • Reservations: 0800 559 560 E: tuscanyonthames@xtra.co.nz • www.tuscanyonthames.co.nz

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4

KARANGAHAKE GORGE HISTORIC WALKWAY TRACK OVERVIEW Cross the swing bridge and then start exploring the trails. At 2.5km, the Rail Tunnel Loop is 90min of easy walking, starting at the Ohinemuri River and passing through native bush with two notable man-made marvels, the Crown Battery Site stamper, built in 1892 for crushing quartz, and an 1100m tunnel. The Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway is 7km, 4hr return, another easy walk that also follows the river with old gold-mining relics providing an archaeological atmosphere.

This walkway includes three bridges, a waterfall, smooth river rocks and many swimming spots. The Windows Walk is 2km return with secret tunnels and those eponymous windows cut through rock to look out to the river. You’ll find numerous information panels which really help bring history to life.

Choose between short strolls, or a four-hour walk through this stunning, historic gorge.

Karangahake Gorge ore cart © Kaimai Heritage

Where is it?

Set between the old gold-mining towns of Waihi and Paeroa, between the Coromandel and Kaimai ranges.

Terrain Rocky paths, bush tracks, riversides, old rail corridors.

Take care The Hauraki Rail Trail cycleway shares some of these paths, so keep your eyes and ears out for bikes. And take a torch for the tunnels.

45min loop; 2.5km or 4hr loop; 7km Walk to suit every fitness level Easy walking Dogs on a lead permitted

Sapphire Springs Holiday Park & Thermal Pools Family-owned holiday park. 32ha native bush haven with stream. Choice of motel units, camp sites, bungalow, lodge and cabins. Motorhomes welcome.

Features: Warm thermal pools and hot tubs, playground, BBQs, camp store and more. 5km from Katikati at foot of Kaimai Ranges. Come for the day and play, or stay for a relaxing holiday.

Tariff: Camping from $20. Lodge/cabins from $60. Motels from $130 (2 persons). Bungalow from $360 (12 persons). Check website for day rates.

274 Hot Springs Rd, RD 2, Katikati Ph: +64 7 549 0768 Email: info@sapphiresprings.nz www.sapphiresprings.nz

Pacifica Golf

Katikati

To Tauranga

Sapphire Springs

EXPERIENCE WAIHI GOLD DISCOVERY CENTRE & VISIT KARANGAHAKE GORGE • Newly refurbished • Comfortable, quiet, double-glazed windows and closest motel to town centre • Secure lock-up for bicycles • Wireless internet in each unit • FREE WiFi • Fully air-conditioned units • Walking distance to restaurants, cafés and shops

INCLUDING SPORTS & MOVIES

a To gakak Karan Town Centre

To Whangamata

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Ke

t on m se d R

2 Tauranga Rd, SH 2, Waihi Ph: +64 7 863 8095 Email: info@waihimotel.co.nz

Martha Mine

Ro

Tariff: from $110

www.waihimotel.co.nz

St

Waihi Motel To Tauranga

WALKING MUST-DO’S 35

THE COROMANDEL, BAY OF PLENTY & EASTLAND Mt Maunganui © Bay of Plenty Tourism

MT MAUNGANUI (MAUAO) SUMMIT WALK 5

This perennial favourite is a short yet hearty hike to the 232m summit.

Where is it?

Start at the Mt Maunganui Surf Life Saving Club at the base of the mountain in the Bay of Plenty.

40min to reach 232m peak

Terrain

Reasonable fitness required Steep walk

Well-maintained bush paths, some shingle and quite a few steps if you choose the steeper, quicker Waikorire track.

No dogs TRACK OVERVIEW No trip to Mt Maunganui is complete without a walk to this summit. Two of the most popular tracks are Oruahine and Waikorire and both begin at the base of the mountain on the ocean side, starting at the boardwalk just beyond the

Surf Life Saving Club. Māori for ‘big mountain’, the walk up Maunganui, or Mauao, is challenging, but the views when you reach the peak make every drop of sweat worthwhile.

Catch your breath while gazing out upon the entire western Bay of

Atlas Suites & Apartments

0800 555 353

Contemporary-styled, self-contained, fully equipped apartments. Spacious 1, 2 and 3-bedroom with wheelchair access and elevator.

Free WiFi • free parking • SKY 50+ channels • smokefree complex Only 300m from beaches, harbour, Mt Drury, playground, shops, restaurants, cafés, Mt Maunganui and thermally heated pools.

Plenty, south along the white sandy beaches of Papamoa, north toward the shores of Waihi and Bowentown and over to the port and Matakana Island. You can walk these trails any time of day, although sunrise and sunset are most popular. Māori also

For those not inclined to tackle the incline, Mauao also boasts a scenic, 3.5km mostly flat walkway around its base. Drink up the non-stop ocean views and then celebrate your lap with a coffee at one of the bustling beachside cafés. Mt Maunganui is a resort-like town with an array of restaurants, shops and bars.

know the mountain as Mauao which means ‘caught by the dawn’. And if you feel like you’ve earned a reward, once you return to sea level, why not treat yourself to an ice cream, a soak in the hot pools, or if the season suits, a swim in the surf?

Mt Maunganui town © Getty Images

6 Adams Ave, Mt Maunganui T: 07 575 3805 Email: calais@xtra.co.nz Perfectly located at the foot of Mt Maunganui. 25 self-contained & serviced apartments. In-house restaurant & bar – Mount Bistro. Close to cafés, shops & beach. Sky TV, DVD. Secure underground parking. Tariff: from $120. Seasonal rates may apply.

Check out our monthly website specials

Tariff: $140-$450. Seasonal rates apply. Corporate and long-term rates available.

49 Maunganui Rd, Mt Maunganui P: +64 7 575 5802 F: +64 7 575 5801 E: atlasapartments@xtra.co.nz

www.atlasatthemount.co.nz

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www.calais.co.nz • Reservations: 0800 422 524

TOP PICKS

BAY OF PLENTY HIGHLIGHTS Tauranga town © Bay of Plenty Tourism

Mt Maunganui © Getty Images

TAURANGA When you’re all beached-out, Tauranga steps in to entertain.

It’s a great year-round destination, with an eclectic mix of restaurants and cafés, museums, galleries, parks and gardens. Don’t miss the Tauranga Art Gallery, with its modern façade and provocative artworks. Playful sculptures at Te Puna Quarry Park fascinate both adults and children alike, while the city’s historic village on 17th Avenue West is an enclave of modern shops in vintage buildings. For active pursuits, McLaren Falls Park is a 20-minute drive from Tauranga with walkways, a waterfall and kayaking on Lake McLaren, which leads to Mangapapa Canyon, a narrow ravine.

Hot pools, Mt Maunganui © Bay of Plenty Tourism

MT MAUNGANUI Come rain or shine (and it always seems to be shining here) there’s an energy in Mt Maunganui that you just can’t ignore. Split by a huge sandbar, with incredible surf on one side (Main Beach) and a sheltered swimming bay on the other (Pilot Bay Beach), the town’s good looks are only enhanced by its focal point, Mauao. Make time to go up, down and around this extinct volcano: the 360-degree views from the top are magic. Rewards for your physical exertion come in the form of waterfront cafés at the bottom, and the Hot Salt Water Pools at its base.

www.oceanwaves.co.nz

74 Marine Pde, Mt Maunganui Ph/Fax: +64 7 575 4594

74 Marine Parade

• Across from safeswimming harbour beach

• 7 ground-floor units, 2 upstairs with harbour views. Full kitchen,

• Walking distance to hot pools, main surf beach, shops, cafés etc

• Comfortable spacious units with parking

• Pets by arrangement

• Tariff: $130-$210 (2 persons). Seasonal rates

P: +64 7 575 4753 | E: info@westhavenmotel.co.nz | www.westhavenmotel.co.nz

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WESTHAVEN MOTEL

27a The Mall, Pilot Bay, Mount Maunganui

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RESERVATIONS: 0800 743 019

Sites from $45, cabins from $95 (1-2 persons).

Seasonal rates apply.

ADAMS

BOOK DIRECT! • Beachfront on Marine Parade For Best Price, • Walking distance to CBD & hot pools Beachfront Motel • Choice of motel units Mount Maunganui • Self-contained accommodation • Units with superb ocean & island views • Free WiFi • Heat pumps/air-conditioning in all units • Short walk to cafés & Mount summit walk

Situated at the base of the mountain (Mauao) on both ocean & harbour beaches, next to boat ramp, cafés & the hot salt-water pools. Popular family park.

Ideal for schools & groups.

1 Adams Ave (at the base of the Mount), MOUNT MAUNGANUI Ph: 07 575 4471 • Fax: 07 575 4476 • Email: info@mountbeachside.co.nz

RESERVATIONS: 0800 682 3224 • www.mountbeachside.co.nz WALKING MUST-DO’S 37

THE COROMANDEL, BAY OF PLENTY & EASTLAND An exceptional walkway with impressive views, history, forest, birdlife and coastal scenery.

Where is it?

Walk from Whakatāne to Ōhope, starting at Rex Morpeth Park on Goulstone Rd, Whakatāne.

Terrain There is quite of a bit of climbing, including some sections of steps, but the tracks are well formed, well maintained and well marked. If you do the entire walk you will need stamina, although you can do smaller portions.

No dogs, this is kiwi country 6-7hr; 16km coastal loop Strong fitness required Climbing with steps

TRACK OVERVIEW Starting in Whakatāne, walk along urban paths for the first kilometre before turning onto Kohi Point Track where the uphill starts. At the top take a short detour to Kapu Te Rangi, and look out where you can see Whakaari (White Island) Putauaki (Mt Edgecumbe) and Mt Tarawera, then continue on down towards Ōhope Beach via Otarawairere Beach. This is much easier at low tide.

NGA TAPUWAE O TOI WALKWAY 6

Cruising along the beach for a spell, your next track to look for is the Fairbrother Loop then keep looking for the markers that will take you back to Whakatāne.

During this section there is some impressive forest, as well as some quite demanding climbing.

Once this region was the domain of the great chief Toi, when his empire was centred around KapuTe-Rangi, Pā of Gentle Breezes.

This is one of the oldest pā sites in the country, and it was well chosen as the views make it ideal for defending.

Ngā Tapuwae o Toi

A trail of spectacular scenery, diverse nature and history

whakatane.com 38

Whakatane.nz

Otarawairere Bay © Bay of Plenty Tourism

LAKE WAIKAREMOANA TRACK 7

8

COOKS COVE WALKWAY

Great views, lush farmland, instructive interpretation panels and a good swimming cove makes for an excellent day trip.

2hr 30min; 5.8km return

Where is it?

Medium fitness required

At the southern end of Tolaga Bay, 52km from Gisborne. Take SH 35 and turn off at Wharf Rd.

Some hill climbing

Terrain Well-formed bush paths. Keep to the tracks to avoid coastal bluffs.

No dogs - part on private farmland

Lake Waikaremoana Track © Hawke’s Bay Tourism

TRACK OVERVIEW Nestled within Te Urewera National Park, the Lake Waikaremoana hike is a Great Walk and multi-day excursion that takes in valleys, peaks and lakes.

It can be completed year-round but excels in summer when swimming in the lake proves irresistible.

This unique Great Walk is managed by local iwi (Maori community), the Tūhoe and the land is critical to their turangawaewae (sense of identity).

The mountainous Te Urewera region was the first natural feature in New Zealand law to be recognised as a legal entity in its own right.

Although you’ll predominately skirt the lake’s shoreline for four days, be aware that the route is not a complete circuit.

The changing landscape combines streams, steep ridge climbs, tunnellike forest trails and rolling valleys of beech, podocarp and kāmahi shrub.

All along the route you’ll likely witness a community of fantail, tomtit and kererū, and hear an orchestra of bellbird and tūī. Come nightfall, calls of the North Island brown kiwi trill from the darkness.

Opotiki Holiday Park Accommodation: Relax in a rural setting only 200m walk to Opotiki town centre. Start of the Motu Trail on our doorstep, or we can arrange shuttle services.

Secure lock-up for bikes and group rates available. Choice of self-contained units, kitchen cabins, tent sites & motel units.

The ground beneath your feet is the homeland of the Tūhoe people and very sacred. Keep watch for Patupaiarehe. Māori tradition states these fairy-like people live in misty forest and mountaintops.

Where is it?

Located within Te Urewera National Park, 80km from Gisborne and 163km south of Rotorua.

Terrain The track initially follows the lake edge and is uneven in places.

Some steady climbs follow.

3 – 4 days; 46km one way Moderate to high fitness required

TRACK OVERVIEW After admiring the historic Tolaga Bay Wharf, make your way to the paddock where the walkway begins. Crossing open pastureland, you will climb through low bush, with much of the walk on farm tracks.

After about 20 minutes, you will find the lookout point 120m above sea level, where you’ll catch your first glimpse of Cooks Cove, a pretty sheltered inlet. Look out to the rugged Mitre Rocks that lie to the left of the entrance and Pourewa Island rising up on the right. The winding track then descends through regenerating bush until you reach the coastal flat of the bay. Explore Te Kotere o te Whenua, otherwise known as the ‘Hole in the Wall’, and take a look the New Zealand Historic Places Trust memorial, erected in 1966 to commemorate Captain Cook’s inaugural exploration of Aotearoa in 1769. Ideal for picnics and photography.

Awakeri

HOT SPRINGS The perfect place

to explore the Bay of Plenty

Undulating terrain

No dogs 39 Potts Ave, Opotiki Phone: +64 7 315 6050 Email: opotiki.holidays @xtra.co.nz

Features: Communal kitchen, metered showers, laundry, TV lounge, Freeview TV, Zenbu WiFi, swimming pool, playground and dump station.

Tariff: 2 persons $50-$120, sites from $20, seasonal rates may apply. Visa, Mastercard, EFTPOS.

www.opotikiholidaypark.co.nz

• Spacious play area & bushwalks • Set in established bush setting • Park Motel, tourist flats, cabins, power & tent sites • 16km to Whakatane • Hot Thermal Pools – Free for Guests Tariff: (2 persons) $40-$120, seasonal rates apply

SH 30, RD 2, Whakatane Ph +64 7 304 9117 www.awakerisprings.co.nz WALKING MUST-DO’S 39

CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND

Walking Must-Do’s of Central North Island

Mt Ngāuruhoe © Getty Images

1 2 3

5 4

WALKS 1

HAMILTON LAKE WALKWAY

2

WAIRĒINGA/BRIDAL VEIL FALLS

3

MT PIRONGIA SUMMIT 6 VIA MAHAUKURA TRACK

4

7 RUAKURI WALK

5

BLUE LAKE TRACK

6

GREAT LAKE WALKWAY

7

TONGARIRO NORTHERN CIRCUIT

8

TONGARIRO ALPINE CROSSING

6

7

8

HIGHLIGHTS

40

• Rotorua is New Zealand’s most active geothermal area, with spewing geysers, bubbling mud pools and steaming parks.

• Experience one of New Zealand’s Great Walks: The Whanganui Journey. It’s actually a 145km stretch of water navigated by canoe.

• The gondola, luge, 3D trick art gallery and mind-bending illusion house, Puzzling World, are just some of Rotorua’s family-fun activities.

• Tongariro is New Zealand’s oldest national park and hosts three significant volcanoes: Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngāuruhoe.

• Lake Taupō is roughly the size of Singapore and a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Raglan is a small but lively seaside village with a bohemian flare and countless surfers.

• Witness the monstrous Huka Falls near Taupō.

• Tackle the popular one-day Tongariro Alpine Crossing hike.

• Visit Hamilton Zoo, the city’s excellent Botanic Gardens and Zealandia Tea Estate.

• Delve below Aotearoa at Waitomo, home to an extensive underground network of caves.

• Take a soak in the spa at Te Aroha’s silky mineral hot pools.

• Experience a living Māori village in Rotorua, or the fictional world of Hobbiton just down the road from Matamata.

© Hamilton Gardens

HAMILTON LAKE WALKWAY 1

Balloon over Hamilton Lake © Hamilton Tourism

From gentle strolls to lakeside jogs with dogs in tow, picnics under your arm and bread for the ducks, Hamilton Lake provides an inner-city walk that everyone can enjoy.

Where is it?

In the very heart of Hamilton city and 1.5km from the CBD.

Terrain Flat boardwalks and open pathways with toilets, bins and water fountains.

Good to Know The walkway can be accessed from various points, with the main car parks situated by Ruakiwi Rd and Lake Crescent (Innes Common).

1hr; 3.8km Walk to suit every fitness level Easy walking Dogs on a leash

HOBBITON Take a tour of the film set and sit down for a drink that would quench even a Hobbit’s thirst at Green Dragon™ Inn.

TRACK OVERVIEW Hamilton Lake, or Lake Rotoroa as it’s officially known, welcomes every visitor. A huge playground and waddling ducks are always a big hit with children, while the flat walkway won’t tax little legs.

Over the course of one hour you’ll pass vast, treedotted parkland on the western side and a bustling café and covered picnic area on the east. Dogs are also welcome, although they need to be on a lead.

There is a small off-lead space near the yacht club, and the café’s alfresco area is a favourite hangout for canines. Whether you escape here for an hour or spend the entire day by the water, Hamilton Lake is the ideal option for an easy walk in the heart of Hamilton city.

Hobbiton™ Movie Set © Destination Rotorua

HAMILTON GARDENS Travel the entire world in one afternoon at Hamilton Gardens.

With everything from Italian Renaissance shrubbery to a traditional English garden and Indian Char Bagh Garden, it’s a sensation for the senses. The latest addition is the Surrealist Garden, a trippy, Alice-in-Wonderland-style arrangement.

Better yet, entry is free.

CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND TOP SPOTS Waikite hot pools, Rotorua

© Destination Rotorua

• MATAMATA, the land of the Hobbits

• Rotorua’s awe-inspiring GEOTHERMAL PARKS

• The magnificent, themed HAMILTON GARDENS

• Adrenalin pumping thrills and spills in ROTORUA

• SANCTUARY MOUNTAIN MAUNGATAUTARI

• Take in Rotorua’s 18 STUNNING LAKES

• The WAIKATO RIVER TRAILS for walking/cycling

• Experience a living thermal MĀORI VILLAGE

• The Bohemian surf village of RAGLAN

• ROTORUA FAMILY FUN: gondola, luge, wildlife

• Underground adventures at WAITOMO CAVES

• Explore the immense LAKE TAUPŌ

• Te Aroha’s silky mineral HOT POOLS

• Be wowed by the exhilarating HUKA FALLS

• Ōtorohanga’s KIWIANA displays and Kiwi House

• The pure natural beauty of the UNESCO Dual World Heritage Site – TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK

• Kāwhia’s beautiful HARBOUR and SURF BEACH

WALKING MUST-DO’S 41

CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND An excellent leg-stretcher break for those driving round these parts, the track follows the Pakoka River and leads to elegant falls.

WAIRĒINGA/BRIDAL VEIL FALLS 2

Where is it?

28km from Raglan, turn off at SH 23 and on to Kauroa-Kāwhia Rd and enter the Wairēinga Scenic Reserve.

Terrain The track has been upgraded at the top and includes a wide flat section so wheelchairs and strollers can gain access. To get to the lower viewing platform, follow the wooden steps, covered with mesh to prevent slipping.

Good to know There is a pretty picnic area at the top of the falls and toilets too.

TRACK OVERVIEW An easy walk to an impressive waterfall that plunges 55m into the pool below. Two viewing platforms at the top of the falls, accessible for wheelchairs, provide excellent views across lush tawa forest to rural Waikato. From the bush-lined track stairs descend steeply to a midway viewing point. Carved out by centuries of falling water, the sandstone pools form a natural amphitheatre, while the hard ring of basalt rock is a souvenir from an historic volcanic eruption.

No swimming

Wairēinga/Bridal Veil Falls © Getty Images

No dogs

10min to lookout; 0.5km

WANT MORE?

Basic fitness required

The Karioi Summit Track is a 3.5hr one way, steep yet scenic walk to a volcanic peak, 14km from Raglan.

300 steps to bottom of falls

A private hideaway, just 2 minutes to our beautiful beach walks and 5 minutes to town! Accommodation for groups & individuals.

Karioi is a beautiful walk just 20 minutes drive from town, 3 to 6 hours walk from Te Toto Gorge to Karioi Road, off Ruapuke Road.

Address: 61 Marine Parade, Raglan Phone: (07) 825 8283 • Email: stay@raglanholidaypark.co.nz

www.raglanholidaypark.co.nz 42

Mt Pirongia Summit © Getty Images

© Photographer

4-6hr one way; 9km Strong fitness required

Challenging hike

MT PIRONGIA SUMMIT VIA MAHAUKURA TRACK 3

The Mahaukura Track is a challenging hike to the Mt Pirongia viewing tower, where walkers can congratulate themselves with sweeping scenes of lush Waikato farmland.

Where is it?

Just north of Pirongia, turn off SH 39 onto Te Pahu Rd, then Hodgson Rd, then Grey Rd. There are two car parks, lower and upper; at the latter you’ll find an info kiosk with maps.

Terrain

Waikato Walks

Bush paths, some clay and gravel, steep-sided ridges, rough at times, boggy after rain.

Safety first This mountain can be unpredictable so you need to be prepared for all conditions.

No dogs, this is kiwi and kōkako country Continued on p.44 >

From iconic walks such as the Blue Spring at Te Waihou Walkway or Wairere Falls, to hidden gems like Mangapohue Natural Bridge or Waiorongomai Valley - discover an array of excellent walking and hiking trails in the Mighty Waikato.

waikatonz.com/walking Pirongia Forest Park © Getty Images

WALKING MUST-DO’S 43

CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND TRACK OVERVIEW

TOP PICKS

WAITOMO TOP SPOTS

> Continued from p.43

Setting off from the Grey Rd car park, the trail climbs pretty steadily through forest, including some impressive stands of tawa. Follow the track to Wharauroa Lookout, stop for photography, then press on for another 30min to Mahaukura.

The track undulates as it goes and is often uneven under foot so take special care. From Mahaukura, the track descends a way before climbing towards the Pirongia summit viewing tower which is found 959m above sea level. This track can also be accessed off O’Shea Rd via the Wharauroa Track.

Glowworms at Waitomo Caves © www.hamiltonwaikato.com LEFT: Exploring Mt Pirongia Summit © Mark Hamilton

WAITOMO CAVES The caves you see today have been 30 million years in the making, formed by underground streams carving out silent routes through the limestone rock. The caves include deep caverns, luminescent glowworms and dark waterways, as well as amazing limestone formations. This fabulous subterranean world is both eerie and captivating. Don’t worry, it’s entirely safe and you won’t be alone. Tour guides deliver an informative commentary, sharing natural history and cultural legends.

WAITOMO THRILLS Because Waitomo farmland hides such a big underground playground beneath its fertile, with giant chasms and explorable chambers, local company Waitomo

Adventures will eagerly lead anyone brave enough into this dimly lit lair. A choice of spinetingling trips range from abseils down 60m shafts to ziplining through narrow passageways with stalagmites tickling at your ear lobes.

Daredevils can even tube down an underworld river on pitch-black water.

THE LOST WORLD Dangle your way into a cool underground chamber via a 100m abseil, the highest commercial one of its kind in New Zealand. Led by an experienced guide in groups of four, once you’re in, squeeze, jump and slide your way further into the abyss. If ‘dropping in’ isn’t your jam, there’s staircase access to the Lost World grotto, removing the need to abseil.

One of New Zealand’s great cycling Trails is also one of our great walking Trails

EXPERIENCE NEW ZEALAND’S LONGEST RIVER, THE MIGHTY WAIKATO

An adventure of discovery along New Zealand’s longest river with something new around every corner

TAKE IN THE STUNNING SCENERY ON A RELAXED DAY TRIP OR OVERNIGHT ADVENTURE OUR FRIENDLY EXPERT TEAM HAVE ALL THE INFORMATION YOU NEED Ph 0800 874 978 | www.waikatorivertrails.com | 44

WaikatoRiverTrails1 |

waikatorivertrails

4

RUAKURI WALK

TRACK OVERVIEW

One of the best things to do in Waitomo, this walk features an impressive forest gorge, limestone formations, bridges and a pretty stream.

Where is it?

Four kilometres from Waitomo Village, turn left at the roundabout into Tumutumu Rd, then head to the well sign-posted Ruakuri car park.

Terrain Well-maintained bush paths, some steps.

Good to know Take a torch and do this walk at night when you’ll see glowworms along the banks.

No dogs

Above ground in Waitomo

Setting off from the car park, follow the stream and admire the amazing limestone walls before descending to the trail known as Ruakuri Natural Bridge Walkway.

Walk to a platform that reaches out into a large cavern-like tunnel where you can search for stalactites and stalagmites.

If you want to make the walk longer, start the trail in the Waitomo Village and go along the 3.3km Waitomo Walkway.

Look for a variety of native birds including tūī, pīwakawaka/fantail and kererū, the native wood pigeon.

45min loop; 1km

Once you’ve found what’s lurking beneath Waitomo, resurface for some above-ground exploration.

Mangapohue Natural Bridge is 30-minutes west of Waitomo village and features a 17m-high natural arch over Mangapohue Stream. Allow 20-minutes to walk the 700m loop.

WAITOMO

Exploring the caves in Waitomo © Discover Waitomo

Easy fitness required Easy walking

WOODLYN PARK

Voted as one of the TOP 10 Most Unique Accommodation in the World • Cave unit built into the hill • World War II antisubmarine patrol boat • 1918 steam train • Bristol Freighter Plane • Free WiFi in units • Conference venue for hire

Stay in our Hobbit Motels, Boat, Train or Plane at Woodlyn Park. Unique Accommodation just 2 minutes from the Waitomo Caves 1177 Waitomo Valley Rd, Waitomo Caves. Phone: +64 7 878 6666

www.woodlynpark.co.nz

WALKING MUST-DO’S 45

CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND 5

BLUE LAKE TRACK

Blue Lake © Adrian Hodge

One of the closest lakes to Rotorua, this is a popular spot for walking, swimming and water sports.

Where is it?

Start at the Blue Lake car park at the Lake Tikitapu Scenic Reserve, where you’ll find bathrooms, a playground and barbecues.

Terrain Easy bush paths, a few ups and downs, it can be muddy in winter.

Handy to know There’s a shop, a playground and toilets at the Top 10 Holiday Park.

TRACK OVERVIEW The native bush is filled with birds and the beaches are perfect for picnics.

This is a walk that offers beautiful views and fabulously fresh air and the loop that circumnavigates the lake is perfect for warming up before taking a dip in the cool, clear water. The signage from the car park is excellent; most people set off to the right. Featuring ample quantities of quintessential Kiwi bush and stands of towering trees, this charming trek is popular with locals and out-of-towners, thanks to the quiet sandy beaches and pretty views of the Blue Lake and Green Lake (Rotokakahi). The track features a few stairs, some rocky surfaces and boggy patches after rain; the final leg takes you along the roadside so take special care because the road is narrow. Of course you can go the other way round, in a clockwise direction, thus doing the road section first.

Blue Lake TOP 10 Holiday Park 0800 808 292 723 Tarawera Road Rotorua

bluelaketop10.co.nz

Blue Lake TOP 10 is located to take advantage of 15 beautiful lakes around Rotorua. Walk around Lake Tikitapu and enjoy the view to Lake Rotokakahi. Enjoy a swim in Blue Lake or relax in the parks hot tub.

Motels | Units | Cabins | Sites • BBQ Area • Children’s Playground • Jumping Pillow • Games Room • WiFi • Kayak Hire • Hot Tub

46

A good walk warrants a reward. Feed your stomach at Rotorua’s Eat Streat, a strip of international dining venues, complete with retractable roof and heated flooring, or soak your muscles in mineral water. ‘Secret Spot’ features private cedar hot tubs hidden in the Whakarewarewa Forest.

90min return; 5.5km Basic fitness required Easy bush paths, few ups and downs Dogs on a leash

Where stories of the

TARAWERA ERUPTION

COME TO LIFE

sites Museum - Excavated é Waterfall Trail - Caf Walking in The Redwoods, Rotorua © Destination Rotorua

WALKING IN ROTORUA The Rotorua Walkway links 26km of connected pathways through some seriously scenic areas. It can also be divided into eight shorter segments, with some sections considered more picturesque than others.

Walk across a series of eco-suspended bridges above the forest floor as part of Rotorua’s Redwoods Treewalk. Snaking between 75m-tall redwood trees and sprinkled with enormous wooden lanterns, come nightfall, the forest lights up to magical effect.

Rotorua’s premier accommodation

#BuriedVillage #BuriedVillage

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apartments with full kitchens

• Studio/1-bedroom/ 2-bedroom suites

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• 2-bedroom apartment with ensuite, separate bathroom and laundry • NEW LUXURY studio/1, 2 and 3-bedroom apartments, all

1180 Tarawera Road, Rotorua www.buriedvillage.co.nz

swimming pool, gym, sauna, petanque, mini golf, tennis, spa treatment room, table tennis, conservatories, lift and outdoor games on request

• Free high-speed Fibre WiFi and guest internet station, Smart TV

• ‘Matai Restaurant’ lounge and cocktail bar

• Electric car charging, heated

• Mountain bikes for guest use

YOUR HOSTS :- Paul & Carole Huck

NEW LUXURY SUITES NOW OPEN WALKING MUST-DO’S 47

CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND

GREAT LAKE WALKWAY 65

This combined walking and cycling trail along the shores of Lake Taupō offers picturesque lake and mountain views with plenty of spots for swims, picnics and playground fun.

TONGARIRO NORTHERN CIRCUIT 7

The Tongariro National Park provides the backdrop for your alpine adventure with a landscape of stark contrasts and amazing views at every turn.

Where is it?

Located in the Central North Island, the Tongariro National Park is the closest national park to Auckland. It’s easily accessed from Ōhakune, Tūrangi, Taupō and SH 1. The circular Great Walk starts near Whakapapa Village.

Where is it?

Start at Taupō Boat Harbour, at the intersection of Redoubt St and Ferry Rd or set off from the other end at Five Mile Recreation Reserve.

Terrain Moderate-to-high level of fitness and clothing suitable for alpine conditions required.

Terrain The easy undulating path is mostly paved, making it perfect for strollers, wheelchairs and bikes.

No dogs

TRACK OVERVIEW Also known as The Lion’s Walk, the Great Lake Walkway sets off from the Taupō Boat Harbour, heading in the direction of the Three Mile Boat Ramp. This is a relaxed and scenic track for all ages, and as you head further out of town, the world takes on a most tranquil and picturesque quality and features show-stopping views of Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngāuruhoe. With several places along the way to stop for swims, picnics and ice creams, the walk concludes at Five Mile Bay Recreation Reserve.

3-4 days; 43km Moderate-high fitness required Can be steep at times Season: Late Oct to late Apr Mt Ngāuruhoe © Getty Images

TRACK OVERVIEW Dogs are permitted 2hr one way; 10km one way Basic fitness required Easy walking

Tongariro Northern Circuit is a Great Walk and a loop track that can be walked in either direction.

The track is well marked and signposted, but some sections may be steep, rough or muddy.

Starting at Whakapapa Village, hike to the Mangatepopo Valley. See Pukekaikiore, one of the older vents of the Tongariro Complex of explosion craters, lava flows, and volcanic cones.

On the second day, hike through the valley and then climb up to the Red Crater (1868m) before

descending to the Emerald Lakes and down into the Oturere Valley. The next day follow the track along the foothills of Ngāuruhoe. After crossing the Waihōhonu Stream, continue through beech-forested valley, then climb over the ridge to reach Waihōhonu Hut in the next valley. On the last day, hike alongside the Waihōhonu Stream and up to the Tama Saddle. Take an optional side trip to Tama Lakes, then continue to Whakapapa Village.

Cycling the Old Coach Rd near Ohakune © Visit Ruapehu

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Ohakune TOP 10 Holiday Park

A beautiful bush setting with the mountain stream flowing freely along the Park offering a truly tranquil camping experience.

0800 521 003 5 Moore Street, Ohakune top10.co.nz

Motels | Units | Cabins | Sites BBQ Area • Playground • WiFi • Spa Bath • Spa Pool • Games room • Tongariro Alpine Crossing Shuttle pick up from Park

TONGARIRO ALPINE CROSSING 8

No dogs 7-9hr one way; 19.4km one way Strong fitness required Steep with many steps Tongariro Crossing © Getty Images

TRACK OVERVIEW

W

inding its way past Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngāuruhoe, this walk lets you explore dramatic volcanic landscapes including craters, glacial valleys, native beech forest, alpine meadows and emerald-coloured lakes in the Tongariro National Park World Heritage area.

Taihape Gumboot © Getty Images

Described as New Zealand’s greatest day walk, Tongariro Alpine Crossing features crater lakes, sweeping views and alpine majesty.

This is a walk to do at least once in your life.

Where is it?

Start at either Mangatepopo car park on the west of the mountain or Ketetahi car park to the north.

Terrain The climbs can be steep and the terrain includes gravel, scree, boardwalks, bush and alpine paths.

Need to know This is alpine territory so be prepared for all weather conditions and ensure you have all the essential equipment to handle alpine conditions. Start the walk by 8am or 9am as you do not want to be finishing after dusk.

LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS • Tūrangi is home to the Tongariro National Trout Centre that is run

by DOC. Walk through the museum and learn all about trout, feed some in the aquarium and learn to fish.

• Taihape is worth a visit with horse treks, river activities as well as the draw of that huge, metal gumboot sculpture. If you’re visiting in March, enjoy the annual Taihape Gumboot Festival.

Leaving from the Mangatepopo car park, the trails begins with gravel and boardwalks as it makes its way steadily up to Soda Springs.

You will find toilets there. Next comes the steepest part of the walk, known affectionately as The Devil’s Staircase; this takes you up to the Mangatepopo Saddle. If you’re feeling frisky, do the Extra for Experts and trot up to Mt Ngāuruhoe before returning to the main track to continue on to the saddle between Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngāuruhoe. Follow the markers to the South Crater where you’ll find the crossing’s highest point; the Red Crater is 1,887m above sea level.

From here walk on past the Emerald Lakes, then it’s around the side of the Blue Lake where it’s pretty much all downhill to the Ketetahi Shelter.

The last two hours, give or take, lead you through native forest before letting you out at the Ketetahi car park.

If you want to avoid peak season, walk in November when there are only two or three hundred people on the track each day.

WALKING MUST-DO’S 49

LOWER NORTH ISLAND

Walking Must-Do’s of Lower North Island 1

2

Bowl of Brooklands, Taranaki © Rob Tucker

3

4

WALKS 1

POUAKAI CROSSING

2

DAWSON FALLS WALKING TRACKS

3

BRIDGE TO NOWHERE WALK

4

MANAWATŪ GORGE TAWA LOOP WALK

5

ŌRONGORONGO TRACK

6

MĀKARA WALKWAY

7

CITY TO SEA WALKWAY

6

7

5

HIGHLIGHTS • Hawke’s Bay presents a dry, flat landscape blanketed in vineyards, and walkways have the marvellous habit of linking one winery to the next.

• The Hawke’s Bay region enjoys over 2150 hours of annual sunshine.

• Napier is well known for its art deco architecture and annual art deco festival which erupts every February to celebrate the era.

• Te Mata Peak dominates an otherwise

50

flat landscape in Napier and the National Aquarium is home to some of New Zealand’s most precious species.

• Taranaki sits on the rugged west coast and is distinguished by lofty Mt Taranaki/Mt Egmont.

• Experienced hikers will be drawn to the summit of Mt Taranaki/Mt Egmont.

• Saunter along New Plymouth’s award-winning coastal walkway: 13km of promenade bliss.

• In the New Plymouth town centre, don’t miss the Puke Ariki museum and contemporary Govett-Brewster Art Gallery.

• Wellington is our cool little capital with more sass than its small scale might suggest. Visit the Te Papa Museum and parliament buildings; jump aboard the vintage cable car and tour Weta Workshop (the talent behind The Lord of The Rings’ orcs, goblins and much more).

DISCOVER TARANAKI IT’S JUST AROUND THE CORNER

New Plymouth Coastal Walkway

Photo: Rach Stewart

Pouākai Crossing

From crossing a mythical mountain to taking a coastal walk of art there’s a lot to discover in Taranaki, a place like no other. Put Taranaki on your to-do list, and for everything you need beyond the walk, head to visit.taranaki.info.

visit.taranaki.info

It’s just around the corner!

AN INITIATIVE OF VENTURE TARANAKI

WALKING MUST-DO'S 51

LOWER NORTH ISLAND Pouakai Crossing, Egmont National Park © Getty Images

1

POUAKAI CROSSING

This spectacular one-day walk takes in the highlights of the Pouakai Circuit, with great views across a variety of landscapes.

Where is it?

Starts at North Egmont Visitor Centre and finishes at the Egmont National Park boundary at Mangōrei Rd. You need to use a shuttle service or arrange transportation with two vehicles.

Need to know The best time to walk the Pouakai Crossing is from December to April.

It can be walked year round but the higher parts can be affected by snow and ice in winter.

No dogs 7-9hr; 19km one way Reasonable fitness required – moderately challenging walk

TRACK OVERVIEW The track is well-formed and popular. Mt Taranaki features significantly and you can also expect to frame views over north Taranaki countryside to the coast and inland to Mt Ruapehu in your camera.

The walk winds past lava columns, rivers and streams, the Ahukawakawa Swamp and across the golden tussocks of the Pouakai plateau.

It finishes with a descent through forest to the lower Pouakai Ranges. Parts of the track are muddy and it’s a very full day so be prepared, check the weather and check for alerts and changes to the track at the visitor centre or on the DOC website.

Explore

South Taranaki Egmont Street, Pātea (06) 273 8354 | museum@stdc.govt.nz

66 Waihi Road, Hāwera (06) 278 0021| 0021| aqua�c@stdc.govt.nz

Home to countless classic beaches and surf breaks

With nine tourism awards to its credit, Tawhiti is now considered one of New Zealand’s most innovative historical presentations. Its lifesize figures, smaller scale dioramas and vast collection of artifacts is simply like no other.

55 High St, Hāwera (06) 278 8599 | visitorinfo@stdc.govt.nz www.southtaranaki.com 52

401 Ohangai Rd, Hawera.

Phone +64 6 278 6837 or Email: info@tawhitimuseum.co.nz Museum website: www.tawhitimuseum.co.nz Traders & Whalers website: www.tradersandwhalers.co.nz

•Opening hours on website •Cafe on site

2

DAWSON FALLS WALKING TRACKS TRACK OVERVIEW There are three main walks, and they all take around an hour.

The 1.4km Kapuni Loop down to Dawson Falls travels along Kapuni Stream, through what’s described as a ‘goblin forest' of subalpine trees. After following a short steep track, you will reach the base of Te Rere o Noke, Dawson Falls.

The 1.9km Wilkies Pools Loop Track takes you to a series of pools carved out of ancient lava flow. If you're here in summer, you’ll want swimsuits and towels as there is excellent swimming along here; the first 900m to the pools are stroller friendly.

Where is it?

Dawson Falls Visitor Centre, Manaia Rd, Egmont National Park.

Terrain Well-maintained forest paths, some steps, expect mud after rain, and the river may be dangerous to cross if the rain has been heavy.

Did you know?

Dawson Falls Power Station is one of the world’s longest serving generators, having been in continuous operation since 1935. Built in 1900 in New York, it was previously in service in Tasmania before being shipped to Taranaki. Walkers can look into the machine room thanks to push button illumination.

Kapuni Loop 1hr; 1.4km Wilkies Pool Loop 80min; 1.9km Ridge Loop 80min; 1.9km Basic fitness required

The 1.9km Ridge Loop Track heads up through forest and crosses the stream before taking you back to the visitor centre.

Some steps

RIGHT: Dawson Falls © Ra Auld

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A short walk to an impressive feat of engineering deep within the pristine Whanganui National Park.

BRIDGE TO NOWHERE WALK

Where is it?

From Mangapūrua Landing 90min return/3km or from Whakahoro 11hr or from Ruatiti Rd end 11hr Basic fitness if walking short version Easy walking if walking short version Bridge to Nowhere © Tourism New Zealand

Two options: Start at Mangapūrua Landing on the Whanganui River with boat transport required.

This will take 90min and is 3km returning the way you came.

Or start at the Mangapūrua Track, with access from either Whakahoro Rd or Ruatiti Rd. To walk from Whakahoro it will take approximately 11hr, or from Ruatiti Rd end, it also takes about 11hr. The easiest way is to use river transport and opt for the 3km return walk.

Terrain Well-maintained bush trails.

TRACK OVERVIEW This impressive concrete bridge was built in 1936 to provide a means of crossing Mangapūrua Stream, which was a significant upgrade from the swing bridge people used to cross on. Sadly, by the time the bridge was completed, only three farmers lived in the area and, with so few people located around the bridge, the government chose not to maintain the roads that connected with it. The result is a charming walk through quintessential New Zealand native bush to an unexpectedly sturdy and elegant structure.

If you have a head for heights, lean slightly over the bridge to catch sight of monstrous eels skulking in the river below.

Information panels flank one end of the bridge, where there's also a convenient picnic bench.

Get this The Bridge to Nowhere experiences more traffic today, albeit foot traffic, than when it was first constructed.

No dogs, unless you have a DOC permit WALKING MUST-DO'S 53

LOWER NORTH ISLAND

MANAWATŪ GORGE TAWA LOOP WALK 4

A great walk for families with a rich mix of ancient native bush and expansive views.

Where is it?

It starts at the Ashhurst end of the Manawatū Gorge, around 15km east of Palmerston North, adjacent to SH 3. The car park is just before the entrance to the gorge.

Go with the flow The Manawatū River is the only river to flow from Hawke's Bay to the west coast, travelling 105km west rather than 40km east.

Why? It’s understood that the river existed before the Tararua Mountain Ranges were formed.

Terrain Well-formed and maintained tracks. The 20-minute Manawatū Gorge Track is suitable for strollers but the longer loop track is not.

2hr; 4km loop Medium fitness required Some climbing

No dogs © ManawatuNZ.co.nz

TRACK OVERVIEW EXPLORE MANAWATŪ The Manawatū region covers a large area including the main cities of Palmerston North and Whanganui. Culture vultures should explore the Te Manawa Museum of Art, Science and History while those still in hiking boots can stride along the Manawatū River Pathway, a 10km riverside walk. Also here is Massey University which adds a lovely bookish ambience to the area.

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ŌRONGORONGO TRACK

This is an inspiring walk through beautiful territory, with lots of added interest. Be extra careful at the start of the track between the main highway and the river, as there are sharp drop-offs to the river.

The 4km Loop Track branches off the short Manawatū Gorge Track and eventually comes back to it. It passes through tawa and podocarp forest, along with nīkau palms and a maidenhair fern unique to the area. Along the way you’ll get brilliant views across Palmerston North and come across a carving of Māori warrior Whatonga.

The most popular walk in the Remutaka Forest Park, with a variety of forest, a bit of a challenge and swimming holes.

Where is it?

TRACK OVERVIEW Set off from the car park, where there is also an information centre and, for the first 90 minutes or so, climb through a variety of forest types from podocarp, including rimu, miro and tōtara, to broadleaf which, thanks to the tangled vines and ferns, can resemble a tropical rainforest. Nīkau palms and tawa are also prevalent along this first section. As you climb higher up Cattle Ridge the forest starts to transform into hard beech and, at the track’s highest point between Catchpool Valley and the Ōrongorongo River, you’ll come across a towering stand of northern rātā. No matter how many times you view these majestic trees, they will always take your breath away. Finally, at the end of the track, you’ll discover the swimming holes of the Turere Stream which, in summer, couldn’t be a more welcome sight.

154 Park Road Palmerston North

phone - +64 6 356 7077 fax - +64 6 356 7030

Starts at Catchpool car park on Catchpool Valley Rd, 12km south of Wainuiomata.

Terrain Well-maintained gravel and forest paths.

Need to know The Catchpool car park gate is open from 6am-8pm in summer and 6am6pm in winter.

4-5hr; 10.4km Average fitness required Some climbing Dogs are allowed on a leash only

WELLINGTON’S

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KIWI HOLIDAY PARK

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54

Gateway to the south...

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The White Swan Restaurant, Greytown © Mike Heydon

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MĀKARA WALKWAY TRACK OVERVIEW

WAIRARAPA A region with variety and charm, here you’ll find Martinborough’s small but globally admired vineyards, the cute but cool suburb of Greytown, and a Dark Sky that is nothing shy of a cosmic masterpiece. Visit native birds at the Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre, curious alpacas at The Alpaca Place and a full-scale adaptation of Stonehenge at Stonehenge Aotearoa which is also an open-sky observatory.

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One of three tracks in the Meridian West Wind Recreation Area, this is the kind of walk that blows out the cobwebs. Starting and ending on Mākara Beach, the trail climbs upward to provide walkers with incredible views across to Kāpiti Island, the South Island and majestic wind farms. For military history buffs, make time to explore the ancient pā site of Ngati Ira, found at the western end of Fisherman’s Bay. You can also spot gun emplacements from World War Two, when Fort Opau was the garrison home to over 100 soldiers. Be sure to pack water, warm clothes and be prepared for all weather conditions as this can be a rugged section of coast.

CITY TO SEA WALKWAY

Stride into the fresh sea air and be greeted with astonishing views, as well as historic gun emplacements, coastal delights and rich farmland.

Where is it?

Mākara Beach, 16km north of Wellington.

Terrain Coastal paths, rough tracks, farm trails.

Need to know The track is closed from August till Labour Weekend for lambing.

When the northerly wind is Mākara © Getty Images

Perfect for finding your bearings in the capital city, whether you do this walk end-to-end or in small sections.

Where is it?

Start at Bolton Street Cemetery in the city and walk towards Island Bay on the south coast.

Terrain City walking, town belt and bush tracks, pretty parks, quite hilly.

Grave news

Wellington Botanic Gardens © Getty Images

Although you'll feel as though you're deep in the wilderness, you're not too far from the bright lights of Wellington. From the bustling promenade along the waterfront to colourful street performers in Cuba Mall; the tempting wine lists in intimate bars to the pockets of gastronomic pleasure within walking distance of each other, Wellington is the perfect place to spend a weekend.

There is so much to see and do here, but don't miss exploring the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the ecosanctuary of Zealandia and a trip up Mt Victoria in the iconic Cable Car.

Bolton Street Cemetery is made up of three separate cemeteries with gravestones dating back to the 1840s. It’s elegant, peaceful and beautifully maintained so take a moment to reflect before setting off on the walk, if there’s time.

6-7hr; 12km Reasonable fitness required City walking, quite hilly

blowing strongly, it is advisable to avoid this walk but if there’s a southerly the area can be pleasantly sheltered. Beware of tides when walking on the beach.

4hr; 7km loop Average fitness required Some climbing

No dogs

TRACK TRACK OVERVIEW OVERVIEW Watching out for the orange trail markers, depart from the historic Bolton Street Cemetery before crossing the motorway on the Denis McGrath Bridge. Arriving in the formal rose gardens of the Wellington Botanic Gardens, 25 hectares of impressively grand planting, you’ll want to make some time to explore here before heading to the top of the Wellington Cable Car. Walk down the steps to Kelburn Park and through the grounds of Victoria University and onwards, down to Aro Valley past all the old houses clinging to the hillsides. Then you’ll go up through Central Park in Brooklyn before making a beeline for MacAlistair Park. Walk around the fringes of the Berhampore Golf Course before arriving on Tawatawa Bridge. This can be quite bracing when the wind is blowing but it’s also where you’ll discover some of the best views.

This is also the steepest part of the walk, so ideal for a break to catch your breath.

Once you see the Oku Reserve Trig, you’ll know you’re not far from Island Bay, which you’ll get to by walking down Shorland St.

No dogs WALKING MUST-DO'S 55

MARLBOROUGH & NELSON TASMAN Awaroa Estuary, Abel Tasman © Abel Tasman Aqua Taxi

Walking Must-Do’s of Marlborough & Nelson Tasman WALKS 1

WAINUI FALLS TRACK

2

ABEL TASMAN COAST TRACK

3

TĀKAKA HILL WALKWAY

4

HEAPHY TRACK

5

QUEEN CHARLOTTE TRACK

6

LAKE CHALICE HUT WALK

7

LAKE ROTOITI CIRCUIT

8

SPEARGRASS TRACK

4

1

2

3 5

6

8

7

HIGHLIGHTS • Nature astounds here. From the Sounds to the unbelievable colour and clarity of Te Waikoropupū Springs, it’s like nowhere else on Earth.

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• Nelson Lakes National Park hosts the startling lakes of Rotoiti and Rotoroa, the area’s largest.

• In Kahurangi National Park’s Marble Mountains, water has dissolved the stone to create a labyrinth of explorable caves.

• Blenheim is the region’s cultural heart, jampacked with must-see sights such as Ōmaka Aviation Heritage Centre, Ōmaka Classic Cars and the Marlborough Museum.

• Picton’s pretty marina is flush with boats bobbing on blue water.

• In Havelock, the mussel capital, crustaceans travel straight from the ocean to your plate.

• The Marlborough Wine Trail is the easiest way to sample the region’s famous wine.

• Farewell Spit is one of the largest natural sandbars in the world.

• Foodies love the gourmet delights in these parts: wine, craft beer and fresh seafood.

• Pic’s Peanut Butter World has a home in Nelson and offers free factory tours to all its devoted peanut butter fans.

Wainui Falls © Getty Images

A short walk through lush native bush leads to the cascading Wainui Falls, the largest and most accessible falls in Golden Bay/ Mohua – there’s also a long swing bridge for children to enjoy.

Where is it?

The track begins from a car park at Wainui Bay, about 20km northeast of Tākaka. Look for the directional sign about 300m after crossing the Wainui River Bridge.

Good to know

WAINUI FALLS TRACK 1

TRACK OVERVIEW Start by crossing farmland for a short distance, then walk through a forest of nīkau palms, rātā trees and ferns.

The track climbs rapidly alongside spectacular granite boulders, following the Wainui River. There’s a great suspension bridge on the way; below this you can see old logs piled up after massive floods.

You will know you are close to the falls when you can hear the sound of rushing water.

Return to the Wainui Bay car park on the same track.

After the walk, take some time to explore nearby Tākaka, a town full of character and friendly faces.

Wainui Falls Track is popular with families and can be very The is the main for Golden Bay with a range of when busytown throughout thecentre day over the peak summer months accommodation options, restaurants and cafés – including people flock to the region. The best time to complete thissome walk of finest organic, vegetarian and vegan in New If is the in autumn when there are fewer peoplecafés in the area,Zealand. and while you’re interested in art and craft, youalso will want follow the the temperatures remain warm.

You’ll get totoappreciate Art Trail. flair and colour of nearby Tākaka. natural

Wainui Falls Track is popular with families and can be very busy throughout the day over the peak summer months when people flock to the region. The best time to complete this walk is in autumn when there are fewer people in the area, and while temperatures remain warm. You’ll also get to appreciate the natural flair and colour of nearby Tākaka.

Stay together as a group and keep children close as the track has some steep drop-offs in places.

Be prepared: ensure you take food and water and wear sturdy footwear.

1hr 20min; 3.4km return Low to moderate fitness required Gentle, 1 flight of stairs No dogs

To the northwest of Nelson, the Golden Bay area beckons. A sun-trap and a place of extreme beauty, the Bay is well-known for being an arty, homespun paradise for alternative lifestylers.

Naturally, the best way to explore is on foot.

ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK As one of New Zealand’s most lauded walking areas, Abel Tasman National Park fronts the ocean and days can be spent on both the water and the land.

Refreshing swims in cobalt-coloured bays are readily enjoyed, and long tramps through coastal bush are just as moreish. Half-day and full day treks are popular options, as is joining a catamaran for coastal cruises, or skirting the shoreline by kayak to find Split Apple Rock. It’s not uncommon for nosy seals to pop their head above the water while you paddle.

Listen out for wildlife such as tui and bellbirds, picnic on deserted golden sand or sit before a stunning sunset and allow the last rays of sunshine warm your face. Create unique memories by paddling a traditional waka (Māori canoe) along the seashore, or take a small detour to Cleopatra’s Pool where you can glide down nature-made slides into a crystalline lagoon.

Kayaking in Abel Tasman © Getty Images

There are two ways to get into Abel Tasman National Park; walk in from Mārahau (20 minutes on foot and the main gateway) or, if you’re coming from the north, enter via Tākaka. Mārahau itself offers a lovely beach and plenty of places to stay. You can also book water taxis, hire kayaks and embark on the Abel Tasman Coast Track from here.

WALKING MUST-DO’S 57

MARLBOROUGH & NELSON TASMAN 2

Blessed with a mild climate, golden beaches and coastal forest, the Abel Tasman Coast Track really does have it all.

One of New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks, this track has half or multi-day options which make it ideal for families.

ABEL TASMAN COAST TRACK

Where is it?

Abel Tasman National Park, Nelson Tasman region.

Terrain Well-marked and signposted, but some sections may be steep and rough and the track could be muddy. There is one compulsory tidal crossing.

TRACK OVERVIEW

Know before you go

On the first day, cross the Mārahau causeway and walk through coastal forest. The track turns inland and later descends into Anchorage Bay. The next day you will cross the Torrent Bay Estuary and walk through forested areas then return to the coast at Bark Bay.

5 days/4 nights; 60km Medium fitness required

On the third day, walk across Bark Bay estuary or follow the all-tide track. After climbing over Tonga Saddle, descend to Awaroa Inlet.

The following day, cross Awaroa Inlet (tidal) and continue along the track, alternating between sandy beaches and rocky headlands, until Whariwharangi Bay. On the last day climb the saddle overlooking the Wainui Inlet. The track goes down to the shore and follows the estuary to Wainui Bay car park.

• Abel Tasman National Park camping at its finest!

• Booking office for all park activities • 40 hectares • Farm animals, off‑licence & river swimming • Secure car park • Wireless internet avail • Dorms, cabins & self‑contained studio

Harveys Rd, Marahau R.D.2, Motueka Ph: +64 3 527 8288 • Fax: +64 3 527 8289 Kaiteriteri Lookout © Marlborough Tourism Email: info@oldmacs.co.nz • www.oldmacs.co.nz

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Intermediate tramping track No dogs

3

Check tide times for crossing Awaroa Inlet. There are four huts and 19 campsites along the track, which must be booked in advance year round.

Get in quick as this track is very popular. Note: 1080 operation at times; some track sections will close.

LEFT: Anchorage, Abel Tasman © Tamzin Henderson RIGHT: Heaphy Track © Department of Conservation

TĀKAKA HILL WALKWAY

A lovely well-signposted loop walk with majestic views, beech forest and fascinating rock formations.

Where is it?

Start at the Tākaka Hill Summit, 32km from Tākaka Township, 147 Tākaka Hill Highway.

Terrain Tramping trails, gravel roads, farm and 4WD tracks.

2-3hrs; 5.1km Average fitness required Intermediate tramping track No dogs

Where is it?

Kahurangi National Park, Nelson Tasman and West Coast regions.

Terrain Well-formed and well-marked track. All major stream and river crossings are bridged.

Good to know Four-day hike. Climb to Flanaghans Corner, the highest point at 915m

4

HEAPHY TRACK

before descending to Heaphy River. 1080 operation at times and some track sections will close. As one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, this track is very popular and all huts must be booked in advance especially from late October to late April. From 1 May to 30 November mountain bikers also use this track. See page 11 for full track overview.

4 days/3 nights; 78.4km

Intermediate tramping track

Medium fitness required

No dogs

TRACK OVERVIEW One end of the track is near Collingwood, Golden Bay. The first day starts at Brown Hut. Hike up to Aorere Shelter and enjoy views over the valley. The viewpoint at Flanaghans Corner is the highest point (915m). On the next day you’ll walk through areas of tussock and beech trees. Enjoy the expansive tussocklands of Gouland Downs and views of the Tasman Sea and Heaphy River. On the third day, descend to the Heaphy River then continue through native forest. Approaching the river mouth, there are more nīkau palms and the sound of the ocean on the wild West Coast. On the last day follow the track along the rugged coastline and pass through native forests. Pass Crayfish Point (tidal) and rest at Scotts Beach. Climb over Kohaihai Bluff and continue along by the river until the Kohaihai car park (near Karamea, north of Westport).

TRACK OVERVIEW

Friendly Camp IN THE HEART of Collingwood

A well-marked trail that offers great views and all sorts of botanical and geological curiosities. Sometimes it’s referred to as Marble Mountain because this is limestone country which means you’ll find all sorts of interesting shapes in the rocks. With the highest point 950m above sea level, on a clear day the views are breathtaking; looking east you’ll see out to the Tasman Mountains in Kahurangi National Park as well as across to Tākaka Valley and Golden Bay.

Collingwood Holiday Park

COLLINGWOOD HOLIDAY PARK Cabins and camping options Toilet/shower & laundry facilities • Internet access Equipped kitchens and TV room Tennis courts • Recycling • Pets by arrangement only

Do remember that this track is on private land, so please be respectful.

6 William Street, Collingwood 7073 • Golden Bay • E: info@collingwoodholidaypark.co.nz

BOOK NOW: www.collingwoodholidaypark.co.nz • P: 03 524 8149

www.ngaruacaves.co.nz

Tasman St, Collingwood, Golden Bay

• Farewell Spit is a nature reserve and world-renowned www.farewellspit.com bird sanctuary.

Phone: +64 3 524 8257 Email: enquiries@farewellspit.co.nz Farewell Spit Tours A Middle Earth Experience

Ph: +64 3 528 8093 • ngaruacaves@gmail.com

• On our tours you’ll visit the historic lighthouse, take in the panorama from the top of one of the 100fthigh dunes & see old fossils exposed on the beach.

RESERVATIONS:

0800 808 257 WALKING MUST-DO’S 59

MARLBOROUGH & NELSON TASMAN

QUEEN CHARLOTTE TRACK 5

© Destination Marlborough

A classic New Zealand walk, featuring coastal marvels, pristine bush and plenty of birdlife plus top accommodation in lodges.

Where is it?

In Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru sounds. Most people start at Meretoto, Ship Cove and head to Mistletoe Bay in Anakiwa, although you can do it in either direction.

Terrain Well-formed tracks, steep, rough and muddy in some places. All major stream and river crossings have bridges.

Pedal power

No dogs 3-5 days one way; 71km Intermediate fitness required Some climbing

This trail is also one of Ngā Haerenga New Zealand Cycle Trails’ Great Rides. Please note that even though cycling on this track is permitted all year round, the section between Meretoto/ Ship Cove and Kenepuru Saddle is closed during the busy summer season from 1 December to the end of February.

TRACK OVERVIEW Have a boat drop you off at Ship Cove and, once you’ve explored this historic site and enjoyed the interpretation panels, set off through bush and admire the beech forest. After just 50min, you’ll be greeted by a stunning view across Queen Charlotte Sound before starting your descent into Resolution Bay and the DOC’s Schoolhouse Bay campsite. From here it’s another three hours to Endeavour Inlet, partially following the shore, before another four hours brings you to Camp Bay campsite. Pressing on to Torea Saddle, this is the most challenging portion, but the view from the ridge will see all your cares evaporate. Onwards to Mistletoe Bay, about four hours from Torea Saddle, then another four hours sees you pop out in Anakiwa. Here there’s a jetty, so you can arrange water transport to whisk you back to wherever you want to go to next.

Jasmine Court Motel

78 Wellington St, Picton P: +64 3 573 7110

Peaceful, spacious oasis of comfort minutes from waterfront, cafés, restaurants, shops and tourist activities. Located near both ferry terminals. Ideal base when walking Queen Charlotte track. Tariff: from $110 (season dependent).

:TZGE Res: 0800 421 999

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E: info@jasminecourt.co.nz

www.jasminecourt.co.nz

Lake Chalice Hut © Getty Images

6

LAKE CHALICE HUT WALK TRACK OVERVIEW Leaving the car park, you’ll go down a steep track through forest and bush to the hut which is found at the eastern end of the peaceful two kilometre-long alpine lake.

The hut has eight beds which are available on a first come, first served basis. Once at the hut, having claimed your bunk space, the loop around this beautiful body of water makes for a charming walk; it will take about two hours to complete your circumnavigation. There is a fireplace at the hut which is most welcome on cooler nights and if the skies are clear the stargazing is amazing.

Lake Chalice is the only lake in the Mt Richmond Forest Park and this delightful, not too challenging walk is excellent for children and novice hikers.

Where is it?

Staircase Rd, Mt Richmond Forest Park, Marlborough Region.

Terrain Well-maintained tramping tracks, sometimes steep and rocky.

Take care Wasps can be a bit of a problem, with the worst time of year between December and April.

Sandflies can also be an issue.

Good to know Forestry operations can close roads – Goulter Rd closed during the weekends.

In Blenheim, devour gourmet delights and take Access for dogs your pick from a feast of with DOC sights and attractions. permit only Don’t leave without trying Marlborough’s sauvignon 1hr to hut; 2.6km blanc, which put New 2hr 30min loop Zealand wine in the from hut; 6.5km international spotlight.

The town centre is a haven Strong fitness of contemporary stores, required antique shops, galleries, charming cafés and Sometimes steep restaurants all occupying and rocky Walking near Picton © Marlborough Tourism sunny, open spaces. © Destination Marlborough

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LAKE ROTOITI CIRCUIT

A spectacular walk that can be done in a day if you employ the services of a water taxi, or stay overnight in one of the huts.

Where is it?

Start from Kerr Bay on Lake Rotoiti near St Arnaud.

No dogs

Terrain Bush tracks, some of them challenging, muddy after rain.

Still waters Along the way you’ll see a sign for Whiskey Falls, named for an illicit still found there in the 1880s. This requires a short detour but is worth it if time is on your side.

TRACK OVERVIEW

7-10 hr loop track; 23-31km loop track Strong fitness required Advanced tramping track Lake Rotoiti, Nelson Lakes © Tom Hackett

Lake Angelus, Nelson Lakes © Nelson Tasman Tourism

HIGHLIGHTS Nelson Lakes National Park is all about the stunning glacial lakes, notably Rotoroa, Rotoiti and Blue Lake. The park is accessible from St Arnaud, a one to two-hour drive from Nelson or Blenheim, with the most easy-to-reach lake being Lake Rotoiti. Lake Rotoroa is a little more off the beaten track and Blue Lake, where the water clarity reaches a whopping 80m, even more so. Aside from walks (of course!) visitors can enjoy idyllic boat rides, kayaking, fishing and mountain biking.

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Your walk begins at Kerr Bay, where you’ll also find information panels telling you everything you need to know to tackle this walk. Following the markers, head along the eastern side of the lake which is fringed with mountains, notably majestic 1421m Pōrangahau (Mt Robert). Bird fanciers will stop to admire everything from korimako/bellbirds, pīwakawaka/fantails, toutouwai/robins and titipounamu/rifleman. Little spotted kiwi are also resident around here. After about three hours of walking through beautiful bush and beech forest and having crossed a couple of streams, you’ll arrive at Lake Head Jetty. Twenty minutes later you’ll find Lake Head Hut, which isn’t far from a picturesque swing bridge. Follow the markers to Travers River, then join up with Lower Travers Valley Track which will take you to Coldwater Hut. This section is more challenging, with a steady and relatively steep climb heading away from the lake before reaching a gravel road which goes to West Bay. Joining the Peninsula Nature Walk, the trails become easier, until it reaches the western end of Kerr Bay, back where you started.

SPEARGRASS TRACK Serene St Arnaud is a beautiful alpine village on the edge of Lake Rotoiti. It’s an ideal base for those who want to explore the Nelson Lakes National Park and the Travers Sabine Circuit, a challenging but rewarding walk. Activities in the area include mountaineering, snow sports at Rainbow Ski Field, water skiing, kayaking, boating and fishing on lakes Rotoiti and Rotoroa. Head to the DOC Visitor Centre to learn about the honeydew beech forest and to join a guided walk.

Beware of wasps (at their worst December to April) and sandflies, both a nuisance here.

Pack repellent and antihistamine if allergic.

2.5hr each way; 7.4km

A pleasant short walk that is ideal for a day trip or an overnight adventure.

Intermediate fitness required

Where is it?

Set off from the car park at Mt Robert Rd, a short drive from St Arnaud on SH 63.

Easy to intermediate tramping track

Terrain Well-graded tramping tracks, mostly flat except for a climb at either end

No dogs

TRACK OVERVIEW Make your way down from the car park, and follow the river for a decent chunk of the walk before beginning your climb to the hut; you’ll know when you’re close to your destination when you cross the sturdy bridge over Te Horowai/Speargrass Creek.

The track is largely flat although do expect a bit of uphill work at either end. When you arrive at Speargrass Hut you’ll find a very cosy double-glazed well-insulated 12-bunk hut. It’s serviced, there are mattresses and a wood burner for heating.

Operating on a first-come first-served basis, you can also camp out the front on the pretty grassy clearing if you’d rather. Very peaceful.

WALKING MUST-DO’S 61

WEST COAST Lake Moana © Getty Images

Walking Must-Do’s of West Coast HIGHLIGHTS

• Ōkārito Lagoon is a beautiful body of water perfect for swimming, kayaking and boat trips.

• Lake Brunner is ideal for jet boating, paddling and fishing for brown trout, of which there is an abundant supply.

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WALKS

Fox Glacier guided tour © Getty Images

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OPARARA ARCH WALK

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CHARMING CREEK WALKWAY

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CAPE FOULWIND WALKWAY

4

TRUMAN TRACK

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PAPAROA TRACK & PIKE29 MEMORIAL TRACK

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HOKITIKA GORGE WALK

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FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER WALKWAY

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LAKE MATHESON WALK

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• Tauranga Bay Seal Colony is one of New Zealand’s most accessible.

Watching the hilarious seal antics is highly addictive.

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• Walk or zipline across the 100m Buller Gorge Swingbridge, the longest in the country.

• Shantytown Heritage Park is a full replica of an 1860 gold town with over 30 explorable buildings.

• In Hokitika, climb amidst rainforest giants at the West Coast Treetop Walkway. Steel platforms weave through the trees, culminating in a spiral tower.

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• Hokitika makes a great base for both the impossibly blue Hokitika Gorge and the twinkly Glow Worm Dell.

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• Admire what nature can create over 35 million years at Oparara Basin.

• Explore world-famous Fox and Franz Josef glaciers, as well as Lake Matheson for its perfect reflection of Aoraki Mt Cook.

• Haast region is composed of several townships including historic Reefton with its original 1900s streetlamps.

• Arthur's Pass is hugely impressive.

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OPARARA ARCH WALK

An easy yet breathtaking walk to an impressive limestone arch, one of several short walks in the area.

Where is it?

McCallums Mill Rd, 25km north of Karamea.

Terrain Well-formed easy tramping track.

Need to know McCallums Mill Rd is narrow and steep with a gravel surface, so large vehicles and campervans are not permitted.

Maximum height restriction of 2.8m.

1080 operation at times, some sections may close. Check alerts.

Under an hour; 2km return Basic fitness required No dogs

Easy tramping track

Oparara Arches © West Coast Tourism NZ

TRACK OVERVIEW Please note: Mangatini Falls is currently inaccessible from the southern end access from SH 67 at Ngākawau, 35km northeast of Westport due to a large slip. The falls can be accessed from the northern end through Seddonville, 50km northeast of Westport on SH 67.

TRACK OVERVIEW A great little walk for people of all ages.

Choose the left track just before you reach the Oparara Bridge and the track will take you along the river, through beech and podocarp forest and then dense native bush, eventually arriving at phenomenal limestone outcrops.

In a short time you’ll reach the impressive limestone Oparara Arch, thought to be the largest of its kind in Australasia. Featuring exquisite shapes and colours, when the light is right, this place is heaven for painters and photographers.

CHARMING CREEK WALKWAY 2

Ngākawau track end to Watson’s Mill (3.5km; 1hr 15min one-way): The track starts with an easy 30min walk to an area where bins historically used for transporting timber and coal can be seen. From here the track enters the Lower Ngākawau Gorge and follows on to the suspension bridge, where you can admire views up and down the gorge. The impressive Mangatini Falls are visible from the track beyond the bridge. A 50m tunnel leads to a section of track called the Verandah with brilliant views of the river and Upper Ngākawau Gorge. The track then leads to the river flats of Charming Creek and the historic site of Watson’s Mill.

Watson’s Mill to the historic Charming Creek mine entrance/car park (6km; 1hr 45min one-way): From Watson’s Mill follow the old railway tracks through old cutover and farm paddocks to Mumm’s Mill site. The track then leads onto the old Charming Creek mine entrance and car park. Charming Creek Walkway is made up of two sections and can be walked in either direction. Low-to-moderate fitness is required on this undulating track.

Access for dogs on lead only 2hr one way; 9.5km one way Low-moderate fitness required Undulating trail

BOTH IMAGES: © Miles Holden / Tourism NZ

Scenery and history combine as you walk along an historic bush tramway through the lower Ngākawau Gorge and the Charming Creek valley to the abandoned Charming Creek Coal Mine, passing historic saw milling and mining remains. The gorge nestles among steep bluffs while below, water foams past immense boulders in the riverbed.

Where is it?

There are normally two points of access to the walkway but due to an active and highly dangerous slip the southern end access that is clearly signposted from SH 67 at Ngākawau, 35km northeast of Westport, is currently closed. The northern end is open and access is through Seddonville, 50km northeast of Westport on SH 67, and 10km along a gravel road to the walkway entrance at the abandoned Charming Creek mine site. Contact Westport i-SITE Visitor Centre on 03 789 6658 to arrange transport to and from the track ends.

WALKING MUST-DO'S 63

WEST COAST 3

CAPE FOULWIND WALKWAY

This spectacular coastal walkway features a seal colony, a lighthouse and panoramic views of mountains and coastline.

Panels along the track tell stories of Māori history, sea voyages and early explorers.

From the seal colony, a longer walking track leads to Cape Foulwind lighthouse. Return the same way or arrange transport from Cape Foulwind car park.

Where is it?

The track is about 16km southwest of Westport. Follow Cape Foulwind Rd (SH 67A) for 11km to the former Holcim cement works. Turn left into Tauranga Bay Rd to access the Tauranga Bay car park (southern end). For visitors doing the longer walk, which includes the seal colony and the lighthouse, there is access from Cape Foulwind lighthouse car park (northern end).

Need to know

TRACK OVERVIEW Starting at the southern end of the walkway, a short walk from the Tauranga Bay car park takes you along the fully wheelchairaccessible path to the viewpoint overlooking the Tauranga Bay seal colony.

You can then return to the Tauranga Bay car park or continue the walking track over undulating farmland with an occasional stile over fences to the Cape Foulwind lighthouse and car park.

From the viewing platform near the lighthouse, you will enjoy panoramic views of the Paparoa Range and Southern Alps/Kā Tiritiri o te Moana and along the western coastline, both north and south.

Cape Foulwind © Miles Holden / Tourism NZ

1hr 15min; 3.4km one way (car park to seal colony 30min, 1km return)

TRUMAN TRACK 4

Low-moderate fitness required

With forest trails and coastal views, this is an easy West Coast walk with excellent information panels.

Flat/undulating track

Where is it?

Access for dogs on a lead only

www.palmcourtwestport.co.nz

From SH 6, the track starts 3km north of the Paparoa National Park Visitor Centre in Punakāiki.

Terrain Well-formed and maintained paths.

No dogs

Reservations: 0800 472 567 306 Palmerston St, Westport Phone/Fax: +64 3 789 7247 Email: palmcourtwpt@xtra.co.nz

• Sunny location • Walk to shops • Motorcycle & cycle friendly • Free WiFi • Tariff: from $115 (2 persons), extra $15 Well-travelled tourists say “the best motel we’ve stayed at”

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The walk is one-way and you'll need to arrange transport from Cape Foulwind car park or return along the same walkway. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather on this coastal walk; carry a weatherproof or windproof jacket, hat and gloves.

30min; 1.4km return Basic fitness required Easy walking track

TRACK OVERVIEW The short but delightful Truman Track takes walkers through pristine subtropical forest where flourishing stands of rātā loom above the path and nīkau palms are found. If the forest alone wasn’t pretty enough, eventually you will pop out on to the fabulous cliff-lined coast with caves, a blowhole and a waterfall that thunders onto a rocky beach. Go down the stairway to gain access to the beach, but know this is a very boisterous coastline so keep your wits about you as you explore. And be respectful of the wildlife; you’ll see all sorts down here from petrels to fur seals, weka to Hector's dolphins and, when the kōwhai are in flower, the birds flock to this neck of the woods. If it’s low tide and you’ve time to explore the rock pools, look out for the magnificent starfish who also live here.

PAPAROA TRACK & PIKE29 MEMORIAL TRACK 5

Paparoa Track © Stewart Nimmo

There will soon be the option to walk the Pike29 Memorial Track on day two. Here, a memorial will tell the story of the 29 men that died in the Pike River Mine disaster.

This is the newest Great Walk. It crosses the Paparoa Range and takes you through alpine tops, limestone karst landscapes and thriving rainforests, with breathtaking views.

Where is it?

The track runs from Blackball on the eastern side of the Paparoa Range to Punakāiki on the western side.

TRACK OVERVIEW Day 1: Beginning near Blackball on the existing Croesus Track, with remnants of the area’s goldmining history, the track ascends through beech and podocarp forest before crossing alpine scrub and tussock. You’ll be rewarded with expansive views of the Grey River to the east and the Tasman Sea to the west.

Day 2: Open tops give way to alpine forest stunted by the harsh environment. Continue along the escarpment where the landscape is strikingly dramatic with sheer drops and stunning views

Visit shantytown.co.nz and pre-book your place in history

down the Pike Stream in the east, west to Punakāiki and northwest to Westport. After descending, walk through ancient podocarp forest under towering cliffs.

Day 3: Hike down into the upper Pororari River valley. The track sidles a spectacular gorge and descend towards the coast through beech forest interspersed with northern rātā. Experience the lower gorge with its limestone cliffs; and pass through lush rainforest with glades of nīkau palms. The track ends near Punakāiki.

No dogs 2-3 days one way; 55km one way Moderate fitness required Some steep sections

Rutherglen Road, Paroa (10km south of Greymouth) Open 7 days 10:00am - 3:00pm Freephone 0800 742 689 WALKING MUST-DO'S 65

WEST COAST 6

HOKITIKA GORGE WALK

A great little leg stretcher for those driving around the South Island’s dramatic West Coast.

Where is it?

Hokitika Gorge Scenic Reserve, Whitcombe Valley Rd, 33km east of Hokitika.

Terrain Boardwalks, bush tracks, well maintained.

No dogs 30min return; 650m each way Basic fitness required Easy tramping track

TRACK OVERVIEW The walking track starts at the car park and, after the first few steps, you’ll find yourself in a cool and impressive podocarp forest .Very soon, you’ll pop out onto the viewing platform. When you look down the magnificent Hokitika Gorge, you’ll see how powerfully water carves its way through the land, capable of creating impressive gorges like this one. Up to this point, the track is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. From here, go another short distance along elegantly constructed board walks until you reach a swing bridge for a glimpse of the turquoise waters of the Hokitika River flowing through the gorge. For more views, cross the swing bridge to another platform providing more stunning vistas.

Hokitika seaside town is where the beach is famed for its huge driftwood deposits and the famous annual Hokitika Wild Foods Festival which serves anything from huhu grubs to mountain oysters (also known as bull testicles!) On the doorstep there are treetop walks and the 40m-high Hokitika Tower. Visit Lake Kaniere and Lake Mahinapua, take on the seven-hour trek to the peak of Mt Tuhua, find a glowworm dell and relax at the three-tiered Dorothy Falls and swimming hole.

RIGHT: Hokitika Gorge © West Coast Tourism

If there has been heavy rainfall, the water might not be the startling blue you've seen in pictures. Sandflies like this area too, so pack repellent or wear full-length pants and long-sleeved tops.

FRANZ JOSEF & FOX GLACIERS

An exhilarating treetop adventure among temperate rainforest giants. Experience life with birds high in the ancient rimu and kamahi tree canopy. Easy access for all to enjoy along a steel platform 20 metres high and over 450 metres long. Come and enjoy a leisurely 45-minute to one-hour stroll.

Just six kilometres from the centre of Franz Josef village lies one of the world's most accessible glaciers: Franz Josef. Not quite as steep, but equally mesmerising, Fox Glacier sits 28km to the south. Both glaciers present visitors with the opportunity to enjoy guided heli-hiking tours, as well as walking trails at ground level which lead to astonishing views of the glacial face.

Freephone: 0508 TREETOPS www.treetopsnz.com 1128 Woodstock-Rimu Rd, Hokitika RD 3 • 15 minutes south of Hokitika Email: bookings@treetopsnz.com

OFF

$5

Expires: Sep 2021

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Conditions: This voucher entitles the bearer to $5 off the entry and all-day passes. Not valid with any other discount deals or special offers. (AA)

Guided tour on Franz Josef Glacier © Franz Josef Glacier Guides

FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER WALKWAY 7

TRACK OVERVIEW The first 15 minutes is an easy (fully accessible) forest walk from the car park to a river bank view of the glacier.

It then follows markers in the riverbed past Trident Falls to a point close to the terminal face of the glacier. This is not a track but a route over the shingle and rock of the riverbed and it can be quite rough underfoot – make sure you have suitable footwear.

The final section of track to the safety barriers includes a short climb to the viewing area. Do not go past the barriers and pay attention to all signage as areas of the valley are hazardous and are not safe for visitors.

The glacier is constantly moving. Ice and rock fall from the terminal face without warning. Creeks may rise up to a metre in even moderate rain. Water levels rise in as little as 15 minutes.

The Franz Josef Glacier is a unique and awe-inspiring sight, and it’s easily accessible via this rocky riverbed path to a viewing area.

Where is it?

Head south from the Franz Josef township then turn left onto Glacier Access Rd. The walk starts from the car park at the end of the road.

This is a beautiful yet dangerous place that is sometimes closed due to hazardous conditions, so check www.doc.govt.nz before you start to see if it's open.

1hr 30min return; 5.4km Low fitness required Easy tramping track No dogs

Lake Matheson © Getty Images

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LAKE MATHESON WALK

A gentle walk through native forest leads to the picturesque shore of Lake Matheson, with Aoraki Mt Cook brilliantly reflected in its waters. The lake was formed when Fox Glacier retreated from its last significant advance about 14,000 years ago. During the last major ice age, the glacier spread across the coastal plains towards the sea, dumping huge piles of rock.

It ground a depression which later filled with water, forming the lake.

Where is it?

From Fox Glacier township, turn onto Cook Flat Rd. Travel 5km then turn right onto the sideroad to Lake Matheson.

Car park to jetty 40min; 1km return Lake Circuit 1.5hr; 2.6km return Low fitness required Easy walking with some undulations

TRACK OVERVIEW The first section to Jetty Viewpoint is suitable for assisted wheelchairs. After crossing the Clearwater suspension bridge, the walk leads past tall kahikatea and rimu as well as a rich profusion of smaller plants. The jetty provides a magnificent mountain view reflected in the dark waters. From Jetty Viewpoint, continue further around the lake and you'll find a similarly magnificent mountain reflection shrouded in native foliage at the ‘View of Views’ at the top end of the lake, and again at Reflection Island. Always take warm and waterproof clothing as the weather can change rapidly. Overnight camping is not permitted in or near the car park. Drones are not permitted.

No dogs

WALKING MUST-DO'S 67

CANTERBURY

Walking Must-Do’s of Canterbury Erewhon Station wagon ride, Ashburton © Canterbury Tourism

HIGHLIGHTS

Hector’s dolphins, Akaroa © Chalita Aommy Klumjui

• Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s most charming cities.

• With its startling blue lake, purple lupin flowers (November through to early January) and soaring Alps, Lake Tekapō is prettier than you even expect.

• After admiring Lake Tekapō, flop into Tekapō Springs.

WALKS 1

KAIKŌURA PENINSULA WALKWAY

2

MT ISOBEL TRACK

3

AWAROA/GODLEY HEAD LOOP TRACK

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ROUND THE MOUNTAIN VIA CURRY TRACK

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DEVILS PUNCHBOWL WALKING TRACK

6

KURA TĀWHITI ACCESS TRACK

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PEEL FOREST PARK SCENIC RESERVE WALKS

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CAROLINE BAY, TIMARU BOTANIC GARDENS & CENTENNIAL PARK WALKS

• You’ll feel compelled to take a photo of picture-perfect Church of the Good Shepherd on the shores of Lake Tekapō.

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• Kaikōura is the place to feast on justcaught seafood, notably crayfish.

• On the Ohau Stream and Waterfall Track in Kaikōura, baby seal pups often play in the river and waterfall.

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• MacKenzie Country is an International Dark Sky Reserve and in winter you might even catch the Aurora Australis.

• Aoraki Mt Cook is 3724m-high and New Zealand’s highest peak.

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• The scenery is year-round sensational in Aoraki National Park.

• Drive the highest pass across the Southern Alps: Arthur’s Pass.

• Hanmer Springs has hot springs.

• Admire dinky Hector’s dolphins in the waters around Akaroa.

• The two-hour return White Horse Walkway in Waimate is spectacular.

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KAIKŌURA PENINSULA WALKWAY 1

TRACK OVERVIEW Start in the centre of town and head towards The Esplanade and Point Kean car park. Along the way make time to stop and read the interpretation panels which tell the stories of the area’s vibrant history.

Travel across the peninsula’s cliff tops, where the views over to the Kaikōura Ranges and along the coast to South Bay are spectacular.

Near historic Fyffe House learn about the significance of this area for both Māori and colonial settlers.

The viewpoint at Point Kean is designed to represent a waka and the views there are excellent, also. This is a good place to see birdlife, from oyster catchers to reef herons and possibly even little blue penguins. Continue on to Whalers Bay viewpoint and learn how the forest would have looked thousands of years ago. From Whalers Bay proceed to South Bay viewpoint and the burgeoning colony of Hutton’s shearwaters, then continue towards the town centre via Scarborough St, and follow Tom’s Track back to The Esplanade. A delightful and educational walk for all ages.

Seals and seabirds, pā sites and mountain views, dramatic scenery from one end to the other.

Where is it?

In Kaikōura, on the northeast of the South Island.

Terrain Easy walking tracks.

Need to know Be wary of the seals in the Kean Point car park as males can be territorial.

What a legend It’s said that when Maui fished the North Island out of the ocean, he used the Kaikōura Peninsula to brace himself.

No dogs 5min-3hr; 200m-11.7km Basic fitness required Easy walking

LEFT: Kaikōura Peninsula © Getty Images

In Canterbury, rural meets high country meets big mountains meets even bigger KAIKŌURA MUST-DO’S • Swim with dusky dolphins Frolicking in Kaikōura waters in pods of up to several hundred, it’s not hard to get acquainted with dolphins in these parts.

Join a tour to observe them from the boat, or jump in and snorkel side-by-side.

• Visit Fyffe House An easy 45-minute walk from the centre, this is the town’s oldest surviving building, creaking with tales from the 1800s.

• Find enormous whales Giant sperm whales are a captivating sight whether you spy them from a catamaran, helicopter or plane. Sperm whales make year-round appearances, while orca, humpback and

blue whales are seasonal.

• Climb Mt Fyffe An eight-hour return trek up this relatively unknown mountain trail presents unparalleled views across the Kaikōura Ranges.

• Photograph an albatross Kaikōura is one of the best places on Earth to see multiple species of giant albatross.

Join a tour to get your head around their colossal threemetre wingspan.

• Meet fur seals Snorkel beside them in the shallow waters of Kaikōura Peninsula and walk to Pt Kean Seal Colony to observe them napping on the rocks.

skies. Bright-blue braided rivers cross the land, picturesque bays and villages line the coast, wildlife flourishes, world-class wine is produced and magical lakes abound. What better place to lace up your walking shoes?

ANCHOR INN MOTEL KAIKOURA

Fully self-contained comfort on the Esplanade • Waterfront location with outdoor seating at every room for magnificent ocean and mountain views • FREE WiFi • 50+ Sky Channels • TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2011-2020

208 Esplanade | Kaikoura | New Zealand Email: info@anchorinn.co.nz

Reservations Freephone: 0800 72 00 33 Book Online: www.anchorinn.co.nz

2011-2020

WALKING MUST-DO’S 69

CANTERBURY

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WALKING MUST-DO’S 71

CANTERBURY

HANMER SPRINGS This serene alpine village is a haven for recreation and paradise for walkers.

The town’s surrounding mountains provide idyllic walking trails in summer, and powder-rich ski slopes during winter. Take 45 minutes out of your day to charge up Conical Hill – the views are postcard perfect – and discover the delightful sculptures in Hanmer Heritage Forest.

Mt Isobel © Getty Images

Unwind and indulge at New Zealand’s most famous, mineral-rich hot pools at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa. Take a load off in various soothing sulphur pools or hit the fun button on one of the park’s hydroslides. From bobbing languidly down a lazy river to luxurious spa treatments, relaxation is everything here.

• 10 studio & family apartments (sleeping 2-6), 1 with access facilities • Gas water heating, inverter heat pumps, wifi in all units • Sky Select all channels & flatscreen TV in all units, DVD player & free loan DVD library (750+ titles) • On-site laundry facilities • Private terrace with outside dining facilities, safe on-site parking.

• 8 out of 10 units have double-size spa baths • Ideally located for all walking & cycle trails including St James • Secure undercover bicycle storage • Car parking and secure left-luggage facility whilst away on trails • Tariff: $185 - $240 (2 persons) • Designated smoking area Proudly Kiwi owned and operated by resident proprietors Robert & Rhian Sluggett 121 Argelins Road, Hanmer Springs • Tel: +64 3 315 7211 Email: alpinespringsmotel@xtra.co.nz

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www.alpinespringsmotel.co.nz

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MT ISOBEL TRACK TRACK OVERVIEW

Hanmer Springs is a charming resort town and, while you could enjoy the waters all day, there are adventures. Mt Isobel is the perfect adventure to ensure you deserve your subsequent hot soak. With several short walks, possibly the finest is the full day walk up Mt Isobel (1342m). Start at the Clarence Valley Rd car park and wander through woodland before you enter subalpine scrub and open grassland. For the botanically minded the hebe will be of interest. As you walk above the Dog Stream catchment, you’ll link with the upper reaches of the Waterfall Track before starting your climb. Although a bit of effort is required to reach the summit, the panoramic views of the Hanmer Basin, Waiau Plain and surrounding mountains, notably Organ and Hanmer, make it all worthwhile.

6hr return; 7km

Steep climb; hard tramping track

Good fitness required

Access for dogs on lead only

Described as the most climbed mountain in Canterbury. If you’re in the region, you can hike it and find out why.

Where is it?

Towering above Hanmer Springs Village, in the Canterbury region, 133km from Christchurch.

For extensive information and special options visit our website

Hanmer Springs TOP 10 Holiday Park

A beautiful park next to walking trails, 5 mins from thermal pools/day spa, cafes/ restaurants and boutique alpine village.

0800 521 037 5 Hanmer Springs Road, Hanmer Springs hanmerspringstop10.co.nz

Apartments | Motels | Units | Sites • Wood-fired hot tubs on site • Pizza ovens • BBQs • Bike hire • Espresso

Terrain Bush path, alpine trails some scree.

Good to know In the winter it can snow up here and the exposed areas can be very windy, so exercise common sense and be mountain smart, dress warmly and prepare for all weather conditions.

www.spalodgehanmer.co.nz Spa Lodge Motel • 15 Harrogate Street, Hanmer Springs P: +64 3 315 7129 • Reservations 0800 44 66 44 E: enquiries@spalodgehanmer.co.nz

• Spacious self-contained studios and 1 & 2-bedroom units in a peaceful garden setting • 250 metres from the thermal pools, shops and restaurants • Undercover parking • Sky TV 50+ Channels incl Sky Sport • Summer outdoor pool • Guest laundry • Free WiFi • Complimentary towels for the thermal pools • Tariff: (2 persons) $120-$175

Go to www.thestjames.co.nz or ph. 033155225

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BEST OF THE BEST 72

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20 Chisholm Crescent, Hanmer Springs

AWAROA/GODLEY HEAD LOOP TRACK 3

ROUND THE MOUNTAIN VIA CURRY TRACK 4

Akaroa Harbour & wharf © Getty Images

Native bush and spectacular views over Akaroa are the highlights of this day tramp.

Where is it?

Start at Akaroa or Heritage Park which is accessible from Long Bay Rd or on foot via Woodills Track.

Terrain Godley Head © Getty Images

TRACK OVERVIEW Setting off from Godley Head car park, plot a course to Taylors Mistake beach and the Pilgrims Way track.

Follow the well-signposted paths above Mechanics Bay and alongside remnants of the Second World War including the battery observation posts that overlook the entrance to Lyttelton Harbour.

Carry on until you reach Boulder Bay, keep on past the Godley Battery Compound and either return the same way or take the shared-use Anaconda Track to Breeze Col. If you choose the second option, be on the lookout for bikes.

This walk offers gorgeous views of Christchurch city, the Heathcote and Avon estuaries, and New Brighton Beach. Sharp-eyed wildlife fans will also want to keep a watch out for dolphins, seals and whales.

For walkers who want a beach, coastal views and Second World War relics, this is an excellent stroll for all ages.

Where is it?

Start at Godley Head car park in Sumner about 50 minutes drive from Christchurch.

Terrain Well-formed trails; some of the paths down to the caves require extra care.

Good to know There’s a campsite at Godley Head.

3hr return; 9.3km loop Low fitness required Easy walking track Access for dogs on a leash and not on the beach in summertime

Mostly unformed track but signposted, with prolonged ups and downs. Includes some road walking.

More walks Akaroa and Banks Peninsula have many great walks, from short hikes to all-day tramps. Even a quiet wander around the pretty town of Akaroa is worth making time for.

4hr return; 10.9km Reasonable fitness required Intermediate walking track No dogs

TRACK OVERVIEW A satisfying and varied walk with some decent climbs that reward with expansive views.

From Akaroa or Woodills North, you soon get to Purple Peak Curry Reserve which is a large, high tract of land with impressive biodiversity encompassing native plants including podocarp, cabbage trees, tōtara, mataī and kahikatea. There’s history here too, with the site of a homestead to explore before descending.

Take a picnic and find a sunny spot with unencumbered views because this area is all about stunning vistas.

The only motel in Akaroa on the water’s edge

24 spacious 1, 2 & 3-brm units (14 waterfront) Quiet and central location Shops and restaurants handy On-site gym Private jetty – boats for hire Fun, friendly and relaxed

:

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WALKING MUST-DO’S 73

CANTERBURY

KURA TĀWHITI ACCESS TRACK

DEVILS PUNCHBOWL WALKING TRACK

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Feel the full force and hear the sound of fresh mountain water falling 131m down one of New Zealand’s most stunning waterfalls.

It’s suitable for a twilight/evening walk. If you venture out after dusk, there is a good chance you’ll hear or see one of the endangered great spotted kiwi/roroa, the ‘mountaineer’ of kiwi. Listen for a loud snuffling or a harsh whistling cry and you’ll know one is close by.

If you are lucky enough to see a bird don’t pursue or interfere with it or take photographs using your flash.

A head-torch with an infrared light is recommended for evening walks.

Wander through majestic limestone rock formations and reflect on the significance of Kura Tāwhiti (Castle Hill) to Ngāi Tahu as ‘the treasure from a distant land’.

TRACK OVERVIEW From the start of the walk, follow the footbridge across the Bealey River. The next bridge, over Devils Punchbowl Creek, has a good view of the waterfall.

From here, wander through lush beech forest with friendly fantails/ pīwakawaka and tomtits before climbing 150m up a series of steps to a viewing platform at the base of this spectacular waterfall. Return on the same track. The top of this incredible 131m waterfall can be seen from the main road. This walk to the base can be enjoyed all year round.

The area was once under a large, shallow inland sea that began to fill in about 30 million years ago. Pressure over time caused extensive uplift, folding and faulting the Torlesse and Craigieburn ranges. The limestone rock has been eroded by water into these distinctive sculptured landforms.

Where is it?

From Christchurch, take SH 73 towards the West Coast. Kura Tāwhiti is beside the highway in the Waimakariri Basin, about 80 minutes from Christchurch.

20min return; 1.4km one way Low-to-moderate fitness required Mix of gentle rises to flat terrain

TRACK OVERVIEW Follow an easy access track to the site. From here there is a network of unmarked but worn tracks that go up and around large limestone formations, up to 30m high. These formations can be seen from the highway, but their size is best appreciated up close.

This world-renowned bouldering site has a rock-climbing code that respects the Tōpuni status (special protection) of these outcrops.

Low-to-moderate fitness is required for the flat terrain of this track.

Kura Tāwhiti is an alpine region, so be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.

No dogs

Where is it?

The track starts at the northern end of Arthur’s Pass village, just off SH 73 at the Punchbowl car park (signposted off the highway).

Terrain Note that low-to-moderate fitness is required for this track as it has a gradual incline with steps. Some people may find the large number of steps challenging.

ABOVE: Devils Punchbowl © Department of Conservation RIGHT: Kura Tāwhiti (Castle Hill) © Getty Images

1hr return; 2km return Low-to-moderate fitness required Gradual incline and steps No dogs

Arthur’s Pass Alpine Motel Main Rd (SH 73), Arthur’s Pass Village www.apam.co.nz FREEPHONE: 0800 900 401

• Our clean, warm and cosy cabins each sleep 1-5 guests.

• All with own bathroom, kitchen, dining table and couch.

• Listen for kiwi, watch kea play, enjoy nature at its best.

• Walk one of the nearby tracks in Arthur’s Pass National Park.

• Free WiFi, TV and DVD player in all rooms.

• Tariff: $95-$155 for 1-2 guests, extra adults $25, extra children $15. Multi-night discounts.

BOOK DIRECT FOR BEST PRICE: info@apam.co.nz

74

WANT MORE?

While in the Waimakariri region, why not take advantage of the walking tracks in the native forestcovered foothills of Mt Thomas and Mt Oxford conservation parks? Or give your feet a rest with a horseback ride, canyoning in Glentui or a cruise up the Kaiapoi River.

PEEL FOREST PARK SCENIC RESERVE WALKS 7

CAROLINE BAY, TIMARU BOTANIC GARDENS & CENTENNIAL PARK WALKS 8

Dogs are allowed on the beach in winter only

Three walks, one with views, one with gardens and one that offers some wilderness close to town.

Where is it?

From 30min to 1.5hr

Central Timaru is the starting point for the Caroline Bay and Botanic Gardens trails and Claremont Rd for the Centennial Park walks.

Easy to average fitness required

Terrain Paved paths and steps for the urban walks; unpaved but well-constructed paths in Centennial Park.

Peel Forest, Geraldine © Getty Images

Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve is a large, DOC administered native bush reserve with a variety of trails from 30min to 3hr.

Where is it?

22km north of Geraldine. Follow SH 72 and after the Orari Bridge turn onto Geraldine-Arundel Rd, then left onto Peel Forest Rd. Various tracks leave from this road; others can be accessed from Blandswood Rd.

Extra for experts Peel Forest Park Camping Ground is an ideal base from which to explore the park’s many trails.

A few minutes to a few hours Medium fitness required Easy walking to challenging trails No dogs

Easy tramping track

TRACK OVERVIEW TRACK OVERVIEW From easy walking across boardwalks and flat, wellformed paths to steeper more challenging bush trails, this reserve is blessed with variety. Remnants of kahikatea swamp forest, giant tōtara, māhoe, kōwhai, kānuka and fuchsia are delightful elements to the park, along with waterfalls and plentiful birdlife. There’s also history here, with saw pits, tramway routes and artefacts from the milling days of the mid-19th century. Fortunately, they weren’t all logged. An accessible highlight is the Big Tree Walk which takes in several of the remaining giants, including a tōtara almost 3m across.

Fun Fact: At least 10 species of native birds can be found here including the native wood pigeon/kererū.

97 Talbot St, Geraldine, South Canterbury | Ph: +64 3 693 8501 Hosts: Joseph & Mayumi and David & Helley RESERVATIONS: 0800 400 404

S PA C I O U S U N I T S

This walk starts at the piazza steps and 30-45 minutes later – having meandered along the coast, up the cliff path for a view of the coast, past rose gardens, fountains, an aviary and tearooms – returns there. While in the area, Timaru Botanic Gardens trail is another delightful half-hour option. Start at the Queen St entrance, walk up past the conservatory and fernery to the rose gardens, past the hospital and duck pond to the Queen Victoria Sunken Garden, then downhill to the aviary. For a longer walk, head to the Centennial Park where, from Otipua Rd bridge, you can follow a track for about an hour and a half past a lake, through bush.

explore

WAIMATE DISTRICT

Explore walking and biking tracks for all abilities.

From native bush or picturesque waterfalls to gentle riverside strolls or steep challenging peaks - the choice is yours.

Hand feed tame wallabies.

Marvel at the silo art or immerse yourself in local history.

Experience stunning landscapes. Enjoy markets and shopping. info@geraldinemotels.co.nz • www.geraldinemotels.co.nz • Quality, spacious family & studio • Free WIFI • Pets welcome units, being fully self-contained • Short walk to town and sleeps 2-6 persons • River walk • Off-street & covered parking GS:T[\ • Large garden, BBQ & playground Tariff: (Oct 18- Sep19) $110‑$150 (2 persons), extra $20.

Casual dining or fine dining ̶ take your pick.

GO TO OUR WEBSITE TO VIEW ALL OF OUR INCREDIBLE TRACKS.

waimate.org.nz

WALKING MUST-DO’S 75

LOWER SOUTH ISLAND

Walking Must-Do’s of Lower South Island The Remarkables © Rachel King

Lake Hāwea

Mount Aspiring National Park

Milford Sound/ Piopiotahi Milford Sound

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Kurow

Wānaka

Glenorchy

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4

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Arrowtown

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2

Queenstown

Cromwell

Naseby

Ōamaru 1

Ranfurly Moeraki

Alexandra

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Macraes Roxburgh

6

Te Anau

Manapōuri

94

Port Chalmers

Waikaia

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96

99

Tapanui

Gore 96

Winton

Tuatapere

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9

Otago Peninsula

DUNEDIN Mosgiel

Mossburn Fiordland National Park

© The Remarkables

Waikouaiti 87

85

7

Palmerston

Middlemarch

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1

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85

Clyde

Doubtful Sound/ Pātea

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Duntroon

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1

Kākā Point Owaka

1 Colac Bay

INVERCARGILL

Fov ea ux

Oban / Halfmoon Bay Stewart Is. /Rakiura

The Catlins

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Pūrākaunui Catlins Coast

Slope Point

WALKS

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it ra

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Bluff

Milton

Balclutha

Edendale

Riverton/Aparima

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8

1

ROYS PEAK TRACK

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QUEENSTOWN HILL TIME WALK

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BANNOCKBURN SLUICINGS

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ROUTEBURN TRACK

10 NUGGET POINT/TOKATA WALKS

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MILFORD TRACK

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KEPLER TRACK

11 CATHEDRAL CAVES WALK

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SOUTH HILL WALKWAY

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MOERAKI BOULDERS BEACH WALK & MILLENNIUM WALKWAY

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HARBOURSIDE PATH, DUNEDIN

12 RAKIURA TRACK

HIGHLIGHTS • Chug across Queenstown's Lake Wakatipu aboard the 107-year-old TSS Earnslaw steamship.

• Soar up steep mountainside to Bob’s Peak on the Queenstown gondola and then zoom halfway back down on the renowned luge.

• Try Gibbston Valley's world-famous wine and lock lips with Central Otago’s tastiest export, pinot noir.

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• Cardrona Distillery is the world's most southern whisky distillery and Cardrona Hotel opened in 1863. Admire the vintage Chrysler parked outside and head to the beer garden.

• Visit one of the four islands sprinkled across Wanaka’s glass-like lake.

• In Arrowtown, heritage buildings flank wide, leafy streets and there's a former 1880s village once occupied by Chinese gold miners.

• Ōamaru boasts tiny blue penguins, steampunk culture and an historic Victorian precinct.

• The sphere-shaped Moeraki Boulders are always captivating.

• The Catlins’ roving roads are a driver’s dream and Stewart Island (New Zealand’s third island) offers a wild, rugged excuse to get off the grid.

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Where is it?

ROYS PEAK TRACK

A 10-minute drive from Wanaka.

Terrain Steep walking track with a continuous climb. Exposed to the elements throughout.

Good to know The track is on private property and closed from 1 October to 10 November for lambing.

No dogs

Wanaka Tree

TRACK OVERVIEW

Roys Peak © Getty Images

The Insta-influencers have made this already popular track even more sought after. Notably for the photographic viewpoint that appears approximately one hour before the summit. It is here you will find a narrow, exposed path leading to a vantage point with views as far as the eye can see. Feast your retinas on Lake Wanaka, its islands and surrounding valleys. Further up you will reach Roys Peak itself, where Mt Aspiring sits grandly in the background.

There is nothing technical about this hike, but the incline zigzags relentlessly to the top. Expect a steady slog uphill with very few shaded areas. You’ll descend via the same track, or if you choose to hike up in the afternoon, camp overnight and catch sunrise the following day.

Wanaka Lone Tree © Getty Images

5-6hr return; 16km High fitness required Strenuous, uphill gradient

Find the famous Wanaka Tree Known as the ‘Lone Tree of Lake Wanaka’. The crooked trunk of New Zealand’s most photogenic tree is now more iconic than the lake. Somewhat a reluctant celebrity, this willow doesn’t reveal its whereabouts too easily.

From town, face the lake and meander left along the water’s edge – you will eventually reach the leafy idol. Following a flurry of excitement on social media, hordes now flock here with cameras, selfie sticks and drones in tow.

QUEENSTOWN IS FOR EVERYONE Kayaking in Abel Tasman

Whatever your disposition, Queenstown has something © Epic Trails to satisfy.

Breathe in Queenstown’s fresh alpine air and explore a year-round playground created entirely by nature. Discover enjoyment that stretches as far as the ski field and as close as your dinner plate.

Slow down or seek adventure, relaxation is both low-key and high adrenalin. Yes, thrills come in all shapes and sizes here.

Aquatic adventures range from sedate kayaking down Dart River, to sliding off waterfalls with a canyoning group. River board the rapids of Kawarau River, jet boat, cruise, or commandeer a three-wheeled aqua bike on Lake Wakatipu.

Wanaka really is Mother Nature’s greatest masterpiece. Far-flung glaciers feed an ethereal lake, while snow-frosted mountains admire their reflection in the water.

Everyone loves to scale the mountainside in Queenstown’s gondola, and at the top, the luge provides hours of fun. Rug up and bunker down in an ice bar, try your hand at frisbee golf in Queenstown Gardens or bounce along (up and under) Lake Wakatipu in a sharkdesigned submersible boat called Hydro Attack.

Enjoy exclusive use of an outdoor hot tub or treat yourself to a romantic dinner. Chow down on a famous Ferg Burger (it'd be rude not to) or follow in the footsteps of your favourite Lord of the Rings' character. In Queentown, if you can think of it, you can likely do it.

WALKING MUST-DO’S 77

LOWER SOUTH ISLAND Queenstown Hill © Getty Images

QUEENSTOWN HILL TIME WALK 2

So close to the bustling centre of Queenstown, this peaceful walk offers astonishing views when you get to the lookout at the Basket of Dreams sculpture.

Where is it?

Well signposted, it starts and ends at Belfast Tce, Queenstown.

Terrain Forest paths, some rocks, it can be muddy after rain.

Good to know

2hr return, add 30min to summit; 2.5km to summit

The Sawpit Gully Trail is an

enjoyable two to three-hour loop track that departs

Moderate fitness required

from the car park near the Chinese Settlement in Arrowtown and climbs to Sawpit Gully.

O

For dramatic river and mountain scenery, Arrowtown is hard to beat. Head off in any direction and you’ll find a spectacular track with breath taking vistas. Just don’t forget your camera - you won’t be disappointed.

Trails are suitable year round and are for all fitness levels from easy 10 minute strolls along the river to more rigorous walks and everything in between.

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No dogs. Sheep grazing, and part of the walk is on private land.

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Gentle gradient

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Walk Arrowtown – return to nature

Set off beneath a forest of Douglas firs. At a point in the trail you will reach a fork; if you go left, the trail is steeper, rockier and shorter than the other path. If you choose to go right, the walk is longer but easier with several information panels along the way. When you arrive at the lookout you’ll find the Basket of Dreams sculpture, a work made of steel by artist Caroline Robinson. There you will enjoy views over the Wakatipu Basin across to The Remarkables, Cecil Peak and down to Queenstown Bay.

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WANT MORE?

You can also do the track by bike, although you have to be a confident rider as there are steep elements.

Riders and walkers need to share with care.

TRACK OVERVIEW

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Arrowtown’s the perfect hub. You can stroll around historic sites, soak up the atmosphere at one of the renowned eateries, or enjoy the classy shopping. The Lakes District Museum has trail maps to help choose your best cycling or walking option.

From Queenstown take the public bus, or only 20 minutes by car.

Visit our website ARROWTOWN.COM

3

BANNOCKBURN SLUICINGS

TRACK OVERVIEW The walking track gradually climbs up above the cliff faces, where you have a wide view of how people from the past and present have shaped this land. This desert is not a natural site, but the 150-year-old aftermath of the Otago gold rush. It was created by a technique known as ‘hydraulic sluicing’ where water was blasted at the hills to release the gold.

What looks desolate from the entrance turns into a rough, raw and rewarding walk through a valley of caves, tunnels and rock tailings left untouched since abandoned by the last of the gold miners.

Dogs on a leash only

The spectacular landscape of the Bannockburn Sluicings near Cromwell can be explored on foot or by mountain bike.

1.5hr; 3.5km loop track

Where is it?

Moderate fitness required Cliff faces and steps

Cromwell's gold flux may have dried up since its 19th century heyday, but the same can’t be said for its rich harvest. Regarded as the ‘fruit bowl of the south’, summer brings peaches, nectarines, apricots and cherries, while vineyards pour a multitude of pleasant drops.

Travel 6km southwest through Cromwell, and cross Lake Dunstan to get to Bannockburn. This site can be accessed from Felton Rd. For those with little time, there are vantage points that can be reached by car, and walks that take just 10 minutes.

If you’ve got more time to spare, trace the water source back up to the Menzies Dam in Stewart Town. There are remains of a stone cottage, an early 19th century orchard, and great views across Cromwell and Bailey’s Gully.

Terrain Moderate fitness is required as this walk climbs up above the cliff faces and includes steps. There are vantage points that can be reached by car and smaller walks also.

LEFT: Misha's Vineyard © Image Central ABOVE: Walking in the Bannockburn countryside © Getty Images INSET: Bannockburn vineyard © Suellen Boag

WALKING MUST-DO’S 79

LOWER SOUTH ISLAND Routeburn Track © Miles Holden / Tourism NZ

ROUTEBURN TRACK 4

One of the Great Walks, this trail features alpine landscapes, waterways, valleys and sublime views of the Routeburn Falls, Hollyford Mountains and Darren Mountains.

During the Great Walks season (end of October to the start of May), you'll need to book your space in one of the huts.

Need to know

Until 7 December 2020, the section from Lake Mackenzie Hut to The Divide is closed due to significant storm damage. While the track is repaired, you can only do a return walk from Routeburn Shelter and go as far as Lake Mackenzie Hut.

Avoid the Routeburn Track from May to September, when there is a higher risk of avalanches.

Bush trails, mountain paths, boardwalks, some steep sections.

Where is it?

Most people start at the Routeburn Shelter near Glenorchy in the east, 45 minutes from Queenstown.

Terrain

TRACK OVERVIEW

No dogs 2-4 days; 33km Moderate fitness required Intermediate tramping track

The birdlife is in excellent health so look out for korimako (bellbirds) and the tiny fearless toutouwai (robins), as well as kea, the alpine parrot famous for its cheeky ways.

Routeburn Falls Lodge © Ultimate Hikes Date:

16 May 2019

Job Details: Logo Design

Walk through Mt Aspiring National Park and Fiordland National Park and find yourself surrounded by mountains in territory featuring swing bridges, lakes, waterfalls, grassy flats and rushing waterways.

For many hikers the Harris Saddle is a highlight, at 1250m above sea level. This point links the Mt Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks and is home to heart-shaped Harris Lake, with views that lift the spirit, depending on the quantity of mist, cloud and rain.

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ADEN MOTEL

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• A Kiwiana Style • Relaxed, homely place to stay • Full cooking facilities • Quiet location, studio, 1, 2 & 3‑brm units • Tour bookings arranged, local knowledge is best • 10min stroll to town centre, 100m to lakefront • Environmentally friendly • FREE WiFi • Playground & BBQ area

Check www.adenmotel.co.nz for current best rates & to book 80

Lakefront Lodge

Te Anau

• Upmarket complex for business or pleasure.

• Superb ground-floor SPA, 1-brm & studio kitchen units.

• Continental breakfasts.

• Close to town. Free tour desk/ storage/unlimited WiFi. • Tariff: $160-$295, extra $30, seasonal.

Reservations: 0800

525 337

Cnr Lakefront Dr & Mokoroa St, Te Anau • Ph: +64 3 249 7728 www.lakefrontlodgeteanau.com • Email: stay@lakefrontlodgeteanau.com

5

Milford Track BELOW: Milford Sound Cruise BOTH IMAGES: © Real Journeys

MILFORD TRACK

One of the world’s best-loved multi-day walks and one of this country's Great Walks, it features lakes, mountains and views to remember forever.

Where is it?

Start at Glade Wharf at the head of Lake Te Anau, 27km from the township. Finish at Sandfly Point, Milford Sounds.

Need to know You may only walk in one direction and you must take a boat to the start at Glade Wharf. The final leg from Sandfly Point is also by boat through the majestic Milford Sound.

Terrain Well-formed bush and forest tracks, some steps, dirt, gravel, very steep in parts and it can be slippery after rain.

No dogs

Most do it in 4 days; 53.5km Intermediate fitness required Very steep in parts

TRACK OVERVIEW

MILFORD SOUND You will want to relive the moment you first set eyes on Milford Sound over and over again. For as much as you’re told it’s a thing of staggering beauty, nothing can prepare you for the real deal. Don't forget to pack essential items such as insect repellent and raincoats. The months between September and December are usually the wettest.

Valley vistas, lakes that reflect like mirrors when the wind isn’t blowing, mountain ranges and all manner of wildlife, most of it with wings, Milford Track has been charming visitors for over 150 years.

Whether you walk independently or take a guided walk for a more comfortable experience, this is a seriously stunning adventure.

Mackinnon Pass is the steepest section and many walkers are glad to have poles to take the strain off their knees. There are three huts on the Milford Track and they must be booked ahead of the Great Walks season from the end of October to the start of May. Milford Track prepared; it rains here 182 days of the year. Many Milford ©Be Getty Images devotees say the walk is improved when the weather is moody so perhaps it’s best to subscribe to the old adage, ‘there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad gear’.

WALKING MUST-DO’S 81

LOWER SOUTH ISLAND 6

KEPLER TRACK

Kepler Track © Rob Suisted / Destination Fiordland

SOUTH HILL WALKWAY 7

TRACK OVERVIEW Running between Takaro Park and Lookout Point, the South Hill Walkway winds its way through Ōamaru’s fascinating historic precinct then takes you up to the lookout with an option to detour to the Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony.

The track connects with the Skyline Walk which provides excellent views of Ōamaru, too.

One of the Great Walks, this charming adventure features stunning lakes, rivers and bridges, alpine scenery and an everchanging landscape that includes tussock and towering forests.

Good to know Make bookings in advance for huts and campsites through the Department of Conservation.

3-4 days; 60km loop

Where is it?

Start at the Kepler Track car park, 5km from Te Anau township. Many people choose to start in Te Anau.

Intermediate fitness required

Terrain Gravel, rock, dirt, largely wellformed forest tracks and alpine trails.

Some climbing

TRACK OVERVIEW For visitors eager to experience the highlights of Fiordland, the Kepler Track is ideal because in a way it’s Fiordland’s ‘best of’ album, featuring mountain ranges, ridge walking, lakes, forests, waterfalls and glacier-carved valleys. The birdlife is flourishing and you could spy kea, weka and pīwakawaka (fantails) along with kererū, kaka

www.fiordland.org.nz

Milford Track Kepler Track Routeburn Track Fiordland National Park

82

and even kiwi. There are three huts and two campsites to choose from. At the Luxmore Hut, make a detour to explore the Luxmore Caves and pack a swimsuit as there are several spots that are perfect for a dip.

No dogs

Official Visitor Website for

Fiordland

Little blue penguin © Getty Images

A walk right in the heart of Ōamaru featuring delightful coastal views, native forest and fabulous birdlife as well as an introduction to Ōamaru’s historic landmarks.

Terrain Hills, grass tracks, beach with rocks and some urban elements.

30min; 2km Average fitness required Some hills and grass tracks

Admire the world's smallest penguins at Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony. Every night, they waddle up the beach, returning from a full day at sea.

MOERAKI BOULDERS BEACH WALK & MILLENNIUM WALKWAY 8

Moeraki Boulders, Otago Coast © Getty Images

3hr return; extra 1.7km along Koekohe Beach to boulders Average fitness required Some steps No dogs

The Millennium Walkway is a lovely coastal walk, well-signposted and dotted with information boards.

Where is it?

Start at Moeraki Point, between Moeraki and Hampden on the coast of Otago.

Terrain Tracks, boardwalks, steps, stiles, beach.

Need to know

Ōamaru's Victorian Precinct © AATP

Ensure the tide is low.

The easy option You can visit the boulders by walking a short 150m loop from the café to view the boulders from above, which also makes it possible for people in strollers and wheelchairs to enjoy this spectacle.

TRACK OVERVIEW The Moeraki Boulders are geological wonders, giant orbs of sedimentary rocks that were created 13-65 million years ago and exposed by erosion. Many people start The Millennium Walk at the Moeraki Village lookout, strolling past Puke Mataa, the ancient pā site, before setting off around towards Millers Bay.

• Stunning views & beach frontage • Motel units, tourist flats, cabins, bunkroom (8 people) • Modern facilities, power points & tent sites • WiFi available • Close to penguins, seals, restaurants • Tariff: From (2 persons) $70$160, tent/power sites $40 114 Haven St, Moeraki, Otago • Ph/Fax: +64 3 439 4759 Email: moerakivillageholidaypark@xtra.co.nz www.moerakivillageholidaypark.co.nz Hosts: Kristina & Robbie Mitchell

ŌAMARU A sea-facing township chock-a-block with Victorian architecture, Ōamaru is a handsome time warp. The Victorian Precinct is where you'll find the largest collection of 1800s buildings, notably along Harbour St, but there are plenty scattered around downtown, too.

Several quirky art galleries exist behind unassuming stone doors so don’t hesitate to pull one ajar and peek inside. Kookiness is everywhere, from Steampunk HQ, dedicated to the Victorian era's very own science fiction genre, to the eccentric elements of various cafés, in Ōamaru, they know how to surprise and delight their guests.

WALKING MUST-DO’S 83

LOWER SOUTH ISLAND

HARBOURSIDE PATH 9

Designed for walkers and cyclists, this path is just the beginning of a longer, wonderfully picturesque adventure. With seabirds, ships, sailboats and refreshing sea breezes in the mix, it’s hard to imagine a better family walk so close to a major city.

Where is it?

Along the edge of Otago Harbour from Vauxhall at the head of the harbour to St Leonards on the way to Port Chalmers. Note there are other stretches of this project under construction, including along the peninsula from Vauxhall to Macandrew Bay.

Port Chalmers lookout © Dunedin NZ

TRACK OVERVIEW Eventually there will be a path from Port Chalmers all the way around to Otago Peninsula with a total distance of 42km. That’s a few years away but meanwhile, a good chunk of it can be enjoyed, tracing the harbour edge. From Vauxhall Yacht Club on Portobello Rd, the path crosses the causeway, winds through the harbourside precinct and crosses the Water of Leigh at its mouth, by way of an inspiring, architecturally-designed bridge near the Forsyth Barr Stadium. From there, it continues along the harbour edge to St Leonards. It’s an accessible, achievable, good fun walk with lots of interest and plenty of photo opportunities, too, with Mt Cargill and the peninsula providing the backdrop.

Approx 1hr 15min each way; 6km Low fitness required – great for families Flat, sealed and well-maintained Dogs allowed

Dandy Dunedin Compact and handsome, Dunedin is dressed in Edwardian and Victorian architecture, entwined with intriguing alleyways, boutique stores, cafés and gardens. It's also very walkable, which should please readers who have picked up this guide!

DUNEDIN NEW ZEALAND 594 Great King Street, PO Box 112, Dunedin, NZ Tel­: +64 3 477 0270 Email: woodlandsvillage@xtra.co.nz Book direct for best deal!

• Choice of 77 rooms with private facilities-suite, economy, standard room or shared dorm rooms, (sleep 1-4).

• Centrally located within 500m to the Octagon, Railway Station, Settlers Museum, cafés and main shopping area.

• Our facilities include bar, lounge, garden courtyard, laundry, accessibility room, luggage and cycle storage.

• Free off-street parking available, 24-hour check-in and local tours arranged.

• Free WiFi for guests, daily limits apply.

• Tariff: From Shared Dorm $29, Backpacker pvt $89 (2p), Hotel Single $99, Double/Twin $120-$145, Triple/Quad $170, Suite $175.

27 Queens Gardens, Dunedin +Ph:64 3 477 3160 E: leviathan@xtra.co.nz • www.dunedinhotel.co.nz

Freephone: 0800 773 773

84

Book direct for best deal!

• Spacious, self-contained 1 and 2-bedroom units (sleeps 1 to 8 persons).

• Full kitchens, on-site laundry, free unlimited WiFi, off-street parking.

• Guest BBQ & playground, enclosed by established gardens in a park-like setting.

• Centrally located, close to University, Hospital, retail shops, restaurants and cafés.

• Easy walking distance to Stadium, KFC, McDonalds, pizza outlets & supermarkets.

• Weekly rates available on request.

Tariff: From $130-$165 (2 persons), extra person $20

www.motel594.co.nz • Freephone: 0508

594 594

NUGGET POINT/ TOKATA WALKS 10

Beautiful scenery, flourishing wildlife and a lighthouse. Also great viewing of the Aurora Australis, otherwise known as the Southern Lights, from here.

Where is it?

On the Catlins Coast, drive along from Kaka Point and pull in at Kaimātaitai car park.

Terrain The pathway leads to a platform at the base of the lighthouse and the path is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.

Bright idea The time to view the phenomenon of Aurora Australis is during winter.

No dogs 10-20min return; other longer tracks as well Low fitness required Easy walking track

TRACK OVERVIEW Walk to where the land thrusts out into the sea and visit one of the country’s oldest lighthouses, where it clings to the rocks above the surging sea.

Originally called Tokata

by Māori, Captain Cook dubbed the land mass Nugget Point due to its resemblance to pieces of gold. The short walk to the lighthouse is particularly popular at sunrise and sunset, when the colours are sensational. Look to the rocks below and see fur seals going about their lives. Also look for elephant seals, sea lions, yellow-eyed penguins and Hector’s dolphins. Spoonbills, sooty shearwaters and gannets also make their presence felt round these waters.

LEFT: Nugget Point, Catlins Coast © www.cluthanz.com

A magical mystical coastal cave trail. Explore the cliffs at the north end of Waipati Beach and discover two passages carved by the ocean, close to 200m long and 30m wide.

Where is it?

Chaslands Rd, The Catlins.

15km south of Papatōwai Village, 2km from the main road.

Terrain Bush track, beach walking, cave interiors.

Need to know Access to Cathedral Caves is only possible one and a half hours either side of low tide and only from late October to May. Adults $5, children $1, no EFTPOS. Be sure to take a torch. Insect repellent can also be handy.

To safeguard the wildlife, no dogs RIGHT: Cathedral Caves © Getty Images

TRACK OVERVIEW Walk through lush coastal bush, along the beach and into the caves which are said to be some of the longest of this kind in the world. Formed due to millions of years of erosion, there is something really extraordinary about these caverns, while the acoustics of voices and waves within the huge spaces can feel most eerie. Plan your visit around low tide and expect to get your feet wet. Do look out for penguins and sea lions; do not approach any of the wildlife.

11

CATHEDRAL CAVES WALK

30min each way; 2km return Easy fitness required Easy walk WALKING MUST-DO’S 85

LOWER SOUTH ISLAND 12

RAKIURA TRACK

THE WALKING COUNTRY WE ALL DREAM OF...

Mavora - Greenstone Walkway

Welcome Rock Trail

Te Anau

Piano Flat Loop Track

Lumsden Big Totara Walk

Whisky Creek Track

Hump Ridge Track

Tuatapere

Gore

Long Hilly Track

Forest Hill Track

The Catlins Foveaux Walkway

Invercargill

Waipohatu Track

Rakiura Track

WALK FOR A FEW MINUTES, WALK FOR A FEW HOURS, OR WALK FOR A FEW DAYS...

86

Stewart Is. southlandnz.com/greatwalking

Rakiura, Stewart Island © Southland Tourism

Escape on an island adventure and exchange the hustle and bustle of mainland life for the tranquillity of the Rakiura Track – one of the Great Walks. Revel in the peacefulness and idyllic surroundings with the bush, birds and beach at your side.

relics dispersed along the track.

Enjoy stunning coastal views and get absorbed in lush and dense virgin forest and regenerating podocarp forest on this leisurely circular track.

Oban, Stewart Island/Rakiura. Take a 20min flight from Invercargill or a 1hr ferry trip across Foveaux Strait from the southern port of Bluff.

This is the ultimate island wilderness experience and a taste of the way New Zealand used to be. You’ll be welcomed by a cacophony of native birdsong and a warm greeting from the locals in the tiny settlement of Oban.

During the Great Walks season you will need to book your space in advance, so planning ahead is essential.

The amazing Rakiura tokoeka/kiwi (unlike their cousins further north) can sometimes be seen foraging during daylight hours and can often be heard calling at the day’s end.

Immerse yourself in the history, from early Māori settlement sites around Māori Beach and Port William/Potirepo, to sawmilling

If you get the chance, visit iconic Ulva Island/Te Wharawhara, off Stewart Island/Rakiura, a beautiful island sanctuary open to the public.

Where is it?

Good to know

No dogs

3 days/2 nights; 32km Medium fitness required Intermediate tramping track

TRACK OVERVIEW On the first day enjoy stunning coastal views from Lee Bay to picturesque Little River.

Continue around to walk along Māori Beach. After the swing bridge, climb up the forested ridge then down to the hut.

The next day you will walk through beautiful regenerating podocarp forest, as well as lush and dense virgin forest.

The track descends to North Arm on Paterson Inlet.

On the third day the track goes through native forest of kāmahi and rimu, with wonderful views across the inlet. Continue to follow the coast down to secluded bays, with historic mill sites along the way. Sawdust Bay has tidal mudflats, making it a great spot to watch wading birds feeding at low tide. The track ends at Fern Gully car park, 2km from Oban.

Bluff Camping Ground • Closest to the city centre • Supermarket 50m • Cafés, restaurants & theatre 500m • Southern Institute of Technology & Workingmen’s Club 200m • Centrally heated rooms • Spa units • SKY 50+ channels • FREE WIFI • Off-street parking • Airport 4min drive • Tariff: Studios from $140, corporate & group rates available

RESERVATIONS ONLY: 0800 888 234

www.birchwoodmanor.co.nz

21 Gregory St (off Marine Pde), Bluff • Phone: +64 27 626 2018 Email: procter01@xtra.co.nz • www.bluffcampingground.co.nz

189 Tay St (SH 1), Invercargill • P: +64 3 218 8881 • E: birch@birchwood.co.nz

Queens Park Motels

Queens Park Golf Course

QUEENS DR

KELVIN ST

To Queenstown

DEE ST

SH 6 To Bluff

Queens Park Motel

GALA ST City Centre TAY ST

To Dunedin

Reservations: 0800 800 504

Unlimited FREE WiFi

• Off the main roads • QUIET • Walk through our back gate into Queens Park • Close to Southern Cross Hospital, Club Southland & Southland Boys High School. 3-6min drive to inner city, Rugby Park, Stadium Southland & Velodrome, Splash Palace, airport, restaurants and Rowena Jackson Retirement Village • Ideal for families, couples, large sporting & cultural groups • Clean, tidy studio, 1-brm, 6 x 2-brm family units, self-contained for families and business • Children’s playground & park next door • Airport pick-up by arrangement/car storage for Stewart Island travellers Tariff: $130-$160 (1-2 persons), extra $20, under 12yrs $15, under 5yrs free, seasonal/corporate rates.

85 Alice St, Invercargill • Ph: +64 3 214 4504 M: +64 27 786 8627 Email: quietstay@queensparkmotels.co.nz www.queensparkmotels.co.nz

HERBERT ST

WIFI

• For your stop-off to Stewart Island • Hard & grass powered sites • An ideal base for shark-cage diving • Centrally located • Kitchen & dining area with deck & harbourside views • Showers & laundry • Children’s playground • Waste station

6

ALICE ST

Unlimited

www.stewartislandflights.com Stewart Island Flights offer multiple scheduled flights daily - Invercargill to Halfmoon Bay (Oban) return. 20min flight.

Courtesy shuttle from airport to township.

• Fly direct to Mason Bay (Kiwi Spotting), Doughboy Bay, West Ruggedy beach.

• Ask about our day trip activity packages and bus tours • Coast to Coast fly/trek/boat wilderness adventure • Exclusive guided kiwi viewing tours (1.5 - 2 hour trip)

Scan for website

Your ticket to adventure & tranquillity Ph +64 3 218 9129 email info@stewartislandflights.co.nz

WALKING MUST-DO’S 87

LOWER SOUTH ISLAND Rakiura Track, Stewart Island © Southland Tourism

STEWART ISLAND

Falcon © Shellie Evans

Sitting 30km off the South Island, Stewart Island is New Zealand's third-largest motu. Known as Rakiura Island in Māori (glowing skies), in winter the Southern Lights illuminate the sky. On land, the terrain is dense with both forest and wildlife, notably because predators are scarce.

Enjoy the simple pleasures that come with the slower pace of life on Stewart Island. As New Zealand's southern-most island, it’s also the most remote, so if you’re looking for off-the-beaten track experiences, look no further.

Accessed via a one-hour ferry journey with Stewart Island Ferry Services from Bluff, or a 20-minute flight from Invercargill, it’s easy to get away from it all. Almost 90 percent of the island is National Park and it’s in this largely untamed wilderness that you can have a real adventure. Aside from the Rakiura Track, Stewart Island is famed for its clear, pollution-free sky and Dark Sky Sanctuary status. From March through to September, there's a high probability of seeing Aurora Australis, also known as the Southern Lights.

88

Through the regenerating bush and subalpine scrub, look and listen out for kea, falcon, tūī, bellbird, grey warbler and shining and long-tailed cuckoo.

Away from the bush, pristine beaches and pretty bays are just as numerous. Sheltered Bathing Beach is just a short walk from the main settlement of Oban, and on the way there (or back) it is an absolute must to stop for fish and chips from Kai Kart.

Explore the completely predatorfree environment of Ulva Island and admire the vast number of bird species. It’s no secret that the chance of spotting kiwi on Stewart Island is high, with the Stewart Island Brown Kiwi often spied scuttling hither and thither.

There's also electric bike hire, fishing charters and full-day carving workshops at Rakiura Jade.

Whatever you choose, embrace 'island time' and enjoy the peace and quiet.

BLUFF Bluff is well known for its oysters and the famed Bluff Oyster Festival takes place every May, but there’s more than just shucking to be done here. Explore the historic port, jump on a boat to Stewart Island, find the AA signpost at Stirling Point and sigh at the views from atop Bluff Hill.

Bluff oysters © Miles Holden

Viewpoint from Skyline Queenstown © Getty Images

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