Five weeks ago we flew into Auckland and embarked on a road trip across the North and South Islands of New Zealand. Our trip was quickly coming to an end so we were making our way back to where we started. But first we had a day to spend in Thames, located at the southwestern end of the Coromandel Peninsula.
Tag: North Island
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
A glowworm is not actually a worm, but rather the larvae of a fungus gnat. They are commonly found throughout New Zealand, often in caves, forests and other sheltered, damp areas. They produce blue-green bioluminescences and beautiful silk threads to help capture prey. Waitomo Glowworm Caves is known for its extensive cave system and is reputed to be one of the best places in the country to view glowworms and to see some really beautiful cave formations.
Hamilton Gardens
Nearly every city and town in New Zealand has a botanical garden. They are typically free to visit, are exceptionally well-maintained and feature a mix between native and exotic plants and flowers. The Hamilton Gardens charge an admission fee, but they are reputed to be the crown jewel of botanical gardens in the country. It consists of 18 enclosed gardens with themes and inspiration from around the world.
Hobbiton
Hobbiton is a charming little village in the Shire where Bilbo and Frodo lived in J.R.R Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. It was brought to real life as a movie set on a family-run sheep farm near Matamata, New Zealand. At first temporary, the movie set was later made permanent. With a variety of tours, visitors can experience the magic of Hobbiton, learn more about how the movie set was built and see many adorable little Hobbit holes.
Rotorua
Rotorua is located in the North Island of New Zealand and is known for its dramatic display of geothermal wonders. It boasts of having one of the most active geothermal fields in the world. There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the colourful landscape that is alive with steaming hot pools and bubbling mud pots.
Tongariro National Park
Tongariro National Park is the oldest national park in New Zealand. It’s an active volcanic area that is known for its desolate yet colourful terrain. It’s also famously featured in Lord of the Rings, serving as the backdrop of Mordor, with Mount Ngauruhoe, a stratovolcano with a near-perfect conical shape, as Mount Doom.
Wellington
Wellington is the capital of New Zealand and is the southernmost city on the North Island. It’s a vibrant city that is known for its film and special effects industries. It also contains a lively waterfront, museums, and other opportunities to enjoy the surrounding scenery.
Auckland
Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand. It’s known as the City of Sails as its harbours are often filled with thousands of sailboats and yachts. It’s located in the North Island and it's typically where most international travellers begin their journey to New Zealand. With several museums, parks and other points of interest it’s the perfect spot to spend a few days to acclimatize.