Need a break from the big city, or running away to New Zealand for the summer? We’ve got the insider track on some amazing getaway locations so you can take a break and relax in style.
Coromandel
Sure it might be home to the famous Hot Water Beach, and Cathedral Cove, some of the North Island’s biggest tourist sites, but if you know where to go, you can snatch yourself a village-feel retreat. We recommend visiting the beachfront town of Tairua, the hideaway that is Whitianga, or if you’re willing to drive a bit further, head to Matarangi and explore their stunning beaches.
Paihia
If you’re travelling North, we suggest popping into Paihia, a town famous for diving and surfing, but full of quiet and leisurely things to do, like a light trail to get panoramic views of Opua Forest, and more than a few boutique cafes. And if you did venture out to one of the many islands just off the coast, you’d be treated to a magical sunrise over the Pacific Ocean, enough to make anyone forget about their troubles.
Paraparaumu
If you’re flying into Wellington, Paraparaumu is ideally located, under an hour north of the capital. Backed by a huge forest and scenic reserve, the town is home to a beach so sandy you’ll never want to leave it. And if its small town gentle pace weren’t enough, it’s just a ferry ride away from Kapiti Island, where you can take a nature tour, and maybe even watch the sun fade out over the waves.
Akaroa (Banks Peninsula)
Heading down to the South Island, and just a short drive from Christchurch, you will find the small town of Akaroa. A hotspot for the Hector’s dolphins, the town is a pocket of civilization surrounded on all sides by nature’s best. Not to mention that each Saturday they host one of the fullest and freshest markets in the country.
Kaikoura
A gentle three hour drive north of Christchurch, Kaikoura is our West Coast gem. This time of year seals, whales and dolphins will be at the top of the sightseeing list. So take a chair down to the beach, listen to the waves, and maybe even spot some majestic sea life. Maybe even grab a blanket and try some fish and chips while the sun sets.
