Northern Explorer Beneath Ruapehu
1. See the world’s largest collection of Māori taonga
For a fascinating glimpse into early Māori culture, discover the largest collection in New Zealand and the of more than 1000 taonga (treasures) at the Auckland War Memorial Museum. From precious artefacts to original full-size marae and waka, enjoy learning more about New Zealand’s history and culture.
2. See the world’s largest penguin colony exhibit
See the penguins at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium, as well as the world’s only display of Spiny Sea Dragons, the biggest species of stingray on the globe, and an underwater aquarium of colorful fish. Feel free to book a shark dive while you are there for an adrenaline rush.
3. Rediscover a lost island
Rotoroa Island was re-opened to the public in 2005 after nearly 100 years. Once a private rehabilitation center, you can wander through the exhibition center and museum, visit the historic chapel, and jail house, and walk along beautiful white-sand beaches and bush trails.
4. Walk across the country in 5 hours
The Coast-to-Coast Walkway crosses New Zealand’s narrowest neck of land. Start in Viaduct Harbour on Auckland’s east coast and travel west through urban landscapes, beautiful parklands, and over dormant volcanoes to finish 10 miles later at Manukau Harbour.
5. Ferry to The Riverhead, New Zealand’s oldest riverside tavern
Retrace the route of the early Māori settlers and New Zealand’s first pioneers by taking a ferry to The Riverhead, New Zealand’s oldest historic riverside tavern. Enjoy a delightful meal overlooking the water, under the oak trees in summer or cozy and warm by the fire during winter.
6. Visit Great Barrier Island’s Dark Sky Sanctuary
Not only is Great Barrier Island a place of incredible beauty, it’s also the first island in the world to be designated as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary – joining only ten other locations. The island is off the grid and with minimal outdoor lighting, it’s a dream destination for stargazers to take in the stunning night skies.
7. Visit Waiheke Island ‘the island of wine’
Just a 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland, Waiheke Island is a slice or paradise as well as Auckland’s wine growing region. With some 30 wineries, visitors can join a wine tasting tour and linger over a vineyard lunch, taste local produce, or just sit back and enjoy the atmosphere in a local restaurant or bar.
8. Kayak to Rangitoto Island
Paddle to Rangitoto Island, a dormant volcano not far from downtown Auckland, on a Sunset Tour with Auckland Sea Kayaks. Walk up the old lava flows to the summit for 360-degree views of Auckland and, at the return to the water’s edge, enjoy a healthy Kiwi-style BBQ.
9. Board the “Shuckle Ferry”
Jump onboard the ‘Shuckle Ferry’ for a guided cruise along the pristine waters of Mahurangi Harbour. Sit back and breathe in the fresh and salty air with a wine in hand and be treated to plump and juicy Pacific oysters plucked from the seabed. And if you’re game, have a go at shucking the oysters for yourself.
10. SkyWalk and SkyJump at the Auckland Sky Tower
Standing at an impressive 328m high, the iconic Sky Tower is New Zealand’s tallest building. SkyWalk around the outside on a narrow platform 192m above the ground and take in the breath-taking views of the region or ‘SkyJump’ with nothing but a wire between you and the ground below.
Curated Vacation Packages
Has this article given you wanderlust? Take a look at our featured destination packages. Completely customizable, these act as an inspirational starting point in your travel planning journey.
