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Explore Napier and Hawke’s Bay, known for Art Deco architecture, scenic wineries, and coastal views. Discover top attractions like Te Mata Peak, Marine Parade, and Cape Kidnappers for a memorable visit TRAVEL TIPS & HIGHLIGHTS ------- Best Time To Travel ------- Spring (Sept - Nov): Enjoy mild weather, blooming gardens, and outdoor events. Summer (Dec - Feb): Ideal for exploring beaches, wineries, and Art Deco charm. ------- How to Get Here ------- Fly directly to Hawke’s Bay Airport near Napier. Alternatively, fly to Wellington or Auckland and drive to Napier. ------- Key Highlights ------- Art Deco Tours: Explore Napier’s iconic 1930s architecture on foot or by guided tour. Cape Kidnappers: Visit the gannet colony and enjoy stunning coastal views. Wine Tasting: Hawke’s Bay’s wineries offer top-notch wines and scenic cellar doors. Te Mata Peak: Hike or drive to the summit for panoramic views of the region. Marine Parade: Stroll this waterfront area with gardens, art, and the National Aquarium. Book Activities, Tours, Accommodation & Transport Below WELCOME TO Napier & Hawke ' s Bay Ahuriri THE BEST OF NAPIER & HAWKE'S BAY Napier and Hawke’s Bay offer a vibrant blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Known as the Art Deco capital of New Zealand, Napier’s unique 1930s architecture attracts visitors from around the world. Beyond its historic streets, the region boasts world-class wineries, scenic bike trails, and stunning coastal views from Te Mata Peak. With family-friendly spots like Marine Parade and wildlife encounters at Cape Kidnappers, Hawke’s Bay has something for everyone to enjoy. Foraging & Cocktail Masterclass LEARN MORE Learn how to forage for delicious herbs and fruits in Napier and create them into some delectable cocktails. Napier: Art Deco Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour LEARN MORE Discover the beautiful town of Napier on a self-guided walking tour. Explore the charming streets of the town and marvel at the stunning architecture, statues, and iconic art-deco structures. Cape Coast Winery Ride with STANDARD Bike (16 km, 6 wineries) LEARN MORE A very scenic cycle featuring some of the regions favourite wineries, our most popular tour! Napier: Cape Coast Winery Tour on Pedal or E-Bikes LEARN MORE Explore Napier on a self-guided scenic bike or e-bike ride to some of the region's favourite wineries. Follow the Tuki Tuki River trails along the stunning Cape Kidnappers coastline. Napier: Masterclass: FORAGING & COCKTAIL MASTERCLASS LEARN MORE Learn how to forage for delicious herbs and fruits in Napier and create them into some delectable cocktails. Great Cape Escape LEARN MORE Leaving from our shop, you will cycle along the beautiful coast and through the wetlands, before arriving out to the coastal wineries. Reward yourself with wine tasting and lunch at one of the three cellar doors. Napier: Cape Kidnappers Gannet, Nature & Sightseeing Tour LEARN MORE Embark on a wildlife encounter to the world's largest mainland gannet colony perched above majestic cliffs. Be within feet of these magical birds. Napier: Wine and Gin Tasting Tour with Lunch LEARN MORE Enjoy a gourmet luncheon and wine tasting at Mission Estate Restaurant. Visit a local distillery in Napier for a gin tasting and end your tour with wine, cheese, and biscuits at the Askerne Estate. Napier: Afternoon Wine Gin Tasting Tour LEARN MORE Discover two wineries and a gin distillery on an afternoon wine and gin tasting tour in Napier. Pair your tastings with a cheeseboard of New Zealand cheeses and take home a souvenir glass. Hawkes Bay Private Geothermal Hot Pools Hike LEARN MORE Embark on a two-day adventure from Napier to Mangatainoka Springs, where Hawke's Bay's beauty unfolds. Explore rugged landscapes, soak in natural hot springs and spend the night under the stars. Sip, Cycle, Soak package with Ocean Spa (self-guided on e-bikes) LEARN MORE Kick-start your morning with a delectable breakfast, including a refreshing mocktail, at The Bach Café. After fuelling up, Tākaro Trails will have your e-bikes ready and waiting for you to embark on a scenic e-bike ride to explore the many Hawke’s Bay Trails and indulge in a visit to one of our top wineries for a tasting. Napier: Shore Excursion Cycle Winery Tour - Half Day LEARN MORE Explore the Hawke's Bay wine region on a self-guided bike tour from Napier. Visit up to 4 wineries, such as Mission Estate, Church Road, Crab Farm, and Urban Winery. An Electric Bike Oh Yeah! LEARN MORE We have a large fleet of stylish Sinch Jaunt e-bikes. Comfortable step-through style, pedal assisted with the latest in Shimano electronic system, they have a wide range of 60-150km on a charge depending on the level of assistance. Equipped with 9 gears, disc brakes, suspension fork and comfy gel seat they are made for easy and safe riding. Napier: Art Deco Center, Te Mata Peak, Wine & Cheese Tasting LEARN MORE Discover the scenic highlights of Art-Deco Napier on a sightseeing tour. Admire the orchards, vineyards, and views from Te Mata Peak before tasting the cheese and wine of the region. Navigate Seaside Hotel With a stay at Navigate Seaside Hotel in Napier (Ahuriri), you'll be within a 10-minute walk of The Urban Winery and National Tobacco Company Building. Select your dates Beach Front Motel Napier With a stay at Beach Front Motel Napier in Napier (Napier South), you'll be steps from Marine Parade and Napier Beach. Select your dates The Crown Hotel Napier A stay at The Crown Hotel Napier places you in the heart of Napier, within a 10-minute walk of The Urban Winery and National Tobacco Company Building. Select your dates 415 Marine Parade With a stay at 415 Marine Parade in Napier (Napier South), you'll be steps from Marine Parade and Napier Beach. Select your dates Bella Vista Motel Napier A great central location with 18 superior units, close to shops, restaurants and the renowned Marine Parade with its majestic Norfolk pines. Select your dates The Nautilus Napier A stay at The Nautilus Napier places you in the heart of Napier, steps from Marine Parade and Napier Beach. This upscale aparthotel is 0.4 mi (0.6 km) from Opossum World and 0.4 mi (0.6 km) from National Aquarium of New Zealand. Select your dates Art Deco Masonic Hotel A stay at Art Deco Masonic Hotel places you in the heart of Napier, steps from Art Deco Trust and Marine Parade. Select your dates Quest Napier Serviced Apartment A stay at Quest Napier Serviced Apartment places you in the heart of Napier, within a 5-minute walk of Municipal Theatre and Opossum World. Select your dates Quality Inn Napier A stay at Quality Inn Napier places you in the heart of Napier, steps from Marine Parade and 3 minutes by foot from Napier Beach. Select your dates TIPS & GUIDES Top Mountain Bike Tracks & Destinations in New Zealand Napier’s Art Deco Architectural Gems

Explore the New Zealand Great Walks, a premier collection of hiking trails that feature the most stunning landscapes New Zealand has to offer. From majestic mountain peaks to serene coastal waters, each Great Walk provides a unique, well-maintained path through diverse environments. Perfect for adventurers of all skill levels, these trails promise breathtaking views and memorable experiences. Discover your next adventure with our detailed guides, tips, and booking information. Milford Track Day Walk Water Transport - From Lake Te Anau BOOK NOW EXPLORE GREAT WALKS NEW ZEALAND A premier collection of hiking trails that feature the most stunning landscapes New Zealand has to offer. From majestic mountain peaks to serene coastal waters, each New Zealand Great Walk provides a unique, well-maintained path through diverse environments. Perfect for adventurers of all skill levels, these trails promise breathtaking views and memorable experiences. Discover your next adventure with our detailed guides, tips, and booking information. Lake Waikaremoana A serene journey along the edges of Lake Waikaremoana, known as the 'sea of rippling waters'. Wander through ancient podocarp forests, explore secluded beaches, and capture the panoramic beauty from the heights of Panekire Bluff. Duration: 3–4 days Distance: 46 km Location: Te Urewera, East North Island Access: Start at Onepoto and end at Hopuruahine with water taxi access from Aniwaniwa. Read more about this walk > What to pack for this walk > Tongariro Northern Circuit A world of active volcanic terrains, ancient glacial valleys, dense beech forests, and vibrant alpine meadows, complemented by the stunning emerald lakes near Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngauruhoe. Duration: 3–4 days Distance: 43 km Location: Tongariro National Park, Central North Island Access: Circular route beginning and ending in Whakapapa Village. Read more about this walk > What to pack for this walk > Heaphy Track Traverse diverse landscapes from expansive tussock downs to dense forests and coastal West Coast, with seasonal mountain biking opportunities. Duration: 2–6 days Distance: 78.4 km Location: Kahurangi National Park, North-West South Island Access: Entry and exit from either Brown Hut in Golden Bay or Kohaihai on the West Coast. Read more about this walk > What to pack for this walk > Paparoa Track Travel through the enchanting Paparoa Range, experiencing its lush rainforests and limestone landscapes, with options for hiking or biking this newly established trail. Duration: 2–3 days Distance: 55 km Location: Paparoa Range, West Coast of the South Island Access: Begins at Smoke-Ho car park near Blackball and finishes at Pororari River car park for walkers or Waikori Road for bikers. Read more about this walk > What to pack for this walk > Milford Track Experience the grandeur of Fiordland's towering mountains, vast canyons, and powerful waterfalls, walking through pristine environments to the iconic Milford Sound. Duration: 4 days Distance: 53.5 km Location: Fiordland National Park, South-West South Island Access: Starts at the head of Lake Te Anau, finishing at Milford Sound with available transport services. Read more about this walk > What to pack for this walk > Routeburn Track Journey across the awe-inspiring Southern Alps, enjoying forests and alpine landscapes with vast valley views beneath towering peaks. Duration: 2–4 days Distance: 32 km Location: Mount Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks, South-West South Island Access: One-way hike from Routeburn Shelter near Queenstown to the Divide Shelter near Te Anau. Read more about this walk > What to pack for this walk > Kepler Track Enjoy the scenic lakesides of Te Anau and Manapouri, ascend through beech forests to alpine tussock lands, and enjoy expansive views from Mt Luxmore. Duration: 3–4 days Distance: 60 km Location: Fiordland National Park, South-West South Island Access: Circular route starting and ending near Te Anau. Read more about this walk > What to pack for this walk > Rakiura Track Take an adventure to the tranquil and untouched natural beauty of Stewart Island/Rakiura, where serene forests meet pristine beaches, offering a peaceful getaway. Duration: 3 days Distance: 32 km Location: Stewart Island/Rakiura Access: Loop walk starting and ending near Halfmoon Bay, accessible from Invercargill or Bluff. Read more about this walk > What to pack for this walk > OPTIONS Milford Track Day Walk Water Transport - From Lake Te Anau A scenic 1 hour boat journey between Te Anau Downs and Glade Wharf will have you on the Milford Track for a spectacular day walk experience. DISCOUNT CODE:PLAN10 From $125.00 BOOK NOW Routeburn Track Transport Package From Queenstown (Starting Divide Return) Experience one of the world’s most scenic roads as we take you from Queenstown to the Routeburn Track. From $160.00 BOOK NOW Queenstown to Te Anau (One Way) Bus Transfer Transfer from Queenstown Central or Queenstown Frankton to Te Anau. From $62.00 BOOK NOW Milford Sound to Te Anau (One Way) Bus Transfer Transfer from Milford Sound Information Centre to Te Anau. From $67.00 BOOK NOW Taupo Return Shuttle Transport to the start of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing from Taupo in the morning. Map and information sheet and provided. Then we pick you up from the end of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing back to Taupo in the afternoon. From $130.00 BOOK NOW Kepler Track Day Walks - Water Taxi Transport from Te Anau The Kepler Track begins on the shore of Lake Te Anau and offers some of the best day walking in Fiordland. Catch the Kepler Water Taxi across Lake Te Anau, and you’ll be on the world-famous track in less than 15 minutes ready to tackle your day walk of choice. DISCOUNT CODE:PLAN10 From $30.00 BOOK NOW Te Anau to Te Anau Downs (One Way) Bus Transfer Transfer from Te Anau to Te Anau Downs. From $33.00 BOOK NOW Milford Sound to Queenstown (One Way) Bus Transfer Transfer from Milford Sound Information Centre to Queenstown Central. From $107.00 BOOK NOW Tongariro Holiday Park Return Shuttle Return transport available from Tongariro Holiday Park to and from the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. From $60.00 BOOK NOW Queenstown to Te Anau Downs (One Way) Bus Transfer Transfer from Queenstown Central or Queenstown Frankton to Te Anau Downs. From $87.00 BOOK NOW Milford Sound to Te Anau Downs (One Way) Bus Transfer Transfer from Milford Sound Information Centre to Te Anau Downs From $65.00 BOOK NOW Te Anau to Queenstown (One Way) Bus Transfer Transfer from Te Anau to Queenstown. From $62.00 BOOK NOW TIPS & GUIDES The Magnificent Routeburn Track - Queenstown Download the AllTrails app Nestled in the heart of New Zealand's majestic Southern Alps, the Routeburn Track is a world-renowned hiking... Top Walks Around Queenstown Queenstown, known as the adventure capital of New Zealand known for skiing, great walks and hikes. The Wonders of Ben Lomond Track: Queenstown’s Premier Hiking Experience If you’re visiting Queenstown and looking for a hike that offers breathtaking views, a good challenge, and some of the most stunning... Discover Moke Lake: Queenstown’s Hidden Gem Moke Lake is a serene escape that feels like stepping into another world. This picturesque spot, surrounded by rolling hills and rugged...

Rotorua, New Zealand's geothermal paradise. Renowned for its bubbling mud pools, stunning geysers, and natural hot springs, Rotorua offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. Immerse yourself in Māori culture with authentic performances and traditional hangi feasts. Explore the lush forests and pristine lakes, perfect for hiking, biking, and water activities. Visit the famous Whakarewarewa Thermal Village and the Redwoods Treewalk for unforgettable experiences. Rotorua WELCOME TO Te Rotorua-nui-a-Kahumatamomoe TRAVEL TIPS & HIGHLIGHTS ------- Best Time To Travel ------- Spring (Sept - Nov) Summer (Dec - Feb) ------- How to Get Here ------- Fly direct to Rotorua Airport. Alternatively, fly to Auckland or Wellington, then rent a car for a scenic drive to Rotorua. ------- Key Highlights ------- Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland: Famous for colorful geothermal pools and the Lady Knox Geyser. Skyline Rotorua & Luge: Enjoy panoramic views from the gondola and ride the world’s longest luge track. Te Pā Tū: Experience authentic Māori culture, including traditional food, dance, and stories. White Water Rafting: Tackle the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall on the Kaituna River. Volcanic Hills Winery: Sip on wines with a view of Lake Rotorua. Book Activities, Tours, Accommodation & Transport Below ROTORUA - THE ADVENTURE CAPITAL OF THE NORTH ISLAND Just a 3-hour drive from Auckland, Rotorua is a captivating destination known for its geothermal wonders, Maori culture, and outdoor adventures. This vibrant city offers iconic attractions like the bubbling mud pools and geysers at Te Puia, the stunning geothermal terraces of Wai-O-Tapu, and the relaxing hot springs at Polynesian Spa. Adventure seekers can enjoy mountain biking in the Redwoods Forest, ziplining through native forests, and exploring the beautiful lakes. The best time to visit is from September to May, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. With a rich cultural heritage showcased through traditional Maori performances, local art galleries, and museums, Rotorua offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences that will leave every traveler enchanted. LET'S YOU THROUGH IN & AROUND ROTORUA Tours Sightseeing Adrenalin & Adventure Arts & Culture Family Fun Walks & Hikes Accommodation Transport History Rotorua Highlights Small Group Tour including Wai-O-Tapu from Auckland BOOK NOW TIPS & GUIDES Can I Visit Filming Locations from 'The Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit'? Rotorua: Adventure, Relaxation & Culture for the Whole Family

TSS Earnslaw Image Source: Expedia.com Step back in time with a scenic voyage on the TSS Earnslaw, affectionately known as the "Lady of the Lake." This iconic century-old steamship offers a unique glimpse into Queenstown's rich heritage, combined with breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. Whether you're a solo adventurer, a couple seeking a romantic outing, or a family looking for fun, the TSS Earnslaw delivers an unforgettable experience for everyone. A Voyage Through History Launched in 1912, the TSS Earnslaw is one of the last remaining coal-fired passenger steamships operating in the southern hemisphere. As you step onto the vintage vessel, you're transported to a bygone era, with its polished brass fittings, gleaming wooden interiors, and the rhythmic chugging of the original steam engine. During the 90-minute round trip to Walter Peak High Country Farm, you can explore the ship's open bridge, watch the stokers at work in the engine room, or simply relax on the deck soaking up the panoramic views. Destination: Walter Peak High Country Farm Arriving at Walter Peak, you're greeted by the charm of rural New Zealand life. This picturesque farm offers an engaging experience for families and those interested in agriculture and animal husbandry. You can participate in sheep shearing demonstrations, get up close with farmyard animals, and even try your hand at wool spinning. It's a fantastic way to introduce children to farm life, ensuring a fun-filled and educational outing. Gastronomic Delights Amidst Nature No visit to Walter Peak is complete without indulging in the renowned gourmet BBQ lunch or dinner. Savor delicious, locally-sourced meats and produce, all grilled to perfection. The meal is complemented by a selection of sumptuous salads and desserts, rounding out a truly Kiwi dining experience. With options to suit all dietary preferences, it’s a feast for the senses with stunning lake views as your backdrop. BOOK - Queenstown Lake Cruise and Walter Peak Farm Tour BOOK - Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ & Lake Whakatipu Cruise BOOK - TSS Earnslaw Cruise of Lake Whakatipu Planning Your Trip Booking Your Journey : The TSS Earnslaw operates several departures daily, but it's advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons. You can easily purchase tickets online or at the Queenstown waterfront ticket office. Boarding Location : The adventure begins at the Steamer Wharf on Lake Wakatipu, centrally located and easily accessible from anywhere in Queenstown. Make sure to arrive at least 20 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth boarding process. Travel Tips : Even in the warmer months, Lake Wakatipu can be breezy, so carrying a jacket is recommended. Don't forget your camera – the views en route to Walter Peak are absolutely stunning and definitely Instagram-worthy! Visit our Queenstown page for more tours and activities!

Exploring the Vineyards of Queenstown, Arrowtown, Wānaka, and Bannockburn: A Wine Lover's Paradise Central Otago wine region is a wine lover's paradise with stunning mountain views and extensive vineyards. Enjoy a glass of perfectly matched Pinot Noir or a refreshing white wine, each reflecting the unique qualities of this wine-rich area. Book Queenstown's Original Wine Tour QUEENSTOWN'S ORIGINAL WINE TOUR, SINCE 1992 Experience the true flavour of our local pinot noir and other wine varietals at three premium vineyards, each hosting our small group tours for wine tastings. Enjoy a stroll tour through the vines and into New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave. This fun, relaxing tour travels just a short distance from Queenstown and gives you the opportunity to explore, get yourself a lunch, or an extra glass of your favourite wine at your leisure, and we'll have you back in town by 5pm. WINE TOUR INCLUDES Courtesy pick up & drop off at selected accommodation or central Queenstown Hosted wine tastings at 3 wineries 12+ wine tastings Underground wine cave tour (subject to availability) Time available for a winery lunch, which you choose from the a la carte menu (at own expense) BOOK NOW > Experience Notable Wineries in Gibbston, Bannockburn, and Cromwell Chard Farm impresses with its dramatic entrance and stunning river views. Enjoy a tasting and feel the connection to the landscape. Wet Jacket Wines , located in a historic woolshed, combines history of the region with modern winemaking, offering a unique tasting experience. Peregrine Wines features architecturally impressive settings, enhancing the wine tasting experience with the beauty of the building and the land. Kinross Winery in Gibbston offers cozy cottage accommodations and wine tastings, making it a great place for a full day visit. Mora Wines blends wine tasting with artisan culinary experiences, perfect for gourmet food lovers. Mt Rosa Wines offers a laid-back, rustic tasting room experience in the Gibbston Valley, known for its dry climate and stony soils that enhance the grape flavors. Brennan Wines features a boutique tasting room with personalized experiences and stunning views over the vineyards. Coal Pit Vineyard focuses on educating visitors about sustainable viticulture practices during their intimate tasting sessions. Stop by The Winery in Arrowtown The Winery in Arrowtown, known as one of Zealand’s largest tasting rooms, is a must-visit. With over 1,300 wines, including selections from boutique vineyards, it’s the perfect place to taste and discover new favorites. Whether you choose a taste, half, or full glass, you're sure to find a wine you love. Wānaka ’s Vibrant Wine Scene Wānaka 's landscape significantly influences its wines. The vineyards, nestled among mountains and near Lake Wakatipu, thrive in a microclimate perfect for viticulture. This area is celebrated for its superb Pinot Noir and aromatic whites. Explore Further: Bannockburn and Beyond Head to the Bannockburn region, about 60 kilometers from Queenstown. Famous for its robust Pinot Noir, the climate and soil here are ideal for vine growth. Wineries like Terra Sancta and Felton Road Wines are committed to quality and environmental stewardship, producing some of the most respected wines in the region. Additional Esteemed Wineries Two Paddocks, owned by actor Sam Neill, offers exclusive organic Pinot Noir tastings by appointment. Domain Road Vineyard is known for its welcoming atmosphere and educational tastings, perfect for learning more about wine. Gate 20 Two Vineyard provides personalized tours and tastings in a small, intimate setting. Desert Heart offers tastings set against stunning vistas, making each sip a memorable part of your journey. Te Kano Estate features modern architecture and a range of tasting options, including food pairings. Mt Difficulty Wines is celebrated for its panoramic views and comprehensive tasting room and one of the best vineyards in Queenstown. Special Attractions Visit the Stoaker Room near Cromwell for a unique blend of local cuisine and wine, or take a trip to Walter Peak to explore more of Queenstown's food scene. If time permits, delve deeper into the award-winning offerings and the rich history of the Central Otago wine region. This comprehensive tour not only offers a glimpse into the art of winemaking but also provides a sensory journey through one of New Zealand's most picturesque landscapes, making it an essential experience for any wine enthusiast. PlanGo  is here to help you experience the best of New Zealand. View and book online!

Nestled just an hour’s drive north of Auckland, Matakana offers an idyllic escape from the bustling city life. Known for its charming village atmosphere, breathtaking beaches, vibrant arts scene, and exquisite local produce, Matakana has something for everyone. Let’s dive into what makes this picturesque destination a must-visit. The Journey from Auckland The scenic drive from Auckland to Matakana is a treat in itself, taking you through lush countryside and coastal landscapes. In just around 60 minutes, you’ll find yourself in the heart of Matakana, ready to explore all its wonders. Culinary Delights https://www.matakanacoast.co.nz Matakana is a haven for food lovers. The village boasts an array of eateries that serve everything from gourmet burgers to fine dining cuisine. Local cafes and restaurants emphasize fresh, locally sourced ingredients, providing a true farm-to-table experience. Whether you're craving a hearty breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or a sumptuous dinner, Matakana’s culinary scene is sure to delight your taste buds. Recommended spots include The Matakana Village Pub, Rothko Restaurant, and the Matakana Market Kitchen. Matakana Cinemas For movie enthusiasts, the Matakana Cinemas offer a unique experience. Located in the heart of the village, this boutique cinema complex features three screens and showcases a mix of mainstream, independent, and art-house films. The cozy, intimate setting makes it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration. The cinema also hosts special events and film festivals, adding to the cultural richness of Matakana. Matakana Farmer’s Market https://www.matakanavillage.co.nz/market One of the highlights of any visit to Matakana is the iconic Farmer’s Market. Held every Saturday morning from 8 am to 1 pm, the market is a bustling hub of activity, filled with stalls selling fresh produce, artisanal foods, handmade crafts, and more. It's the perfect place to sample local delicacies, pick up fresh ingredients, and soak in the vibrant community atmosphere. Don’t miss out on the freshly baked pastries, organic vegetables, and locally made cheeses. Omaha Beach A short 10-minute drive from Matakana lies Omaha Beach, a pristine stretch of white sand and clear blue waters. It’s a paradise for beachgoers, offering excellent swimming, surfing, and sunbathing opportunities. The beach is also a great spot for a family picnic or a leisurely stroll along the shore. The best time to visit Omaha Beach is during the summer months, from December to February, when the weather is warm and the sea is inviting. Point Wells Just around the corner from Matakana, Point Wells is a serene coastal village known for its calm waters and relaxed vibe. Ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, Point Wells is the perfect place to enjoy some quiet time surrounded by nature. It's a 5-minute drive from Matakana and is best visited in the late spring to early autumn months (November to April) for the most pleasant weather. Snells Beach A 15-minute drive south of Matakana, Snells Beach offers another beautiful coastal retreat. With safe swimming areas, picnic spots, and playgrounds, it’s a family-friendly destination. The beach provides stunning views of Kawau Island and is a great place for a relaxed day out. Exploring the Arts Matakana is rich in artistic culture. The region is dotted with art galleries and studios showcasing works by local artists. One of the standout attractions is the Sculptureum , located just a few minutes’ drive from Matakana village. This sculpture museum features over 400 works of art, spread across indoor galleries and outdoor gardens. It’s a place where art and nature merge beautifully, offering an inspiring and educational experience. Another must-visit is Brick Bay Wines & Sculpture Trail , located 5 minutes from Matakana. This unique attraction combines wine tasting with a walk through an outdoor sculpture trail. The trail winds through native bush and farmland, featuring contemporary sculptures by New Zealand artists. Wine and Local Produce No visit to Matakana would be complete without indulging in its renowned wines. The region is home to several boutique wineries that produce a variety of award-winning wines. Some of the notable vineyards include Ascension Wine Estate , Matakana Estate , and Heron's Flight . Wine tasting tours are a popular activity, offering visitors the chance to sample delicious wines while enjoying the picturesque vineyard views. Alongside the wine, Matakana’s local produce is celebrated for its quality and flavor. From fresh fruits and vegetables to artisanal cheeses and preserves, the area’s bounty is sure to impress. Best Times to Visit The best time to visit Matakana is during the Summer months, from December to February, when the weather is warm and perfect for outdoor activities. Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May) are also great times to visit, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Travel Tips Rent a car for flexibility and convenience. Buses are available from Auckland, but a car is recommended. Driving out of Auckland along State Highway 1 (SH1) gets busy, so leave early when you depart and return so you are not stuck in traffic. Book accommodation in advance, especially for weekends and holidays. Consider local bed and breakfasts, lodges, or vacation rentals. Best time to visit: Summer (December to February), Spring (September to November), and Autumn (March to May). Pack sun protection, hats, and light clothing for summer; layers and a light jacket for cooler months. Visit popular spots early to avoid crowds. Make reservations for popular restaurants on weekends. Bring swimwear, towels, and a picnic for beach visits. Wear comfortable walking shoes for trails and sculpture gardens. Plan visits to multiple wineries in one day. Check the local events calendar for festivals and special events. Visit the Matakana Farmer’s Market for local crafts, foods, and produce. Clean up after yourself and follow local waste disposal guidelines. Be mindful of local wildlife and avoid disturbing them. PlanGo  is here to help you experience the best of New Zealand. View and book online!