North Island New Zealand

30 Amazing Things to Do on the North Island of New Zealand

Julie New Zealand Leave a Comment

Cruise the Bay of Islands, go blackwater rafting, spend a day on beautiful Waiheke Island, go sandboarding, hike the spectacular Tongariro Alpine Crossing, see glowworms and kiwi birds, visit Hobbiton, and explore the geothermal areas around Rotorua and Taupo…these are all things to do on the North Island of New Zealand. There is something here for everyone. Sample some of …

Lake Taupo

20 Amazing Things to Do in Taupō (+ Map, Photos & Tips)

Julie New Zealand Leave a Comment

Sitting on the shores of the largest freshwater lake in New Zealand is the small town of Taupō. Cruising the lake, mountain biking, hiking, skydiving, and jet boat riding top the list of things to do in Taupō. There are also geothermal areas to explore, thermal pools and spas to visit, and waterfalls to photograph. So far, we have visited …

New Zealand Itinerary

New Zealand Itinerary: 3 Week North & South Island Road Trip

Julie Itinerary, New Zealand 41 Comments

New Zealand…this is the land of fiords, volcanoes, black sand beaches, glaciers, glowworms, hot springs, and breathtaking landscapes. On this New Zealand itinerary, you can road trip through one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Along the way, go hiking, test your wits and go bungy jumping, go wine tasting, and much, much more. It’s no secret that …

New Zealand with Kids

Ten Fun Things To Do with Kids on the North Island of New Zealand

Julie New Zealand 12 Comments

The second half of our New Zealand adventure took us through the North Island. Although the North Island lacks the stunning scenery that we were wowed by on the South Island, there are still heaps of fun activities for families. The North Island has it all…beaches, volcanoes, fabulous cities, famous movie sets, more adrenaline generating activities, and even caves filled …

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand’s Best Single Day Hike

Julie New Zealand 30 Comments

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is often labeled as the world’s greatest single day hike. Hearing this gave us high expectations for the day. Honestly, New Zealand has left us feeling a little disappointed with its hikes. The trails have been too manicured, too pristine, almost too safe, if that makes any sense. Don’t get me wrong, the scenery has been …