Summer is always a great excuse to explore and get away for a weekend. Maybe you’ve just recently retired and found more free time on your hands to do some travelling, or maybe you’ve just moved to a beautiful lifestyle village in Albany and want to explore the area! The North Island has got you covered! From mountains to golden beaches, there are so many spots in the North Island to explore during the summer. Below, we round up the best summer weekend getaways in North Island.
Travel at Red over summer
If you’re worried about travel restrictions during the pandemic, here’s what you need to know. You can travel around New Zealand at Red, excepting temporary restrictions. If you live in Auckland, you can still travel into and out of the city for any reason, including leisure. The only thing you need to remember is when leaving Auckland, you must be fully vaccinated and have your My Vaccine Pass with you. Alternatively, you can carry evidence of a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before crossing the boundary.
Now, let’s get into it!
Rotorua’s Geothermal Wonders
Rotorua is a famous location in the North Island that boasts many stunning locations, including several geothermal attractions. Rotorua is located a mere 3-hour drive away from Auckland, making it highly accessible for those in the city.
The Wai-O-Tapu is a must-see geothermal spot for its world-famous Champagne Pools. This hot spring was formed 900 years ago from a hydrothermal eruption, making it an astounding sight to behold!
Waitomo Caves
Experience an otherworldly place when you visit Waitomo caves! This maze of limestone caves is lined with stalagmites, stalactites, and glow-worms, which will enchant you at first sight! You can explore this beautiful area via boat tours or on a guided walk.
Cape Reinga’s Pacific Ocean Views
Set out on a road trip and drive along Northland’s Twin Coast Highway, where you can treat yourself to endless scenic views of pristine beaches. The road trip brings you to Cape Reinga, a majestic location that is said to be where spirits leap off across the waters where two oceans meet. A great story to tell your grandkids when you come back!
Waikato’s Famous Hobbiton
Visit the famous Middle Earth in Waikato’s countryside. Live out a scene from The Lord of the Rings as you stroll around the famous movie set where you can see Hobbit holes, the Party Tree, and the Green Dragon Inn.
Poor Knights Islands Beautiful Marine Reserve
Feast your eyes on awe-inspiring caves, arches, cliffs, and tunnels. The marine reserve is also an excellent diving or snorkelling location if you’re up to see how diverse the marine life out there is up close. On the other hand, you can also enjoy a calming boat trip to the islands where you may spot dolphins or whales!
Taupō’s Majestic Waterfalls
The Taupō region is abundant with majestic waterfalls, and Huka Falls are famous for a reason! A thunderous waterfall where a quarter of a million litres of water bursts through a natural gorge. You can see Huka Falls from a safe viewing platform, or you can take the more thrilling route and catch a jet boat ride up the river, close to the base of the falls.
Have an epic summer getaway in the North Island!
Take that summer weekend getaway and spice your independent senior living up with some great travel stories. At Fairview Village, we make sure that you have a comfortable environment to come back to after your summer travel! Relax, unwind, and we’ll take care of the rest. Discover why our residents choose the Fairview lifestyle and contact us today!
