Stunning adventures await yacht crews and guests when in New Zealand and some of these abundant activities on offer reports APS New Zealand director, Duthie Lidgard.
Region of the month: Bay of Islands
The Bay of Islands is a New Zealand region encompassing more than 140 subtropical islands next to the country’s North Island. With a 3 hour drive, 35-minute flight or an hour by helicopter from Auckland, It is known for its undeveloped beaches, big-game fishing and Maori cultural artefacts.
It is also home to the 19th-century whaling port of Russell, whose waterfront promenade is lined with remnants from its days as the country’s first colonial capital. With a wide variety of activities to do such as exploring Waitangi, surfing, diving, fishing and sand duning, it is the ideal place to go for summer. With world-class service and luxury accommodation, why would you want to go anywhere else?
Glamping
Camping has long been a traditional holiday activity for Kiwis who love to pitch a tent, cook sausages on the barbeque and get back to nature – it is also one of the prime ways to experience the lakes, beaches and pure beauty of New Zealand countryside.
Now, for those who want a camping lifestyle with extra comfort, there’s growing demand and opportunities to experience a softer option. ‘Glamping’ (derived from glamorous camping) is an international travel phenomenon and New Zealand offers some of the world’s best locations.
With summer on the horizon, we propose that you make the most of the good weather by giving the beach a miss and instead reacquainting yourself with our beautiful country’s natural side. With an array of well-equipped, spacious and super comfortable glamping sites situated in only the most picturesque surrounds, we’ve rounded up the following list of inspirational sojourns.
In incredible areas such as Raglan, Lake Wanaka, Taupo, Bay of Islands, Kaikoura and on Slipper Island just to name a few, this form of luxury is perfect for you to truly capture all the beauty New Zealand has to offer. However, book with haste as these sophisticated under-the-stars stays are sure to get snapped up quickly.
Tracks in Auckland
Explore rocky coastlines and sheltered bays. Lush native forest and wide open countryside. Pounding surf and trickling streams. Remote wildlife sanctuaries and bustling city streets.
Whether you want to walk, hike, run, bike or horse ride – there is a wide range of tracks situations in the Auckland region for all levels of experience.
Mountain biking tracks include:
- Hunua
- Puhinui Reserve
- Woodhill
- Royal Albany
- Sanders Reserve
- Ambury Park
- Runway MTB Park
- Arch Hill
Walking tracks include:
- Long Bay Regional Park Track
- North Shore Coastal Walk
- Rangitoto Island Summit Walk
- Hunua Falls Upper Lookout Walk
- Hillary Trail – Waitakere Ranges
- Kitekite Track – Piha
- Coast to Coast Walkway
- Aotea Track – Great Barrier Island
All of these tracks allow for a wide range of expertise and can be done by yourself, or in a group!