Hit the road and make the most of winter with these top 10 things to do around the North Island.
Enjoy the winter scenery from above as you ride on Whakapapa's Sky Waka gondola up the slopes of Mt Ruapehu to New Zealand’s highest cafe, perched 2020 metres above sea level on Knoll Ridge Chalet(opens in new window). Marvel at the alpine views, watch the skiers and snowboarders do their thing and warm up to a coffee or hot chocolate in the architecturally award-winning building.
Make the most of the winter season and stay in one of the chateaus in the North Island. Found right at the doorstep of Tongariro National Park is the cosy alpine lodge, Powderhorn Chateau(opens in new window). This boutique hotel offers a range of accommodation such as an apartment, suites and chalets suited for all types of visitors.
Beneath the rolling hills of Waitomo, around two hours from Auckland, lies a network of limestone caverns with stunning formations and glowworm-lit caves enjoyed on a guided boat tour(opens in new window). If you’re into an adventure try the unique black water rafting experience on the underground rivers.
Try out the local beers at Parrotdog(opens in new window) on one of their brewery tours and tastings. Visit the many unique bars such as one of Wellington's best-kept secret - Crumpet(opens in new window) or the aptly named lounge bar, The Library(opens in new window) - filled with books and craft cocktails. If you're after some local beer, check out Heyday(opens in new window) - where craft beer meets crafty design.
Popular events such as Beervana(opens in new window) and Wellington on a Plate(opens in new window) get the crowd going during the colder months. Celebrate all things beer at Beervana, filled with interactive themed bars, good food and innovative collaborations. Revel in all things food at Wellington on a Plate, a culinary extravaganza that takes over the city, offering special menus and hundreds of pop-ups.
Many popular hiking tracks in the North Island are ideal in winter. The majority of tracks are free from snow all year round, so you can still explore the great outdoors. In Auckland, temperatures are mild and sunny days are common. It’s the perfect time of year to hike up Rangitoto – chances are you’ll have the dormant volcano all to yourself!
Explore the Taranaki Falls loop track in the Ruapehu region. Start near the Whakapapa Information Centre and follow the crystal clear river to the impressive Taranaki Falls as you enjoy fabulous volcanic views along the way.
Note that the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is covered in snow during winter and is dangerous to attempt unless you are experienced and well-equipped. If you want to tackle this track in winter, the best option is to hire a mountaineering guide(opens in new window).
Enjoy a relaxing cruise to the Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings or stroll on one of the many lakeside walks around Lake Taupō. Feel the thundering roar of 220,000 litres of water squeezing its way through a slim ravine at Huka Falls. Witness the falls from a vantage point on the footbridge or on a thrilling jet boat ride(opens in new window).
