Taranaki is the North Island’s ‘nose’, a peninsula that juts out into the wild Tasman Sea. From its broad, flat plain, used mostly for dairy farming, the majestic volcanic cone of Mt. Taranaki rises to over 2500m.
The university town of Palmerston North sits at a major crossroads, linking the North Island’s major roads in all directions including west to Taranaki. The town is centred around ‘The Square’, a seven hectare green space at its heart and all roads into the city lead to here. The ‘Westside’ of city is best known for its arts and culture, while Manawatu Sports Stadium heads the list of the numerous sporting venues and the New Zealand Rugby Museum.
No two explorers are the same, so you have the freedom to craft your experience exactly how you want.
Trip ideas
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Spectacular North and South
New Zealand Self DriveExplore New Zealand in depth on this well-paced self-drive allowing you to immerse yourself in the country's plentiful wonders.
From £4666
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East Cape Explorer
New Zealand Self DriveDiscover one of New Zealand's seldom explored regions on this 14-day self-drive holiday following the Pacific Coast Highway around the East Cape of North Island.
From £2444 Excluding Flights
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North Island Classic
New Zealand Self DriveThis two-week self-drive holiday takes in the highlights of the North Island.
From £1966 Excluding Flights
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Wildlife Encounters
New Zealand Self DriveTrack down New Zealand's endemic wildlife on this self drive nature tour.
From £5037 Excluding Flights
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Whale and Dolphin Explorer
New Zealand Self DriveImmerse yourself in a wealth of wildlife and nature on this fantastic self drive.
From £3979 Excluding Flights
Trip experiences
Other New Zealand regions
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Auckland
The most cosmopolitan of New Zealand’s cities, one fifth of Auckland’s one million inhabitants are of Polynesian descent.
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Christchurch and Canterbury
From the lofty Southern Alps to the broad Canterbury Plains, the peaceful spa resort of Hanmer Springs to the bustle of the country’s most English of cities, Christchurch, this stunning region is one of contrast and diversity with experiences to match.
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Dunedin and Southland
With an abundance of natural wonders that includes some of the best wildlife viewing in the country, the South Island’s southern tip can also lay claim to the most interesting architecture in the elegant and stately city of Dunedin.
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Nelson and Marlborough
The gateway to South Island, this is a region of sunshine, wine, arts and crafts and stunning nature encompassing an area of superlative natural beauty. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts or just those wanting a relaxing escape, this is a region not to be missed.
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Northland
Stretching 350km north from Auckland, Northland is New Zealand’s only sub-tropical region and with its above average sunshine record and glorious beaches, it is popular with locals as well as visitors.
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Pacific Coast
The Pacific coast region includes both the most travelled and least visited parts of New Zealand incorporating the Coromandel, the Bay of Plenty, Eastland and Hawke’s Bay.
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Rotorua and Central Plateau
In the geographic heart of New Zealand’s North Island, the immensely varied landscapes of this acclaimed region take in fertile farmlands, snow-capped volcanoes, steaming geothermal fields and crystal-clear trout-filled lakes.
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Southern Lakes
This picturesque southern corner of New Zealand has achieved almost legendary status for its superb scenery and range of adrenaline-charged activities, including skiing.
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Wellington and Wairarapa
Wellington is New Zealand’s vibrant capital city and is renowned for its arts and culture, proximity to nature and varied culinary experiences, perfectly complemented by the world class wines of the Wairarapa vineyards.
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West Coast
The West Coast of New Zealand's South Island is wild and rugged, yet immensely beautiful and a popular location for visitors.
