Month: April 2018

Every year, thousands of intrepid travellers pack their bags and lace-up their all-terrain shoes to explore the hidden pockets and reaches of this green-as-far-as-the-eye-can-see paradise. The best bit? No snakes, creepies or crawlies to ruin your adventure mood. The North Island is a quiet achiever – a glorious stretch of startling natural attractions, beaches, coastlines, National Parks and so much more. How much more? Find out with these four tried and tested day walks, and witness the wild, wonderful side of New Zealand.

1. Rangitoto Summit

Duration: 2 hours
Difficulty Rating: Easy (expect a medium section or two, depending on your fitness level).
Starting Pointing: Rangitoto Wharf
Hey, Volcano chasers, do we have an easy summit climb for you. Popping out at the Hauraki Golf, this conical vista draws the eye and the camera lens from the moment you meet it, feet first. The trek to the top begins on the wharf, ascending through lava fields, outcrops and lush forest to a proud peak, standing a respectable 259m above sea level. Conquer this local icon anytime throughout the day, as ferries leave the Auckland Viaduct often, like clock-work.

2. Putangirua Pinnacles

Duration: 3 hours
Difficulty Rating: Easy (be ready for a couple of tricky sections along the path).
Starting Pointing: Aorangi Forest Park
Rocky, raw and extremely photogenic, the Putangirua Pinnacles are people-pleasing stalagmites, piercing the air at around ten metres tall. Famous for their appearance in the Lord of the Rings Trilogy, you’ll be spoiled with views of Palliser Bay and Lake Onoke, making this leisurely walk one to remember. Don’t forget to take enough water – this bush stroll can be thirsty work.

3. Coromandel Coastal Walk

Duration: 7 hours
Difficulty Rating: The easier end of medium
Starting Pointing: Northern Coromandel Peninsula
Take a day-long meander along this tramping – the local word for trekking – jewel, as coastal forest gives way to wildlife sights, the Coromandel Pinnacles, Port Charles and Cuvier Island, just to name a few of the attractions that will prompt your finger to click the camera trigger. Don’t want it to end just yet? Would you rather take your time? Why not camp out at either Stony Bay or Fletcher Bay, and complete the return leg tomorrow?

4. Cape Brett Walkway, Northland

Duration: 8 hours one way
Difficulty Rating: Challenging – for experienced hikers only.
Starting Pointing: Rawhiti, Bay of Islands
Do you consider yourself to be a competent and confident hiker? The Cape Brett Walkway is your next challenge, threading the topmost territory of the Bay of Islands ever so neatly. Exhausting and rewarding, you’ll be tempted to stop often to take in the beauty of this iconic walk, before it concludes at a historic lighthouse (aka. The Department of Conservation Hut). Rest your legs overnight and make the return journey in the morning or book a boat ahead of time, and return to your hotel, ready to sink into a delicious dinner.

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Ready to go? Let us do the hard work for you. Contact Relaxing Journeys today and plan a North Island trip to remember.

Perched on the northern end of New Zealand’s South Island, Abel Tasman National Park has all the splendour of Milford Sound… without the crowds. A stone’s throw away from the cellar doors of the Marlborough wine region, this pint-sized national park – the smallest in New Zealand – packs more punch than you’d expect. From the granite formations off the rocky coast, to the natural marble obelisks, tumbling native forests and hidden pristine beaches, Abel Tasman National Park is an unrivalled paradise of possibilities.

The Abel Tasman Coastal Track

Pack your favourite pair of trainers or walking shoes and some good socks… you’re going to need them. This 3-5 day walk connects visitors with New Zealand’s natural wonder, traversing craggy headlands, exploring ancient forests and cooling off in the blue waters of one of the many beaches. Not hard enough, long enough or do you just need to see more? Why not join the Coastal and Inland tracks together and turn your 3-5 jaunt into a 8-10 day adventure? Either way, you’ll see and experience unforgettable moments, so pack a camera and a spare battery for the trip.

Sights to Savour Along the Way: Apple Tree Bay and the surrounding beech forest; Torrent Bay suspension Bridge; the wild and birdlife of Awaroa Estuary; and the rocky headland of Whariwharangi Bay.

Self-Guided Sea Kayaking

Leave the locals behind, say goodbye to crowds and drop into a world without distractions. Abel Tasman National Park by water is nothing short of magical, as gems like Marahau, Kaiteriteri and Golden Bay deliver beautiful, secluded adventures to even the most discerning traveller. Do things your way and hire out a kayak, paddling the calm waters of Abel Tasman’s sheltered coastline – the inlets and deserted beaches are endless. Bask in the sunshine as native fur seals, dolphins and frolicking seabirds put on a show, letting natural New Zealand fill you with a quiet kind of awe. Not ready for watery independence? We can hook you up with a tour operator to suit your tastes and skillset, ensuring nerves don’t get in the way of a good time.

Sights to Savour Along the Way: The protected waters of Tonga Island; the lovely Onetahuti Beach; glide past the seals of Shag Harbour; mazes of sea caves; secret reefs; and sheltered tidal lagoons. What you see is ultimately up to you!

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When was the last time you got away? See the world this year. Book a New Zealand self-drive tour with Relaxing Journeys today!