Located in the centre of New Zealand's North Island, the town of Taupo sits sublimely in the shadow of the snow-capped peaks of Tongariro National Park. Fittingly, this 40,000-person lakeside town has recently become one of New Zealand's most popular tourist destinations, as hikers, trout fishers, water sports enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies have started descending upon it.
Road trip New Zealand: 8 of the best routes
21.07.2023 - 08:17 / roughguides.com
New Zealand’s roads and trails cut through incredibly diverse landscapes: snow-capped peaks and watery fiords, fertile plains, subtropical forest, glacial lakes and rugged coastline can all be explored on four wheels. Here is a selection of our favourite road trips in New Zealand.
Officially called Te Oneroa-a-Tōhē, this seemingly endless stretch of beach from Ahipara to Scott Point in the far north of New Zealand is actually only 55 miles (88km).
Incredibly, it’s a designated public highway and alternative to SH-1 – though to traverse the sands you need a 4WD, a sense of adventure and some advance planning to avoid high tide. On one side is the crashing surf, and on the other, rolling dunes backed by green forest.
© MikeDrago.cz/Shutterstock
The Pacific Coast Highway hugs the awe-inspiring coastline of the North Island’s Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty, East Cape and Hawkes Bay.
Setting out from Auckland you can take it slow on a six-day tour and take your pick of picturesque coves and bays to explore. Ridiculously beautiful highlights include Cathedral Cove, Hot Water Beach, Ohope Beach and Ohiwa Harbour, Waipiro Bay and its three historical marae (Maori meeting grounds) and the beaches of Mahia Peninsula. Be aware that the East Cape in particular is winding and steep and can be a challenging drive.
Planning your dream trip? Don't miss our guide to the best things to do in New Zealand.
© Linda_K/Shutterstock
For One Drive to Rule Them All, head deep into the volcanic plateau of Central North Island where Peter Jackson found the perfect location to bring Mordor to the big screen. Most people come here to ski or tramp, but there are some incredible landscapes and lookouts to be seen from the highway: the long, straight Desert Road (SH-1) to the east of the park is a dry and bleak stretch with amazing views toward the trio of volcanoes.
For even more epic views of Mount Ngauruhoe (aka Mount Doom), loop round to the southeast of the park to Whakapapa Village (off SH-47) to access the skifield.
© N.Minton/Shutterstock
Open for the summer months only, Acheron Road bumps through the stunning scree-covered hillsides and open valleys and grasslands of New Zealand’s largest farm. Drivers who brave the 207km gravel road between Blenheim and Hanmer Springs experience all that comes with exploring remote high country.
There’s no mobile phone coverage, let alone any services, but there is a real sense of excitement and solitude.
© patjo/Shutterstock
continued below
The dramatic and scenic east–west road from Christchurch to Greymouth (SH-73) traverses the Canterbury Plains, Porters Pass and Arthur’s Pass National Park, cruising through laidback communities and panoramic lookouts along the way.
Taking it easy, the
The website maxtravelz.com is an aggregator of news from open sources. The source is indicated at the beginning and at the end of the announcement. You can send a complaint on the news if you find it unreliable.
Top Autors
Popular Topics
travelandleisure.com
06.08.2023 / 14:31
This New Zealand City Is Hiring Americans — and There Are 3,000 Jobs to Choose From
Calling all job hunters: the city of Wellington, New Zealand, is welcoming Americans to move and work in the county's capital — touting its great work/life balance.
insider.com
03.08.2023 / 19:01
I kept making the same money mistake every time I traveled abroad. Here's how to avoid it.
In the same drawer where I keep my travel adapters and portable charger, I have a foreign currency graveyard of sorts. A $5 bill from New Zealand. A £10 note from Scotland. Dozens of Canadian loonies and toonies.
lonelyplanet.com
28.07.2023 / 17:15
My mother has dementia – and a trip together helped me understand her condition
It’s no longer something to keep hidden.
forbes.com
27.07.2023 / 18:57
Air New Zealand’s New In-Flight Menu Challenges What It Means To Eat Local In The Air
Air New Zealand has this week announced a new in-flight menu that places emphasis on local flavors and ingredients that are unique to New Zealand. A Taste of Aotearoa is onboard Business Premier cabins now and will be available on all long-haul flights specifically out of New Zealand. The creative menu features local food producers and fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
smartertravel.com
27.07.2023 / 18:55
Win a 9-Night Trip for 2 to Iceland
Enter the Budget Travel “Iceland” sweepstakes by February 19, 2016, for a chance to win the grand prize: a trip for two to Iceland, including air, nine nights’ hotel, some meals, and local tours.
smartertravel.com
27.07.2023 / 18:45
Win a 7-Night Trip for 2 to New Zealand
Enter the Babich Wines “Trip to New Zealand” sweepstakes by August 31, 2016, for a chance to win the grand prize: a seven-night trip for two to New Zealand, including air to and within New Zealand; hotels in Auckland, Marlborough, and Queenstown; choice of activities; and a NZD$1,000 gift card.
smartertravel.com
27.07.2023 / 18:04
The Best (and Worst) Countries for Cheap Taxi Rides
With rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft taking over, you might be wondering where in the world it’s still possible to take a cheap taxi. Cabs aren’t dead, yet: These countries still heavily rely on them.
smartertravel.com
27.07.2023 / 17:57
Air New Zealand Will Offer Lie-Flat Economy Seats Next Year
Forget the free food and fancy drinks—the best thing about flying first class is the seats. Specifically, the ability to lie down, which makes a huge difference in comfort on a long-haul flight.
forbes.com
25.07.2023 / 21:09
United Adds More Routes; First U.S. Airline To Fly Directly To Manila
Some exciting new options are coming later this year for travelers who want to fly across the Pacific. United Airlines has announced the addition of several new routes to Asian destinations, including the Philippines. Additionally, United will be flying to 15 international locations in the Asia-Pacific region, which is more than the other U.S. airlines—combined.
matadornetwork.com
25.07.2023 / 10:41
Rere Rockslide in New Zealand Is an All Natural Water Park
Just 45 minutes outside of Gisborne, New Zealand, adventure seekers won’t find a water park full of chlorinated pools and plastic slides, but a totally natural feature of the landscape that offers families just as much fun: the Rere Rockslide.
matadornetwork.com
25.07.2023 / 10:41
The 6 Best Luxury Resorts in New Zealand
New Zealand offers an idyllic escape and is a perfect place to visit for those in search of a luxurious getaway. From its awe-inspiring mountains and captivating landscapes, to its majestic lakes and sprawling vineyards, New Zealand is a paradise for travelers. There are also plenty of opportunities to indulge in luxury experiences such as enjoying gourmet cuisine with locally sourced produce expertly paired with wines, staying at luxurious lodges that offer superior amenities such as floor-to-ceiling windows with unbeatable views, and exploring iconic art collections from the late American billionaire Julian Robertson.