New Zealand has some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world with its magnificent snow-capped peaks, lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and beautiful wildlife. Whether it’s adventure or relaxation you’re after, there is something here for everyone. But where to first? We have five New Zealand getaways we think are a must. So go on, start planning, and let’s explore.
North Island
Papamoa Beach
Papamoa Beach is a beautiful and peaceful place within the Bay of Plenty. It has amazing scenery, some of the best surf on the island, plenty of adventure, and relaxation. Spend the day hiking or cycling along the trails, throw a line in to catch a fish or two, meet the friendly local dolphins or lay back and do absolutely nothing. You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining with something to suit everyone’s tastebuds. Check out our foodies’ guide to Papamoa Beach to find out the best food spots in town.
Getting there
Papamoa Beach is about a three-and-a-half-hour drive south of Auckland or just under a two-hour drive from Hamilton. Alternatively, you can fly into Tauranga Airport and drive about 20 minutes to Papamoa Beach.
Where to stay
Tasman Holiday Parks – Papamoa Beach for the perfect place to unwind after a day of adventure or relaxation. You can’t get any more beachfront than this friendly, laid-back holiday park. There is a range of accommodation available including campsites, caravan sites, cabins, units, and villas.
Waihi Beach
Set along a nine-kilometre stretch of a white sandy shore in the Western Bay of Plenty is Waihi Beach. This vibrant little coastal village boasts great surf breaks, fishing spots, hiking trails, shops, and dining options. Some things you must see are the Owharoa Falls, Karangahake Gorge, Goldfields Railway, and the Waihi Beach heritage trails to learn more about the history of this area.
Getting there
Waihi Beach is about a two-and-a-half-hour drive south-east of Auckland or a one-and-a-half-hour drive from Hamilton. Alternatively, you can fly into Tauranga Airport and drive an hour north to Waihi Beach.
Where to stay
Tasman Holiday Park – Beachaven is situated just 100 metres from the beach, putting you front and centre to all this laid-back coastal town has to offer. It’s a safe, friendly holiday park set on four acres of land where relaxation is the name of the game. We have a wide range of accommodation options including cabins, lodges, motel units and campsites to cater for all walks of life from families, couples to single travellers. Even the family dog can come along as this is a New Zealand pet friendly caravan park.
Another great place to stay is Tasman Holiday Parks – Waihi Beach situated on the north end of Waihi Beach. It’s the perfect spot to relax by the heated pool and spa or enjoy the warm, quiet space in the sauna. The kids will absolutely love the playground, jumping pillow, under 5’s family room, kids hang out room and hire items including buggies, bikes, boards and more. Get closer to nature with beachside camping or enjoy the creature comforts with motel units, self-contained units, or cabins. No matter who you are travelling with or what your budget is, there is something for everyone.
South Island
Te Anau
Over on New Zealand’s South Island you will find Te Anau, a picturesque town offering both adventure and relaxation. Explore the many walking tracks including Milford Track, Routeburn Track and the Kepler Track. You should also check out the Te Anau Glow Worm Caves and watch in awe as these limestone caves light up with thousands of spectacular glow worms. The main attraction here is the jaw-dropping natural wonder of Milford Sound. Travel in style to the eighth wonder of the world in a luxury Mercedes coach from Te Anau. It’s the ultimate way to see and experience its wonderous waterfalls, dark waters, and stunning surroundings.
Getting there
Te Anau is situated just a two-hour drive from Queenstown or three-and-a-half-hours drive from Dunedin.
Where to stay
Tasman Holiday Parks – Te Anau has a large range of accommodation options available for everyone’s needs and budgets. Camp out under the stars with powered and non-powered campsites, or enjoy the comfort of home with units, lodges, cabins, motel rooms, apartments and houses available. If relaxation is your thing, this five-star holiday park has hot tubs to soak in whilst looking out over the stunning Lake Te Anau. After your spa, jump in the Hobbiton inspired barrel sauna for the ultimate relaxation experience. Travelling with kids? They’ll love the jumping pillow, games room, playground, TV room bikes and go-karts to hire plus more.
Christchurch
Set against a backdrop of alps and ocean, you will find the South Island’s largest city, Christchurch. You will find plenty to see and do from spectacular scenery, adventurous sports and mouth-watering dining and wineries. The best way to explore the city is on board a beautifully restored Christchurch tram. The city itself is full of culture, art, and cutting-edge architecture. To escape the city, take a scenic drive through the country to the twin delights of Akaroa and Hanmer Springs. Make sure you stop at the thermal pools in Hanmer Springs where you can take a dip or glide down the many water slides. Finish off the day with a pit stop at a winery of your choice.
There are plenty of options to get amongst nature from hiking in Arthur’s Pass National Park, spotting fur seals, whales, or dolphins at Kaikōura or travelling through the Southern Alps on board the TranzApline Railway.
Getting there
Christchurch has an airport or it’s just under a six-hour drive north-east of Queenstown.
Where to Stay
Tasman Holiday Parks – Christchurch is only 15 minutes from Christchurch’s CBD and airport. The kids will love the pool, water slide, jumping pillow, and playground and the adults will love its proximity to local cafes, shops, markets and stunning natural surrounds. Accommodation options range from standard studios that sleep two to a four-bedroom house that sleeps 11. There’s powered and unpowered sites for camping or parking your caravan. There is an option here to suit everyone’s travel style and budget.
Put these New Zealand destinations on your travel list and book today.
