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New Zealand is the most inviting, fun, exiting and diverse country in which to take a vacation. To explore the opportunities for a visitor to both islands is such a vast topic, therefore I have narrowed my recommendations to the North Island. There are so many opportunities on offer from viewing the amazing scenery, to experiencing the geological formations of this volcanic island. The people of New Zealand and the Maori culture really make for a warm and friendly experience. Well known for its adventure and sporting opportunities, everyone from the novice to experience outside enthusiast will take home some unforgettable memories of time spent there. The following are recommendations from my 10 day driving tour of the North Island, made a few years ago.

Auckland.
Although Auckland is a warm and welcoming city, with so much to do, if you only have limited time I would recommend the following; drive up Mount Eden or One Tree hill, for an unusual view of the city, have breakfast up the sky tower, take a walk around the harbor and marvel and some of the huge sailing vessels. With slightly longer, try a trip to one of the islands located just across the water from the city; Great Barrier, Tiritiri Matangi, Kawau, Rangitoto, Motutapu and Waiheke islands offer something for everyone from bird watching, geological exploration of the volcanic islands to amazing beaches. Piha beach on the coast North West of Auckland about an hour's drive is a fantastic wide expanse of almost black sand with rolling surf, a great location to spend a few hours. Try www.aucklandnz.com for as much information as you can handle on this location.

Bay of Islands
Approximately 230kilometers north of Auckland you will find the Bay of Islands. You could easily spend your whole holiday here, with diving, sailing trips, fishing, golf, and numerous cultural attractions on offer. No holiday here is complete without a sailing trip out around the bay to see the numerous islands and hear about their history. Options range from dolphin viewing aboard a catamaran skippered by one of New Zealand's leading lady racers, to a more sedate trip following the old cargo route around the island on Fullers' Cream trip. Located in Paihia is the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the location where New Zealand's founding document was signed. Cultural tours and shows are available to explain the relevance of this document in New Zealand's history. Paihia is the busting tourist center of the islands, however it has

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