The Duke of Marlborough pub in Russell, Bay of Islands.
The Duke of Marlborough pub in Russell, Bay of Islands.
Still not made plans for Labour Weekend? Jane Jurgens has some ideas for last-minute getaways to make the most of the first long weekend of the summer season.
Rotorua
If you're looking for an active long weekend away, there's no better choice than Rotorua. Chuck the bikes in the backand head to Whakarewarewa Forest and take on its diverse and unique mountain bike trails. If the water is more your thing, Rotorua is famous for its lakes and rivers - they're great for paddleboarding, fishing, white-water rafting, jetboating and many other watersports. After all that activity, a good soak will definitely be on the menu - this is the thermal wonderland of New Zealand after all. Try a lake-edge hot pool, drive out to Kerosene Creek, or pamper yourself at the Polynesian Spa.
Waiheke
It frequently makes the top 10 the best islands in the world lists published by glossy overseas travel magazines and Aucklanders are lucky to have Waiheke right on the doorstep. Hop on the ferry for a quick 35-minute ride and rediscover why it's so internationally adored - and what better way to spend a long weekend than on a winery trail? Just be sure to book in as soon as possible, as this will be a busy weekend for the island. Apart from the wine, there's plenty of other things to do, even though it may not be warm enough yet for a swim - rent an e-bike and cruise around the island in style, kayak around the bays or look for some bargains at the Ostend Market.
Kiwis love to holiday in the Bay of Islands for good reasons - there's plenty to see and do, as well as so much history. Learn more about the founding of our nation at the Waitangi Museum and walk around the Treaty Grounds. Keen mountain bikers will want to check out the nearby Waitangi Mountain Bike Park, which opened last year. Or rent a kayak and head up the Waitangi River to the spectacular Haruru Falls. Take the ferry over to Russell and take the circuit walk up to Flagstaff Hill for awesome views of the area. Keep an eye out for the endangered North Island weka, which has been successfully reintroduced to the area. There are also plenty of great places to eat and drink. Try The Duke of Marlborough in Russell, or Charlotte's Kitchen in Paihia. Kids will love designing their own pizza at Sauce, on Paihia's main drag.
Coromandel
The rugged Coromandel Peninsula is a stunning location for a long weekend road trip - there's so much natural beauty to take in. Bring a spade along for the ride and head to Hot Water Beach to dig your own natural hot pool - one of the area's most famous and unique experiences. Nature-lovers should also stop by the Karangahake Gorge at the base of the Coromandel Ranges. Follow the Historical Walkway, which traverses an old railway line and you'll pass through this incredible natural gorge and open out on to the Ohinemuri River. It's also part of the Hauraki Rail Trail, which is one of New Zealand's easiest cycleways - perfect for beginners.
The Hauraki Rail Trail - Karangahake.
Bargain hunters will be keen to check out the markets and eclectic local crafts for which the area is also renowned. On Saturday morning there's the Thames Market and the Whangamata Lions Craft & Farmers Market, or head up to Colville for the town's Mega Garage Sale, where there are sure to be some interesting objects on offer.
