North Island

This blog will have posts about destinations in the North Island of Aotearoa New Zealand

Exploring the Charming Towns of Taranaki – Coast, Culture & Countryside

Aotearoa-New Zealand, North Island, Taranaki Region /

The Taranaki region is more than just its soaring maunga and wild coast — it’s also a land of vibrant towns and villages, each shaped by their surroundings and history. These communities are places where you can slow down, connect with locals, and uncover hidden treasures. From art-filled streets and beachside escapes to heritage townships […]

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Exploring Mt Taranaki – A Sacred Mountain of Aotearoa

1 Comment / Aotearoa-New Zealand, North Island, Taranaki Region /

Rising proudly above the landscape, Mt Taranaki is one of the most striking landmarks in Aotearoa. Its perfect volcanic cone often draws comparisons to Mount Fuji in Japan, but here it holds a story and spirit entirely its own. The maunga dominates the region, visible from nearly every direction and has long been both a

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Best Beaches in the Taranaki Region – Surf, Sand & Coastal Vibes

Aotearoa-New Zealand, North Island, Taranaki Region /

The Taranaki region is blessed with a rugged and dramatic coastline, home to some of the most striking beaches in Aotearoa. Known for their black volcanic sand, these west coast beaches can often be wild and rough, shaped by powerful Tasman swells. While this means swimmers should always be cautious, it also makes them some

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Best Things to Do in the Taranaki Region – Adventure, Art & Coastal Beauty

Aotearoa-New Zealand, North Island, Taranaki Region /

The Taranaki region is a place of dramatic beauty, shaped by the perfect volcanic cone of Taranaki Maunga at its centre and the endless Tasman Sea stretching to the horizon. It’s a region that blends adventure and creativity, where rugged mountain trails meet coastal walkways and towns burst with art, gardens and local culture. From

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Exploring the 5 Towns of the Wairarapa – Heritage, Wine & Coastlines

Aotearoa-New Zealand, North Island, Wairarapa /

The Wairarapa is more than wild coastlines and famous vineyards. It is also a region of charming towns, each with its own story, character and pace of life. From heritage main streets to quirky fishing villages, every town offers something different. Because of this variety, travellers who take the time to explore slowly are well

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Best Hiking and Biking Trails in the Wairarapa – Scenic Rides & Country Walks

Aotearoa-New Zealand, North Island, Wairarapa /

The Wairarapa isn’t just about wine and coastlines — it’s also home to some of the best hiking and biking trails in the lower North Island. With wild coastal climbs, peaceful river tracks and rugged alpine routes, the region offers trails for all styles of adventure. The Best Hiking and Biking Trails in the Wairarapa

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Exploring Wineries in the Wairarapa – Vineyards, Views & Local Flavours

Aotearoa-New Zealand, North Island, Wairarapa /

The Wairarapa may feel laidback and rural, but it produces some of the finest wines in Aotearoa – New Zealand. The small village of Martinborough is at the centre of it all, with vineyards spread out like a patchwork quilt around the town square. Here, cellar doors sit only minutes apart, making it one of

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Best Camping Spots in the Wairarapa – Riversides, Forests & Coastal Views

Aotearoa-New Zealand, North Island, Wairarapa /

The Wairarapa is a region that rewards slow travel, especially by campervan. We tend to use Masterton as our base when we need to come back into town to shop, empty waste and fill up on water. Most of the coastal towns run on tank water, so staying for long stretches can be a challenge.

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Best Things to Do in the Wairarapa – Wine, Coastlines & Country Charm

Aotearoa-New Zealand, North Island, Wairarapa /

The Wairarapa is a large region tucked away on the lower east coast of Aotearoa – New Zealand’s North Island. Life here feels laidback and relaxed, yet there’s always something new to explore. From rolling vineyards to rugged coastlines, the Wairarapa offers a mix of culture, history and natural beauty. Its coastal towns can be

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Best Camping in the Bay of Plenty – Beachfront Escapes & Coastal Views

Aotearoa-New Zealand, Bay of Plenty, North Island /

The Best Camping in the Bay of Plenty combines golden beaches, forest hideaways, and relaxed freedom camping spots. This coastline stretches from Waihi Beach to Ōpōtiki, offering a huge variety of places to stay. Although Rotorua is officially part of the Bay of Plenty, it connects more naturally with the Waikato region so we have

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