Listings

Big Bay Holiday Park is a small "Kiwi Bach" type family-owned and operated Holiday Park that is an ideal spot for families, couples, singles, backpackers and tourists. Big Bay Holiday Park is located at the tip of the Awhitu Peninsula, 40km from Waiuku and only 75 minutes from Auckland International Airport. Tent and power sites, kitchen cabins and self-contained units On-site camp store and takeaways (seasonal) Indoor/outdoor BBQ area with brazier FREE Wood-fired pizza oven for campers' use, safe swimming beach with white sand, beautiful beach walks and good fishing.

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Far from your average boat tour, this white-knuckle jet boat ride to Cathedral Cove will see you reach speeds of up to 80 km/h and that's when you're not experiencing high-speed drifting, heart-pumping power slides and full 360-degree spins. Departing from Whitianga Wharf, the activity hub of the Coromandel, you will be provided with a life jacket and a full safety briefing before you set off on the fastest journey to Cathedral Cove you will ever experience. But it's not all about speed and exhilaration.

Along the way, your professional jet boat driver will provide local history and witty commentary to keep you informed and entertained. For a unique jet boat ride that offers you a solid rush of adrenaline whilst providing spectacular views of the volcanic coastline, this is a thrill ride like no other. The Cathedral Cove jet boat ride is approximately 45 minutes and is exclusively limited to 10 guests per ride. Tours are available from October to April only.

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Round up the family and head to one of the region's superb beaches! Great choices include Back Beach, Centennial Drive, East End Beach, Nobs Line, Fitzroy Beach, Beach St, Ngamotu Beach, Ocean View Parade, Oakura Beach, Jans Terrace, Oakura. East End, Fitzroy and Oakura are the only beaches in New Zealand to be awarded the Blue Flag eco-label for their environmental, education and safety status.

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Climb to the summit of this 468 m peak for views on clear day from the Inland Kaikoura Range in the south to Mt Taranaki in the north-west - it's a good option for older children. 3-5 hr return. You'll think you've sprouted wings when you reach the top of the 468 metre high hill rising to the west of  Porirua City. From this lofty perch on a clear day you can view many other high points -  from the Inland Kaikoura Range in the south to Mt Taranaki in the north-west.

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Discover the predator-free Motuara Island on a half day cruise with Beachcomber Cruises from Picton. Located just over an hour's boat ride from Picton, Motuara Bird Sanctuary is a bird watcher's paradise nestled within the beautiful Queen Charlotte Sound in Marlborough Sounds. The Motuara Island Bird Watchers Cruise includes your return boat transfers with Beachcomber Cruises Picton, as well as one-hour of free time to explore the island.

Embark on a scenic cruise of Marlborough Sounds, known for its picturesque bays, secluded beaches, and abundant marine life. As you sail with Beachcomber Cruises from Picton, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, seals and penguins that often grace these waters with their presence.

The highlight of this cruise is a one-hour stopover at Motuara Island, a haven for native bird species. Step ashore and explore the Motuara Bird Sanctuary, home to rare and endangered birds such as the South Island Saddleback, King Shag and Bellbird. Immerse yourself in the symphony of bird calls as you wander through the lush forest trails, taking in the sights and sounds of these remarkable creatures in their natural habitat.

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At the very top of the North Island of New Zealand, there is an oasis of unrivalled beauty – Cape Reinga (Te Rerenga Wairua in Māori). This amazingly scenic area is a must-see for those who want to experience the wonder of Māori tradition and culture, as well as for those who just want a great, fun-filled day.

Setting off from Paihia, your first stop takes you in to the gorgeous Puketi Kauri Forest. The ancient, 2,000 year-old giant kauri trees stand majestic against the forest backdrop.

The climb up to the iconic Cape Reinga Lighthouse allows you to view the tremendously powerful waves below you, as the Pacific Ocean and Tasman Sea collide. Enjoy your lunch while gazing out at Taputaputa Bay before entertaining yourself with some cricket, rugby, Frisbee or just enjoy relaxing after your meal. Heading along Te Paki Stream, you encounter the mammoth sand dunes that the area is popular for; and what are sand dunes good for? Sand boarding of course! The effort of walking up the huge sand dunes is well rewarded by the fast, fun-filled journey back down on your provided board. Simply awesome!

Driving along the almost untouched 90-mile beach makes you feel as though you are exploring a deserted tropical island!  As the sun starts to fade, you can enjoy a world-famous meal of fish and chips overlooking the sparkling water at Mangonui.

Child rates for 5-14 year olds.  Under 5s are free of charge.

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The Rivers is Gisborne’s “local”, with the true Irish flavour.  Family friendly, well priced menu with generous portions and kids' menu with lots of great options.

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Stewart Island from the water is spectacular, and your cruise around Paterson Inlet will give you the best vantage point to see the amazing scenery of hidden coves and pristine beaches. With full commentary, you will learn about the fascinating early history of the area, including information about the local Māori population, European settlement and the whaling that took place here. The skipper and nature guide will answer any questions you may have, allowing you to develop a thorough understanding of this amazing part of the world.

During your cruise, be sure to keep an eye out for some of the local wildlife, including fur seals, penguins, dolphins and mollymawks, as well as a variety of other bird and sea life.

Afterwards, you will disembark at Ulva Island for a 45 minute, specialist-led, guided nature walk around this amazing wildlife sanctuary.

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The Royal Albatross Colony at Taiaroa Head, on the tip of the Otago Peninsula, New Zealand, is the only mainland breeding colony for any albatross species found in the southern hemisphere. The first Taiaroa-reared albatross chick flew in 1938 and this now protected nature reserve has grown into an established colony with a population of around 140 birds. Visitors to the Royal Albatross Centre can view the interpretative wildlife displays, learn of the historical use of the area and experience the famous Unique Taiaroa guided tours. Lots of interactive exhibits for the kids, toy box on-site, cafe, toilets, babychange facilities and family-friendly staff.

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Experience the thrill of flying over some of New Zealand’s most spectacular terrain with a scenic flight over the World Heritage Site of Tongariro National Park. This amazing Volcanic Park is so precious, that it was the second area in the world (after Yellowstone in America) to be declared a National Park.

Tongariro Crossing - 15 minutes flying time
As you soar around Mt Tongariro's volcanic craters, you will see the renowned Tongariro Alpine Crossing, the perfect cone of Mt Ngauruhoe (‘Mt Doom’ in the Lord of the Rings), the stunning Chateau Tongariro Resort and gorgeous alpine lakes.

Northern Circuit - 25 minutes flying time
The Northern Circuit allows you to view an extended version of the Tongariro Crossing flight.

The Volcanic Explorer - 35 minutes flying time
This flight is Mountain Air’s most requested flight. Experience the majestic views of all three of Tongariro Park’s volcanoes from 10,000 feet. This flight also includes views of the active crater lake of Mt Ruapehu, as well as Lord of the Rings filming sites.

Child rates for 3-12 year olds.  Under 3s are FREE.

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