As a specialist New Zealand tour operator, we do advise our travellers to limit the travelling they do on their journeys through the country.
It’s often forgotten that New Zealand is the same size as the UK, and, in trying to see all the highlights within a limited timescale, it would be very easy to spend hours at the steering wheel.
Most of our suggested itineraries involve an average of three hours’ travel between locations, with one or two journeys of longer duration. We often schedule two- or three-night stays to avoid too much packing and unpacking.
However, some of our travellers have indicated they would like to stay in certain places longer, so that there is not only time to see the sights and enjoy activities but also time to relax and appreciate the local scene.
So, the staff at Silver Fern have devised some new extended-stay itineraries that could form the basis of a slower exploration of the country. Please note that these will invariably include an internal flight to cover the distances between centres within a short time span.
Extended Stay Accommodation
And it is no surprise which locations are the preferred places in New Zealand for an extended stay. We highlight these below and describe their appeal.
“Stay-a-While” Extended Stay Itineraries
Bay of Islands
The subtropical North is a favourite area for longer-term stays, not only because of the warmer climate but also because there is so much to see and do on land and on water.
The waters of the Pacific Ocean lap the stony beaches of Paihia, and from the quayside, half-day and full-day trips depart to the islands to see dolphins and the many seabirds that follow the boats. A popular trip is Fullers Hole in the Rock cruise or, for the more nautically adept, there are sailing boat trips which offer participants the chance to try their hand at pulling up the main sail.
Further north the small settlement of Keri Keri also holds historical importance as the outpost of the British missionaries first sent to convert the natives to Christianity in the 1830’s.
A day tour to Ninety Mile Beach not only gives travellers an extended view of the scenery of the Far North but also the possibility of dune surfing on its wide sands.
View the full itinerary here:
SUB-TROPICAL NORTH TO ALPINE SOUTH
The Coromandel Peninsula
The Coromandel Peninsula has a coastline of bays, coves and beaches to explore while you enjoy a relaxed stay in the area. Dotted around the coastline are small settlements and townships that are popular summer holiday locations for New Zealanders living in the larger conurbations of Auckland and Hamilton. Coromandel, Tairau and Whitianga are the main destinations and the beaches on the eastern coast are a big draw.
Accommodations generally comprise bed and breakfasts, apartments and motels. Baches are also a popular choice.
Many travellers head to Hot Water Beach to dig their own hole in the sand and luxuriate in the hot spring waters. Cathedral Cove is also a good spot for beach activity and for walks along the shoreline. Unfortunately, a recent land slip has meant access by land is not possible, but boats and kayaks are readily available to explore on the water.
If you are travelling from the South Island to the North, then the Coromandel is an ideal place for some rest and relaxation after a journey around the country and before preparing for travel home from Auckland.
We feature a four-night stay in our new “Stay A While “itinerary:
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE SOUTH MAORI HERITAGE AND THE BEACHES OF THE NORTH
Abel Tasman National Park
This is another beautiful coastline that runs atop the South Island.
Relaxing for a few days in the park is a great idea before picking up your itinerary to venture further South. If this suggestion is of interest, you can see the full itinerary here:
MAORI HERITAGE COASTAL WONDERS AND THE ALPINE SOUTH
Wanaka
It may not have the beaches of the Coromandel or Abel Tasman, but Wanaka is situated in the most stunning alpine environment of lakes and mountains, where travellers can enjoy gentle walks, boat trips and endless swimming possibilities. In recent years, this small township has grown at a rate to rival the nearby adventure “resort” of Queenstown. However, Wanaka still retains a relaxed vibe with less drama.
Within the town are a variety of boutique shops, galleries and workshops that display distinctive hand-crafted products, while upmarket cafes and restaurants are sure to find favour with travellers who seek the best in New Zealand cuisine.
Wanaka has long been a favourite location for Silver Fern travellers and as such it features prominently on our tailor made itineraries and in our new Stay-a-While trips.
If these suggestions get you wishing you could experience the wonders New Zealand for yourself, or you’d like to know more about our new “Stay-a-While” tours, get in touch with us and book your 2025 or 2026 New Zealand holiday today!