Explore North Island
Nature
Mudbrick Winery, Waiheke Island
Just a 35-minute ferry ride away from downtown Auckland, Waiheke Island is the perfect place to visit for wine lovers.
With grapes carefully sourced from different regions, and detailed harvesting methods, Mudbrick Winery stands out through the character of their wines. Enjoy a sensory and romantic dining experience at their Flagship Mudbrick restaurant sitting over the ridge overlooking the glistening waves of the Hauraki Gulf. Explore their bespoke wines while dining in, during wine tastings led by their cellar masters, or feel free to purchase your own.
When you're in Auckland, definitely check out this 'Island of Wine'!
Pōhutu Geyser, Rotorua
Rotorua is also home to the Southern Hemisphere's largest geyser, Pōhutu Geyser, which naturally erupts more than 15 times a day. As the day comes to an end and night befalls, Rotorua's geothermal valley, Te Whakarewarewa awakens and brings on a sensory spectacle for its visitors to experience. Through Te Puia's guided tour, sip hot chocolate underneath the stars, while being surrounded by geothermal steam and sound.
Huka Falls, Wairakei, Taupō
The Waikato River is New Zealand's longest river which flows north from Lake Taupō between banks 100m apart, before entering the shallow ravine of hard volcanic rocks, generating the powerful and resounding Huka Falls we see and hear today.
Over the 11m high waterfall, witness the magnificent natural hydro power surpassing 220,000 litres of water per second as it lunges into the turbulent pool below.
Get up close with a jet boat ride or river cruise, or simply cross the foot bridge located right at the top of the falls to witness the astounding beauty and magnitude of the waters – Huka Falls is definitely not a sight to miss.
Dine & Wine
Ahi, Auckland
Right in the heart of downtown Auckland lies Ahi, a restaurant that promises a dining experience true to New Zealand's authentic flavours. With the selection of the finest ingredients scoured all over the country and the best of local wines & spirits, Ahi aims to tell an authentic food story of Aotearoa.
Their menu features snacks such as wallaby tartare, wild-shot red deer, Provenance lamb saddle & heart, among many others.
The Oyster Inn, Waiheke Island
An award-winning bistro by the beach, you're in for a treat with the freshest oysters delivered daily and shucked to order, harvested directly from Waiheke Island's Te Matuku farm, on top of the daily market fish dishes, crisp salads, fish and chips and more.
You may also opt for a stay in their boutique hotel rooms just a short stroll to Oneroa Beach, to further explore Waiheke Island.
Check out other note-worthy restaurants like Honey Bones, Annabel's, and Lilian.
Culture
Te Puia, Rotorua
Throughout your experience in Te Puia, explore mud pools along the valley and take a look at intricate Māori-made artworks and sculptures.
Here, visit New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, where expert carvers and weavers demonstrate their skills. After an exciting cultural performance, Te Aronui a Rua, walk away with an unforgettable experience of the rich indigenous Māori culture.
Te Pā Tū, Rotorua
Beginning with Ahi Taitai, fire ceremony, you will then be served Kai hotorai, seasonal delicacies as canapes, followed by the sacred shared celebration of stories, pastimes and connection within the Tawa forest. Kapahaka will then be performed, before you enjoy a three-course feast featuring Māori fusion dishes developed and curated by acclaimed Māori chefs.
During the months of May – October, celebrate the Winter Matariki with Tū Te Ihi. During the months of November – April, experience the unique Summer Harvest Celebration with Tū Te Rā.
Aotearoa awaits
Go on your own unique journey in New Zealand and experience the grand majesty of culture and nature for yourself. Along the way, fuel up with the vibrant food scene boasting fresh ingredients sourced locally.