Yes, it might only be a teeny bit of the size, but Splore Festival captures the creative, anything-goes energy of Glastonbury that I love so much. Plus it’s set on a beach in a beautiful regional park – what more could you ask for?
Kawau Island – a Jewel in the Hauraki Gulf
Kawau Island calls itself a jewel in the Hauraki Gulf and it’s not hard to see why. Its turquoise waters lap against golden beaches, and inland there’s beautiful native bush to explore. It’s a fun day-trip from Auckland, or a haven for boaties passing by!
Birthday Fun at Bridge Pa Wine Festival
New Zealand is blessed with many beautiful wine areas throughout the country. Marlborough and Central Otago are particularly well-known, but one of my favourite wine regions, particularly for boutique producers, is the Hawke’s Bay – particularly the Bridge Pa triangle. Celebrating their many great vineyards, the Bridge Pa Wine Festival takes place every January, busing eager punters around the triangle. You’ll find not just delicious wines, but also great street food, lawn games and music, making it the ideal day out.
Coromandel + Mt Maunganui – An Epic NZ Road-Trip
New Zealand’s Coromandel Peninsula is one of its most stunning areas, with gorgeous white sand beaches encircling native bush. It’s very popular with Kiwis, particularly in the summer, but a little less prominent on the tourist radar. After New Years in the Bay of Islands, we headed down to Mount Maunganui and Coromandel for a few days of sun and relaxation – here’s our favourite spots! And don’t forget to check out my top tips for exploring New Zealand at the end of the post.