Off The Beaten Track - Central Plateau
If you have the time then getting off the beaten track and discovering New Zealand's less visited areas can be rewarding.
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The Central Plateau of the North Island incorporates Lake Taupo, a water filled volcanic crater, and Tongariro National Park with its dominating mountain peaks, some of which feature in Maori legends of the island’s creation.
Based in the scenic town of Lake Taupo, this journey will provide the opportunity to explore the region’s Maori history. Begin with a visit to the Lake Taupo Museum and Art Gallery, which houses an elaborately-carved Maori Meeting House, traditional Maori carvings and weaving as well as a collection of historical artefacts and photographs from around the Taupo region. In the afternoon, take a scenic cruise on Lake Taupo. A highlight of this journey is the inspiring Maori Rock Carvings, which are only accessible by boat.
The following day, enjoy a guided nature-culture walk in the Tongariro National Park. The walk traipses through untouched natural forests, led by Maori guides. Learn about the Maori connections to the area, how they utilised the resources of the forest and some of the stories, myths and legends of the local area. There is also an opportunity to learn a traditional Maori handicraft.
Cox & Kings Travel offers tailor-made holidays to New Zealand.
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Cox & Kings Travel
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Cox & Kings, the world's longest established travel company, organises tailor-made holidays and escorted group tours to New Zealand.
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